ST. ALBAN’S MEMORIAL SCHOOL (Est. 1947)

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of St. Alban’s Memorial School is to encourage and nurture academic, spiritual, physical and social growth in a Christian environment.

LOCATION

St. Alban’s Memorial School is located at 30th and Waco Drive in a newly remodeled building adjacent to St. Alban’s Episcopal Church. Phone 254.756.4841

ADMISSION POLICY
St. Alban’s admits students without regard to race, religion, or national origin. Children entering 3, 4 or 5 year old programs or first grade should have observed their respective birthday on or before September 15th of the year in which they enter school. Placement in St. Alban’s School is determined by the Director. New students take an entrance exam prior to admission, or shortly thereafter. All new students must furnish St. Alban’s with a copy of their birth certificate, a current immunization record, copy of Social Security card, the entrance application, and appropriate fees. Early registration is recommended. When classes reach maximum enrollment, a waiting list is started. Tuition assistance, when available, is based on need.

PAYMENT POLICY

The fall enrollment fee and first month’s tuition are due by August 15. Spring enrollment fee is due by January 15. Tuition is billed monthly and is due by the 15th of the month. Parents also have the option to pay a semester’s tuition or the entire annual tuition. Bills must be kept current monthly or financial arrangements must be made for the child to remain in school.

TEACHER-PUPIL RATIO
The teacher-pupil ratio is one teacher to sixteen students. Small class size allows for special attention to gifted and talented students and all other students who need additional help. Small groups also ensure that each child receives close attention in a warm, nurturing environment.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM
The preschool curriculum features a balance between the development of language, social and perceptual/motor skills with dramatic play, art, creative movement, music, nature studies and field trips. This program is an activity-oriented program. Students participate in chapel services and in the observance of religious holidays.

KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM
The kindergarten program stresses language readiness, social skills, and includes emphasis on phonics, reading, and mathematical readiness. Hands-on activities, using manipulatives are an integral part of the instruction.

GRADES 1-6
In grades 1-6 our academic program emphasizes the basic tools of learning – reading, writing, mathematics. The curriculum is varied, rich in music, physical education/health, art, Spanish, computer, and library. Exploration of social studies, current events, geography, and science encourages awareness of the world in which we live. Students participate in the Private Schools Interscholastic Association competition.

LANGUAGE ARTS
The language arts program focuses on reading for comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary development, enhanced by independent and recreational reading and process writing. Grammar and creative writing are important facets of the curriculum. Major emphasis is placed on reading strategies, comprehension, phonics, word attack skills, and spelling. Research skills in the use of the dictionary and encyclopedia, and map and graph reading are taught. The Junior Great Books Reading Program is included in the curriculum.

MATHEMATICS
Our program for grades K-6 is Saxon Math. This program enables all children to develop a solid foundation in the language and basic concepts of all areas of mathematics. Saxon uses a spiraling method, in which new learning is presented in increments and concepts built on prior learning. Students use manipulatives, engage in discussions, and work in cooperative groups. Emphasis is placed on the mastery of mathematical concepts, computation, and problem solving.

SCIENCE/SOCIAL STUDIES

The science curriculum includes physical and life sciences with study focusing on scientific method and evaluation. Students participate in an on-campus science fair and the Regional Science Fair at Baylor. Science-related field trips provide enrichment throughout the year. The history curriculum includes Texas, U.S. and World History and Geography. Grades 5 and 6 students participate in the History Fair at Baylor. Hands-on experiences enhance learning in science and history.

COMPUTER LAB

Our networked Macintosh computer lab is equipped with software and instructional materials correlated to all areas of the curriculum and age-appropriate for students in Pre-K 4-Grade 6. Students also have access to the internet for research and instructional purposes.

SPANISH

The Spanish program provides a setting for the students to master listening/comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing skills and to become familiar with different Spanish customs and cultures.

ART

Art instruction enhances the regular curriculum. Students explore artistic expression through media, Art history and aesthetics.

MUSIC

All levels of the music program incorporate the essential elements of singing, listening/moving to music, and playing instruments. The 4th, 5th, and 6th grades study about the Symphony Orchestra and beginning music theory. An important part of the music experience is the process of working toward music performances throughout the year.

