saint-michaels-sanibel

Hope Rising Update #72

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:09:42 GMT

Today's Excitement

Dear Friends,

Today was a day to celebrate! LCEC trucks arrived to install the new meter and energize it so the new HVAC system in the sanctuary can be started up! Then a couple hours later, we passed the City of Sanibel final inspection and we were given the Certificate of Completion; the final step in our permit process which started last May. We are very grateful to Councilwoman Holly Smith, City Manager Dana Souza and all the city and LCEC employees who assisted in these final steps and of course to all the FP workers and their subs for all their hard work these past several months and the Property Restoration Team; the working group was there to receive the good news today.

We are very busy getting the spaces ready for opening weekend starting with our 4th Advent services this Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 8am and 10:30am (livestreamed). Then we will have 3 Christmas Services at 4pm, 8pm (livestreamed) and 10:30am.

Thanks to the volunteer teams who have been washing dishes in the kitchen, putting books on the bookshelf, hanging wreaths and a 100 other details. It is a stunningly beautiful space and we can't wait for all to experience it again for the first time in 15 months!

Bill +

Hope Rising Update #71

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 15:09:31 GMT

Hope Rising Update #70

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 11:04:37 GMT

Race To The Finish Line!

Dear Friends,

We are very close to the finish line and being able to return to our spiritual home! Things are looking good for the first services to be held December 16-17, but we can not say for sure until the work is completed and final inspections are passed. The building is full of workers who start at sunrise and work until sunset and we expressed our gratitude today at noon when the Property Restoration Team, Vestry and Staff hosted all the workers for a quick lunch in The Gathering Place. About 50 workers and staff of FP and their subs enjoyed grilled burgers and hot dogs and several sides and desserts. The President of FP Property Restoration, Steve Glozik is on site daily along with Jason and Dominick who guide the workers in the many details that are being worked on. Keep on praying folks, we are almost there! Enjoy this virtual tour of the progess and all the activity today.

Peace, Bill+

Hope Rising #69

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 13:09:11 GMT

Dear Friends,

Watch the video below, the first video recorded in the restored office!

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #68

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 23:20:20 GMT

Dear Friends,
Please watch the short video above for some exciting news!

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #66

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 22:01:28 GMT

Dear Friends,

I'm pleased to share another video update of the progress being made in our church buildings. Crews from FP Property Restoration are working 6 days a week, under the leadership of Steve G; president, Dominick D., lead foreman and many other hardworking men and women. We are grateful for their dedication and commitment to the project. Work on the office building is almost complete, with flooring, interior doors and trimwork finished. The final steps are the arrival of cabinetry and countertops in the next couple of weeks and the punch list to be completed. Once the staff moves over to the office, the back area will still have a church conference room area, but the rest of the back area will be converted into a staging area for incoming deliveries of items for the main building. The piles of boxes and equipment is starting to pile up as we work through a large schedule of incoming orders and deliveries. Services, meetings and space for our community partners will continue at The Gathering Place as well.

Work continues on the main building with HVAC, electrical, plumbing, IT and sound installation and flooring. I want to remind everyone that this is a very active construction zone managed by FP so we can not have anyone in the fenced in area or the buildings. It is both a safety and a liability issue. We provide these video updates on a regular basis so you can get a first hand look of exactly what is happening in the buildings and appreciate and thank you for your continued cooperation.

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #65

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 22:42:16 GMT

Dear Friends,

We just finished a very meaningful commemoration of the one year anniversary of Hurricane Ian here at The Gathering Place. It's been an emotional day for all of us, so this will be a short Hope Rising Update. The day started at the Lighthouse for a beautiful sunrise ceremony the City put together. Then we went to Sanibel School where Jackie Overton, staff member of Church of the Redeemer Episcopal Church presented Principal Lusk with a check for $55,000 for playground equipment. Redeemer also provided funds for us to purchase all our chairs and tables in The Gathering Place. We are grateful for them and for Jackie being with us today. The 3pm service was filled with powerful reflections, beautiful music and images, prayers and scripture. The video that was shown is linked below and a recording of the service will be available soon. We are especially grateful for the participants, Mayor Richard Johnson, Councilwoman and former mayor Holly Smith, Chamber CEO John Lai, Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer, Mary Miller, Erik Entwistle , Mike Baldwin and Rev. Suzy Post.

May you each have a peaceful and calm night.
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #64

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 09:14:39 GMT

Dear Friends,

I want to share a video update of the remarkable progress that is going on in the main building, the office and the exterior. This is all due to the dedication and tireless efforts of all the workers who brave the heavy traffic 6 days a week and spend from sunrise to sunset on site. We thank FP Restoration for all their work in helping us get back into our spiritual home as soon as is humanly possible.

We are so blessed to have The Gathering Place in the meantime, where daily people are welcomed in to attend worship, gather for church meetings and programs, receive vital services, come to have a cup of coffee, play mahjong, get healthy through attending an exercise class, and tonight a full house is enjoying a delightful musical performance by the Cimarusti Family and Anne Marie. Last Sunday we welcomed 30 children and their parents/grandparents for a wonderful Messy Church. There is truly something here at The Gathering Place for all ages and all interests, where all are welcome and all belong.

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #63

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 12:33:53 GMT

All is Well

Dear Friends,

I just want you to know that the church buildings are fine. We had no water intrusion from above or flooding from below. Apart from some rainwater in the parking lot, the buildings and grounds are great. Hats off to the good folks at FP who did a great job securing the work site. The causeway is open and active. Lots of work trucks coming over this morning. A smaller crew from FP will be working today. Windy, but sunny skies at this point.

Please pray for those being impacted in northern FL. Loving and Gracious God, Be with those waiting to be rescued, bring help to them as soon as possible. Bless those who are rushing to their aid and keep all safe. May your peace, strength and consolation surround all in harm's way.

Peace,
Bill +

A PRAYER FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Almighty God, you lend your strength to all those who are there for us in times of crisis, fear and hurt. You give courage to the first responders who continue to do this important work they are called to do, looking beyond the risk for the sake of those who need your help and protection. We give you thanks for the many ways they give of themselves, their skills, knowledge and help in troubling times. Protect them, o Lord. Extend your shielding hand over them and comfort their hearts when they are tired and heartbroken.

God, we also lift up prayers of thanksgiving and comfort for the families of first responders and all who support them. Give them hope and courage. Surround them with your loving presence and give them peace when their loved ones run toward uncertainty. All this we pray in your name.

— Sarah Swindall, Augsburg University

(Psalm 46: 1-4):

God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth be moved,
and though the mountains be toppled into the depths of the sea;
Though its waters rage and foam,
and though the mountains tremble at its tumult.
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.

Hope Rising Update #62

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 15:16:02 GMT

Dear Friends,

As we prepare for Hurricane Idalia to make landfall north of us, we pray for those in it's path. There are two prayers below that you can use in the coming hours as we hold those that will be most severely impacted in our hearts.

In an abundance of caution, yesterday we packed up everything on our hurricane list and put it in the church bus, which was driven off the island this morning by Chuck Sterrett and parked in a safe location. The Gathering Place is closed today, but a small crew of FP workers is still on site until early afternoon and after doing a walk through, I am confident they have prepared as best as possible for wind and rain on our campus. They spent yesterday securing the buildings and removing all materials that were outside. We will make a determination later today in collaboration with F.I.S.H. staff if The Gathering Place will be open tomorrow for their Resiliency Hub services.

Please be safe and make sure you are comfortable where you are; especially for those who might be in already damaged homes.

Peace,
Bill +

A Prayer for Those Facing a Hurricane

On the Sea of Galilee, even when the disciples began to fear, Jesus showed that he was Lord over the waters by rebuking the storms, so that all would know that even the wind and the waves obey him.

Creator God, we ask you to calm the wind and the waves of the approaching hurricane, and spare those in its path from harm. Help those who are in its way to reach safety. Open our hearts in generosity to all who need help in the coming days.

In all things and in all times, help us to remember that even when life seems dark and stormy, you are in the boat with us, guiding us to safety.

– The Jesuit Church, America Magazine

A Prayer for People Facing Great Uncertainty

God of the present moment, God who in Jesus stills the storm and soothes the frantic heart; bring hope and courage to all as we wait in uncertainty. Bring hope and peace with whatever lies ahead. Bring us courage to endure what cannot be avoided. For your will is health and wholeness; you are God, and we need you.

-Adapted from a New Zealand Prayer Book

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #61

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 22:04:16 GMT

Dear Friends,

After being away for just a week, I am amazed at the progress made in the office and the main building. Drywall is up in many areas of the main building, the deck is over halfway done and the office is painted and ready for trimwork, flooring and doors. There are workers inside and out and we thank them for their continued dedication and efforts, especially in this heat. Enjoy the video update below.

Here at The Gathering Place:
- The office is bustling with staff and visitors Monday-Friday 9am -5pm
- It's Movie Night tonight at 6pm, with Suzy showing Belfast and a discussion afterwards.
- Our services are well attended for summer, held on Saturdays at 5pm and Sundays at 9:30am
-The Small Business Administration (SBA) has representatives here working with people on disaster financial assistance M, W and F 10-am-4pm
- We are the only Cooling Station on the Island right now, open Monday-Friday 10am-5pm with a/c, ice water, liquid iv packets and snacks provided by F.I.S.H.
- Speaking of F.I.S.H.- they are meeting many senior, financial and mental health needs and on Wednesdays have one on one, informal chats and group therapy focusing on hurricane related topics like PTSD, trauma and loss.
- Santiva Islanders (formerly Island Seniors) continues their programming with exercise classes, card games and a coffee bistro for all from 10am-3pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, stop by!
If you are in the area and haven't stopped by yet, please do!

Peace,
Bill+

Restoration Update August 16, 2023

Hope Rising Update #60

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 21:31:29 GMT

Dear Friends,

A quick update as it is another busy week here in The Gathering Place:
-FISH has been distributing backpacks with school supplies
-The Small Business Administration (SBA) has representatives here working with people on disaster financial assistance.
-Today were the first meetings for senior and mental health needs and group therapy focusing on hurricane related topics like PTSD, trauma and loss.
-Project Hope offered an open discussion on post storm trauma, including mental exhaustion, decision making and financial fears.
-On Friday, FISH does a services overview and offers assistance.
- Yesterday Santiva Islanders started their programming with exercise classes, card games and a coffee bistro for all from 10am-3pm, stop by!

-Church Staff is available for meeting and to answer questions. You can reach us via phone or email as well.
-Friday book study is underway, and several meetings are being held in our conference room.
-Our monthly Prayer and Potluck is taking place TONIGHT at 6pm
And of course, services are held Saturdays at 5pm followed by a social and Sundays at 9:30am followed by coffee hour!

I am very proud of all of the effort that has brought us this far and enables us to be back on the island. I am especially pleased that at the amount of community engagement going on. The Gathering Place serves to give healing and hope to our parishioner and island neighbors as we continue to recover and rebuild.

At The Gathering Place This Week: click here for a schedule

In Friday's brief I'll have a video update on the progress in the main building.
Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #59

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 23:13:01 GMT

Dear Friends,

"This is holy ground, we are standing on holy ground for the Lord is present, and where God is, is holy." I sang that opening line from a song that epitomized this past weekend, when we were able to return and stand on the holy ground of St. Michael's on Sanibel and give praise and thanks to our God for leading us home. We aren't back in our main sanctuary yet, but we are surely back on Sanibel and bringing the warmth, welcome and spirit of St. Michael's to so many.

The ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday was spectacular. We had a great turnout of Chamber members, community partners and parishioners. You can watch a video of the ceremony here : We are happy to be helping the entire island community recover by offering space to Santiva Islanders (formerly Island Seniors) and F.I.S.H. In her remarks, Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of F.I.S.H. stated, “One of the things we have not been able to do is case management and offer mental health services on the island and do additional social services and we are able to do that now because of The Gathering Place. They just didn’t think about bringing back St. Michael’s, they looked to the community and said how can they help? After our dry wall distribution in February that happened in this parking lot I got a call from Sue saying what else can we do? I told them that we had been operating in our facility without a/c and she said, “how would you like to come and provide your services here at St.Michael’s?’ and I don’t think she finished her sentence before I said Yes!”

When we sang "All Are Welcome" at the services this past weekend, with almost 200 in attendance at the two services, it reminded us that when we say all are welcome, all are equally valued and loved, we mean it in a very human, humble way. Ian showed us how much we need each other and how important it is in the midst of our struggles to never cease gathering and being caring neighbors to one another. So we hope everyone has the opportunity to walk through the open doors of The Gathering Place.

We will be offering free events for people to simply connect. Our kick off event is a Coffeehouse Music Night TONIGHT July 26 from 6:30pm-8:00pm . The theme is Broadway show tunes and there will be live music, coffee and espresso beverages and treats. Please enter off Dunlop Road.

At The Gathering Place This Week :

Our church office is now open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm . Please enter off Dunlop Road, park in the spots in front of the ark or on the side, and enter by walking up the front ramp. Please do not use the back loading dock door. We have a conference room space that is available for meetings, book studies, etc. To schedule any space in The Gathering Place, please contact Susan Gonzalez.

Vacation Bible School Camp for St. Michael's children, hosted by Holy Innocents Episcopal Church in Valrico and St. Hilary's Church in Fort Myers. Thirty youth and adults are running the camp and doing work projects around the island.. In just the first few days they have helped clean up a parishioner's home, installed the blinds at The Gathering Place, built partitions and stairs at a CHR property, cleaned up yards, and assembled 100 backpacks at F.I.S.H. They are very hard working and motivated volunteers.

F.I.S.H. is partnering with us in creating a Resiliency Hub . See the flyer below for the services they will be providing. All of these services are open to all our parishioners, whether you live on island or off island. You can receive help with FEMA and SBA issues, learn more about disaster financial assistance and participate in several different mental health services including group therapy, 1 on 1 mini sessions, and open discussion on post storm trauma, decision making, mental exhaustion and financial fears.

Tuesday, August 1 we begin our partnership with Santiva Islanders formerly known as Island Seniors. Tuesdays and Thursdays they are hosting a coffee bistro from 10am-3pm, exercise classes, a book club, card and other games, and lunch events. Again, all are welcome to participate and you will find more information on the programs of both groups in this Friday's brief.

It is so joyful to hear the sounds of children at The Gathering Place, to see the determined look on faces helping people they don't know, and the sense of hope that comes with being back on our holy grounds. "This is holy ground, we are standing on holy ground for the Lord is present, and where God is, is holy."

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #58

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:53:02 GMT

Dear Friends,

We are back on Sanibel! The Gathering Place has been officially open since Monday and it has been a very busy couple of days as we moved in over the weekend. In just another extraordinary act of generosity, FP Restoration staff helped us move everything in, including all the chairs and tables that they have stored for us in their warehouse for over a month, they have hung the large cross for us, the large paintings, and we even had the head foreman washing the windows today to make it sparkle for the Ribbon Cutting on Friday.

Tonight is our first event, a Movie Night with a discussion hosted by Rev. Suzy. It starts at 6pm; enter off Dunlop Road and park in the back lot, then walk up the front ramp and come in the front.

Everyone is invited to the Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting this Friday at 9am . It will be a brief ceremony followed by refreshments provided by ECW and held inside The Gathering Place. If you plan to attend please ENTER OFF DUNLOP ROAD and back in the back outside of the fenced in area. The entrance off Periwinkle is for construction traffic only at this time as they work on the roof and areas near the driveway. When you arrive, please come up the front ramp and enter from the front doors, not the loading dock. It will be livestreamed (a link will be sent separately) or recorded.

Our first services back on Sanibel will be this Saturday at 5pm followed by a social, and Sunday at 9:30am followed by coffee hour. The 9:30am service will be livestreamed. We will have parking attendants for both services; please enter off Dunlop Road and they will direct you. There are handicapped spots available in front of the building.

Our church office is now open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm . Please enter off Dunlop Road, park in the spots in front of the ark or on the side, and enter by walking up the front ramp. Please do not use the back loading dock door. We have a conference room space that is available for meetings, book studies, etc. To schedule any space in The Gathering Place, please contact Susan Gonzalez.

Next week we kick things off with a week long camp for St. Michael's children, hosted by Holy Innocents Episcopal Church in Valrico and St. Hilary's Church in Fort Myers. They will be running the camp and doing work projects around the island, including installing our blinds and cleaning up behind the Ark building. Thanks to Jerry Davenport for coordinating the work team.

On Monday we also start our partnership with F.I.S.H. as a Resiliency Hub. See the flyer below for the services they will be providing. All of these services are open to all our parishioners, whether you live on island or off island. You can receive help with FEMA and SBA issues, learn more about disaster financial assistance and participate in several different mental health services including group therapy, 1 on 1 mini sessions, and open discussion on post storm trauma, decision making, mental exhaustion and financial fears.

Tuesday, August 1 we begin our partnership with Santiva Islanders formerly known as Island Seniors. Tuesdays and Thursdays they are hosting a coffee bistro from 10am-3pm, exercise classes, a book club, card and other games, and lunch events. Again, all are welcome to participate and you will find more information on the programs of both groups in this Friday's brief. Thanks to Sue Van Oss for coordinating our community engagement efforts.

Next Wednesday is our first Coffeehouse Music Night from 6:30pm-8:00pm . Enjoy live music, coffee drinks and treats!

Thank you to all the people who have pitched in these past few days to get things ready. From assembling furniture, to cleaning, to organizing and unpacking, it's been a team effort, and it looks beautiful!

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #57

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 22:37:45 GMT

Dear Friends,

I am thrilled to report we are just a few days away from moving into The Gathering Place. The flooring is beautiful and baseboards are being finished. We are happy that Edgardo and Norma will be returning to help clean The Gathering Place for move in and on a weekly basis, yet another return to normalcy. The church office will be set up over the next few days and will return to regular weekday hours from 9am-5pm.

A huge delivery of 600 sheets of drywall arrived today and the FP crew labored all day in the extreme heat to carry them inside and spread them around the main building and office. The next round of inspections for electrical and plumbing are happening this week in the main building, then wiring for a fire system and internet will happen and then drywall begins.

A reminder this is our last weekend at Peace Lutheran. Our first services will be Saturday, July 22 at 5pm followed by a social, and Sunday, July 23 at 9:30am followed by coffee hour. Meetings, activities and programs will be held at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's. Hope continues to rise and rise quickly!

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #56 - Special Edition

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 06:44:39 GMT

Dear Friends,

Usually the Hope Rising Update goes out on Wednesday, but I held off until today so I could share a special delivery that happened two hours ago. Our new church bus arrived at Peace Lutheran and I took it for a quick spin around the parking lot. I wanted you to be a part of its inaugural voyage so watch the video and enjoy.

Tours of the new bus will be held after the 11:30am service this Sunday at Peace.

Thanks to all who contributed to the All Angels Campaign, because of its great success we were able to make purchases like this bus which will provide transportation and connection for many people who otherwise could not participate in our church services and activities.

And more deliveries happened today, an altar, lectern and other items arrived from the Diocese that we will use at The Gathering Place, and the long awaited interior doors arrived for The Gathering Place too! It was a very busy day on the campus filled with workers installing the flat portion of the roof on the main buildings, working on electrical, and painting the interior of The Gathering Place. After the final finishes and flooring next week, we will start to move in and get the place ready for the church office to open and F.I.S.H. to start on Monday July 17. On Wednesday, July 19 we will have our first parish event, a night at the Movies hosted by Rev. Suzy. Our first services will be Saturday July 22 at 5pm followed by a social, and July 23 at 9:30am followed by coffee hour. Alleluia!

Peace,
Bill+

Arrival of the Bus

Hope Rising Update #55

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 23:09:33 GMT

Dear Friends,

As I reflect on this day and what happened nine months ago on September 28, I stand in awe of how far we have come. There is so much to be grateful for and so many to thank. I will let the video below speak the words of gratitude in my heart this day. It contains a tour of the buildings and then a reflection on the past nine months. Hope is indeed rising. Amen. Alleluia.

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward #54

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 07:55:35 GMT

Dear Friends,

I'm excited to share with you this week's video which includes one of the improvements we were able to make to our facilities. We have removed the wall that separated the Parish Hall from the Periwinkle Room to open up the parish hall. We have added sliding doors that will lead out to a new deck area in front. We believe that this will allow for better use of the parish hall, more natural light in that area and tying in the outdoor space to give a more open and welcoming feeling. The video also has a full tour of The Gathering Place which now has electricity and plumbing. Each day brings it nearer to completion.

The Property Restoration Team met this afternoon, as they have been every other week for several months. My continued thanks to them for all their hard work. Thank you to Amy Nowacki, our architect (and choir member and soloist extraordinaire) and Marco Dumont, our project consultant for all their efforts as well. At the meeting today, PRT Chair Chuck Ketteman also shared that we are formalizing what Sue has been doing for quite a while now, being the "second set of eyes on site." She will be the Project Coordinator. She will take care of accepting and signing off on all finishes and contents, working with FP on the daily details, and working closely with Joanne Syversen, Chair of the Contents Committee. That group has countless decisions on contents and finishes and are ramping up their efforts. I will be taking on some of Sue's other responsibilities to enable her to take this on. Marco will sign off on technical aspects of the project and continue to oversee the quality of workmanship and coordinating the HVAC, plumbing, etc. We have a great team working hard and I'm very appreciative of everyone's dedication and passion for this endeavor. I continue to be impressed that we are one of the busiest job sites on Sanibel thanks to the tireless efforts of FP Property Restoration and all of the decision makers at St. Michael's. I also have an exciting announcement regarding the new church bus that you will be seeing in the Friday brief.

Enjoy the video!

Peace,
Bill+

Restoration Update June 21

Hope Rising Update #53

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 21:56:32 GMT

Dear Friends,

The pace has accelerated even more in the past few days on our campus. At The Gathering Place, the plumber is installing water heater, sinks and toilets and electrical fixtures are going in, the A/C team has started work and texturing continues.

At the main building, they are awaiting engineer inspection on the sanctuary floor and then subflooring can begin. Subflooring is almost complete in all the other rooms. Praise the Lord for level floors that are no longer heaved up! Shingles will be going on the roof soon. You can watch a brief video of the progress in both buildings below. I say "brief" because we aren't able to stay long in the main buildings as there is so much work going on and we are aware of the safety issues, but at least you can get a glimpse of all the remarkable progress!

Peace,
Bill+

Hope Rising Update #52

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 07:24:51 GMT

Dear Friends,

It was wonderful to gather today to celebrate the Commencement of Work on our main building at St. Michael's. Thank you to the members of the Restoration Team, Capital Campaign, Vestry and Staff who came out to celebrate. Special thanks to Mayor Richard Johnson, City Manager Dana Souza, Steve Glozik, President of FP Restoration and other members of FP. It would have been wonderful to invite everyone from the congregation to attend but due to limited parking and space that was not possible. However, the service was recorded and you can see it below.

It was another step forward in our rebuilding effort, praise God!

Peace,
Bill+

Commencement of Work Ceremony June 7, 2023

Hope Rising Update #51

Wed, 31 May 2023 07:48:32 GMT

Dear Friends,

Sue and I are taking a few respite days, but I wanted to send a brief update with the good news that all the permits have been approved for the restoration of the main building and there is a tremendous amount of work being done on a daily basis. We are grateful to the men and women of FP Restoration who are hard at work.

This week's video update shows the subfloor removal process which is an important first step of the entire restoration process. An engineer is on site to oversee the entire removal and repairs of the piers/pilings. From the first days of seeing everything covered in muck and mold, to seeing it stripped down, and now being rebuilt; we thank God for getting us this far and guiding us to the day when we will all walk through those doors to a beautifully restored building.

I know everyone is anxious to see what is going on, and we will continue to provide weekly videos and photos so you can follow the progress. As you will see in the video, it's very clear why it is a restricted construction zone area. We only stayed briefly because there was so much activity going on, and we didn't want to hold up any work; once the subfloor is repaired, it will be easier to film updates. A construction fence is also being installed tomorrow.

Reminder: A mailbox is now installed outside the Gathering Place and our PO Box will be closed as of tomorrow. June 1. Please send all church mail to St. Michael & All Angels 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957.

Peace,
Bill+

Video Update May 31, 2023

Hope Rising Update #50 & Campaign Victory

Wed, 24 May 2023 19:24:02 GMT

Dear Friends,

I want to start off with a special message from the All Angels Campaign Co-Chairs:

"As of May 23, we have raised almost $2,355,595 and gathered 213 angel households. This includes $132,000 that was carried over from 2022 as part of the original hurricane relief fund. Thanks to each of you, the light and love of Christ will shine on at St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church for us, our community and for generations to come. What a spiritual legacy we have co- created and will share for all of eternity. None of us would have been able to return to St. Michael’s if all of us had not come together. Together, we all are returning to our shared spiritual home: a home we are now all vested in as one family. While the storm may have forced us to scatter and be displaced, God and the members of St. Michael’s have used this experience for good. We are more united and more grateful than ever to one another and God for this renewed opportunity “to be Jesus”. We might appear to be a tiny little church on Sanibel, but we are mighty and together we raised over $2 million in just 22 days.

We have clearly reached Goal #1 of hitting the $2 million mark. What about Goal #2 of reaching all angels? Since the 213 households that have participated in this campaign is 33 more household families than pledged in last year’s stewardship campaign, we believe we have achieved Goal #2 as well. So we are declaring victory. But if there are angels out there who have not gotten on board yet, we want you to know that even though we have taken off, the boarding door for this 3 year campaign remains open and many important needs remain. So if it is in your heart to help, know we are deeply grateful for each and every angel. Thank you! Hallelujah! Rejoice!"
Ralph Clark and Linda Linsmayer, Co- Chairs on behalf of the All Angels Campaign Committee

It is indeed a time to rejoice and give thanks for all who have contributed in such an amazing way to restore our island home. My thanks and gratitude for every angel. There is so much activity going on at 2304 Periwinkle with a large construction crew of dedicated men and women, engineers and inspectors all working very hard on our behalf. I implore you to please not drive through the property and not try to enter any of the buildings. It is an active construction site and they need to follow safety protocols. Their workers are wearing hard hats, protective footgear and they are experienced in moving around in a construction zone. Every time they need to stop to speak to someone who comes onto the property, it slows down their work. They are putting up Danger- Construction Zone Keep Out signs and I ask that everyone please obey them. We will be sharing many photos and videos of each step of the restoration process and it will be a glorious day when we can all walk in the doors.

In yet another step of our return home, we are having all church mail delivered to our Sanibel address starting June 1. A mailbox is being installed outside the Gathering Place and our PO Box will be closed as of June 1. Please send all church mail to St. Michael & All Angels 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957.

Peace,
Bill+

More Angels are Arriving Daily Making Us Closer & Closer to Our Spiritual Goal of ALL Angels Participation

Together we are accomplishing what none of us could do alone. We have exceeded our $2 million goal for the restoration of our structures and each day angels are delivering financial gifts that will help us replace additional things we need to function fully when we move back home.

Your continued support will go toward non-structural items like a bus, outfitting the kitchen and other rooms, landscaping, music and musical instruments, etc.

Thanks be to God. Thanks be to ALL angels.

All Angels Flight Tracker Dashboard as of 5/23

## Angel Households Participating : 213

$$ Raised : $2,222,795

$$ To Reach Structural Goal : 0

$$ Desired to Be Fully Whole* : TBD

* The $2M All Angels Campaign goal covers the gap to restore our structures. Additional funds, should they be available, would be to replace contents like cabinets, landscaping, etc.

Angel Tracker and Hope Rising Update #49

Wed, 17 May 2023 22:11:42 GMT

Dear Friends,

It is such a great feeling to be in construction mode at St. Michael's! The Gathering Place is rapidly being transformed, with drywall going in and wiring getting done. FP crews are hard at work, and it is hard, hot work they are doing, so please keep them in your prayers. Below is the update for the campaign with a wonderful increase in the past week to help us with replacing so many items. The Voices of Angels video highlights some of our angels sharing their gratitude for the remarkable campaign so far. You will also find photos and a video on the project and starting next week we will do a more in-depth video update each week. Also, coming up there are several important events on the island that are listed below.

Gratefully,
Bill+

More Angels are Arriving Daily Making Us Closer & Closer to

Our Spiritual Goal of ALL Angels Participation

Thanks be to God. Thanks be to ALL angels.

All Angels Flight Tracker Dashboard as of 5/17

## Angel Households Participating : 202

$$ Raised : $2,183, 195

$$ To Reach Structural Goal : 0

$$ Desired to Be Fully Whole* : TBD

* The $2M All Angels Campaign goal covers the gap to restore our structures. Additional funds, should they be available, would be to replace contents like cabinets, landscaping, etc.

All Angels Tracker and Hope Rising Update #48

Thu, 11 May 2023 00:31:09 GMT

All Angels Campaign Achieves Initial Financial Goal!

In just 22 days from the launch of our All Angels Campaign, collectively we have achieved our fund raising campaign goal of $2 million! This will enable us to restore the structures of our shared spiritual home.

The generosity and speed with which we have come together has been nothing short of a miraculous outpouring of our love for one another, our community, and God. How remarkable to see something accomplished that none of us could have ever done alone.

All Angels Flight Tracker Dashboard as of 5/10

## Angel Households Participating : 181

$$ Raised : $2,091,045

$$ To Reach Structural Goal : 0

Structural Progress Highlight: The contract to restore the main buildings was signed yesterday!

$$ Desired to Be Fully Whole* : TBD

* The $2M All Angels Campaign goal covers the gap to restore our structures. Additional funds, should they be available, would be to replace contents like cabinets, landscaping, etc.

Our Second Goal- For ALL Angels To Be A Part Of The Campaign

As you recall we launched this campaign with the spiritual objective of having ALL angels participate in this historic restoration of our shared home. We realize that there are still some of you who have needed to thoughtfully and prayerfully pause before responding.

And we are holding to that goal for two reasons. First we do desire for all to be all. If you are part of St. Michael’s you are equally valued, loved and belong, so actively participating in the restoration will signify you are vested, you are part of creating this historic, spiritual legacy. Your participation spiritually matters to us and we believe it will to you as well.

Provide Our Home with Essentials to Function Fully

Practically speaking, the $2 million will pay for restoring our structures. Below are a few of the things that can be obtained with additional funds:

A Bus: to help those who cannot drive gather with us in person.
Furnishing the kitchen
Landscaping: to create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
Items for the Music Program

Thank You for Heeding the Call to Make All Angels All.

The All Angels Campaign Committee

Voices of Angels- A Few Of Our Flock:

Hope Rising Update #47

Wed, 03 May 2023 10:23:11 GMT

All Angels Flight Tracker:

At last, the realization that we are on our way back to our spiritual home seems within reach! Thank you to every angel who has already participated in the All Angels Campaign, we are indeed on our way back to St. Michael’s on Sanibel.

In anticipation of returning, we asked several members and invite you to ask yourself the question below.

Question of the Week

What spiritual need do you feel will be more fully met by returning to St. Michael’s on Sanibel? Or What are you most looking forward to when you return to services on Sanibel?

Voices of Angels- Answers from a Few in Our Flock:

All Angels Flight Tracker Dashboard as of 5/3

## Angel Households Participating : 120
$$ Raised : $1,798,920
$$ To Reach Structural Goal : $201,080
$$ Desired to Be Fully Whole* : TBD

Structural Progress Highlight: The Gathering Place entrance/new deck and ramp is almost complete!

* The $2M All Angels Campaign goal covers the gap to restore our structures. Additional funds, should they be available, would be to replace contents like cabinets, landscaping, etc.

