DEO+ on STX #17
12 November 2009
UTO in Gathering
Growing up I recall the big-push for the UTO-in-gathering of the “Blue Boxes and Blue envelopes.” My Mom had a can-kitty-savings-spot for loose change and “left-over” grocery money. She saved for UTO. The Bishop of Alaska, historically received two UTO grants that paid for the Diocesan airplane, named appropriately, “The Blue Box.” When serving in Mobile, Alabama I observed UTO was not just “a woman’s thing,” but became a family event. At St. Luke’s, the Rector, Father Coleman Inge, once served in Alaska under Bishop William Gordon, taught the importance of the UTO as a source for mission. Though traditionally UTO is the in-gathering for the “Women of the Church” personal offering, the money really comes from the family earnings! This is a lesson in the missionary Diocese of the Virgin Islands. El Iglesia de San Francisco (the Hispanic congregation) has received a UTO grant to purchase a Church Van. The roof on the parish hall of Saint Peter’s was paid for from a UTO grant. It is important to see the UTO dollars at work on the local level. Blue envelopes have come in abundantly here at St. Peter’s! PTL.
More wind screen NAMES from autos, taxi, and trucks
Cohiba [also name of local bar/restaurant in former Gas Station], Street King,
Coocorache, Smile For Me Now, Delicious Diva, Laugh Now Cry Later, RTTINT’L, Remember The Times, Look What I’ve Got, Things Change, Reef Shark, Monte Christo, Who U Rollin With, The Silent Two, Joy Ride, Creep Up, Charger, Lest Friend, By She I’m Me, Fr. Fried, Know Thy Self
The Bare Foot Preacher
The Manager of the Pickled Greek Restaurant NEVER wears shoes! He is very Greek. I am not sure his credentials, but he does weddings on the beach. One of the local “ministers,” he officiates for “destination weddings”; the bare foot preacher blows a conch shell and “blesses” the union. Most of these weddings are beach side; many of the couples are bare foot in the sand-surf. The Pickled Greek is actually a fine spot to eat with excellent Greek cuisine. Ozo shots limber one up or down.
New ADVENT Brass Wreath with liquid candles
Our NEW Advent Brass Wreath has arrived! The five candles are the traditional colors: purple, pink and large white Christ candle. All are the liquid burning wax.
No drip. Happy Altar guild!
Attended Funeral at All Saints Cathedral on STT
On Friday, October 23rd, I flew over to St. Thomas for the funeral Mass of the spouse of the Senior Warden of All Saint Cathedral. We had become friends thru my consultation with the Vestry of the Cathedral. The Interim Dean invited me to vest and participate in the liturgy. The Cathedral was packed with folks. The music was very meaningful; a great sermon preached by a Priest from Maryland, the Brother of the deceased. Following the service I enjoyed some quality time of dialog with Bishop Gumbs. My Return flight on the Sea Plane was on time. It was a fine day for extended Diocesan ministry and presence.
HAM Radio Brunch on St. Johns @ The Donkey Dinner
The first Saturday each month, Ham Radio operators gather on Saint Croix and Saint Johns for breakfast-brunch-lunch. On STX we gather at the East End Bar and Grill; on STJ the place of meeting is The Donkey Dinner. On Saturday, I flew over to STJ and surprised the guys and gals I had been speaking with each morning during the seven months here using the 2-meter Ham radio frequency on the Island-weather-net; of the 15 Hams I talk with each morning, I had previously met only ONE! It was a fun surprise for us all. It was an expensive LUNCH and travel on the Sea Plane and Ferry; but worth the time, money and effort. These are my DAILY non-religious-prayer-partners. We meet/talk at 6:40am daily. It’s a fun group. They are highly educated, techno-radio-experts. These women and men are classic Amateur Radio “HAMS.”
Police road blocks
Periodically the local police set up “road-blocks’ usually after dark to check for seat belts violations and out-of-date inspection stickers; they are also checking for DWI violations and non-licensed drivers. On Saint Croix, I know friends who have maintained their Home State Drivers License, even though the rule-law is to obtain the local D/L after 90 days of residence. For most of us on “temporary duty assignments,” keep our State-side D/L’s as we are coming or going every 90 days in one direction or another.
Local Fruits and Veggies
Football size AVOCADOS! Fist size STAR FRUIT; Pint size DRAGON FRUIT; tiny golf ball size limes; SEA GRAPE “cherries”; small local BABANNAS & BREAD FRUIT. All these are brought to us at Church by parishioners who share their
home grown fruit with us. We enjoy lots of guacamole, fruit salads and fresh fruit on our cereals.
New private “Home” Communion set
St. Peter’s has not had a presentable “Home Communion” kit to deliver the Blessed Sacrament to sick and shut-ins; what was located back in the dusty cabinet of the sacristy has been unacceptable and was not dignified! Three conditions previously existed: 1) Either, the Holy Communion was NOT regularly taken out to the sick and shut-ins, 2) The clergy had their own “nice” set for Home Communion; or 3) NO-one seemed to care about the appearance of the Home Communion set! Upon consultation with the Altar guild and the coordinator of home visits we have ordered a light weight private Holy Communion home kit. Simple sturdy canvas purse/bag, small pottery chalice and patten; plastic bread box, the small wine bottle; lines and pocket for liturgy papers. Direct from Steam Boat springs, Colorado.
Church Directory
When I arrived at Saint Peters an early discovery was there was No List of people; nor a printed Directory of membership. I had no information as to “who” the folks were, where they lived or telephone numbers. We have collected the information beginning with the list of contributors of record from the treasurer and form information solicited in Sunday service attendance. We finally have a printed directory of membership. Of course, similar to the telephone directory, the day published it’s “out of date.” It is a constant revision of home phones, cell numbers, business contacts and e-mail addresses. Here on STX ones physical address usually is NOT the Mailing address. Most folks have a Post Office Box
Number, if not at a sub-station or branch Post Office at a neighborhood postal site. More administrative progress made!
Singsperation
Think many choirs singing their best numbers. It’s an afternoon, usually ecumenical, with choirs or groups that sing and sometimes the assembled church groups sing along. The host Church is packed with choirs and relatives of the singers. At St. Peter’s, the Senior choir, Youth choir, ECW, ECM, ECY, and Mixed choir will all sing when we host “a Singsperation.” Our NEXT Singsperation will be on Nov. 29th, sponsored by the ECM, inviting Men’s Choirs and Male Singing Groups to perform. Another form similar but more thematic is the Harvest Cantata. Holy Cross Episcopal Church has invited all the deanery choirs and groups to present a song/poem or biblical reading on the Sunday Next before Thanksgiving (Nov. 15th).
QUADRILLE Dancing
The Saint Croix Heritage Dancers have been organized for over 28 years, preserving the multi-cultural history of Island life and its people. The St. Croix Heritage Dancers have preformed the French and German Quadrille since 1981.
A large number of St. Croix Heritage Dancers are members of St. Peter’s; the Cultural Dancers practice at St. Peter’s parish Hall. Quadrille dancing is similar to Square Dancing but more directly related to the French and German origins. The dances have multi-cultural and multi-Island diversity. Colorful madras shirts, skirts, dresses, and head pieces reflect the Caribbean themes. The dances are very formal, lively and “quick-step.” Verbal commands direct the dance patterns.
Church records now up to date
Thanks to a dedicated vestry person, the church records are now in order and brought up-to-date. The Church Register had been neglected for years. The Index was non-existent. Another Interim Task checked off and basic Church administration accomplished! We shall see IF the discipline continues. At least I will leave with records in order.
Where do you guys live anyway/anywhere?
See: Reefvillas.org
Here one can view our Condo complex and get an ariel view; check out the pool!
It’s our condo association web-site.
Come See Us Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
DEO+ on STX #16
28 October 2009
(Saint Simon and Saint Jude)
Babs returned today!
She flew Delta from Atlanta to San Juan. I took the Cape Air commuter flight to Puerto Rico and surprised Babs in the terminal! We then flew back together to Saint Croix on the Cape Air small plane. It was, of course, a Great re-union. Not cheap, but a wonderful surprise. The “surprise” was good for both of us!
I missed my 45th Class reunion at Sewanee!
Since Graduating in 1964 from The University of the South, I have been involved
with Sewanee, serving as Trustee three times and 25th class reunion Chairman. The great distance and money for a long weekend “on the mountain,” was not possible during this Interim ministry on Saint Croix. My heart was at Sewanee on October 9-11but my full attention was at Saint Peter’s, Christiansted! Maybe I will make the
50th Class reunion!
Atlantic Standard Time does NOT Change
When “the mainland” changes time this week; the Virgin Islands remain the same time! Beginning Saturday night/Sunday morning Atlantic Standard Time will be One Hour ahead of Eastern Standard zone. This Sun rises earlier and sets earlier than the Continental U.S. The Virgin Islands, a Territory of the U.S.
