The Decline of Truth and the Rise of ... Whatever

I love the benefits of the Digital Revolution. No, really. I do. How did I exist before I could binge TV series, design my own radio station, track my steps, gauge my sleep, and ask AI vital questions like “What is Hantavirus, and can we get it in Montgomery?” Really, I don’t know how I survived in the 20^th century. Last week in Atlanta I even thought about taking a driverless cab – a Waymo – before chickening out.

I felt the need to write that rosy first paragraph just to prove I’m not a caveman. Because what is about to follow is the outpouring of a troubled mind that fears things may have gone too far, and the future might be a touch apocalyptic.

A couple of weeks ago, we had a staff retreat at Lake Martin which was a great time of deepening friendships and of learning more about each other. One thing we did was study our various personality types, which was fun and also helpful. So now the whole staff team has received confirmation of what they already knew: that there is a personality type for people who are terrible at making decisions, and I'm it. And I really am awful at making decisions. You should see me when I go shopping. Take bread. Do you know how many kinds of bread there are in Publix? I do, because I counted them. 117. 

This month, we will be collecting supplies for Blessing Bags for our friends in need. Needs include: non-perishable foods like granola bars, trail mix, & tuna/cracker packs, toothbrushes & travel toothpaste, ChapStick, and small bottled waters. Please bring supplies to the education building and place on the round table provided.

It's easier than ever to help! Click HERE for the Blessing Bag Amazon Wishlist, and the food will be sent directly to St. John's.

Adults covered dish supper Tuesday, May 12, 6-8 p.m. Please bring your favorite covered dish and join us at the home of Cindy and Bobby Seibels. Soft drinks will be provided by the church, but you are welcome to bring additional beverages. 

St. John’s is looking forward to a relaxed and joyful evening of fellowship at our S’more Fellowship in 2026! All parishioners are invited to join us on Saturday, May 16, starting at 4:30 p.m. in the church parking lot for a laid-back gathering filled with food, fun, and community.

Enjoy a classic s’mores station around the fire pit, a simple supper of hotdogs and chips, and Camp McDowell-style songs as we sing together. There will also be cornhole and free play for all ages, making this a perfect event for everyone in the parish family. Be sure to bring a lawn chair, come hungry, and settle in for a warm evening of connection and fellowship. We hope to see you there!

This summer at St. John’s, we invite you to gather for a joyful, all-ages worship service beginning May 10 at 9:30 a.m. Designed especially for the rhythm of summer, this shorter, lively service offers a welcoming space for children, youth, and adults alike. Together we’ll share in music, prayer, Holy Communion, and an interactive message that engages hearts and minds of every age. Whether you’re a longtime member or visiting for the season, come experience a warm, meaningful way to worship as a community.

Join our new Ladies Bible Study at St. John’s. We will meet Tuesdays from 12–1 in the Parish Hall, exploring the Gospel of Mark together in fellowship, conversation, and faith. All are welcome. 

Contact Libby Beck at libfitz1@gmail.com for more information.

St John's is proud to host an Organ Concert May 31 at 4 p.m. by Los Angeles organist, Aaron Shows.  Click here for the program, links to his YouTube channel, and more about the program and this exciting artist.   

Please join us at 11:45 a.m. on Memorial Day (May 25, 2026), at the bell tower for St. John's annual "For Whom the Bell Tolls" ("FWTBT") event. It is a brief service of healing and remembrance. We will gather at the bell tower, hold a brief service and ring the bell for each fallen service member whose name has been submitted. 

If you have already provided names, you do not need to resubmit them. If you have a new name, please provide the full name, highest rank achieved and the associated conflict (e.g. Lt. Carter B. Haglar, Korean War). Names etc should  be submitted to Emily@stjohnsmontgomery.org no later than May 18, 2026.  The service member need not have died in combat or even while on active service. All who served and died are eligible to be on this list. 

All participants will receive a lapel pin. We will have a soloist to sing at the event. Master Sergeant Donna Johnson, a soloist based in Birmingham, Alabama, who frequently performs at veteran events, will be performing at our FWTBT event.  A lunch of barbecue and catfish sandwiches will be offered in the parish hall afterwards. 

Please email emily@stjohnsmontgomery.org by Monday, May 18 if you plan to attend.

VBS Is on the Horizon...

Step back in time this summer at St. John’s for an unforgettable Vacation Bible School experience! From June 1–4, children are invited to journey to ancient Rome for “ROME: Paul and the Underground Church,” a vibrant marketplace-style VBS. Each day, participants will explore bustling shops, meet early Christians, and discover what life was like for Paul and the underground church as they shared the Good News in a challenging time.

Through hands-on activities, storytelling, music, and crafts, children will experience Scripture in a whole new way—immersing themselves in the sights, sounds, and spirit of the early Church. 

Click here to register your child for VBS

Click here to register as a volunteer for VBS

Help us grow together in faith!

We’re exploring new opportunities for formation classes and book studies at St. John’s. Your input will help shape offerings that meet the needs of our parish and community.

Please click on the link below and fill out the Adult Formation Survey. 

Adult Formation Survey 2026

Jr. High Summer Outreach | Grades 7–9

 Jr. High students (rising grades 7–9) are invited to join us for a meaningful and fun summer outreach experience May 31 – June 2. Participants will gather at Camp McDowell for a few days of service, connection, and encouragement while learning about two important ministries in our diocese: Special Session and Sawyerville.

