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EvangelEVANGEL
St. Paul-Calvary United Methodist Church Belonging and Growing in God…Together 1427 Memorial Avenue, Williamsport, PA 17701 Phone: 570-322-5054 Fax: 570-322-9005 www.stpaulcalvaryumc.org February Evangel
Thankful in All Things “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 One thing I really appreciate about the Apostle Paul was his attitude of gratefulness. He was always quick to thank God for everything. He showed his gratitude for the humility and obedience of Jesus, the faithfulness of fellow believers, and his calling to proclaim Christ crucified and risen. All are good and worthy things deserving of our thanksgiving. Yet, Paul pushed the boundaries in new ways and challenges us all in one area of gratitude…suffering. Paul often thanked God for the sufferings and trials he encountered in his walk toward righteousness. How amazing it that? Most of us follow the long and tedious road of complaint, but not Paul. He instead offered prayers of praise and thanksgiving for those things that have challenged his faith. In 2 Corinthians 12, Paul thanked God for allowing him to bear a thorn in the flesh. Why? Because that experience edified him and caused him to more fully rely on God’s strength. Paul heard God say, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” And he steadfastly responded, “So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.” (v. 9-10) What would our faith and life look like if we adopted the same practice of thankfulness as Paul? I believe, Friends that we would be more content with whatever life deals to us. We would walk in the assurance that God indeed brings his Sovereign and Almighty presence into our cancers, our addictions, and our financial woes. We would walk in confidence, knowing that our battle belongs, not to us, but to the Lord. And when God fights our battles, God always wins! Are you struggling with a thorn in the flesh? Are you growing weary in the fight? Then thank God. For his grace is sufficient for you. For whenever you are weak, God is strong. Hallelujah! Amen.
Encouraged and Thankful, Pastor Robin FEBRUARY Birthdays/Anniversaries 1 John D. & Sylvia Miller 2 Kathy Dincher 3 Leonard Schanbacher 4 Candice Tate Carl Cohick, Jr Lyneah & Mike Hudock 5 Robert Heiser Guy & Lisa Bass 6 Kimberly LeBlond 8 Chester Maneval 9 MacKenzie Price 10 Bruce & Lauretta Baumgartner 11 Sarah Border Darrell & Barbara Canfield 11 Richard DeMarte 12 Matthew Weigle Lindsay Campbell 13 Ronna Hill Michelle Buhrig Joan Lingle 14 Lois Lilley 15 H. Richard Free 18 Christopher Miller 19 Aaron Cohick 20 Laura Hess 21 Skyler Reed 22 Richard Ashenfelder Michelle Mertes 23 Guy Liguori 23 A.J. Little Faith Smith Andrea Silverstrim 25 Samantha Miller 26 Jane Levengood Derek T. Weigle Erika Haag Austin Haag Kelley-Ann Clemens Jim Walls 27 Alexis Miller 28 Scott Border Shirley Knight 29 Madeline Fox Our sincere Christian sympathy is extended to the families of: Janis Skoog who died January 18, 2012. Sara (Sally) Young, who died January 18, 2012 Hoss’s Night -- Please consider eating at Hoss's on Monday, February 6. Get a ticket from the Long Sunday School Class and present it when you place your order. Hoss's will then donate 20% of your total check to us. Save your receipt and give it to Dale Stebner for a chance to win a Hoss’s gift card. BOOK CLUB – We will be discussing the book “If Wishes Were Horses” by Robert Barclay. Join us on Monday, February 20 at 7 pm in the church parlor. On March 19th we will discuss “The Postmistress” by Sarah Blake. St. Paul-Calvary's Community Dinner We will be celebrating God’s blessings with friends and family at St. Paul-Calvary’s Community Dinner on Friday, February 24th. Serving begins at 5:30 pm. Madison Family, Lima, Peru -- Dan and Conner will be at St. Paul-Calvary February12th. We will enjoy a noon Fellowship Luncheon with them. Email -- madisontd@yahoo.com DanTalicia Madison is where they can be found on Facebook. Check them out on Facebook to see what they are up to and to see pictures. YOUTH NEWS Youth Fellowship meets on Sunday evenings from 6:30 pm - 8 pm. February 4 - - - - Dorothy Long Class Vegetable Beef Soup Sale!! Cost is $4.50 per quart. Krebs Sunday School Class Hoagie Sale – Saturday, February 18th. Cost is $4 each for either a turkey or ham hoagie. See any class member to order or fill out an order form in the bulletin. Angel Tree – Thank you to all who helped to purchase gifts this year! It is a blessing for us, as well as the children and their families who appreciate this act of kindness. Charlene Carson. LOST AND FOUND: Reminder -- There is a lost and found box in the parlor by the telephone. Found: a “Sound Mate” personal listening system was found in a pew. You may pick it up from the office desk. A ladies pair of black gloves was found in the parking lot.
The 2012 Susquehanna Camping Season is upon us. You may go on line at www.susumcamps.org for more information and to register. Brochures are also available in the parlor. “St. Paul-Calvary will pay $100 of the registration fee for those children/youth ages 5-18 attending a Christian based camp. (One camping experience per child per year.) This fee is payable as a reimbursement upon receipt of proof of payment from said camp.” From the Leadership Team. Sally Knipe will be our VBS 2012 Coordinator! She will work closely with JJ Rhinehart (Education Team Leader) and the rest of the VBS volunteers to select and present a dynamic and Christ-centered one-week program to the children of St Paul Calvary, their friends and the neighborhood. Strong administrative and delegating skills and a passion for working with kids are a must! Please prayerfully consider ministering to our children by helping with VBS in Summer 2012. Contact JJ at 478.2028 or jjrhinehart1@verizon.net for more information. Treasurers of all Sunday School Classes and any other organizations are asked to please submit your financial books to be audited to the church office by February 12, 2012. The auditors will then have them ready for you to pick up again by March 1, 2011. Calvary United Methodist Church Cat’s Meow miniatures The Seekers Sunday School Class members are selling miniatures replicas of Calvary United Methodist Church. The cost is $20.00. Calvary’s historical beginnings are noted on the back: “The Pioneer Church of Williamsport Pennsylvania, 1776-1930. The Church was the foothold on which Methodism grew in the area. The Calvary Methodist Episcopal Community Church had its beginning very early in the life of our country and American Methodism, the ground was consecrated in March, 1776 A.D. four months before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Today, Hutchinson Realty Development, LLC refurbished and repurposed the building into luxury apartments. The beautiful stained glass windows and working pipe organ adorn the sanctuary.” Pictures of the Calvary United Methodist Church miniatures are displayed on posters throughout our building. They are available in Krebs Hall during the Sunday morning fellowship time or from any member of the Seeker’s Class or the Church office for $20.00 each. Adult Sunday School and Bible Study Opportunities The Seekers Class is studying the book “Living the Mission - A Spiritual Formation Guide”. This 12-week study is dedicated to nurturing spiritual formation through the study of Scripture. Devotional excerpts from the writings of Billy Graham, Dallas Willard, Bruce Willard, Max Lucado, and others enhance and challenge the reader to examine their spiritual life and how to grow deeper in discipleship. The Dorothy Long Class is studying "Living in God's Presence" A Study of Psalms. This study will go through February 26. The Faith Builders Class studies a variety of Scripture based topics. The Gilmore/Caris and Isabel Krebs Classes are studying the International Sunday School Lessons for Christian Teaching. This Bible study is designed to help adults understand the meaning and authority of the Bible for Christian living. 6:00 pm Wednesdays, in the Adult Sunday School Room, there is a new study appropriate for all people regardless of how long they have been a Christian or how many years they have attended church. It is entitled simply, "KNOWING GOD". This study will help everyone understand more about the God who loves, forgives, and challenges us. It will incorporate scripture, teaching, and both small and large group discussion. Come and grow in God together!!! Looking Ahead -- throughout Lent we will be studying Adam Hamilton’s “24 Hours that Changed the World” at 6pm each Wednesday. Mission Central Presents: “SPOTLIGHT ON BOLIVIA” On Saturday, March 3rd, from 1-3 p.m., Mission Central, located at 5 Pleasant View Drive, Mechanicsburg, will host “Spotlight on Bolivia”. (In case of snow or other inclement weather, the program will be postponed to March 17th.) The program will begin with a presentation by Bob and Ginny Stevenson about The Bolivia Mission Initiative, an Advance project that provides children’s programs, medical clinics, church development, etc. in Bolivia. From 1:45-2:15 p.m., you will have the opportunity to purchase items from the Bolivia Boutique, a selection of sewn goods and jewelry made by women in Bolivia. The sale of these items enables women to support their families, their church, and a daycare program. In addition, warehouse tours will be available; refreshments will be served; and door prizes will be drawn. From 2:15-3 p.m., you will learn about the many unique ways that you can be involved in this multifaceted mission with our brothers and sisters in Bolivia. There will also be a question and answer session. Come early to check out the Mission Central Store inventory and stop in the Main Hall to check out the wide selection of used VBS curriculum. There is no charge for this event. Registration is not required unless you are bringing a group of 5 or more people. Buses are welcome! For more information or to register a group, contact Wanda Jacobs, Mission Central's Mission Education Chairperson, at 717-645-7424, or buddy.beetle@verizon.net .
CIRCLE OF PRAYER CHURCHES February 5-February 11 February 12-February 18 February 19-February 25 Trinity UMC, Walnut Bottom Wallis Run UMC, Williamsport Sanborn UMC, Osceola Mills Coalmont UMC, Saxton Ross UMC, Bellefonte Halifax UMC, Halifax Wesley UMC, Marysville Buckhorn UMC, Bloomsburg Royer (Ext) UMC, Martinsburg Mt. Airy UMC, Dillsburg Summerhill UMC, Berwick Grace UMC, Mechanicsburg Freedom Ave UMC, Burnham Geyers UMC, Middletown Faith Community UMC, Troy Coolidge Hollow UMC, Morris RalstonUMC,Ralston Clear Ridge UMC, McConnellsburg Whites Valley UMC, Pleasant Mount Scott Valley Montdale UMC, Scott Township Curtin UMC, Howard Mifflinburg UMC, Mifflinburg Hill UMC, Millerstown Evans Falls UMC, Tunkhannock Faxon-Kenmar UMC, Williamsport Centennial UMC, Williamsport First UMC, Millersburg
What’s new in the Church Library?
United Methodist Women News We have a new “COUPON SWAP” box in the library. Please clip and drop your unwanted coupons in the box marked “COUPON SWAP BOX”. While you are there, take out coupons for any products you use. “No limit” . Exchanging coupons for brands that you use versus ones you do not use will increase everyone’s ability to save more at the checkout line. Our next meetings are February 21st. Our program will be “Call to Prayer and Self-Denial”. Pat Renn will present the 2pm program and Donna Haag will present the 7pm program. Come out to one or both of the meetings. Reservations for the dinner theater to be presented April 19, 20, 21 and 22, 2012, may be made by contacting Larry Rhinehart at 546-7294 or sheepshed@windstream.net. Cost is $15. Friday, April 20, and Saturday, April 21 are sold out. Seats for Thursday and Sunday are still available.
A note from the Finance Team to the Congregation As we move into 2012, we want to pause to express our gratitude for your faithful service to God in the form of your tithes and offerings given to St Paul Calvary Church this past year. You all should be proud that our conference apportionments were paid in full as well as our obligations to the staff, ministries, and upkeep of our own church properties. Our prayer is that we can continue to count on your support as we continue to fund the ministries God has called and will be calling us to in 2012. A huge thank you to all team leaders for your work at fulfilling your ministry areas within the spending plan limits during 2011. And finally, a debt of gratitude to John Dougherty and Susan Girton for the countless hours each has given in service to God. John has been the Finance Team Leader for the past two years. He has attended many of the meetings of other teams to keep them abreast of their financial status. He has informed the Finance Team of a variety of trends in both giving and spending and has provided unparalleled leadership in the decision making processes of the team. Susan, a veteran of many years of service, continues as Church Treasurer. She spends many hours each week recording income, paying bills, processing payroll and providing financial reports keeping us informed. THANK YOU TO ONE AND ALL! 2012 Finance Team, Jim Haag OOPS…………………..!! I missed changing these addresses before running off the directory. Please make the corrections in your directories. And please let me know if you find any other changes that need made. Thank you, Debbie Doris Hartranft – 1207 Almond St., Apt. 108, Williamsport, PA 17701-2570 (320-1889) Marie Martin – Rm 103, Presbyterian Home, 810 Louisa Street, Williamsport, PA 17701 Sara Pettit – 1522 High Street, Williamsport, PA 17701 Josephine Schmidt – Valley View Nursing Home, 2140 Warrensville Road, Montoursville, PA 17754 Harold & Mary Scruggs – 253 Old Spring Road, Fort Mill, SC 29715-7072 If you would like the directory e-mailed to you to keep as a reference document on your computer, please let me know. I would like to say thank you to all the volunteers for all the caring and understanding they shared with our Family Promise guests the week of January 15 through 22. We had a family of six who graduated from the program and welcome two new families into the program. It was a very busy but successful week. Thank you volunteers! Sue Fluke. 1. Sue Fluke – 55.25 hours 2. Roger Fluke – 13.25 hours 3. Ed Mertes – 4 hours 4. Jane Mertes – 2.5 hours 5. Jim Haag – 3.25 hours 6. Donna Haag – 2.75 hours 7. Pat Renn – 6 hours 8. Gary Carson – 21.5 hours 9. Charlene Carson – 10.5 hours 10.Fran Harpster – 5 hours 11.Sandy Stanton – 5 hours 12.Sharon Heiser – 3 hours 13.Betty Mills – 6.25 hours 14.Ralph Mills – 3 hours 15.Nancy Rupert – 2.5 hours 16.Girl Scout Troop 60200 – 4.5 hours 17.Sally Knipe – 15.5 hours 18.Aimee Haag – 5 hours 19.Kay Rhinehart – 3 hours 20.Larry Rhinehart – 3 hours 21.Sandra McGinnis – 11 hours 22.Robin Baer – 23.25 hours 23.Dee McGee – l hour 24.Lois Vincent – 11 hours 25.Jack German – 11 hours 26.Ellen Smith – 14 hours 27.Yvonne Dockey – 13.5 hours 28.Gina Uvari – 2 hours FEBRUARY 2012
St. Paul-Calvary United Methodist Church Leadership Team Meeting Minutes, Monday, December 12, 2011 – 7pm Present: Dave Lingle, Jane Mertes, Dee McGee, Pastor Robin Baer, Jim Haag, Dick DeMarte and Yvonne Dockey. Also attending: John Dougherty and Donna Haag. Next meeting: Thursday, January 12, 2012, 7pm I. Opening
Dave Lingle began the meeting by reading Luke 15:1-7, the Parable of the Lost Sheep, followed by an opening prayer. II. Discussion Topics
1) A drop in offerings from this year to last was noted. 2) December offering thus far ahead compared to 2010. 3) $145.52 received from Superior Plus for unknown reason. 4) Seed money transfer was not reflected on the November Treasurer’s report. It will be moved for December; also the description will be changed.
