THE GOOD NEWS from the Stratford United Methodist Church

Transcription

1 THE GOOD NEWS from the Stratford United Methodist Church 2600 MAIN STREET STRATFORD, CT SUMC phone: ~ fax: SUMC & Good News secretary@sumcct.org SUMC website: Volume 59 No. 2 October 2017 The Rev. Simeon Law, Pastor The Rev. Dr. Donald Kirkham, Pastor Emeritus Chris Muller, Director of Music Beth Buckmir, Preschool Director Mary Jane S. Fast, Church Secretary Page 1 of 17

2 THE PUMPKINS ARE COMING! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 TH, 8:OO AM: DELIVERY & UNLOADING. Volunteers are needed to help unload. Come to help and enjoy a time of fellowship and fun. TENTS/DAYS SCHEDULE DAY DATE TIMES Saturday Oct. 7th 11am-6 pm Sunday Oct. 8th 12 pm-6 pm Mon.-Fri. Oct. 9th-13th 3 pm-6 pm Saturday Oct. 14th 10 am-6 pm Sunday Oct. 15th 12 pm-6 pm Mon.-Fri. Oct. 16th-20th 12 pm-6 pm Saturday Oct. 21st 10 am-6 pm Sunday Oct. 22nd 12 pm-6 pm Mon.-Fri. Oct. 23rd-27th 12 pm-6 pm Saturday Oct. 28th 10 am-6 pm Sunday Oct. 29th (last day) 12 pm-6 pm Signup sheets are posted daily on an easel in the Narthex. Please ADD your phone numbers on the left side of the sheet (should we need to contact you). If you can, please try to do two-hour tent shifts. Page 2 of 17

3 UMCOR Disaster Relief Updates Sometimes the devastation is overwhelming. The waters rise and the rain won t stop. The ground shakes beneath our feet, or the wind blows the roofs off homes. Sometimes, even the side of the mountain roars into town. The problems seem insurmountable, the destruction beyond our comprehension. When tragedy strikes, it is common for us to ask why. In a sermon titled The Promise of Understanding, John Wesley, founder of the Methodist movement, says we may never know. Our good God does not send suffering. According to Wesley, it is entirely contrary to [God s] own nature, and so destructive of his noblest works. Suffering is not punishment for sin or a judgment from God. We suffer, and the world suffers, because we are human and part of a system of processes and a physical environment where things go wrong. As this article is written on September 10, among the places UMCOR is working in disaster relief are: in Sierra Leone, where the flooding and a mudslide killed hundreds on Aug. 15; in Texas, where Hurricane Harvey emergency relief is underway along with plans to begin hosting volunteers to begin assisting with cleanup and rebuilding; in Louisiana, where many hurricane Harvey victims were still working to recover from flooding 18 months ago; In Florida, Pam Garrison, Disaster Response Coordinator for the Florida Conference, said the conference is still working on both coasts to repair damage from Hurricanes Hermine and Matthew. Volusia, Flagler, Putnam and St. Johns counties, where Matthew recovery work is proceeding, are now in Irma s projected path. All these folks we are still trying to help are in the path of harm s way again, she said, adding that volunteers already working in the area are getting ready to help with the Irma response. ; In Georgia and South Carolina, where churches are actively caring for evacuees, and collecting and storing supplies ready to distribute as relief efforts begin; Page 3 of 17

4 UMCOR Disaster Relief Updates (continued) And in multiple places where rebuilding is still taking place from previous hurricanes, tornados, and other disasters (like Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey where hurricane Sandy rebuilding continues). Jesus is calling his disciples and us to a ministry. We are an extension of God s presence in the midst of the tragedy as we come beside those who are suffering in ways we don t comprehend. In the aftermath of tragedy, we give witness to the love of God. In our outpouring of support, we proclaim the value of every human life. As we grieve with those in mourning, we share the love of God. When we send supplies through the United Methodist Committee on Relief, we witness to God s provision. When medical professionals bind up wounds, Jesus is shown as a healer. When homes are rebuilt, we proclaim resurrection. [From several articles on umc.org by Linda Bloom, Vicki Brown, and others.] _ Covenant to Care School Supply Collection: Thanks for your generous donations! I delivered 22 backpacks and 3 boxes full of various supplies to our social worker. She appreciates our support. Marianne Card The Lord s Kitchen: The next time our church will be serving dinner at the Lord s Kitchen will be on Monday, Oct. 16th. There are many ways to help out: make something for the meal, pick up bread at the bakery, donate bags of fresh fruit (always greatly appreciated); help cook, serve, clean up, talk to the guests, donate paper goods, or even donate money to help purchase the many things our church provides for this important mission. The Lord s Kitchen serves meals twice a week on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5 to 6 pm at Christ Episcopal Church in Stratford. If you would like to learn more about this program, please do not hesitate to ask. -- Bonnie and Ray Huey, SUMC Lord s Kitchen Coordinators. Page 4 of 17