Bible study with Blessed JAMES a success
For six weeks a faithful group as met on Wednesday evening for ONE HOUR as we follow the African Bible Study Method working our way thru the Book of James. Our numbers have varied from 25 to 10 persons. We begin at 6:30pm, sing a few hymn/gospel choruses, examine The Word, sing a few song-elections, pray brief Evening Prayers or abbreviated Compline; then finish “on time” at 7:30pm sharp.
New Paschal Candle and Altar Lights
When I arrived, the Paschal Candle was almost finished, burned to a short six to eight inches; the “follower riding on the red nails of the Easter liturgy.” We have had six funerals and two services of the Holy Baptism. We ordered a lovely tall Paschal Candle with liquid wax. We paid three times the amount than a bees wax candle, but in three years we will be ahead. The same goes for our new Altar Candles. The neat thing is the Paschal Candle flame remains lit in the breeze. The flame on the previous model always blew out!
Hurricane Season is “officially” OVER!
We have been blessed and preserved this season; we have had NO Hurricanes. “Our Island home” has been spared. We have been lucky this year!
Advent Wreath
We have NO Advent Wreath. No one can locate one used the last two years. The Altar Guild think stored someplace there may be a home-made, four drip candles with green leaf/branches table model Advent Wreath. By showing the Almy Catalogue a donor stepped forward. Yesterday we received our new Brass Advent Candle wreath with liquid three purple and one pink candles and a large Christ candle for the center. We are ready for Advent! Now we need “locate” the stand. Some say it’s stored in the outside trailer-storage unit. Look and see. Listen to the history. Take the Church where she is. Next we wait for, a new Church year, new way of doing things, a new way of worship, a new approach to liturgy. “Come Lord Jesus!”
Six Month Evaluation
On Saturday, October 17th; the Canon to the Ordinary flew over from Tortolla. Our purpose, meet with a special called Vestry for purpose of evaluation of Priest and Vestry after six month of ministry together. The evaluation was positive and complementary to my position as Interim-Priest-in-Charge. We examined ministry/administration/teaching/liturgy/pastoral care and presence with the folks of St. Peter’s. The affirmations were positive. We have accomplished much together. Much, much more left to do and more goals to achieve/strive toward.
The Sailing Ship Tall Mast Bark-Schooner returned“Rosewood” has returned from Boston-Nova Scotia-Cape Cod-Bermuda. I was temptation to sign on for the south-bound sail to Saint Croix as crew and deck hand. Maybe when she goes North-bound in late spring-early summer????
Just a dream; but who knows? The captain also named DWIGHT! Babs and I will take a Sun-set sail aboard. We have supported the ministry-mission of this teaching ship, functioning as outreach into the educational community on Saint Croix, Boston and in Nova Scotia She targets troubled and marginal socially at-risk youth. No electric winches; think deck hands hauling all lines. Its hard work. Old fashioned “sailing-ship methods.” Anybody interested for the north-bound voyage in 2010?
“Snow Birds” are drifting back
Slowly the temporary “winter residents” are drifting back to our Condo complex.
Some of the “snow birds” live here from end October thru end of April. By January and February THE REEF will be 90% occupied. Folks return from all over the mid-west and North East.
Searching for Sea Glass
For twenty years I have spotted and picked up “sea glass” treasures while walking on the beaches of Florida, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Alaska, California, Oregon, Turkey and Greece. Here, early morning walks along the numerous beaches of Saint Croix, I usually find a few “keepers” of ocean- ground-smooth-opaque sea glass. In order of rarity, the colors are red, purple, blue, yellow, orange, white, brown and green. Triangles are the most common shape. The author of Forward Day by Day on Thursday, October 29th writes: “Sea glass collecting becomes more difficult every day, thanks to the proliferation of plastic containers over glass ones and the increase in recycling. When jagged, clear glass pieces are found on the beach, seasoned collectors urge that they be returned to the water, as those pieces are “not finished yet.” … those jagged pieces of glass must go back into the deep, vast ocean of god. There the sharp edges become smooth. There, those pieces, once dangerous, become precious to us.” (page 91, Thursday, October 29, August/September/October 2009, Forward Day by Day, Forward Movement, Cincinnati)
Church Road Sign is UP!
My first observation in February when visiting St. Peter’s and subsequently mentioned in the interview exploring a possible Interim position was there was NO SIGN identifying the Church, name, denomination or tradition. I was told the “sign had been down since one of the hurricanes. How long the road sign has been stored, on the floor leaning against the sacristy wall, no one seemed to recall! “We have a sign it’s just Not Up!” God is so good. Last week the Church road Sign was re-installed; erected next to the center gate with clear visibility along Castle Coakley road. It’s been “island-time”, Mon. Another physical plant accomplishment! God is good, all the time; the hard part is waiting for action.
Come See us Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+mino!
28 October 2009
(Saint Simon and Saint Jude)
Babs returned today!
She flew Delta from Atlanta to San Juan. I took the Cape Air commuter flight to Puerto Rico and surprised Babs in the terminal! We then flew back together to Saint Croix on the Cape Air small plane. It was, of course, a Great re-union. Not cheap, but a wonderful surprise. The “surprise” was good for both of us!
I missed my 45th Class reunion at Sewanee!
Since Graduating in 1964 from The University of the South, I have been involved
with Sewanee, serving as Trustee three times and 25th class reunion Chairman. The great distance and money for a long weekend “on the mountain,” was not possible during this Interim ministry on Saint Croix. My heart was at Sewanee on October 9-11but my full attention was at Saint Peter’s, Christiansted! Maybe I will make the
50th Class reunion!
Atlantic Standard Time does NOT Change
When “the mainland” changes time this week; the Virgin Islands remain the same time! Beginning Saturday night/Sunday morning Atlantic Standard Time will be One Hour ahead of Eastern Standard zone. This Sun rises earlier and sets earlier than the Continental U.S. The Virgin Islands, a Territory of the U.S.
Bible study with Blessed JAMES a success
For six weeks a faithful group as met on Wednesday evening for ONE HOUR as we follow the African Bible Study Method working our way thru the Book of James. Our numbers have varied from 25 to 10 persons. We begin at 6:30pm, sing a few hymn/gospel choruses, examine The Word, sing a few song-elections, pray brief Evening Prayers or abbreviated Compline; then finish “on time” at 7:30pm sharp.
New Paschal Candle and Altar Lights
When I arrived, the Paschal Candle was almost finished, burned to a short six to eight inches; the “follower riding on the red nails of the Easter liturgy.” We have had six funerals and two services of the Holy Baptism. We ordered a lovely tall Paschal Candle with liquid wax. We paid three times the amount than a bees wax candle, but in three years we will be ahead. The same goes for our new Altar Candles. The neat thing is the Paschal Candle flame remains lit in the breeze. The flame on the previous model always blew out!
Hurricane Season is “officially” OVER!
We have been blessed and preserved this season; we have had NO Hurricanes. “Our Island home” has been spared. We have been lucky this year!
Advent Wreath
We have NO Advent Wreath. No one can locate one used the last two years. The Altar Guild think stored someplace there may be a home-made, four drip candles with green leaf/branches table model Advent Wreath. By showing the Almy Catalogue a donor stepped forward. Yesterday we received our new Brass Advent Candle wreath with liquid three purple and one pink candles and a large Christ candle for the center. We are ready for Advent! Now we need “locate” the stand. Some say it’s stored in the outside trailer-storage unit. Look and see. Listen to the history. Take the Church where she is. Next we wait for, a new Church year, new way of doing things, a new way of worship, a new approach to liturgy. “Come Lord Jesus!”
Six Month Evaluation
On Saturday, October 17th; the Canon to the Ordinary flew over from Tortolla. Our purpose, meet with a special called Vestry for purpose of evaluation of Priest and Vestry after six month of ministry together. The evaluation was positive and complementary to my position as Interim-Priest-in-Charge. We examined ministry/administration/teaching/liturgy/pastoral care and presence with the folks of St. Peter’s. The affirmations were positive. We have accomplished much together. Much, much more left to do and more goals to achieve/strive toward.
The Sailing Ship Tall Mast Bark-Schooner returned“Rosewood” has returned from Boston-Nova Scotia-Cape Cod-Bermuda. I was temptation to sign on for the south-bound sail to Saint Croix as crew and deck hand. Maybe when she goes North-bound in late spring-early summer????
Just a dream; but who knows? The captain also named DWIGHT! Babs and I will take a Sun-set sail aboard. We have supported the ministry-mission of this teaching ship, functioning as outreach into the educational community on Saint Croix, Boston and in Nova Scotia She targets troubled and marginal socially at-risk youth. No electric winches; think deck hands hauling all lines. Its hard work. Old fashioned “sailing-ship methods.” Anybody interested for the north-bound voyage in 2010?
“Snow Birds” are drifting back
Slowly the temporary “winter residents” are drifting back to our Condo complex.