LIBRARY

The librarian provides library instruction and supervises the Accelerated Reader Program. The school has a spacious, well-equipped library for research and reading, consisting of picture books, novels, reference books, video tapes, and magazines.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The physical education program at St. Alban’s provides activities that promote the child’s physical, educational, emotional, and social well-being. Each year the students participate in the American Heart Association Jump Rope for Heart; compete with other parochial schools in volleyball, flag football, softball, and basketball; participate in the Presidential Physical Fitness Test; and in an annual Field Day.

EXTENDED DAY CARE PROGRAM

The extended day-care program includes before and after-school hours from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

PARENT PARTICIPATION

St. Alban’s School has a very active and supportive PTO. Parents participate as volunteers in car pooling for field trips, fund-raising, reading to students, substituting, chaperoning, and supporting the teachers and students in other projects.

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We believe that God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, is the foundation of all wisdom and the source of all truth for those who teach and those who learn; that St. Alban’s Memorial School exists by the grace of God as a secure and lively center for sound learning, new discovery and the pursuit of wisdom in an ever-changing and challenging world; that each child is born with a spirit of love; that this spirit is nurtured by education; that education is achieved by the application of calm strength and Patient wisdom; and that calm strength and patient wisdom teach the love of whatever is just and true.

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St. Alban’s Memorial School was founded in 1947 by The Reverend Charles Higgins, the first rector of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church. The School was established under the auspices of the Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Texas. St. Alban’s encourages creative, spiritual, social, emotional, and intellectual growth in a variety of settings in order to address the broad range of human development. A sound elementary education in a Christian environment prepares students to assume their responsibilities as citizens of the world, and a challenging educational program centered on the “whole child” supplies the spiritual framework which cultivates responsibility, respect for diversity, and zest for learning. With classes of limited size, the school’s environment fosters self-motivation, service to others, and mutual respect, providing children with skills that empower them to become independent thinkers and learners. Dignity, self-esteem, and self-discipline are nurtured through the sharing and modeling of the Christian story. From pre-kindergarten through grade 6, St. Alban’s emphasizes the skills and habits that promote academic excellence, focusing on the individual needs of each student and recognizing that the primary purpose of St. Alban’s is education. Blessed to “be a blessing”, students leave St. Alban’s well prepared to continue their academic and social development. St. Alban’s Memorial School embraces Christian principles and welcomes a diverse student body from all religions, cultures, and ethnic backgrounds.

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Christian Education at St. Alban’s

SUNDAY SCHOOL: For ages 3 years through adults – Christian Education begins at 9:00 a.m. each Sunday. Classes are designed for each age group to know and follow Christ. Substitute teachers are always needed, call the church office, 752-1773. Classes include: Adult Bible Study Class, High School Life Sharing Group.

YOUTH GROUPS: Separate high school and junior high groups meet weekly under the direction of lay youth director.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Teachers, aides and students come together for 3 days each summer for Bible stories, games, snacks, and songs. Ages 3 years to 6th grade with teachers and aides selected from adults and junior/senior high students. 752-1773.

MEN’S THURSDAY A.M. GROUP (HANDS): The St. Alban’s men meet each Thursday morning, 6:30-7:45 a.m., for breakfast, Bible study and prayer.

BAYLOR CANTERBURY ASSOCIATION: A ministry to Episcopal students of Baylor University led by a Canterbury Chaplain at The Canterbury House, 10th St. and Bagby, near the Baylor campus. Program Schedule: Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist, Dinner and Program. Students worship on Sunday mornings at one of the three Episcopal Churches in Waco.

 

 

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St. Alban’s Staff

Name Position Email
The Rev. Jeff W. Fisher (More) Rector  
Clint Capers Community Outreach Coord.
Scott Bryant Ministry Coordinator
Maria Sanchez Nursery Director
David Gilbreath Organist
David Schleicher Lay Youth Minister
Gabino Sanchez Sexton
Karen Tanner Business Manager
Howard L. Thompson Choirmaster
Mary Ann Thompson Carillonneur

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First Half of Church Building is Constructed (1950)

OUR HISTORY

The first official action for the establishment of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church was taken by the Vestry of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Waco Texas, on May 1, 1944. They gave their support in establishing a new mission in the growing community of Waco “north of Austin Avenue and west of the Brazos river.” On January 18, 1945 the Rev. Robert R. Brown, rector of St. Paul’s Church, called a meeting of interested communicants willing to move to the new mission. A petition by these communicants was presented to the Bishop, Rt. Rev. Clinton S. Quin, asking that a mission be established in Waco and dedicated to the memory of St. Alban.

