An Invitation to A Discussion about Substance Abuse

Transcription

1 October 2016 An Invitation to A Discussion about Substance Abuse Worship in October Sunday Morning Worship at 9:30 am Sunday, October 2 Sixteenth Sunday a-er Pentecost Bold Praying Jazz Vespers 5 pm Sunday, October 9 Seventeenth Sunday a-er Pentecost Bold Sharing Worship Hike Sunday, October 16 Eighteenth Sunday a-er Pentecost Bold Inviting Wednesday, October 19 Midweek Service of Healing Sunday, October 23 Nineteenth Sunday a-er Pentecost Bold Giving Sunday, October 30 Nineteenth Sunday a-er Pentecost Bold Church Sunday, October 2 Chris<anity in India Saturdays, October 8, 15, 22 Labyrinth Work Days Thursday, October 13 Book Group Saturday, October 29 EMU Workshop Sunday, October 30 Luther Places & Events I once heard that the most grace coming out of congrega2ons happens quietly and anonymously at the evening AA mee2ngs. If this is true it doesn't bother me. If a life is saved, it doesn't ma=er if it happens on Sunday morning or on Tuesday evening. At our recent West Windsor Religious Leaders mee2ng I was taken by the words of our guest, John Mincarelli. John is the director of opera2ons for Recovery Advocates of America. This organiza2on endeavors to unite our communi2es in the fight against drug and alcohol addic2on, providing exper2se and care in the areas of interven2ons, treatment placement, advocacy and addi2onal services. John's mantra is that addicts are good people with a bad problem. He advises that addic2on is about having a hole in the soul, one that addicts unfortunately seek to fill with drugs and alcohol. He also reminds us that West Windsor and our surrounding communi2es are not immune to the heroin and opiate epidemic within Mercer County. It may be hidden, which might make the problem worse, since addicts are more hesitant to seek help. I have invited John to speak at our next youth night, Sunday, October 23, at 6:30. I'm invi2ng youth and parents, but I want to open the night up to anyone with a concern about this problem, and a desire to address it. John is funny, honest, inspira2onal, but mostly a life saver to those crippled by addic2on. I encourage your a=endance. Pastor Froehlke Embracing the Boldness of our Faith Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the Lord your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. See page 5 for more information about the 2016 stewardship emphasis.

2 A Reason to Sing The Interna2onal Peace Day was observed around the world on September 21. This day was selected because it coincides each year with the gathering of the General Assembly of the United Na2ons. The General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all na2ons and peoples. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said this in his remarks, Let us all work together to help all human beings achieve dignity and equality; to build a greener planet; and to make sure no one is lei behind. The mere con2nuing existence of the UN brings me hope. As long as we con2nue to come together and keep dialogues open, perhaps progress can con2nue to be made in interac2ons among peoples and na2ons. As part of the Interna2onal Peace Day observance, I was struck by the symbolic ac2ons of Ban Ki-moon: he rang a bell on the grounds of the UN in observance of the day. And children from various countries gathered together to play a musical selec2on. It was the act of Tidings, the newsle=er of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, is published monthly. Ar2cles, story ideas, and comments can be ed to loismcase@gmail.com. Deadline for the November issue is Sunday, October 23 Staff and Officers of Prince of Peace Rev. Peter Froehlke, Pastor Dr. Doug Helvering, Minister of Music Kathy Nowak, Parish Administrator Tom Marvil, Church Musician Daniel Tate, Field Educa2on Student Tim Urbanek, Treasurer Dorothy Safranek, Financial Secretary Congregational Council Lois Case (President) Mike Fabian (Vice President) Josh Grim Brandi Hebert Nancy Herrington Beth Kaminski Melody Kronenberg Kathy Morris Mar2n Rexroad Diane Urbanek Newman Wilson David New, Secretary (non-vo2ng) ringing a bell, of playing a violin, of singing, that facilitated the very peace that was being recognized. Over the summer, I was honored to write a brand new piece of music for the Westminster Choir College fall Convoca2on. It was sung by the en2re Westminster Community on September 6. And our own Prince of Peace Adult Choir sang it for the first 2me in a worship sebng on September 18. The work incorporates Dona Nobis Pacem, meaning grant us peace with a new hymn text by theologian Adam Tice. The text opens saying Who will sing for peace when warfare reigns supreme? And, who will work for jus2ce when it seems but a dream? Throughout the work, the ques2on of who will is asked, and the choir responds, saying we will. It is oien said that music is a universal language. I disagree, in part, with the statement. Language has rela2vely specific meaning. I would guess that one person listening to a Beethoven symphony would take its meaning differently than another listener. Rather, I think that music is simply universal. Even my father, the most non-musical person I know, responds emo2onally when presented with music that has value to him. So, why did Ban Ki-moon ring a bell to signify Interna2onal Peace Day? Why do protes2ng ac2vists sing together? Why do mourners at a funeral sing together? Why is the na2onal anthem offered at major events across our country? Why do parishioners sing during worship? Why do missionaries sing with the people they meet? I think the answer is this: music has the power to evoke deep primal feelings at the core of the shared human experience; it crosses cultures, breaks down language barriers, and connects us all. One of the young people at church recently astutely said: It would be very hard to fight with someone if you re busy making music with them. Indeed what a precious thought. Peace, Doug October Music Schedule 10/2 Adult Choir Jazz Vespers (Prince of Peace Musicians) 10/9 Adult Choir/Nightingale Bells 10/16 Adult Choir 10/23 Kids of the Kingdom Chimes of Worship - 2 -