Some of the “snow birds” live here from end October thru end of April. By January and February THE REEF will be 90% occupied. Folks return from all over the mid-west and North East.
Searching for Sea Glass
For twenty years I have spotted and picked up “sea glass” treasures while walking on the beaches of Florida, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Alaska, California, Oregon, Turkey and Greece. Here, early morning walks along the numerous beaches of Saint Croix, I usually find a few “keepers” of ocean- ground-smooth-opaque sea glass. In order of rarity, the colors are red, purple, blue, yellow, orange, white, brown and green. Triangles are the most common shape. The author of Forward Day by Day on Thursday, October 29th writes: “Sea glass collecting becomes more difficult every day, thanks to the proliferation of plastic containers over glass ones and the increase in recycling. When jagged, clear glass pieces are found on the beach, seasoned collectors urge that they be returned to the water, as those pieces are “not finished yet.” … those jagged pieces of glass must go back into the deep, vast ocean of god. There the sharp edges become smooth. There, those pieces, once dangerous, become precious to us.” (page 91, Thursday, October 29, August/September/October 2009, Forward Day by Day, Forward Movement, Cincinnati)
Church Road Sign is UP!
My first observation in February when visiting St. Peter’s and subsequently mentioned in the interview exploring a possible Interim position was there was NO SIGN identifying the Church, name, denomination or tradition. I was told the “sign had been down since one of the hurricanes. How long the road sign has been stored, on the floor leaning against the sacristy wall, no one seemed to recall! “We have a sign it’s just Not Up!” God is so good. Last week the Church road Sign was re-installed; erected next to the center gate with clear visibility along Castle Coakley road. It’s been “island-time”, Mon. Another physical plant accomplishment! God is good, all the time; the hard part is waiting for action.
Come See us Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+mino!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Columbus Day
DEO on STX #15
12 October 2009
Saint Columbus Day!
(Federal Holiday )
It’s HOT, hot, HOT!
We have dodged (so far) the storms of destruction! There is still time for a serious storm, but so far the tropical depressions, weather waves, and hurricanes have missed us! The season is almost over…..but we still receiver in the Eastern winds the African dust from the Sahara dessert and ash from the Montserrat volcano. The haze is heavy restricting the horizon and noticeable; some folks feel the pollution in their eyes, nose and sinuses. Some days we see the northern Islands of St, Johns and Virgin Gorda, other days the haze is too thick for clear view. The last few days the sea has been very flat with few “white caps.”
More AUTO & Taxi windshield “names”Hot Item, Last trip, Forever, Scooze, Togetherness, Sook ie, LOX,
Sugar & Spices, Bread Winner, Deepest Memories, Look ‘n Wave,
Ultimate Pleasure, Simply Kool!, All Inspiration, How u like me now?
Be my Guest, Kleen Kity, Skoot It, IRITA, The Princess, & So Wa!
Small Shoes for Big Moves, C-3, Dodge Extreme, TATTOED, Still Shinning,
Forget Me Not, Virgo & Taurus, Near Angel, Sweet Deliverance,
The Juh Sunset, Praise Repent Ask Yield
Saint Coix Deanery
This is a small Diocese compared to the mainland US. Because of the small size in numbers, the church functions with strong partnership among local Churches, almost as ONE in program and ministry. Many events the five Churches of Saint Croix work together. The big deal is the local Patronal festival or name day at St. John’s, St. Peter’s, St. Paul’s, Holy Cross, and St. Francis. Our choirs come with special music and the ECW, ECM and ECY wear their respective colored shirts or
“Uniforms” matching sport coats, shirts, ties, skirts, dresses and hats. There are educational events shared and common teaching seminars. We share the resources, teachers and facilities. The Dean of Saint Croix is Deacon Delores Gumbs (no relation to the Bishop Gumbs!). For the five parishes, there are three active priests on St. Croix, and two retired clerics, in declining health. We stay busy and seem always on the go.
Saint Peter’s BBQ a great success
We began at 8am; started the charcoal fire at 8:30am on Saturday, October 4th; by the end of the day we had cooked a 50 pound pig, 24 whole chickens, a 35 pound lamb, and stewed a goat. We barrowed a trailer-cooker we used for the roasting of “the beasts.” The giant “roaster” had tin sides and top that functioned as a large oven, with an electric spit. We served 100 people near 6pm; folks brought “sides” of salad, stuffing, macaroni & cheese, salt-fish, sliced fruit and cookies. We also served “local” fruit juices. The Bishop came! +E. Ambrose Gumbs, The Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of the Virgin Islands attended our celebration BBQ when we honored our “Wall construction workers.” The Bishop enjoyed eating a sample of our roasted meat. We presented ‘Certificates of award and accomplishment” to those who labored and cooked during the building of the perimeter wall boarding the busy street, now defining the Church property. It was a grand event and fun day for all ages. The roast pork seemed to receive the highest accolades! Great Day! :)
Sunrise at Point Udal
Periodically I drive out to the Eastern most point in the United States territories and watch the early sunrise, the first to see the light of the rising Sun, before anyone else in the US Mainland! What a wonderful experience. Inspirational and spirit observed! There, at Point Udal, I usually “check-in” with my Ham Radio friends on the morning weather net (146.643) [2 meters] at 6:40am reporting the wind direction, sea conditions, clouds, rain or precipitation (if any) and hear of the ‘local conditions’ with the other Island Ham radio operators.
Columbus landed here on his Second Voyage
At the Salt River Bay, Columbus came ashore with a small exploration party;
the year 1493. There was a small skirmish with the local Arawak people. Some were killed, some “captured,” and from then on The Isle of Saint Croix was “discovered.” This morning I stood on the historic site on ‘Columbus Day’.
I prayed for those who first lived here and in memory of those who ventured across the unknown, uncharted seas.
Come see us Mon!La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+
12 October 2009
Saint Columbus Day!
(Federal Holiday )
It’s HOT, hot, HOT!
We have dodged (so far) the storms of destruction! There is still time for a serious storm, but so far the tropical depressions, weather waves, and hurricanes have missed us! The season is almost over…..but we still receiver in the Eastern winds the African dust from the Sahara dessert and ash from the Montserrat volcano. The haze is heavy restricting the horizon and noticeable; some folks feel the pollution in their eyes, nose and sinuses. Some days we see the northern Islands of St, Johns and Virgin Gorda, other days the haze is too thick for clear view. The last few days the sea has been very flat with few “white caps.”
More AUTO & Taxi windshield “names”Hot Item, Last trip, Forever, Scooze, Togetherness, Sook ie, LOX,
Sugar & Spices, Bread Winner, Deepest Memories, Look ‘n Wave,
Ultimate Pleasure, Simply Kool!, All Inspiration, How u like me now?
Be my Guest, Kleen Kity, Skoot It, IRITA, The Princess, & So Wa!
Small Shoes for Big Moves, C-3, Dodge Extreme, TATTOED, Still Shinning,
Forget Me Not, Virgo & Taurus, Near Angel, Sweet Deliverance,
The Juh Sunset, Praise Repent Ask Yield
Saint Coix Deanery
This is a small Diocese compared to the mainland US. Because of the small size in numbers, the church functions with strong partnership among local Churches, almost as ONE in program and ministry. Many events the five Churches of Saint Croix work together. The big deal is the local Patronal festival or name day at St. John’s, St. Peter’s, St. Paul’s, Holy Cross, and St. Francis. Our choirs come with special music and the ECW, ECM and ECY wear their respective colored shirts or
“Uniforms” matching sport coats, shirts, ties, skirts, dresses and hats. There are educational events shared and common teaching seminars. We share the resources, teachers and facilities. The Dean of Saint Croix is Deacon Delores Gumbs (no relation to the Bishop Gumbs!). For the five parishes, there are three active priests on St. Croix, and two retired clerics, in declining health. We stay busy and seem always on the go.
Saint Peter’s BBQ a great success
We began at 8am; started the charcoal fire at 8:30am on Saturday, October 4th; by the end of the day we had cooked a 50 pound pig, 24 whole chickens, a 35 pound lamb, and stewed a goat. We barrowed a trailer-cooker we used for the roasting of “the beasts.” The giant “roaster” had tin sides and top that functioned as a large oven, with an electric spit. We served 100 people near 6pm; folks brought “sides” of salad, stuffing, macaroni & cheese, salt-fish, sliced fruit and cookies. We also served “local” fruit juices. The Bishop came! +E. Ambrose Gumbs, The Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of the Virgin Islands attended our celebration BBQ when we honored our “Wall construction workers.” The Bishop enjoyed eating a sample of our roasted meat. We presented ‘Certificates of award and accomplishment” to those who labored and cooked during the building of the perimeter wall boarding the busy street, now defining the Church property. It was a grand event and fun day for all ages. The roast pork seemed to receive the highest accolades! Great Day! :)
Sunrise at Point Udal
Periodically I drive out to the Eastern most point in the United States territories and watch the early sunrise, the first to see the light of the rising Sun, before anyone else in the US Mainland! What a wonderful experience. Inspirational and spirit observed! There, at Point Udal, I usually “check-in” with my Ham Radio friends on the morning weather net (146.643) [2 meters] at 6:40am reporting the wind direction, sea conditions, clouds, rain or precipitation (if any) and hear of the ‘local conditions’ with the other Island Ham radio operators.