III. Old Business
1. Computer software was installed by Yvonne Dockey on six of the seven computers in the computer lab. Skip Smith will take a look at the monitor at the teacher’s station. Once the problem is resolved the software can be installed on that computer. 2. We authorized $1000 for the purchase of two new copiers, one for the office and one for the library. Given the condition of the copiers, it was agreed that their replacement was critical and could not wait until the next Trustee’s meeting to be acted upon. 3. Ralph Mills will stay on the Trustees Team for the last year of his term thus bringing the classes to the agreed upon 3/2/2 makeup. 4. Dave Lingle reflected on the accomplishments of the Leadership Team during the past year. IV. New Business
· Statistics on guests who have returned were shared. · The welcome greeting format for the worship service will be changed. · A visitor luncheon is being planned after the New Year. · The next steps of faith leading to membership were discussed.
V. Closing Jim Haag led us in a closing prayer. The meeting concluded at 9:00pm. Minutes recorded by: Yvonne Dockey, Secretary – Leadership Team
St. Paul-Calvary United Methodist Church Leadership Team Meeting Minutes, Thursday, January 12, 2012 – 7pm. Present: Jane Mertes, Dee McGee, Larry Rhinehart, Ellen Smith, Pastor Robin Baer, Jim Haag and Yvonne Dockey. Also attending: John Dougherty, Donna Haag and Jeff Haag. Next meeting: Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7pm I. Welcome and Prayer
Pastor Robin opened our first meeting of the New Year with prayer. She then welcomed the newest members of the Leadership Team: Ellen Smith and Larry Rhinehart. Brian Craven was absent. II. Organizing the Team for 2012
1. We reviewed the purpose of the Leadership Team. 9
2. Why were we asked to participate? Forward thinking, positive people of faith who want the absolute best for our church.
III. Devotions/Teaching
1. Pastor Robin led the devotions: Mission-minded vs. Missional churches from Shaped by God’s Heart: The Passion and Practices of Missional Churches. · Mission-minded – supporting mission work of others. · Missional – being and doing mission work as a whole. Primary focus is spirituality. · Devotion: a. Imago Dei – Image of God – image of earthly and image of heavenly. b. Missio Dei – Mission of God – do the will of Him who sent me. c. Gloria Dei – Glory of God – created for God’s glory to do God’s work. **Which one do we want to be? Why are we here? ALL three! 2. Pastor Robin challenged each of us to purchase the book and work through it with her this year. IV. Team Updates 1. Nurture: community dinners are ongoing. Come to dinner and sit with a guest – get to know our neighbors. 2. Outreach: we host Family Promise the week of January 15th. Currently eleven guests will be staying with us. 3. Witness: · Lay Speaker’s dinner is planned for Tuesday, May 15th. · Distributing the New Testament to the neighborhood at Christmas time was very meaningful. · Fall/Winter functions (Halloween party and Christmas party) were well attended by the neighborhood children. (Approx. 45 children.) 4. Trustees: Recognition was given to Dick Free and Ray Harpster for all they have done over the past years. · Roof Project – a contact has been signed with Gale O. Boyer for roof replacement for the church and Scott Street property. a. Scott Street Property - $5,355 (budgeted at $5,000). Approval was not required since it was within the allowable 10% overspend amount. b. Church - $17,970 ($12,785 available from original $30,000 allocated from a maturing CD). Approval was given for the $5,185 difference. The Finance Team will handle sourcing this additional amount.
· Next meeting is February 6th. · John Dougherty will continue to help with special projects such as the church records retention schedule.
· End of the year statistical reports are due January 31st. · Bishop’s Retreat is Monday through Wednesday, January 16-18th. V. Closing Prayer · Larry Rhinehart will lead the devotions next month. · Jane Mertes led us in a closing prayer. · Meeting ended at 9pm. Minutes recorded by: Yvonne Dockey, Secretary – Leadership Team
Dec/Jan Newsletter
Jesus’ Family Tree Read Matthew 1:1-17 I was giving someone a tour of the parsonage the other day when they spotted a poster I have showing the family tree of Jesus dating the whole way back to Adam. It has been a part of the décor of my home for quite some time and quite honestly I don’t even see it anymore. I explained where I had obtained the poster and why it was placed where it is in my house. The tour continued and I soon forgot about it again. Then as I started reading my Advent devotional from Adam Hamilton entitled, The Journey: A Season of Reflections, the very first writing was about Jesus’ family tree. What was God up to putting Jesus’ family tree before my eyes twice in one week? Trying to be obedient to the Spirit’s leading, I settled down and looked at the family tree in more detail. What I noticed was that Jesus’ earthly family was just as screwed up as many of ours! It contains Abraham, father of our faith and wishy-washy husband. It contains Judah, leader of one of the 12 Tribes of Israel and disloyal father-in-law. It contains a prostitute and traitor in Rahab and a woman who tricked her father-in-law into thinking she was a prostitute in Tamar. It includes both an adulteress in Bathsheba and a power hungry murderer in King David. And the list goes on and on. Jesus’ family tree reads like a soap opera of sin. Yet, God chose a troubled family tree to bear his Son. Now, that is grace personified. God, working through Jesus, allowed the failures of the human family to be transformed into the grace of the Divine family. Jesus was not defined by the brokenness of his human family, but instead allowed it to flavor his compassionate relationships with the broken and marginalized. Jesus entered into every relationship with grace first, knowing the scarcity of it in human life. Who in your life needs grace first this Christmas? Who needs to be flavored by your forgiveness and compassion? Is it someone in your own family tree? Or is it someone you just met? Either way, give the gift of grace this Christmas season and see how that gift transforms the world. Have a grace-filled Christmas, Pastor Robin December Birthdays/Anniversaries 1 Marc Keller Sean Keller 2 Skip Smith Lucas German 3 Florence Carson 6 Wayne Stabley Alexis Cole 8 Karen Kinley Casey Newcomer 9 Rich Trowbridge 10 Pat Tate Gene & Laurie Stavitzski 13 Sierra Szuhaj 14 Brynne Harris 15 Abigail Hess Molly Hess Nathaniel Hess Robin Heverly Robert Logue Miriam Shafer 18 Andrew Bean 21 Diane Lilley Avery Miller 23 Missy Curry Shirley Harris Patricia Renn 25 Sue Girton Weston Koser Karen Miller 26 Barbara Canfield Christina Whipple Jessica Handwerk Janice Pollock 27 Matthew Lewis Timothy Steinruck 29 Marian Dailey Tyler Girio Richard & Twila Black Christopher Long Eric & Autumn Hill 30 Jerry Bennett 31 Robin Baer January Birthdays/Anniversaries 1 Sam & Stacy Knipe 2 Kevin Tate Taggert Schanbacher 3 Amie Boocock 4 John H. Miller Jeff Tate Naaman Amos IV 6 Carol Ann Beck Nathan Mix 7 Rodney Black 8 Heather Lilley 9 Katrina Rhinehart 10 Mark Shafer Melissa Goodell 11 Dale Stebner Eva Schanbacher Kenneth Buchen Sandy Stanton 12 Levi Tate 13 Staci Young 14 Eli Keller Patricia Snyder Stacey Knipe 15 Chad Eiswerth Dorothy Wheeland Jennifer Rhinehart Michael J. Hudock lll 16 Isabel Rose Smith 17 Betty Haag Peg Morris 18 Jessica Bass Tara Koser 19 Jim German 20 Todd Parker 21 Denise Kalathas 22 Janet Walter 23 Dick and Erma Carson 25 Jillian Ritter Ken Shuman 26 Jane Szybist Robert Williams Gabriel LeBlond 27 Becky Wither Juliana Rhinehart 28 Debbie McCafferty 29 Jeremy Miller 30 Chet & Dolly Maneval Alexander Rothrock Yvonne Roman 31 Beatrice Cohick Devin Weaver Dennis & Shirley Harris We will have two services on Christmas Eve - a family service at 7pm and a Communion candlelight service at 8:30pm. There will be only one service on Christmas Day. It will be at 10am and no Sunday School will be held on Christmas day. e-mail addresses needed……. Starting with the February 2012 issue the Evangel will be sent electronically. “Hard copies” will be available for those who would rather have it in print form. If you wish to receive the Evangel via e-mail, please make sure Debbie knows your e-mail address before the end of the year. E-mail addresses will also be included in the 2012 Directory which is printed in January. So just let Debbie know (stpaulcalvaryum@verizon.net) how you would like to receive your Evangel – -- --electronically or hard copy. Hoss’s Night -- Please consider eating at Hoss's on Monday, December 5. Get a ticket from the Long Sunday School Class and present it when you place your order. Hoss's will then donate 20% of your total check to us. Save your receipt and give it to Dale Stebner for a chance to win a Hoss’s gift card.
St. Paul-Calvary's Community Dinner We will be celebrating God’s blessings with friends and family at St. Paul-Calvary’s Community Dinner on Friday, December 30th. Serving begins at 5:30 pm. Our dinner menu will be homemade soup, grilled cheese sandwiches and cupcakes for dessert. We are looking for the following donations: sliced White American and Swiss cheese. Do you like to bake? We need cupcakes too. Volunteers may arrive at 4:00 pm to serve, clean up and dine with us. We greatly appreciate the support and willingness of your giving spirit to make these dinners possible. Ecumenical Lunches - The United Churches Wednesday Noon Ecumenical Lunches are held each week from 12 to 1 at Pine Street United Methodist Church. You are assured of a delicious lunch, warm ecumenical fellowship and a thoughtful program designed to enrich your life both mentally and spiritually. No reservations are necessary. The price of the lunch will be announced when catering arrangements are finalized. Both laity and clergy are urged to come and enjoy as many of these programs as possible. December 7 -- Mr. Terry Roller, STEP Inc., “Success Through Engagement and Partnership” 14 – Mr. and Mrs. Carl Schlapi, “Christmas Songs” 21 – Revs. Kevin Brophy and Gwen Bernstine, “It’s Beginning to Sound a Lot Like Christmas” 28 -- No lunch Madison Family, Lima, Peru Email -- madisontd@yahoo.com DanTalicia Madison is where they can be found on Facebook. Check them out on Facebook to see what they are up to and to see pictures. YOUTH NEWS Youth Fellowship meets on Sunday evenings from 6:30 pm - 8 pm. Dec. 4 – 6:30 pm – visiting Williamsport Home Dec. 6 – 6pm – serving at the Christmas Dinner Dec. 11 – 6:30 pm – YF Christmas games All Church - Caroling Party– Sunday, December 18th at 6:30pm. Everyone, come out and enjoy the fun!
CUP / BUCKET RUNNETH OVER When I took on my role with the youth, I asked them what they were interested in doing. The number one thing they all wanted to do is give back to the church. They were feeling as though they always had their hands out asking for donations. I started looking for ways that the youth could give back. The first thing the youth did is paint the basement hallway from the elevator to the fellowship hall. After more research I came across a simple way to make grape juice and the first thing I thought of is Communion. I mentioned finding this recipe to my mother-in-law, Donna Haag. Donna said she might know someone with grapes. About two days later Pappy Haag (Bert) called and told me that Bill Bean had grapes and he would call and find out. A week later, Bill Bean, Pappy and I were picking grapes. The following Sunday the youth made grape juice, enough for 3 Communions and a jar each for themselves. They were so excited about the thought of them making something to be used for church let alone Communion. The juice will be used for Christmas Eve Communion. Most of the kids that were there that night have never worked with a stove or canned. Seeing them sit and watch the jars seal was so great. Their amazement and sense of accomplishment filled my bucket for weeks. Pastor Robin was so right about how the kids/youth of our congregation totally get "it", filling other people’s buckets and so do the other generations in our church. A special THANK YOU to Donna, Pappy and especially the Bean Family for the grapes and help filling my bucket! Aimee Haag
FAMILY PROMISE will be our guests on December 25-January 1 and again on January 15-22. You may sign up to volunteer with Sue Fluke at 435-0408.