5 Connecting Neighbors: Organizing the Local Church for Disaster Ministries All disasters are local: the local church is a major thread in the overall fabric of a community s disaster defenses; the visible presence of the local church is essential in any type of disaster. Disaster response is an effective ministry through which we become instruments of God s healing and hope. By becoming the hands and feet of Christ, we share in a commitment to the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of people in a time of crisis. (Connecting Neighbors, page 7). Connecting Neighbors is a program established by UMCOR to engage local churches in disaster response ministries on more local levels. There are three basic modules: Module 1: Ready Congregants How ready and prepared are you, is your family, in the event of a disaster? Do you have a personal or family plan in place? Module 2: Ready Church Does your church have a disaster preparedness plan? Is your insurance adequate? Are your vital records safe? How do you keep in touch with vulnerable populations within your congregation before, during, and after a disaster? Module 3: Ready Response Is your church part of a community preparedness plan? What are the resources or services your church could offer in the event of a community disaster event? Page 5 of 17

6 Connecting Neighbors: Organizing the Local Church for Disaster Ministries (continued) All churches are encouraged to attend one of the Saturday training events. All the fall sessions are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., unless otherwise indicated. For more information, and to register, please visit the Missions/Disaster response page on the NYAC website. Trainings scheduled in Connecticut: October 21: Seymour UMC, 225 Great Hill Rd., Seymour, Conn. October 28: Grace, UMC, 121 Pleasant St, Southington, Conn. November 4: Simsbury UMC, 799 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury, Conn. A group from Stratford will be attending the October 21st training in Seymour. If you would like to join us, let me know Pat Knebel pknebel@yahoo.com; _ Gardens: Many hands make light work. Our gardens are in need of hands! Teenagers or Adults who can help maintain our gardens and church grounds, please call Marilyn Burgeson, , or the Church Office. We also need mulch. Thank you. Page 6 of 17

7 INCIDENTS AND HAPPENINGS OUT OF OUR PAST The Protestant Reformation On 31 October 2017, Protestants around the world will celebrate the 500 th anniversary of the day in 1517 when the priest and scholar, Martin Luther, nailed a piece of paper to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, containing his 95 revolutionary theses that began the Protestant Reformation. In his theses, Luther condemned the excesses and corruption of the Roman Catholic Church, especially the papal practice of accepting payment, called indulgences, for the forgiveness of sins. At the time, a Dominican priest commissioned by Pope Leo X, was in the midst of a major fundraising campaign in Germany to finance the renovation of St. Peter s Basilica in Rome. Though Prince Frederick III the Wise had banned the sale of indulgences in Wittenberg, many church members purchased them in other states. They showed the pardons they had bought to Luther, claiming that they no longer had to repent for their sins. Luther s frustration with this practice led him to write the "95 Theses," which were quickly translated from Latin into German and distributed widely. A copy made its way to Rome, and efforts began to convince Luther to change his Page 7 of 17

8 INCIDENTS AND HAPPENINGS OUT OF OUR PAST (continued) opinions. He refused to keep silent, and in 1521 Pope Leo X formally excommunicated Luther from the Catholic Church. That same year, Luther again refused to recant his writings before the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V of Germany. The Emperor issued the famous Edict of Worms declaring Luther an outlaw and a heretic, and giving permission for anyone to kill him without consequence. Protected by Prince Frederick of Wittenberg, Luther went into hiding and began working on a German translation of the Bible, a task that took him 10 years to complete. The term Protestant first appeared in 1529, when Charles V revoked a provision that allowed the ruler of each German state to choose whether they would enforce the Edict of Worms. A number of princes and other supporters of Luther issued a protest, declaring that their allegiance to God surpassed their allegiance to the emperor, and became known by their opponents as Protestants. Over the years this name came to be applied to all who believed the Catholic Church should be reformed. By the time Luther died in 1546, his revolutionary beliefs had formed the basis for the Protestant Reformation, which would over the next three centuries revolutionize Western civilization. Page 8 of 17