Columbus landed here on his Second Voyage
At the Salt River Bay, Columbus came ashore with a small exploration party;
the year 1493. There was a small skirmish with the local Arawak people. Some were killed, some “captured,” and from then on The Isle of Saint Croix was “discovered.” This morning I stood on the historic site on ‘Columbus Day’.
I prayed for those who first lived here and in memory of those who ventured across the unknown, uncharted seas.
Come see us Mon!La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+
Sunday, September 27, 2009
DEO on STX
DEO+ on STX #14
25 September 2009
Visitors from the Diocese of Atlanta
The Rev. David & Marie Probst from Macon were recently here for a week of clergy supply; they stayed in the St. John’s rectory, did Sunday service and enjoyed the “sun and fun.” It was good to show them around the Island;
Fr. Bob Dendtler was away for a golf tournament.
Roasted pig,sheep,goat and chicken
BBQ planned for Next Saturday twice rained out! It appears like our feast to honor workers will be a for a huge success! More later!
We waited out another “storm”
Tropical depression #8 has been downgraded with a less then 30% chance of regeneration! She is moving North-West out to sea; so whatever she does it appears it will miss us! We dodged another storm!
Car fixed!
The church new car is now repaired; the “kiss dent” was pulled-out/smoothed-over while I was “off Island.” It’s great to have a body shop man in the congregation! Some “S.O.B” backed into me while I was in Office Max; he had an “old pick-up” truck; never stopped or looked back. Jerk.
Fresh avocado right off a tree
Food is very expensive if imported; local veggies and fruit reasonably priced.
Local avocados go for $1.50 to $2 bucks each. California avocados run $3.50!
A friend picked a large “football sized avocado right off his tree; I learned if you shake it and hear the seed raddled inside, she is ready and ripe! Delicious.
Shells & coral
Its fun to gather treasures from the daily ocean walks; recently I found some beautiful large shells which line our stair case; lovely, except now more difficult to clean/sweep the steps. Go figure.
Away to Western Massachusetts
Babs and I attended province I & II Chaplain’s Conference to Retired Clergy and Surviving spouses; we were in Stockbridge, Massachusetts; we stayed at the historic Red Lion Inn; visited the Norman Rockwell Museum; Shaker working farm museum; then Babs spend a “girl-weekend-in-Manhattan” with her sister and our daughter.
Shopping at the US Army PX
A friend at St. Peter’s is retired military; there is a PX on Island; so as “guest” shopper, “the bargains” are worth the drive to the Army PX. Cash only :(
Holy Cross Monastery
While Babs was spending mucho dollars in NYC, I “retreated” to the upper Hudson River; spending the weekend at the Holy Cross Monastery and visited
with Brother Randy Greve,OHC; then enjoyed a night with Fr. David Hoopes,OHC
at St. Edwards the Martyr on 109th Street and Madison Avenue (on the edge of Harlem) on Central Park; very quiet neighborhood; great steak dinner, most reasonably priced; shocking economy and unpredictable.
Babs stayed in Cumming
We have lived in our residence in Forsyth County, Georgia now fourteen years; normal delayed maintence has caught up with us; so Babs is supervising the exterior painting and gutter repair. If the rain stops the work goes on. Slow progress with the torrential rains in north Georgia recently.
Igelesia de San Francisco
The local Hispanic Episcopal congregation is without a Priest-leader; so based on my experience assisting Saint David’s, Roswell, GA, I stumble thru the Mass as best I can with a mixed Spanish-English liturgy. The folks seem to appreciate the effort and put up with my “kindergarten Spanish.”
Come See Us Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+
(CELL PHONE works here like Atlanta: 770-402-7719)
25 September 2009
Visitors from the Diocese of Atlanta
The Rev. David & Marie Probst from Macon were recently here for a week of clergy supply; they stayed in the St. John’s rectory, did Sunday service and enjoyed the “sun and fun.” It was good to show them around the Island;
Fr. Bob Dendtler was away for a golf tournament.
Roasted pig,sheep,goat and chicken
BBQ planned for Next Saturday twice rained out! It appears like our feast to honor workers will be a for a huge success! More later!
We waited out another “storm”
Tropical depression #8 has been downgraded with a less then 30% chance of regeneration! She is moving North-West out to sea; so whatever she does it appears it will miss us! We dodged another storm!
Car fixed!
The church new car is now repaired; the “kiss dent” was pulled-out/smoothed-over while I was “off Island.” It’s great to have a body shop man in the congregation! Some “S.O.B” backed into me while I was in Office Max; he had an “old pick-up” truck; never stopped or looked back. Jerk.
Fresh avocado right off a tree
Food is very expensive if imported; local veggies and fruit reasonably priced.
Local avocados go for $1.50 to $2 bucks each. California avocados run $3.50!
A friend picked a large “football sized avocado right off his tree; I learned if you shake it and hear the seed raddled inside, she is ready and ripe! Delicious.
Shells & coral
Its fun to gather treasures from the daily ocean walks; recently I found some beautiful large shells which line our stair case; lovely, except now more difficult to clean/sweep the steps. Go figure.
Away to Western Massachusetts
Babs and I attended province I & II Chaplain’s Conference to Retired Clergy and Surviving spouses; we were in Stockbridge, Massachusetts; we stayed at the historic Red Lion Inn; visited the Norman Rockwell Museum; Shaker working farm museum; then Babs spend a “girl-weekend-in-Manhattan” with her sister and our daughter.
Shopping at the US Army PX
A friend at St. Peter’s is retired military; there is a PX on Island; so as “guest” shopper, “the bargains” are worth the drive to the Army PX. Cash only :(
Holy Cross Monastery
While Babs was spending mucho dollars in NYC, I “retreated” to the upper Hudson River; spending the weekend at the Holy Cross Monastery and visited
with Brother Randy Greve,OHC; then enjoyed a night with Fr. David Hoopes,OHC
at St. Edwards the Martyr on 109th Street and Madison Avenue (on the edge of Harlem) on Central Park; very quiet neighborhood; great steak dinner, most reasonably priced; shocking economy and unpredictable.
Babs stayed in Cumming
We have lived in our residence in Forsyth County, Georgia now fourteen years; normal delayed maintence has caught up with us; so Babs is supervising the exterior painting and gutter repair. If the rain stops the work goes on. Slow progress with the torrential rains in north Georgia recently.
Igelesia de San Francisco
The local Hispanic Episcopal congregation is without a Priest-leader; so based on my experience assisting Saint David’s, Roswell, GA, I stumble thru the Mass as best I can with a mixed Spanish-English liturgy. The folks seem to appreciate the effort and put up with my “kindergarten Spanish.”
Come See Us Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+
(CELL PHONE works here like Atlanta: 770-402-7719)
Monday, August 31, 2009
DEO on STX
DEO+ on STX #13
31 August 2009
Deanery Prayer Breakfast
On Saturday, August 22nd, the Saint Croix Deanery came together for a “Prayer Breakfast” in the lawn of St. Peter’s; all the active parish clergy sat on the riser and had a part; three presentation/speakers offered meditations; an assembled “choir” of singers lead us in worship; we then eat together from an array of Crusian local dishes. The “fund raiser” for The Diocese of the Virgin Islands toward the severe budget reductions during the recent economic downturn.
It’s HOT, Hot, hot!
Summer is here; The Sun is bright; clouds are scarce; rain storms last only a short time; 1pm to 5pm is the “baking afternoon,” when if one can go inside to escape the glare an afternoon nap comes easy if the breeze is favorable or the fans are pointed directly upon the prone body lightly clothed (if any). Afternoon showers are a given; a change of clothes automatic. We are talking in the 90’s.
Hurricanes dodged us so far
They came roaring by way off at a great distance and we escaped the hurricane “bullets” this time! First the tropical depressions and “waves of weather systems” later named: Anna, Claudette & Bill. Anna formed after she passed us by! Bill veered off to the north with no East Coast land fall! Claudette without a “name” missed us then built up force in the Gulf of Mexico; got her title and roared ashore into the Panhandle of Florida as a tropical storm. The next hurricane name is Danny; went away! So, we wait out the hurricane-storm season and pray. One never knows for sure; but there are adequate warnings for preparations. More later as further storms come our way from Africa.
Sun Set Jazz
On the fourth Friday of the month in Fredericksted at the peer, beside the sea a Jazz band plays a public concert at Sun Set. It’s a lovely time for friends to gather, purchase food and drinks from local vendors or bring your own picnic;
Sit on a blanket or haul beach chairs; and enjoy the harmonies as brother sun sinks into the ocean! We’ve been twice. Fredericksted is on the Western end of St. Croix, about 40 miles from where we live. Wonderful evening. Cool breezes.