The 97th Council of the Diocese of Texas accepted the new mission in January 1946. In September 1946, the Diocese of Texas purchased two lots at the northeast corner of Columbus Avenue and 30th Street for the sum of $2,750.00 to house the new mission. The Rev. Charles Higgins accepted the appointment as Priest in Charge December 8, 1945 and moved with his family to Waco on March 8, 1946.

 On April 21, 1946, St. Alban’s first service was held at Hamilton House, while preparations for permanent facilities were drawn up. A contract for $22,500.00 was let for a parish house at a time when there were less than 50 adult communicants on the mission roster. The building was completed at the end of 1946 including air with a hvac company buffalo ny and with the generous support not only St. Alban’s communicants, but also with support from St. Paul’s.

It was not long, however, until the need for additional land and facilities was realized, and three additional lots were purchased. A three room frame building was completed in September 1947, just in time for the opening of St. Alban’s Day School. After two years of offering pre-school, the School opened a first grade in September of 1949. Also in 1949, the first part of the church was constructed, at a cost of $37,000.00. An impressive dedication service for the new building was conducted on January 22, 1950.

St. Alban’s became a self-supporting parish when accepted by the 102nd Council of the Diocese on January 28, 1951. Another major addition to the St. Alban’s complex was to house the growing number of students; the new St. Alban’s Memorial School opened adjacent to the Church in September of 1951, at a cost of $25,000.00. In November of 1952, the cornerstone for the church’s Narthex and tower was laid as a part of a $87,000.00 expansion of the church and parish house. Installed in the tower in 1953 was a carillon of 36 bronze bells imported from the Netherlands. The bells range in weight from 22 pounds to 6 tons. A two story addition was added to the school in 1953.

A new parish hall was constructed between the church and the original parish hall in 1976. A $300,000 renovation of the worship space was completed in September 1996. A new altar window and renovation of the organ were part of this work. A major addition and renovation of the school was carried out in 1997 at a cost of $1.2 million. New offices for both church and school physically joined the two buildings into one contiguous structure by eliminating an alley. Children no longer have to trek through inclement weather to attend chapel and other activities in the previously separate building. The latest addition to the property is a combination parking lot / school playground completed in February 2000.

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Stained Glass

The windows in the St. Alban’s nave have been called “sermons in glass.” Created by a German artist and installed in the 1950s, their modern, non-representational images form a striking juxtaposition with the gothic architecture of the church. Worshipers have found these unique windows sublime, powerful, comtemplative, and inviting. The main windows in the nave are described below. Additional windows (showing the Blessed Virgin Mary greeting St. Elizabeth; Jesus’ encounter with Mary and Martha; St. Alban’s Sword; and the Seal of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas) can be found in the Sacristy and Vesting Room. In addition, the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) Rose Window above the Altar replaced the original fabric reredos in 1996. Crafted by Waco artist Bryant Stanton, the window depicts the Lamb of God (in a field of Texas Blue Bonnets), surrounded by instruments of praise.

The Four Gospels (Rose Window)

The four sections of the St. Alban’s rose window depict images of the four gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. A winged creature with the face of a man at the top of the window represents Matthew who begins his gospel by voicing the human descent of our Lord. At the bottom of the window is the winged creature with the head of an ox, the animal of sacrifice, because he gives a full account of the sacrifice of Jesus.  At the right, a winged lion represents Mark whose gospel begins with, “the voice of one crying in the wilderness.”  This proclamation suggests the mighty roar of a lion.  The eagle at the left represents John, because that gospel soars as on eagle’s wings to the very throne of heaven

The Nativity and Epiphany

This window depicts the beautiful opening to John’s gospel: “And the Word became flesh and lived among us and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). The crib speaks to us of God’s humble birth in a manger at Bethlehem. The candle reminds us of Jesus’ words, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).  The cross above the crib serves as a reminder that this child will die on a cross. The star in the right panel recalls the star that guided the wise men, who are represented by the three crowns in the bottom panel.