Address Change: SMITH, Justin & Kari 6321 W. 111th Ave. Westminster, CO 80020-3171 A WELCOME TEAM MEETING will be held on Tuesday, December 6 at 2pm in the parlor. The WORSHIP TEAM will meet on Thursday, December 8 at 6pm in the parlor. Donna Missigman & Wendy McCormick -- Holiday Benefit Harp Concerts: At St Boniface Church, Williamsport, on Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 2PM & Valley United Methodist Church, Muncy Valley on Sunday, December 11, 2011 at 2PM. All proceeds from both concerts and CD sales will benefit local families in Lycoming and Sullivan Counties affected by recent flooding. St. Paul-Calvary’s Outreach team will be serving at Sojourner Truth’s Saturday Café on December 6th. May we have your help by providing desserts? Please bring your donation to the church kitchen by 10:00 am on Sat., Dec 6th. If you would like to help serve or have any questions, please call Donna Haag – 570-326-0892. Thank you for assisting us in providing lunch for people in need. Poinsettia Order Flowers will be placed in the sanctuary on December 16th These may be presented in Memory of or in Honor of a Loved One or Friend. The cost of a Poinsettia is $6.95 for 61/2” plant. Please complete the information below and send with your check, made out to Barb McLaughlin, 27 Mountain View Drive, Jersey Shore, PA 17740. ORDER DEADLINE – December 11th Red _________ White ________ Presented by: __________________________________________________________________________ In Memory/Honor of: __________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ FINANCE TEAM REPORT This will be my final news article written on behalf of your Finance Team. I informed the members of the Finance Team I am struggling with several personal issues in my life and that, in the best interests of all, it is my decision to step aside as your Finance Team Leader effective December 31, 2011.
The time has come for some new energy to lead your Finance Team. At our recent Church Conference James Haag was duly elected to serve as Finance Team Leader in 2012. By the action taken at the 2011 Church Conference the congregation and I totally support Jim as he assumes his new responsibility. I ask for your prayers for not only Jim but for your entire Finance Team as they begin the new year as stewards of the church’s finances. Throughout these past 23 months I have tried to keep the members of St. Paul-Calvary abreast of our Church’s financial picture through the Evangel. You may recall reading news articles covering such topics as the narrative description of our annual Spending Plan, a report on our Stewardship Giving for the last three years plus periodic updates on our Giving and our Expenses. In addition there were three articles written on the subject of Tithing, an explanation for personal Charitable Deductions and Consecration Sunday information. I close by saying that only through individual prayer and personal commitment by each and everyone in the St. Paul-Calvary Church family will this community of faith live up to our vision statement which is: “Belonging and Growing in God…Together”. John F. Dougherty, Finance Team Leader STEWARDSHIP REPORT The funding ministry for St. Paul-Calvary UM is a year-round responsibility and you, the members of our congregation, are given the opportunity to respond as financial commitments are encouraged throughout the church year. Looking back to 2010 our Consecration Sunday response showed 87 individuals pledging a total of $155,361 to support the 2011 Spending Plan total of $276,571. On October 9, 2011 our Consecration Sunday response resulted in only 37 individuals pledging a total of $80,932 to support the 2012 Spending Plan total of $277,825. Given these figures, does it not seem evident to you that our church is facing a severe challenge ahead of us? For those among us who have not made a financial commitment for 2012, are you concerned enough to insure that there will be sufficient monies received to “fully support” the planned ministries of your church for 2012 and beyond? What will your response be to these two questions? John F. Dougherty, Finance Team Leader 2012 Offering Envelopes will be available beginning December 4th in the hallway behind the sanctuary. If you do not find a box with your name and would like a box, please contact the church office.
Advent Workshop at St. Paul-Calvary was full of fun, as 42 children rang bells and caroled through the corridors and into Krebs Hall. JJ Rhinehart lead the Children’s interactive nativity story of Jesus Birth. Thanks to our Junior Sunday School Class the wonderful smell of fresh baked cookies filled the air. Volunteers decorated trees that now adorn our dining room and Adult Sunday School rooms. The Shut-ins will be receiving beautiful wreaths to display their family photos as well as goodies and greetings from each Sunday School Class. Please bring your donations of “baby” items to add to the Christmas Tree in the Adult Sunday School room. Advent has begun, preparation, anticipation and waiting for our Blessed Savior’s Birth!
DECEMBER 2011
F A M I L Y P R O M I S E H E R E D E C E M B E R 25th T H R O U G H J A N U A R Y 1st
P A S T O R O N V A C A T I O N D E C E M B E R D E C 25 T H R OU G H 31st F A M I L Y P R O M I S E H E R E J A N U A R Y 15th T H R O U G H 22nd
-This is so that we have the church basement for the play that will be right after Easter-
JANUARY 2012
Pastor at Bishop’s Retreat Jan. 16th – 18th Coming February 4 - - - - Dorothy Long Class Vegetable Beef Soup Sale!! You can begin placing your orders in January. Cost this year will be $4.50 per quart. Watch the bulletins and the next Evangel for more information. Circle of Prayer Churches December 4-10 January 1-7, 2012 Wesley Chapel, Breezewood St. Pauls UMC, Nordmont St. Pauls Chapel UMC, Red Lion First UMC, Chambersburg Christ Community, Selinsgrove Asbury UMC, Harrisonville Muhlenburg UMC, Hunlock Creek St. Paul UMC, Manchester Hoffman UMC, Williamsport Trinity UMC, Jersey Shore Camp Hill UMC, Camp Hill Bethlehem Stonepile UMC, Red Lion Clifford UMC, Clifford Uriah UMC, Gardners Bethany UMC, Felton Mt. Zion UMC, Dillsburg Mont Alto UMC, Quincy Oriole UMC, Jersey Shore Hays Grove UMC, Newville Grace UMC, Harrisburg December 11-17 Mt. Zion UMC, Salladasburg Loysburg UMC, Loysburg South Montrose Community UMC, South Montrose Centenary UMC, Steelton Lightstreet UMC, Lightstreet Salona UMC, Mill Hall Forest City UMC, Forest City Thornhurst UMC, Gouldsboro Stairville UMC, Wapwallopen Cove Forge UMC, Williamsburg December 18-24 Mt. Tabor UMC, New Oxford Granville UMC, Lewistown CrossPoint UMC, Harrisburg Christ’s UMC, Julian Mt. Carmel UMC, Orrtanna East Rush UMC, East Rush Retta UMC, Auburn Twp. Faith Chapel UMC, White Deer Bigler UMC, Bigler Central UMC, Wilkes-Barre December 25-December 31 Otterbein UMC, Duncannon Charlton UMC, Harrisburg Trucksville UMC, Trucksville Wesley Chapel UMC, Rouzerville Trinity UMC, Penbrook Foundryville UMC, Beach Haven Stevens Chapel UMC, Clearville Salem UMC, Airville Shawville UMC, Shawville Llyswen UMC, Altoona November 2011 Evangel
Hot, Cold, or Somewhere in the Middle? “I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You’re not cold, you’re not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You’re stale. You’re stagnant. You make me want to vomit.” Revelation 3:15-16 The Message Do these words shock you and cause you to gasp? They should! They are God’s Word to one of the seven churches in Asia described to a disciple named John while exiled on an island called Patmos. While deep in prayer, the Lord showed John the faith journey of the church in a city named Laodicea. Apparently, the members of that church had gotten too comfortable with their faith. They had forgotten their first love. The memory of what Jesus had done for them didn’t impress them anymore. They were spiritually flat. Seeing the direction they were heading, God chose to give that church a huge wake up call. In essence God says, “Get hot again or get out of the Kingdom! I will not tolerate lukewarm faith.” God’s convicting words to the Laodicean church, should cause all of us to re-evaluate our own faith practices. Are you simply going through the motions and playing church, content with a mediocre spiritual life? Or are you passionate for the Lord, always striving to grow in the knowledge and love of God? I suspect that quite a few of us might think we are doing pretty well in the spiritual department because “Hey, we come to church every Sunday.” But beware! The Laodiceans thought the same thing. Revelation 3:17 continues, “You brag, ‘I’m rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone,’ oblivious that in fact you’re a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless.” You see, the folks in the church assumed they had achieved all that God demanded of them. They had done their lot. They had served their time. They worshiped regularly and occasionally gave money to the poor. That was all that was needed, right? Wrong! God wants more. God wants our hearts…our passion. God wants us to be all-in without hesitation. God wants us to be HOT in our faith. Why? Because God is hot for us! God loves us so much that the thought of our sin separating us forever was unacceptable. God came in the person of Jesus to share his divine Passion. God’s love for us isn’t the only reason we should choose to be hot. Like a moth to a flame, hot Christians attract others. People gravitate to those who have energy and life, joy and enthusiasm. We say we want St. Paul-Calvary to grow then we need to get HOT, people! How do we increase our heat quotient? Get involved. It’s that simple. Participate in an existing Bible study and if there’s not one that sparks your interest then start one! Get your hands dirty in a mission activity. There’s nothing like manual labor on God’s behalf to stoke your lukewarm furnace. Be a more regular participant in worship. Notice I didn’t say come to church more often. Come to worship expecting the Holy Spirit to do something awesome in you and be active in worship. Say, “Amen!” if you feel it. Come forward for prayer at the rail when God’s nudging you. Engage in my sermons by asking questions…Yes, you heard correctly. Don’t be afraid to raise your hand while I’m preaching and ask if you don’t understand something or if you have something to share. Worship is the work of the people, not just the pastor. Finally, give your prayer life a shot in the arm. Choose different devotional material so that you don’t find yourself in a spiritual rut. I can find resources that might help challenge you. Just ask! I’d love nothing more than for all of us to be on fire for God. NOVEMBER Birthdays/Anniversaries 3 Larry Steinruck 4 Jean Fetzer 5 Richard Martin 6 Nadia Hall Daniel Reed 7 Cynthia Martin 10 Alicia Burget Felicia Burget Camden Rhinehart 11 Takeena Leftridge 12 Ruby Anne Muse 13 Lauretta Baumgartner 14 Carole Liguori Lois Vincent 15 Marie Tate Lisa Bass Larue & Sallie Schelb Mary Francis 16 Brian Craven 17 Debbie DeMarte Fred McLaughlin 19 Jeremy Blankenship Janet Dougherty Corine Weaver 20 Jennifer Free 21 Virginia McConnell Debbie Wettlaufer 22 Mary Szuhaj Rosetta Willits 22 Glen Francis 24 Matthew Given Elizabeth Knipe Warren Knipe Robert & Beatrice Logue 25 Deborah Shrey 26 Mary Cremo Jaeden Gilyard 27 Jason Newcomer 28 Doris Free 29 Stephen Cohick 30 June L. Hively M/M Kenneth Harding Donald Skoog e-mail addresses needed……. Starting with the February 2012 issue the Evangel will be sent electronically. “Hard copies” will be available for those who would rather have it in print form. If you wish to receive the Evangel via e-mail, please make sure Debbie knows your e-mail address before the end of the year. E-mail addresses will also be included in the 2012 Directory which is printed in January. So just let Debbie know (stpaulcalvaryum@verizon.net) how you would like to receive your Evangel – -- --electronically or hard copy. Our sincere Christian Sympathy to June Flook and family upon the death of Donald Flook on October 12, 2011. Address changes for your directories: Jordan Ritter Florence Metzger Arlene Deppen 3317 West Marlin Avenue Woodland Vista Rm 2 Apt. B914 Tampa, FL 33611 1900 Ravine Road 1900 Ravine Road Williamsport, PA 17701 Williamsport, PA 17701 Hoss’s Night -- Please consider eating at Hoss's on Monday, November 7. Get a ticket from the Long Sunday School Class and present it when you place your order. Hoss's will then donate 20% of your total check to us. Save your receipt and give it to Dale Stebner for a chance to win a Hoss’s gift card. BOOK CLUB – We will be discussing the book “All Through the Night” by Davis Bunn. Join us on Monday, November 21st at 7 pm in the church parlor.
We will be honoring our veterans with the November Fellowship Luncheon on Sunday, November 13 at noon in Fellowship Hall. You may bring a covered dish or dessert to share. Meatloaf and beverage will be provided. Everyone is welcome! UNITED METHODIST WOMEN United Methodist Women will meet at 7pm on Tuesday, November 15th at the parsonage. The program will be “World Thank Offering.” “Re-Use-It” The United Methodist Women will put all proceeds from their “Re-Use-It” shop into their mission support. Have you received a gift and thought--what were they thinking? Or maybe you are redecorating and have some useable items to recycle. Here is a way to put them to good use! Bring them in and put them in the Church Library anytime before November 11th. The Re-Use-It Shop will be open on Sundays November 13 and 20 during the Coffee Fellowship Time. Thank You!! St. Paul-Calvary's Community Dinner provides food, fellowship and opportunities to share God’s love. Volunteers, both youth and adults work together to serve our neighbors and friends. Would you like to help others or share your talents with our Outreach Ministry, please contact Ed Mertes. Our next free dinner will be on Friday, November 18th at 5:30 pm. Our menu will be a taste of Italy – featuring Italian cuisine. Come Join Us, All Are Welcome!