3 October Events Jazz Vespers Coming October 2, 5 pm This fall s second Jazz Vespers is on Sunday, October 2, at 5:00 pm. The focus on this World Communion Sunday will be music on Communion and Community. Musicians from Prince of Peace will be our leaders. All are welcome; invite a friend. Worship Hike, October 9 To carpool, gather in the church parking lot at 11:15 The fall worship hike is scheduled for Sunday, October 9th. Worshippers will return to the Plainsboro Preserve, which has become a favorite site to take in the fall colors and worship lake side with all ages at Prince of Peace. The hike takes place during the Chris2an Educa2on offering for the day. If you would like to carpool, gather in the parking lot at 11:15. More Labyrinth Work Scheduled October 8, 15, 22 Many thanks to everyone who helped clean up the garden space, tote bricks, lay bricks, mix mortar,and provide food for the crew on September 24. Good progress was made. Remaining work includes mortaring in a thousand or so bricks, and many people are needed for this. Coaching is available, so even if you ve never laid bricks, this is your chance to learn and move the project along at the same 2me. Come for as many or as few hours as you can. The crews will be there from 9 am to 6 pm. Snacks, drinks, and lunch provided. Midweek Service of Healing October 19, 7:30 Wednesday, October 19th is Prince of Peace s first midweek service of the season at 7:30 pm. This will be a service of healing. The service includes scripture, prayers, and an opportunity to come forward for the laying on of hands at the altar. Many find this worship a source of personal and communal comfort and support. You are encouraged to come for dinner in the Fellowship Hall at 6: Wonderful Wednesdays Continue The Wonderful Wednesday program is con2nuing in October with ac2vi2es every Wednesday evening. People of all ages are always welcome at the community meal at 6:40 pm. Youth music rehearsals are before dinner, and Pastor s educa2on class on the Book of Daniel is at 7:30 pm, except on October 19, when there will be a Service of Healing. Contact Doug Helvering for more informa2on. Book Group Meets October 13, 7:30 At the Church House Please RSVP to Betsy Riley, Betsyfriley@gmail.com The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty In this novel, Moriarty focuses on the lives of three middle-aged Australian women who suffer upheavals in their lives Cecilia, Tess, and Rachel. Cecilia discovers a le=er meant to be read at her husband's death. She reads it now, even though he is very much alive, and discovers a secret that sha=ers her life. Tess is shocked and dismayed when her husband and cousin tell her they are in love. Rachel is s2ll grieving over her daughter's murder more than twenty years before, when she learns that her son, his wife, and her beloved grandchild plan to move to New York. The author connects these three women and their stories in a book that is both wi=y and thought-provoking. November 10 At the home of Bente Ott 47 Gordon Way, Princeton RSVP to benteott@gmail.com or call The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah Kris2n Hannah tells the story of two French sisters Vianne and Isabelle and their experiences in WW II. Vianne s husband is away at the Front when the Nazis invade France and requisi2on her home. She and her daughter are then forced to live with the enemy in order to survive. Her sister joins the Resistance and risks her life again and again to save others. The author illuminates a part of WWII history oien neglected the women s war. The book group meets the second Thursday of the month. New members are always welcome. If interested, please contact Phyllis Church at or p.church@mindspring.com