Christ the King

Symbols of royalty in this window speak of Christ as the King of Glory.  The most noticeable symbol, the crown, appears in the left panel. While representing the Lord’s kingship over all creation, it also echoes the words of James 1:12: “Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”  Another crown, one made of thorns, appears in the bottom panel to remind us of Jesus’ suffering. Below the crown, extending though the left and right panels, is the scepter,  which again serves as a representation of royal authority. Above the scepter in the right panel is the cross from which our Lord reigned as King. The cross rises from a circle, symbolic of eternity.

Christ the Healer

This window emphasizes Christ’s healing of all people. A serpent in Christian symbolism, such as the one in the left panel of this window, reminds us of more than the serpent in the Garden of Eden.  The image in this window calls to mind one of the stories about Moses with the Israelites in the wilderness.  In this story, the serpent was a sign of God’s will to forgive and heal (Numbers 22:4-9). The healing hand of Christ is pictured in the right panel, lifted in a blessing over a flask that contains oil for healing. The five bleeding wounds of Jesus are pictured in the bottom panel. These wounds at the crucifixion bring true healing and wholeness to all people.

Holy Baptism

This window symbolizes Holy Baptism. The apple in the bottom panel calls to mind the story of Adam and Even eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in Genesis 3. Coming to meet our sin is the hand of God, reaching out to help us even though we continually fall short of God’s glory. The fish, in the upper left panel, is a very ancient symbol for Christ. The dove symbolizes the Holy Spirit who came upon Jesus in the form of a dove at his baptism. In baptism, we are united with Christ through the church in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Christ The Body Of The Church

Jesus says, “I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). The Lamb of God appears in the bottom panel as the source of life for all the branches. The grapes in this window call to mind the wine of the Holy Eucharist, for it is through that meal that we have new life in Christ.

Christ the Carpenter

The array of carpentry tools pictured here symbolize Jesus’ humanity. In the left panel is the saw, in the right the protractor, ruler, square and hammer, and in the bottom panel the block plane. These are arranged to suggest the Chi Ro, the traditional symbol for Christ from the first two letters in the Greek word for Christ, Christos.

The Family Under Christ

This window is symbolic of Christian marriage. Six jars appear in the bottom panel as a reminder of the first miracle Jesus performed at a wedding in Cana of Galilee. The two circles in the center of the window are symbolic of wedding rings. In the left panel, a pair of doves represent two people in marriage, placed under the protection of a Chi Rho, an ancient symbol for Christ. In the right panel, a pheasant representing all humanity is basking in the light of Christ.

Christ the Teacher

The window represents Jesus as the great teacher. The burning candle in the left panel calls to mind Jesus’ words, “I am the light of the world.” (Jn. 8:12) The hand in the right panel is a symbol of God, the creator of heaven and earth. Taken together, these images remind us to continue learning about God and God’s works so that we can abide in the light of Christ.

The Crucifixion

The symbols in this window are the instruments of Jesus’ crucifixion. The cross appears in the left panel with a broken and bleeding heart.  The bottom panel shows the nails which pierced Jesus’ hands and feet.  The right panel shows a spear and sponge.  Soldiers offered Jesus vinegar from a sponge for his thirst and they pierced his side with a spear after he had died.

The Holy Eucharist

The Holy Eucharist, the meal that we share on Sundays to celebrate Jesus’s death and resurrection, is symbolized in this window.  The Lamb of God, Jesus, is being sacrificed and poured out.  The blood of the Lamb is flowing into a chalice.  This image reinforces the words that are said when we receive communion: “The blood of Christ, the cup of salvation.” This image of sacrifice is surrounded by the circle, which symbolizes our eternal life that flows from the Lamb of God.

The Revelation

This stained glass window, which depicts the book of Revelation, stands behind the altar in the Higgins Chapel.  Seven burning lamps appear in the upper panels.  In Revelation, these lamps represent the churches throughout the ancient world (Revelation 1:20). The lower panel depicts a great fish beneath the waves of the sea. This image is symbolic of the universal song of praise that bursts forth in praise of the risen Lord: “Every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them” sings to the Lamb on the throne (Revelation 5:13).