Structural Sneak Peek of The Week Video:

New Deck on The Gathering Place (Ark Building)

We’re So Close. Please Help Bring Us Home.

There are still funds remaining in the miracle match, so if you want to make sure the impact of your gift is doubled, please join in the All Angels Campaign soon. Every gift, whether big or small, spiritually signifies this is your spiritual home: a home where you truly belong. Hope is rising thanks to each and every angel!

Thank you, the All Angels Campaign Committee

Hope Rising Update #46

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 06:26:13 GMT

Dear Friends,

Hope is rising on many fronts. Our All Angels Campaign is just 10 days old and pledges/donations are coming in. The Campaign Committee met today and is pleased with the progress. Look for an update early next week. All the campaign materials are available on our website, www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/campaign-information All gifts, big or small, are valued, appreciated and help us reach our goal of ALL angels participating.

The Property Restoration Team also met today and repair of the Ark building which will serve as The Gathering Place is moving along at a good pace. The interior framing is done, the subfloor is installed and electrical rough in is happening this week. Some pictures are below of the inside. We will be posting pictures of each step of the restoration of this building and our main buildings so everyone can see the good work being done. Our general contractor FP Restoration is in charge of the building and due to liability issues, no one can enter the building while they are working in it. Also, we don't want to distract them from their important work that we want to get completed as quickly as possible.

We have selected the same general contractor for the main buildings and design plans from our architect Amy Nowacki were finalized and reviewed by the team today. The i's will be dotted and t's crossed on the contract and work will begin in earnest on the main buildings as well. May God continue to guide us in our efforts to rebuild our spiritual home.

Peace,
Bill+

Sanibel Resources :
1. Tonight the City of Sanibel is hosting a Townhall Workshop: Guidance on Restoring your Sanibel Home tonight from 5:30-7:30pm, you can watch it on the City of Sanibel Facebook page live or it will be recorded to watch later.

2.Tomorrow- Learn About Upcoming Prescribed Burns & Wildfire Safety The Sanibel Prescribed Fire Task Force invites the public to an informational meeting regarding prescribed burns and "firewise" principles on Thursday, April 27, at 5:30 p.m. at the Visitor & Education Center at the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. "Attending this year's public meeting is more important than ever due to the habitat changes from Hurricane Ian and the mass cleanup efforts being conducted on the island," said SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Manager Chris Lechowicz. "Attendees will be provided with the latest information on any upcoming controlled burns, and strategies to protect your homes and businesses from wildfire."

3. Lee County Recovery Task Force Hosts Resilient Lee Town Hall Meeting from 6-8pm on May 1 at BIG ARTS. The purpose of convening this regional Task Force is to collaborate as a community, combining efforts to recover and rebuild in a resilient manner. The Task Force is seeking input from residents, business owners, and non-profits regarding the recovery-planning process for the Lee County area. The two-hour meeting is part of a series of Town Hall Meetings, which include a facilitated discussion that all are welcome and encouraged to attend. View the schedule of events HERE . In addition to the Town Hall Meetings, the Task Force has offered a survey for participants to provide further input. Take the survey HERE .

Hope Rising Update #45

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 08:24:54 GMT

Dear Friends,

We had a wonderful launch of the All Angels Campaign To Restore Our Spiritual Home last Sunday. I was pleasantly surprised to see the fellowship hall full of people who were enthusiastic about learning the latest on the restoration process and how all of us can play a role in this important effort.

Chuck Ketteman, chair of the Property Restoration Team, gave a report that things are moving quickly now and mentioned many “good news” items. The permit from the city has been granted for The Gathering Place and there is lots of activity by our contractor. The floors have been removed and the subfloor has been replaced. We are strategically expediting the restoration of the space previously used as Noah’s Ark Thrift Store and re-purposing it to be used temporarily as The Gathering place to serve not only our needs for worship, office and meeting space, but for non-profits on our island.

Repairing that building now will also allow it to return quickly as Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop once we can move back into our main building. Somehow it seems apropos that the Ark would become a lifeboat that keeps us all afloat, bringing us all back to safety and God’s promises that we are all valued, beloved and belong.

After many hours of reviewing bids, we have selected a general contractor for the main building restoration project. We were able to get the project bid under the 50% damage rule so that means a shorter time frame for restoration. It is now anticipated to be completed around the end of the first quarter of 2024.

We are trying to do everything we can to make our buildings more resilient A new roof up to current code will also provide more resiliency and better energy efficiency. Improving accessibility is also a priority and we are taking steps to do that in the plan. We are planning for a new metal bell tower which will better withstand storms. The new a/c system in the sanctuary which we were in the process of installing will also be included in the restoration.

Ralph Clark and Linda Linsmayer, co-chairs of the All Angels Campaign then kicked off the campaign to raise approximately $2 million dollars needed to mind the gap between insurance reimbursement and the cost of restoring the structures. Even before the restoration campaign was formally announced, members of the church enthusiastically rose up quickly and generously. One anonymous donor felt so strongly about the importance St. Michael’s has on Sanibel they have offered to match the first $500,000 in donations. Thanks to some swift acting angels we launched this campaign already having received $900,000, so to now have a match that will double the impact of the next $500,000 is a true blessing.

You should be receiving in the mail an envelope with a letter from me, more information, FAQ’s, a pledge card and a stamped return envelope. These materials are also available on our website, www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/campaign-information . I encourage you to prayerfully discern your situation and then return the card. All gifts, big or small are valued, appreciated and help us reach our goal of ALL angels participating. To learn more, go to www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/donate . May God continue to guide us in our efforts to rebuild our spiritual home.

Peace,
Bill+

Sanibel Resources:
1. SWFL Solar Co-op application deadline is April 30. The solar co-op is free to join and joining the co-op is not a commitment to purchase panels. Florida Solar Design Group will provide each co-op member with an individualized proposal based on the group rate. By going solar as a group and choosing a single installer, members can save on the cost of going solar and have the support of fellow group members and solar experts at Solar United Neighbors.This co-op, open to businesses and residents in Lee and Collier Counties, is scheduled to close to new members on April 30.
• Join the co-op before it’s too late! Individuals interested in going solar can sign up for the co-op at solarunitedneighbors.org/swfl .
• Watch a free, on-demand Florida Solar 101 webinar here to learn more about solar and the co-op process.
FYi- We have signed up St. Michael's to be part of the coop so we can get more information on the possibility of solar power in the future on our campus.

2.This morning the City of Sanibel sent out a lengthy email on "Guidance on Restoring Your Sanibel Home" . It had a wealth of good information. If you haven't signed up for City updates, please go to mysanibel.com to do so. The City of Sanibel staff will host a community workshop to present information and answer citizen questions on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at BIG Arts. Please watch for future news releases that will provide more information on this workshop.

3. Sea Turtle Nesting Season is underway! A s we progress into the season, please keep these few tips in mind:

Pick up trash you find on the beach or brought with you
Be conscious of light exposure (no flashlights, close your curtains/blinds, turn off porch/outdoor lighting after dark, eliminate flash photography, etc.)
Fill in holes, knock down sandcastles, and remove all beach furniture (umbrellas, chairs, volleyball nets, tents, etc.)

Hope Rising Update #44

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 11:33:31 GMT

Dear Friends,

We are in the midst of Holy Week, a time when we remember the sacrifice Jesus made for all and the hope His Resurrection brings to all. We will have a zoom Maundy Thursday Service at 6pm tomorrow, a Good Friday service at noon at Peace, and then Easter Services at 8:30am at the Sanibel Rec Center and 11:30am at Peace.

We are entering a resurrection season for St. Michael's as well. Initial prep work is being done as the repair permit moves through the city process so The Gathering Place can open as quickly as possible for on island worship, office space and community use. We are expecting proposals on Friday from two bidders for the restoration of our main building and the Restoration Team will be reviewing and then meeting with the companies next week.

We will have an update to give to everyone on Sunday, April 16 after the service as we take flight and launch the All Angels Campaign to Restore our Spiritual Home . Without you, “All” can never be all, so we hope you plan to come in person if you are in town, or attend via zoom. It will be a time to rejoice as our spirits and sanctuary are being made whole. You will hear the vision, timing and budget for the project and how you can be part of history and help reclaim our spiritual home & belong to a greater purpose. Join us in person or in spirit by Zoom. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87213548353

P e ace,
Bill+

Sanibel Information:
1. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge Reopened yesterday ! Wildlife trail and Visitor center open, 7am-5pm. Closed on Fridays.
2. April 8 Community Egg Hunt at the Sanibel School Pavilion St. Michael's will be providing a craft activity for the kids.
3. April 11 6-8pm at BIG ARTS The second San Cap Citizens for a Resilient Future panel

Hope Rising Update #43

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 19:48:38 GMT

Dear Friends,

Where were you six months ago today? We were hunkered down in a sturdy condominium near HealthPark hospital watching the wind and rains ravage the trees behind our unit and praying for all who were in harms way and hoping everything would be okay. Now six months later, evidence of the destruction still surrounds us but there are many signs of hope. Sue and I have been the recipients of kindness in many forms from a cold bottle of water to a gracious host who let us stay in that condo for several months. As a church we have been embraced by the good people of Peace Lutheran and have received countless messages of support, prayers and offers of assistance. Many people within our parish have stepped forward to assist with all of the many tasks involved with insurance, rebuilding and fundraising. Our community has witnessed neighbors helping neighbors in countless ways. Much progress has been made, yet there is still more work to be done but with the guidance of God's steady hand we will come to the day when we can return to our beloved spiritual home.

Holy and Mighty God,
you who spun the planets into motion
and who moved over the waters of chaos at creation,
we remember today how the waters of Hurricane Ian overwhelmed our cities 6 months ago.
We remember and we lift up to you the lives lost during the hurricane and in the days and weeks that followed,
but also the countless more lives who were displaced and scattered,
those who were injured and traumatized
and still bear the scars left by the storm.
Bind up these wounds and bring your healing touch as we grieve –
the dead, the lost, and the vestiges of our cultures and heritage that exist now only in memory and story.

God of resurrection,
our story reminds us of your greater story for all of creation –
that you never leave us in the depths of the tomb,
desperate and without hope,
but are continually raising us to new life,
one of a future and of abundance.

We thank you for your presence and signs of hope;
in the resiliency and grit of the people of SW Florida
in the families that have returned and rebuilt their lives
in the many volunteers who showed up day after day, reminding us that we had not been abandoned.

We thank you for the mysterious ways your will is worked out
even in the darkest of circumstances,
and we are grateful for ways the storm changed us for the better,
showing us what love of neighbor looks like in action,
and reminding us always to never take for granted your good gifts.

God of peace and grace,
continue to guide and guard us into the future you have planned for us.
Help us to remember to always care for one another
as siblings, friends, and neighbors,
Help us to follow in your ways
to build a better city and a better society where we all can thrive,
regardless of race, class, gender, or religion.
Help us to care for the earth you have given us,
to be better stewards of the land and waters,
and to preserve the delicate balance between our human activity and the wild nature of creation.
We pray all these things, in the name of your Son, our Savior, who lives and reigns with you, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Adapted from a prayer by the Reverend Sarah Chancellor-Watson on the 15th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina

Peace,
Bill+

Sanibel Information :
1. TODAY March 28 from 3-5pm visit the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village's celebratory opening and the new Sanibel lighthouse exhibit.
2. TOMORROW March 29 4-7pm We're Still Standing Celebration of the 95th Anniversary of the Community House.
3. THURSDAY March 30 On the Table Conversations during the day, with several locations on Sanibel and Fort Myers https://onthetableswfl.com/ and Volunteer Expo 4-7:30pm - hosted by the Charitable Foundation of the Islands will be held on March 30 from 4:00pm-7:30pm at BIG ARTS . Go to www.mycfi.org to learn more and register for this great evening.
4. April 4 Ding Darling Reopens! Wildlife trail and Visitor center open, 7am-5pm with a ribbon cutting at 9:30am
5. April 8 Community Egg Hunt at the Sanibel School Pavilion St. Michael's will be providing a craft activity for the kids.
6. April 9 Easter Sunday - 8:30am Easter Service for the Island at the Sanibel Rec Center, hosted by St. Michael's. Our main service will be at 11:30am at Peace Lutheran.

Mail delivery has resumed on Sanibel if you have a mailbox installed at your residence and do not have an active forwarding address request.

F.I.S.H. could use help with Easter tasks; picking up supplies, preparing bunny baskets and distributing items from their Sanibel location. If you can help please contact Kim at 239-472-4775 or kim@fishofsancap.org

Hope Rising Update #42

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 08:40:14 GMT

Dear Friends,

The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's is coming to life with the next stage of permitting with the City of Sanibel underway. If you missed last Friday's video message that explained the purpose and vision of The Gathering Place, you can watch it here, https://youtu.be/O1YZMzlB0Ss .

The Property Restoration Team met this morning and discussed The Gathering Place restoration status and our main facilities restoration status. There are a myriad of details involved in this process and I am deeply grateful to the members of the team who spend many hours working it.

With each passing day, hope is rising on the island. There is a joyful spirit of celebration when each business reopens, when a new roof goes on a house, and when a resident returns if only for a short time to check on progress of their home. Even the resumption of yard waste being collected at the curb was cause for a major celebration in our neighborhood! There are several upcoming events that will bring the community even closer together; they are listed below, but I want to highlight two happening on the same day next week.

Get Inspired! SanCap Volunteer Expo hosted by the Charitable Foundation of the Islands will be held on March 30 from 4:00pm-7:30pm at BIG ARTS. The event is designed for SW FL residents to learn how they can assist Sanibel and Captive recover and rebuild from Ian. CFI's Leadership Class created the event to bring together several non profit organizations to share volunteer opportunities are are available and it will include an inspirational discussion by Porter and Chauncey Goss at 5pm. St. Michael's will be at the resource table to share ways people can volunteer at The Gathering Place and with Angels on the Go. Go to www.mycfi.org to learn more and register for this great evening. I encourage those that can to attend and see how you can use your time and talents for the recovery efforts.

Also on March 30 On the Table SWFL is hosting community conversations for thousands of people gathering in small groups to help solve our region's major challenges. Anyone can host or join in the conversations. There are several times and locations on Sanibel, Fort Myers and the surrounding area. You can check it out at www.onthetableswfl.com . The information discussed during On the Table will be captured in a survey that will be conducted in conjunction with Florida Gulf Coast University that will identify region wide social priorities for the sponsoring foundations to work on.

Finally, Peter Blaze Corcoran is looking for a place to stay during the month of April. If you know of a place or be willing to host him in your home, please let me know.

Peace,
Bill+

Sanibel Information :

1. The Breeze Newspapers is preparing a book marking Hurricane Ian and is in the process of collecting photos of the storm and its aftermath (the two-three weeks following). The book will include Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel-Captiva, Pine Island-Matlacha, Cape Coral and North Fort Myers. They are seeking contributions so as to make sure the book is reflective of not only hurricane damage, but of the people “who weathered the storm” and came through it. Aerials/drone/from the water shots are especially welcome as are photos of crews and teams in action during, and following the storm, as well as damage shots taken for assessment purposes. Also especially welcome are pictures of people performing immediate recovery tasks and/or assisting those affected. Source credits will, of course, be provided. Photo submissions can be emailed to Michael Pistella at mpistella@breezenewspapers.com .

2. There is a Flood Event Viewer that will allow you to see the exact flood levels for a specific address; it can be found at https://stn.wim.usgs.gov/FEV/#2022Ian

3. Conceptual plans for the repair of the Causeway have been released,but according to Jennifer Dorning, Community Outreach Manager with the Florida Department of Transportation they are still working on emergency repairs, mostly the “armoring” that you see with the sheet pile installation and the large boulders that are being placed to help protect the roadway. Permits for the permanent repairs are with the agencies under review. They continue working on refining the design to make the Causeway more resilient, while weighing costs, and maintaining the Causeway Islands Park. Photos are attached below.

Upcoming Sanibel Events :
1. March 28 from 3-5pm visit the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village's celebratory opening and the new Sanibel lighthouse exhibit.
2. March 29 4-7pm We're Still Standing Celebration of the 95th Anniversary of the Community House.
3. March 30 On the Table Conversations during the day and Volunteer Expo 4-7:30pm - see above
4. April 4 Ding Darling Reopens! Wildlife trail and Visitor center open, 7am-5pm with a ribbon cutting at 9:30am
5. April 8 Community Egg Hunt at the Sanibel School Pavilion St. Michael's will be providing a craft activity for the kids.
6. April 9 Easter Sunday - 8:30am Easter Service for the Island at the Sanibel Rec Center, hosted by St. Michael's.

Hope Rising Update #41

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 14:35:40 GMT

Dear Friends,

Be sure to watch tomorrow's Friday message that will come via email and be posted on our website. It was filmed inside the Noah's Ark building which is now being called The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's, until it is returned to being our beloved Thrift Shop when we move back into the main building. Some exciting news about the progress and how The Gathering Place will be used to support the entire island community is contained in the video. Things are rolling and there is activity at the site.

The structural engineer will be presenting options for repairing the floors of the main building and the two bidding companies will present us with the costs for the floor repair options. Once we select a company, they are ready to submit the materials needed for the permit to the City of Sanibel and we will be on our way to restoration.

Our Hope Rising event was a phenomenal success last Wednesday, with hundreds of people viewing and listening to amazing works of art, storytelling, poetry and music that inspired and uplifted. You can relive Hope Rising by checking out our new webpage https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/hope-rising . Thanks to the committee and all the volunteers who made it such a special evening for the community. There are several community opportunities coming up on our island; they are listed below. Happy St. Patrick's Day tomorrow!

Peace,
Bill+

Upcoming Sanibel Events :
1.Tomorrow, March 17 St Patrick's Day Lunch of Corned Beef and Cabbage 12-2pm at The Sanibel Community House.
2. March 28 from 3-5pm visit the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village's celebratory opening and the new Sanibel lighthouse exhibit.
3. March 29 4-7pm We're Still Standing Celebration of the 95th Anniversary of the Community House.
4. March 30 San Cap Volunteer Expo 4-7:30pm at Big Arts. St. Michael's will be at the resource table with ways community members can help with work projects and The Gathering Place. Register to attend here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sancap-volunteer-expo-tickets-530586497497
5. April 4 Ding Darling Reopens! Wildlife trail and Visitor center open, 7am-5pm with a ribbon cutting at 9:30am
6. April 8 Community Egg Hunt at the Sanibel School Pavilion St. Michael's will be providing a craft activity for the kids.
7. April 9 Easter Sunday - 8:30am Easter Service for the Island at the Sanibel Rec Center, hosted by St. Michael's.

St. Michael's Hope Rising Update #40

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 00:25:50 GMT

Dear Friends,

A lot is happening this week. Tomorrow is our big Hope Rising Event at the Rec Center from 6:30pm-8:00pm . I encourage you to stop by and wander through the rooms displaying inspiring art work and live performances by musicians, poets, and short story tellers. Over 1,000 homemade cookies have been made, so if you have a sweet tooth, this is the place to be!

I am thrilled to announce St. Michael's will have an Easter Service on Sanibel! We have secured the Sanibel Rec Center large meeting room, to have an 8:30am Easter Sunday Service on Sanibel on April 9 . We will also have the 11:30am Easter Sunday service at Peace . We thank the Rec Center staff for coming in on a holiday to allow those on the island to gather together and celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord. We see this as an opportunity to reach out to island residents and offer an inclusive, welcoming worship experience that inspires and gives hope.

Work has begun to repair the Noah's Ark building . As you can see from the photos below, they are removing the many layers of flooring (5 to be exact) and doing more mold mitigation from the past few months. As soon as the city grants the permit, the roof and other parts of the project will get underway. This gathering space will serve as a place for additional worship services, starting with a 5pm Saturday service and social, offices for our staff and a place for the island community to gather. We will continue to have our 11:30am Sunday service at Peace Church as well as meetings and activities at Peace. The restored Ark will give us an on-island presence until the main facility is completed.

Yesterday I was honored to receive a check for $12,000 from the Church of the Redeemer Hurricane Relief Fund . Jackie Overton, Youth Minister at Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota presented the check and has been meeting with us to discuss other ways they can be of assistance, more to come on that in the near future. The funds will be used to furnish the new gathering space and to help us provide support for the island community at our "community care center." We are greatly appreciative of our fellow Episcopal churches reaching out and providing support.

The Property Restoration Team met today and most of the meeting centered on the main building. Additional portions of the floors were opened up to assist the structural engineer in making his final determination on how to repair the compromised floors. We have engaged a second private appraisal company to be sure we are maximizing the value of the main building. Members of the team also met with a second restoration company that will be bidding on the project. Once the floor situation is decided the bids can be finalized, a company chosen and the next steps taken. The goal is to have a decision in hand hopefully by the end of the month, but there are many moving parts to the process.

Peace,
Bill+

Sanibel Resources:
1. As of yesterday, two more beach areas have opened.

Bowman’s Beach Park, 1700 Bowman’s Beach Road (220 parking spaces)
Gulf Side City Park, 2001 Algiers Lane (46 parking spaces) This is in addition to:
Blind Pass Beach Park, 6497 Sanibel-Captiva Road (29 parking spaces)
Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park (Trost Parking), 205 Tarpon Bay Road (76 parking spaces)

2.The City of Sanibel also opened the Sanibel Boat Ramp and boat/trailer parking on March 6, 2023. The boat ramp is located at 888 Sextant Drive (39 boat trailer parking spaces). Please review the following information closely as the rules for use of the Sanibel Boat Ramp have changed:

The boat ramp will be open to permit holders only on weekends and Holidays.
On weekdays it is open to the public (non-permit holders) for a $40 daily fee.
There is no beach access at the Sanibel Boat Ramp at this time.
Commercial use of the boat ramp is prohibited.
Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $250.

3. F.I.S.H. food pantry on the island is now open Monday-Friday 9am-3pm.

4. The Captiva Civic Association will host "Voices of the Storm: Writing your Story in the Aftermath of Hurricane Ian" on March 14 at 10am at the Captive Civic Center. Participants will learn how to process their experiences through writing. to make a reservation visit https://ccacaptiva.org

5.With the ci t y of Sanibel, Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce and others, the new SanCap Citizens for a Resilient Future hopes to address concerns in a two-part community meeting series. The first event, “Emerging from Hurricane Ian: Stronger & More Resilient,” will be held on March 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at BIG ARTS on Sanibel. It will also be live-streamed on the city’s Facebook page. The free event will focus on sharing community stories and collecting feedback to guide a citizen-led planning effort focused on building greater resiliency for the future. Panelists will share their stories as residents and business owners, along with their perspectives on the work that lies ahead for the community in addressing its short- and long- term needs. Sanibel’s first mayor and keynote speaker Porter Goss will lead the discussion, while City Councilmember John Henshaw will moderate.

Hope Rising Update #39

Sat, 25 Feb 2023 13:51:14 GMT

Dear Friends,

Hope is, indeed, rising. I want to let you know that I signed the contract to begin repairs on the church building that houses Noah's Ark Thrift Shop yesterday afternoon. My heart felt lighter in my chest. This is the first step of the rebuilding phase of our process, and I am really pleased. Many thanks to the Property Restoration Team, vestry and everyone who has contributed to bringing us to this point. The next step is securing the permit, but some preparation work can begin immediately, so you might see activity at the Ark soon.

Once the repairs are completed, which is estimated to be about 8 weeks, the Ark will serve as a space for worship, meetings, offices and community engagement. We will continue to gather at Peace Church . The 11:30 Sunday service will continue to be at Peace. We will continue to have meetings and activities at Peace. The restored Ark will give us an on-island presence until the main facility is completed.

Thank you for your prayers, patience and support.
Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #38

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 22:23:03 GMT

Dear Friends,

Welcome to our renamed restoration updates: Hope Rising. In the first days after the Hurricane, we called them Hurricane Updates, then quickly moved to Moving Forward Updates as we wanted to focus not on the event itself, but the process of recovering from it. Today, we rename it for the final time. It fits with our recent theme of the parish retreat and with our upcoming art event- Hope Rising, as it truly is a time of hope rising for the St. Michael's community.

Last Sunday we had a very meaningful service commemorating the 60th anniversary of St. Michael's being racially integrated. I encourage you to watch the special message from our Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and watch the service if you were unable to attend. It had beautiful music, prayers, scriptures and a special reflection from Don Adams entitled “St. Michael’s 1962-2022: Inclusiveness Established, Nourished, Upheld.” Don's talk begins at 33:45 minutes into the service.

Then we had our Annual Meeting which started off with a 2022 Year in Review video , which made us all realize that 2022 was more than just the hurricane in the life of St. Michael's. Chuck Ketteman, chair of the Property Restoration Team and I gave information on the status of the buildings. The whole meeting was recorded and can be seen here .

Within the next few days, after being reviewed by our chancellor, I anticipate signing the contract for FP Restoration Company to repair the Noah's Ark structure, allowing them to start work in a couple weeks. Once repaired it will serve as temporary worship space for services IN ADDITION to our main service at Peace Lutheran. It will also include office space and could be used for community engagement events. I want to reiterate that we will continue to reside at Peace Lutheran for our Sunday morning service, and other meetings and gatherings. We will be able to use the space at St. Michael's for services at other times and days, for our staff to work together, and to invite the community in.

Having Ashes on the Go today in the front of St. Michael's solidified the importance of us having a presence on the island. There was a steady stream of cars, bikes and walkers who came up to receive a moment of blessing and words of encouragement. It was so wonderful to see the parking lot with cars and people standing around conversing with each other. As she walked up, one woman remarked; "this was an answer to my prayers." and another said, "this is what I needed most today." We will be thinking creatively of how we can use our outdoor space and this temporary indoor space to reach out to the island community and those searching for a spiritual home. If you have any ideas, please let Sue who heads up our community engagement efforts or myself know.

The structural engineer will be on site tomorrow to further assess the floor issues throughout the main building and we hope to have some answers in the coming weeks so we can determine the next steps with those buildings. There is always hope, we can find it all around us. In the faces of those we encounter, the warm embrace of a loved one, the voice of a stranger, the whisper of God. Hope rising indeed.
Peace,
Bill+

Sanibel Resources :

Highlights from yesterday's City of Sanibel Hurricane Update

Debris Removal Extension – February 20 was to be the last day to put debris to the curb, but after discussion with FDEM (who is paying for the removal), the time is extended to March 1 . March 29 is the last day that Crowder Gulf can pickup debris. Waste Management will begin their regular weekly vegetation pick-upon March 13 but will be restricted to the prior maximum weight requirements, bundling, in paper bags. etc
Those still needing help getting debris removed (whether residential or commercial) contact www.IanDebrisCleanUp.com (This is a state program & different contractor from Crowder Gulf).

City Council Election – is Tuesday, March 7. Both precincts are available for in-person voting at the Rec Center that day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Also voters may request absentee ballots (up to 2/25). By Executive Order by Gov DeSantis, ballots also may be forwarded to temporary addresses.

Red Tide - Lee County issued alert that Turner Beach (Captiva) & Sanibel Beaches (Blind Pass & Lighthouse) have evidence of red tide. Go to www.mySanibel.com to sign up or read the full new releases.

Building & Planning Depts – remain in temporary location at 6200 Whiskey Creek Dr, Ft Myers, if you need to visit them in person. Their phone numbers & email addresses on City website still apply. All other departments are back working on the island.

Lighthouse – getting closer to relighting, working with Coast Guard installing LED light & contractor.

Community Park & Playground – reopened today. Thanks to volunteers who helped in cleanup.

Beach Parking Facilities – Tarpon Beach & Blind Pass lots reopened 2/4. The next target date goal is 3/6 for Gulfside City Park, Bowman’s Beach, & City Boat Ramp (not beach area). Boat ramp area still being shared with contractor that is cleaning up waterways/canals).

Causeway Traffic – Steady increase, many contractors. ~5,500 vehicles coming across daily. Getting on the island in the morning and off in the evening is like a normal high season day!

Site Work & Landscape Restoration - Natural Resources Director Holly Milbrandt asks that if you are in doubt with what to plant to call them, 472-3700. Permits are required for any mangrove work, or in beach dune area, or on vacant parcels. Also 75% native vegetation is required (that means 75% trees, shrubs, ground cover). They have noticed many pitch apples being used as hedges (these plants are not native). Also planting not allowed in City right-of-way. Sod is limited to 20% of total area or 4,000 sq. ft. whichever is less. Mulch is not acceptable as a long-term solution to ground cover. Also be aware that shell, rock, & gravel may be considered developed area so watch out for coverage limits. Regarding the muck sediment deposits from the storm, use of heavy equipment is limited to those with development permits. SCCF’s Beach Planting Guide is recommended, Get it at www.SCCF.org . It includes documentation on plants that did well after the storm.

FEMA Property Value Letters - City Manager Souza provided summary of letters City received February 14 letter from FEMA that disputed several area jurisdictions including Sanibel using County Tax Appraiser structure values for determining 50% rule for permits. It’s important for Sanibel to have FEMA blessing to continue getting our 25% reduction on flood insurance rates. 2 days later FEMA announced they were going to come & review files (common audit practice). Friday – conference call between the jurisdictions (Bonita, Ft Myers, Cape Coral, Sanibel), County Tax Appraiser (Matt Caldwell) & FEMA reps (in Georgia). It is expected that maybe FEMA didn’t understand the local Save Our Homes exemption with Homesteading. Matt explained that thoroughly during this conference call. Sat – received another letter from FEMA that they understood & that Sanibel may continue using either the LeePA letter structure values or private appraisal.

Thanks to Sanibel Susan (Andrews) for the summary of the meeting .

Repeated information from our update last week :

- Wander Map - Islanders and visitors to island businesses back in operation after Hurricane Ian has gone live on the Wander: Maps & Navigation app and website. Users can download the local app onto their smart device from the Apple App Store, Google Play, or access it online at tinyurl.com/sancapwandermap .
“We have literally put the status of Sanibel and Captiva businesses at your fingertips – whether they’ve reopened on-island or elsewhere such as Bell Tower,” said John Lai, chamber president and chief executive officer. “We have the great flexibility to make changes within minutes when we learn of a new business reopening, a change in hours, traffic glitches due to clean-up operations, and other new information in this ever-shifting post-hurricane world.”

- Rebuilding for Resilience: A Guide to Incentives is a booklet by SCCF with many ideas to help in the rebuilding process.

- Post Hurricane-Ian Replanting Guide - also produced by SCCF, this is a helpful resource for those intending to replant in their yards.

- City of Sanibel Permitting Process - For those who are entering or in the middle of the permitting process, you can check the status of your permits through this link to the city's permit porta l. Click on "search public records" and then enter your street address in the search box that appears.

- Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander - miss reading the local newspaper? It is available online using this link .

- Sanibel Public Library - Did you know you can now borrow tools from the library, a Dell laptop or mac computer, a mobile wifi hot spot, a GoPro camera, or reserve a meeting space? Card holders can do this and much more from 10am-3pm on weekdays. Find a detailed list here.

- Tell Your Story - Ken Burgener will be videorecording people telling their stories of staying on Sanibel/Captiva during Hurricane Ian. He will be recording at the Library's east side living room area (near the study rooms) on Thursday, February 23 starting at 10 am. Please contact Ken for more info: carefreebirding@aol.com 1-954-766-2919

Moving Forward Update #37

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 20:44:17 GMT

Dear Friends,

Bishop Brian and Staci departed today after spending the past two weeks among us. They are a great support to Sue and I and had several opportunities to be with many of you to hear your stories, participate in community clean up projects and lead a wonderful afternoon of reflection last Sunday. Last night's zoom sharing session was a meaningful way to end their visit.