4 More October Events Rev. Sara Liljia To Preach on October 23 Sunday morning October 23, Prince of Peace welcomes Rev. Sara Liljia, Director of the Lutheran Episcopal Advocacy Ministry of New Jersey. Rev. Liljia will be preacher for the day and will also lead the adult class during the Chris2an Educa2on Hour. The topic for the day will be to encourage, empower, and equip Lutherans for responsible civic engagement based on our faith values. Rev. Liljia's words on the 23rd will inspire as we live through this difficult elec2on cycle. Youth Night at Prince of Peace All Invited To Junior and Senior High School Students, Parents, and Congregational Members: The congrega2on is invited for an evening with John Mincarelli, from Recovery Advocates of America on Sunday, October 23rd, 6:30 pm. Pastor Froehlke For more information about John Mincarelli and Recovery Advocates, see Pastor s message on page 1. Excellence in Ministry Unleashed Lab Saturday, October 29 The Excellence in Ministry, Unleashed (EMU) ini2a2ve in our Synod is naming the issues that create debilita2ng anxiety among our lay and rostered leaders. In that process, EMUNJ is dedicated to journey with synod leaders so that we may gain new eyes, see cri2cally our ins2tu2onal life, and recommit ourselves to what is essen2al. The EMU Lab event is intended to create a cauldron of explora2on and experimenta2on that will s2mulate new behaviors and new perspec2ves on our life and ministry. EMU Labs are intended to strengthen the congrega2on and its ministry. A one-day EMU LAB will be held in Manasquan Saturday, October 29. A group from Prince of Peace plans on a=ending. We will leave Prince of Peace at 9:00 am and return by 3:30 pm. Speak with Pastor or Joan New if you're interested in going. Spiritual Direction Offered The Prince of Peace Church House hosts Living in Grace Ministries, a spiritual direc2on and retreat ministry under the direc2on of Pastor Dale Selover. If you are in the process of discernment, or if you are seeking a deeper rela2onship with God, spiritual direc2on may be for you. Dale is available by appointment. Please call Dr. Karlfried Froelich To Present Luther Places and Events October 30 To mark the beginning of the 500th year since the beginning of the Reforma2on, Dr. Karlfried Froelich will give a presenta2on on significant towns of the early Reforma2on years. Come hear how many ci2es in Germany preserve the memory of key events in Mar2n Luther's life and the Reforma2on during the Chris2an Educa2on hour on Reforma2on Sunday. The presenta2on will include slides that help bring to life the period Luther lived in. Fall Clothing Drive for the Rescue Mission of Trenton All of October This fall, the Clothing Drive for the Rescue Mission of Trenton will take place during the en2re month of October. Look for the dona2on box in the Gathering Area. As in the past, gently used or new clothing and shoes for all ages and of any size and season will be gratefully appreciated, as will belts, linens, and small household items (no jewelry, though). Thank you in advance for your dona2ons. They will provide muchneeded items for persons who are in need. And thank you for your partnership in this ministry. The Social Outreach Ministry Team October TASK Donation is Canned Fruit The Social Outreach team has designated canned fruit as the contribu2on of the month for the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK). Dona2ons can be placed in the wooden box in the breezeway

5 Stewardship Emphasis Stewardship Emphasis: Bold Giving To say it boldly, the world needs the church. We can't take a casual approach to our ministries. Our mission, under the cross, connects congrega2on and community to the way of Jesus. Prince of Peace s stewardship emphasis this fall encourages us to be bold. Each Sunday in October we will lii up our boldness: October 2 Bold Praying October 9 Bold Sharing October 16 Bold Invi2ng Congregational Project: BOLD Collection October 23 Bold Giving October 30 Bold Church During the month of October, as a part of Prince of Peace s Stewardship emphasis, all disciples are challenged to bring any product with the word BOLD included on the packaging. Deuteronomy 31:6 guides our process this fall: Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the Lord your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. It might be in the name of the product, in the tag line on the packaging, or in the descrip2on on the packaging. Let's see how many different products can be found! We will find homes for all products with those in need. Embrace the boldness of our faith. Pray, Share, Invite, and Give Boldly. An Update on Church Finances At the congrega2onal council mee2ng on September 20, Finance Chair Eric Jorgensen distributed and reviewed the financials through August 31, 2016 (67% of the year). in a restricted account. That leaves us in a tenuous cash posi2on. Our cash situa2on may also be impacted by the fact that those assets include $43K in the Cherry Tree Club Fund. Discussions of how those funds should be par22oned between Prince of Peace and HomeFront are ongoing and likely won t be completed un2l all remaining income and expenses are in; this should happen toward the end of the year. August is typically a low giving month, and this is reflected in the results. Total income is at 65% of plan, with envelope giving at 66%; expenses are at 67%. As a result, our net income for the year is $3K in the red, a nega2ve shii of nearly $14K compared to the end of July. To preempt any poten2al cash flow problems, Eric is in discussions with Bank of America to open a line of credit. Eric noted that this is partly because we haven t yet received the monthly benefits check from Christ the King; and August was a heavy maintenance month. The complete financial report is posted on the bulle2n board in the narthex and copies are available upon request. The Current/General Fund deficit currently stands at $65K. As of August 31, total assets are at $27K, which is about one month s worth of cash; about $8K of that is -5-