During the trip, students will prepare snacks and activities and host a Happy Hour for campers at Special Session. They will also travel to Greensboro to visit the Sawyerville camps, spend time with campers and staff, and help support the Sawyerville team by providing dinner for their staff.

Participants will arrive at Camp McDowell on Sunday, May 31 at 3 PM and will be picked up in Birmingham on Tuesday, June 2 at 5 PM (exact location TBD).

 The cost for the trip is $200, and financial assistance is available. This is a wonderful opportunity for Jr. High students to learn about outreach ministries in our diocese, build friendships, and serve others in meaningful ways. Space is limited, so sign up today!

Click here to register.

Honduras Mission Trip Opportunities – Summer 2026

Have you been thinking about joining St. Johns' mission trips to Honduras? Whether you’ve traveled before or are simply curious, you’re invited to take part in this meaningful ministry. Please feel free to share this opportunity with others who may be interested.

There are three participation options this summer:

• July 15–18 ($550): Help prepare medications alongside local church partners—an essential role that makes the clinics possible.

• July 18–25 ($1000): Serve in six medical clinics providing care to the community.

• July 14–25 ($1200): Participate in both preparation and clinic work for the full experience.

No medical background is required, and you do not need to speak Spanish—there is a place for everyone to serve.

The cost includes lodging, meals, and transportation within Honduras (airfare not included). Participants will receive travel guidelines for booking flights.

Passport reminder: You must have a valid passport that does not expire before January 2027.

If you’re interested or would like more information, please reach out to Kat Dailey by email or text (334-462-8628). A registration form will be shared soon—stay tuned!

Arts and Crafts is thinking about doing a project in which we will need framed mirrors, any size, any shape.
If anyone has a framed mirror that they would like to donate to the church for Arts and Crafts you can either leave it at the front desk or in the craft room.  If you have questions contact Murray Bennett at 334-430-8660.

Job description:

Overview

We are seeking a passionate and dynamic Director of Children’s Christian Formation to lead and nurture the spiritual growth of our youngest members. This vital role involves designing engaging faith-based programs, fostering a welcoming environment for children and families, and inspiring a team of dedicated volunteers. The ideal candidate will be energetic, compassionate, and committed to creating meaningful experiences that cultivate children’s understanding of Christian teachings and values. As a leader in our community, you will play a key role in shaping the spiritual foundation for generations to come.

St. John’s is blessed with many opportunities to serve, and we invite you to share your time
and talents by joining one of our church guilds.
Guilds are at the heart of our parish life. They support our worship, care for our community, and
help us live out Christ’s call to love and serve.
Some of the Guilds and Committees in need of volunteers include:
● Altar Guild - contact Kitty Coleman or Chuck Moore
● Flower Guild - contact Jean Smyth
● Reception - contact Libby Beck
● Pastoral Care - contact Virginia Banister
No experience is required — training and guidance are provided. Whether you can serve
occasionally or regularly, there is a place for you.
Feel free to contact the committee chair with any questions or you may contact Christine Kline
by email at firefamily1991@gmail.com
Come serve. Come belong. Come grow in faith.

May 10

7:30 a.m.
Lector: Valinda Johnson
Usher/Greeter: Jim Marshall
Altar Guild: Chuck Moore

10:30 a.m.
Acolytes: Parker Mantooth, Davis Schremser, Sam Snyder, Harlan White
Altar Guild: Ashley Hamlett

Lector and Intercessor: Rich Anderson, Mary-Nelms Parsons
Eucharistic Ministers: Callie Deitz, William Haynes, Dudley Perry
Ushers/Greeters: Rich Anderson, Jon Dailey, Mary-Nelms Parsons, Ashley Roseboro
Flower Guild:  Caroline Lawson, Laura McLemore

Flower Delivery Team: Anne Hamner, Allison Prillaman
Videographer: Ken Kline

Instrumentalists: Robert Scott, flute; David Simpson, bassoon

Your prayers are requested for the following parishioners: Dick Arrington, Laura Brendle, Rick Durden, Marla Foster, Carolyn Fillmore, Emily Crump Johannes, Valinda Johnson, Carma Marks, Richard McCrory, Pat McDonald, Eddie McDowell, Dot Moore, Martha Collier Mosely, Cameron Napier, Bud Nason, Elizabeth Potter, Shirley Price, Carrie Shaw, Debbie Steindorff, Bill Stewart, Barbara Wallace, Florence Young

Prayers are also requested for these friends: Gail Alsobrook, Mac Burton, Phil Butler, Courtney Cobb, Lizzy Dickens,  John Ferguson, Bob Geddie, Mark Grantham, Roger Holliday, Stephanie Holmes, Josie Lee, Martha Ellen Locke, Charles Lewis, Nicole Lusk, Margaret Moore, Pat Patterson, Serge Ruffato, Ron Skoneki, Alice Smith, Johnny Smith, Madera Spencer, Chandler Taylor, Connie Thomas, Katherine Weidner, Michael White, Frank Winkler, Ross Wisnewski, Sharon Carney Wright

Pastoral Care Team for May: Pastoral Care Team for May: Florence Young, Jeanne Drummond, Marla Foster, Cam Hughes, Mitzi Waldo