Sojourner Truth Ministries On Sunday, November 6, 2011, if you eat out with your family, friends, or class, 11am to closing, at Hoss’s Family Steak & Sea on the Golden Strip (1954 E. 3rd St, Williamsport), and if you have a CASH COW CARD for each tab, Hoss’ gives 20% of your pre-tax tab to STM. To get your Cash Cow Card(s), send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Sojourner Truth Ministries 501 High St Williamsport PA 17701 or pick it (them) up at STM between 9am & 3pm weekdays.
Free DINNER - WORSHIP AND CELEBRATION on Sunday, November 13, 2011, at 1:00 p.m. Come hear what God has been doing throughout 2011 at STM! Sign up now to help us know how many meals to prepare. Send your reservation to Sojourner Truth Ministries, 501 High Street, Williamsport, PA 17701, by Monday, November 7th.
Ecumenical Lunches Resume - The United Churches Wednesday Noon Ecumenical Lunches will be held each week from 12 to 1 at Pine Street United Methodist Church. You are assured of a delicious lunch, warm ecumenical fellowship and a thoughtful program designed to enrich your life both mentally and spiritually. No reservations are necessary. The price of the lunch will be announced when catering arrangements are finalized. Both laity and clergy are urged to come and enjoy as many of these programs as possible. November 2 Williamsport Music Club, “Academy Award Winning Songs” 9 Dan Doyle, “Faithful Budget: Creating a Circle of Protection for the Poor” 15 to be announced 23 Rev. Kevin Brophy, “Thanksgiving – 2011” 30 Rev. Larry Waltz, “Celebrating Our Journey” Madison Family, Lima, Peru Email -- madisontd@yahoo.com DanTalicia Madison is where they can be found on Facebook. Check them out on Facebook to see what they are up to and to see pictures.
YOUTH NEWS YF meets on Sunday evenings from 6:30 pm - 8 pm. DIAL-A-DEVOTION Have you called yet? The number is 322-5762. It is available 24 hours a day. Thanksgiving Blessing Boxes You may bring non-perishable food items to the church for our Thanksgiving boxes by Sunday, November 20th. If you know of a family who would benefit from a donation of a Thanksgiving box, please let the church office know their name, address and telephone number by Sunday, Thanks from the Seekers!…Amazing how our second year of making apple dumplings was accomplished a few hours quicker. We made and sold 176 dumplings/2 bushels of Cortland apples with very tasty results. In addition to our class members, we had the wonderful experience of Bert Haag, Shirley Blair and Eloise Woodley to coach us thru. Yes it is still work, however many hands always make the work lighter and the opportunity to catch up with one another is so valuable. Thanks for ordering from us!
ANNUAL ST. PAUL-CALVARY CHRISTMAS PARTY TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2011 6:30 p.m. Fellowship Hall Tickets in Advance Turkey & Ham and all the trimmings Adult $12.00 catered by Sam Knipe Child (6-12) $6.00 youth will help serve Ages 5 and under free Entertainment by Martha Kress
Reservation deadline Tuesday, November 29, 2011 Tickets must be purchased in advance From Kay Rhinehart or Ressie Harding P.S. SECRET PAL EXCHANGE FOLLOWING THE PROGRAM Volunteers are needed to help count offering monies on Monday mornings. If you are available to help, please contact Lauretta Baumgartner at 494-1691. ALL SAINTS PHOTO DISPLAY This year for All Saints Sunday, Nov. 6th, we would like to give you a chance to share in a very special "Communion of Saints." Would you help us by bringing in photos of your loved ones who have gone on to glory? We would like to make a display, which will be visible when you come forward for Communion. Please bring them into the office by Oct. 30th. You may take them home after the services on Nov. 6th. We promise to take good care of your precious treasures. Thank You. The Worship Team EVENING OF PRAYER You are invited and encouraged to come to an evening of prayer on Sunday Nov. 13th, from 6:30 to 8:30. This will be a come-and-go-as you-please opportunity to pray for our congregation as a community, our individual Spiritual growth, our growth in attendance, our neighborhood, or whatever God lays on your heart. We will have anointing with oil available for those who want to come and "dump" their "junk." James 5:6 tells us "the prayers of the righteous are effective." If you like the idea, but don't want to come out at night, let us know. We will gladly plan a future event during the day. Please talk to Pastor Robin, or Ed & Tracy Mertes ADVENT WORKSHOP Our Advent Workshop will be held on Sunday, November 27th starting at 2:00 p.m. The children will enjoy a Christmas Party, we will do a craft and prepare the shut-in gift bags, and decorate the trees in the narthex and downstairs. Please come and join in the fun and fellowship of the season. You may donate items for the shut-in gift bags as in past years. Please leave them in the library by the 27th. Listening Session for new districts: Listening sessions will be held in each new district. We encourage you to attend and let us know your ideas for ways to implement this new plan in the best possible way. We continue to pray for God's guidance as we live into a new way of being the Susquehanna Conference. - Bishop Jane Allen Middleton Williamsport District -- Saturday, November 12 at 1:00 p.m. at Blossburg First United Methodist Church.108 N. Williamson Rd., Blossburg, PA 16912. If you would like to go, you may catch a ride with Pastor Robin. NOVEMBER 2011
Advent Study….. Come on “The Journey” with Adam Hamilton as he travels on video from Nazareth to Bethlehem in a fascinating look at the birth of Jesus Christ. This five-session study includes watching portions of the DVD, scripture study and group discussion. “The Journey” will start on Wednesday November 23 at 6:30 p.m. We will meet upstairs in the Youth Room. On MISSION SUNDAY our speaker, Ken Mengel, Conference Secretary of Global Ministries, lead our congregation on a journey remembering our history as a connectional church that was founded by faith. He referenced scriptures: Ephesians 2:19-21a, NRSV “So then you ae…members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. In him the whole structure is joined together.” The church is the people – not the building. The building provides nurture, education and opportunities for fellowship. But the work of the church is outside of these walls. It is like getting an education in school. We attend church, Sunday school and bible studies to get an education. We need to take and use that learning and go into the world. Our connectional structure enables all our work to be multiplied to heal a hurting world, feed the hungry by sharing and teaching the gospel to all. As the church, we are the grass roots, where the work gets done. Get involved -- be a servant, helping others, making disciples. You will truly be amazed at the joy and fulfillment you receive in the service of others for the furthering of God’s kingdom. A Prayer… (From Guerrillas of Grace, Prayers for the Battle by Ted Loder, 1984, Innisfree Press, Inc.) Pry Me off Dead Center O persistent God, deliver me from assuming your mercy is gentle. Pressure me that I may grow more human, not through the lessening of my struggles, but through an expansion of them that will undamn me and unbury my gifts. Deepen my hurt until I learn to share it and myself openly, and my needs honestly. Sharpen my fears until I name them and release the power I have locked in them and they in me Accentuate my confusion until I shed those grandiose expectations that divert me from the small, glad gifts of the now and the here and the me. Expose my shame where it shivers, crouched behind the curtains of propriety, until I can laugh at last through my common frailties and failures, laugh my way toward becoming whole. Deliver me From just going through the motions And wasting everything I have Which is today, a chance, a choice, my creativity, your call. O persistent God, let how much it all matters pry me off dead center so if I am moved inside to tears or sighs or screams or smiles or dreams, they will be real and I will be in touch with who I am and who you are and who my sisters and brothers are. OCTOBER 2011 The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. Psalm 19:7 The Disciple Bible class just studied the Creation story from Genesis 1 and 2. We engaged in a great discussion about the care in which God took to make every living thing. We especially focused on the beginning of the human race, the last of God’s creations to come to life. After exercising amazing creative energy for six days, probably much longer than our days because God’s time is not confined to human convention, God rested (see Genesis 2:2-3). The word for ‘rested’ in Hebrew is shabat. Hence, our word Sabbath. The Lord took a break and enjoyed the fruit of his good labor. In that one thoughtful action, God sanctified the need for every living thing to rest…even oxen and donkeys! In fact, God commanded creation, all of creation, to step back from the work of everyday life and enjoy the blessing of doing nothing. Deuteronomy 5:12 says, “Observe the Sabbath day…” We are to practice resting in addition to remembering that God shabat on the seventh day ( Exodus 20:8). God set aside time for us all to follow in his footsteps and do nothing. How great is our God? When I was growing up, a vast majority of our states still had Blue Laws on the books which made it illegal to work on a Sunday. Gas stations were closed. You couldn’t go out to eat at a restaurant. Even K-Mart shut its doors! As our nation changed and became more and more religiously diverse, Blue Laws disappeared from our way of life. Busyness encroached and before we knew what hit us, Sunday became just another day of the week. God gave us this amazing gift of total rest and we threw it back in his face and said, “No thank you!” How stupid and arrogant of us! Personally, I yearn for Sabbath. Don’t you? Our bodies, minds, and spirits were not created to operate without it. So, what are we going to do about changing the prevailing wind in our society in terms of Sunday rest? I say practice it. If we stop going out to lunch after church then businesses will soon find it isn’t feasible to keep their doors open. They will shut down for the day. Rest wins! Now I know some of you are thinking, “Well, what if those waiters and waitresses need to work to make ends meet? By shutting down, they’ve lost hours.” Exactly! They’ve lost hours. Or have they gained life? I suggest to you, my friends, that rest is more valuable than paying for that pack of cigarettes or that extra Venti Chai Latte at Starbucks. We all need to re-evaluate what is more important to us. Hopefully, it is life and all the enjoyment it brings. Observing Sabbath with you, Pastor Robin
We are happy to announce that Michele Mertes officially begins her duties as Coordinator of Music Ministries/ Chancel Choir Director on October 1st.
October Birthdays/Anniversaries
1 Dave Lingle Jennifer Eck Alexis Haag 2 Erik Suiker 3 Ida Mae Craven 4 Patricia Curry Eli & Jen Keller 5 Randy Blankenship Kenneth Shafer 6 Larry Keller Gary & Cynthia Kimble John H. & Beverly Miller Sallie Schelb 8 Lucy Ann Stroup Ethan Black 9 Andrew Handwerk David & Paula Myers 10 Zachery Black Richard & Alice Trowbridge 11 Patricia Blankenship Justin and Kari Smith 12 Jordan Kinley 13 Alex Canfield Alexander Heiser Dolores Miller 15 Sue Fluke Sophia Madison 16 Donald Hendricks 17 Shirley Blair Roger Fluke Kristin Tate 20 Amber Prince 21 Donna Haag 22 Dalton Nelson Connor Madison 23 Ronnie Bieber Robert & Sharon Heiser Marybelle Mohney Lee Guillaume Lee & Robin Guillaume 24 Thomas Stabley William N. & Karen Bean Michael & Tara Kozer 25 Jim & Terri Girio Travis & Deborah Shrey 26 James Fox 27 Michael & Ronna Hill William & Deborah McCafferty Chris & Karen Miller Doris Smith 29 Amber Eiswerth Michael Hill Waylene Young 30 Brian Carson John German Paul Harris John D. Miller 31 Frances Maneval Fran Harpster Christine & Greg Broscious Our sincere Christian Sympathy is extended to: Madeline Fox and family upon the death of Gordon Fox on August 26, 2011. LaRue Schelb and family upon the death of LaRue’s mother, Marie Schelb, on September 17, 2011.
BAPTISM: Eloise Tomlyn Rhinehart, daughter of Tim and JJ Rhinehart was baptized on September 4, 2011.
Address changes for your directories: Betty Gair Jessie Wolfe 2160 Sheridan Street 48 Fullerwood Drive Williamsport, PA 17701 St. Augustine, FL 32084 (570) 323-3489
Hoss’s Night -- Please consider eating at Hoss's on Monday, October 3. Get a ticket from the Long Sunday School Class and present it when you place your order. Hoss's will then donate 20% of your total check to us. Save your receipt and give it to Dale Stebner for a chance to win a Hoss’s gift card.
BOOK CLUB – Our book is “The End of the Spear” by Steve Saint. Join us on Monday, October 17th at 7 pm in the church parlor.
Fifty and Beyond I will not be doing Fifty and Beyond this year. I thank all of you who helped make this such an enjoyable activity these past three years. Thanks for the fun. Dave L.
Please join us on October 2nd following the 10:45 service for the Anniversary Sunday Fellowship Luncheon. You may bring a covered dish or dessert to share. Baked ham and beverage will be provided.
Bishop Jane Allen Middleton will be our guest speaker on Anniversary Sunday, October 2nd. We will have only one service (at 10:45) that morning.
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN
United Methodist Women will meet at 7pm on Tuesday, October 18th. Barb Steinruck will have devotions and Pastor Robin Baer will present a program on “Reconciliation: The real life journey of Rebecca’s son, Jacob.” Hostesses are JJ Rhinehart and Sue Berry.
Krebs Class Basement Sale – Saturday, October 8. Please drop off donations for the sale by Thursday, October 6th.
COMMUNITY DINNER AND A MOVIE Friday, October 28, 5:30 p.m. Movie will be Scooby Doo2, Monsters Unleashed.
HALLOWEEN PARTY SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2011, 1pm – 2pm Cookies, apple cider, games, prizes, Costume Judging Contest for kids and adults
TRUNK OR TREAT...It's fun, it's new, it's exciting! Our first Trunk or Treat event will be held on Oct. 29th from 2:00 to 4:00, in conjunction with our Halloween party. Here's how it works: show up in the church parking lot with your vehicle and a bunch of candy to pass out to kids of every age. The best part is that you get a chance to decorate your car, or just your trunk. Use your imagination. Maybe you're a Penn State fan; you could do a tailgate theme. Or perhaps a Christmas theme, the more lights the better. You get the idea. Come out and join in the fun. Contact Tracy Mertes to reserve your spot. See you there.