This morning, members of the Property Restoration Team met with representatives from FP to go over the final estimate for repairs on the Ark. Once repaired it will serve as a temporary worship space, in addition to our main service at Peace Lutheran, office space and a place for community engagement events. Work could begin in a couple of weeks and be completed in a couple months.

I'll share more details about the main church buildings at the annual meeting this Sunday following the 11:30am service in the Fellowship Hall at Peace Lutheran. The meeting will also be available via zoom webinar for those unable to attend in person. The link will be available in tomorrow's Friday brief.

Peace,
Bill+

Sanibel Resources:

- Wander Map - Islanders and visitors to island businesses back in operation after Hurricane Ian has gone live on the Wander: Maps & Navigation app and website. Users can download the local app onto their smart device from the Apple App Store, Google Play, or access it online at tinyurl.com/sancapwandermap .
“We have literally put the status of Sanibel and Captiva businesses at your fingertips – whether they’ve reopened on-island or elsewhere such as Bell Tower,” said John Lai, chamber president and chief executive officer. “We have the great flexibility to make changes within minutes when we learn of a new business reopening, a change in hours, traffic glitches due to clean-up operations, and other new information in this ever-shifting post-hurricane world.”

- Rebuilding for Resilience : A Guide to Incentives is a booklet by SCCF with many ideas to help in the rebuilding process.

- Post Hurricane-Ian Replanting Guide - also produced by SCCF, this is a helpful resource for those intending to replant in their yards.

- City of Sanibel Permitting Process - For those who are entering or in the middle of the permitting process, you can check the status of your permits through this link to the city's permit porta l . Click on "search public records" and then enter your street address in the search box that appears.

- Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander - miss reading the local newspaper? It is available online using this link .

- Sanibel Public Library - Did you know you can now borrow tools from the library, a Dell laptop or mac computer, a mobile wifi hot spot, a GoPro camera, or reserve a meeting space? Card holders can do this and much more from 10am-3pm on weekdays. Find a detailed list here.

- Tell Your Story - Ken Burgener will be video recording people telling their stories of staying on Sanibel/Captiva during Hurricane Ian. He will be recording at the Library's east side living room area (near the study rooms) on Thursday, February 23 starting at 10 am. Please contact Ken for more info: carefreebirding@aol.com 1-954-766-2919

A reminder that February 20 is the last day that debris can be placed in the right of way by your Sanibel residence and be picked up.

Reminder: PLEASE SEND MAIL TO OUR PO BOX:
St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #420
Fort Myers, FL 33908

Moving Forward Update #36

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 08:13:15 GMT

The cross is now facing out towards the street.

Dear Friends,

It was marvelous yesterday to see the parking lot of St. Michael's bustling with activity as we hosted F.I.S.H.'s distribution of 2179 pieces of drywall, buckets of compound, nails, tape, masks and even mattresses in collaboration with Rotary. Many volunteers spent the day directing people to the pick up and delivery lines, using their own trucks and trailers to deliver drywall to island residents and just listening to their stories as they waited to pick up their items. We were happy to participate and lend our facility to this wonderful island outreach. As the island continues in it's recovery, I anticipate several more opportunities like this, and having a presence on the island will allow St. Michael's to be a part of it all.

Right now we have shifted our thinking from renting a temporary structure to considering the Noah's Ark building as the location for our temporary use. We would make essential repairs so the Ark could serve as a temporary structure for worship, office space and community engagement. This will eliminate the costs of renting a temporary structure and would be the most efficient approach to restarting services and activities at our island home, in addition to continuing services at Peace Lutheran.

The Property Restoration Team is hard at work with many meetings and communications with several parties. We hope to have more details on our restoration plan for the Annual Meeting on Sunday, February 19. Stay tuned.

Peace,
Bill+

A reminder that February 20 is the last day that debris can be placed in the right of way by your Sanibel residence and be picked u p.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Reminder: PLEASE SEND MAIL TO OUR PO BOX:
St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #420
Fort Myers, FL 33908

Moving Forward Update #35

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 02:02:08 GMT

Dear Friends,

On Monday the bells, cross and remaining pieces of the wood bell tower were removed from the porch roof of the building. Thank you to Ralph Clark for taking on this project and coordinating the effort. With the equipment and expertise of Russ and the kind help of Billy Kirkland and his staff of Billy's Bikes, we watched as they carefully strapped and then lifted the cross and each bell off the roof and gently placed them on pallets and into a waiting truck. The largest bell was 500 pounds, wiring had to be cut and pieces of wood sawed apart so it was no small feat. The bells will now be shipped to Ohio where the manufacturer will refurbish them and reinstall them when a new bell tower is built.

You can see several photos of the project and a video of how it was done

T here are several large pieces of wood from the bell tower; some is rotten but some is in good condition and we are looking for ideas on if there is something that could be created out of the wood. We are especially calling on woodworkers, historians, artists and creative minds that might have suggestions on how to repurpose the salvageable pieces. Please contact Chuck Sterrett with your thoughts ( sssaaab80@gmail.com )

The Property Restoration Team met today and continues to move ahead with insurance and plans for rebuilding. Thanks to all who came and gave input at the recent neighborhood gatherings. It was great to see so many at the four gatherings. We have two zoom gatherings coming up this Thursday and next Tuesday. ZOOM Meeting ID: 702 288 4993 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/702288499 3

Sanibel Updates:
- February 20 is the last day that debris can be placed in the right of way by your residence and be picked up.
- Drywall will be distributed next Tuesday in the parking lot of St. Michael's by F.I.S.H. If you are in need of drywall call F.I.S.H. to register for it asap. Contact Manuela, 239-472-4775 or manuela@fishofsancap.org for details or if you would like to help volunteer to distribute it during the morning or afternoon shifts; but note it will be physical work.
- F.I.S.H's Medical Equipment Lending program assisted island residents or visitors with equipment they may only need on a temporary basis. Unfortunately, all medical equipment they had on hand was destroyed or lost as a result of Hurricane Ian. They are asking for your help to replace lost equipment for this vital program. Read more: https://conta.cc/3kM7KsI
- Two temporary trailers were delivered on the island in preparation for setting up a post office at the Tarpon Bay location. It is hoped to be operational soon.
-The Sanibel City Council voted to establish February 1, 2023, as the date when Recreation Center Memberships are needed to utilize the center’s facilities. Since reopening the Recreation Center after Hurricane Ian, residents have been able to use the facilities free of charge and without a facility membership.
-The Sanibel City Council voted to change Sanibel’s post Hurricane Ian curfew to the hours of 12 am-6 am daily. Prior to the City Council’s action, Sanibel’s curfew was 9 pm – 6 am daily. Motorists driving on Sanibel streets should expect to be stopped by Sanibel Police officers during the curfew hours of 12 am – 6 pm.

Hope to see those who haven't attended the in person Neighborhood Gatherings on one of the two zooms coming up;
Bill+

Reminder: PLEASE SEND MAIL TO OUR PO BOX:
St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #420
Fort Myers, FL 33908

Moving Forward Update #34

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 02:08:33 GMT

Dear Friends,

The name of these updates is Moving Forward and indeed that is what we are doing. The Property Restoration Team is in the midst of looking at estimates, awaiting final numbers from insurance and looking at possible design changes within the confines of cost and time that will improve our property. Today some of the members walked through every room and envisioned how best it could function in the future. If you'd like to learn more about the restoration, please come to one of of our remaining Neighborhood Gatherings in person or via zoom. Updates on the restoration are given and there is plenty of time for questions to be asked. Please RSVP by email or phone to the two remaining hosts, both of which still have room and both are handicapped accessible.

• TOMORROW, Thursday, Jan 19 - Cathy & Paul McCarthy (Lexington Country Club)
16420 Millstone Circle #202, FMY 33908
Phone # 914-841-3366
Cathy gotroxs@aol.com
Paul pmccarhty@aol.com

• Tuesday, Jan 24 - Susie Wilson (Gulf Harbor)
11460 Osprey Landing Way, FMY 33908
Phone # 914-261-8025
Susie oislw@aol.com

• Thursday, Jan 26 and Tuesday Jan 31 - ZOOM
(Link will be sent out closer to the time)

Beach Clean Up - a group of parishioners have been helping people restore their properties and restore our island. The next opportunity to help is a beach clean up; picking up all the dead fish from the red tide several weeks ago. It will be this Saturday starting at 8am. Meet at the Brown residence at 3819 W. Gulf (carpooling is recommended) if you'd like to help out and bring gloves, a 5 gallon bucket and grabbers. There will be many other opportunities as well coming up.

Sanibel Update - The island is certainly coming back to life; especially in the past week, with more residents returning to check on their property and work on restoring it. A few more businesses are opening as well. And the update from yesterday's city council meeting highlighted progress on many fronts. Here are a few highlights:

1) Curfew changing to midnight to 6 a.m. with checkpoints at discretion of Chief Dalton.
2) Recommend all get debris to right-of-way by Feb 20, after that date, property owners will be responsible for paying for debris removal
3) Feb 1 Recreation Center membership comes back.
4) After a lot of pressure put on USPS, the good news is postal service will be returning to Sanibel much sooner than late summer. Two mobile units are expected to be delivered by Friday 1/20 and will be set up like Fort Myers Beach with one as post office other for retail.
5) Most City offices are returning to City Hall building as of yesterday. MacKenzie Hall is not ready, still being remediated. Building & Planning Depts also still operating from 6200 Whiskey Creek, Ft Myers,
Hope to see you at a neighborhood gathering;
6) Beach update - Goal is to reopen two beaches in early Feb: Tarpon Beach & Blind Pass. Large debris removal continues followed by volunteer cleanups. Beach raking (Lee County assistance). Looking to accomplish at grade pedestrian access points & temporary fencing at those access points.
Chart with beaches designed green, yellow, or red based on condition:
Tarpon Beach – green with Feb opening expected.
Blind Pass Beach – green with also with Feb opening, portable restroom only.
Gulfside City Park – yellow with March opening, limited each access.
Bowman’s Beach – yellow with mid-March opening, limited beach access.
Boat Ramp – yellow with mid-March/April opening.
Lighthouse Park – red – no schedule.
Turner Beach – red – no schedule.

I hope to see you at one of the remaining Neighborhood Gatherings or on zoom in the next two weeks.

Bill+

Moving Forward Update #33

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 08:26:01 GMT

Dear Friends,

This week we begin a series of Neighborhood Gatherings in person or via zoom. I highly encourage you to attend one that works in your schedule. Please RSVP by email or phone to the host. This year more than ever, the importance of stewardship in the life of St. Michael's will be shared, along with an update on the restoration of our property.

2023 Neighborhood Gatherings

• Thursday, Jan 12 - Anne Kimball (Shellpoint)
11508 Oakmont Court, FMY 33908
Phone # 239-454-2854
Anne abkrak2@gmail.com

• Tuesday, Jan 17 - Chuck & Helen Ketteman (Shellpoint)
16432 On Par Blvd, FMY 33908
Phone # 239-699-6098
Chuck ketteman1@hotmail.com

• Thursday, Jan 19 - Cathy & Paul McCarthy (Lexington Country Club)
Elevator not working-2nd fl
16420 Millstone Circle #202, FMY 33908
Phone # 914-841-3366
Cathy gotroxs@aol.com
Paul pmccarhty@aol.com

• Tuesday, Jan 24 - Susie Wilson (Gulf Harbor)
11460 Osprey Landing Way, FMY 33908
Phone # 914-261-8025
Susie oislw@aol.com

• Thursday, Jan 26 - ZOOM
(Link will be sent out closer to the time)

• Tuesday, Jan 31 - ZOOM
(Link will be sent out closer to the time

The City of Sanibel has not had an update for a couple weeks, but had one tonight and here are some of the highlights.

- The Sanibel Farmer's Market will be returning to the parking lot of Jerry's Foods this Sunday.

- City officials have been working with our representatives to get some type of mail service restored on Sanibel. Residents were informed via email last week that mail service would not be restored until late summer 2023, but there is hope that a temporary solution could be reached much earlier. Residents are encouraged to continue to email our Senators and House of Representatives members.

-CHR has 29 units that are habitable and 44 units that are potentially able to be occupied, but challenges still exist.

-The next public meeting will be the City Council meeting on January 17 at 9am at Big Arts and the public will be allowed to attend.

-Beach parking lots are still closed but it is hoped to have a couple beach parks open in February. Large debris on the beaches has been cleared by Crowder Gulf.

-Volunteers are needed for beach clean ups sponsored by SCCF, you can sign up here ; and cleaning along San Cap Road this Saturday sponsored by Ding Darling. This is a great way to get a couple fellow parishioners, friends or family together and make a big difference.

- January 12, this Thursday, is the last day to apply for FEMA disaster assistance 800-621-3362 and/or the SBA low interest loan, 800-659-2955.

Hope to see you at a neighborhood gathering;
Bill+

Reminder: PLEASE SEND MAIL TO OUR PO BOX:
St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #420
Fort Myers, FL 33908

Moving Forward #32

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 09:16:58 GMT

Dear Friends,

We gathered for wonderful Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services this past weekend. As I proclaimed the Gospel of the birth of Jesus in candlelight and looked out at the many faces lit with the glow of the candles I had a deep sense of Emmanuel; God with us. God is with us, in this time and in all times.

As the island prepares for the reopening of the causeway next Monday, I wanted to pass along information from the City Council about what to expect. That is listed below. In terms of the church property; all the buildings are boarded up as the floors in some of them need to be repaired before it is safe to enter. The Memorial Garden was one of the first things we inspected on our first trip by boat to the island after the hurricane and continues to be a priority in the restoration process. In the past few weeks work has been done on the Memorial Garden to remove debris, clear a way to access it from the bike path and clean the grounds. Thanks to Chuck Sterrett for coordinating this effort. As the final resting place of many, I know it is a meaningful place for their family and friends and we have made every effort to make it accessible, but know that visiting it is at your own risk, as the ground is uneven and there is work still to be done. It is accessible by the bike path only. The porch area by the red doors is still unstable until the bells can be removed from the porch roof. Please do not go near the porch area by the red doors.

Information on the Sanibel Causeway – The Sanibel City Council made the decision to end the requirement for reentry passes on January 2, 2023. The Police checkpoint that has been in place since the causeway reopened to traffic will be deactivated early that morning. However, the City’s curfew will remain in effect between the hours of 9 pm and 6 am daily and the Police checkpoint will be in place during the curfew hours.

The City of Sanibel asks that non-residents respect and understand the fact that Sanibel is still actively working to recover from Hurricane Ian. While the requirement for reentry passes will no longer be necessary on January 2, 2023, they are discouraging visitors at this time and look forward to welcoming back visitors later in our recovery.

Please note the following:

Beaches and beach parks, including the Sanibel Lighthouse, remain closed – Sanibel is not open to beach visitors and the Mayoral Proclamation, extending Sanibel’s State of Emergency, prohibits non-residents from being on the beach.
Fishing Pier and Boat Ramp are closed.
The City’s shared use path (bike path) still has stacked debris waiting for pickup in many places. Nails from debris, that could cause flat tires may exist on the bike path and the City is discouraging people from using it.
Debris collection from individual lots and the City’s rights-of-way is still ongoing. Trucks collecting debris will interrupt traffic flow at times and may cause travel delays.
Most businesses are closed.
There is nothing to see or do – yet.
Residents/contractors with reentry passes should continue displaying their reentry passes at all times on their vehicle’s dashboard to assist Police.
During the hours the curfew is in place, vehicles with the following credentials will be allowed through the island checkpoint:
Sanibel and Captiva residents with a resident reentry pass and a valid driver’s license. The name on the driver’s license must match the name of the person that the reentry pass was issued to.
People driving on Sanibel Island between the hours of 9 pm and 6 am should expect to be stopped by Police patrols to verify residency or resort guest status. All persons leaving the island after 9 pm should expect to be stopped by Police at the causeway checkpoint.

Peace,
Bill+

Reminder: PLEASE SEND MAIL TO OUR NEW PO BOX:
St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #420
Fort Myers, FL 33908

Moving Forward Update #31

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 11:42:00 GMT

Dear Friends,

Today we had a lunch for St. Michael's and Peace staff members and I shared that just like the Holy Family long ago, who were homeless and found a place to stay with a welcoming innkeeper, so too we were homeless and Peace opened their hearts and home to us. We remain very grateful for their gracious hospitality and look forward to worshipping together this weekend. A reminder that the 4pm Christmas Eve service is a combined service with Peace which follows the Lutheran Book of Worship and includes communion and Pastor Andreas preaching. The 8pm Christmas Eve service is the St. Michael's service which follows the Book of Common Prayer and includes communion. I will be preaching at this service. The 10 am Christmas Day service will be a Lessons and Carols service with communion and I will be delivering the message. The 8pm will be livestreamed by us, the other two services can be viewed on Peace Lutheran's YouTube channel.

Tomorrow there is a volunteer opportunity at the Gladiolus Food Pantry to help with their toy distribution from 1-3pm. Several St. Michael's people will be helping out starting at noon and more hands are always welcome. It will be held outdoors so dress accordingly.

You can read a good summary of where we are at in terms of the progress on the property from Chuck Ketteman in yesterday's Red Door . As we approach the end of the year, please consider contributing to the St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund. All money raised at this point will go towards the rebuilding efforts of the church property. You can donate here; or text SMAA IAN to 73256 (SMAA*space*IAN) (follow the instructions on the Text message you receive).

There is a great deal of information for residents, homeowners and condo renters that has been published in the past week, and it is included below for those who might find it helpful.

Looking forward to seeing many of you at our Christmas services;
Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward #30

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 22:35:22 GMT

Dear Friends,

Last night, seminary classmate and friends Rev. David and Jennifer Knight joined us via zoom to share some of the emotional and spiritual aspects of their experience of losing their parish during Katrina, the joys and sorrows and how they came out on the other side with God's help. They had some very good insights and I invite you to watch the recording here:
https://youtu.be/bdc6a6C55gQ

Reminder: PLEASE SEND MAIL TO OUR NEW PO BOX:
St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #420
Fort Myers, FL 33908

Sanibel Resources :
- One clarification from the FEMA Town hall meeting last week; you can apply for both a SBA Loan and a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant; but you can not accept both. You must choose one or the other, not both.

- At the weekly City briefing; a rumor running around was put to rest, the last debris removal dates you are hearing on the news, do not relate to Sanibel! Crowder Gulf will be here removing debris until it is all gone. Place your debris between power poles & streets. Don’t put your debris on utility equipment, fire hydrants, water meters, or under power lines. Put it out in the open within 5’ of the edge of the pavement/road. Manager Souza also clarified confusion from info at the recent Town Hall. Though it is true that local jurisdictions may add a percentage to property values, Sanibel cannot do that because the County Appraiser already took that into consideration when issuing the Property Value letters, posted on-line.

- SCCF and the City of Sanibel are looking for volunteers to assist with the cleanup efforts on our beaches. We will be working to clean up Lighthouse Beach towards Blind Pass over the next two weeks. Those interested in signing up should know these efforts will be strenuous and will require able-bodied individuals. Volunteers should be aware of hazards on the beach such as harmful bacteria in the water and treacherous portions of the beach including access points. Some St. Michael's parishioners will be participating next week and invite your participation if you are able.
Tuesday Dec 20th
Wednesday Dec 21st
Shifts will be two hours long and volunteers will be notified the day before on where to park.
Cleanup supplies will be provided by SCCF and the City of Sanibel. Volunteers should bring a filled reusable water bottle and sun protection (hat, sunscreen, etc.). IT WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS TO WEAR CLOSED-TOE SHOES THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE CLEANUP SHIFT. Volunteers must have a valid hurricane reentry pass to participate. If you are unable to participate please do not be discouraged - this is just the first of several cleanups and many other volunteer opportunities are soon to come.
To sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4dabae2ea7fac43-sanibel

-Hopefully there will be a recording or materials available from the program held earlier today at the Sanibel Recreation Center. Claire Balsley, Director of Disaster Assistance Programs for SBP, a national disaster recovery and resilience organization, presented on how to navigate recovery processes (such as FEMA vs. SBA programs)

- This page on the City of Sanibel website, https://city-of-sanibel-hurricane-ian-recovery-resources-sanibel.hub.arcgis.com/ has several maps that might be of interest to residents; like debris removal, flood plain maps and `before and after imagery.

- There are many questions about the 50% rule and a local realtor, McCallion & McCallion, published an article on it; you can find it here ; other realtors have also offered email updates; like Pfeifer's Post Hurricane Updates you can subscribe to which give lots of information and Sotherby's on Palm Ridge Road who opened a free business center for residents recently hosted a zoom with several real estate experts from market previous devastated by major hurricanes discuss lessons learned on the road to recovery: https://youtu.be/HKUyUc8P8Mo We are not endorsing any of these real estate companies, but simply providing you with several different outlets you can use to get more information on topics that are important to you.

Peace, Bill+

Moving Forward Update #29

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 05:34:47 GMT

Dear Friends,

I have been reminded by a couple people that this time of recovery is a marathon and not a sprint, and I want to share that with you in today's update. This is a long process we are in, and we all need to exercise patience, graciousness and understanding as we enter the next stage of the rebuilding and recovery process. It takes a toll of one's physical, mental, emotional and spiritual state and one way we can all help each other is to listen and learn from others who have walked this journey before. I highly encourage you to take the time to join us tomorrow night at 6pm for a special zoom with guests Rev. David and Jennifer Knight, seminary classmates and friends of ours who lost their parish during hurricane Katrina. It was literally swept away with only the concrete foundation left. David and Jennifer will share thoughts on "after the storm"; some of the emotional and spiritual aspects of that experience, the joys and sorrows and how they came out on the other side with God's help.

The link is here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7022884993

R eminder: PLEASE SEND MAIL TO OUR NEW PO BOX

St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300

PMB #420
Fort Myers, FL 33908

Sue and I have also obtained a PO box as well. Our personal address is now:
Bill and Sue Van Oss
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #473
Fort Myers, FL 33908

We are back in our home as of last night and so grateful for all the help and support; from people dropping off meals, letting us borrow a car, housing us, and helping us get the house ready. Our wish is that others may know this joy at some point in the near future.

Sanibel Resources :
- The FEMA Town Hall meeting last week was very informative. Here is the link to the recording; https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=546107170698953&ref=sharing (fast forward as they started the live feed before the meeting started:) Call or stop by one of the FEMA disaster centers on Sanibel or Bass Road in Fort Myers if you have questions. One key take away is that if you are considering applying for a SBA loan, know that you can not also apply for a Hazard Mitigation Grant; it must be one or the other. You also can't phase repairs when dealing with the 50% rule.

- Those of you who were flooded out by Hurricane Ian may get a reduction in your Lee County Property Taxes next year . Call the Property Appraiser's Office at 239-533-6100 and tell them you wish to claim that your property is "unusable due to Hurricane Ian". You must have a copy of your latest tax bill available because they will ask for your Personal ID # (they call it an alternate key #) which is below your account # and it begins with 21-00. Do not call until you have the bill in your possession. Answer a few questions and you are noted for the new tax assessment beginning January 1 2023. Call now and you could possibly get a reduction on next years Property Taxes. This information is from the www.leegov.com site, hurricane resources tab website "Real Estate Property Tax"

- There is another program on Wednesday that looks to be very informative too and could answer questions several of you have asked recently;

Hurricane Ian: Moving Forward with Recovery

Join Claire Balsley, Director of Disaster Assistance Programs for SBP, a national disaster recovery and resilience organization, to learn how to navigate recovery processes (such as FEMA vs. SBA programs) on Wednesday, December 14 ^th at 12:00 p.m. at the Sanibel Recreation Center , 3880 Sanibel Captiva Rd. After the presentation there will also be time for individuals to ask questions. They will cover navigating federal assistance, working with insurance, working with contractors and avoiding fraud and mold suppression. Pre-registration not required. Contact 239-472-0302 or 239-395-1860 with questions.

Hope to see you on zoom tomorrow night;
Peace, Bill+

Moving Forward Update #28

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 23:25:04 GMT

Dear Friends,

U2's Bono gave a talk at the Washington National Cathedral two days ago, and one phrase stuck out to me. He said, "It's more likely that church is not a place but a practice, and the practice becomes the place. There is no promised land. There is only the promised pilgrimage." As we have come to appreciate these last few months church is not a place but the practice of loving each other and gathering together in any space. As much as we love our space on Periwinkle Way, and yearn to return, we practice our faith in every space. Every time we extend the compassion and love of God to friend and stranger alike we are practicing the Way of Love that Jesus taught us.

The work of the larger church also continues as we as gather in St. Petersburg for the delayed Diocesan Convention and the seating of our new Bishop Doug Scharf on Saturday.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: We now have a PO Box to send mail to. I encourage you to use this address, especially for important documents, stewardship pledge cards, donations to the Hurricane Relief Fund etc and general church correspondence. Mail will still get forwarded from the Periwinkle Way address, but this is a more reliable way to get mail to us. Thank you to Susan Gonzalez for letting us send mail to her home, but since we will be displaced for awhile it is good to have an official address for the mail. PLEASE SEND MAIL TO:

St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #420
Fort Myers, FL 33908

Since it will be a while before the Sanibel Post office resumes service, Sue and I have also obtained a box as well. Our personal address is now:
Bill and Sue Van Oss
15880 Summerlin Rd, Ste #300
PMB #473
Fort Myers, FL 33908
We hope to be returning to our home on Sanibel in the next two weeks.

A reminder that tomorrow at 10am is the Blue Christmas Service at Peace. (Bible Study is at 8:30am) Our Blue Christmas service is a time when we can, together, acknowledge the "blue" feelings we have at Christmas time, the reasons for them, and offer them to God.

In the afternoon we will have 4 check presentations totaling $50,000 at local agencies that are receiving a portion of the St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund. Thanks to the generosity of so many we will be supporting FISH, CHR, Gladiolus Food Pantry and Community Cooperative with substantial donations.

Sanibel Resources :
-FEMA will host a Town Hall meeting on Sanibel tomorrow at 6 p.m. at BIG ARTS and it will be on the city’s Facebook live page.
- The Causeway is opening to Non-Passholders on January 2, 2023. Curfew to remain 9pm-6am. Tolls will be collected. BUT Beaches and all beach parking will not be open at that date.
-There was a large amount of information shared at the City Council meeting yesterday; too much to cover here. You can watch the recording on the City of Sanibel Facebook page, or several people post summaries, including Sanibel Susan (Susan Andrews). There was an extensive report on CHR property damage, FDOT update on the causeway, updates on sewer, water, LCEC, debris removal, natural resources and the building department.

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #27

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 02:33:30 GMT

Dear Friends,

As we journey through this Advent season of waiting and anticipation; we are also journeying through that same season of waiting and anticipation regarding our church property; as are many of you with your homes. We have had a private appraiser evaluate the property which will help as we compare our property value to the cost of repairs. We have also submitted an initial inventory list to our insurance company. Thanks to all who helped Sue and Susan with compiling all that information. The FEMA grant management team the Diocese hired will be on site on Wednesday to tour the property and assist with a scope of work. Once we have that, what insurance will pay, and our appraisal, we can look at what the future holds. Just as Advent anticipation leads to Christmas joy; so too we know that no matter what, Christmas will come, Jesus will be born and the church; and we will rejoice at the birth of Christ.

Speaking of Christmas; there are many things going on! Be sure to check out the website and the Friday brief for all the details. And a reminder that our monthly prayer and potluck is TOMORROW night at 6pm at Peace. Last Sunday afternoon's Savior of the Nations, Come beautiful concert at Peace was livestreamed and you can watch it here; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJAtEyVPU1Y

And this Thursday at 10am is the Blue Christmas Service at Peace. This is a year when many have suffered so much loss, their home, or part of their home, personal belongings, items that hold a lot of importance in our lives, pictures and memories. Our Blue Christmas service is a time when we can, together, acknowledge the "blue" feelings we have at Christmas time, the reasons for them, and offer them to God. This is a service of prayer, music and meditation.

On Thursday afternoon we will have 4 check presentations totaling $50,000 at local agencies that are receiving a portion of the St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund; thanks to the generosity of so many. Because several local agencies now have set up their own relief funds, beginning December 1, 2022, all funds raised by the St. Michael’s Hurricane Relief Fund will be used for the rebuilding efforts of the church property. Funds will help to cover early shortfalls in insurance reimbursement and repairs. Because of the extensive damage, a significant shortfall is a strong possibility. We encourage you to continue to support local agencies doing relief work, but this specific fund will be focused on the restoration of St. Michael's buildings on Sanibel.

Sanibel Resources :
- The City Council meeting will be tomorrow at 9am at Big Arts; the first time it is being held back on the Island since the Hurricane. All are welcome to attend and it will be livestreamed on the city facebook page.
-FEMA will host a Town Hall meeting on Sanibel on Dec 8 at 6 p.m. at BIG ARTS and it will be on the city’s facebook live page.

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #26

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 08:32:25 GMT

Dear Friends,

We had an informative zoom last night with Amanda Boge, Co-Founder of My Florida Insurance Inc, who shared some of the most frequently asked questions people have regarding insurance issues surrounding Hurricane Ian. Participants were also able to ask general questions. We are grateful to Amanda for the informational presentation she shared. Several people asked if it could be recorded as they could not attend, and Amanda agreed, so here is the link to the recording. https://youtu.be/lmiscxBJF1U Note from Sue: This is a unlisted video, which means you need to click on the link listed here in order to view it. It is not available to the general public on our YouTube channel to respect the privacy of those who attended/asked questions; it is meant for viewing by our parishioners and should not be shared on any social media platforms.

Be sure to check out this Friday's brief which will have many Advent offerings, services and events coming up in the next few weeks.

Sanibel Resources : A lot of information was shared at last night's city briefing;

-The City had previously been approved for 100% financial assistance from FEMA for 60 days. The President has approved another 14 days, extending that time to Dec 7 but the city is still hoping for another extension.
-A few businesses and restaurants are beginning to open for residents and those with hurricane passes.
-Rec Center is now open for everyone, no membership needed, Tues-Sat 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Two meeting rooms are open with wifi, the weight room and a yoga class Tues & Thurs at 9 a.m. Free youth program for children grades Kindergarten to 8 Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec 3, 10, & 17. Also Dec 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. a Community Holiday Event is planned to include coco and ice cream bar, games and more.
-Delivery trucks can get on the island but must show a bill of laden or invoice showing delivery address
-FEMA will host a Town Hall meeting on Sanibel) on Dec 8 at 6 p.m. at BIG ARTS and it will be on the city’s facebook live page
-Beach Cleanup – Lee County offered to provide the equipment to rake the beach similar to Ft Myers Beach and it could begin this week. City has formally requested state assistance in restoring beach. Assessment, debris removal and sand replacement could be over $25,000,000.
- Sanibel Library providing curbside service Mon-Fri from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call Library or order on-line. Library will open Dec 1 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) No fines on overdue books.
-Entrance via the causeway bridge will continue to require hurricane passes while debris removal and LCEC trucks continue their work as they need roadway space to do so.
-Health Department reminder that conditions are right for bacteria in the water (flesh-eating). None reported but said avoid being in the water when cleaning up your property and clean up well after any exposure.
-Debris Removal – Crowder Gulf confirmed that within a matter of days all streets will have had a first pass. If your street or home was missed, email Dana.Souza@MySanibel.com .City has asked state for help in removing debris from waterways. Eventually volunteers might be utilized for debris clean up in trees, etc.
-Xfinity –still having some line problems, (advice from Sue- the best way to schedule a technician visit is to go to an Xfinity store;- she had good luck at the Coconut Point store, but schedule an online appointment in advance. In many cases new splitters will need to be installed by a tech. People are not having luck doing so over the phone.)
-Improvised Luminary – will be at Bell Tower where some Sanibel retail shops have temporarily relocated. Fri Dec 2 from 6- 8 p.m. There will be music and a tree lighting.
-This is not an endorsement, but as we try and help Sanibel rebuild we wanted to pass along a listing we found of some of the island businesses that have opened online shopping if you wish to help support them this holiday season.