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The Rev. Aaron M. G. Zimmerman

Aaron was born in Houston, but his childhood took him to Mexico City; Washington, D.C.; Stockholm, Sweden; and Los Angeles, California, before finally settling in his hometown of Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

After earning a B.A. magna cum laude in History of Science at Harvard, Aaron spent two years with an educational non-profit in Kazakhstan. Aaron later worked as a Research Associate at Harvard Business School and as an Executive Compensation Analyst with H.J. Heinz in Pittsburgh.

He received his Master of Divinity from Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry in 2008. After ordination, he served as Assistant Rector at St. Stephen’s Church in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Pittsburgh, and as Associate Rector for Discipleship and Family Ministries at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Houston. Aaron is a contributor to Mockingbird and Liberate.

Aaron’s wife, Andrea, is originally from Michigan, and holds two degrees from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She has worked in church ministry, apparel design, and as a non-profit director. Married since 2002, they are proud parents of three children.

Contact Aaron

Grace Brown
Grace Brown
Director of Student Ministry

 

Grace joined our staff in 2013. Originally from Irvine, California, she is currently a junior majoring in Social Work at Baylor. She brings extensive student ministry experience to St. Alban’s, having organized and led Bible studies, events, and mission trips for middle and high school students. Her mission experience includes working with orphans in Kenya, children in Mexico, and the homeless on L.A.’s Skid Row. Grace loves working with students and is very excited to be a part of St. Albans!

Contact Grace.

Jole R. Cromwell
Jole R. Cromwell
Coordinator for Children’s Ministry and Parish Life

 

Jole oversees our Children’s Ministry, including leading Children’s Chapel, and coordinating our Godly Kids and Godly Play classes, our Nursery, and other Children’s Programs. In addition, she assists in coordinating Parish events and additional Spiritual Formation opportunities for all ages.

A longtime member of St. Alban’s, Jole grew up in Richmond, Texas, a member of Calvary Episcopal Church. After earning her B.S. in Education from Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, she spent 30 years as a teacher. Before joining the St. Alban’s, she served as Program Director of the Youth Development Services at the YMCA of Central Texas. She loves children–especially her grandchildren.

Contact Jole.

Hilary Gardner
Hilary Gardner
Parish Administrator

 

Hilary is on the front line at St. Alban’s, serving as office manager, receptionist, and executive assistant to the Rector.  Before coming to St. Alban’s, she has worked as an editor, a teacher, and an office manager.

Hilary earned her BA and MA degrees in history.  She enjoys reading books on British and American history and also loves traveling, swimming, and shopping.  A native of Kansas City, Hilary has lived in San Diego, New Orleans, and now Waco for the past 19 years. She and her family are members of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.  Her husband is a Baylor professor. They have a son in high school.

Contact Hilary.

David Gilbreath

David Gilbreath

Organist

David has many decades of church music experience.  He began by playing the piano for church services at the age of twelve. He has studied organ privately with teachers in Fort Worth, Stephenville, and Waco. Prior to coming to St. Alban’s, David’s church music experience includes Organist/Choirmaster at First Christian Church in Stephenville; Organist, Central Christian Church, Waco; Director of Handbell Choirs, Seventh & James Baptist Church, Waco; and Organist, Lake Shore Baptist Church, Waco.
He is a graduate of Tarleton State University where he earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in education.  David has over thirty years of experience in public education, teaching in Stephenville ISD, Midway ISD, and working as an administrator for twenty years at Rio Brazos Education Cooperative in Waco. David currently works for Waco ISD and Baylor University in the teacher education program.
Rebekah Hughes
Rebekah Hughes
Newcomer Ministry Coordinator

Rebekah began attending St. Alban’s in 2005.  She received her B.A. in Music from UCSB in 2004, after which she came to Waco to pursue her Masters in Music at Baylor. Her husband, Ross, manages LensCrafters at the Richland Mall. They have two young children. At St. Alban’s, Rebekah is on staff as the Newcomer Ministry Coordinator and ensures that visitors and newcomers are welcomed and connected to the parish.

Contact Rebekah.

Elaine Karban
Elaine Karban
Outreach Center Coordinator

Elaine has served as Coordinator of the Outreach Center since 2011. She is a life-long Wacoan and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma with a degree in Professional Writing.  Before coming to St. Alban’s, she was the Director of Development at St. Louis Catholic School. She and her husband, Jim, who is employed at Baylor University, have two grown children and are long-time members of Austin Avenue United Methodist Church.