Sojourner Truth Ministries Kitchen needs: Aluminum Foil, Coffee: Regular or Decaf, Dawn Dish Detergent, Coffee Creamer, Margarine, Cascade Dishwasher Soap DINE WITH US: November 6, Sunday. Eat out with your family, friends, or class at Hoss’ while 20% of your tab goes to Sojourner Truth Ministries. Get coupons at STM to give to your waitress.
Krebs Sunday School Class Hoagie Sale – Saturday, October 29. Cost is $4 each for either a turkey or ham hoagie. See any class member to order or fill out an order blank from the bulletin.
Ecumenical Lunches Resume - The United Churches Wednesday Noon Ecumenical Lunches resume this September. They will be held each week from 12 to 1 at Pine Street United Methodist Church. You are assured of a delicious lunch, warm ecumenical fellowship and a thoughtful program designed to enrich your life both mentally and spiritually. No reservations are necessary. The price of the lunch will be announced when catering arrangements are finalized. Both laity and clergy are urged to come and enjoy as many of these programs as possible. October 5 Rev. Dr. John Piper, “Lycoming College Bicentennial Reflections: A Church Related College” 12 Flood Relief for Lycoming County and the Region 19 Rev. Jeffrey LeCrone, “The Better Together Movement” 26 Dr. Jackson Hill, “Elegy of 9/11”
Would you Care to share? We are looking for people to share in the Evangel those special God Moments that you are experiencing. Each Sunday we hear our congregation sharing Praises to God for answered prayers and unexpected blessings. Would you care to share your story in the newsletter to inspire all our congregation's readers? Please email or submit a written note to Debbie DeMarte. All God's people will be blessed.
When you are singing a hymn, do you ever wonder what the story is behind it? With October 30th being Reformation Sunday, I thought it would be interesting to find out how "A Mighty Fortress" came to be.
From "101 Hymn Stories" by Kenneth W. Osbeck, one of the Reformation Movement was the rediscovery of congregational singing. Martin Luther had strong convictions about the use and power of sacred music. "I wish to compose sacred hymns so that the Word of God may dwell among the people also by means of songs." Based on Psalm 46, "A Mighty Fortress" became the battle cry for the people and a great source of inspiration and strength for those who were martyred for their convictions. This hymn has been translated into practically every known language. It is said that there are 60 translations of the hymn in English alone. A personal favorite of mine comes from "The Lutheran Book of Worship", verse 4 in particular...
"God's Word forever shall abide, No thanks to foes, who fear it; For God himself fights by our side, with weapons of the Spirit. Were they to take our house, goods, honor, child, or spouse. Though life be wrenched away, They cannot win the day. The kingdom's ours forever." This verse was especially comforting to me in the aftermath of 9/11. Tracy Mertes
SUNDAY SCHOOL PROMOTIONS
Nursery to Kindergarten Primary to Junior Junior to Youth Ian Hall Sydney Hawk Tim Blankenship Abigail Dockey Madison Hawk Josh Kelly Juliana Rhinehart
Kindergarten to Primary Nastassja Hall Ruby Muse Katrina Rhinehart
YOUTH NEWS YF meets on Sunday evenings from 6:30 pm - 8 pm.
Sunday October 2nd we will have a hay ride at Knipe’s. Be at the church @5:30 pm. RSVP to Aimee Haag, 506-9238, by Saturday October 1st.
The New Youth Choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 6:45 pm - 7:30 pm.
CROP WALK Our community's annual walk to fight hunger, the CROP Walk, is scheduled for Sunday, October 9, 2011 at 1:30 P.M. at the River Walk in Williamsport! This is our first year at this new location. This year will be Williamsport’s 32nd walk. During the past 31 years, $715,815.30 has been collected. See Sandy Stanton if you would like to participate in this year’s Crop Walk.
DIAL-A-DEVOTION Have you called yet? The number is 322-5762. It's available 24 hours a day.
United Campus Ministry Contact Sharon Comini, at 570-419-5376 or ucm@uclc.org. The fall semester has gotten off to a good start. We held our annual kick-off and were able to meet some new students. We look forward to working with our new adviser, Mrs. Deb Buckman, who teaches in the Science Department. Faith Talk meetings continue to be on Monday evenings at 8:00 in room CC 105C, led by local pastors. Students look forward to this time of Bible study and discussion each week. We will be working with Yokefellow Prison Ministry during Fall Break Mission weekend, October 14-15 and are always interested in helping churches and other ministries in the area. We’d like to participate in many service projects throughout the year. Please let us know if your ministry could use some help with an upcoming project. There are many for you and your congregation to get involved with UCM. · Pray: for the students currently involved in UCM and for the students that are searching for the Lord. · Make Study Bags: At the end of each semester, we give study bags made by local congregations. They contain snacks, drinks, and prayers to let students know someone is praying for them throughout their exams. We are always looking for our group to grow. If you have students attending Penn College, let them know about us and what we do. If you would like to find out more about what UCM is all about, we'd be happy to make a presentation to your congregation. I look forward to another exciting year of ministry with the students and congregations. Please continue to keep the students, faculty, and staff at Penn College in your prayers. Thank you for your continued support.
Elizabeth Smart will be at the Community Arts Center: The Junior League of Williamsport will host abduction survivor, ABC News commentator and author Elizabeth Smart at 7 pm Oct. 15 at the Community Arts Center. Smart, 23, will share her experiences in overcoming adversity. She was kidnapped at age 14 and held hostage for nine months and has become an advocate on behalf of children who have experienced violence. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for students and are available at the CAC box office at 570-326-2424 or online at www.caclive.com.
Walk to Prevent Suicide 2011: Our County's third annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk will be on Sunday, Oct 16 from behind the Bush Campus Center at Penn College. Check-in begins at 1 and the three mile walk is at 2 pm. Register online at www.outofthedarkness.org. For details or to volunteer, contact Joe Miller (joesmiller@verizon.net) This is in conjunction with the Am. Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Pork and Sauerkraut Supper to benefit Habitat for Humanity will be held Thursday, Oct. 27 from 4-7 at St. Joseph the Work Parish Fleming Parish Center. Meals will cost $8, children under 10, $4. Take outs will be available. The dinner will be in memory of Sue Hornberger.
Madison Family, Lima, Peru DanTalicia Madison is where we can be found on Facebook Look for an update on the Madison page here on the St Paul-Calvary website.
October 2011
MISSION SUNDAY Ken Mingle, Conference Secretary of Global Ministries, will be our guest for Mission Sunday, October 23, 2011. He will be sharing what the conference can do for us and how our local church can help in times of need.
We will also be sharing our “Seed Money” projects. All monetary proceeds will go towards our Outreach and Mission ministries.
A PORK AND SAUERKRAUT lunch, provided by United Methodist Women, will follow the 10:45 service on Mission Sunday.
“Re-Use-It” The United Methodist Women will put all proceeds from their “Re-Use-It” shop into their mission support. Have you received a gift and thought--what were they thinking? Or maybe you are redecorating and have some useable items to recycle. Here is a way to put them to good use! Bring them in and put them in the Church Library anytime after October 23rd. The Re-Use-It Shop will be open on Sundays November 13 and 20 during the Coffee Fellowship Time. Thank You!!
College and Military “Care Packages” will be sent out again this year. Please bring your items to the church by October 16th and place them in the designated box in the library. Some suggestions to donate are lightweight items such as: candy bars, micro-wave popcorn, sticky notes, hi-liters, pens, pencils, gum, breath mints, McDonald gift cards, etc. Please let the office know the addresses of current college and military people before October 16th. Thank you.
Seekers Sunday School Class will sell Apple Dumplings. . . .
The Seekers class will be making delicious Apple Dumplings on Thursday, October 20. Your order will be available for pick-up on Friday, October 21st from 8:30-11:30 a.m. We are limiting the number of our dumplings to 200. Get your order in early!
SEEKERS Sunday School Class Apple Dumpling Sale
$2.50 each or tray of 4 for $10.00 Available for pick-up from 8:30 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. on Friday, October 21st.
Name ________________________________________________
Phone ___________________
Number of Apple Dumplings ____________
Total amount due _____________ Please fill out and return to any member of Seekers class no later than Sunday, October 16. It is time to make up a list of office holders and team leaders to be voted on at the Oct 30th Annual Conference.
Please pray about your role in the future of God's work here at St. Paul-Calvary and let the Pastor know if you are willing to be active as a team leader of assistant for 2012.
September 2011
Lessons Learned from Little Leaguers
The Little League World Series has come again to Williamsport, Pennsylvania. As I write this article, the fifth day of play is about to commence. I have thoroughly enjoyed the past four days of competition and have learned a great deal from the players, coaches, and volunteers. In fact, I think they could teach many churches how to live out our call as disciples of Jesus Christ. Here are just a few things I noticed that might be helpful to us all. First, I noticed that there is truly no “I” in Team. Every member contributes to the success or failure of a team and that each team is only as good as their weakest player. There are several outstanding athletes in the South Williamsport tournament, but only a few outstanding teams. Teams, by nature, are balanced by the gifts and graces of each member. Some will excel in certain areas and others will stand out in other ways. Rarely does one individual have everything it takes to win on a consistent basis. As a church, each and every member is important to the overall success of the mission and vision of the church. We so often forget this important fact. Pray that God might show you a teammate that needs encouraged or perhaps a tendency in you to think of yourself more highly than you ought. Allow God’s Spirit to lead you in the way of becoming a more perfect teammate. Secondly, I noticed that successful teams communicate on many levels. Players are reminding each other of how many outs there are, catchers and pitchers conference on the mound to make sure they are on the same page with signal calling, reserve players shout encouraging words to their teammates, and of course coaches use hand gestures to guide their players in making the appropriate plays. When communication breaks down, wild pitches, pass balls, dropped fly balls, and botched stolen bases are the result. Disaster strikes and the win is jeopardized. Championship teams communicate on every level. How might the church take a page from their playbook? What role could you play in making sure everyone is on the same page? One of the most infectious and honest things about Little League is passion. Those 11-13 year-olds put their heart and soul into every play. They dive into walls trying to rob someone of a homerun. They slide into bases if it means a chance to be safe or to break up a subsequent out. They give everything they have to get to that ground ball in the hole. Sometimes their passion is rewarded and they win big. Smiles and laughter abound. Other times, they come up empty and lose, and tears show their disappointment and frustration. Yet, regardless of the outcome, playing the game always means something to them. They don’t take the privilege of playing lightly. Pause for a moment and recall the first time you gave your heart to Jesus. Remember all the emotions that swirled within you? Remember how involved you got in the ministries of the church because you just wanted everyone to feel like you were feeling? I want you…God wants you, to get back into the game and play with passion. Because without passion, there’s really no reason to play at all. Toward better communication……… To all St. Paul-Calvary Team Leaders: Please designate someone to take minutes at your meetings, especially noting decisions that have been made. All minutes should be sent to the church office (exception: SPRC) and to each team member within a week of the meeting. Distributing these ahead should cut down on meeting time and September Birthdays/Anniversaries 1 Ted Szuhaj Harold Woodley 3 Debbie Walls 4 David Schanbacher 6 Zoey Knipe 7 Anastacia Kontz 8 Bill & Nancy Bean Sandra McGinnis 9 Marlaina Carson Diane Kozen Adam Tate Curtis Trowbridge Kent Webster Jane Mertes 10 Adam Vasalinda 10 Jim & Deborah Vasalinda 11 Carl Cohick, Sr Sydney Hawk 12 Robert Alonzo Pollock III Elaina Girton 14 Ann Gehrig Terri Girio Bo Ritter Tim & JJ Rhinehart 16 Jim Haag Mary Mull Judy Szybist 18 Scout Smith 19 Jay Maneval Pam Mix 20 Sam Knipe 21 Marqueen Williams 22 Tom & Diane Lilley 23 Barbara Steinruck M/M Kenneth R. Harding 27 Stephanie Baier 28 Jimmy Bennett Kara Schelb Janis Skoog 30 Sharlene Clapper Sharrell Knipe Larry Rhinehart Change of Address for your directory: David Liguori – 4551 Babcock St., Unit 18-345 Our sincere Christian Sympathy is extended to Alice Trowbridge and family on the death of Alice’s father, Reverend Franklin E. Robatin. Congratulations to Kim and Marc LeBlond on the birth of Andrew Bastian on Friday, August 5, 2011. Congratulations to Katie and Tim Steinruck on the birth of Elias John on Wednesday, August 17 in Amherst, New Hampshire BAPTISM: Christian Samuel Smith, son of Justin and Kari Smith was baptized on Sunday, August 28, 2011. Hoss’s Night -- Please consider eating at Hoss's on Monday, September 12. Get a ticket from the Long Sunday School Class and present it when you place your order. Hoss's will then donate 20% of your total check to us. Save your receipt and give it to Dale Stebner for a chance to win a Hoss’s gift card.
