Two days before Thanksgiving Father Rich Dibble initiated the first of four every-other-Tuesday evening Bible studies. This series is an examination of the Old Testament Book of Nehemiah. A casual reader may recall Nehemiah as the story of the rebuilding of Jerusalem, mostly about reconstructing walls and squabbles with neighboring non Jews who were unhappy about their doing so. The first evening we learned of the politics of this massive project, the significance of restoring the heart of Jewish life and faith and what happens when a people loses faith and regains it, howbeit slowly and painfully. The walls may be understood as a metaphor for strength and belief, and for return to community of worship and faithful practice. Yes, Nehemiah was a hard-boiled man, a determined man, a man who acted upon his love of obedience to God. There is more to learn as we continue but in this first discussion we glimpsed ourselves and the Christian life of our parish. Our next session will take place Tuesday evening, December 6 at 7:00. For some the term "Bible study" may be intimidating. Be not deceived. Two hours became three and even then no one wanted to go home to bed. It was that engrossing.

Saturday evening, December 2, the Anglican Women held a Christmas auction with a real live professional auctioneer, Mr. Joe Morino of Waterford. The sale was proceeded by a delicious spaghetti supper. The ladies are pleased. $505.60 was raised. The sixty cents mystifies because items were sold in even dollar amounts. Elaine Stanley is the principal merchant in the temple and a clever one, too. The event was a hoot.