Adventures In Paradise Outfitters - thesanibelstore.com
The Bubble Room - https://shop.bubbleroomrestaurant.com/
Captiva Cruises - captivacruises.com
Cedar Chest Fine Jewelry - cedarchestsanibel.com
Coco y Cabana - cocoycabana.com
Congress Jewelers - congressjewelers.com
JRod's - shopjrods.com
Lighthouse Cafe of Sanibel - lighthousecafe.com
Lily & Co. Jewelry store - lilyjewelers.com
On Island - www.OnIslandShop.com
Priscilla’s of Sanibel - www.priscillasofsanibel.com
Rachel Pierce Art Gallery - byrachelpierce.com
The Sanibel Cafe - etsy.com/shop/SanibelCafe
Shiny Objects Sanibel - shinyobjectssanibel.com
Suncatchers' Dream - suncatchersdream.com
Synergy Sportswear - synergysportswear.com

The City is now doing updates once a week on Tuesdays, I encourage you to watch it for lots of helpful information. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068081412480

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #25

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 06:12:45 GMT

Dear Friends,

I hope you enjoyed some rest and relaxation during the Thanksgiving weekend. We started off the season of Advent with a fun presentation of the resources available during the service yesterday. Packets were distributed and will be available on Wednesday at Peace and are also able to be downloaded on our website, https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/advent Musical offerings (2 of which are highlighted below), prayer opportunities like the Blue Christmas service we are collaborating on with Peace and St. Peter's Lutheran, a Way of Love Journey through Advent series on Monday mornings at 10am, ways to be of service to the community through a toy drive and food collection; so many ways to enter into this season of waiting. Check out our website for more information.

I also encourage you to attend tomorrow's zoom on Insurance Issues for those affected by Hurricane Ian. Amanda Boge, Co-founder of My Florida Insurance will be with us to give insurance tips and answer general questions. The zoom link is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7022884993 Mee t ing ID: 702 288 4993

I am looking forward to taking some time off later this week to spend time as a family, and will be back on Saturday.

Sanibel Resources:

The Sanibel Rec Center is opening starting tomorrow from 8am-5pm and you do not need to be a member to use the facilities including the weight/cardio room. if you need a place to rest, air conditioning, rest rooms, or a shower, those areas will be available.

A version of Sanibel Luminary will be held this Friday from 6-8pm at the Bell Tower Shops with some of the Sanibel small businesses having pop up shops, a choir and tree lighting.

The City is now doing updates once a week on Tuesdays, I encourage you to watch it for lots of helpful information. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068081412480

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #24

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 05:55:11 GMT

Dear Friends,

Yesterday's Friendsgiving at the Sanibel Community House was a wonderful time for residents to give each other hugs, stay connected and thank the emergency responders and workers who are helping to bring back our beloved island. Our T hanksgiving Day service is tomorrow, Thursday, November 24 at Peace Lutheran at 10am. It will be livestreamed and you can click here to watch it if you are not in town.

More than 35 volunteers with the Gladiolus Food Pantry spent the entire day on Saturday providing the fixings for a Thanksgiving dinner to neighbors needing a little help. They provided 946 turkeys and the trimmings to struggling families to help make their Thanksgiving a happy occasion.

A reminder that you can view the recording of Monday's all parish zoom meeting and the presentation slides on our website; https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/hurricane-ian I encourage you to check out our Christian Formation series Preparing for the Present that begins next Tuesday with a zoom with an insurance professional.

Sanibel Resources:

Distribution of Sanibel/Captiva Hurricane Reentry Passes

The City of Sanibel continues to issue Sanibel/Captiva Hurricane Reentry Passes at the Fort Myers Regional Library Meeting Rooms, located at 1651 Lee St, Ft. Myers, FL 33901

For the remainder of this week, Hurricane Passes will be issued in accordance with the following schedule:
Wednesday, November 23 – 8 am – 5 pm, closed for lunch from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Thursday, November 24 – Closed for Thanksgiving
Friday, November 25 – Closed for Thanksgiving
Saturday, November 26 – 8:30 am – 12:30 pm

During the Facebook Live Hurricane Ian Recovery Update on November 17, 2022, Postmaster Tirzah Althouse spoke to the mail still being picked up at the Jetport Loop Facility (14080 Jetport Loop, Fort Myers). She noted the facility will be closed on Thursday, November 24th in observance of Thanksgiving but would be open on Friday, November 25th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Click here to change or forward your mailing address. Click here to sign up for "Informed Delivery". Please notify Postmaster Althouse if you cannot pick up your mail weekly as mail and packages cannot be held longer than 10 days.

To reach Postmaster Althouse please email tirzah.j.althouse@usps.gov .

The Sanibel Rec Center soon will reopen on limited basis. They hope to offer free yoga program, with other programs to follow based on need/use. Islanders may use the facility whether you have a membership or not. Also open there will be a community room, so if you need a place to rest, air conditioning, rest rooms, or a shower, those areas will be available.

Deliveries are allowed on island – carriers must have documentation showing what is being delivered and destination.

Island Water – Boil water notice rescinded.

Public Works – Domestic water & sewer service available. If using water for first time, please dry clean sediment to avoid clogging drains.

If you have debris on your private property that you can’t push to the curb, sign up at IanDebrisCleanup.com , for assistance. Info on City website.

I hope you have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving,

Bill+

Moving Forward Update #23

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 09:05:11 GMT

Dear Friends,

Today's update will be very short because we just finished a well attended all parish property update via zoom. You can view the recording of the meeting and the presentation slides on our website; https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/hurricane-ian

A reminder for those with hurricane passes that there is a Friendsgiving meal being served from 11am-1pm at the Community House tomorrow. St. Michael's Outreach is a cosponsor of this event for Sanibel residents, emergency responders and those working on the island. Our Thanksgiving Day service is on Thursday, November 24 at Peace Lutheran at 10am and a brunch to follow; but please RSVP to Susan Gonzalez so we have a count. Egg dishes will be provided and you can bring a simple side of fruit, breads, etc to share.

I hope you have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving,

Bill+

Moving Forward Update #22

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 11:03:21 GMT

Dear Friends,

We had a very nice weekend in Palm Beach celebrating the installation of our dear friend Tim as Rector of Bethesda by the Sea Episcopal Church. It was also nice to be part of a clergy day of reflection at Day Spring today. Just a reminder that Bishop Dabney Smith will be with us this Sunday at our 11:30am service and we will be joined by Rev. Jean Hite of St. Raphael's, Fort Myers Beach and members of that congregation.

There will also be a Thanksgiving Day service at 10am and a brunch to follow; but please RSVP to Susan Gonzalez or sign up this Sunday at coffee hour. Egg dishes will be provided and you can bring a simple side of fruit, breads, etc to share. Thanks to all for the donation of 11 turkeys and $2900 for the Gladiolus Food Pantry this past week. Information on Advent offerings will be coming in the Friday brief.

Staff and Vestry will be invited to a tour of the property this Saturday morning. Details will be shared at the vestry meeting tomorrow when an update on the restoration will also be given. We will have an All Parish Zoom next Monday, November 21 at 5pm to update everyone on what has been happening, show recent photos and share what the next steps are. The link for the zoom will be in Friday's brief.

Housing : Please email deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or text: 703-966-9474 If you have need of accommodations for a night or two or three while you check on your home or have a place to offer for a few nights. KC (Kara) Cuscaden is heading the effort for more long term housing. Please contact Deborah Larson and information will be relayed to KC.

Sanibel Information and Resources:
(thanks to Susan Andrews for a thorough summary of each briefing)

-The Sanibel Police Department announced a new initiative to support its effort to keep the community safe and secure. Beginning this week, a police blotter will be issued twice weekly to report real time law enforcement response to criminal activity.

-The East Periwinkle Bridge should be repaired and opened by Thanksgiving.

- Comcast – VP Derek Cooper reported at yesterday's briefing that their restoration is ahead of schedule. Initial thought would have island service begin 12/16, now some areas will be on next week. They are not connecting those properties destroyed. Will issue new equipment if lost in storm (request by app, on line, in person). Comcast Wi-Fi van capable of supporting 1000 customers now set up just east of Tarpon Bay Rd. Will move around island as needed.

-Two City main priorities now are debris pickup & permitting process .

- Debris Management – Contact IanDebrisCleanup.com if you can’t get your debris to the curb. City is going to start cracking down on condo complexes & commercial establishments that are piling their debris on other properties. If they have insurance for removal, their restoration companies should be removing their debris.

- Craig Mole, Sanibel new Building Dept Director – New on-line system is up. In last week, 135 permits have been submitted, 10 issued, 14 are ready to be issued, rest in review. Goal is to complete reviews in 5 business days. Trends are that building value letters (or appraisals) are missing. Be sure to include or have your contractor include. To see the fillable forms, go to www.MySanibel.com , then Depts, then Bldg, then Bldg Div Forms.

- Matt Caldwell, Lee County Property Appraiser (since 2020) -- His job is to assign a property value to each of the 550K parcels in the County on January 1 of each year. FEMA’s 50% rule process is up to each City to administer. If property is below floodplain, FEMA requires the property be brought up to Code if cost is more than 50% the building value. FEMA has five ways to determined that value. Recommended hiring personal private appraiser if the value shown on LeePA.org isn’t enough. Recognized that the County values were 10 months old when the storm hit.

- Routine Trash/Garbage Pickup has not resumed yet in all areas. Please bring your trash to the Recycling Center. Those dumpsters being emptied more often. Regular service to begin once more debris removed & utility vehicles done.

- Mail Update – Postmaster will be at next meeting.

- Delivery Vehicles – from FedEx, Amazon, etc. are allowed on island provided they can prove they have items to a deliver to specific addresses.

- Beaches still essentially closed. No swim notice still applies. Still working with state Emergency Management Office on getting help cleaning beaches.

*LINKS:

Current Disaster Updates Home | Florida Disaster

FEMA Landing Page for Hurrican e Ian Resources 4673 | FEMA.gov

City of Sanibel Briefings The City of Sanibel, Florida | Sanibel FL | Facebook

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #21

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 06:01:32 GMT

Dear Friends,

Hopefully those of you currently in the area have prepared your homes as much as possible for incoming tropical storm Nicole. We pray that the winds and rain do not do further damage to already compromised homes and businesses. Sue and I just returned from the island, where the restoration company has secured the property and have left the island until Friday. We also got our home prepped as much as possible. Two shelters are open, Estero Rec Center & North Fort Myers Rec Center if you do not feel safe in your present location.

Any updates due to the weather for meetings scheduled for tomorrow will be sent via email.

Please check out the email that went out earlier today announcing the Thanksgiving Day service at 10am and a potluck brunch to follow. Also there is a collection of frozen turkeys and money for the Gladiolus Food Pantry this weekend. Donations will be collected at church on Sunday.

Angels on the Go : The challenges ahead will be many, but our Angels are ready to serve in helping you with those unexpected tasks that are beyond your current ability. Just call (239-472-2173) or email the Church Office and the angels will do their very best to personally help you out, or to find a solution for taking care of your needs.

*The next city of Sanibel briefing will be tomorrow night at 5pm. You can watch it on FaceBook Live. Be sure to check out our previous updates we sent out that have several resources.

New Additions :
*Beginning Tuesday, November 15th Premier Sotheby's International Realty, 2341 Palm Ridge Rd. (Between the CVS and Fire Station) will offer a complimentary business center with :Computer Usage, Wi-Fi, Printing and Scanning, Desk Space, Air conditioning, Water, Snacks, Restrooms

*Jerry's Foods now is offering a limited selection of hardware items, including saws, shovels, hoses, PPE, air filters, hand tools, screws, nails, glue, and more.

*The Army Corp of Engineers have released the reassessments of properties .

*If anyone needs a little motivation today, call 707-873-7862; it's a school project where kindergarteners give you a pep talk. It's very cute and it's automated!

*LINKS :

Current Disaster Updates Home | Florida Disaster

State Resources Home | Florida Disaster

Federal Resources Home | Florida Disaster

FEMA Landing Page for Hurricane Ian Resources 4673 | FEMA.gov

Lee County

After the Storm (leegov.com)

Storm Updates (leegov.com)

Public Shelters (leegov.com)

City of Sanibel Briefings The City of Sanibel, Florida | Sanibel FL | Facebook

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #20

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 07:45:24 GMT

Dear Friends,

It was an important day in our recovery process as we welcomed Bishop Dabney Smith and members of Episcopal Relief and Development's USA Disaster team to our island property. They toured all the buildings and then were joined by Mayor Holly Smith and City Manager Dana Souza who we invited to come and meet the team and see what partnerships can be formed and resources available to help our island community recover. The ERD team had several ideas and it was a great first gathering to connect, learn and explore how ERD can provide assistance. Thanks to Mayor Smith and Manager Souza for taking time out of their busy day to join us.

With SubTropical Storm Nicole (possibly becoming hurricane Nicole) arriving later this week, preparations are being made to secure the property as much as possible and we pray the storm stays north to avoid battering SWFL again with winds that could cause further damage to already compromised roofs of homes and businesses and flying debris.

Coming Up this week:

Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 8 Men's Fellowship at 8:30am either in person at Peace of via zoom

Prayer Shawl Ministry via zoom at 12:30pm

Wednesday, November 9 starts with 9am Eucharist, then our staff and clergy meeting at 10am, followed by 11:30am-3:00pm Office Hours for you to stop in and say hi and meet with any staff member.

Thursday November 10, Bible Study via zoom at 10am and Thursday Compline via zoom 6:00pm

Friday, November 11 10:00am in person “After The Storm - Taking Care of Ourselves and Each Other”

Please note due to a scheduling issue, Messy Church is being postponed until a later date. Sue and I will be out of town from Friday-Monday.

Housing: Please email deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or text: 703-966-9474 If you have need of accommodations for a night or two or three while you check on your home or have a place to offer for a few nights. KC (Kara) Cuscaden is heading the effort for more long term housing. Please contact Deborah Larson and information will be relayed to KC.

Sanibel Information and Resources:

The next city of Sanibel briefing will be tomorrow night at 5pm. You can watch it on FaceBook Live

As of today, the boil water notice has been rescinded for all of Sanibel and Captive except the Caloosha Shores Association area.

Residents can apply for a free debris removal service which includes displaced and abandoned vehicles, vessels, and other titled property from qualifying private and commercial properties, as well as waterways throughout Lee County. More information and the application may be accessed at this website: https://iandebriscleanup.com/

Beginning Today, FISH and the American Legion Post 123 will open a comfort station to include showers, bathrooms and laundry facilities in the parking lot of the Sanibel Legion. The 'Legion' is located at 4249 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel. This is in addition to the state's comfort station located at the Community Church.

Information Regarding Sanibel's Emergency Repair Permitting Policy and Emergency Permit Applications

The City of Sanibel’s Building Department has posted information concerning the Emergency Repair Permitting Policy along with Emergency Permit Applications for alterations, demolition, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and roofs.

To review the City’s Hurricane Ian Emergency Repair Permitting Policy, please click here .

To review the City’s “Guidance for Structures the Sustained Significant Damage or the require “Significant Improvement”, please click here .

To access the City’s Emergency Permit Applications, please click here .

FEMA kicks off direct housing mission in Florida;

Mental health counselors, body, workers, and massage therapists are on Sanibel. We are offering some love and free support to residents and first responders. The team is made of local residents from SWFL who rotate shifts daily in tents at the Shack that is giving out free food daily from 11am-2pm. This is the first ever state sponsored initiative for mental health and wellness emergency services right here on Sanib el.

The chamber has collaborated with Lee Health to set up starlink with the same password at the Chamber, Jerry’s, SanCap Community Bank, Island Inn, and Tween.Waters. This allows you to access free wifi at these spots.

A brief video of the lighthouse set to music.

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #19

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 07:21:18 GMT

Dear Friends,

A wonderful spirit at Peace Church yesterday. It was great to see so many people coming together for prayer, worship and fellowship. The spirit of St. Michael's remains good in spite of us being displaced. I am also pleased to report that the Hurricane Relief Fund has surpassed $100,000 in donations. Vestry will be making decisions about how to spend these funds on our rebuilding, our parishioners in need and the community.

Starting next Sunday, please enter Peace using the Fellowship Hall Doors and remain in the hall until their service ends and Peace folks have had a chance to leave the narthex area. This will eliminate the congestion in that area and the noise of people coming in and disrupting the end of their service.

Wendy is coordinating the placing of phone calls to all our parishioners to see how people are doing and get updated mailing and email addresses. We have divided up the parish into groups of 20; if you are able to make some calls, please contact Wendy and she can email you the information.

Messy Church is returning November 13! Thanks to all our volunteers who are willing to jump back in and provide a faithfilled, fun experience for the families who are undergoing so many challenges in their lives.

Lots going on this week at St. Michael's Mainland:

Tuesday, November 1 Prayer Shawl Ministry via zoom

Wednesday, November 2 is a big day at our temporary home! It starts with 9am Eucharist , then our staff and clergy meeting at 10am, followed by 11:30am-3:00pm Office Hours for you to stop in and say hi and meet with any staff member.

Then it's the return of our monthly Prayer and Potluck- the Hubbard's are hosting Brat Night! If you didn't RSVP, we will have extras, so plan on joining in for the brief prayer service at 6pm planned by Suzy Post, followed by the potluck at 6:30pm. Please note that the refrigerator at Peace is not working, so if you have something that needs to stay cold, please bring it in a cooler, or in a pan with ice underneath your dish .

Thursday November 3, Bible Study via zoom at 10am and Thursday Compline via zoom 6:00pm

Friday, November 4 10:00am in person “After The Storm - Taking Care of Ourselves and Each Other”

Tonight's city of Sanibel briefing was cancelled . Please note the city changed it's mind and now is allowing Sanibel residents and private contractors with appropriate hurricane pass on island Mondays and Tuesdays as well as the rest of the week from 6am-9pm. They will attempt to close certain roads instead of the whole island so the debris removal can continue.

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #18

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 06:12:11 GMT

Dear Friends,

Today was our midweek Wednesday "Peace" day; we started with Eucharist at 9am, then had our staff and clergy meeting and then offered open office hours from 11:30am-3:00pm. I encourage you to come to the midweek service and/or stop in to see us during our office hours. We are located in the Jericho Room off the Fellowship Hall; just come to the main set of doors and ring the doorbell to be let in.

This afternoon our Senior Warden Bob Syversen, and his wife Joanne came with me to the church property to see firsthand the removal and drying processes. He was amazed at the progress made in just the first 9 days of the restoration company having equipment and crews on site. More photos will be shared in the Friday brief so you can see what is happening. Please continue to pray for the safety of the crew who is working very hard, as one person sustained an injury. They are carefully removing all the effected contents and salvaging what they can; which unfortunately is not a large amount due to the high water level that occurred in the buildings.

Thursday, October 27: 10:00am Bible Study IS CANCELLED TOMORROW. I will be meeting with the CFO of the Diocese and a representative from FEMA, along with Chuck Ketteman who is working on our insurance situation.

Thursday Compline via zoom 6:00pm Zoom Meeting ID: 83587572066 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83587572066
Phone-in (no video): 1-646-931-3860 Enter Meeting ID: 835 8757 2066

Wednesday November 2, 2022. Prayer and Potluck Returns 6pm at Peace. PLEASE RSVP by October 30 so we know how many brats to purchase. You can do so by emailing parishsecretary@saintmichaels-sanibel.org , calling the office at 239-472-2173 or signing up at coffee hour next weekend.

St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund - Thanks to all who have contributed and/or spread the word about the fund. A reminder to please write checks out to St. Michael and All Angels and then put Hurricane Relief in the memo line. The St. Michael's United in Love Hurricane Relief Fund online or text SMAA IAN to 73256 (SMAA*space*IAN)

Housing : If you HAVE a spare room in your home, please provide your Name, Address, contact email and cell number and size of space and number of persons you can accommodate. Also, please state whether you will allow pets and how you feel about smokers. If you NEED temp housing, Please state your name, contact email and cell, the number of people in your group and approximately what your anticipated length of stay. (We realize that this will be difficult to estimate, but best guess will be fine.) Please email to deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or please text to : 703-966-9474 If you have need of accommodations for a night or two or three while you check on your home. Please text or email Deborah Larson. deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or text :703-966-9474 KC (Kara) Cuscaden will be heading the effort for more long term housing. Please contact Deborah Larson and information will be relayed to KC.

Information and Resources from tonight's city briefing :

It was a lengthy 2 hour City Briefing tonight with lots of information on the 50% rule and from FEMA. Please go to https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068081412480 to watch the recording if you are a Sanibel resident with property damage.

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #17

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 22:49:31 GMT

Dear Friends,

How good it was to be together yesterday in a marvelous spirit of music, scripture, prayer and communion to remind us of what's important and to lift up people who are signs of God's presence in big and small ways. Just a reminder that staff are available in the fellowship hall during coffee hour on Sundays and on Wednesday afternoons from 11:30pm-3:00pm in the Jericho room off the hall. As you can see below, we have a lot of opportunities to gather in person and online during the week; I encourage you to continue to connect with one another in these and other ways.

Work on the church buildings continues to go smoothly and the team is ahead of schedule with the removal and drying process. Content removal is almost complete and the sanctuary and adjoining buildings are completed sealed off to facilitate the process. I receive daily briefings from the director of the team and visited today to thank the large crew who are dedicated to the restoration process. At the bottom I will add a photo of just some of the massive equipment and portable power they are using.

Coming up at St. Michael's Mainland this week:
Men's Fellowship Tuesday, October 25th at 8:30 a.m.
(ZOOM Only but we are working on a hybrid option for in person as well)
On October 25 we will discuss voting, a basic right in our country. First we have updated information from Lee County Supervisor of Elections regarding voting places and procedures as a result of Ian's damage. Then we will address broader questions, such as: should Election Day be a national holiday? Should voting be made mandatory, as it is in some countries? This will not be a partisan discussion. This meeting will be via Zoom.
The ZOOM meeting ID: #820 0070 2322
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82000702322
Phone-in number is: 1-929-205-6099 ~ Enter meeting ID above when prompted.

Prayer Shawl Ministry gathering via zoom at 12:30pm https://zoom.us/j/92617170685

Wednesday Morning October 26 Eucharist 9:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church
Wednesday Staff Open Office Hours 12:00-3:00 p.m. in the Jericho Room (off the Fellowship Hall)
Ring the door bell at the main doors at Peace, the door will be unlocked and then go to the right through the Good Samaritan fellowship hall to the Jericho Room where we will be set up.

Thursday, October 27: 10:00am Bible Study via zoom
ZOOM Meeting ID#: 930 4599 7623 https://zoom.us/j/93045997623

Compline via zoom 6:00pm Zoom Meeting ID: 83587572066 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83587572066
Phone-in (no video): 1-646-931-3860 Enter Meeting ID: 835 8757 2066

Friday, October 28 10:00am at Peace Lutheran Church “ After The Storm - Taking Care of Ourselves and Each Other ” Join us for a gathering, and support time where we can share and listen to each other. Please come and share your story in a safe, trusting prayerful place. We have offered this opportunity to gather to member of Peace Church and you are welcome to bring someone you know who might find comfort from gathering as well.

Saturday October 29 Interfaith Prayer Vigil at 10am at Fort Myers Christian Church - outdoors, 5916 Winkler Road, Ft Myers, 33919. Join us as we gather our community together for a time of prayer and healing. All are welcome!

Wednesday November 2, 2022. Prayer and Potluck Returns 6pm at Peace. PLEASE RSVP by October 30 so we know how many brats to purchase. You can do so by emailing parishsecretary@saintmichaels-sanibel.org , calling the office at 239-472-2173 or signing up at coffee hour next weekend.

St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund - Thanks to all who have contributed and/or spread the word about the fund. A reminder to please write checks out to St. Michael and All Angels and then put Hurricane Relief in the memo line. The St. Michael's United in Love Hurricane Relief Fund online or text SMAA IAN to 73256 (SMAA*space*IAN)

SMAA Temporary Housing update October 20, 2022

We continue to request HAVES and WANTS among our parishioners for TEMPORARY HOUSING. As we begin to recover and heal from Hurricane Ian, many parishioners have located alternative housing either temporary or long term. Some still have a need. If you HAVE a spare room in your home, please provide your Name, Address, contact email and cell number and size of space and number of persons you can accommodate. Also, please state whether you will allow pets and how you feel about smokers. If you NEED temp housing, Please state your name, contact email and cell, the number of people in your group and approximately what your anticipated length of stay. (We realize that this will be difficult to estimate, but best guess will be fine.) Please email to: deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or please text to : 703-966-9474

If you have need of accommodations for a night or two or three while you check on your home. Please text or email Deborah Larson. deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or text :703-966-9474 KC (Kara) Cuscaden will be heading the effort for more long term housing. Please contact Deborah Larson and information will be relayed to KC. We are trying to accommodate our parishioners FIRST (for many reasons). Most hosts who have offered will not accept pets and smokers FYI. If you even have an extra room or a property that survived Ian (condo or home) that could house someone even for a short time, we do have a great need. Snowbirds, if you have not yet returned and your property is available, this is a perfect use for it! Many thanks in advance for your your kindness and generosity. Deborah Larson

Information and Resources from tonight's city briefing:

1. Causeway: New Hours starting tomorrow- 6am -9pm , but starting October 31 Mondays and Tuesdays will be for emergency responders and contractors only. The curfew remains in effect from 9am-6pm with no private vehicles or pedestrians on streets during those hours.

2. Bailey's and Jerry's have been business partners for many years and today announced how they are working together for the community, including a $20,000 donation to F.I.S.H. Jerry's reopened on Friday and several of the stores in that plaza. We are all encouraged to shop local as much as possible to support our local businesses.

3. John Lai, President of the Chamber announced there are now WIFI hot spots at the Chamber, Jerry's and Island Inn with additional spots coming soon.

4. A sign of hope for our sanctuary island, SCCF is creating a wildlife reporting tool and large flocks of birds have returned, gopher tortoises, bald eagles and bobcats among other species and foliage is budding out. I have to say each time I visit the island and talk to those present, I see signs of hope amid the many challenges as well.

5. Resources available : Water at F.I.S.H., Community church and Sea School. Ice at Sea School, Sanibel Deli parking lot and Community Church. Hot food after 12 noon at the Shack Monday-Saturday while supplies last and Operation BBQ at Sanibel Deli parking lot. Cleaning supplies at F.I.S.H. along with non perishable food items and hygiene equipment. Laundry, showers and charging stations at Community church parking lot. At Palm Ridge fire station there are tarps, 4 sheets of plywood and carbon monoxide detectors for residents. The Army Corp of Engineers is starting to tarp homes starting tomorrow and the deadline has been expanded to November 1.

6. November 7 is the target date for the city to begin accepting emergency building permits for those with minor damage to their homes.

Peace,
Bill+

The green Sunbelt rig is one of several portable generator units that power the large drying units, which are accomplishing their goal in a measured way to prevent any damage to the wood in the buildings.

Moving Forward Update #16

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 07:09:06 GMT

Dear Friends,

1. Another step in the recovery process of our beloved island is the reopening of the causeway for residents and contractors with hurricane passes that happened this morning at 11:00am. Please read the details below for important information on the causeway opening and lots of resources for Sanibel residents.

2. I receive a daily report from the restoration company and it sounds from yesterday's report that things are proceeding quickly. They completed 4 trips with a large barge and had two planned today to complete the delivery of everything they need. They have met with LCEC and are getting an electrician over by the end of the week. They also have a company delivering daily fuel supply for their temporary power. All Electrical boxes, cables, and equipment was delivered. Personal protective gear/tools for 2+ weeks of work of initial salvage and removal was delivered as well.

3. Mobile Office - We welcomed parishioners this morning to our midweek Eucharist and then open office hours from noon-3pm today. We will continue this every Wednesday so feel free to stop by. Ring the door bell at the main doors at Peace, the door will be unlocked and then go to the front through the Good Samaritan fellowship hall to the Jericho Room where we will be set up.

4. Coming up at St. Michael's Mainland this week:

Tomorrow, Thursday, October 20:

- 10:00am Bible Study via zoom , ZOOM Meeting ID#: 930 4599 7623 https://zoom.us/j/93045997623

- 1:00pm Vestry via zoom (link sent to members

- 6:00pm Compline via zoom
Zoom Meeting ID: 83587572066 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83587572066
Phone-in (no video): 1-646-931-3860
Enter Meeting ID: 835 8757 2066

Friday, October 21 10:00am at Peace Lutheran Church “After The Storm - Taking Care of Ourselves and Each Other” Join us for a gathering, and support time where we can share and listen to each other. Please come and share your story in a safe, trusting prayerful place. We have offered this opportunity to gather to member of Peace Church and you are welcome to bring someone you know who might find comfort from gathering as well.

5. Prayer and Potluck Returns Wednesday November 2, 2022 . I'm happy to announce that our 1st Wednesday Prayer and Potluck will resume in a couple weeks. We have also invited the folks at Peace to join us as well. The Hubbards will be hosting the annual brat night and those who are able should bring a side dish. Our mantra right now is "keep it simple" so the brats, buns, condiments, paper plates and forks will be provided, along with wine, juice and water. No beer will be served as that is not the tradition at Peace. We do ask that you PLEASE RSVP by October 30 so we know how many brats to purchase. You can do so by emailing parishsecretary@saintmichaels-sanibel.org , calling the office at 239-472-2173 or signing up at coffee hour the next two weeks.

6. Interfaith Prayer Vigil Saturday October 29 at 10am at Fort Myers Christian Church - outdoors, 5916 Winkler Road, Ft Myers, 33919. Join us as we gather our community together for a time of prayer and healing. All are welcome!

7. St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund - Thanks to all who have contributed and/or spread the word about the fund. A reminder to please write checks out to St. Michael and All Angels and then put Hurricane Relief in the memo line.