BBQ off and running
The committee for the Celebration BBQ on Saturday, Sept. 5th has the day already in order; these men are well organized and dedicated; a friend from
Our residence, The Reef Condos has volunteered after my invitation; Robert
Is a retired Kentucky Fire Fighter, (Battalion Chief) who says he is used to putting our fires not building them! He is very familiar with “Southern Pig Pick’in”
BBQ roasting whole hogs; so we are in good hands!
More auto/taxi/truck wind shield “titles”:
Crusian Treasure, I’m Blended, Tek U Time Not U Life, The Truth Life Has No Substitute, Drive Like You own car not the road, Yahveh Roshee, TEASE,
Who Cares?, One & All, Thrive to Change, Big Al, Knock @ Midnight, No Strings Attached, Socor Warrior, I am Bless, Deep Soul, Empress, Journia, Life Spice, Leave Dem Clueless, Joy Ride, No Nonesense, Big Cat, Ori Oa, Whatever,
S.O.S. to the rescue, OO7, PIE, Who Run It II, Kiss Vee, Good to Go, Adoni, Playa Pimp, Divine Beauty, Lady in Red, I’ll take you There II, Just Like That,
Chevoleer, Masive, No Fear of the Storms, Big Stick, Guidance III, Stop & Save,
Nobody Loves Nobody, Creep Up, Boricua, Esteemly Lovable, Daly’s Daily Dash.
Hispanic Mission
San Francisco de Asia is the Hispanic congregation for Saint Croix; I serve as celebrant/preacher on the third Sunday of the month; thanks be to God for the experience at St. David’s, Roswell, GA, for a bi-lingual worship experience. My Spanish is haltingly weak; but I get by! They are wonderfully warm people. I usually prepare a “short sermon” easily translated and distribute the one page message in English to all present; the younger folks able to read the English; mature congregants only speak and understand Spanish. We enjoy the lively and enthusiastic worship music. Eight Honduras Mission trips exposed me to the liturgy and genre! My pigeon Spanish get me by.
Babs stayed home!
She has “had it” with the heat! I predict she will remain at our residence in Cumming, GA until October. We flew “home” on August 23rd thru Puerto Rico to Atlanta, then our neighbor, Nancy picked us up at Hartsfield Airport for a quick drive North to Cumming, arriving just before darkness set in; I took Babs out to a surprise dinner at Longhorn’s Steak House . I write this while attending the conference in Savannah, representing both Atlanta and V.I. Dioceses for the Episcopal Church Disaster Response Team from Wednesday evening until early Saturday morning (8/26 thru 8/29). I return to Saint Croix late on Saturday evening. Mass was usual on Sunday (8/30). Babs goes with me for the Church Pension Fund Conference in mid-September in Massachusetts. More next issue.
La Paz y Buen Camino!
Come see us Mon!
Dwight Ogier+
31 August 2009
Deanery Prayer Breakfast
On Saturday, August 22nd, the Saint Croix Deanery came together for a “Prayer Breakfast” in the lawn of St. Peter’s; all the active parish clergy sat on the riser and had a part; three presentation/speakers offered meditations; an assembled “choir” of singers lead us in worship; we then eat together from an array of Crusian local dishes. The “fund raiser” for The Diocese of the Virgin Islands toward the severe budget reductions during the recent economic downturn.
It’s HOT, Hot, hot!
Summer is here; The Sun is bright; clouds are scarce; rain storms last only a short time; 1pm to 5pm is the “baking afternoon,” when if one can go inside to escape the glare an afternoon nap comes easy if the breeze is favorable or the fans are pointed directly upon the prone body lightly clothed (if any). Afternoon showers are a given; a change of clothes automatic. We are talking in the 90’s.
Hurricanes dodged us so far
They came roaring by way off at a great distance and we escaped the hurricane “bullets” this time! First the tropical depressions and “waves of weather systems” later named: Anna, Claudette & Bill. Anna formed after she passed us by! Bill veered off to the north with no East Coast land fall! Claudette without a “name” missed us then built up force in the Gulf of Mexico; got her title and roared ashore into the Panhandle of Florida as a tropical storm. The next hurricane name is Danny; went away! So, we wait out the hurricane-storm season and pray. One never knows for sure; but there are adequate warnings for preparations. More later as further storms come our way from Africa.
Sun Set Jazz
On the fourth Friday of the month in Fredericksted at the peer, beside the sea a Jazz band plays a public concert at Sun Set. It’s a lovely time for friends to gather, purchase food and drinks from local vendors or bring your own picnic;
Sit on a blanket or haul beach chairs; and enjoy the harmonies as brother sun sinks into the ocean! We’ve been twice. Fredericksted is on the Western end of St. Croix, about 40 miles from where we live. Wonderful evening. Cool breezes.
BBQ off and running
The committee for the Celebration BBQ on Saturday, Sept. 5th has the day already in order; these men are well organized and dedicated; a friend from
Our residence, The Reef Condos has volunteered after my invitation; Robert
Is a retired Kentucky Fire Fighter, (Battalion Chief) who says he is used to putting our fires not building them! He is very familiar with “Southern Pig Pick’in”
BBQ roasting whole hogs; so we are in good hands!
More auto/taxi/truck wind shield “titles”:
Crusian Treasure, I’m Blended, Tek U Time Not U Life, The Truth Life Has No Substitute, Drive Like You own car not the road, Yahveh Roshee, TEASE,
Who Cares?, One & All, Thrive to Change, Big Al, Knock @ Midnight, No Strings Attached, Socor Warrior, I am Bless, Deep Soul, Empress, Journia, Life Spice, Leave Dem Clueless, Joy Ride, No Nonesense, Big Cat, Ori Oa, Whatever,
S.O.S. to the rescue, OO7, PIE, Who Run It II, Kiss Vee, Good to Go, Adoni, Playa Pimp, Divine Beauty, Lady in Red, I’ll take you There II, Just Like That,
Chevoleer, Masive, No Fear of the Storms, Big Stick, Guidance III, Stop & Save,
Nobody Loves Nobody, Creep Up, Boricua, Esteemly Lovable, Daly’s Daily Dash.
Hispanic Mission
San Francisco de Asia is the Hispanic congregation for Saint Croix; I serve as celebrant/preacher on the third Sunday of the month; thanks be to God for the experience at St. David’s, Roswell, GA, for a bi-lingual worship experience. My Spanish is haltingly weak; but I get by! They are wonderfully warm people. I usually prepare a “short sermon” easily translated and distribute the one page message in English to all present; the younger folks able to read the English; mature congregants only speak and understand Spanish. We enjoy the lively and enthusiastic worship music. Eight Honduras Mission trips exposed me to the liturgy and genre! My pigeon Spanish get me by.
Babs stayed home!
She has “had it” with the heat! I predict she will remain at our residence in Cumming, GA until October. We flew “home” on August 23rd thru Puerto Rico to Atlanta, then our neighbor, Nancy picked us up at Hartsfield Airport for a quick drive North to Cumming, arriving just before darkness set in; I took Babs out to a surprise dinner at Longhorn’s Steak House . I write this while attending the conference in Savannah, representing both Atlanta and V.I. Dioceses for the Episcopal Church Disaster Response Team from Wednesday evening until early Saturday morning (8/26 thru 8/29). I return to Saint Croix late on Saturday evening. Mass was usual on Sunday (8/30). Babs goes with me for the Church Pension Fund Conference in mid-September in Massachusetts. More next issue.
La Paz y Buen Camino!
Come see us Mon!
Dwight Ogier+
Monday, August 10, 2009
DEO on STX #12
August 10, 2009
Loose $10; Find $100!
I purchased a sheet of stamps at postal sub-station; had my car tires rotated and balanced; got home and never again saw the $10 sheet of postage stamps! Either dropped them or was “lifted” from the seat by the workers at garage! Next day walking on the beach Babs finds a fresh $100 bill! Lose $10 gain $100! TBTG
TAN TAN Tours
We were given one ticket (won in a “Crab Race”) [more later!];
So purchased another ticket and off we went for a half day jeep tour of the Western part of Saint Croix; enjoying top of “Blue Mountain,” historic sugar mill ruins, Bilboa Tree (250 years old) and the ocean tidal pools. It was a serious but rough jeep ride over back woods-wilderness-trails; great views, historic lectures of flora and fauna. “Tan Tan” is a local tree. The “found money” paid for the trip!
The Church WALL/Fence is finished!