Family Promise of Lycoming County - Sue Fluke is our coordinator. 2nd Annual Basket and Quarter Auction to be held October 1st, 2011 at 24 East 3rd St., Williamsport from 6-8:30 p.m. $10 advanced tickets, $12 at the door. This includes h’orderves and drinks. Cost is $3 for 1 paddle or 2 for $5. .25¢ bids for items valued up to $25. Doors open for preview at 6pm. Quarter Auction starts at 6:30pm. Call the Day Center for information and tickets at 567-7103. Our next host week is Sept.18th -25th. All hands on deck. We need your help. Even if you only have an hour to give, we greatly appreciate it. Watch the bulletin for more information about signing up for help or monetary donations. Contact Sue Fluke with questions.
FALL SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDY Sunday school classes will meet for a combined teaching from the desk on September 11, 18, 25 and Oct. 2. Our topic is Extravagant Generosity. More later in the Evangel - so keep reading! Bishop Jane Allen Middleton will be our guest speaker on Anniversary Sunday, October 2nd. We will have only one service (at 10:45) that morning.
Please join us on October 2nd following the 10:45 service for the Anniversary Sunday Fellowship Luncheon.
You may bring a covered dish or dessert to share. Baked ham and beverage will be provided.
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN United Methodist Women organized a trip to Mission Central on Thursday, August 11th. Fourteen members of our church traveled down to Mechanicsburg to work on various projects for the Center. One of the largest projects was labeling 3600 cans of chicken rice soup. Tours of the center were also given. The amount of materials stored and ready to be sent to disaster areas is overwhelming. "Each One Bring One" -- United Methodist Women will meet at 7pm on Tuesday, September 20th. An invitation is extended to all women. Come and bring the important women in your life for a fun time of fellowship. GIFT CARD Report This is a current and total recap of St. Paul-Calvary’s Gift Card activities since the program started back in June 2009. Giant cards and Weis cards are available for purchase in varying dollar amounts. From June 2009 through August 1, 2011, the church has purchased 330 Giant cards totaling $15,725 and 684 Weis cards totaling $29,900. Our remaining gift card inventory as of August 2, 2011 reflects 44 Giant cards and 36 Weis cards now available for purchase. Giant and Weis gift cards sales have been an excellent source of additional revenue which helps to offset our overall program and operating expenses. If and when these remaining 80 gift cards are completely sold, St. Paul-Calvary will have earned a total of $2,380 in offering this program. Please note that the records of all gift card activities are a part of the annual church audit by St. Paul-Calvary’s Audit Team. Once again a reminder that these gift cards are available for purchase on the SECOND Sunday of each month in Krebs Fellowship Hall during the coffee hour prior to the start of our Sunday school. Cards are also available in the church office during normal business hours. If you have any questions, please contact any member of your Finance Team. Thank you, John Dougherty Finance Team Leader Kairos Prison Ministry On Oct. 7 - 10, Ed Mertes will be among a group of men entering Allenwood Federal Prison to share the love of Jesus with the inmates. The group is asking for around the clock prayer support during this time. This is not only for themselves, but also that the hearts of the inmates would be changed. If interested, see Ed to sign up for a time on the chart. This chart will be in view of the inmates during their retreat, so they can see that people are praying for them. A sign of God's love. Outreach Ministry Team The first outreach ministries meeting was held on Aug. 1, 2011. New Coordinator, Ed Mertes, wanted to bring people together to learn just how we are touching the lives of God's people. The meeting was well attended and generated a lot of excitement. Did you know that St. Paul-Calvary has a handful of caring souls who send cards to celebrate our birthdays, anniversaries, etc., to say “hello ", "get well" or "we miss you "? Did you know that our United Methodist Women supports 3 missions and that "The Master’s Crafters” make quilts for baptisms and others in need of a blessing? Some things to look forward to: Family Promise host week is September 18 - 25 A "Trunk or Treat” / Halloween Party on October 29 Friday night's Community Dinners, September 30 and October 28 December 3rd we will be serving lunch at Sojourner Truth Ministries Mark your calendars and watch for more info. (for example: A time of Caroling and hotdogs over an open fire around Christmas time).
Our next meeting will be August 29th @ 6:30 hope to see you there.
COMMUNITY DINNER AND A MOVIE St. Paul-Calvary's Community Dinner Program is very well attended by neighbors and friends. Our next free dinner and a movie will be on Friday, September 30th at 5:30 pm. Volunteers, both youth and adults, will be serving Hot Turkey sandwiches, mashed potatoes, veggies and fruit salad. Join us for dinner and a movie and fellowship with our neighbors. Our Community Dinner outreach is being supported by a new partnership with Bethesda Mission Rural Outreach. Bethesda Mission Rural Outreach began in 1997. Bethesda Mission partners with churches and other agencies in counties surrounding Harrisburg to provide hundreds of bags of food and essential daily household products to hungry and needy individuals and families. Donations are received from individuals, businesses and churches both from this area as well as other locations in the Commonwealth and country. We partnered with their Rural Outreach program, agreeing to serve and provide food at no charge to others. They share warehouse space with Mission Central in Mechanicsburg, PA. Their generous donations are providing the food for us to prepare for our monthly community dinners. God is good! PS - You may ask what is Mission Central? Here's a web link to find out more about Bishop Neil Iron's vision and dream for a centralized world wide mission and disaster response facility. http://www.missioncentral.org/god-moments Sojourner Truth Ministries has to complete a class by the government Food Bank in order to be purchasing food items at 18 cents a pound. They have gone through a change over and this is now their new requirement. We can purchase items paying from our budget, but we have received only around $25,000 this year in donations when we need a total of $100,000 yearly to be operational. We continue to keep our doors open to reach the great needs of those coming for help for life's basic provisions and to know Christ's loving care. Thank You for sharing your blessings with those less fortunate at such a difficult time. We appreciate your help greatly. Can you supply us with cash to purchase items or the items themselves? SING, SING, SING! Do you have a song in your heart and a desire to sing it with joy? Chancel Choir is the place to be. Join us on Wednesdays, 7:30 - 8:30 pm. in the Choir Room. September 7th is the first one. Lights, CAMERA, Action - - - - that could be you in the middle of things! Now that the camera is up and running again, we are looking for volunteers to videotape the sermon each week. All you need to do is set the camera up (very easy), turn it on (again, easy) and press REC (for record). When the service is done, you turn it off and put it away. That's it. We need about 6 individuals who are willing to take a turn at being on God's camera crew. Please see Dick DeMarte, call him (419-5635), email him (djdickmartin@yahoo.com) or leave a message in the church office. Krebs Sunday School Class Hoagie Sale – Saturday, September 17. Cost is $4 each for either a turkey or ham hoagie. See any class member to order or fill out an order blank from the bulletin. Ecumenical Lunches Resume - The United Churches Wednesday Noon Ecumenical Lunches resume this September. They will be held each week from 12 to 1 at Pine Street United Methodist Church. You are assured of a delicious lunch, warm ecumenical fellowship and a thoughtful program designed to enrich your life both mentally and spiritually. No reservations are necessary. The price of the lunch will be announced when catering arrangements are finalized. Both laity and clergy are urged to come and enjoy as many of these programs as possible. September 14 - Mrs. Carol Waltz and Mrs. Candy Watkins, Carol is the Organist, Messiah Lutheran Church and Candy is a retired Music Teacher, “Autumn Inspiration” September 21 - Ms. Pamela Wollet, MSW, LSW, Children's Bereavement Coordinator, Susquehanna Health, “Heartworks” September 28 - To Be Announced United Campus Ministry Students are back and we are looking forward to an exciting semester! Monday evening Faith talks have begun, and I will have a table set up outside the new freshman eatery (The Capital Eatery) every Wednesday from 11 - 2:30 to meet with students. Penn College Students are encouraged to connect with us. We look forward to welcoming returning students as well as those new to the campus. This year we also welcome a new advisor, Professor Deb Buckman. She teaches in the science department and is a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. Some of the special events this fall include this week’s Fall Fiesta, an getting to know you evening of pizza and bowling, and a fall Mission Weekend where we will work at Yokefellow and then go on a hay ride at St. Michael’s. We could use some baked goods for the Bake Sale which is Wednesday, September 28. Please let me know if you can help. You can contact me, Sharon Comini, at 570-419-5376 or ucm@uclc.org. 9/11 Memorial Events Sunday, September 11 is the tenth year anniversary of that fateful Tuesday when terrorists attacked the nation. Several events will be held in our community. • The 9-11 Memorial Ride will continue to roll. PASTORS, Fr, John Manno invites you to gather with him at the Clinton Township Fire Hall in Montgomery at 3:00 p.m. and take part in The Blessing of the Bikes. The afternoon and evening will be filled with many fun activities for families and individuals throughout our region. • An Interfaith Service will be held at the Community Arts Center in Williamsport at 7:00 p.m. and people from all congregations are invited. This service will include reflections from people who worked at Ground Zero during the recovery process, as well inspiring music. In order to survive our country came together and worked together, not just at the sites of the terrorism, but also right here in Williamsport. We continue to work together, to pray together, to stand together united under God in the task of making this a better place to live. BEITER’S HOME CENTER 7th annual charity drive and sale Anyone making a purchase at Beiter’s Home Center between Wednesday, September 14th and Monday, September 19th can designate that 5% of their purchase price be contributed to St. Paul-Calvary UMC. So, if you are planning any major purchases, just take the church’s contact information with you when you shop.
CROP WALK Our community's annual walk to fight hunger, the CROP Walk, is scheduled for Sunday, October 9, 2011 at 1:30 P.M. at the River Walk in Williamsport! This is our first year at this new location. This year will be our 32nd walk. During the past 31 years we have collected $715,815.30. See Sandy Stanton if you would like to participate in this year’s Crop Walk. You are invited to the September Worship Through Prayer services on Thursday, September 8 at 11AM at Phelps Chapel with lunch immediately following the service and Sunday, September 25 at 4pm at Dunnstown UMC with a light supper immediately following the service. THANK YOU! Dear St. Paul-Calvary, I just want to say thank you so much for the backpack. I love it so much. Also thanks for the school stuff for me to use in school. I will use it. You are very kind. Please keep me in your prayers, Breanna. Dear St. Paul-Calvary, Thank you for the backpack. You are so nice. The stuff in the backpack will really help me in school. Your friend, Olivia (Thank you to all who contributed towards the school supplies!) WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY RETURNS on September 7th from 6:30-7:30 p.m.! We will be using the Liquid video series entitled “The Ten” to aid our discussion of the Ten Commandments. Those of you who have attended the Lenten services are very familiar with the episode-like format and real life application of biblical teachings. Everyone is welcome to come and grow together! See you upstairs in the youth room Wednesday, September 7th at 6:30 p.m.!! FALL SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDY Sunday school classes will meet in the adult classroom for a combined teaching from the desk on September 11, 18, 25 and Oct. 2. Our topic is Extravagant Generosity. This is a video-based lesson series with built in time for discussion within each class. The children and youth will also be studying the same topic. We believe the Holy Spirit is leading this discussion and we need to be open to the Spirit. Our anniversary celebration will be Oct. 2, our Consecration Sunday will be October 9 and Mission Sunday will follow October 16. Come and be a very real part of God's plan for St. Paul-Calvary UMC! Acts 9:31b Teacher Appreciation Thank you to JJ Rhinehart for the wonderful breakfast she prepared for Teacher Appreciation Sunday. Thank you to all the Sunday School teachers for your willingness to share your talents and time for God. Would you Care to share? We are looking for people to share in the Evangel those special God Moments that you are experiencing. Each Sunday we hear our congregation sharing Praises to God for answered prayers and unexpected blessings. Would you care to share your story in the newsletter to inspire all our congregation's readers? Please email or submit a written note to Debbie DeMarte. All God's people will be blessed. Our new Welcome Team Program began on June 19, 2011. We have been blessed with many visitors during the summer months and have welcomed each one personally to get to know them better. Here's how it works: our lay reader requests 1st time visitors to complete a guest pew card and asks if they would please meet with a Welcome team member for a few minutes following the Worship service. Welcome Team members wear a nametag for guests to learn their name also. We share a gift as our token of thanks for their visit and invite them to worship and join in our fellowship again. The Welcome Team link guests with their interests in participating in Sunday School, prayer and bible studies, youth fellowship and other small groups. St. Paul-Calvary's caring, "family-friendly" hospitality is shared with everyone who worships in God's house, invite your family and friends to Worship with you. If you have questions regarding our Welcome Team Program, please call Donna Haag 570-326-0892. Madison Family Lima, Peru August 2011 Hello to all our family and