6 Some Thoughts on the Closing of The Cherry Tree Club Thank you to all who helped honor the closing of The Cherry Tree Club ministry on September 18th. The church service and the brunch both provided a meaningful opportunity to share in the accomplishments of the program and to acknowledge its life and closure. Words shared in a letter from Pastor Gregg Kaufman Pastor at Prince of Peace when the CTC started I join you and, people in giving thanks to God for the congrega2on's Cherry Tree Club ministry. The partnership among staff, HomeFront, board members, parishioners and ci2zens made a difference in hundreds of lives and contributed to breaking the cycle of poverty for many. The Holy Spirit inspired and upheld those who volunteered. While the author of Ecclesiastes teaches us that there is a 2me for everything and a season for every ac2vity under heaven a 2me for embracing and a 2me for lebng go a favorite contemporary author of mine, Henri Nouwen, speaks to the longing we feel when we need to separate. He said to a dear friend, Remember, all the ground between us is holy ground. May it be our faith that aier two decades of loving and being loved by the Cherry Tree Club children, all the ground between us is holy ground. Words shared by Wendy Schutzer, Director, Cherry Tree Club I am deeply humbled by all that everyone has done for CTC over the years. And I am inclined to be so, so sad that our program is coming to an end. But on the day of our final CTC gradua2on this past June, my beau2ful 23-year-old daughter, Johanna, did me a great service. She gave me a card, and much of what she wrote is too personal to share. But in the card, she shared a quote that I'm embarrassed to say that I'd never heard before. It is a quote by the famous children's author Dr. Seuss, and he said, Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened. And with those words, I feel great sa2sfac2on and peace. We rejoice in what the CTC did for 21 years. And we pray that our 21 years of dedica2on to the lives of these children will reap rewards rewards that we may never know, but which we have faith will occur because we know we served each and every child and family with love, compassion and dedica2on. A message sent from US Senator Corey Booker to the CTC children in June I want to give a message to the young folks and wish them all the best. There's a lot of love around you and a world wai2ng for your energy, for your intelligence, for your dignity, and your strength. So I just want to wish all the young people all the best. I'm excited about you and just hopeful for great futures ahead. To the CongregaTon: Please accept my hearxelt thanks for the beau2ful crystal vase, inscribed with the meaningful words, Truly I tell you whatever you did for the least of these you did for me. I will cherish this vase, and think of the wonderful years serving The Cherry Tree Club every 2me I use it. Wendy Schutzer Three remarkable women (left to right): Shaneica Kitusha, Cherry Tree Club head teacher; Wendy Schutzer; CTC director; and Connie Mercer, director of Home Front. -6-

7 Reminder: On-Line Directory Available Members and friends of Prince of Peace are encouraged to take advantage of the convenience of the congrega2on s online directory and to get the mobile app. Both are very easy to use and allow you to update your own informa2on. If you did not receive the explaining how to use the directory, or have misplaced it, and would like to use the directory, please contact Kathy in the church office ( or kathynowak@popnj.org). If you use the directory from a public computer, it is important to remember to log off at the end of your session. We believe our provider (ctrn) has good security but s2ll think it s important to use the usual precau2ons when using public computers. We hope you will find this online directory to be a convenient and useful tool. A new hardcopy of the directory is also available in the church breezeway if you would prefer. Thank you, Prince of Peace... Meals on Wheels has thanked Prince of Peace for the gii of $598, which will provide 100 hot, nutri2ous meals for the homebound in the Trenton/Ewing area. Lutheran Social Ministries has sent thanks for Prince of Peace s contribu2ons, which helped make it possible to provide five hundred children with backpacks filled with school supplies this fall. LSM Director Beth Gebhard writes: Your compassion and concern for those in need is an incredible gii