“Yellow or white?” We had one brief on site disagreement amongst the workers;
The first base/under-coating “white” paint was purchased; the under-coat ran out; someone went to the paint store and purchased another brand, returned with a “yellow” paint! A brief but disagreement insured; White or Yellow paint; It made no difference since the undercoat was to be covered; White won out! We escaped a minor crisis or wall fight! It’s white! But “WHO” will have keys? Emerging design…………
THREE Gates
We now have three iron gates/openings entrance/exits for the wall/fence securing the property. The ECW allocated in their budget a number of years ago for the main gate ($3,000!); they have given the money with pride and foresight! Our next decision will be an allocation of “keys” when the Church property becomes locked. Who gets and wants keys to the gates? Who need and will be issues keys? There is already a scramble for the keys. It’s a power thing for control! I get it; have seen this chapter before in other books/churches! This is not rocket science, it’s another pure and predictable interim/transitional tasking/response. It’s a rich teaching/learning opportunity.
We are planning a celebration BBQ to honor the workers.
I have announced a BBQ celebration for Saturday, September 5 to honor the workers on the wall; we will BBQ a pig, goat, sheep, and a large piece of beef!
More later!
BAT flys into P/H as night falls
ST. Peter’s has natural air flowing; we open the doors wide; wooden slats above the doors allow constant air flow; there are no screens; each night when there is an after dark meeting a bat flies inside, circles the room and dips down upon the participants; some folks freak-our; some ignore the bat; most just put up with it knowing there will be no harm and the bird eats thousands of mosquitoes and insects daily!
Babs’ Quilts
I hauled down as “extra luggage” Babs’ sewing machine, paying the increased weight and baggage fees! She has spent hours sewing grand-child clothes and quilts; her current project is a local colored pattern with “Mocko Jumbie” dancers. When we leave the Islands we will have with us local colors and treasured sewing projects; most of which will be given away, her discipline of sharing time, efforts and neat stuff with friends and family.
Boots the Cat: “the meow moocher”
Our “wandering” neighborhood feral cat has become more friendly now allowing a morning pet on his head and scratch on the back near the tail;
”Boots” is rather independent; he is a spayed male; he snacks around; I feed him each morning he shows up; its something to share with and love as nature provides during my morning wake up rituals beginning near 5am before dawn.
Diocese of the Virgin Islands CYCLE of PRAYER for 30 days
From a distance it’s been easy to maintain the Diocese of Atlanta Cycle of Prayer.
Sharing the concept with Bishop Ambrose Gumbs; he like the idea; so I have written a Thirty Day Cycle of Prayer for the DOVI; it is now published on the web-site and used in various parishes on Sunday; especially St. Peter’s, Christiansted.
Parish web-site stalled for further study/evaluation
My idea and vision for a web-site for St. Peter’s has stalled for lack of understanding and risk of commitment; I think it’s the New Thing “never done before” syndrome. Maybe the Vestry will catch on to internet communications. Maybe it will happen before I leave? If not I have planted the seed and this emphasizes the need to teach further on the importance of internet connect ability/advertisement. Typical congregational leadership timid for/to change: Slow to act
Can This Marriage be Saved?
I have seen a number of couples whose marriages need interior “work” and better relationships building. They have fallen into years of poor communications and assumptions; I am not sure they want or will change their behaviors, nor do they want to separate! I am not sure these marriages can be saved! So sad.
This is normal congregational pastoral care; do these folks respond to affirmations and appreciative inquiry or is the pain so severe they just now realize the dysfunction? God be with them; God can heal anything!
Single Moms with Children
There is a social pattern of numerous single Moms; young women with children without husbands. When I inquire about a child’s father the response is something like: “He is dead, or “off Island.” Some will say, “I do not know where he is.” A very few exceptions are seen, some couple s attend church together. A few of our women have “boy friends” that are not the fathers of their children. Go figure. It’s a different social system.
Social disease: GAMBLING
Lottery tickets are sold everywhere by folks who wave the sheets at intersections, in mall parking lots, on sidewalks front of grocery stores and as one enters the hardware store. At The Divi Casino one can play electronic poker, roulette, Texas hold’em, Black Jack, etc….. Lots of folks spend their pay checks away gambling. Alcohol is related to the gambling. The Island has been designated or zoned by the legislature and assembly for Five plots – only ONE is up & running: These Zoned future Casino/Resorts are supposed to bring in tourists to boost the economy. Our difference compared to Utah, Nevada, New Jersey, Mississippi, Florida and Louisiana these are not ‘native lands.’ The aim is m ore like a mini-Los Vegas. That’s my impression. I may be wrong.
Not many CRUISE Ships come here
The cruise ship dock is at Frederiksted; only 2 to 3 ships arrive per month; when a ship is in, tourists trickle into Christiansted; Tour jitneys, open-air VANS-Taxi transport the folks who arrive shopping on their minds. One can spot the tourists by their attire.
Building Committee
A competent future thinking building committee has been established to exercise simple renovations and create Plans for expansion & site MASTER PLAN. All this energy has been created by the 2010 celebration of the Church’s 40th year anniversary. Good stuff is happening; long range planning occurring.
Sunday worship – summer slump- school is out
The Deanery summer YOUTH CAMP got off to a s-l-o-w start; St. Croix Deanery Summer Camp had Late start –up. I was skeptical IF it would fly, but after waiting a solid week children began to show up; or parents began to bring the children. We ended up with 31 kids on the last day. It was a good Church Bible School. Our Church summer attendance has slipped BUT our money and collections have continued to be strong. I can’t figure that. No financial summer slump! PTL!
Gov’t regulations
There are strict inspections all good regarding child safety, and food handlers certifications. The diocese offered the course: “Safe Guarding God’s Children.”
The Department of Child Series – Parks & Recreation literally controlled out facility. All the camp Food/snacks/lunches were brought in and delivered from Government grant money. I have mixed thinking and opinions of these “regs.”
I know it’s a control issue. It’s a new cultural awareness issue. The best thing was the outside inspectors got our interior signs of entrance/exits in place. Some of the mess and junk was thrown out; we are a neater and more orderly place of worship. Our parish hall now is a better functioning room. Safer.
“Oh, that I had wings like a dove!” (Psalm 55:7)
There have bee times I have gotten blue and sad. When I feel this way it is usually related to a disappointment or making little or no progress on a goal I may have set; I look at the morning dove and want to leave! There have been times I have wanted to escape the Island! Go, run, swim away, leave for a while. But, then I realize it’s Hot in Atlanta, too, and I would struggle with something else back home! Relax Man.
Birthday/anniversary special dinner
Our wedding anniversary is July 20th; Babs’ birthday is July 22nd; for forty plus years we have gone out to dinner on July 21st, celebrating both events usually at some nice restaurant. No different here on St. Croix. We did move our special celebration to Friday night, July 24th! We ate at The SAVANT Restaurant out on the outdoor patio/bar, dinning L’FRESCO; we enjoyed delicious dinners of Mahi & Steak; the evening reminded us of dinning outside in Greece and Turkey.
SENIOR WARDEN
The current Senior Warden was appointed by my predecessor; her second year; I couldn’t ask for any better Senior Warden! She is a dedicated Christian lady, mature Mom, excellent business woman and gentle listener; she is wise and culturally attuned. She thinks ahead, but the main thing she supports me! As a professional Physical therapist her reputation on St. Croix is strong among the medical community. A Puerto Rican by origin, she is married to a long standing Cruzan formally the Commissioner of Agriculture under the previous gubernatorial political Régime. She holds the rank of Lt. Col. US VI National Guard. I am blessed by her attentive nature to the Church, congregation, Diocese and to me. She offers much wisdom and compassionate attention; especially to me! We seem to be a good team! I am unclear if she is willing to serve a third term. Senior Wardens tend to burn out with too much too long. She may very well need a break; we shall see in a few months.
Our Junior Warden is most efficient,
She is gentle and discerning; she is capable of delegation and empowering volunteer workers in the congregation; she has a keen sense of finances and flows thru when requested by me or the Vestry.
Secretary resigns – search for replacement
I have interviewed a number of young potential candidates for the secretary position; Fay Friday leaves at the end of August; moving to Tampa, Florida begin a new start and life away from the Island of St. Croix where she has grown up and lived all her life. I wish her the best and pray for her daily. I will miss her!
This is the pattern for young folks, they leave the Island to seek themselves; many return and discover this isn’t such a bad place after all; typical small town mentality/social patterns of exit and return by young people/young adults.
MORE Auto “names” or “windshield-signs” seen on auto and light trucks:
SO WHAT!, Scorpions Sting, Evil Runways, WB, Just Hitched!, C’sura Love,
The Silent Two, Rude Boy, Dusty-Trusty, Rule Boy, Preacher Man, Waves & curls,
Trusty-Dusty, Kind-a-like U, Hot Car, Cool ONE; Red MON, Cold ONE, Trunk Man.
COME SEE US MON!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+
August 10, 2009
Loose $10; Find $100!