friends from the Madison family in Lima Peru. We have just finished the 2nd Quarter of the school year. (half way done already) We have been keeping very busy. I have gotten into the routine of teaching and coaching basketball and involved in an outreach through the church where the school is to a group of young men through playing soccer every Thursday night. There is a devotion time after we play and I have led the devotion a few times already. I have also made friends with the guard at our local grocery store and have started sharing the gospel with him through my limited Spanish and his limited English and with some Spanish gospel tracks. In June, I had the amazing experience of witnessing to two Mormon Missionaries in front of the grocery store one night and it drew a small crowd. I heard someone translating the conversation I was having with them and it led to another conversation between a fellow Christian and a Catholic who were talking about who you need to worship if it was Jesus or Mary. My guard friend stepped out to make sure I was alright and after the Mormon Missionaries left he and some others there thanked me. It was a great experience and one I will never forget. Talicia has been staying busying taking care of all of us and making some good friends. During the month of June she helped a sister of one of the teachers who had come to visit and lead some special classes teaching some of the mothers of students English. It made for some long days for her, but it was rewarding and it also allowed her to get to know some of the other mothers more too. Conner is still getting use to living in Peru and doing great. He loves playing soccer every day and is making some good friends. He is working very hard at learning Spanish and loves using the new words and phrases he has learned. He had lots of fun when we were able to visit some sand dunes south of Lima as he learned to Sand Surf. We all had fun and none of us fell. Sophia loves going to school and is enjoying learning Spanish too. She loved the most when we went to the sand dunes and she got to go horseback riding. She is adjusting to living in Peru really well too. She always wants to go to the local park to play and ride her bike. We again want to thank everyone who is supporting us in prayer. We have felt those prayers and take great comfort in them. There are some days that I know that we are getting by only because of those prayers. Here are things that you can continue to pray for:
Here are some praises too:
We are also very grateful for everyone and their financial support. We could not do this without your help which has been so meaningful to us. We pray that you receive blessings from God as you have been a blessing to us in spreading His Word in Lima, Peru. It is so awesome to see God working here in the heart of the people of Peru. We miss you all and pray that all is going well with you too. In His Service Dan, Talicia, Conner and Sophia Madison DanTalicia Madison is where we can be found on Facebook
SEPTEMBER 2011
JULY-AUGUST 2011
Let’s Get Real Once in a while, I run across a helpful book that contains wisdom for our goal toward being more outward-focused church. One such book is Shaped By God’s Heart: The Passion and Practices of Missional Churches (2004) by Milfred Minatrea. In this easy-to-read work, Minatrea unveils 9 practices of missional churches and their importance in Kingdom building. The second practice really struck a chord in my heart. It is “Be real, not real religious.” In this chapter, Minatrea looks closely at the practice of Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners. He shares that Jesus’ way of being authentically divine, yet non-threateningly accessible, made it possible for those with irreligious behaviors to get close to him. Jesus didn’t pretend to be something that he wasn’t, nor did he sacrifice his holiness for the sake of other’s comfortability. He simply lived out his holiness in the midst of their unholiness. Jesus real-ness became a point of attraction to those who witnessed holiness without judgment. Minatrea sees that missional churches have the same authenticity: in their faith, how they relate to one another, and how they act in the world. He asserts that this real-ness breeds unity within the Body, and therefore becomes attractive to those who live in a world that is so fractured. The author lifts up the example of a church whose small groups encourage one another to grow toward maturity and service as disciples. In those small groups, leaders stress group interaction in 7 areas (pgs. 47-48). I share these with you in hopes that our church might work harder in being real with each other, and by extension being more real in our faith and with those around us. -----Pastor Robin 1. Love one another (John 13:34-35; 15:12, 17; 1 Thessalonians 3:12, 4:9; Hebrews 10:24; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 3:11, 23; 1 John 4:7, 11-12) 2. Yield to others, serving their interests: be devoted (Romans 12:10); humility (1 Peter 5:5); submit (Hebrews 13:13, Ephesians 5:21, 1 Peter 5:5); serve (Galatians 5:13, Hebrews 10:24) 3. Spend time with one another: greet (Romans 16:16, 1 Corinthians 16:20, 2 Corinthians 13:12, 1 Peter 5:14); hospitality (1 Peter 4:9); have fellowship (1 John 1:7) 4. Allow others to be imperfect—don’t become irritated with them: be patient (Ephesians 4:2, Colossians 3:13); accept (Romans 15:7); bear with (Galatians 6:2, Colossians 3:13); be at peace (Mark 9:50); wait for (1 Corinthians 11:33); forgive (Ephesians 4:32) 5. Build one another up with words—be helpful to one another: build up (Romans 14:19, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Hebrews 3:13); speak truth (Ephesians 4:25, Colossians 3:9); admonish (Romans 15:14, Colossians 3:16, Hebrews 10:24-25); confess (James 5:16); pray (James 5:16) 6. Have a gentle heart toward others in difficulty: care for (1 Corinthians 12:25); comfort (1 Thessalonians 4:18); be kind (Ephesians 4:32); have compassion (1 Peter 3:8) JULY Birthdays/Anniversaries 1 Alice Trowbridge 2 Jordan Ritter 3 Charlene Carson Vera Hughes 4 Megan Lewis Gregory & Nadia Hall 5 Codi Bieber Shelley Szuhaj Ryan DeWitt Ms. Kelly T. Amos 6 Jeffrey Haag 7 Nancy Rupert Katie Miller 8 Anne Bennett Marie Martin Gordon & Madeline Fox 9 Jeannine Cohick Ryan Vincent 10 Sarah Wirth Charles & Ida Mae Craven James & Donna Haag 11 Twila Black Tim Rhinehart John & Nancy Wirth 12 Amanda Harding 14 Donald Free Robert & Marqueen Williams 15 Jack Clapper Julia Muse Floyd Lundy Merle & June Hively 17 Sue Berry Nancy Wirth Gene Border 18 Carl & Jeannine Cohick 19 Wayne Harris Ivan Valentine Ken & Doris Shuman 20 Robert & Linda Long 21 Brian Dougherty Gary & Charlene Carson David & Karen Eiswerth 21 Robin Guillaume 22 Matthew Wirth 24 Coby Knipe 25 Michaela Free 26 Alexander Boocock Joy Deuel Ed Mertes 27 Lucille Lundy 28 William N. Bean 29 Jean Myers Merle Hively, Sr 30 Melissa Bass Jessica Bennett Betty Mills 31 Thomas Lilley Debra Bachman Garyn Tate Colton Lord Wesley Steinruck AUGUST Birthdays/Anniversaries 1 Alexis Waltz June Flook Harold & Eloise Woodley 2 Darla Handwerk 5 Thomas & Judy Szybist David Eck 6 Ken & Joy Kinley Keana James 7 Scott Bean Eric Tate Julie Tomasovich James & Darla Handwerk 8 Gabriel Heiser 9 Jack & Carole German 9 Jake Michael Price 10 Jessie Wolfe 11 Nastassja Hall Christine & Jason Francis Cortney & Jimmy Hill 12 Byron Campbell Talicia Madison 13 Jeanne Cohick 15 Darlene Lewis 16 Logan Tate Kent & Debra Young 18 Susan Shively Timmy Schelb 21 Darrell Canfield, Sr 22 Amanda Kozen Dan Madison 23 Karen Bean Amber Tate Larry & Kay Rhinehart Deanna Dockey 24 Elizabeth Shively 25 Jim & Darlene Lewis 26 Timothy & Rosetta Willits 28 Kenneth Fritz 29 William J. Bean Naomi Lockcuff
Missy and Eric Wolfe on the birth of Addisyn Grace Wolfe on June 10, 2011. JJ and Tim Rhinehart on the birth of Eloise Tomlyn Rhinehart on June 24, 2011. In Sympathy - Barbara H. Brion died, Saturday, June 25, 2011 at the Williamsport Home. Hoss’s Night -- Please consider eating at Hoss's on Tuesday, July 5 and Monday, August 1. Get a ticket from the Long Sunday School Class and present it when you place your order. Hoss's will then donate 20% of your total check to us. Save your receipt and give it to Dale Stebner for a chance to win a Hoss’s gift card.
BOOK CLUB -- Our next book is “Winter Garden” by Kristin Hannah. Join us on Monday, July 18th at 7:00 pm in the Parlor. Family Promise of Lycoming County - Sue Fluke is our new coordinator. See her or sign-up in the parlor if you can help. We will host Family Promise again the week of July 17th. GOLF TOURNAMENT
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 White Deer Golf Course $75 per person Get a foursome and join the fun to benefit the United Churches! Contact Sharon Heiser (326-3580) for registration forms. Change of Address: Jordan M. Ritter, 310 South Westland Avenue, #4, Tampa, FL 33606 Annual Conference: First let me thank you for letting me be your lay delegate to annual conference. I had a great time. What a great experience it was for the first time I went. I learned a lot. I got to hang out with the youth while I was down there. I had a great time with the youth. I learned a lot from them too. I look forward to getting involved in the Young Peoples Ministry Council for the Conference. I also look forward to the future of our church. Thanks Again. Jane Mertes Check out our WEBSITE – www.stpaulcalvaryumc.org
We have been working hard on putting the sermon and various events on the web site and have succeeded with our efforts. Please visit the web page and also let your friends and family know about the availability of watching and listening to Pastor Robin's weekly sermon. After you connect to the web page, just click on the 'sermon' topic on the list, and you will be directed to the correct site. Also available is the monthly evangel and the weekly bulletin, as well as news and happenings around St. Paul-Calvary. Please send any and all news to me - either at my email address, on paper, or by a phone call. Thanks, Richard DeMarte Communications Coordinator djdickmartin@yahoo.com 570-419-5635 YOUTH FELLOWSHIP ACTIVITY – The Youth will leave the church at 4pm on Friday, July 8th for KNOEBELS and return to the church approximately 11:30pm. The cost is $9 per person (no coasters, haunted house or skyride included) Pizza, chips and soda will be provided when we arrive at Knoebels. If you plan on anything extra like coasters, games, other food, etc., please remember extra money. Everyone needs to RSVP by Thursday, July 7th to make sure we have a seat for everyone. Questions? Call, text or e-mail Aimee Haag – 506-9238 or ajhaag5@gmail.com. August 21st we will honor our Sunday School TEACHERS! There will be an Appreciation Breakfast in Fellowship Hall for the Sunday School teachers at 8:15 on Sunday, August 21st. There will be only one service on that day, 10:45 only. Pastor will have the “Blessing of the Backpacks” and prayer for students and teachers during the service. Bring your backpacks, laptops, briefcases etc. to be blessed for the beginning of the new school year. We will be collecting school supplies to distribute for that day also. If you would like to donate school supplies, you may leave them in the church office. Thank you. Mother of the Year -- Our Mother of the Year was Bea Cohick, with Mary Heverly, Donna Haag, JJ Rhinehart and Kathy Dincher as honorees. The Mother of the Year got a nice planter of flowers, with the Honorees getting a decorative bird knickknack. Father of the Year – Our Father of the Year was Dave Kelly, with Carl Cohick, Dick Free, and Sharry Knipe as Honorees. The Father of the Year got a $15 gift certificate from Hoss’s, and the honorees got nice pens from Christian Light bookstore. THE STORY OF SOJOURNER TRUTH Our MISSION CENTRAL WORK TRIP will be Thursday, August 11th. We will leave from the church at 7:30am. Bring a bag lunch. We will be working from 9:30 or 10:00am until 4:00pm and will stop for supper on the way home. Please let the office or Kay Rhinehart know if you can go. Richie Harding will present a power point presentation on “Life in Saudi Arabia” during the Sunday School hour on August 28 (9:30-10:30am). If you missed his program at United Methodist Women, you don’t want to miss Sunday school on August 28th! Leadership Team Meeting Minutes Monday, June 13, 2011 – 7pm. Present: Dave Lingle, Sally Knipe, Jane Mertes, Dee McGee, Pastor Robin Baer, Jim Haag, Tim Rhinehart and Yvonne Dockey. Also attending: John Dougherty, Donna Haag and Tracy Mertes.
Next meeting: Monday, August 8, 2011, 7pm I. Opening
Dave Lingle began the meeting with a discussion about the character of Alexander Hamilton and led us with opening prayer. II. Discussion Topics
III. Old Business
1. Combined meeting of SPRC/Trustees/Leadership teams was held to discuss the computer room. The history of the computer room idea was reviewed. Follow-up was completed regarding software and training requirements. Church volunteers will lead the training. 2. Sue Fluke has volunteered to be the Coordinator for Family Promise. It was also noted that cleanup had been completed from the last hosting event. 3. Donna Haag outlined the details of the new “Welcome Team”. Pew cards will replace the red attendance books, welcome visitor’s time will be in the parlor after each service, visitor’s will receive a gift bag, a follow-up card, welcome letter from the Pastor and a follow-up visit within three weeks. This will begin Sunday, June 19th. IV. New Business
V. Closing Jim Haag led us in a closing prayer. The meeting concluded at 9:00pm. Minutes recorded by: Yvonne Dockey Secretary Leadership Team Sunday School News: Summer 2011 Sunday School Offerings Beginning July 10th The children will be studying the Parables of Jesus. They will meet on second floor in the Primary Room. Adult Sunday School Lessons 1. Biblical Foods Want to learn more about the different foods in the Bible? If so, come to this class and learn and possibly enjoy some new ideas on how to prepare Biblical foods. Contact Person: Barbara Steinruck (322-2594) 2. I Dared to Call Him Father This is a miraculous story of a Muslim Woman’s encounter with God. A close up view of being a Christian woman in Pakistan. Contact Person: Kay Rhinehart (546-7294) 3. Meeting the Spirit This study of the Holy Spirit was previously done by the Faith Builder’s Class, and is recommended for every age. Contact Person: Nancy Bean (494-1081) 4. International Cokesbury Sunday School Lessons We can never go wrong in offering the International Lesson plan. Each lesson is a unit in itself, or get the whole feeling of the entire series. Contact Person: Lois Lilley (323-2117) Come join us whether this is your home church or not. We welcome you to try it and come when you can. We will continue to have opening activities at 9:30; classes will start at 9:45. There will be no closing activities for the summer. Some adult classes may still be meeting for their regular classes. Introducing DISCIPLE Bible Study!!!
