Monthly Newsletter of The Peoples Church, 200 W. Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI l l ThePeoplesChurch.com

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Edwina Hill
5 years ago
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From Resurrection Sunday to Confirmation Sunday, we see moments of great rejoicing in faith and action.

Let us be joyfully grateful for a God who encourages us to rejoice with those who are rejoicing. Thank you for your faithful participation in the resurrection life we enjoy through Jesus Church!

1 Portal Rev. Andrew Pomerville, Senior Pastor Rev. Drew Filkins, Associate Pastor Alan Canady, Chairperson, Council of Elders APRIL 2017 Monthly Newsletter of The Peoples Church, 200 W. Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI l l ThePeoplesChurch.com A SEASON OF CELEBRATION IS UPON US... April ushers in a great time of celebration here at The Peoples Church. From Resurrection Sunday to Confirmation Sunday, we see moments of great rejoicing in faith and action. Thank you for joining our congregation in giving gratitude to God for the many blessings, transitions, and thanksgiving experiences we have this spring. Let us be joyfully grateful for a God who encourages us to rejoice with those who are rejoicing. Thank you for your faithful participation in the resurrection life we enjoy through Jesus Church! Pastor Andrew SUPPORT BETSY AHO AS SHE MOVES TOWARD ORDINATION You are invited to attend the the Ecclesiastical Council for the Examination of Betsy Aho at 1 p.m. on April 22 at Clinton United Church of Christ, 300 Tecumseh Rd., Clinton, MI The Ecclesiastical Council is her final step to be approved for ordination in the United Church of Chirst, pending a call to a church. Your presence is encouraged and your prayers are welcome. Betsy will be introduced, deliver a short sermon that highlights her faith journey and call to ministry, and will answer questions from UCC pastors and laity before a vote is taken for approval. The process takes about an hour. All are welcome to show support! THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE IS JUST THE LANGUAGE In August, Peoples Church member Rachel Ledebuhr began her 27-month service with the Peace Corps. After six months in Mozambique, she wrote to share about her new experience of church. Almost every Sunday (since apparently when it rains hard, church doesn t happen because tin roofs and hard rain makes sermons impossible to hear), I get up around 5:45 a.m., sweep my concrete floor of cockroaches, crickets, other random bugs and so much sand, take a bucket bath, and walk over to the local Catholic church with my host family. The vovos (elderly women and men) are usually already there, and I m always greeted with kisses and smiles (think: Mozambican welcoming committee). I take my seat on the rickety wooden benches near the front (where I was placed on day one), and the drums and the singing start. We all stand, singing in the local language (or just dancing and clapping on my part), and the priest walks in along with 10 girls dancing in traditional wear. The service flows much like I am used to: there are scripture readings, the Lord s prayer, singing, passing the peace, communion, giving of tithes and offerings, a sermon and more singing and dancing. The biggest difference is just the language: something that was beautifully pointed out to me on my first service. A community member spoke to me after, saying, It s okay if you didn t understand much, our God speaks all languages. Since then my local language skills are improving, and I am able to understand more throughout the services, but the thing I love most is the sense of open arms and welcoming congregation that reminds me of the church I miss dearly back in East Lansing, thousands of miles away. I can t thank you all enough for your love, support and prayers! Estamos juntos (we are together), fambani kwatsi (go well), and lots of love, - Rachel

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2017 REGISTRATION IS OPEN Children who have completed Kindergarten through the fifth grade are invited to attend Hero Central, our 2017 Vacation Bible School program June 19-23

2 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2017 REGISTRATION IS OPEN Children who have completed Kindergarten through the fifth grade are invited to attend Hero Central, our 2017 Vacation Bible School program June at Woldumar Nature Center. Cost for the week is $25 (pre-camp or post-camp care is available for additional costs). Register at ThePeopleChurch.com. Questions? Contact Children s Christian Education Director Julie Bills at jbills@thepeopleschurch. com or SIGN-UP & SMILE! Due to the great response, we have added more dates for directory photos! Times are available on from 11:00 a.m. - 2:10 p.m. on March 30 and on Monday, April 1 from 3:00-8:40 p.m. Slots are already being filled, so go to ThePeoplesChurch.com and click on the Sign Up & Smile link, or call the church office to schedule an appointment! You can also use your 2015 photo, if you had one, by contacting the church office or speaking to Betsy Aho. CHURCH CONTINUES TO GROW MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT Facility Director Andy Mayville reports the building s energy consumption as seen a noticeable decreased since the installation of new energy efficient boilers were installed last summer. The church s energy costs decreased 15 percent, comparing $59,632 in January 2016 to $50,705 in January 2017 and total greenhouse gas emissions saw a 14 percent decrease, comparing metric tons in January 2016 to metric tons in January The Peoples Church ENERGY STAR score rose 21 percent from 61 to 74. A score of 75 indicates that at a property is performing in the 75th percentile and may be eligible to earn ENERGY STAR Certification. APRIL BIRTHDAYS *80 & OVER 1 - Gary Calkins 2 - Audrey Martin 4 - Phyllis Grunewald 11 - Al Leppek 23 - Bob Martin ANNIVERSARIES *MILESTONE & John & Mary Anne Larzelere (50) 10 - Fran & Bradley (40) If we missed you, please accept our apology. Contact the office to make sure we have your correct information on file. PORTAL DEADLINE Deadline for submissions to the May 2017 Portal is April 19. Submit content to communications@thepeopleschurch.com or the Church Office.