Contact Elaine.

Vicki Kabat
Vicki Kabat
Communications Coodinator

Vicki serves as Communications Coordinator for St. Alban’s, overseeing our newsletter, The Epistle, our weekly worship bulletin, and other print materials. She is a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism and has worked in publications and marketing throughout her career. She served as Director of Communications for Baylor University School of Social Work for five years and previously as founding editor of Baylor Magazine. She retired from Baylor in 2010. She and her husband, Bruce, who recently retired from 35 years at the Waco Tribune-Herald and now is a teacher at Talitha Koum Therapeutic Childcare Center, have three grown sons and three grandchildren. Vicki and Bruce are members of CrossTies Ecumenical Church, where Vicki teaches in its Servant Leadership School and directs Contemplative Prayer Retreats.

Contact Vicki.

Karen K. Tanner
Karen K. Tanner
Business Manager

 

Karen has been at St. Alban’s since September 1996. She received her Bachelor’s in Business Administration at TWU and worked for several years in the banking and finance industry. Her husband, Jeff, is a professor at Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business. They have four grown children. At St. Alban’s, Karen has responsibility over finances, database administration, gifts and contributions, and human resources.

Contact Karen.

Gabino Sanchez

Gabino Sanchez

Sexton

 

A native of Monterrey, Mexico, Gabino has served as sexton at St. Alban’s for 10 years. His work keeps our church, campus, and grounds welcoming and in good order. He is a proud father and grandfather. His wife, Maria, works in St. Alban’s nursery on Sundays, and is beloved by many of our youngest members.

Howard L. Thompson
Howard L. Thompson
Director of Music and Choirmaster

 

Howard has been the Director of Music and Choirmaster at St. Alban’s since 2003.  He also serves as Assistant Organist. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Furman University in Greenville, SC; the Master of Music degree from Baylor University and has done doctoral study at the University of Texas at Austin. He has served several churches in the Waco area as organist or choir director over his career including Temple Rodef Shalom and 17 years at Austin Avenue UMC. Howard was the choral music director at Midway High School for 20 years and was the Director of Fine Arts for the district 10 years. He retired from the public schools in 2005.  Along with his service to St. Alban’s, he is also an adjunct professor of music at McLennan College in Waco.

Contact Howard.

Mary Ann Thompson
Mary Ann Thompson
Carillonneur

 

Mary Ann has been the carillonneur at St. Alban’s for 8 years.  She plays the 36-bell carillon before the 10:00 AM Sunday service each week as well as at weddings and funerals. Mary Ann is a graduate of Baylor University and works as the music teacher at Speegleville Elementary in the Midway ISD. She is married to Choirmaster Howard Thompson.

The Rev. Aaron M. G. Zimmerman Read More »

Who We Are Our Beliefs

Our beliefs are summed up in the historic statements of faith: The Apostle’s and Nicene Creeds. Our worship is rooted in the Anglican tradition expressed in The Book of Common Prayer. We accept the 66 canonical books of the Old and New Testaments as the Word of God, containing all things necessary for salvation.

A useful summary of the history of the Episcopal Church can be found here. 

Core Values

  • Worship
  • Acceptance
  • Youth and Children
  • Outreach
  • Lifelong Christian Formation

Our History

St. Alban’s began in 1946 as a church plant of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in what was then the outskirts of Waco. By September 1946, the Diocese of Texas purchased two lots at the northeast corner of Columbus Avenue and 30th Street for the sum of $2,750 to house the new church. The Rev. Charles A. Higgins, a former missionary, musician, and WWII POW, was the first Rector of the parish

Our first service was on Palm Sunday, April 21, 1946, in the Hamilton House (now a store on Austin Avenue), while plans were made for our own permanent home. We first built a parish house on our lot (where the church offices and music room are now), which also served as our first worship space. At that time, there were about 50 adult members. The building was completed at the end of 1946 with the generous support not only of St. Alban’s communicants, but also with support from St. Paul’s.