8. SMAA Temporary Housing update We are looking for HAVES and WANTS among our parishioners for TEMPORARY HOUSING. If you HAVE a spare room in your home, please provide your Name, Address, contact email and cell number and size of space and number of persons you can accommodate. Also, please state whether you will allow pets and how you feel about smokers. If you NEED temp housing, Please state your name, contact email and cell, the number of people in your group and approximately what your anticipated length of stay. (We realize that this will be difficult to estimate, but best guess will be fine.) Please email to: deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or please text to : 703-966-9474

As of October 14 we had three requests for housing..so far THREE to accommodate or house. Some have been “non SMAA” people. We are trying to accommodate our parishioners FIRST (for many reasons). Most hosts who have offered will not accept pets and smokers FYI. If you even have an extra room or a property that survived Ian(condo or home) that could house someone even for a short time, we do have a great need. Snowbirds, if you have not yet returned and your property is available, this is a perfect use for it! Many thanks in advance for your your kindness and generosity. If you have need of accommodations for a night or two or three while you check on your home, one of our parishioners can offer a room in their home in South Ft Myers. Please text or email Deborah Larson deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or text: 703-966-9474

Information and Resources:

1. Causeway : Beginning at 11:00am today, Wednesday, October 19, the emergency reentry plan established by the City of Sanibel will become effective. Until further notice, vehicular traffic over the causeway and bridge will be allowed as follows:

MONDAY AND TUESDAY OF EACH WEEK: ESSENTIAL RESPONSE PERSONNEL ONLY Emergency vehicles Debris management Electric providers Water and sewer utility providers NO RESIDENT, BUSINESS OWNER, PROPERTY OWNER, PRIVATE CONTRACTOR ACCESS ON MONDAY AND TUESDAY OF EACH WEEK
WEDNESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY OF EACH WEEK: RESIDENT, BUSINESS OWNER, PROPERTY OWNER, PRIVATE CONTRACTOR ACCESS Inbound access between 8:00am – 5:00pm, Two Inbound Lanes, Right Lane – Emergency Vehicles & Emergency Government Contractors Only, Left Lane - Sanibel residents, businesses, property owners and private contractors., A VALID 2021 OR 2022 SANIBEL RE-ENTRY PERMIT MUST BE PROMINENTLY DISPLAYED WHEN APPROACHING THE CHECKPOINT A curfew is in effect between 9:00pm – 6:00am. No vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian movement is permitted, except for essential response personnel.
Please click here to view detailed maps for checkpoints and traffic patterns to access Sanibel via the causeway and bridge.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON SANIBEL:

1.Law enforcement presence, Large construction vehicles traveling throughout island, LCEC bucket trucks restoring power poles and powerlines, 20 mph speed limit, Traffic congestion throughout Sanibel, Slow speeds through areas where essential personnel are working, Yield to emergency crews, Debris throughout the island, Bicyclists, low speed vehicles, and pedestrians in roadway, No food services, No gasoline stations, Displaced wildlife, Curfew 9:00pm – 6:00am.

The City of Sanibel asks residents, property owners, businesses, and private contractors to strictly adhere to the established reentry procedures, including reentry passes, inbound traffic patterns, and all traffic laws, and to obey all law enforcement directives.

2. Ding Darling published a comprehensive list of resources : https://dingdarlingsociety.org/downloadable-files/633b1bf3aa36d87d7acff476.pdf

3. If you are arriving via boat and need to get into the water, please be aware of the bacteria that is presently in the water and has caused some to be hospitalized and unfortunately at least one death in the past week. https://lee.floridahealth.gov/newsroom/2022/10/100320228.html

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #15

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 07:58:22 GMT

Dear Friends,

We had a wonderful time of worship and fellowship yesterday at our temporary home, Peace Lutheran in Fort Myers. If you are in the area, please join us next Sunday at 11:30am followed by coffee hour. If you would like to host a coffee hour please contact Susan Gonzalez at her email or the church phone number, which is forwarded to her.

1. Restoration work has begun on the church property on Sanibel! The company has set up heavy equipment and vehicles and has a crew hard at work securing and drying out the properties. A reminder to please stay away from the property so their progress isn't impeded.

2. This week:
Wednesday, October 19 9:00am Eucharist with Healing Prayers, 11:00am Staff and Clergy Meeting, Noon-3pm Staff available if you'd like to stop in and conduct business, get questions answered or obtain information on resources available to you.
Thursday, October 20 10:00am Bible Study via zoom, 1:00pm Vestry via zoom, 6:00pm Evening Prayer via zoom
Friday, October 21 10:00am “After The Storm - Taking Care of Ourselves and Each Other” Join us for a gathering, and support time where we can share and listen to each other. Please come and share your story in a safe, trusting prayerful place.

3. The Hurricane Relief Fund is now at $51,613. Thank you to all who have contributed and/or spread the word. Vestry will be discussing disbursement of these funds at their meeting on Thursday.

4. Angels on the Go Ready to Serve -Over the past year the Angels of St. Michael’s have shown acts of kindness in so many ways. We are still giving rides, shopping, fixing things, changing light bulbs, but Hurricane Ian has certainly broadened our perspective. The challenges ahead will be many, but our Angels are ready to serve in helping you with those unexpected tasks that are beyond your current ability. Just call or email the church office and we will do our very best to personally help you out, or to find a solution for taking care of your needs. Working together we will take care of each other in the challenging days ahead.

5. SMAA Temporary Housing update We are looking for HAVES and WANTS among our parishioners for TEMPORARY HOUSING. If you HAVE a spare room in your home, please provide your Name, Address, contact email and cell number and size of space and number of persons you can accommodate. Also, please state whether you will allow pets and how you feel about smokers. If you NEED temp housing, Please state your name, contact email and cell, the number of people in your group and approximately what your anticipated length of stay. (We realize that this will be difficult to estimate, but best guess will be fine.) Please email to : deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or please text to : 703-966-9474

As of October 14 we had three requests for housing..so far THREE to accommodate or house. Some have been “non SMAA” people. We are trying to accommodate our parishioners FIRST (for many reasons). Most hosts who have offered will not accept pets and smokers FYI. If you even have an extra room or a property that survived Ian(condo or home) that could house someone even for a short time, we do have a great need. Snowbirds, if you have not yet returned and your property is available, this is a perfect use for it! Many thanks in advance for your your kindness and generosity. If you have need of accommodations for a night or two or three while you check on your home, one of our parishioners can offer a room in their home in South Ft Myers. Please text or email Deborah Larson. deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or text :703-966-9474

Resources :

Info from tonight's City Briefing :
The causeway is on schedule to open on October 21 for city residents only that have a 2021 or 2022 pass (2016 will not be accepted) or a driver's license with a Sanibel address, but city officials caution you it is still an uninhabitable island with no power, water or sewer yet, nor any ground transportation. The landscape has vastly changed so please be prepared not only for long waits but also the emotional and physical toll it may take. Be prepared for waits of several hours in line to get on the island.

The speed limit is now 20 miles an hour island wide.

120 portable toilets have been set up around the island, a location map will be posted on the city's website.

Be sure you have filled out the form at www.islandwater.com to have your water turned on , but only if you have already turned off your main line outside your home. They will not notify you when it is turned on, so be sure your plumbing is intact before you turn in the form. Also be sure to use dry cleaning methods on your drains when you first use them.

In regards to electricity , you will need to have a form filled out by a certified electrician that will be posted on www.mysanibel.com before they will electrify your home. If your home is over 600amps it will have to be an electrical engineer.

If you need propane for your generator, contact Blossmans, (239) 244-1529 with your name, address and tank size. They are the only propane company currently allowed on the island. You do not need to be a current customer to get it delivered to you. They has been working for parishioners.

Urban Search and Rescue's Initial assessment of property damage was not accurate in all properties, so the Army Corp of Engineers is going out tomorrow to reassessment destroyed and major designation properties.

You can watch a recording of the briefings at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10006808141248 0

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #14

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 03:08:00 GMT

Dear Friends,

1. Join us for Worship this Sunday at Peace Lutheran Church, 15840 McGregor Blvd at 11:30am followed by coffee hour .

2. Chuck Ketteman and I will be accompanying the adjustors from Church Insurance along with a representative from our restoration company to the church property tomorrow for the ongoing assessment. Work will begin as soon as the equipment arrives by barge; just a reminder that no parishioners should be in the buildings on the church property.

3. Coming next week, Friday Oct. 21, “ After The Storm - Taking Care of Ourselves and Each Other ”. Please join Rev. Suzy Post for a gathering, and support time where we can share and listen to each other. Please come and share your story in a safe, trusting prayerful place.- Friday, October 21, 10:00 a.m. Peace Lutheran Church, 15840 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, Fl. 33908

4. Staff will be sitting at tables in the fellowship hall at Peace after the service on Sunday to answer any questions you have, conduct any business, and be a "drop off" or "pick up" station. If you have any office, parish nurse, finance or communication questions, this is great way to get them answered!

5. Unless there is important breaking news, there won't be a Moving Forward Update on Fridays (Susan will publish the Friday Brief instead) or on Sundays.

6. If you have items to donate , please drop them off at the Kiwanis Thrift Shop at the corner of San Carlos and Summerlin. They are giving items away to those in need.

Resources :

Info from tonight's City Briefing : Sue spent time at the Crowne Plaza this afternoon and tonight and highly suggests that if you are in town and have a question or concern to go the temporary city hall . The Mayor, City Manager, City Councilors and City staff are all there and available before and after the 5:00pm briefing to answer questions. We owe a debt of gratitude to this dedicated city employees who in the midst of dealing with their own personal losses are working very hard on our behalf.

Some items for Sanibel Residents :
1. Residents, especially those who are older are experiencing health issues if they go on island and not realize how physically demanding it can be. You need to stay hydrated and be very careful walking in the slippery silt that is present.

2. You can watch the recording of each night's briefing https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068081412480 Tonight there was an in-depth update from LCEC. Before any home is energized, they will need to have a certificate from a licensed electrician that has checked the home.

3. Hybrid, electric and fuel cell vehicles are designed to be safe in the water, even when fully submerged. However, submersion in water (especially salt water) can damage low- and high-voltage components, resulting in an electrical short and potential fire once the vehicle is no longer submerged. Sanibel Fire is asking that any resident that left an electric vehicle, including golf carts in or near property to contact Greta Fulkerson by email ( gfulkerson@sanibelfire.com ) with the following information: Name, phone number, address, type(s) of vehicle(s) on property.

4. The City has issued “ Sanibel Guidance for Assisting Residents with LCEC Power Activation ” for properties where flood waters may have affected a structure’s electrical system. Please click here to view the document.

5. The City has issued “ Sanibel Guidance for Construction-Related Work That May be Completed Without a Building Permit ” to inform residents about work that may be completed without a building permit. Please click here to view the document.

6. Mail Pick up for Sanibel, Captiva and Fort Myers Beach residents is now at : Jetport Loop Mail Facility (14080 Jetport Loop, Fort Myers) Hours: 9:00am – 4:00pm, Monday – Saturday. So far ourselves and others we know have not had any mail yet when going to pick it up, so it might be awhile longer and no necessary to go every day.

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #13

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 06:32:36 GMT

Dear Friends,

1. Our Restoration company is working on a strategy and the process of moving some of their equipment and crews to the church property via barge. This will enable them to secure the property and begin the drying process. More pictures will be posted on the website tomorrow. With the good news that the causeway will be opening on October 21 that will greatly improve their ability to work on the recovery process before the restoration begins.

Click here to see video of the Convoy arriving on Sanibel.
Click here to see video of the convoy driving on Periwinkle.

2. Zooms This Week : A reminder of the Thursday Bible Study tomorrow (at a special time this week 11:00am). Join by Zoom ~ ID#: 930 4599 7623 https://zoom.us/j/93045997623

AND
Evening Prayer Meeting ID: 835 8757 2066 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8358757206 6
Phone-in (no video): 1-646-931-3860 ID: 835 8757 2066

3. Join us for Worship this Sunday at Peace Lutheran Church, 15840 McGregor Blvd at 11:30am followed by coffee hour .

4. Coming next week, Friday Oct. 21, Suzy Post will facilitating a group; a time to be together, to support each other through listening and sharing our stories. “ After Ian, caring for ourselves and each other ..” It will be held at Peace Lutheran and the time will be announced in the Friday brief. We are deeply grateful to Peace Lutheran and their willingness to host us.

5. Housing Update from Deb Larson : We continue to look for HAVES and WANTS among our parishioners for TEMPORARY HOUSING. If you HAVE a spare room in your home, please provide your Name, Address, contact email and cell number and size of space and number of persons you can accommodate. Also, please state whether you will allow pets and how you feel about smokers. If you NEED temp housing, Please state your name, contact email and cell, the number of people in your group and approximately what your anticipated length of stay. (We realize that this will be difficult to estimate, but best guess will be fine.) Please email to : deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or please text to : 703-966-9474

As of October 6, we had three requests for housing..so far no offers to accommodate or house. If you even have an extra room or a property that survived Ian(condo or home) that could house someone even for a short time, we do have a great need. Snowbirds, if you have not yet returned and your property is available, this is a perfect use for it! Many thanks in advance for your your kindness and generosity. If you have need of accommodations for a night or two or three while you check on your home, one of our parishioners can offer a room in their home in South Ft Myers. Please text or email Deborah Larson. deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or text :703-966-9474

Resources :

Important Info from tonight's City Briefing : If you have any electric powered vehicle on your property on Sanibel, a car or golf cart, please call the Sanibel Fire Department right away as they need to inspect them due to the fire risk. 239-472-5525

Operation Blue Roof is active in your county. Deadline to apply is October 23. This is a FREE, NO COST program, where a contractor installs a fiber-reinforced, industrial-strength sheeting to protect storm-damaged roofs until homeowners can make permanent repairs. You can sign-up three ways: Call 888-766-3258; visit Blueroof.us; or go to the mobile sign-up location.

Mail Pick up for Sanibel, Captiva and Fort Myers Beach residents is now at : Jetport Loop Mail Facility (14080 Jetport Loop, Fort Myers) Hours: 9:00am – 4:00pm, Monday – Saturday

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #12

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 00:23:59 GMT

The cross still hangs, the candles haven't moved from the back altar and the children's chapel heart prayers box still sits on the altar.

Dear Friends,

Representatives from FP Restoration who were contracted by our church insurance visited St. Michael's today. Damage from water intrusion is significant but the buildings appear to be structurally sound. They will begin working immediately to secure the property, dry the buildings to prevent further damage, salvage what can be saved, and develop a plan for the restoration. We were able to retrieve all the silver chalices and other vessels, vestments and a few stoles by a beach wagon and then walked to a boat. These are already being cleaned and restored with the help of parishioners. More items will be taken out by the restoration team. Chuck Ketteman and I will be back on the property on Friday with the insurance adjustors. The Memorial Garden fared very well, only one occupied niche was compromised; and that family will be notified. The scope of the damage prohibits us from using any volunteers; please stay out of the buildings, there are health and safety hazards. It is not safe to be in the buildings and we are thankful we have professionals with the proper equipment on the job. More pictures will be published; but just wanted to give you a quick update on the day.

Housing Update from Deb Larson: We continue to look for HAVES and WANTS among our parishioners for TEMPORARY HOUSING. If you HAVE a spare room in your home, please provide your Name, Address, contact email and cell number and size of space and number of persons you can accommodate. Also, please state whether you will allow pets and how you feel about smokers. If you NEED temp housing, Please state your name, contact email and cell, the number of people in your group and approximately what your anticipated length of stay. (We realize that this will be difficult to estimate, but best guess will be fine.) Please email to : deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or please text to : 703-966-9474

As of October 6, we had three requests for housing..so far no offers to accommodate or house. If you even have an extra room or a property that survived Ian(condo or home) that could house someone even for a short time, we do have a great need. Snowbirds, if you have not yet returned and your property is available, this is a perfect use for it! Many thanks in advance for your your kindness and generosity. If you have need of accommodations for a night or two or three while you check on your home, one of our parishioners can offer a room in their home in South Ft Myers. Please text or email Deborah Larson. deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or text :703-966-9474

Resources:
Operation Blue Roof is active in your county. Deadline to apply is October 23. This is a FREE, NO COST program, where a contractor installs a fiber-reinforced, industrial-strength sheeting to protect storm-damaged roofs until homeowners can make permanent repairs. You can sign-up three ways: Call 888-766-3258; visit Blueroof.us ; or go to the mobile sign-up location.

Mail Pick up has been moved for Sanibel, Captiva and Fort Myers Beach residents to JetLoop Park by the airport.

The Causeway was opened today for emergency trucks; we saw a line of electric vehicles going over, and it was just announced it will be open by October 21 for Sanibel residents and recovery and restoration vehicles.

Peace,
Bill+

Moving Forward Update #11

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 19:21:36 GMT

Dear Friends,

A big day tomorrow so this will be a short update. Just wanted to share some good news.

First, we had a wonderful gathering of almost 90 parishioners at our temporary home at Peace Lutheran Church on McGregor yesterday, followed by an update by staff and then coffee hour hosted by the good people of Peace Lutheran. How wonderful to see so many in person, share hugs and moments of gratitude and goodness in the midst of this challenging time. You can watch the service and update here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQAy3Kv3xNU

We got the word that Church Insurance has contracted with one of Florida's leading full-service emergency clean-up, mold remediation, restoration, and repair companies and they will be on the property starting tomorrow! After talking with the director, I am impressed with their plan to first assess the integrity and condition of the structures, secure the property and then start salvaging anything that is still in good condition or can be restored or repaired. They will have contractors on site all this week, get portable power going and get the ordering of materials underway, We had a plan to use volunteers to try and go in, but have switched to letting this professional company do the job for us; they have the large experienced crews and equipment needed to get the job done quickly and safely. Thanks to generous parishioners who are sharing a boat and experienced captain to help with this important step until the company can get their barges in with equipment and labor. We will be taking lots of photos and videos to share around the whole campus, including the Memorial Garden which we haven't been able to see yet.

I have also asked Chuck Ketteman to be the point person for working with the insurance company. He has vast business experience and I greatly appreciate him saying yes to this important task. If anyone has experience with commerical insurance, please contact Chuck.

More good news; the Hurricane Relief Fund is now at $ $28,395 = $18,395 + $10,000 match We are only
$1,605 from the second $10,000 match. Thank you to all who have contributed and/or spread the word on the fund – www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org Donations are accepted online or checks can be made out to St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund and mailed to Susan Gonzalez's home at 10436 Peso Del Rio Drive, Fort Myers, FL 3390

Resources: The city of Sanibel did not have a briefing today, so I'll just remind everyone that there are several FEMA disaster sites set up around the area and they have a wealth of information and assistance to provide. Consider stopping by to learn more to help you or a neighbor or friend.

Lakes Regional Library, 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919
A LeeTran shuttle will run from the Kelly Road Soccer Complex, 10750 Kelly Road to the center. The shuttle is free and will run continuously, beginning at 8 a.m. daily.
Fort Myers DMS Building, 2295 Victoria Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901

Please pray for the health and safety of all who who are working on the island. Remember if you are going to the island, please be safe, and bring water and a first aid kit. After being on the island several times, I urge you to use abundant caution, drink plenty of water and be very careful as there are many hazards.

Peace, Bill+

Moving Forward Update #10

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 06:17:08 GMT

Dear Friends,

Join us for St. Michael and All Angels worship and fellowship tomorrow morning, at Peace Lutheran Church, 15840 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers on Sunday, October 9 at 11:30am, followed by fellowship and an update in their Good Samaritan Hall . Some of the staff and I met via zoom with Rev. Andreas Stein and he could not have been more gracious and excited to welcome us to their facility. Please spread the word about tomorrow!

Because more people now have internet access, I encourage you to go to the website and review the past daily Moving Forward Updates with lots of important information and resources for you, including the link where you can view last night's all parish zoom gathering.

Photos of the damage done to the church buildings are available on our website, https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/hurricane-ian . But no storm could damage the church of St. Michael and All Angels- the people. As more people are visiting the island to inspect their homes and business, please remember that no one should visit the campus, try to enter the building or do any cleanup . It is imperative for the claims process that the special disaster team from Church Insurance be the first ones to do initial clean up to access the buildings, determine if the structures can be safely entered, and then be the first ones to enter. We know many people are ready to help, and there will definitely be a time to do so, but please allow the insurance team and church leadership to do their initial assessment which will hopefully be in the next few days.

TEMPORARY HOUSING . If you HAVE a spare room in your home, please provide you Name, Address, contact email and cell number and size of space and number of persons you can accommodate. Also, please state whether you will allow pets and how you feel about smokers. If you NEED temp housing, Please state your name, contact email and cell, the number of people in your group and approximately what your anticipated length of stay. (We realize that this will be difficult to estimate, but best guess will. Be fine.). Please email to : deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or please text to : 703-966-9474

Hurricane Relief Fund Please spread the word on the fund – www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org Checks can be made out to St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund and mailed to Susan Gonzalez's home at 10436 Peso Del Rio Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908

Resources : (please know Sue adds new resources every day after the Sanibel city briefing, we really encourage you to watch them by going to the City of Sanibel FaceBook page. They are starting at 5pm. They share a wealth of information and you can watch it after the fact as well. The City of Sanibel continues to provide updates about the City's response to Hurricane Ian via Facebook Live. Click here to watch the live feed. The Facebook Live update will stream at 5:00pm today, Saturday, October 8. Please be advised a Facebook account is not necessary to view the live update. To watch Facebook Live without creating a Facebook account, go to https://www.facebook.com/live .

1. Several agencies and resources are set up at the Lake Library at 15290 Bass Road, open 9-6 daily . Lee County has set up a 1 stop location for many entities to assist you as well as the FEMA Disaster center. You can also go to leegov.com/storm as well.
2. Starting tomorrow you can operate a vehicle that is already on the island, but you cannot bring a vehicle to the island by any means and there is no gas and you must have a hurricane pass hanging from the rear window.
3. Amazing progress is being made on the causeway and with utilities.
4. Contractors can begin arriving by private barges on Monday to work on mitigation efforts on homes, not demo or reconstruction, under certain restrictions that will be announced tomorrow. They cannot use the public docks.
5. From the City of Sanibel:
Earlier today, FEMA issued a lengthy news release detailing the federal assistance to Hurricane Ian survivors since the federal disaster declaration. The various forms of assistance include temporary housing; essential home repairs; and other uninsured and underinsured disaster-related losses .

Among the key messages are the following:

FEMA will pay hotel and motel costs for eligible survivors from counties hardest hit by Hurricane Ian. Yesterday, FEMA and the state of Florida activated the Transitional Shelter Assistance Program, providing eligible support for survivors in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties. FEMA makes these payments directly to participating hotel and motels in Alabama, Florida and Georgia that provide emergency shelter to survivors.

FEMA and its state partners are now operating five Disaster Recovery Centers across the state. Centers are open in Collier, Charlotte and Sarasota counties, with two centers operating in Lee County. More centers are planned to open over the next few days. Centers are accessible offices staffed by state, federal and volunteer organizations that let everyone access recovery information. As centers are added, real-time locations will be updated at FloridaDisaster.org

Disaster Unemploymen t Assistance is available to eligible survivors. Floridians should file a claim for loss of income caused by Hurricane Ian by going to Disaster Unemployment Assistance – FloridaJobs.org and selecting “Apply for Hurricane Ian DUA,” visiting a local CareerSource Career Center, or calling 800-385-3920. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.

Operation Blue Roof is a free service to homeowners and is currently operating in Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee and Sarasota counties. Residents impacted by Hurricane Ian can sign up at BlueRoof.us or call toll-free at 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258) for more information. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.

National Flood Insurance Program Florida policyholders who had flood damage from the hurricane now have a 90-day window to renew their policies. The extension applies to policies with renewal dates beginning Aug. 25 through Oct. 23. Policyholders whose policy renewal date is in this range should contact their agent or insurance company. FEMA also extended the proof of loss requirement for flood insurance policyholders in Florida who suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian from 60 to 365 days.

To read the full press release from FEMA, click here .
If you are in town, hope to see you tomorrow at Peace Lutheran!

Peace, Bill+

Moving Forward Update #9

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 12:09:23 GMT

Dear Friends,

Wonderful news this morning as we learned that Shell Point now has power ! We have many residents there and I'm sure they are rejoicing in light and a/c tonight!

Because more people now have internet access, I encourage you to go to the website and review the past daily Moving Forward Updates with lots of important information and resources for you, including the link where you can view last night's all parish zoom gathering.

More wonderful news; as announced earlier today, we will be gathering in person this weekend at Peace Lutheran Church, 15840 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers on Sunday, October 9 at 11:30am . They are excited to welcome us and do whatever they can to be Christ for their neighbor. We are grateful for the churches from various denominations that have reached out to offer whatever they can for their fellow believers. Thanks to Temporary Location Team Chair Suzy Post for working on this. I will be visiting with them on Saturday and I'll take care of getting the ministers we need once I see the layout, then I will be talking with the schedulers for the various ministries to get schedules going moving forward.

The good news keeps rolling from the Housing Team Chair Deb Larson: We are looking for HAVES and WANTS among our parishioners for TEMPORARY HOUSING . If you HAVE a spare room in your home, please provide you Name, Address, contact email and cell number and size of space and number of persons you can accommodate. Also, please state whether you will allow pets and how you feel about smokers. If you NEED temp housing, Please state your name, contact email and cell, the number of people in your group and approximately what your anticipated length of stay. (We realize that this will be difficult to estimate, but best guess will. Be fine.). Please email to: deblarsonrealestate@gmail.com or please text to : 703-966-9474

Hurricane Relief Fund Please spread the word on the fund – www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org Checks can be made out to St. Michael's Hurricane Relief Fund and mailed to Susan Gonzalez's home at 10436 Peso Del Rio Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908

Office –
church office number is forwarded to a separate line at Susan’s house- if you have simple questions, need information, or need a link please call the church office, as much as we love to talk to you, our plates are full, so it would be helpful if you could utilize the church office phone number and Susan as much as possible for basic information. Wanda will be coming to Susan’s home on Tuesdays to work from there. Financial questions should be directed to Susan temporarily. Church mail is being forwarded to Susan's home .
Staff will be working from home for the present time .
People have asked- how can we help? We could use office supplies to get our mobile offices running . Perhaps you have some of these items at home or are near a place where you could get them. To get us up and running quickly, see below for the items needed. Or as an alternative if you would like to donate a gift card to Office Depot or Staples, Susan could purchase what we need. Please contact Susan G if you have these items
a color laser printer for Susan to use- (even in the short term and she could swap you with a slower printer she has)
A printer for Sue and I - again a gently used one or new one and some cartridges
file folders
pocket folders
Toner/ink for Epson Stylus NX110
Copy Paper letter size and some legal as well (but Susan could order so not a priority)
Webcam.
Letter size file folders
In addition, for us - Basic office supplies- scrap paper, stapler, tape, scissors, pens, spiral notebooks, legal pads etc (we don't need a lot, just to get us started since we are in a rental condo without basics like that.

Resources : (please know Sue adds new resources every day after the Sanibel city briefing, we really encourage you to watch them by going to the City of Sanibel FaceBook page. They were starting at 6:30pm but today started at 5pm. They share a wealth of information and you can watch it after the fact as well.

1. There is now a huge village of helpful agencies and resources set up at the Lake Library at 15290 Bass Road, open 9-6 daily . Lee County has set up a 1 stop location for several agencies to assist you as well as the FEMA Disaster center. You can also go to leegov.com/storm as well. They have:

You can get local and state documents, driver's license, birth certificate and other lost documents
apply for disaster assistance money that will be directly deposited in your account with a few days
get help filing your FEMA flood insurance claim.
apply for the US Army Corp of Engineers blue tarp program if you are a PRIMARY resident and have 50% percent or less roof damage, you can grant access to them to go on your property, access your roof damage and tarp it for you.
mental health resources
wireless carriers
nonprofit distribution centers
immediate help with living expenses

2. The FEMA regional coordinator from Atlanta joined via zoom and offered lots of good information on flood insurance claims; here are some important highlights:

Take as many photos as possible, hundred's not a few and inventory all damage, if you have brand names, descriptions, and an estimate of how old items are
you can and should remove wet carpeting, furniture, mattresses, etc, anything that is wet but take photos before you take out and then of the pile outside. Do not put it by the curb, but put it on the side or back of the house until the insurance adjustor gets there.
If you live on Sanibel, there will be an extension to the deadline to attempt to mitigate mold since you are not able to get to the island. When you are able, remove carpeting, drywall if the damage is only up part of the wall, etc, BUT save sections for FEMA. Put them in a ziploc bag.
Advance payments are available to help get you started, accepting this doesn't mean your claim is closed. You will get proof of loss to acknowledge their estimate and you can go back and ask for an increase.
If you have to live in a rental, and have private FEMA policies, they will cover rental expenses, if you have NIFP FEMA policies it will not but some homeowner policies will, so check with your agent!
Homeowners are still expected to provide boat transportation for your adjustor at this point.

On a personal note, the Lord heard your prayers for us and Bill was able to see our home and we were spared the surge entering the first level; it stopped 2 steps from the house in the garage, with water only damaging the garage, car, crawlspace and back yard. There are so many with more severe damage that we continue to hold in our hearts. Hope to see those in the local area at St. Michael's Mainland church this Sunday at Peace Lutheran at 11:30am.

Peace, Bill+ and Sue

Moving Forward Update #8

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 12:34:52 GMT

Dear Friends,
What a joy to see 75 screens filled with faces and voices at our all parish zoom this afternoon. We know many of you would have loved to be there but still do not have the ability to do so, so the gathering was recorded and you can watch it at a later time by clicking on this link. https://youtu.be/5At-Cv8Dk0A Please note this is a private link. You need this link in order to view the video, it is not a public video, but is intended for parishioners. For those that can't watch videos yet, here is a brief summary:
Thursday October 5, 2022 zoom

I opened with prayer and announced the first gathering of St. Michael's in Fort Myers and then introduced Bishop Doug Scharf who joined us to offer his and Bishop Smith's support and the support of the entire diocese. 17 Episcopal parishes were effected by Ian, some more severely than others and he pledged continuing prayers and support in whatever way is needed. We did not want to focus on the war stories of the event, so as not to etch the trauma into our minds, but instead look forward to celebrate that the church is alive. Yes, the church buildings have sustained extensive damage, but not the church. The church is the people and I see the strong community of St. Michael's being the leaders in bringing the community of Sanibel back. Bishop Smith also just released a special message: https://vimeo.com/757298685
Accounting of all people
As far as we know, all parishioners are accounted for. Praise God! That is the most important update of all!
It’s about people not stuff.
People ask “what about the church?” And I say, "the church is alive and hasn’t missed a beat, are you asking about the church building?" More about the church buildings later…but I want to honor the memory of Jerry McCullough, who passed away last Thursday and took care of our insurance for many years. Because of his dedication and experience, we are in a very good position with insurance coverage.
We WILL gather together this weekend! We are working out final details and based on when power comes back we will either gather indoor or if necessary outdoors, but we will gather! When the information comes out, we ask for all of you to help spread the word, call, text and/or drive or walk over to other parishioners if you can do so safely and give them the information and perhaps offer a ride.
Tuesday Men’s Fellowship, Tuesday Prayer Shawl, and Thursday bible study will start next week but we need people to help those without internet by texting them the phone number for each zoom.
Here is the ZOOM link for tomorrow's Thursday Evening Prayer
Meeting ID: 835 8757 2066
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83587572066 Phone-in (no video):1-646-931-386 Enter Meeting ID: 835 8757 2066
Moving Forward Task Force – What God Unites nothing can separate, love triumphs over all - will be chaired by Jerry Davenport- who has previously worked as a diocesan disaster coordinator We have several teams already with chairs. If you would like to volunteer for a team, please contact Susan Gonzalez by emailing or calling her at the church office number.
Pastoral Care Team- Joanne Syversen (limited tech right now)and Wendy Warner
Communications - Sue Van Oss
Temporary Location Team- Suzy Post
Short and Long Term Housing Team- Deb Larson and cochair
Property- Chuck Sterrett
Outreach to Sanibel community – Cindy Brown and cochair
Supplies - ?
Hurricane Relief Fund
please spread the word on the fund – www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org
See below for today's figures
Office –
church office number is forwarded to a separate line at Susan’s house- if you have simple questions, need information, or need a link please call the church office, as much as we love to talk to you, our plates are full, so it would be helpful if you could utilize the church office phone number and Susan as much as possible for basic information. Wanda will be coming to Susan’s home on Tuesdays to work from there. Financial questions should be directed to Susan temporarily. Church mail is being forwarded to Susan's home.
Staff will be working from home for the present time.
People have asked- how can we help? We could use office supplies to get our mobile offices running. Perhaps you have some of these items at home or are near a place where you could get them. To get us up and running quickly, see below for the items needed. Or as an alternative if you would like to donate a gift card to Office Depot or Staples, Susan could purchase what we need. Please contact Susan G if you have these items

a color laser printer for Susan to use- (even in the short term and she could swap you with a slower printer she has)
A printer for Sue and I - again a gently used one or new one and some cartridges
file folders
hanging file folders in a portable bin
pocket folders
Toner/ink for Epson Stylus NX110
Copy Paper letter size and some legal as well (but Susan could order so not a priority)
Webcam.
Letter size file folders
In addition, for us - Basic office supplies- post it notes, scrap paper, stapler, tape, scissors, pens, spiral notebooks, legal pads etc (we don't need a lot, just to get us started since we are in a rental condo without basics like that)

Self Care- I encourage each of you to take care of yourself; those who were physically present during the hurricane have suffered emotional and mental trauma, in addition to the physical losses and it has effected those who weren't there as well. The anxiety of not knowing the status of your home is taxing… helping others can be exhausting, so please put your oxygen mask on first before you put other people’s masks on.