8 A Message about the Coming Election Tracie Bartholomew, Bishop, New Jersey Synod, ELCA For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another. Gala2ans 5:13 In these weeks leading up to na2onal elec2ons, our church has a role to play. Contrary to those who decry a false war on Chris<anity, we are called and empowered to speak out and speak up on issues that affect our neighbors, our country and the world. Walking wet throughout our lives, the promises made in bap2sm compel us to work for jus2ce and peace in all the earth and to serve all people following the example of Jesus. This means that we par2cipate in civic ma=ers, including vo2ng, and we raise awareness of issues that affect the most vulnerable among us including people of color, those who live in poverty, refugees and immigrants, the elderly, the unemployed, and more. We can provide places for people of differing poli2cal persuasions to come together to discuss how we best serve our neighbor and by looking at policies put forth by the various candidates for office. We can model loving those who disagree with us no ma=er how difficult that may be! We must call out hate speech, in all its forms, and dispel lies that seek to alienate any group of God s beloved children. We go to the polls to elect candidates who will work for the common good rather than vo2ng for those who we think will benefit our self-interests. And we pray for those seeking public office and for those who will cast votes. As we hear a cacophony of voices shou2ng to get our a=en2on, let us put our faith into ac2on by listening to one another, reading up on policy plaxorms, and elec2ng those who will uphold our greatest ideals of liberty and jus2ce for all. We pray Almighty God, you watch over our country and bless its people. Make us always remember your generosity and constantly do your will. Bless our land with honest industry, truthful educa<on, and an honorable way of life. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil course of ac<on. Make us who come from many na<ons with many different languages a united people. Defend our liber<es and give those whom you have entrusted with authority of government the spirit of wisdom, that there might be jus<ce and peace in our land. When <mes are prosperous, let our hearts be thankful; and in troubled <mes, do not let our trust in you fail. We ask all this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Adapted from LBW prayer

9 Parish Care October 2016 Sharing care and concern with those in our community in times of need and joy. Boldly Growing our Connections and starting New Connections Now that the new church year has started, we are gewng our projects up and running. We need your help with some details. Boldly Connecting with Each Other Young Adults We are gathering mailing, shipping, and addresses for our young adults who are away at school. We keep in touch with our students throughout the year. Please make sure we have current addresses. Our first mailing is going out in early November, so please make sure we have the informa2on. Care Note Ministry In the breezeway you may have no2ced a display of Care Notes. These are pamphlets with spiritual messages to help with everyday life events. They are for all to take and benefit from their messages. It is 2me to think about restocking our supply. In the past we have had dona2ons made to help cover the cost between $100 to $150. If you are interested in suppor2ng this ministry, dona2ons can be made to the church with a memo note Care Notes. Many thanks to Ginger Reierson for keeping the display full and current. We con2nue our monthly mailings to families with newborns and families that have lost loved ones. Boldly Connecting and Growing Our Connection with The Local Community We will be Christmas caroling on December 18th following our morning worship service. All ages and voices are welcome. This has been a very heartwarming project for all our singers and those we are singing to. This year we are taking packets of pocket 2ssues and book markers as giis for the folks we visit. These items will be decorated with warm Holiday wishes to all. You can help with this project by purchasing some pocket 2ssues (~150 packets are needed) helping to decorate some book marks wri2ng a warm holiday wish on holiday cards. Mark your calendar now to come along and sing a few carols to members of our community, who greatly appreciate being remembered. Tissues can be brought to church and placed in the designated box. We will be decora2ng the packets, cards, and bookmarks during the educa2on hour this fall. Boldly Caring for Others Rides are needed to and from church on Sunday mornings. We have a need to have a few meals prepared and delivered to some members. If you can prepare a simple meal to share, please let me know. October 4 is our first date. We can then coordinate schedules. We are looking for a few folks to make some monthly phone calls a simple care about you check in. If you would like to help with any of these projects or be part of the team, please let me know. We are always looking for new ways to share our care with others. Contact: Martha Winder, maw14jpw@aol.com - 9 -

10 177 Princeton-Hightstown Road Princeton Junc2on NJ Church Office: Fax: @popnj.org Website: popnj.org Worship: Sunday, 9:30 am Sunday Schedule Worship at 9:30 am Office Hours Monday - Thursday 9 am to 2 pm Friday 9 am to Noon