When? Starting in September 2011 What time? Tentatively Sundays at 3pm Where? St. Paul-Calvary UMC Parlor Why? See below… "If you make my word your home, you will indeed be my disciples.” ~John 8:31 The New Jerusalem Bible Are you hungering for the Word of God? DISCIPLE Bible Study can help transform you into a biblically nourished Christian, who is equipped to nurture and encourage other people to live as disciples of Christ. The DISCIPLE Bible Study program is designed to develop strong local churches through the in-depth study of Scripture. Through DISCIPLE, people are strengthened in their faith and guided into service and ministry. Strong, biblically nourished leadership will help our church grow in vitality and Christian discipleship. The group members’ commitment will include: · Studying about thirty minutes daily in preparation for the weekly study session.
Anyone interested in joining the DISCIPLE Bible Study in September, please sign up now in the church office. Materials need to be purchased soon. Hope to see you there! Pastor Robin Finance Team Report Our long-awaited summer period has finally arrived! After a very wet spring it is now time to enjoy the warmth and joy of vacation time with many varied activities which bring so much pleasure to all of us. I want to inform you that earlier this month I looked at our financial picture for the five month period ending May 2011 and compared those figures with the same period ending May 2010. Given this decline in our giving, I need to tell you that for the rest of this year, we have a big challenge ahead in funding our planned programs for the remainder seven months of 2011. Our regular church envelope giving year-to-date is down $5,300 from last year at this time; our loose and Sunday School offerings are down by nearly $1,300 from last year at this time. I’m sure the decline in numbers is a true and honest reflection of the day-to-day personal financial needs facing each member of our church family. This is certainly understandable. However, we need to keep in mind that the additional, monthly income fluctuates periodically throughout the year and is difficult to count on being there each month to help offset our operating expenses. As I review our operating expenses for the five-month period ending May 2011, our total property management expenses are $6,700 less than last year’s numbers at this same time period. You may recall that the bulk of the expenses last year were in the area of much needed church repairs and maintenance. All other expense line items in our 2011 Spending Plan as of May 2011 appear to be consistent with those reported by our church treasurer in 2010. So, where does this leave us? Please enjoy the summer – but during this period please keep in mind that our summer program expenses continue to go on as do our utilities and payroll needs. If you are unable to personally attend church services and other activities during these summer months, please remember to mail in your offerings. This will enable St. Paul-Calvary to continue paying its bills and further our outreach efforts to the community around us. Thanks to each of you. A reminder to all Finance Team members: Our meetings for July and August have been suspended unless there is a financial matter to come before us. Our next regularly scheduled meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 6, 2011. Any church member desiring to attend our meetings is most welcomed to sit in and observe our work sessions. We routinely met in the church office on the first Monday of each month. Thank you. John F. Dougherty Finance Team Leader Weis and Giant Gift Cards… A reminder for everyone: the Weis and Giant Gift Cards are available for purchase on the second Sunday of the month in Krebs Fellowship Hall during the coffee hour. Gift cards may also be purchased from Debbie in the church office during normal office hours. A full report of our Gift Card activity since Anne Bennett started the program back in June 2009 will appear in the September issue of the Evangel. "INSIDE OUT AND UPSIDE DOWN ON MAIN STREET"
Ages 5 years through 6th grade Sunday-Thursday, July 24-28, 2011 5:30 pm for supper for kids with program from 6:00-8:00 pm each evening
Bible Lessons Music Food Games fun, fun, fun……… St. Paul-Calvary United Methodist Church 1427 Memorial Avenue Williamsport, PA 17701 "INSIDE OUT AND UPSIDE DOWN ON MAIN STREET" Vacation Bible School 2011 Dates: Sunday-Thursday, July 24-28, 2011 Fill out attached registration form and return to: Time: 5:30 Supper---6:00-8:00pm Learning & Activities Tim Rhinehart or the Church Office Ages: 5 years through 6th grade Questions? Phone 322-5054 Vacation Bible School Registration (please print) Child’s Name_________________________________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Name______________________________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ e-mail address________________________________________________________________________________ Phone numbers Home_____________________Cell_______________________Work_____________________ Age information Date of Birth______________________________________________________Age_______________________ Last school grade completed____________________________________________________________________ Home church________________________________________________________________________________ Allergies/Medical Information/Other (use back if necessary) __________________________________________________________________________________________ Emergency Contacts Name__________________________________________________Phone______________________________ Name__________________________________________________Phone______________________________ Dismissal Information Name(s) of person(s) who may pick up this child from VBS: __________________________________________________________________________________________ Other Information (Church Use Only) Group ________________________________ Are parents helping with VBS? ____________ If yes, where? __________________________ St. Paul-Calvary United Methodist Church 1427 Memorial Avenue Williamsport, PA 17701 322-5054   EVANGEL - JUNE 2011
In the Loop As some of you know, I currently hold the position of Worship Co-chair for Annual Conference. When approached by the Bishop to do this monumental task, I asked her what was involved in doing this important job. She, of course, didn’t really know but assured me that I would be great at it. Famous last words. I then hesitantly agreed because that’s what you do when the Bishop asks you to do anything. What I soon discovered was the depth of my involvement in casting decisions that would shape Annual Conference in general. Making those crucial choices about the direction of Annual Conference affected the worship team and required a tremendous amount of communication on my part. As a result, I participated in and led numerous meetings. I made too many phone calls to count, and my email inbox has seen almost 300 messages since planning began. And here it is, Annual Conference is less than 3 weeks away and there is still much more communicating to do. Why am I sharing this with you? Because I’ve learned a valuable truth in the process. Communication is key to the successful launch of any great endeavor. Without communication, a mission cannot reach its fullest potential. I would also argue that lack of communication will lead to the eventual downfall of the mission. It has been a year and a half since our Matthew 28 Consultation. Where has the time gone? During that time, we have made inroads into some of the prescriptions suggested by the Consultation leaders, and we have failed to begin others. One of our weaknesses discovered by the Consultation Team is communication. St. Paul-Calvary just simply does not do a good job talking with one another. This must change because our vision and mission demand a higher level of communication if we are to succeed in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. So, what can we do to increase the amount of communication within our church? Here are some of my suggestions: 1. Attend Leadership Team meetings. Since the changeover from Administrative Council to Leadership Team, the attendance has dropped off dramatically. There have been only two non-Leadership Team members who consistently attend these meetings. Without every voice, the Team’s decisions can only be based on what we know…and we only know part of the whole story. 2. Use the Evangel and the website as vehicles for communication. We are blessed to have these two mediums, but they are woefully underutilized. If your Team or group is dreaming or planning anything, let the Body know so that we know how to help you accomplish your goals. 3. Voice complaints/suggestions concerning the Pastor or Staff to members of the Staff Parish Relations Team. Their names are listed in the back of the Church Directory. Please don’t vent your frustrations to others because the time your concerns finally get to the folks who need to know, it might be too late to make the necessary changes. 4. Designate someone from your Team or group to attend another Team’s meetings, especially if you think that Team may have something that would affect your ministry. Don’t wait to hear things second or third hand. Be proactive! Keep yourself in the loop! In the Loop with you, Pastor Robin Toward better communication……… To all St. Paul-Calvary Team Leaders: Please designate someone to take minutes at your meetings, especially noting decisions that have been made. All minutes should be sent to the church office (exception: SPRC) and to each team member within a week of the meeting. Distributing these ahead should cut down on meeting time and allow for better discussion. May Evangel
Are You Inviting Anyone to the Party? There’s been a lot of talk lately among my Facebook friends about our upcoming 30th high school reunion. Most of the inquiries focus on date, location, and leadership. One of my former classmates asked me if I was going this year. She had no idea of the Pandora’s Box she opened when she asked that question. OK, time to confess. I’m a wee bit bitter. You see, the last time I went to my high school reunion was the fifth year. I had received the invitation and promptly mailed it back with my RSVP that I would be attending. I went and had a reasonably good time seeing my not too old friends. Little did I know that would be the last invitation I would ever receive. Somehow, for the last four reunions, my name and address have not reached the person(s) in charge of issuing the invitations. There have been no calls to my parents, asking for my new address. No one, with the exception of me and my friend Jeff, has made any attempt to get the correct information to those involved. So, I miss out on a chance to reconnect with old friends and make some new ones. And my former classmates miss out on my sparkling personality. Ha! Just threw that in to see if you are paying attention. The point is this, my friends; it doesn’t benefit anyone if folks are left off the guest list. As Easter people, we are invited by the Risen Christ to attend the celebration of his glorious triumph over sin and death every Sunday morning in worship. We are blessed to gather and praise the One who saves us. Through prayer, song, sharing, and preaching, we are re-membered and re-formed as a Resurrection family. We also have the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new ones in Christ Jesus. What a blast…what a privilege! Which one of your family members, friends, or neighbors has not received a recent invitation to the Resurrection Party at St. Paul-Calvary UMC? Go through your address books. Update your information. Pray, pray, pray that God would lead you to the door of someone just waiting to be asked to come to worship. For it is only when the party is full to overflowing that Christ’s family is truly resurrected itself. In Celebration of the Risen Christ, Pastor Robin The Power of the Tongue “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.” James 3:9-10
I think the mouth is one of the most powerful parts of the human body. Why, you might ask? Because it has the greatest potential to both heal and harm.
As a victim of ridicule due to my struggle with obesity, I have weathered the power of the tongue all my life. For years, my esteem and spirit have been under attack by the vicious words others have spoken both in front of my face and behind my back. Regardless of where those words were uttered, it always hurt to the core. Living under the lash of the powerful tongue, I have a clearer understanding and deeper empathy with those abused in this manner.
Enduring verbal abuse and gossip has also helped me recognize the temptation I often face to curse those who don’t agree with my point of view or agenda. This doesn’t mean that I have been 100% successful in fighting these temptations. I often fail…miserably. Yet in my failings, I soon repent and ask for God’s forgiveness for my wicked and impulsive tongue. I pray diligently for a clean heart and the strength of character to do better next time when faced with such a challenge.
I know the changes brought about by the Matthew 28 program have yet again polarized this church community. Some of you are embracing the opportunity for change and others are hoping “this too shall pass” so that we can get back to doing things they way we’ve always done it. The temptation to verbally bash those not in agreement with us will be great. I urge you not to do so. Be reminded from the Epistle of James that when we speak ill a brother or sister, we speak ill against the One who created them, namely God. I pray that the Lord would hold all our powerful tongues in check before we harm another one of the Redeemed.
Pray with me…Father, sometimes my anger and disappointment seeks release through the medium of my tongue and I succumb to the temptation to lash out at those whom I feel responsible for my discomfort. Forgive me, O Lord, for my lack of Christ-like self control. Strengthen my resolve to speak truth in a spirit of love and grace, and keep me ever mindful that all people are your work of art. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
A Fellow Sinner Saved By Grace,
Matthew 28 Update from Pastor Robin Two important areas will be addressed. Ministry Team Leaders Needed
Pastor’s Corner In my last Evangel article, I promised to share information from a couple of the books I’ve been reading throughout the Matthew 28 process. There is one resource I thought would be particularly good for us as we re-examine our Committee work at St. Paul-Calvary UMC. The book is entitled, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni[1]. In his book, Lencioni creates a fictional company that is in deep creative and financial trouble. He tells the tale of how a gifted leader turns the company around by implementing critical components of successful team building. Although this book was not specifically written for churches desiring to be more vital and vibrant within their communities, I believe it can help us make our ministry teams stronger and more effective if we adhere to these basic team concepts. The first concept is trust. It is critical that all team members trust one another. Within the trusting relationship, team members must be vulnerable and open with their mistakes and weaknesses. Ego must be left at the door. (See how many times Jesus shot down the ego of his disciples.) If trust is not a foundational principle then there is no hope of team success. The second concept is conflict. Unfiltered conflict is a good and healthy thing within teams. It spawns creativity and debate. This is the hardest thing for church folk because we tend to want to be ‘nice’ to everyone and not rock the boat. Yet, Jesus was most assuredly a boat rocker! He often instigated conflict to get the people to accept the new and wondrous knowledge of his identity and mission (See the gospels and Jesus’ interactions with the Pharisees). As these concepts build on each other, “teams that lack trust are incapable of engaging in unfiltered and passionate debate of ideas. Instead they resort to veiled discussions and guarded comments.” (pg. 188) The third concept is commitment. Teams often struggle with the problem of commitment within their membership. Lencioni blames this on the fact that the members have not bought into the decisions made during the meetings. Why? Because teams that lack trust and conflict, have not openly and honestly discussed any real issues. Team members may feign agreement during meetings, but not really commit to the decisions because their true voice has never been heard. (See how Jesus combated commitment issues with the disciples on the way to The fourth concept is accountability. Successful teams hold each other accountable for their role in decision making and implementation. Again, since trust, conflict, and commitment are already in place, accountability is not seen as chastisement. It is rather seen as a focusing tool to help the team stay on the road toward their mission. (How many times did Jesus hold the disciples accountable for their actions as it related to his ministry? Consider the failure to feed the multitudes, failure to cast out unclean spirits, and Peter’s numerous attempts at being a true disciple, etc.) The fifth and final concept is attention to results. The mission of the group always takes precedence over the agenda and needs of its individual members. This harkens back to the words of the Apostle Paul from 1 Corinthians 3:8, “The one who plants and the one who waters have a common purpose.” In other words, individual accomplishment is only measured in proportion to group goals achieved. [1] Lencioni, Patrick. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team.
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