SCIENCE, FAITH & TECHNOLOGY Henry & Annabel Larzelere Memorial Lecture Series By the Waters of Babylon SUNDAY, APRIL 23, 2017 8:30 & 10:30 A.M. WORSHIP SERVICE Rev. James B.

iv, PhD President of the Presbyterian Association on Science, Technology, and the Christian Faith 2:30 P.M.

continuing education on topics of international interest and theological thought.

3 SCIENCE, FAITH & TECHNOLOGY Henry & Annabel Larzelere Memorial Lecture Series By the Waters of Babylon SUNDAY, APRIL 23, :30 & 10:30 A.M. WORSHIP SERVICE Rev. James B. Miller, MDiv, Phd, Guest Preacher SINGING THE LORD S SONG IN THE 21ST CENTURY SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER 11:30 P.M. LUNCHEON Snider Social Hall 12:30 P.M. SESSION I OUR FOREIGN LAND AND HOW WE GOT THERE Snider Social Hall Rev. James B. Miller, MDiv, PhD President of the Presbyterian Association on Science, Technology, and the Christian Faith 2:30 P.M. SESSION II SINGING THE LORD S SONG ANEW Snider Social Hall The Henry and Annabel Larzelere Memorial Lecture Series is being established in 2017 to honor their interest in continuing education on topics of international interest and theological thought. Henry and Annabel moved to East Lansing in 1938 where Henry was a new faculty member in the college of Agriculture at MSU. They promptly joined The Peoples Church and became deeply involved in the church community as well as in greater Lansing where they were active in a great variety of civic activities. Henry and Annabel were world travelers who were always building bridges of hope and understanding. Our desire is that these lectures will inspire and strengthen us to serve with compassionate love as we strive to build a more just and peaceful world. 200 W. Grand River Ave. East Lansing, MI ThePeoplesChurch.com

PEOPLES CHURCH CAMPUS MINISTRY We are back from our week in hospitable Ft. Pierce, Fla., working with Habitat for Humanity and we had a wonderful experience.

Pierce, the purpose and mission of Habitat for Humanity, and we grew closer to friends new and old while devoting time to God and giving back. We hope to return to Ft.

4 PEOPLES CHURCH CAMPUS MINISTRY We are back from our week in hospitable Ft. Pierce, Fla., working with Habitat for Humanity and we had a wonderful experience. Together, we learned more about the diverse and welcoming community of Ft. Pierce, the purpose and mission of Habitat for Humanity, and we grew closer to friends new and old while devoting time to God and giving back. We hope to return to Ft. Pierce again in the future to continue serving with the community and Habitat for Humanity. In the mean time, I encourage you to find a college student and ask questions about our experience. We love to talk about our alternative spring break trip! - Betsy Aho Pancake Brunch Fund Raiser April 9, 2017 Join us in Snider Social Hall following the 10:30 a.m. worship service. Pancakes, sausage, applesauce, coffee,tea, milk and juice will be served.