I purchased a sheet of stamps at postal sub-station; had my car tires rotated and balanced; got home and never again saw the $10 sheet of postage stamps! Either dropped them or was “lifted” from the seat by the workers at garage! Next day walking on the beach Babs finds a fresh $100 bill! Lose $10 gain $100! TBTG
TAN TAN Tours
We were given one ticket (won in a “Crab Race”) [more later!];
So purchased another ticket and off we went for a half day jeep tour of the Western part of Saint Croix; enjoying top of “Blue Mountain,” historic sugar mill ruins, Bilboa Tree (250 years old) and the ocean tidal pools. It was a serious but rough jeep ride over back woods-wilderness-trails; great views, historic lectures of flora and fauna. “Tan Tan” is a local tree. The “found money” paid for the trip!
The Church WALL/Fence is finished!
“Yellow or white?” We had one brief on site disagreement amongst the workers;
The first base/under-coating “white” paint was purchased; the under-coat ran out; someone went to the paint store and purchased another brand, returned with a “yellow” paint! A brief but disagreement insured; White or Yellow paint; It made no difference since the undercoat was to be covered; White won out! We escaped a minor crisis or wall fight! It’s white! But “WHO” will have keys? Emerging design…………
THREE Gates
We now have three iron gates/openings entrance/exits for the wall/fence securing the property. The ECW allocated in their budget a number of years ago for the main gate ($3,000!); they have given the money with pride and foresight! Our next decision will be an allocation of “keys” when the Church property becomes locked. Who gets and wants keys to the gates? Who need and will be issues keys? There is already a scramble for the keys. It’s a power thing for control! I get it; have seen this chapter before in other books/churches! This is not rocket science, it’s another pure and predictable interim/transitional tasking/response. It’s a rich teaching/learning opportunity.
We are planning a celebration BBQ to honor the workers.
I have announced a BBQ celebration for Saturday, September 5 to honor the workers on the wall; we will BBQ a pig, goat, sheep, and a large piece of beef!
More later!
BAT flys into P/H as night falls
ST. Peter’s has natural air flowing; we open the doors wide; wooden slats above the doors allow constant air flow; there are no screens; each night when there is an after dark meeting a bat flies inside, circles the room and dips down upon the participants; some folks freak-our; some ignore the bat; most just put up with it knowing there will be no harm and the bird eats thousands of mosquitoes and insects daily!
Babs’ Quilts
I hauled down as “extra luggage” Babs’ sewing machine, paying the increased weight and baggage fees! She has spent hours sewing grand-child clothes and quilts; her current project is a local colored pattern with “Mocko Jumbie” dancers. When we leave the Islands we will have with us local colors and treasured sewing projects; most of which will be given away, her discipline of sharing time, efforts and neat stuff with friends and family.
Boots the Cat: “the meow moocher”
Our “wandering” neighborhood feral cat has become more friendly now allowing a morning pet on his head and scratch on the back near the tail;
”Boots” is rather independent; he is a spayed male; he snacks around; I feed him each morning he shows up; its something to share with and love as nature provides during my morning wake up rituals beginning near 5am before dawn.
Diocese of the Virgin Islands CYCLE of PRAYER for 30 days
From a distance it’s been easy to maintain the Diocese of Atlanta Cycle of Prayer.
Sharing the concept with Bishop Ambrose Gumbs; he like the idea; so I have written a Thirty Day Cycle of Prayer for the DOVI; it is now published on the web-site and used in various parishes on Sunday; especially St. Peter’s, Christiansted.
Parish web-site stalled for further study/evaluation
My idea and vision for a web-site for St. Peter’s has stalled for lack of understanding and risk of commitment; I think it’s the New Thing “never done before” syndrome. Maybe the Vestry will catch on to internet communications. Maybe it will happen before I leave? If not I have planted the seed and this emphasizes the need to teach further on the importance of internet connect ability/advertisement. Typical congregational leadership timid for/to change: Slow to act
Can This Marriage be Saved?
I have seen a number of couples whose marriages need interior “work” and better relationships building. They have fallen into years of poor communications and assumptions; I am not sure they want or will change their behaviors, nor do they want to separate! I am not sure these marriages can be saved! So sad.
This is normal congregational pastoral care; do these folks respond to affirmations and appreciative inquiry or is the pain so severe they just now realize the dysfunction? God be with them; God can heal anything!
Single Moms with Children
There is a social pattern of numerous single Moms; young women with children without husbands. When I inquire about a child’s father the response is something like: “He is dead, or “off Island.” Some will say, “I do not know where he is.” A very few exceptions are seen, some couple s attend church together. A few of our women have “boy friends” that are not the fathers of their children. Go figure. It’s a different social system.
Social disease: GAMBLING
Lottery tickets are sold everywhere by folks who wave the sheets at intersections, in mall parking lots, on sidewalks front of grocery stores and as one enters the hardware store. At The Divi Casino one can play electronic poker, roulette, Texas hold’em, Black Jack, etc….. Lots of folks spend their pay checks away gambling. Alcohol is related to the gambling. The Island has been designated or zoned by the legislature and assembly for Five plots – only ONE is up & running: These Zoned future Casino/Resorts are supposed to bring in tourists to boost the economy. Our difference compared to Utah, Nevada, New Jersey, Mississippi, Florida and Louisiana these are not ‘native lands.’ The aim is m ore like a mini-Los Vegas. That’s my impression. I may be wrong.
Not many CRUISE Ships come here
The cruise ship dock is at Frederiksted; only 2 to 3 ships arrive per month; when a ship is in, tourists trickle into Christiansted; Tour jitneys, open-air VANS-Taxi transport the folks who arrive shopping on their minds. One can spot the tourists by their attire.
Building Committee
A competent future thinking building committee has been established to exercise simple renovations and create Plans for expansion & site MASTER PLAN. All this energy has been created by the 2010 celebration of the Church’s 40th year anniversary. Good stuff is happening; long range planning occurring.
Sunday worship – summer slump- school is out
The Deanery summer YOUTH CAMP got off to a s-l-o-w start; St. Croix Deanery Summer Camp had Late start –up. I was skeptical IF it would fly, but after waiting a solid week children began to show up; or parents began to bring the children. We ended up with 31 kids on the last day. It was a good Church Bible School. Our Church summer attendance has slipped BUT our money and collections have continued to be strong. I can’t figure that. No financial summer slump! PTL!
Gov’t regulations
There are strict inspections all good regarding child safety, and food handlers certifications. The diocese offered the course: “Safe Guarding God’s Children.”
The Department of Child Series – Parks & Recreation literally controlled out facility. All the camp Food/snacks/lunches were brought in and delivered from Government grant money. I have mixed thinking and opinions of these “regs.”
I know it’s a control issue. It’s a new cultural awareness issue. The best thing was the outside inspectors got our interior signs of entrance/exits in place. Some of the mess and junk was thrown out; we are a neater and more orderly place of worship. Our parish hall now is a better functioning room. Safer.
“Oh, that I had wings like a dove!” (Psalm 55:7)
There have bee times I have gotten blue and sad. When I feel this way it is usually related to a disappointment or making little or no progress on a goal I may have set; I look at the morning dove and want to leave! There have been times I have wanted to escape the Island! Go, run, swim away, leave for a while. But, then I realize it’s Hot in Atlanta, too, and I would struggle with something else back home! Relax Man.
Birthday/anniversary special dinner
Our wedding anniversary is July 20th; Babs’ birthday is July 22nd; for forty plus years we have gone out to dinner on July 21st, celebrating both events usually at some nice restaurant. No different here on St. Croix. We did move our special celebration to Friday night, July 24th! We ate at The SAVANT Restaurant out on the outdoor patio/bar, dinning L’FRESCO; we enjoyed delicious dinners of Mahi & Steak; the evening reminded us of dinning outside in Greece and Turkey.
SENIOR WARDEN
The current Senior Warden was appointed by my predecessor; her second year; I couldn’t ask for any better Senior Warden! She is a dedicated Christian lady, mature Mom, excellent business woman and gentle listener; she is wise and culturally attuned. She thinks ahead, but the main thing she supports me! As a professional Physical therapist her reputation on St. Croix is strong among the medical community. A Puerto Rican by origin, she is married to a long standing Cruzan formally the Commissioner of Agriculture under the previous gubernatorial political Régime. She holds the rank of Lt. Col. US VI National Guard. I am blessed by her attentive nature to the Church, congregation, Diocese and to me. She offers much wisdom and compassionate attention; especially to me! We seem to be a good team! I am unclear if she is willing to serve a third term. Senior Wardens tend to burn out with too much too long. She may very well need a break; we shall see in a few months.
Our Junior Warden is most efficient,
She is gentle and discerning; she is capable of delegation and empowering volunteer workers in the congregation; she has a keen sense of finances and flows thru when requested by me or the Vestry.
Secretary resigns – search for replacement
I have interviewed a number of young potential candidates for the secretary position; Fay Friday leaves at the end of August; moving to Tampa, Florida begin a new start and life away from the Island of St. Croix where she has grown up and lived all her life. I wish her the best and pray for her daily. I will miss her!