The church grew quickly and was full of families and young children. It wasn’t long until we needed more space. Three additional lots were purchased. Under Parson Higgins’ leadership, a three-room frame building was completed in September 1947 to house the newly founded St. Alban’s School. After two years of offering a pre-school, the School opened a first grade in September of 1949. Also in 1949, the first part of the church building was constructed. An impressive dedication service for the new building was conducted on January 22, 1950.

St. Alban’s became a self-supporting parish in 1951. That same year, we had to add another major addition to St. Alban’s School to house the growing number of students. In 1952 and 1953, the church was expanded to include the present-day narthex (or lobby) and the impressive bell tower. In 1953 a carillon of 36 bronze bells was imported from the Netherlands and installed in the tower. The bells range from 22 pounds to 6 tons.

Through the years, we have continued to expand and improve our facilities to expand our ministries. A major expansion was completed in 1996. In 2006 St. Alban’s School transitioned to become the St. Alban’s Outreach Center, home to organizations and ministries that serve Waco. Currently, the Central Texas String Academy, the Community Race Relations Council, and several 12-Step Programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) use the Outreach Center. In addition, in 2014 the church’s ministries began to use this space again, with a remodeled Student Ministry room and a new room for our Godly Kids class (Sunday School for ages 8-10).  On a daily basis, the Outreach Center enriches the cultural life of Waco, strengthens families, encourages youth, fosters artistic development, and offers real help and support to people in our community.

In 2012, then-Rector the Rt. Rev. Jeff Fisher, was elected to Suffragan Bishop of the Diocese of Texas. In 2013, we welcomed our eleventh Rector, the Rev. Aaron M.G. Zimmerman, his wife, Andrea, and their three children. Rev. Zimmerman brings experience in ministry to all ages, with a focus on outreach, cultural engagement, and family ministry—all with an emphasis on God’s grace in Jesus Christ. St. Alban’s continues to be an exciting and growing community.

Who We Are Our Beliefs Read More »

Outreach Center

The St. Alban’s Outreach Center welcomes our outreach partners in ministry into the space formerly used by St. Alban’s Memorial School. For questions, please contact Elaine Karban, our Outreach Center Coordinator. From the Outreach Center, we are pleased to minister with and to:

Central Texas String Academy

Using the Suzuki method, the Central Texas String Academy (CTSA) teaches children to play stringed instruments, mainly during the afternoon hours. CTSA students and instructors contribute to the worship life at St. Alban’s by playing in our highly attended Advent Worship for the Evening, which is an annual gift to the city of Waco. CTSA students also form an orchestra for occasional worship services and individual students provide music during communion, mainly during the spring. We even got drone photography of our academy.

12 Step Programs

Numerous 12 Step Programs use the Outreach Center for their meetings, such as Al-Anon, Al-A-Teen and Overeaters Anonymous.

Outreach Center Read More »

Planned Giving at St. Alban’s

From the beginning, the members of St. Alban’s have been known for their abundant generosity and careful planning. The founders of our church gave sacrificially, but also took great care to ensure the legacy of this parish would last. Towards that end, they set up three ways St. Alban’s members could give financial gifts to ensure the future of our parish. They are the Memorial Fund, the Organ Fund, and the Endowment Fund. Each fund is described below. If you would like to discuss giving to these funds, please contact the Rector, the Rev. Aaron M. G. Zimmerman, or Karen Tanner, Business Manager, at the church office.

The Memorial Fund

The Memorial Fund is intended to enable St. Alban’s to purchase items for its ongoing ministry and worship that fall outside normal operating funds. In practice, the Memorial Fund allows St. Alban’s to procure vessels, vestments, and other items used at the altar when Celebrating Holy Eucharist. In addition, the Memorial Fund has allowed the parish to make improvements to our campus, like the recent installation of lighting in front of the church. Gifts to the Memorial Fund are often given in memory of a departed loved one or in thanksgiving for the service of a member of St. Alban’s.

The Organ Fund

As its name implies, gifts given to the Organ Fund ensure that our magnificent organ will continue to fill our nave with magnificent music for generations to come. This fund has allowed the Parish to make significant improvements to the Organ in 2013 and 2014, including the cleaning, reparing, and replacing of many of the pipes, as well as refurbishing the organ chamber. The next major project is re-leathering of the organ, which is slated to take place at some point over the next two to three years.