In order to sustain our energy and our physical, mental and spiritual health Sue and I need to take care of ourselves. We need to have a day of rest so Fridays will be our day of rest. Suzy Post will be available on Fridays so if you have a pastoral issue please contact her, otherwise you can contact Susan on Fridays.

Building Update – It is far too dangerous for anyone to attempt to get to the campus right now and I do not want anyone to attempt it. When the city has given the okay, we have a team and boat ready to inspect the buildings. The insurance adjustors have to examine the building before anything is moved/cleaned and the team will go in with them before anyone else can enter. Under no circumstance is anyone to enter the buildings at this time, it is dangerous and detrimental to do so. Someone who was on the island got some photos which we shared, and the church building did sustain extensive damage and by the water lines inside it probably came up 4-5 feet.. Unfortunately the front door of the new office building was blown out so water came in up to about 5 feet and the ark roof was taken off and will most likely have to be torn down. But again I want to reiterate the the church is people, not the buildings, as beloved as they were. We will rebuild and be even stronger in our community.

10 I concluded the gathering with a prayer.

Other updates:
Suzy Post will have Evening Prayer via zoom this Thursday at 6pm. Link was sent out.
Resources: (please know Sue adds new resources every day, so if you just getting online now, go back and look at previous emails or go to the home page of the website and click on "view daily hurricane updates".

St. Michael’s United in Love Hurricane Relief Fund In just a few days we have received $10,780.00 which means the first $10,000 match donation has kicked in, so our total is now $20,780. Thank you! Please continue to share the fund information.
Comcast is going to suspend billing for Sanibel, Captiva and pine island. You don’t need to contact them to put your service on hold or suspend it. They will not bill us until we can get back home.
Vehicle Damage- For vehicles that sustained damage, Tire Kingdom in Fort Myers is offering free flat repair and free service checks on battery, brakes, alignment, tire pressure and wiper fluid top off until October 14

Peace, Bill+ and Sue

Moving Forward Update #7

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 12:48:21 GMT

Dear Friends,
On a personal note, we have just arrived back in Fort Myers and to the condo we had evacuated to; thanks to the generosity of Julie Vergin. We are not hopeful for our home on Sanibel so we are very grateful to her for letting us stay here until January. We also appreciate the support of many friends and family who have reached out and are "helping the helpers."

1. All parish zoom tomorrow A reminder of the all parish zoom tomorrow, Wednesday, October 4 at 4pm. EST We know some in the area will not be able to join us due to power/internet still being out, but wanted to get started with connecting us together again with as many as can attend. Those without internet but have power can join us over the phone. Please let people who might not be checking emails know about this. You can text those without internet the call in phone number.

Zoom link was emailed to parishioners and not published here so that it will be just attended by parishioners.

We will email out and post here a summary of the updates discussed at the zoom in tomorrow evening's update.

2. In person gathering this weekend- We are also planning for a gathering this weekend and will pass along the details as we know more. Thanks to Suzy Post for heading up the Temporary Location Team.

3. Prayer Shawl, Bible Study and Men's Fellowship will all be having their online gatherings next week.

4. Suzy Post will have Evening Prayer via zoom this Thursday at 6pm. Link coming tomorrow

Resources:
1. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) will be opening on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022, for limited commercial flight operations.

The initial hours of operation for security checkpoints at RSW will be between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., with flights operating between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Due to the impacts from Hurricane Ian, please use caution and leave extra time to get to the airport. The roadways at RSW are open.
Some of the many amenities you have come to expect at RSW may not be available when we first open. Concessions will have limited food and beverage and other items may be in short supply.
Airport Plaza gas station and the 7-Eleven convenience store are open but may have limited supplies.
The airport is not a public shelter. We ask that only people traveling come to the airport.

2. One-way shuttle services are being offered from Hertz Arena to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Miami International Airport. The shuttle service is $35 per person, and each shuttle holds up to 55 people. You do need to register, and it is on a first come-first served basis. Long-term parking is not permitted at Hertz Arena. The shuttle schedule will continue until further notice.

3. QUESTIONS REGARDING DEBRIS? – Contact the Hurricane Ian Debris Hotline at (800) 375-0844.

4. Lamar Advertising Company has activated its Tarp Team program to distribute billboard vinyls for use as temporary roof coverings in Fort Myers, FL.

Those affected can go to 14580 Global Parkway in Fort Myers to get a vinyl billboard ranging in size from 200 to 700 square feet from 9am – 5pm on October 3 and 4. Volunteers are on hand distributing the billboards on-site at no charge.

5. Verizon is offering free charging stations and Internet access to residents in Fort Myers, regardless of their carrier.

.2525 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL (open beginning Oct 4. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

6. Comcast Xfinity is providing free internet connectivity with Xfinity WiFi vans. The vans will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice. They are available at these locations:

Hertz Arena at 11000 Everblades Parkway in Estero. The Xfinity WiFi van is the parking lot on the south end of the Arena.
Fleamasters Flea Market located at 4135 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive in Ft Myers. The Xfinity WiFi Van is in front of the building when you enter at the main entrance.

7. Postal Service -Customers normally served by the Captiva, Fort Myers Beach, and Sanibel Main Post Offices should temporarily pick up their mail at the Six Mile Cypress Annex Building, 14651 Ben C. Pratt/6 Mile Cypress Pkwy. Hours for pick up are 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and closed Sunday. Customers must present a photo ID for mail pick-up. Retail services are available at the Mobile Retail Unit at the Six Mile Cypress Annex parking lot, 14651 Ben C. Pratt/6 Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33912. Retail hours are 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays, and closed Sunday. Customers normally served by the Downtown Fort Myers Post Office can obtain retail services at the Page Field Post Office, 2655 N. Airport Road, Fort Myers, FL 33907. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekdays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays, closed Sunday.8.Fort Myers Beach is closed to the public for the next week, effective immediately. The area will be closed to make time for search and rescue operations, according to the Fort Myers Beach Fire District .

A Prayer For the People

God of healing and mercy, we come before you with our hearts filled with grief as we see the devastation.
We pray that your presence would be felt by those who are grieving, who are injured, who have lost their homes and livelihoods.
We pray for wisdom and safety for those who are responding to the people in need and the many challenges left in the wake of this event.
We pray for the people of St. Michael's, that we may be a witness to your compassion, love and care for all who suffer even as we face our own challenges.
God, you are our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. For this we give you thanks and ask that you hear our prayers for all the people of Southwest Florida, the island community of Sanibel and the church family of St. Michael and All Angels In Jesus name we pray... Amen.
- Adopted from a prayer of the Mennonite World Conference

Peace, Bill+

Moving Forward Update #6

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 12:52:01 GMT

Important information for Sanibel residents:

Thanks to Wendy Warner who attended the City of Sanibel meeting. She has provided the notes below to assist residents. The key take away from the meeting was that although they are allowing residents with proper identification to arrive via private boats to check on their homes starting tomorrow; it is very dangerous to do so. You need to be in top physical condition, able to climb through and over debris and withstand extreme conditions if you are going to attempt this. It is hazardous boating and on land conditions. All city and county officials emphasized that they do not think it is safe at this time to try and navigate by water to the island and be on the island. This is not just a one day opportunity, it will be daily so consider waiting and hearing from other residents what their experience is attempting this before you do so.

Inspecting the church buildings Although plans were ready for a team to inspect the buildings and attempt to salvage some things, we will not be attempting it at this time. As soon as it is safer to do so, we are ready to go. The distance from where a boat could possibly land and then the team walk to the property is too great and too dangerous. We give thanks to God that as far as we know, no parishioners have died due to the hurricane; we will not put any lives at risk in order to view the damage at this point. We have been getting reports on the property and will be getting the status from the city in the next day. We will be sending out a separate email regarding that very soon. Again, your health and well being is our top concern, so please consider the information below before you make a decision to go to the island.

Notes from Wendy:

Residents attempting to get on island Here are the facts-You can go on island by private boat to a private dock or beach a boat starting October 5 and then daily after that. They are not providing any transportation to or on the island. No one will be allowed to use the public dock. This is at your own risk and it is very dangerous on the island. Curfew starts at 7pm until 7am, you can not stay overnight. You can go in canals, but waterways have lots of debris and channel markers are missing, access to them will be monitored by police or national guard. There will be checkpoints at the entrances to neighborhoods by police and national guard troops. Entry by water is done at your own risk, even the waters getting to the island are full of above and underwater debris that could disable a boat.

Island Conditions The fire chief and several council members who have been on the island reiterated how devastating the damage is and how dangerous the island is right now. The roads currently have sharp objects like nails, glass, alligators and snakes. Roads have one passable lane but that does not mean you will be able to get to your home without climbing over large piles of debris and navigating around other hazards. You should have an up to date tetanus shot as the likelihood you will be injured is high. They suggest, heavy shoes or boots, gloves, bug spray, sunscreen, safety glasses, respirator and even a walking stick for balance on mud, all roads are covered in silt which is like walking on ice. Be aware there is no cell service and if you injured there is no way for them to help you. There are more fatalities after a storm like this than during it.

Information on each property What is very important is they have done a data collection of one structure at a time and have marked each safe, unsafe, limited safe. They have taken on the ground pictures which will show a very different view of structures than the arial photos. They suggested to wait to see the data on structures before deciding if you even want to attempt to come on the island. They hope this will be up tomorrow Tuesday and if not then Wednesday on www.mysanibel.com . The worst damage was along East, Middle and West Gulf, where the majority of homes were deemed unsafe. On Wednesday appraisers can go on as long as they are accompanied with someone who has either the hurricane pass or a driver's license with Sanibel address on it. I asked the question if a Sanibel resident was not able to be there (or out of Towner's), would they allow them to go to the structure alone and the answer was they had to work that part out.

Update on recovery efforts: Tomorrow, there is heavier equipment coming tomorrow to clear roads better. Currently, there is a one car lane. Ding Darling staff helped clear down SanCap road. LCEC is bringing trucks. Currently the substation is de energized and many poles down or broken. They are working on water and sewer. Fire station is the first place they are trying to get up. 1 engine is available on island and an ambulance will be arriving once roads are clear. Vehicles on island are restricted and must be approved by city government.

Other important information from the council meeting:

Bridge - Florida DOT and the Army Corp of Engineers are coming up with a plan to fix the causway bridge to allow traffic on and off, not to include parks. The Matlacha bridge is currently being fixed which is a much smaller job. They are working on future ferry service, but for now barges are carrying equipment over.

FEMA At Gladiolus and Bass roads they will be setting up FEMA, place to get help with insurance, to apply for small business loan. It is much easier to apply for FEMA assistance online than wait on the phone. https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual
If you have submit t ed a FEMA Claim and it is denied or there is a problem with the claim, have you FEMA Claim # available and call Congressman Bryon Donald’s office: 239-252-6225 or 239-599-6033 for assistance, but they can only help after you personally have applied and then been denied or the time frame has expired.

They are working on this and more details to follow. The Army Corps of Engineers Blue Roof section will probably be coming on island to do tarping, but the fire chief emphasized it will be extremely difficult to get tarps on roofs due to the slippery mud surrounding many of the homes, the height of homes and the number of people it takes to get a tarp on a roof.

Your mail is going to 6 Mile Cypress post office, 14651 Ben C Pratt 6 Mile Cypress Pkwy, right down from Sun Harvest, where you can go to pick up mail. As soon as possible submit a change of address form at the post office or online for your temporary housing and then when you have more permanent housing.

Moving Forward Update #5

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 22:42:56 GMT

Being A Very Real Help to One Another

St. Michael’s Hurricane Relief Fund

United in Love.

In the eye and aftermath of Ian, many of us have already personally experienced how God is a very real help in our times of need. Yes, God is right here, right now, and God is already working in and through each of us.

Many of you have expressed your longing to know how you can make a meaningful difference to the burdens of others during this challenging and difficult time. You inspired us to coordinate a way to harness how each of us can help by contributing either dollars, deeds (acts of service) or both.

In response, we have created The St. Michael’s Hurricane Relief Fund to restore our community of faith, our neighbors and our entire community to wholeness. We believe that Ian can be a catalyst to further Unite Us in Love.

Church leadership (vestry) will oversee the use of these funds for meeting the needs of our parishioners, the community and the property. Because of the magnitude of this disaster and the length of the recovery, the scope of these funds is broad. In addition to monetary gifts, we are setting up a “I have- I need” system to respond to people’s needs and to give people the opportunity to help.

Responding to this disaster is an opportunity to live the Way of Love that Christ modeled for us. As we have witnessed the heroic efforts of first responders and the military to rescue people, all the way to people delivering water to a neighbor in need, we have seen the compassion and abundant love of God in action.

So please join us by donating on our website .

And please forward this email and post on the social media platforms you use inviting others to be United in Love for our sanctuary island.

Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory to God from generation to generation in the church, and in Christ Jesus forever and ever.

Amen

Ephesians 3: 20-21

Moving Forward Update #4

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 22:55:52 GMT

Dear Friends,

A very busy day today, including breaking news that residents can get on the island on Wednesday from 7am to 7pm so this update will be very brief as we are working on details to attempt to inspect the church and retrieve what we can. Residents please watch the council meeting that aired tonight for details.

Members of the Vestry and Staff met via zoom at 9am to check in and then dive into the plan for moving forward.
Highlights included:
an accounting of parishioners with the good news that as of 10pm, we have accounted for all parishioners that we know of who were in the area, including the remaining 4 we were most worried about.
creation of a Hurricane Task Force led by Jerry Davenport with 7 initial teams formed under it; Temporary Location Team, Short and Long Term Housing Team, Pastoral Care Team, Communications, Property, Supplies and Outreach to the Island Community. Some chairs have been selected, the rest soon.
The St. Michael's United in Love Hurricane Relief Fund was created and Sue got it live by noon and within 5 minutes an anonymous donor gave $10,000 in matching funds to kickstart the campaign, 10 minutes later, 2 others jumped on like the multiplication of the loaves and fishes with $15,000 in matching funds, an amazing way to spread God's love.
Conversations with Church Insurance are ongoing and we are blessed with great coverage.

Susan is now is back online and the church office phone has been forwarded to a separate line at her home; so if you call the 239-472-2173 Susan will be able to assist you.

More power and water is being restored in Fort Myers every day, but some are still without.

Updates for those in the disaster areas dealing with damage and outages:

1. Waste Pro is resuming normal garbage routes but not recycling.
2. If you know of anyone who has a working boat, please contact us.
3. Our friend Rev. David Knight who lost his church in Katrina and has been invaluable with advice gave an inspiring sermon and talks about St. Michael's. Here is the link, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hM5ABLvTGQ

God is Our Refug e

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.

God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved;

God will help it when the morning dawns.

The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

- From Psalm 46

Blessings, Fr. Bill

UPDATE!!

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 09:40:22 GMT

St. Michael and All Angels Church
Hurricane Relief Fund
United in Love

An anonymous donor has stepped forward with the hope of inspiring an outpouring of generosity from others. The first $10,000 of gifts will be matched by their generous offer. Thank you!

Also you can now text your donation.
Text SMAA IAN to 73256
(SMAA *space* IAN)
Please follow the instructions on the text message you receive.

Being A Very Real Help To One Another

So please join us by donating on our website . Thank you!!

Please forward this email and post on the social media platforms you use inviting others to be United in Love for our sanctuary island.

Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory to God from generation to generation in the church, and in Christ Jesus forever and ever. Amen Ephesians 3: 20-21

Special Events

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 10:56:58 GMT

We have 2 special events coming up, one for our diocese and one for our parish.

This Saturday, September 24 ^th the Very Rev. Dr. Douglas Scharf will be consecrated bishop coadjutor during a service that will be held at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry will be the chief consecrator and preacher. The service begins at 11:00 a.m. The service will be livestreamed. The links can be found here. Click on one of these links to view the service:

On our diocese website at: https://www.dioswfl.org/tv.html
Directly on the Boxcast Channel at: https://boxcast.tv/view/consecration-of-the-rev-dr-douglas-f-scharf-f39rgu9qapkli67mpjj7
On Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/DioceseofSWFL
Here is the link to the diocesan website: https://www.episcopalswfl.org/

Then on Thursday, September 29 ^th we will celebrate the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels with a special service commemorating the racial integration of St. Michael’s 60 years ago. We will remember this historic event with a service of scripture, music, prayers and a special presentation by Don Adams. A reception will follow the service and include some historical items on display.

We can be proud of the decision made six decades ago that affirmed the inherent dignity of all of God’s children. There are no second-class citizens in God’s kingdom. Following Jesus, and living His Way of Love, requires treating all of God’s children, every race and color, as a beloved child of God. Fr. Madden is a shining example of putting these words into action.

Peace,

Bill+

September 29th

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:30:38 GMT

We will celebrate the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels in a special way on September 29 ^th . We will have a special service at 6:00 pm to mark the 60 ^th anniversary of St. Michael’s becoming racially integrated.

On September 29, 1962 the church held a service that was open to black people as well as white people. Fr. Madden and the leadership of St. Michael’s had decided that there should no longer be separate Sunday school and church services. The church register for that service notes: “services completely integrated first time, separate services discontinued.”

It was a bold decision at the time. No other island churches were integrated. It would be several years before other churches in our diocese, state and nation would take this step. St. Michael’s can be proud of this decision and its lasting impact on our congregation and community.

I believe it is important to remember this occasion and to celebrate it. The church does not always get it right. People have been excluded and hurt, sometimes at the hand of the church’s leaders and as a result of the church’s policies. But there are times that the church gets it right.

Fr. Madden is a shining example of the church getting it right. He felt personally privileged to engage in ministry with people that other churches were very comfortable excluding. Fr. Madden knew that following Jesus and living His Way of Love meant respecting the dignity of every human being as being made in the image and likeness of God. That’s getting it right.

The service will include a presentation by Don Adams on some of the history of St. Michael’s, Fr. Madden, and our state and nation in 1962. Don is a gifted historian and speaker who has prepared a wonderful presentation. Many thanks to him.

The service will be a 6:00 pm on Thursday, September 29 ^th . A light reception will follow. The service will also be livestreamed.

Peace,

Bill+

The Gift of Music

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 14:43:54 GMT

I regularly pray the Daily Office using the website of the Mission of St. Clare (missionstclare.com). With one click I have the prayers, psalms, scripture readings and songs for each day. I love to pray Morning Prayer as the sun is rising over the trees. I feel connected to God and to others throughout the world who are praying the same prayers, reading the same psalms and scriptures, and singing along to the same songs. I pray for people who are sick or suffering, for those facing or recovering from surgery, for those who are struggling and in need, for those who have asked for prayers. I pray for the church, for the world, and for God’s creation. I feel deeply connected even though I am alone…

My favorite part of the service is the songs. They lift me up and inspire me. Just today, one verse of the song was: “then sing for joy, and use each day; give thanks for everything alway. Lift up your hearts; with one accord, praise God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” As I drove to the church, I was singing that verse. As I am writing these thoughts, I am singing that verse.

Being reminded to live with joy, gratitude and praise is a wonderful way to make our way though the day. There is an amazing amount of great church music, from ancient hymns to contemporary praise songs, that can bring us closer to God and each other. Sing a verse and hold it in your heart!

On that note (how’s that?) I want to say a word of thanks to our Music Director Search Committee. This group has been hard at work developing the job description that will be publicized by next week. Many thanks to Anne-Marie Bouche and Mike Baldwin for co-chairing the committee.

If you know someone who might be interested, or have connections in the music world, have them check out the information and job description on our website.

I also want to offer special thanks to Mike Baldwin for (once again) stepping up during the interim time. Mike has done a wonderful job playing, choosing music and scheduling soloists and accompanists. He helps us keep the gift of music going here at St. Michael’s!

Peace,

Bill+

Listen to your Life

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 05:53:45 GMT

Recently someone sent me an article written by Michael Gerson about Frederick Buechner. Buechner was a popular Christian apologist, preacher and novelist. Gerson reported that when Buechner was asked to summarize the single greatest insight of his prolific career, he replied: “listen to your life.”

Gerson went on:

“Life’s temptation, of course, is to move from place to place on cruise control, which means, for me, focusing on failures in the past or worries about the future. So how, some questioners would persist with Buechner, do we start getting into the habit of fully inhabiting our experience? ‘Pay attention to moments,’ Buechner said, when ‘unexpected tears come to your eyes and what may trigger them.’ He was talking about those sudden upwellings of emotion we get from the sublimity of nature or art, when we see a whale breaching, or are emotionally ambushed by a line in a film or poem. We are led toward truth and beauty by a lump in the throat.” (washingtonpost.com)

I love the thought of “getting into the habit of fully inhabiting our experience” and “(paying) attention to the moments” when unexpected tears come. It made me think of all the moving moments I have experienced during worship: a soloist singing a song that brings a tear to my eye, a passage of scripture heard in a new way, a resounding hymn sung with gusto, a smile on someone’s face at the communion rail, a child running up the aisle, an usher helping someone up, an uplifting or challenging sermon, the sweetness of the wine…

God moments. Moments when the grace of God breaks through in most ordinary, and yet profound, ways. They happen all the time, if we can free ourselves from focusing on failures or fears and listen to our lives.

Peace,

Bill+

Let Them Come

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 08:32:51 GMT

“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for it is to such as these that the Kingdom of God belongs.” (Mt. 19:14) These words of Jesus were sounding in my head last Sunday afternoon as I looked around our parish hall. It was filled with children and adults who had come for Messy Church.

I watched the adult volunteers interacting with the kids, patiently showing them how to do a craft or play a game. I saw people in the kitchen scurrying about to prepare the simple supper. I noticed a group of fathers visiting with each other, a dad showing his young son how to glue popsicle sticks into a boat, an older girl carefully stringing beads into a bracelet. A smiling Ellen Lai carrying a baby… (that may have been the highlight)

The Kingdom of God is where each and every person feels valued and loved. That’s the kind of experience we want people to have at Messy Church and every time they step through the doors at St. Michael’s. We want people to meet Jesus who is love in the flesh. They encounter him though Bible stories, songs, a plate of macaroni, friendly smiles, patient assistance, a listening ear, an encouraging word and in so many other ways.

It's a difficult world to be a kid in these days. There is a lot of pressure to conform to the ways of the world. There is bullying. Kids are picked on for being different. When they come to St. Michael’s, we want them to know one thing: they are a beloved child of God, loved by God, loved by us. Period.

What a wonderful opportunity we have to love the little children. As Children’s Chapel begins this Sunday, let’s make every child (and adult) feel precious and valued. Let’s support these parents in their sometimes challenging job of raising their children in today’s world. Do not underestimate the impact that even a small gesture; a kind word, a smile can have on someone who is new and who might be feeling a little self-conscious.

They will come to know God’s love for them through our love for them.

Peace,

Bill+

Love First

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 08:10:53 GMT

You may have heard that our monthly, Sunday afternoon church experience called “Messy Church” has been appealing to a number of families who have been attending regularly. We are excited to have just been named Messy Church of the Month through the Messy Church network. You can find that announcement here:
https://messychurchusa.org/august-2022-messy-church-of-the-month/

I want to sincerely thank Sue Van Oss and all the leaders and volunteers who have helped to make Messy Church such a success. When we undertook this effort, we began with the question: what can the church offer to families that they can’t get somewhere else? Research shows parents want their kids to be good, kind, loving people, but they sometimes have a hard time teaching that in today’s culture. Messy Church is a creative, fun, inspiring, intergenerational way to help shape and form children and adults in the Way of Love.

Now a few families are asking for some kind of children’s program on Sunday morning, and so we will be launching our Love First Children’s Chapel during the 9:30 service on Sunday morning. The children will process to the Children's Chapel (the room formerly known as the Sunday School room) at the beginning of the service. There they will experience story, songs, games, crafts and activities around the theme of love: love for God, others and self. They will return to church at the sign of peace time so they can receive communion with their family. Again, many thanks to Sue Van Oss for making this happen.

You will note that we are no longer calling it “Sunday School” because faith is not just taught in a school setting. Rather, we refer to it as Christian formation: faith formed in community. It doesn’t just happen on Sunday, but every day at home, school, work and neighborhood. Christian Formation happens through liturgy, prayer, fellowship, learning, study, service and outreach.

As it says on page 8 of the Love First guidebook:

“Children need something from us, to belong and be included, to be accepted and be loved. What the church should be offering children is exactly that, a safe place where they are loved, even if they don’t always feel lovable; where they feel included, even if they’re not sure why, where they belong, no matter what; and where they are given purpose and where their presence matters, even at a young age. School and home are not always the haven the children desperately need. Church can and should be that place by tending to their struggles as children in authentic and loving ways through a commitment to one another in our faith community, to God and to the greater community.”

The world needs more love, love for God, self, neighbor and for the earth. Love for those we know, love for those we don’t know. Love for those we like, and even love for those we don’t like. When the church is at its best, it is the place where people, young and old, can find it and be shaped and formed in the Way of Love.

Peace,

Bill+

Celebrating Alan

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 10:13:01 GMT

The Rev. Alan Kelmereit has faithfully served St. Michael’s for almost 10 years. Alan has served as Assisting Rector, Interim Rector and most recently as Assisting Priest. Alan did a fantastic job seeing the church through an interim period that included the outbreak of a global pandemic. Alan is a gifted teacher and preacher with a heart for pastoral care and healing. He has touched many lives in service at this church and others.

Recently, Alan has decided to step away from his role as Assisting Priest. Occasionally you will find Alan and Debbie in the pews, but Alan will no longer vest and serve at the altar.

We will have a special coffee hour in Alan (and Debbie’s!) honor on Sunday, August 21 ^st following the 9:30 service. Please join me in thanking Alan for his faithful ministry here at St. Michael’s.

Peace,

Bill+

Ukrainian Refugees

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 06:30:26 GMT

St. Michael’s recently received an invitation to join with Iona Hope Episcopal Church to sponsor a refugee family from the Ukraine. Vestry approved moving ahead with this last week. We will be working with Episcopal Migration Ministries “Neighbor to Neighbor” program. https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/neighbortoneighbor/ We commit to sponsor a family for up to 2 years.

Obviously, this will require fundraising. It will also require finding housing, healthcare, transportation, employment and schooling for the children. I already have several people who have offered to serve on the committee that will be working with Iona Hope on this effort. If you have any questions or are interested in being part of this (especially if you have expertise in one of the above-listed areas) please let me know.

This is an exciting opportunity to reach out and offer friendship and the love of Christ to a family in need. Let us continue to pray for the suffering people of Ukraine and all those displaced from their home and their homeland:

God our Creator: We ask for your loving presence and for your peace to be with refugees in our local communities and around the world. Be with all who are in fear. Be with those whose lives and livelihoods are under threat, and whose religious freedoms are being compromised. Be with us as we strive to enact your will in our welcome and support of refugees. Be with those in positions of leadership, that their decisions may bend toward peace and not division, and that they might realize the power they hold to do justice. Give us all strength and courage. Equip and empower us to be witnesses to your love – as advocates and as servants, as ministers of welcome and bearers of hope, especially for those seeking refuge. In your Holy name we pray. Amen (from the Refugee Community Center at the Episcopal Church of the Mediator, Allentown PA)

Peace,

Bill+

The Next Right Thing

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 08:16:36 GMT

This week a friend reminded me that the Christian life is remarkably simple. It is not easy, mind you, but it is “always about returning to the simple practice of love.”

We live in a world where we witness a lot of violence, cruelty and injustice. In our personal lives there are struggles and challenges. But we are not called to address it all at one time. We are called to do the next right thing and to take every opportunity we are given to work for the good of others, the common good.

My friend wrote: “we can only live one day, and one moment, at a time. We can only love the next person in front of us, offer our best to the next challenge, and keep bringing it all back to God’s power and grace.”

This thought really hit home as I reflected on the parable of the Good Samaritan, our Gospel reading for this Sunday. We have no idea what was going on in the Samaritan’s life the day he encountered the wounded man on the side of the road. We don’t know what he was dealing with at home or what urgent matter had him traveling on the road. What we do know is that he stopped and helped the wounded man when others had simply walked by.

He did the next right thing. He loved the person that God had put in front of him. He responded to some of the violence of our world and helped to heal a beloved child of God. He lived out God’s command to love his neighbor, and his act of loving kindness has echoed through history. All because he did the next right thing…

Peace,

Bill+

Responding in Love

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 09:41:23 GMT

The 80 ^th General Convention of The Episcopal Church begins next week in Baltimore, Maryland. General Convention happens in a spirit of prayer under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is a gathering grounded in the daily Eucharist and other times of prayer that ask God to be present and to guide the minds and hearts of all who will make important decisions for our life together.

I remember volunteering at General Convention 2003 in Minneapolis. This was the convention that approved the election of Gene Robinson as bishop of New Hampshire. Gene was the first openly gay man to be elected bishop in The Episcopal Church. I was impressed by the spirit of the convention. Bishop Robinson’s approval was not easy or without controversy, but there was a spirit of respect grounded in prayer and in the understanding that Christians can still love people with whom they disagree.

Today we face another important issue, one that the church has been grappling with since 1967, the issue of abortion. The Episcopal Church teaches that “all human life is sacred” and that there is a “tragic dimension” to all abortions. In 1988, the 69 ^th General Convention passed a statement on childbirth and abortion. You can read it here:

https://www.episcopalarchives.org/cgi-bin/acts/acts_search.pl?user_query=1994-a054

As you can see, this statement affirms the sacredness of human life. It goes on to affirm responsible family planning and the primacy of conscience in decision making. It encourages exploration of alternatives to abortion, but opposes “any legislative, executive or judicial action… that abridges the right of a woman to reach an informed decision about the termination of pregnancy or that would limit the access of a woman to safe means of acting on her decision.”

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry reminded us in his statement , “today’s decision institutionalizes inequality because women with access to resources will be able to exercise their moral judgment in ways that women [pregnant persons] without the same resources will not.”

I know that there are strong feelings on both sides of this issue. It is helpful for me to know that our church has carefully considered it in forums of prayer and respect and come to a decision that supports the primacy of conscience and a woman’s right to choose.

It is challenging to face the fact that Christians disagree with one another. But agreement isn’t required for unity. We gather each week to celebrate God’s love for all and to be equipped to listen and respond to those who are struggling and those with whom we might disagree. We must respond in love, always.

Peace,

Bill+

Noah's Ark

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 08:51:35 GMT

Noah’s Ark is truly an amazing place. I volunteered for a shift a couple of Fridays ago. I was a “bagger.” It was so great to see smiling volunteers engaging with customers. New customers were welcomed and had their questions answered. “Regulars” were greeted like it was a family reunion.