This is the pattern for young folks, they leave the Island to seek themselves; many return and discover this isn’t such a bad place after all; typical small town mentality/social patterns of exit and return by young people/young adults.
MORE Auto “names” or “windshield-signs” seen on auto and light trucks:
SO WHAT!, Scorpions Sting, Evil Runways, WB, Just Hitched!, C’sura Love,
The Silent Two, Rude Boy, Dusty-Trusty, Rule Boy, Preacher Man, Waves & curls,
Trusty-Dusty, Kind-a-like U, Hot Car, Cool ONE; Red MON, Cold ONE, Trunk Man.
COME SEE US MON!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DWIGHT OGIER+
Monday, August 3, 2009
#11 August 2, 2009
DEO+ on STX #11
Sunday: August 2, 2009
Church Keys
Saint Peter is rendered in art with loads of keys. On my first day as Interim Priest-in-Charge of St. Peter’s, the Senior Warden handed me a large ring of keys, all un-labeled. I still have not figured out what key fits which door or lock!
Thanks be to the Lord of all Churches for a great and hard working part-time-
sexton and dedicated Men’s group. I need not worry about un-locking for any meetings/event. It’s such a pleasure to arrive with doors open and depart knowing all property will be secured and locked! I still have all these keys!
A Mystery Man Sleeps on the back steps
The Church Sexton tells me almost nightly a strange man sleeps on the steps of the church in the back next to the parish hall; I have not seen him nor few folks seem to have any knowledge of his existence. We shall see what happens when the Church wall/fence is complete. Where will he sleep when it rains all night?
What is his name? When does he come and go? One of God’s lost sheep, Jesus came to save and shepherd. Maybe we (I) will meet the church steps sleeper.
Road signs:
Jah love Y Mon, Caution Horse County Next 5 Miles, Slow Café Ahead,
Our Watershed – Our Home- Keep It Clean!, Bikes ahead, Slow Mon.
More auto/truck/Taxi “names”:
Super Duty, Paradise, Don’t even Think About IT!, Get Rich or Die Trying,
Weather has slightly changed
We are still in the Sahara Dust stream; it’s hazy; the horizon is dim; visibility very restricted to about six miles out to sea. No tropical “waves” so far of any consequence spurned and churned off the African coast; we watch the barometer for falling barometric pressure. It’s becoming still; we pray (literally) for breeze and the prevailing East winds.
Babs searches for shopping bargains
Most of the goods are imported or shipped into the Island. Babs has been sewing with vigor for our grand-daughter, Phoebe. Quality cloth and material is difficult to find on the local economy; when of Island or on the main-land, she mails packages of millenary back for her projects.
“Boots” the adopted cat
I awake near 5am; come down the stairs on the condo and open the front-view-patio-door. “Boots” our feral neighborhood cat greets me with a morning meow.
I feed him some cat food; he allows me to pet him; he leaves to beg next door!
Street People of Christiansted
+ A very thin man pushes a wheel chair through the streets; he rarely sits in the seat; he usually sits on the curb or sleeps on park bench next to the board walk along the harbor. He asks ONLY for cigarettes. Tourists give him money. Most days he wears a red shirt!
+ Man with three crutches walks along on two; he carries the third (a spare?).
He is amputated below the knee one leg. He daily works the tourists asking for money or “support.”
+ “Bag” lady with four legged walking cane/stick with many plastic bags walks in the middle of the road; she usually wears a white dress and waits for the public bus; she will scream at you if you offer her a ride! We are talking six to seven miles out of town!
+Rastafarians wear long beards and braided hair, sometimes the matted hair hangs to their knees! Most come from Jamaica.
+ Clean well groomed young male hangs out in center Isle, stands in line at fast food stores, as the customer receives change of purchase he says: “Give a dollar!” He also works the corners, walks out into the street, the taps on the window, says the same line! He is a beer drinker.
MAGO MELEE
Mangos are ripe and the trees are full! Folks at St. Peter’s bring sacks of fresh Mangos; needles to say we have all the sweet fruit we can eat; we give some to neighbors at The Reef Condo. Babs peels and we freeze what we do not eat rapidly. It tastes wonderful in a fruit smoothie! Great breakfast drink. This queen of the tropical fruits offers sweet and sour delectable treats; wonderful in salads.
Maybe Mango ice cream?
Episcopal Ecclesia de San Francisco
The Hispanic Mission of San Francisco has no full time clergy. I assist every third Sunday for the bi-lingual Mass; I read the pray of Institution and Consecration in haltering Spanish. The people appreciate the Priestly presence and my efforts; a translator interprets the sermon. St. Peter’s service begins at 08:30am;
San Francisco starts at 11:00am. It’s a LONG morning.
Come See us Mom!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
Dwight Ogier+
e-mail: dwightogier@bellsouth.net
cell phone: 770-402-7719
address: 5130 Teague Bay – St. Croix
Christiansted, US VI 00820
Sunday: August 2, 2009
Church Keys
Saint Peter is rendered in art with loads of keys. On my first day as Interim Priest-in-Charge of St. Peter’s, the Senior Warden handed me a large ring of keys, all un-labeled. I still have not figured out what key fits which door or lock!
Thanks be to the Lord of all Churches for a great and hard working part-time-
sexton and dedicated Men’s group. I need not worry about un-locking for any meetings/event. It’s such a pleasure to arrive with doors open and depart knowing all property will be secured and locked! I still have all these keys!
A Mystery Man Sleeps on the back steps
The Church Sexton tells me almost nightly a strange man sleeps on the steps of the church in the back next to the parish hall; I have not seen him nor few folks seem to have any knowledge of his existence. We shall see what happens when the Church wall/fence is complete. Where will he sleep when it rains all night?
What is his name? When does he come and go? One of God’s lost sheep, Jesus came to save and shepherd. Maybe we (I) will meet the church steps sleeper.
Road signs:
Jah love Y Mon, Caution Horse County Next 5 Miles, Slow Café Ahead,
Our Watershed – Our Home- Keep It Clean!, Bikes ahead, Slow Mon.
More auto/truck/Taxi “names”:
Super Duty, Paradise, Don’t even Think About IT!, Get Rich or Die Trying,
Weather has slightly changed
We are still in the Sahara Dust stream; it’s hazy; the horizon is dim; visibility very restricted to about six miles out to sea. No tropical “waves” so far of any consequence spurned and churned off the African coast; we watch the barometer for falling barometric pressure. It’s becoming still; we pray (literally) for breeze and the prevailing East winds.
Babs searches for shopping bargains
Most of the goods are imported or shipped into the Island. Babs has been sewing with vigor for our grand-daughter, Phoebe. Quality cloth and material is difficult to find on the local economy; when of Island or on the main-land, she mails packages of millenary back for her projects.
“Boots” the adopted cat
I awake near 5am; come down the stairs on the condo and open the front-view-patio-door. “Boots” our feral neighborhood cat greets me with a morning meow.
I feed him some cat food; he allows me to pet him; he leaves to beg next door!
Street People of Christiansted
+ A very thin man pushes a wheel chair through the streets; he rarely sits in the seat; he usually sits on the curb or sleeps on park bench next to the board walk along the harbor. He asks ONLY for cigarettes. Tourists give him money. Most days he wears a red shirt!
+ Man with three crutches walks along on two; he carries the third (a spare?).
He is amputated below the knee one leg. He daily works the tourists asking for money or “support.”
+ “Bag” lady with four legged walking cane/stick with many plastic bags walks in the middle of the road; she usually wears a white dress and waits for the public bus; she will scream at you if you offer her a ride! We are talking six to seven miles out of town!
+Rastafarians wear long beards and braided hair, sometimes the matted hair hangs to their knees! Most come from Jamaica.
+ Clean well groomed young male hangs out in center Isle, stands in line at fast food stores, as the customer receives change of purchase he says: “Give a dollar!” He also works the corners, walks out into the street, the taps on the window, says the same line! He is a beer drinker.
MAGO MELEE
Mangos are ripe and the trees are full! Folks at St. Peter’s bring sacks of fresh Mangos; needles to say we have all the sweet fruit we can eat; we give some to neighbors at The Reef Condo. Babs peels and we freeze what we do not eat rapidly. It tastes wonderful in a fruit smoothie! Great breakfast drink. This queen of the tropical fruits offers sweet and sour delectable treats; wonderful in salads.
Maybe Mango ice cream?
Episcopal Ecclesia de San Francisco
The Hispanic Mission of San Francisco has no full time clergy. I assist every third Sunday for the bi-lingual Mass; I read the pray of Institution and Consecration in haltering Spanish. The people appreciate the Priestly presence and my efforts; a translator interprets the sermon. St. Peter’s service begins at 08:30am;
San Francisco starts at 11:00am. It’s a LONG morning.
Come See us Mom!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
Dwight Ogier+
e-mail: dwightogier@bellsouth.net
cell phone: 770-402-7719
address: 5130 Teague Bay – St. Croix
Christiansted, US VI 00820
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