The Endowment Fund

The History of the Endowment Fund

St. Alban’s Endowment Fund was established in 1976 as a vehicle for parishioners and others to provide lasting support for the growth of the Church and to provide a capital fund for the general support and maintenance of the parish in fulfillment of its religious mission. While the early years saw little growth, more recent years have seen strong capital growth but perhaps more importantly, strong parishioner support. In 2008, for example, the Fund saw a 20% increase largely due to contributions totaling well over $60,000. In 2013, the fund saw a 15.2% increase in market value. As of December 31, 2013, the market value of the fund’s assets was $642,942.

The Endowment Fund’s Support of St. Alban’s

The first support of the Church by the Fund was in the form of a loan to St. Alban’s School in 1994. This loan, representing almost a third of the total value of the Fund, enabled St. Alban’s School to upgrade its facilities by completing deferred maintenance. However, given the Fund’s size (less than $80,000 at the time), a goal was set to grow it to $500,000 before making any further distributions once the loan was repaid.

In 2010, the Fund had grown sufficiently that it was able to begin supporting St. Alban’s financially with a modest amount. In 2011, St. Alban’s had the opportunity to have the Rev. Jimmy Abbott join the clergy as Assistant Rector. While the Diocese covered half of his salary, the Endowment Fund shared the other half with the Church, making it feasible for the Parish to benefit from Jimmy and Maggie’s talents.

That same year the opportunity arose to acquire additional Waco Drive property frontage. To enable the Church (through the Diocese) to acquire the property without incurring debt, the Endowment Fund provided a large portion of the purchase price. This unique opportunity did take the Fund below a balance of $500,000, but since one purpose of the Fund is to “provide a capital fund,” the expenditure was considered appropriate.

In 2013, the Fund underwrote the cost of the repair of the new heating and air conditioning in the Parish Hall, by pledging assets of the fund as collateral for a loan of $127,430. Going forward, distributions from the Fund will pay down the loan.

Common Questions about the Endowment Fund

1. How does the Endowment Fund differ from the Memorial Fund?

Both Funds are opportunities for an individual to remember loved ones with a special contribution to the Church. The Memorial Fund typically supports purchases of long-lasting and non-budgeted items, and is not an endowment. Examples include extraordinary expenditures of the Altar Guild in support of the worship services, and improvements in the Parish Hall facilities. The Memorial Fund could be completely drawn down in a particular year.

Another difference is in giving. The Endowment Fund is the appropriate place for you to remember St. Alban’s with a tithe under your Will or through your estate plan, as well as an appropriate place for a thanksgiving offering at any time.

2. How can I support the Endowment Fund?

Contributions can be made through the Church office, simply by making a check payable to St. Alban’s Endowment Fund.

Another appropriate way to support the Endowment Fund is to name the Fund as a beneficiary in your Will. If you do this, please inform the Church office.

3. When should I support the Endowment Fund?

  • When you want to tithe for unique situations, such as after the sale of a house, winning the lottery, or some other unusual financial event, you can earmark a contribution for the Endowment Fund.
  • When you’ve received some special blessing, such as the gift of a grandchild, and you’d like to offer thanksgiving to God.
  • Name the Fund as a beneficiary under your Will. Several St. Alban’s parishioners who are attorneys will be happy to provide the necessary codicil to your Will at no charge so that your Will can support St. Alban’s. Ask the Church office for a list of these attorneys.
  • When you purchase life insurance, consider adding St. Alban’s Endowment Fund as a beneficiary, after taking care of all other needs.

4. Who manages the Endowment Fund?

There is a Committee of six lay members plus the Rector. The current committee members are Bob Frahm, Hugh Henson, Bob Ratcliff, Jim Sartwelle, Jeff Tanner (Chair), and David Tekell (Vice Chair). These lay positions are appointed by the Vestry at the suggestion of the Rector, for rotating 3-year terms. Committee meetings are open and all members of the Parish are welcome as guests. Let the Rector know if you’d like to be considered for service on the Committee.

Currently, the Fund is in the custody of Stiffel and Joe Bozarth is the investment advisor.

5. How is the Fund invested?

The Fund is invested in mutual funds with a diversified mix of equity and fixed income investments. Other assets, such as life insurance policies naming the Fund a beneficiary, are held in the Church office.

Planned Giving at St. Alban’s Read More »

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