9 The Church Library contains a number of versions/translations of the Bible. It is sometimes interesting to read a particular verse or chapter in one Bible, and then the same one in another version or translation. Then compare the two and see how they are different or similar. There are several books in the Library that can be used to help you as you think about these questions. The Church Library has a complete 12 volume set of The Interpreter s Bible. Each volume contains one or more books of the Bible, depending on the length of each book. On each page you will find verses from the King James Version and the Revised Standard Version, side by side, allowing you to compare the two translations. Below these, on the same page, you will find an interpretation or critical explanation of the text. Below that section, on the same page, you will find an explanation or exposition of the text. These are sometimes surprising, and you might not agree. Although not designed for casual reading, such as an afternoon in the summer, if you choose to look in any one section, you might find something that gives you another perspective on a particular passage in the Bible. Do you know how many versions or translations of the Bible are in the Church Library? Page 9 of 17

10 UNITED METHODIST WOMEN ASSEMBLY WHEN WOMEN UNITE, BOLD AND COURAGEOUS ACTIONS HAPPEN. May 18-20, 2018 Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, Ohio. United Methodist Women Assembly 2018 is a time for fellowship and opportunity to empower faithful women to be stronger discipleship leaders in their communities. Through moving worship services, inspiring speakers, immersion experience exhibits and riveting workshops and town hallstyle meetings, members will leave the Assembly with the knowledge, courage, and determination to change the world as part of a daring and compassionate 150-year-old movement. Registration is now open for Assembly (Early bird rate of $295 is available through November 30th. Why spend more?) Here is your chance to worship, learn, work, and share stories with thousands of United Methodist Women. Don t miss this chance to be inspired and to learn about the national and global mission of United Methodist Women. For more information: Go to: Contact Pat Knebel at pknebel@yahoo.com or Page 10 of 17

11 OCTOBER 2017 BIRTHDAYS 1 Glen Costa 18 Ed Moyher 2 Bryan Clements 19 Tammy Merry 2 Lisa Semancik 20 Amanda DeBiase 2 Michael Troutman 20 Dorothy Jackson 2 Lee Littrell 20 Marlyn Minkowski 3 James DiStefano 20 William Scofield 5 Jill McFarland 20 Eric Tudino 5 Connor Schuessler 21 Patricia Vrabel 8 Earl Cornelius 22 Cole Maseto 8 Kyle Marie Fuller 22 Kevin Vrabel 9 Charlotte Nedball 22 Lee Berrien 9 Bonnie Peloso 23 Lois Desrosiers 10 Helen Eddy 24 Gary Catalano 10 Mike Kranyak 24 Sharon Tudino 11 Kaitlyn Schuessler 26 Sean Plude 12 William Dina 27 Matt Pulieri 13 William Mattar 28 Thomas D Agostino 13 Carol Studdiford 28 Margaret Schumann 14 Candie Lewonczyk 30 Carolyn Pulieri 15 Kimberly Burrows 30 Blanchard Diavua 15 Caroly Gibson 30 Barbara Plude 18 Linda D Agostino 30 Brian Ruskin If your October birthday isn t on this list, please call the Church Office at Page 11 of 17

12 October 2017 Wedding Anniversaries Oct. 1 st Oct. 7 th Oct. 8 th Oct. 8 th Oct. 9 th Oct. 9 th Oct. 11 th Oct. 14 th Oct. 15 th Oct. 16 th Oct. 25 th Oct. 27 th Oct. 29 th Oct. 29 th Oct. 30 th Oct. 30 th Mr. & Mrs. Peruzzi Mr. & Mrs. Pierson Mr. & Mrs. Giammattei Mr. & Mrs. T. Russell Mr. & Mrs. Hermanson Mr. & Mrs. Dina Mr. & Mrs. Pasmeg Mr. & Mrs. Brophy Mr. & Mrs. Wheatcraft Mr. & Mrs. Basque Mr. & Mrs. Olah Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Costa Mr. & Mrs. Graham Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Costa Mr. & Mrs. McCarthy Mr. & Mrs. Listorti Page 12 of 17

13 Congratulations to: Melanie and David Costa on the baptism of their daughter, Sophia Ann Costa; and congratulations also to Kalyn and Justin Bard on the baptism of their twins, Remi Farrell and Silas Jon Bard. The fall music season is about to start. If you or your children play an instrument, we would love to have you participate in the music for Sunday worship. We are also looking for choir members. If you have any choir experience, please join us on Thursday evening at 7pm for rehearsal. Our first rehearsal of the season was on Thurs., Sept 7th. If you are interested, please see Chris Muller, Director of Music, after worship, or Page 13 of 17