The volunteers moved around the floor putting out new items, while the customers browsed and visited. I was amazed at the number of young adults. It was nice to see that there were shoppers who were likely just getting by. Hopefully, saving on cloths and household items enables them to afford other necessities (like food).

It felt like Christian community. From the opening prayer around the table to conversations on the floor to catching up over coffee, there was a spirit of Christian fellowship. I continue to be amazed at how much good the Ark does. We all know about the impact the funds make for worthy causes, but there is so much good that happens in addition to that. So much good for our customers, volunteers and the community.

Recently a small violin was donated to the Ark. Leadership immediately began thinking about how his gift could best be used. People were contacted, and eventually a man named Isaac, who works with youth in Harlem Heights, was contacted. Isaac came to accept the gift, which will find a home with a young person in Harlem Heights.

What a wonderful story. What a great way to grow the miracle that is Noah’s Ark by asking: Who could really use this? How can we do the most good with what we have been given? How might this benefit someone in need? That is our calling as Christian people: to always be finding ways to do good for others.

I want to thank everyone who works hard to make Noah’s Ark a success. I want to especially thank the Leadership Team for all that they do to keep the Ark running smoothly. The Ark continues to do good in so many ways, and we can be very proud of that.

Peace,

Bill+

Presiding bishop calls Episcopalians to ‘A Season of Prayer for Revival’

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 08:19:43 GMT

Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry invites Episcopalians everywhere to mark the season after Pentecost with 30 days of prayer leading up to and encompassing the 80th General Convention in Baltimore, Maryland.

“A Season of Prayer for Revival”—from June 12 through July 11—will feature daily prayers drawn from the Book of Common Prayer. Individuals can sign up online to receive the prayers and inspirational messages via email. The prayers will also be posted daily on social media accounts for The Episcopal Church and Forward Movement.

Downloadable bulletin inserts are available for congregational use. All materials are in Spanish and English.

“As we move toward and adapt to a shorter, smaller General Convention, I invite every Episcopalian—whether you’re in Baltimore or Alaska or Honduras, whether you’re a deputy, a bishop, or a new member sitting in the pews—I invite all of us to pause each day just for a moment to pray for the expansive, reviving power of the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts and minds,” Curry said. “We are people of common prayer; may we embrace this season as an opportunity for us all to become a church that truly lives, looks, and loves like Jesus.”

The 80th General Convention is scheduled for July 8-11.

Summer Church Chats

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 19:34:48 GMT

As a way to stay connected with parishioners near and far and to get to know one another a little better, we will be having “Summer Church Chats” on Zoom this summer. Check out the detailed article in this Brief and in the upcoming summer edition of the Red Door for the dates and topics.

Church Chats will be the second Monday of each month at 1:00 pm and the fourth Wednesday of each month at 7:00 pm. The Zoom link can be found in the Brief. The first Chat will be this Monday , June 13 at 1:00 pm. The topic is: what is your favorite recipe/meal and why? What was your grandparents or parents signature dish?

Hope to see you on Zoom!

Messy Church is happening this Sunday, June 12 ^th . If you know a person or family who is looking for a welcoming, creative, fun, interactive church experience be sure to invite them. You could offer to join them as a way of enticing them to try it.

And mark you calendar for the 4 ^th of July on Sanibel. St. Michael’s will have a float in the parade. We will be service ice cream at the church following the parade. We will also be part of the Sanibel-Captiva Road Rally - Sanibel’s longest-running 4th of July event- in the afternoon.

We have entered the bus so that we can fill it with happy parishioners who want to help solve puzzle clues while following a prescribed driving course around the Island. Fun for everyone, so hop on the bus, driven by our cruise director Chuck! Seating is limited to 14 people so please sign up with Sue Van Oss.

Finally, we are looking for 3-4 Flower Coordinators to oversee the delivery of the altar flowers to homebound after the Sunday service. The job is pretty simple. The Flower Coordinator divides the Altar arrangement into 3 small vases in the Flower Room. The Flower Coordinator makes sure that any flowers going to Shell Point get to the SP driver. Joyce Crawley, on the bus, has offered to deliver them. The Flower Coordinator also either delivers any remaining flowers, OR gets someone else to deliver, like a neighbor. Often someone from the reception agrees to take a vase to deliver. Please contact Joanne Syverson if you would like to serve as a flower coordinator. This is a wonderful way to be part of our pastoral care ministry.

Lots of things going on this summer at St. Michael’s!

Peace,

Bill+

Where's Jesus?

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 07:17:27 GMT

I hope to see you wearing RED at the services this weekend because we are celebrating Pentecost. Pentecost is the day the Holy Spirit came as wind and tongues of fire that rested on the disciples who were huddled together and wondering: where’s Jesus?

Jesus had been with them, but then he was crucified. Then He rose from the dead and appeared to them for 40 days before ascending back into heaven. The disciples must have been wondering what to do now. Had they been abandoned? Was God still with them?

Then God came as the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of love, the spirit that first moved over at waters at the beginning of creation, and pushed them out into the world to proclaim that Christ was still alive. Alive in love. Alive in God’s love for each and every person that God has made, alive in our love for each other as God’s children and alive in our love for the world God has made.

A while ago I received a beautiful needlepoint of one of my favorite scripture verses (Galatians 5:22) “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Filled with the breath and fire of the Holy Spirit this Pentecost, we go forth to bear fruit. We go forth to live lives of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control to set the world on fire with God’s love.

Where’s Jesus? You can find Him in our love for God and for each other.

Let us pray: God our creator, the resurrection of your Son offers life to all the peoples of the earth. By your Holy Spirit, kindle in us the fire of your love, empowering our lives for service and our tongues for praise, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

Peace,

Bill+

Island Night!

Fri, 27 May 2022 11:01:52 GMT

Next Wednesday, June 1 ^st is “Islands Night” at Hammond Stadium . The Mighty Mussels will take on the Tampa Tarpons beginning at 7:00 pm. Before that there will be a parade featuring businesses, organizations and churches including St. Michaels! Come out and enjoy the parade and the game. Gates open at 6:00 pm and the parade starts at 6:15 pm. Tickets are available in the gallery, and we will sit together at the stadium. Hope to see you there.

In this weekend’s Gospel reading, Jesus prays for his disciples “that they may be one” as Jesus is one with his Father. This unity is rooted in unconditional love. I liked this reflection from one of the brothers of the Society of St. John the Evangelist. I hope you like it too:

Adoration

Adoration is a prayer of loving presence. Adoration is love, like close friends who honestly share the joys and concerns of their hearts, who explore questions and seek perspective together, who long to be in each other’s presence. Jesus adored God whom he called Father, and Jesus adored his disciples whom he called friends. Gaze at God and see God already gazing at you. God adores you.

-Br. Luke Ditewig

Peace,

Bill+

LIFE

Fri, 13 May 2022 10:45:39 GMT

Last evening I attended a gathering of LIFE (Lee Interfaith for Empowerment) along with a great group from St. Michael’s. LIFE is a broad group of people from several churches in Lee County who come together to work for justice through systemic change. St. Michael’s has only officially been a part of LIFE for less than a year, and we have about 15 people actively involved already.

LIFE members work together for policy changes in a way that is not confrontational but is clear, persistent and direct. For Christians who embrace a baptismal covenant that asks “will you strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of every human being?” LIFE gives us a way to put that promise into action.

The gathering was a wonderful celebration of some of the accomplishments LIFE has recently achieved. To highlight three of them:

The sheriff’s office received an award for training all of their officers in crisis intervention with people experiencing a mental health concern. This was an initiative that LIFE effectively advocated for with the sheriff.
LIFE advocated for a program of civil citations rather than arrest for juvenile offenders who commit petty offenses. We learned that several hundred juveniles have been kept out of jail (and having an arrest record) as a result of this change in policy.
LIFE continues to work on the important issue of affordable housing and has successfully helped to establish an affordable housing trust fund to keep the affordable housing ball rolling.

I am grateful to Anne Kimball, other leaders from our parish, and all who are involved in LIFE. People of faith coming together to do good in our community are making a big difference. If you would like more information, please contact Anne at 239-454-2854 or abkrak2@ gmail.com

Peace,

Bill+

Abundance

Fri, 06 May 2022 12:17:25 GMT

I came across this piece recently, and I really like it:

“When our minds are distracted by anxiety, we forget God’s eternal presence. We forget, and so we fail to recognize Christ’s Light in a flower, a friend’s face, the play of shadows at dusk, the sound of rustling leaves, or even the subtle sense of our own being. Fortunately, all it takes is an instant of rest for our souls, a complete surrender to God, and a quieting of our minds. Then we remember this place of abundance, here and now, already surrounding us and within us.” -Br. Nicholas Bartoli Society of Saint John the Evangelist

I really like the thought of God’s abundance both surrounding us and being within us. Hopefully, you are able to find times of rest for your soul to appreciate the abundance of God’s love that both surrounds you and dwells within you.

We have several things coming up that I want to be sure you are aware of:

This Sunday, May 8 ^th , will be our second Messy Church . The theme this month is “Superheroes.” Messy Church is targeted toward children and families but all are welcome. It includes activities and crafts, a simple worship experience and a meal. Moms who attend will get a special gift because they are superheroes every day! It begins at 4:00 pm in the parish hall. Flyers and brochures are available so you can keep getting the word out.
Next Wednesday, May 11 at 6:30 pm there will be an Interfaith Gathering and Discussion on the topic of “Hope” at Cypress Lake United Methodist Church. Some thoughts and reflections on hope will be followed by table discussions with members of other churches/faith communities.
I am pleased that we will be celebrating our high school graduates : Mia Kjoller and Chet Sproles at the Sunday service and at the coffee hour following on May 15.

An abundance of good things are happening!

Peace,

Bill+

Important: Please Read

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 12:23:19 GMT

We are seeing an increase in COVID-19 infections in our community and throughout the US. Thankfully, we are not seeing a significant increase in hospitalizations and deaths, so it appears that most cases are mild with people recovering within a few days. Even though this appears to be the case, it is important for us to continue to be vigilant and to take this disease seriously. It can still be very serious, especially for those who are immune compromised or who have underlying health conditions. It is our Christian duty to do everything we can to protect the vulnerable.

Here are some of the latest recommendations:

First, and perhaps most importantly, if you are not feeling well STAY HOME. You may have COVID or the flu or some other kind of infection. Whatever it is, you don’t want to spread it around. Stay put.
Free COVID-19 test kits are available at https://www.covid.gov/tests It is a good idea to order them now so you have one on hand when you need it. We also have test kits available here at St. Michael’s. You can call the office, and it will be placed outside for pickup.
Effective anti-viral treatments are available if taken early. Consult your doctor as soon as possible if you test positive. More information about anti-virals can be found here: https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/treatments/treatmentlocator/
If you have been exposed to someone with COVID, you do not need to isolate, but you should wear a mask for 10 days. More information on what to do if you were exposed can be found here .
If you test positive and you have been here at St. Michael’s or at the Ark, please let Wendy Warner know via phone or email so we can inform those you might have been in contact with.
Obviously, it is ALWAYS perfectly acceptable to wear a mask if that makes you feel more comfortable.

Here are the CDC’s recommendations for what to do if you are exposed to someone with COVID-19 and what to do if you test positive: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html

Be Safe and Well,

Bill+

All Souls

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 09:37:12 GMT

I was reminded of how many good, kind and generous people there are in our community again this week when I went to All Souls Episcopal Church in North Fort Myers to visit their Wednesday Outreach program with a group from St. Michael’s.

Every Wednesday morning people stream into their parish hall to receive groceries, clothing, toiletries and other necessities (shoes, blankets, towels, sheets, raingear, etc.). They also help people obtain driver’s licenses, state ID’s and birth certificates. They provide bus passes for medical and other appointments. Because homeless people do not have an address, the church receives their mail and distributes it to them.

They offer lunch, either on-site or to go, and the services of their parish nurse and a social worker. Family Health Center provides free medical care. They have a program that supplies bikes so people can get to work. Someone from the VA is there to provide services to veterans, and children receive toys at Christmas time. The church is open for prayer.

I was deeply impressed, not only with what they are doing to serve people who are struggling and in need in our community, but with the wonderful spirit in the room. It was clear these volunteers cared deeply about the people they are serving, and it was clear how much the clients cared about the volunteers and each other. It felt like authentic Christian community.

They are deeply grateful for the grants St. Michael’s provides to help them keep this ministry going. We have also made donations of food and hygiene items. Several of the leaders went out of their way to thank us. It was yet another reminder of all the good that Noah’s Ark is doing in our community.

In addition to grant funding, Wednesday Outreach is also in need of volunteers, especially during the summer when some of the regular volunteers head up north. Volunteers are needed to help prepare the lunch and assist in the thrift shop. If you would like to volunteer to serve on a Wednesday morning this summer, contact Mary Chasseur via EMAIL or me.

Peace,

Bill+

Holy Week

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 10:31:40 GMT

As a parish family, we have suffered several losses over the past few weeks. A couple of them were sudden and unexpected. The others came after a period of steady decline. Either way, losing a family member or friend is difficult. You lose a part of yourself and need to adjust to a new reality of life without the physical presence of the one you loved.

Recently, I came across these words that Mirabai Starr wrote in the wake of some losses in her life:

“There is no map for the landscape of loss, no established itinerary, no cosmic checklist, where each item ticked off gets you closer to success. You cannot succeed in mourning your loved ones. You cannot fail. Nor is grief a malady, like the flu. You will not get over it. You will only come to integrate your loss. . . . The death of a beloved is an amputation. You find a new center of gravity, but the limb does not grow back. Death cannot be dealt with through quick answers, religious platitudes, or a stiff upper lip. Grief is not a process that can be rushed but must be allowed to happen over time and in its own time.”

One of the ways we “come to integrate (our) loss” is through our faith. Holy Week, when we remember Christ’s death and celebrate His victory over death through the resurrection invites us deeply into the mystery of life and death. The words we find in our Prayer Book and pray over and over sustain us in our grief and reassure us of God’s promise of everlasting life:

“I am resurrection and I am life,” says the Lord. “Those who believer in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” (John 11: 25-26)

“In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before.” (p. 493)

“Through Jesus Christ our Lord; who rose victorious from the dead, and comforts us with the blessed hope of everlasting life. For to your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended; and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens.” (p. 382)

Profound words that speak to the power of Christ’s resurrection and the glory of the life to come.

Happy Easter!

Bill+

Holy Week This Year

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 17:13:29 GMT

The services of Holy Week will have a special significance this year. After 2 years of virtual and modified services, we will celebrate Holy Week fully this year. This weekend, Palm Sunday services will include the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, blessing of palms and the reading of the passion according to Luke.

The Maundy Thursday service (5:00 pm) tells the story of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet and commanding them to “do to others as I have done to you,” to love and serve others in his name. We wash feet at this service in remembrance of what Jesus did. The altar is stripped at the end of the service, and an altar of repose is set up in the Angel Chapel. You are welcome to visit the chapel to reflect and pray anytime Thursday night or Friday morning.

The Good Friday service (noon) is simple, yet profound. It features the passion Gospel according to John and solemn collects and anthems.

The Easter Vigil service (7:00 pm Saturday, April 16 ^th ) begins with the lighting of a fire, singing of the Exsultet (the proclamation of Easter), and scripture readings that tell the story of God’s mighty acts through salvation history. We reaffirm our baptismal covenant, sing our alleluias and celebrate the Eucharist. Please note there is no 5:00 pm service on the 16 ^th .

Easter Sunday services will be at 7:30, 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. I get excited just thinking about singing “Jesus Christ is Risen Today” in full churches after the last 2 years.

Holy Week is our opportunity to walk with Jesus from his triumphal entry into Jerusalem to the last supper table and then to cross and, finally, the empty tomb. It’s about life, death and resurrection, the foundation of our faith. I hope to see you at the services of Holy Week!

Peace,

Bill+

Prayers for Ukraine

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 09:44:47 GMT

Brother Alois of the Taizé community recently shared this prayer for the people of Ukraine:

“Risen Christ, as we remain in silence before you, we let this ardent prayer rise up: may the firing of weapons in the land of Ukraine cease! Welcome into your love those who are dying from violence and war, console the families in mourning, support those who have had to take the road of exodus. Faced with incomprehensible suffering, we still believe that your words of love and peace will never pass. You gave your life on the cross and you opened a future for us, even beyond death. So we implore you: give us your peace. You are our hope.”

We continue to hope in God and to pray for, and support, the people of Ukraine. This Wednesday’s Prayer and Potluck (April 6 ^th at 6:00 pm) will feature A Service of Prayer for Peace in Ukraine . It will include music, readings, and a beautiful litany for peace. Bring a dish to share and your plates and utensils for the potluck to follow.

Also – Messy Church is almost here. Sunday, April 10 (4:00 – 6:00 pm) we will be launching the first Messy Church experience. This is a different type of church experience that includes a welcome, crafts and activities based on the theme, a brief service of stories and song and a meal. It’s for everyone: families and kids ages 0-100. Here’s how you can be involved:

Spread the word: flyers and brochures are available to share with anyone who might be interested.
Volunteer: we need lots of help with welcoming, assisting with crafts and serving the meal. Contact Sue to help.
Come! Messy Church is geared toward families with children, but everyone is welcome to come and participate.

Visit https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/messy-church for more information or contact Sue Van Oss.

Peace,

Bill+

Praying Together

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 10:51:18 GMT

Praying together. In the past two years of pandemic, we have experienced some creative ways of praying together. We had recorded worship services that could be accessed with the click of a button. We prayed together on Zoom. We improved the livestream worship experience so that those attending online can participate as fully as possible. We discovered online prayer and worship offerings at places like Canterbury Cathedral.

There is power in praying together. Even when I am praying morning prayer or compline privately at home, I know that there are others throughout the world praying the same prayers, reading the same psalms and other scripture readings, lifting up the same concerns (like praying for peace in Ukraine). When we celebrate the Eucharist, we are joining with Christians throughout the world. We hear the same scriptures. We all receive the gifts of bread and wine that have become the body and blood of Christ. We are knit together as one body; the Body of Christ.

There is power in praying together. We have a wonderful opportunity to pray together this week as we celebrate World Day of Prayer here at St. Michael’s. The theme of this year’s celebration is based on these words from the prophet Jeremiah: “I know the plans I have for you.” The service begins at 10:30 a.m. and will be followed by a social hour in the parish hall. We will be five local congregations joining people of faith throughout the world for a time of unity and prayer. I know it will be a powerful experience.

This weekend, we are welcoming Bishop Brian Prior for our parish retreat. Bishop Brian will be preaching at the services this weekend and also offering a Wednesday evening Lent Forum at 6:00 pm (on the 30 ^th ). Brian will be reflecting on signs of hope that he sees as he travels around the church engaging in various ministries, and he will also give a preview of the upcoming General Convention this summer in Baltimore. This forum is on Zoom only, and the link can be found here:

Peace,

+Bill

Parish Retreat & "Messy Church"

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 12:10:30 GMT

I want to highlight 2 things that are coming up at St. Michael’s. Next week we are looking forward to hosting Bishop Brian Prior for a parish retreat . Bishop Brian is a gifted conference and retreat leader who will be helping us explore the road maps of our faith journeys. To find out more about him visit: brianprior.com There you can find podcasts that give you a sense of his theology and style. Bishop Brian is the retired bishop of Minnesota, where I had the privilege of serving with him for 9 years. He is a gifted storyteller with a deep faith in God who “(believes) each of us is uniquely created and uniquely gifted, called to use who we are and how we have been gifted in service to others. When we bring our gifts to the world both we and the world around us are transformed.”

The retreat begins on Friday evening, March 25 ^th at 5:30 pm and includes dinner. We will resume on Saturday morning at 10:00 am and conclude the day by 2:00 pm. Saturday includes lunch. Bp. Brian will be preaching at the services Saturday and Sunday and there will be a wrap up session at 9:30 am on Sunday. It is important to know that while I encourage you to attend both days of the retreat, you can attend just Friday or Saturday if that is what you are able to do . Please sign up on the website or by contacting the parish office.

I am also thrilled that beginning next month we will be offering something called “Messy Church.” Messy Church is an intergenerational program, held on Sunday evenings, that provides an opportunity for people of all ages to worship together in new ways. It begins with a time of welcome followed by activities and crafts for all ages related to the theme, a brief worship service and a meal. The first one will be April 10 ^th from 4:00 to 6:00 pm with an Easter theme. They will be happening monthly.

Messy Church “is a form of church for children and adults that involves creativity, celebration and hospitality.” Everyone is welcome: young, old, singles, families, couples. It is for those who are new to the church and those who are long-time members. Find out more at: messychurchusa.org Many thanks to Sue Van Oss for launching this exciting initiative! If you would like to volunteer to help out at one of the monthly Messy Church events, please talk to Sue. We could use folks to help serve the simple meal, greet people at the door, and sit at an activity table.

Peace,

+Bill

Bishops!

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 09:06:16 GMT

You might have heard that we will be electing a bishop coadjutor for the diocese of Southwest Florida next month, and you might be wondering what a bishop “coadjutor” is. Perhaps you have other questions about how the call process for finding a new bishop works, or what a bishop does, or who is involved in this important event in the life of a diocese.

You might not know that Saint Michael’s has three lay delegates and 2 clergy delegates who will be voting to elect the next bishop. You might not be aware that the candidates have been identified and will be doing “walk-a-bouts” where you will have a chance to meet them later this month. Well, you have an opportunity to find out about these things and more.

If you are curious or have questions, I encourage you to come to this Sunday’s Coffee Hour Forum . Beginning at 9:30 a.m., I will be giving a presentation on bishops and the bishop search and call process. There will be plenty of time for your questions. The forum will also be livestreamed, and the link can be found here:

https://livestream.com/smaa/events/10231748

Later this month, we will be welcoming a bishop to St. Michael’s for a weekend parish retreat . Bishop Brian Prior, retired Bishop of Minnesota, will be with us March 25-27 for a retreat entitled: The Road to Emmaus: The Three Days of our Faith Journey. The weekend will include a lovely dinner on Friday evening and lunch on Saturday, so we need you to RSVP by contacting the parish office or registering on the home page of our website.

In between, we will be offering 2 Wednesday evening forums on Zoom where parishioners will be sharing a bit of their faith journey: where they have been, the bumps in the road and next steps on the walk of faith. The forums are on March 16 and 23 and begin at 6:00 pm (on Zoom). Details can be found in this Brief.

Peace, Bill+

Wednesday Evening Forums on Zoom

This Wednesday, March 16 ^th and again on March 23th, we will be offering 2 Lent forums on Zoom. Beginning at 6:00 pm this Wednesday Carolyn Clark, John Mason and David Vaules will be sharing a bit of their faith journey based on the theme for our parish retreat: The Road to Emmaus, the three days of our faith journey. They will talk about where they have been, bumps in the road, and the road ahead. The sessions will be ZOOM ONLY, click on the following link (Meeting ID: 833 9252 2678) https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83392522678 .

Stations of the Cross

Each Friday during Lent stations of the cross will be prayed beginning at noon in the church. Stations of the cross is a simple, yet meaningful way to prayerfully make the journey with Jesus from his trial to the tomb. Service booklets will be located near the first station. Please contact the church office if you would like to lead a service this Lent.

Upcoming

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 07:49:48 GMT

We have two exciting offerings coming up, one this Sunday and the other at the end of the month. This Sunday at 9:30 a.m. our Coffee Hour Forum will feature the Rev. Dr. James Bohler. He will be with us to talk about LIFE (Lee Interfaith for Empowerment) . LIFE is a group of diverse congregations and faith communities who come together to pursue justice and compassion for the residents of Lee County. St. Michael’s is a member of LIFE.

The current issues being addressed include affordable housing, mental health and police relations. LIFE has been successful in promoting and supporting an affordable housing trust fund in Lee County. This will help to address one of the most serious issues affecting low income individuals and families in our area: affordable housing.

Come and learn more about LIFE and how you can be involved this Sunday. The forum will be livestreamed. Questions about LIFE can be directed to Anne Kimball.

I am also very excited that we will be having a parish retreat March 25 ^th to the 27 ^th with Bishop Brian Prior. Bishop Brian was my bishop in Minnesota before retiring several years ago. He is a gifted speaker and retreat leader who will focus on “The Road to Emmaus: The Three Day of our Faith Journey.” We will explore the road maps of our faith journeys; where we have traveled thus far, the bumps in the road, and the next steps. The retreat will begin with an opening session and dinner on Friday evening, followed by sessions on Saturday and a wrap up on Sunday morning. You are welcome to attend whatever part(s) of the retreat work for your schedule.

There is no cost to attend, but you need to register so we can plan for meals and supplies. You can register on the home page of our website or by calling or emailing the parish office. Lent is a perfect opportunity to spend some time reflecting on our faith journey and discerning where God is leading us.

Good things are happening at St. Michael’s. Praise God!

Bill+

Next Week!

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 11:17:01 GMT

Next week begins the Season of Lent. On Ash Wednesday we will have services at 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Both services will include Eucharist and the imposition of ashes. Attending an Ash Wednesday service is a wonderful way to begin the Lenten season.

We will also be having a Lent Festival on Sunday the 27 ^th after the 10:30 service. This is an opportunity to learn a bit more about the Season of Lent, visit several different stations to get ideas for making Lent special and receive a Lent-in-a- Bag kit to take home. Adult and children's bags will be available for children, grandchildren and great-grands.

The Women’s Retreat is next Thursday and Friday.

Last, but certainly not least, we will be having a Shrove Tuesday/Mardi Gras potluck on Tuesday (the 1 ^st ) at 6:00 pm. Barbara Menard will be making her famous shrimp creole for all. You are welcome to bring a dish to pass and your own plate and utensils for the meal (to keep cleanup to a minimum). The potluck begins at 6:00 pm on Tuesday.

Lots of great things are happening next week and every week at St. Michael’s!

Peace,

Bill+

Thank You

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 14:03:25 GMT

Many thanks to everyone who helped to make my installation service last Saturday so special. It was great to see such a full church and to hear our choir sing “All Are Welcome.” Thank you to the service planners, those who presented the symbols, altar and flower guilds, and all who were involved with the wonderful reception following the service. I truly felt the power of the Holy Spirit and the warmth of our community.

As I knelt before the altar and prayed: “O Lord my God, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; yet you have called your servant to stand in your house, and to serve at your altar. To you and to your service I devote myself, body, soul, and spirit…” I felt the weight of this responsibility, but I also knew that you were behind me, supporting me and lifting me up. Together, we will continue to build the Beloved Community as we follow Jesus in the Way of Love.

This Sunday is our Annual Meeting. It will follow the 10:30 service and be held in the social hall. It will also be livestreamed. Hope to see you!

Peace,

Bill+

TEC

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 15:54:26 GMT

I love The Episcopal Church. It has been my adopted church home since 1996. It welcomed me with an invitation to communion that said: “This is the table not of the church, but of the Lord. It is made ready for those who love God and those who want to love God more. So come, you who have much faith and you who have little; you who have been here often and you who have not been here long; you who have tried to follow and you who have failed. Come, because it is the Lord who invites you. It is his will that those who want him, can meet him here.” That was just what I needed to hear at the time.

I love the structure of The Episcopal Church. Ours is not a congregational polity. We are part of a larger body that includes our diocese, the national church and the worldwide Anglican Communion. We have bishops who are “called to guard the faith, unity, and discipline of the Church.” (BCP pg. 517) We have a Presiding Bishop who boldly proclaims that “we are the Episcopal branch of the Jesus movement.”

We will welcome our bishop this weekend for my installation, for Sunday services and for a visitation. We will be electing a new bishop for our diocese in April. This kind of inspiration, oversight and pastoral care is important.

Our parish church is governed by diocesan and national canons (books of rules that have been approved at convention). Elected wardens and vestry members manage the finances and the property and work with the rector to assure the worship, formation, outreach and other ministries of the parish are functioning well.

I recently read that “the rector’s primary task is to articulate, preach, teach, interpret, uphold, exemplify, shape and develop the stated vision of the parish so that the vision becomes the focal point for the congregation.” Our vision is “transforming lives through Christ.” My job is proclaiming, living out and implementing that vision. No small task… It can only be done with God’s help.

As I am officially installed as your rector on Saturday, I want you to know that I am honored to serve as your rector, and I will do my best, with God’s help, to live out my call to love and serve you.

Peace,

Bill+ .

Grateful

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 12:11:24 GMT

I am truly looking forward to our Celebration of a New Ministry, when I am officially installed as rector of St. Michael’s on Saturday, February 12 at 2:00 pm. After 17 months of the ups and downs of COVID, Bishop Smith will be with us for the official institution and induction. Please note: there is no 5:00 pm Eucharist on February 12 ^th .

As I prayed through the service, this line from the second lesson (Ephesians 4: 15-16) jumped out at me:

“But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knitted together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.”

This passage inspired me to think of some people who have “spoken the truth in love” to me through these past 30+ years of ordained ministry. I have learned a lot about God, God’s people, and myself through the loving encouragements and admonitions of faithful people.

This passage also speaks of “growing up” and “building up.” As followers of Jesus who proclaim and practice the way of love, we are always seeking to grow and deepen our faith in God and our connection with one another. We learn that love is more than just warm, fuzzy feelings. We learn that Christian love is about wanting what’s best for another, wanting what’s best even for those who are difficult and with whom we disagree.

This more mature love knits us together into the Body of Christ. We belong to God and each other, and we can overcome struggles, challenges and difficulties with God’s help. “We are called, we are chosen, we are Christ for one another” the song says…

I am truly looking forward to the celebration next Saturday. It will be followed by a reception in the parish hall. Thank you to all who are working on the service and the reception. I am humbled by your goodness to Sue and me, and I am very grateful for the privilege to serve here at St. Michael’s.

Finally, I am happy to let you know that we will have coffee hours after the 8:00 and 10:30 services beginning next Sunday the 13 ^th . Social hours after the 5:00 pm Saturday services will resume on February 19 ^th (since there’s no 5:00 service on the 12 ^th ).

Peace,

Bill+

Neighborhood Gatherings

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 08:44:42 GMT

We have had some wonderful neighborhood gatherings in parishioners homes this month. These gatherings are an opportunity for fellowship and a chance to hear a bit about what’s going on at St. Michael’s and an overview of the budget.

We have 2 more in-person gatherings and 2 Zoom gatherings for those who prefer that format. Tuesday, February 1 ^st there is a gathering at Shell Point. Thursday, February 3 ^rd there is a gathering on Sanibel. The Zoom gatherings are Wednesday, February 2 ^nd at 5:00 pm and Tuesday, February 8 ^th at 1:00 pm. You can sign up to attend a gathering by contacting Susan Gonzalez in the parish office.

This weekend our Epistle reading from 1 Corinthians 13 includes these verses: “Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.”

These are wonderful verses to hold onto as we strive to practice the way of love.

Peace,

Bill+

Motivate

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 21:09:33 GMT

The “star word” I received on Epiphany Sunday is “motivate.” For those who might not be familiar with a star word, on Epiphany Sunday we handed out envelopes that contained a word written on a wooden star. Mine was “motivate.” We are encouraged to use the star word as a guide for the coming year, reflecting on it regularly, opening our heart to learn how the Spirit might be calling us to live into the word this coming year. We even received a booklet with suggestions to guide us. (If you would like a star word and booklet, contact Susan Gonzalez).