14 New SUMC Finance Chair Needed SUMC needs a new Finance Chairperson beginning January Please contact Pastor Simeon if you are interested. Below is a list of the main responsibilities: Weekly: On Sunday, take the contribution plates from the Altar to the Finance room, separating the contributions (into envelopes, cash, checks, and other) and leaving them in the church safe. Assist counters/recorders with resolving any issues/questions they may have when recording the contributions. Monthly: Review of month and YTD Financial reports and review any irregularities. Bi-Monthly: Report financial position to the Church Council at scheduled meetings. Quarterly: Provide quarterly financial position for inclusion in the Church Bulletin. Prepare report showing receipts, disbursements and balance of the Benevolence account to the Committee Chair quarterly. Print and mail contribution statements at June end, September end, and year end; answering donor questions as they arise. Semi-Annually: Schedule and lead Semi-Annual Financial Committee meetings. Yearly: Prepare the Financial Budget for presentation and approval by the Church Council. Team with the Treasurer to gather current and past financial data along with future changes. Once approved, update the data base. Submit a Financial Report for the Yearly Charge Conference Annual Report. As Needed: Team with the Treasurer to review invoices and record payments. Act as additional signer on checks. Obtain necessary signature approval on major project invoices. Team with the Treasurer and the Membership Committee to update and maintain the Finance membership data base. Assist the Stewardship Team by providing needed data base information. Page 14 of 17

15 Discussion Group will meet on the 2 nd Sunday of the month after service at 12 pm. First meeting will be on October 8 th. Youth Group will meet on the 3 rd Sunday of the month at 6:30 pm. The first meeting will be on October 15 th at the church. Trunk or Treat will be on Sunday, October 29 th, at 11:30 am. Watch for more information on the website and in the bulletin. Weekday Bible Study will be moving to a new time to be decided by the group on their meeting on September 21 st at 10 am. CHURCH COUNCIL MINUTES are available on the Narthex Table. You are welcome to take a copy. SO MANY VOLUNTEER MINISTRIES: What position would interest you? There are many great opportunities available. Please speak to Burdette James about what you would like to try. SUMC NEIGHBORHOOD BREAKFAST: Third Saturday of each month. We are currently serving an average of thirty to forty meals at our Neighborhood Breakfast. We welcome new volunteers, or just stop by and enjoy a meal with us. If you wish to volunteer, in any capacity, please contact Ray & Jo-Ann Burrows: or raybur14@aol.com. USHERS NEEDED! Ushers and greeters normally sign up for the specific Sundays they are available. ALTAR GUILD: The Altar Guild is responsible for preparing our Sanctuary for worship. Their main responsibility includes changing the altar cloths. Page 15 of 17

16 THE THRIFT SHOP IS NOW OPEN Our new hours are Thurs. and Fri., 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, and Sat., 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. During the first two weekends, the Thrift Shop realized over $900 due to the good donations we get, which are not limited to clothing and accessories. We also have housewares, bedding, small appliances, books, games, puzzles, toys, jewelry, knick-knacks, window dressing, etc. We depend on donations and, of course, our customers to thrive and, indeed, to remain viable. Therefore, we wish to thank both our customers and our donors for their continued support. Come and browse! We have lots of good things with many new items. Thrift Shop Volunteers Thank you! I appreciate all of your prayers, thoughts, cards, and visitations during my recent stay in the hospital. Gail Warmke Thanks to: those who collated the Good News on Aug. 23 rd : Diane Troutman, Barbara Hagan, Cecelia and Howard Jack, Barbara Piper, and Marianne Card. ALL ARTICLES FOR THE GOOD NEWS SHOULD BE ED TO SECRETARY@SUMCCT.ORG OR DROPPED OFF IN THE GOOD NEWS BOX IN THE CHURCH OFFICE. THANK YOU! GOOD NEWS SCHEDULE FOR 2017 Good News Issue Articles Due no later than... Good News Mailed November October 11th October 25th December November 8th November 22th In addition to reading The Good News, bulletin supplements, viewing our website (sumcct.org), looking at our Facebook page, or checking out the local newspapers, there is another way to keep up-to-date on upcoming events at S.U.M.C. Call the Church Office ( ) when it isn't staffed (that would be after 1:30 p.m. weekdays and all weekends). Press 5 to hear a calendar of upcoming events. The recording is updated on a regular basis. Page 16 of 17

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