I like my star word. “Motivate” is related to “inspire,” and that it certainly what I am attempting to do much of the time. I have been thinking a lot about what motivates and inspires me. Last night I saw a story on the news about a man who lost his little dog in the rubble after the recent tornado. Neighbors and strangers came to his aid, searched the rubble, and found his missing dog (and I heard it was a member of this parish who found it!). The people who jump in to help after a disaster motivate me. We hear far too much about the bad things happening around us, we need to hear more about people loving their neighbor.

I hope I can motivate you to attend one of the Neighborhood Conversations we have scheduled this week and next week. (How’s that for a segue?) These are a chance to gather for fellowship, to hear a report of what’s going on at St. Michael’s and a bit about the 2022 budget. Dates and locations can be found in another article in this Friday Brief. Contact Susan Gonzalez to RSVP.

I also want to be sure you know about the Memory Café interfaith outreach project that was recently launched. Anne Kimball gave a wonderful announcement last Sunday, but very few people heard it due to the storm. Memory Café provides a supportive environment for individuals with memory impairment as well as their caregivers. More details can be found in another article in this Brief and on our website.

Peace,

Bill+

Martin Luther King Day

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 19:17:25 GMT

We invite you to remember and celebrate the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr this weekend and on Monday, the national holiday. You can do so in several different ways:

Watch one or more of the services/speakers/events being livestreamed at famous Episcopal churches :
The King Center in Atlanta is hosting the Martin Luther King Jr. Beloved Community service with Presiding Bishop Michael Curry as the keynote speaker, Monday 10am-1pm EST. Live on the King Center YouTube , Facebook and website .
All Saints Atlanta will have a Sunday morning of events including Black Preaching in the Episcopal Tradition, a special service with musicians form Ebenezer Baptist Church- Dr. King’s church and a discussion of his life and legacy. https://allsaintsatlanta.org/event/1950676-2021-01-17-martin-luther-king-jr-sunday/
Grace Cathedral in San Francisco is hosting a “Toward Justice” zoom event at 6pm Sunday EST with prayer and conversation to analyze and thoughtfully question assumptions about King and faith, community and society https://gracecathedral.org/calendar-events/king-and-faith/
Washington National Cathedral will have two events, a special MLK JR service on Sunday at 11:15am https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qc6gmVKevDg and a service with school children and a speech by Dr. King’s granddaughter, Yolanda Renee King on Tuesday at 9am https://cathedral.org/event/remaining-awake-a-service-in-observance-of-dr-martin-luther-king-jr-day/
Engage in an act of service on Monday as part of the National Day of Service . MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. We had several group service projects planned, but agencies have had to cancel due to the covid surge. We will have two opportunities for small groups of people to engage in. We are assembling birthday in a bag kits for children in need in our community. Bring items like boxes of cake mix, tubs of frosting, candles, decorative plates, napkins, décor and party favors for children to church this weekend and place in the red buckets. At 10am on Monday a few people are needed to assemble the bags in the parish hall, coordinated by Cindy Brown. Please let Cindy or Sue know if you will be coming. Also, Jerry Davenport is coordinating a few people to work with CHR at some of their properties doing tree trimming outside, and a couple people are needed to tear up carpet in a home. If you have the physical ability to help, please contact Jerry Davenport 319-360-7155. Again, spaces are limited for these projects.
You can also engage in your own personal acts of service this weekend to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King. Here are some ideas:

Prepare a meal, muffins or other treat for someone you know
Write inspirational notes and drop off to your neighbors or place in the mail
Bring someone coffee or tea in the morning
Pick flowers and make a beautiful bouquet for someone
Make a homemade blanket, scarf, or other item
Do a chore for someone else that they might have trouble doing
Introduce yourself to new neighbors and give them your contact information
Beautify your neighborhood by collecting litter on walks and recycling it
Come up with your own act of service

I am also pleased to inform you that we are moving ahead with our Neighborhood Conversation gatherings beginning next week . These are opportunities to gather to learn about our budget and our plans for the coming year. There is an article in this Friday Brief with details about dates, locations and how to RSVP to attend. Hope to see you at a Neighborhood Conversation gathering!

Be Safe and Well,

Bill+

Sunday Forums

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 23:53:02 GMT

I am delighted that Sunday Forums return beginning this Sunday. The forums begin at 9:30 a.m. in the parish hall. Here is the lineup for the next three weeks:

January 9 - Coalition of Immokalee Workers Speaker: Uriel Zayala-Perez

is a worker-based human rights organization internationally recognized for its achievements in fighting human trafficking and gender-based violence at work. It has pioneered the design and development of worker-led market-enforced approach to the protection of human rights in corporate supply chains. Begun in 1993, CIW has steadily grown to encompass The Fair Food Program, Anti-Slavery Campaign and The Campaign for Fair Food. Website: www.ciw-online.org

January 16 - Community Housing Resource (CHR ) Speaker: Melissa Rice

CHR is an organization with the mission to provide affordable housing for families and individuals who work and serve the community of Sanibel. People sustain our community. CHR works to ensure that Sanibel remains a vibrant community where caring, experienced people are committed to your health, safety and welfare. Website: www.sanibelchr.org

January 23 - Common Hope for Guatemala Speaker: Shari Blindt

Fighting poverty with diplomas. Poverty ends wherever education thrives. Common Hope works with families that want to lift themselves out of poverty and currently supports over 2,700 children from pre-school through college. Shari Blindt is the Executive Director of Common Hope. Website: www.commonhope.org

Even if you are familiar with these organizations, you are sure to learn something new. Plan to stay after the 8:00 service or come early for the 10:30 service to learn more about these great community organizations.

Peace,

Bill+

Happy New Year

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 15:08:09 GMT

It was wonderful celebrating Christmas services last week following a beautiful service of Lessons and Carols on Wednesday. If you were not able to attend or view them, I encourage you to check the recordings out on our website . The Lessons and Carols service was fabulous with an eleven-piece orchestra and more than 20 voices. Many thanks to our choir and especially our music director, Tim Smith, for all of his efforts.

The Christmas services were beautiful and uplifting. Proclaiming the Gospel story of Jesus’ birth and singing Silent Night in candlelight is always very moving for me. I look up to see the light shining on your faces. It’s a reminder that we are reflections of Christ’s light and love.

As we turn the page on a new year, we have a busy January in front of us. You will be receiving a January edition of the Red Door soon, and it will be filled with lots of exciting programs and offerings. Here are just a couple of highlights:

Stewardship Neighborhood Gatherings. We will be offering 6 in-person and 1 ZOOM neighborhood gathering. You will be receiving a flyer with more details and how to sign up soon.
Sunday Forums will begin on January 9th. This year the forum speakers will be representatives of community organizations that St. Michael’s supports like FISH, CHR, Pine Manor and Immokalee Fair Housing. There are many exciting things happening with these organizations, so I encourage you to attend.

Finally, just a reminder that we are once again requiring mask wearing for indoor gatherings. This new COVID variant is highly transmissible. Please be careful and wear a mask when you are out and about.

Peace,
Bill+

Updated Mask Wearing Policy

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 07:47:22 GMT

Dear Friends,

Beginning today, we are moving from highly recommending masks to requiring masks be worn over the mouth and nose in all indoors areas at St. Michael’s . In accordance with CDC guidelines, all persons, including those fully vaccinated, need to mask indoors to maximize protection and prevent possibly spreading COVID-19 in areas of substantial or high transmission.

Also, with the increase in Omnicron infections; please adhere to the following:

If you are not feeling well, please do not come to church.
If you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 and have been at church, please contact Wendy Warner, our parish nurse immediately so we can track and alert others that have been exposed.
If you are fully vaccinated and have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, the CDC’s new guidelines are that you "wear a mask around others for ten days, test on day five, if possible, and if you develop symptoms, get a test and stay home." ( cdc.gov ) If you are unvaccinated or not boosted, there are different guidelines.

Please contact me or Wendy Warner if you have any questions. I appreciate your understanding and willingness to take the steps necessary to keep yourself and others safe.

Peace,
Bill+

Merry Christmas

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 15:42:07 GMT

Barry Shepherd penned this piece. It can be found in his book entitled A Way with Words :

Shopping Days ‘til Christmas

Black Friday opened up

before Halloween this year,

and the customary counselors are predicting

drastic shortages, delays and empty shelves.

The supply chain appears to be untethered –

loaded ships lying off the coast at anchor,

idled drivers, vacant trucks holding in line –

impending crisis, once again, is all the news.

Yet my Christmas list stays calmly unimperiled.

One festive meal with folk whose company

I have come to cherish over years.

One dog-directed stroll along the shore,

or down a snow-edged forest trail.

One open fireside with warm slippers,

a chair that tilts me backward when desired,

and a book I know so well the plot flows,

slow and easy into slumber.

A generous mug, or glass, to sip on,

welcome voice and touch when I awake.

At the close, a holy space of choir and candles,

ancient words of grace and comfort,

merry greetings, mending peace.

I pray your Christmas stays “calmly unimperiled,” and that you can enjoy the simple pleasures like a festive meal, a stroll on the beach with your dog, slippers and a good book, the company of loved ones and “a holy space of choir and candles” here at St. Michael’s or somewhere else. Sue and I wish you God’s peace and blessings this Christmas and throughout the coming year.

Christmas Eve services are at 5:00 and 8:00 pm. The 5:00 service includes children dressing up for the pageant. They are invited to come to the parish hall at 4:30 to choose a costume and get ready for the procession.

Christmas Day service is at 10:00 am. All three Christmas services will be livestreamed.

There is no 5:00 pm service on the 25 ^th . Services on Sunday the 26 ^th are at 8:00 and 10:30 am. 10:30 is livestreamed, as usual.

Peace and Blessings,

Bill+

Christmas!

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 09:32:30 GMT

Christmas is right around the corner, and I am so glad we will be in church this year instead of in cars like last year! It also means that we can have a live Christmas pageant at the 5:00 pm Christmas eve service. We welcome children , grandchildren, great-grandchildren, neighbor children and any other children to come early to choose a costume and be part of the procession into church. This is a simple and fun way to be part of the Christmas story and learn more about it. We ask that the children come to the parish hall at 4:30 to choose their costume. They will return to the pew to sit with their family at the sign of peace.

We will also have a Christmas eve service at 8:00 pm and a Christmas day service at 10:00 a.m. All the Christmas services will include the singing of Silent Night in candlelight, a particularly moving part of the service.

Please note that the 5:00 Saturday service on December 25 ^th is cancelled, but we will have the 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. services on December 26 ^th . The 10:30 service will include the baptism of Josie Sterrett, granddaughter of Chuck and Sue!

We continue to highly recommend mask wearing for all services and indoor gatherings.

Also, don’t forget that we have a service of Lessons and Carols next Wednesday the 22 ^nd at 6:00 pm. This is a beautiful service of scripture lessons and music that will inspire and uplift you and get you ready to celebrate Christmas.

All three Christmas services and Lessons and Carols will be live streamed.

Peace,

Bill+

Masks

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 06:58:13 GMT

One of the things that this pandemic has taught us is that we need to be flexible. Using the CDC’s Covid Tracker tool, we have been following COVID-19 transmission rates in our area. For the past few months, Lee County has been in the “low” transmission range based on the number of cases per 100,000 residents and positivity rate. Unfortunately, the past week has seen a rise in both number of cases and positivity rate that has pushed us into the “substantial” community transmission category.

Therefore, we are now highly recommending that you wear a mask for all indoor gatherings here at St. Michael’s. Our choir, ushers and everyone serving at the altar will be wearing a mask for weekend services. We will continue to have social and coffee hours, but we highly recommend you wear a mask when you are not eating or drinking.

I know this news will be received with mixed reactions. I encourage you to look at mask wearing as something we can do to keep ourselves and others safe. It allows us to continue to gather for worship and other offerings with a layer of protection against this serious disease. Being able to remain together for in-person gatherings is our highest priority and this simple act can help us do that. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we make our way through these challenging times.

I’ll leave you with this Advent thought on being “chosen” by Br. James Koester of the Society of St. John the Evangelist:

Mary was chosen for the particular purpose of becoming the mother of God’s son. So too has God chosen us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before God in love. Jesus, in the Gospel of John, reminds us: "You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last."

Peace,

Bill+

December

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 10:03:10 GMT

The December edition of the Red Door newsletter is out! It should have arrived in your inbox if you receive it via email. It will be in your mailbox shortly if you receive it from USPS. Please contact the office if you didn’t receive it. It is filled with many great offerings, including:

Our parish office dedication and reception on December 9 ^th at 5:00 pm
Our “Care of Creation” series on December 8 ^th and 15 ^th
A Service of Lessons and Carols on December 22 ^nd
And much, much more…

Be sure to read this edition of the Red Door so you will know what’s happening this month of December.

Last evening, we enjoyed a wonderful first Wednesday “Prayer and Potluck” gathering. We had a lovely Advent evening prayer service followed by a spirited potluck dinner. I am hoping that we can continue to offer Prayer and Potluck the first Wednesday of each month. I am looking for people who are willing to lead the prayer service at 6:00 pm. We have a number of prayer services to choose from here in the office. We also need to have people sign up to host the potluck supper. This involves set up and clean up. The sign up sheet is on the bulletin board outside the kitchen. Please let me know if you are interested in helping to lead the prayer service or host the potluck supper.

This Season of Advent is a time of waiting. I will leave you with a thought on Advent Waiting from Henri Nouwen (Weavings):

“A waiting person is a patient person. The word patience means the willingness to sat where we are and live the situation out to the fullest in the belief that something hidden there will manifest itself to us. Impatient people are always expecting the real thing to happen somewhere else and therefore want to go elsewhere. The moment is empty. But patient people dare to stay where they are. Patient living means to live actively in the present and wait there. Waiting, then, is not passive. It involves nurturing the moment, as a mother nurtures the child that is growing in her. Zechariah, Elizabeth, and Mary were present to the moment. That is why they could hear the angel. They were alert, attentive to the voice that spoke to them and said, “Do not be afraid. Something is happening to you. Pay attention…”

Happy Advent,

Bill+

A Litany of Thanksgiving

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 07:27:51 GMT

Thanksgiving Day is next week, and our Prayer Book has a wonderful thanksgiving litany prayer (p. 837) that I commend for your use on Thanksgiving or anytime:

Let us give thanks to God our Father for all his gifts so freely bestowed upon us.

For the beauty and wonder of your creation, in earth and sky and sea, we thank you, Lord .

For all that is gracious in the lives of men and women, revealing the image of Christ, we thank you, Lord .

For our daily food and drink, our homes and families, and our friends, we thank you, Lord .

For minds to think, and hearts to love, and hands to serve, we thank you, Lord .

For health and strength to work, and leisure to rest and play, we thank you, Lord .

For the brave and courageous, who are patient in suffering and faithful in adversity, we thank you, Lord .

For all valiant seekers after truth, liberty, and justice, we thank you, Lord .

For the communion of saints, in all times and places, we thank you, Lord .

Above all, we give you thanks for the great mercies and promises given to us in Christ Jesus our Lord; to him be praise and glory, with you, O Father, and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen

We will have a service of Eucharist at 10:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day . This service will include the baptism of Pedro David Harries Guardado, Grandson of Ellie and John Harries.

Be sure to pick up your Advent in a Bag and Advent Wreath Making Kit which are available after the services this weekend in the parish hall.

I will be offering another porch visit for anyone who would like to meet for informal conversation and “getting to know you” this Tuesday, November 23 ^rd at 4:00 pm. Contact Susan in the parish office to reserve your spot.

Finally, save the date for our New Office Dedication Thursday, December 9 ^th at 5:00 pm. The dedication and ribbon cutting will be followed by a reception in the parish hall.

Peace,

Bill+

Office Dedication

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 11:06:54 GMT

I am happy to let you know that the office project is nearly competed. The parking lot is now open (you can enter off Periwinkle) and apart from a few small things, the project is complete. The new parking lot and landscaping is beautiful. Many thanks to everyone who has worked so hard on this project and dealt with a myriad of details.

We will be having a dedication ceremony for the new office on Thursday, December 9 ^th at 5:00 pm. It will include a Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony. There will be a reception sponsored by the ECW in the parish hall following the dedication. Mark your calendar now. Everyone is welcome to help bless our new office, recognize the generous donor and thank everyone who worked to make this building a reality.

There will be tours of the office the following weekend, December 11-12 after all three of the services.

Just a reminder that mask wearing is now optional.

I’ll leave you with one of my favorite scripture verses, Galatians 5: 22-23 “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” This is a nice verse to have memorized so you can pray it silently when faced with a challenging situation (or person).

Peace,

Bill+

The Faithful Departed

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 04:51:02 GMT

The day that follows the Feast of All Saints on our church calendar, November 2 ^nd , is called the Commemoration of All Faithful Departed or All Souls Day. The book that describes the liturgical commemorations in The Episcopal Church, A Great Cloud of Witnesses, tells us this of All Souls Day:

”Beginning in the tenth century, it became customary to set aside another day—as a sort of extension of All Saints –on which the Church remembered that vast body of the faithful who, though no less members of the company of the redeemed, are unknown in the wider fellowship of the Church. It was also a day for particular remembrance of family members and friends.”

We had a wonderful Service of Remembrance last Wednesday evening as part of our monthly first Wednesday Prayer and Potluck. We listened to scripture, sang songs and a beautiful litany of the saints, and lit candles in memory of loved ones who have died. It was a reminder that as their life goes on with God in eternal glory, their light continues to burn brightly in the love they shared during their earthly pilgrimage, and that love never dies.

If you did not have a chance to attend the service in person or on live-stream, a recording is available on our website. Also on the website you can find In Memorium a pictorial tribute to the parishioners who have died since last All Saints Day set to beautiful music.

Finally, we give thanks that the positivity rate of the coronavirus has come down substantially and been below 5% for several consecutive days in our area. Therefore, we will be lifting the requirement to wear masks for indoor gatherings, effective today . Masks are still recommended, especially for those with weakened immune system, underlying medical conditions, those unvaccinated or if you feel more comfortable doing so. Please remember to stay home if you are not feeling well. As we have discovered over the past 19 months, conditions could change, and we will continue to respond as needed to ensure the safety of all at St. Michael’s.

And the entrance off Periwinkle is now open ! Some paved sections of the parking lot may still be blocked off, but you can enter off Periwinkle to make your way to the parking lot.

Peace,

Bill+

Reminders

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 19:43:45 GMT

Be sure to remember that we are moving to two Sunday services beginning this Sunday, October 31. They will be at 8:00 and 10:30 am. We also have the 5:00 pm Saturday service. Social hour follows the 5:00 Saturday service and coffee hour after the 10:30 on Sunday. If you would like to sign up to host social or coffee hour, the sign up sheet is on the bulletin board outside the kitchen.

This Wednesday’s Prayer and Potluck prayer service will be a service of remembrance for those who have died in the past year. You will be invited to light a candle in memory of your loved one. The service begins at 6:00 pm and is followed by a potluck. Brats will be provided. Please bring a side dish if you are able and remember to bring your own plates and utensils.

On Saturday, November 6 ^th at 1:00 pm in the parish hall we will be having a simple shell projec t called “Co-creating Something Beautiful Out of Brokenness.” This is more than just a craft project. It is a chance to “come-connect-laugh-heal.” Details can be found on the website or in the most recent edition of the Red Door.

Finally, I highly encourage you to get your COVID vaccine booster. Shots are widely available for all three vaccines. Contact Wendy Warner, our parish nurse, if you have any questions. Our Angels on the Go are available for rides if you need one.

Peace & Blessings,

Bill+

Reminders

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 05:25:54 GMT

I am pleased to announce that my Celebration of a New Ministry (Installation as Rector) will be Saturday, February 12 ^th at 2:00 pm. The service will be followed by a reception. Bishop Smith will be with us that weekend and be presider at the 10:30 service on Sunday. There will not be a 5:00 service on the 12 ^th .

It is so good to be able to begin having social hour after the Saturday service and coffee hour on Sunday. We be having them outdoors in the parking lot this weekend and hope to move them inside to the parish hall beginning next weekend. There is a signup sheet on the bulletin board outside the kitchen if you would like to host a social or coffee hour. Please sign up to do that.

I also want to remind you that beginning next Sunday, October 31st, we will have 2 services. Services will be at 8:00 & 10:30 am moving forward. The 10:30 am service will be livestreamed and be followed by coffee hour.

Progress on planting and the parking lot continues to move along nicely. At this point we anticipate the lot will be blocked off until the end of the month. Please continue to enter off Dunlop. The handicapped spots outside the front doors of church are available for parking on Saturday and Sunday.

Finally, Sue Van Oss is recording people sharing “God glimpses.” This is a wonderful project. It is good for us to reflect on times when we have seen God or felt God’s presence in a particularly meaningful way. It might be in nature, or in an encounter with a friend or stranger, or something special that happened to you or that you feel particularly grateful for. Keep your eyes open for glimpses of God and contact Sue if you’d like to share one.

Peace,

Bill+

Social and Coffee Hour

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 19:56:02 GMT

It is nice to be hearing some good news regarding COVID these days. The positivity rate is around 5% for the first time in several months. The number of COVID patients in the hospital is falling. It appears there is much less community spread than there was just a few weeks ago. After consulting with the Medical Advisory Committee, I have decided that we can reinstate social and coffee hours.

The weekends of October 23/24 and 30/31 social hour following the Saturday service and coffee hour following the Sunday service will be held outside . Beginning the weekend of November 6/7 we will be back inside.

The sign up sheet to host a social or coffee hour is posted on the bulletin board outside the kitchen. You can also sign up by emailing or calling the parish office. Please sign up to host one!

We are also planning to have the annul Beer and Brats on Wednesday, November 3 ^rd . The prayer service will begin at 6:00 pm with the meal to follow in the parish hall (COVID permitting). Otherwise, the meal will be outside.

Also, remember that we are offering a series entitled “Re-Discovering The Episcopal Church” on Zoom Wednesday evenings at 6:00. More details can be found in this Friday Brief and in the Red Door.

Finally, I’ll leave you with this thought from Br. Keith Nelson of the Society of St. John the Evangelist entitled “reply.” “God calls us each by name: in impossible joy and unthinkable suffering; in the need of another, communicated clearly or barely recognized; in the revelation of tasks that seem beyond our capacity; in the love of those who share our table. The simplest task, and the work of a lifetime, is the reply – in free and loving obedience: Here I am.”

Know that I am here for you.

Peace & Blessings,

Bill+

Lots of Things

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 07:41:57 GMT

The October/November edition of the Red Door is out! You should have received it in your email inbox or through the mail. Please contact Susan Gonzalez in the office if you did not receive it.

Please take some time to read this latest Red Door. When you do, you will see that we have a lot of exciting things going on, including:

-A series entitled “Re-Discovering the Episcopal Church.” This Episcopal 101 series is intended for those who are new(er) to The Episcopal Church and anyone who wants to learn more about the basics of the faith. It will be held Wednesday evenings at 6:00 pm on Zoom. You can find the link in this Friday Brief.

-Rev. Alan has taken over leadership of our Healing Ministry and will begin meetings that include a book discussion this month.

-One of our newer parishioners will lead A Simple Shell Project on Saturday, November 6 ^th at 1:00 pm. This will be a great opportunity to “Come – Connect- Laugh-Heal.” Who doesn’t need that?

This is just a small sampling of some of the things coming up in October and November. Be sure to thoroughly read the Red Door for details on these offerings and many, many more.

Peace,

Bill+

Things To Be Aware Of

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 10:23:45 GMT

I want to be sure that you know that the final phase of our office project, redoing the parking lot, is underway. You cannot access the main parking lot from Periwinkle so you need to enter the main parking lot from Wooster Lane (off Palm Ridge) . This road is called Dunlop if coming off the causeway. There are still a few handicapped parking spots accessible by the front entrance when you come for services. The bus will also still be able to drop off and pick up passengers at the front door. You are welcome to drop off at the main entrance if that is more convenient for you.

Saturday’s Blessing of the Animals , which includes a short outdoor service at 10am and the drive up/walk up blessings from 10:20am-noon, will be held in the back lot. Parking attendants will be available to assist you. Please enter from Wooster/Dunlop in the back.

My Celebration of a New Ministry which was originally scheduled for October has been postponed due to the bishop’s schedule. As soon as the new date is confirmed, we will let you know.

Also, please be sure to check your inbox or mailbox for the October/November edition of the Red Door newsletter. There are many great things happening these next two months, and you don’t want to miss out.

Finally, I’ll leave you with this thought on Evangelism by Br. Jim Woodrum of The Society of St. John the Evangelist: “Why does the word "evangelism" evoke such a negative emotion in many of us? I think we have misunderstood the meaning of the word. This word actually comes from the Greek word "euangelion," which means “messenger of good news.” It is where we get the word "angel." The angel Gabriel was an evangelist, a bringer of good news.”

May we be angels of Good News as well!

Peace and Blessings,

Bill+

Michaelmas

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 23:23:30 GMT

Feast Day of Saint Michael and All Angels: On Wednesday of this week, we celebrate the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels, often referred to as Michaelmas in some parts of the Anglican Communion. In doing some research on the feast, I learned that Michaelmas daisies “are stalwart plants that bring color to the darkening, dried out days of late summer and early fall with cheerful purple flowers.” Interesting…

One of the liturgy resources I use says this about Michael and All Angels: “On this festival day the church ponders the richness and variety of God’s created order and limits of human knowledge of it. The scriptures speak of angels (the word means “messengers”) who worship God in heaven, and in both testaments angels speak for God on earth. They are remembered most vividly as they appear to the shepherds and announce the birth of the Savior. Michael is an angel whose name appears in Daniel as the heavenly being who leads the faithful dead to God’s throne on the day of resurrection. In Revelation, Michael fights in a cosmic battle against Satan.” Sundays and Seasons

Someone asked me recently if I believed in angels, and I replied “absolutely” without hesitating. The person seemed a bit surprised by the immediacy of my response, but I went on to say that I believe angels have served as God’s messengers throughout time, and that they do so today. Think of what the people who received the assistance of our Vaccine Angels experienced. Isolated and frustrated with not being able to make a vaccine appointment, a stranger was willing to get up before dawn to get them an appointment. We have Angels on the Go who help with household projects and transportation. Doctors and nurses working tirelessly to care for the sick are angels… hospice workers and volunteers…

I could go on and on. The point is angels are all around us delivering messages of God’s goodness, care and love through their good deeds, selflessness and concern for others.

Happy Michaelmas!
Bill+

A Few Things

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 23:37:12 GMT

I received this piece on “humility” written by Br. James Koester of the Society of St. John the Evangelist. I thought it was particularly inspiring:

Humility “One of the easiest things in the world is to be clear-sighted when it comes to others, and to know exactly what another needs to do to address their shortcomings. It is not so easy to address, or even admit, our own shortcomings. Real humility is about knowing ourselves as God knows us: imperfect creatures, whom God loves. Knowing ourselves loved by God means first recognizing that we are loveable. To do that, we need to be clear sighted, not about the other person, but about ourselves.”

This reflection reminds us of the importance of “knowing ourselves loved by God” and “recognizing that we are loveable” as the first steps towards humility.

This weekend we are welcoming our new Music Director, Tim Smith! Please join me in welcoming Tim to St. Michael’s and helping him to feel at home. We are so blessed to have him with us and part of our great staff.

Some people have been asking about the delay in the removal of the old office building. The delay is due to the water that has accumulated at the work site. This makes completing the removal more challenging. We are working on a solution and hope to have the removal complete soon. Thank you for your patience.

I am happy to report that the new sound equipment was installed this week. The old equipment was failing rapidly, and the new equipment will improve the sound both in the church and on the livestream. Many thanks to Sue Van Oss for coordinating and overseeing this effort.

Be safe and well.

Peace,
Bill +

Wesite Redesign

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 21:07:18 GMT

I am delighted to report that our redesigned website is now live! I encourage you to check it out. It is the same address as before: www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org but has a new look and new content for our current parishioners and to welcome those who are looking for a church home online. It has been said that church websites are the phone book of the 21 ^st century. Many people who are looking for a church home check out a church’s website first to give them a sense of what the church is like before they ever walk in the doors or watch an online service. Our website is also the place for our current parishioners to go to when looking for information, links to Zoom events, inspiring videos to watch and maybe even read or hear a sermon or two….

The home page has the Sunday worship buttons right at the top, (or on the left side if you are using a phone or tablet) then just scroll down to see my weekly written and video reflections, special events, announcements, recurring meeting zoom links and the calendar. Under each main page are some subpages with additional information, for example under “Home” you can also find pages for the Friday Briefs and Red Door newsletters, Photos and Videos, Special Events and Our History.

The other main pages are:

“Welcome” which has information for those discovering who we are both here at St. Michaels and the Episcopal Church in general and a form for people to fill out to connect with us
“Worship” which has subpages for sermons, “what is worship like”, sacraments and prayer practices
“Learn” with subpages for Adults, Children & Youth, Parents & Grandparents (this is new) and Seasons of the Church year
“Serve” which is all about our various ministries. It is divided into six categories: Worship & Prayer, Parish Life, Pastoral Care, Outreach, Christian Formation and Administration
“Give” which has our stewardship and pledge information and link to give electronically
“Resources” which has information on Covid-19, Sanibel, additional St. Michael’s resources and Tropical Preparedness materials

Many thanks go to Pat Norton and Sue Van Oss for their work redesigning the website over these past several weeks and to Pat for her ongoing dedication and efforts as our volunteer webmaster. Thank you both!

Also – The next “Porch Visit” with the Rector will be Thursday, September 16 ^th at 8:30 a.m. This is an informal “get to know you” gathering with me and up to 6 parishioners. Contact Susan Gonzalez in the office to reserve a spot.

Peace, Bill+

Sunday School/Christian Formation

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 17:24:04 GMT

I know that we would all like to see children going up the aisle of our church leading the Sunday procession. We would like for them to be making their way to our beautifully renovated Sunday School room, where they would pray, sing, hear Bible stories and learn about God through teaching, praying, interacting and fun activities. But these are not normal times. We do not want to be taking risks with our children and adult volunteers, so we are delaying the start of in-person Sunday School.

What we will offer until we are able to gather again is online Sunday School. Each week we will record and send a session that will include a song, Bible story, lesson, craft or activity and prayer. We want to make this a fun and engaging Christian Formation opportunity. You can find the link for this week’s session here .

To receive the link in your inbox each week, you can sign up by calling (239) 472-2173 or emailin g Wendy. You can also request a seasonal fun box with the crafts and activities for you and your children.

GRANDPARENTS: feel free to send the link to your grandchildren and then join them via Zoom or Facetime for the sessions! This would be a great way to connect and grow in faith together.

This pandemic has been a challenge in so many ways. We want to do our best to provide resources and opportunities for young and old alike to know that we are loved and cherished by God and to grow in our faith.

Peace,

Bill+

The office move is complete

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:53:24 GMT

Here are a few important things that I want you to be aware of:

Please remember that we are requiring masks for all indoor gatherings due to the rise in COVID-19 infections. It is a good idea to wear a mask anytime you are indoors with others (like at the grocery store) whether they are vaccinated or not.
We have made the move into our new office! The unpacking continues. Many thanks to the staff and volunteers who helped with the move.
I will be offering “porch visits” with groups of parishioners once we are settled in. These visits will give me an opportunity to get to know you better. Stay tuned for details on how to register.
You have an opportunity to provide input to the Bishop Search Committee at a gathering tomorrow, Saturday, August 7 at 10:00 a.m. at St Hillary’s. You can also participate by Zoom. Check out https://www.episcopalswfl.org/ for details.

Be safe and well,
Bill+