5 CONNECT GROW SERVE SHARE PILGRIMAGE FOR PEACE APR. 2 The Peoples Church is partnering with Congregation Shaarey Zedek and the Islamic Center of East Lansing in a community pilgrimage for peace, hope and unity on Apr. 2. We will begin with prayers in reflections at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, 1924 Coolidge Rd. at 2 p.m. Participants are then invited to drive to The People Church for prayers and reflections at 2:30 p.m. From here, we will walk through MSU s campus (drive if you prefer) to the Islamic Center of Greater Lansing, 920 S. Harrison Rd., where we will conclude with prayers and reflections at 3:30 p.m. (Transportation back to The Peoples Church will be provided. BOY SCOUTS PANCAKE BRUNCH APR. 9 Make sure to bring your appetite to church next Sunday. The Peoples Church s Boy Scouts Troop 2 and Venture Crew 2 will host their annual Pancake Brunch on Apr. 9 beginning at 11:30 a.m. in Snider Social Hall. READING PEOPLE APR. 20 The Reading People will gather at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 19 in the Robertson Room to discuss The Paris Architect by Charles Belfoure. Questions? Contact Joanne Keith at KNITTING PEOPLE APR. 27 The Knitting People will meet again from 1 to 4 p.m. on Apr. 27. New knitters invited! We are continuing our work on prayers shawls and baby items, mittens and hats. Questions? Call Mary Anne at VBS SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS This year we are offering Hero Central Vacation Bible School at a steep discount to our families and our community ($25). We are relying on the generosity of our congregation to accomplish this. Community Engagement Ministry has offered a $2,500 matching gift to all donations for VBS scholarships. Consider supporting this wonderful program that offers an amazing experience to more than 100 children. Questions? Contact, Pastor Drew Filkins. IN SEARCH OF WELCOMING VOLUNTEERS The Peoples Church Welcome Ministry is always happy to embrace New Volunteers! Help serve up Coffee Fellowship on Sunday mornings or help with hospitality at our Welcome Desk. Interested? Learn more and sign up at ThePeopleChurch.com Look under CONNECT. Questions? Contact Diane at dmshafer2001@gmail.com or Robin at matheso4@msu.edu. VOLUNTEER WITH TROOP 2 Boy Scouts Troop 2 is looking for a volunteer to serve as its chartered organization representative to serve as liaison between the church and the troop. The time commitment would involve one 2-hour committee meeting each month as well as arranging facility and van use with the church. Other CSA tasks could be helping select leadership for the troop, promoting the program at the church, and suggesting service projects for the church. Someone with previous scouting experience would be desirable, but is not necessary. If you are interested or have questions please contact Cheryl Leece at leececm44@gmail.com or Women of Peoples Church DEBORAH CIRCLE Meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in The Lounge following the WNL! community meal. Childcare available. Questions? Contact Jessica Eysselinck at DORCAS CIRCLE Meetings are the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. On Apr. 18 we will learn more about Autism. Join us in the Robertson Room. Questions? Contact Phyllis Gaulden at REBEKAH/HANNAH CIRCLE Meetings are the fourth Wednesday of each month at 12:30 or 1 p.m. Join us on at 1 p.m. on Apr. 26 in the Robertson Room as Dottie Spousta, Nancy Wilson,and Lori Barbieri will speak about their recent mission trip to Uganda. Questions? Contact Joan at or Gretchen at PHOEBE CIRCLE Meetings are the fourth Wednesday of September, November, January, and April. Join us on at 9:30 a.m. on Apr. 26 as we welcome Barbara Scott, coordinator of our Edgewood Village Partnership. Questions? Contact Renate Carey at or Lois Huldin at

THE ART OF TRADITION AT PEOPLES CHURCH PRESCHOOL Did you know that at 66 years old, the nationally accredited Peoples Church Preschool is one of the oldest preschools, not only in the state of

For this event, the teachers collect artwork the children have created between the months of September and January. They then create displays of the children s work by classroom.

Teachers provide opportunities for children to create their art using multiple mediums, three dimensional art with engineering, and group projects.

All work displayed showcases the child s photo, the date, the artistic medium or materials used, and often, written dictation of the child s thoughts while creating it.

6 THE ART OF TRADITION AT PEOPLES CHURCH PRESCHOOL Did you know that at 66 years old, the nationally accredited Peoples Church Preschool is one of the oldest preschools, not only in the state of Michigan, but in the country? While serving families in the community for this long we have developed several traditions over the years. One of those is our annual Art Show and Ice Cream Social. For this event, the teachers collect artwork the children have created between the months of September and January. They then create displays of the children s work by classroom. Each display has a theme such as nature, music or a particular children s author. Teachers provide opportunities for children to create their art using multiple mediums, three dimensional art with engineering, and group projects. Extended family and friends are invited and families are able to meet, greet, network and bond. All work displayed showcases the child s photo, the date, the artistic medium or materials used, and often, written dictation of the child s thoughts while creating it. To make the evening extra special, art patrons are treated to an ice cream buffet with toppings. - Dana Johnson, Preschool Director BE A SUPER HERO THIS SUMMER: VOLUNTEER TO SERVE AT VBS We are looking forward to HERO CENTRAL, our 2017 Vacation Bible School program June at Woldumar Nature Center. Registrations already coming in for campers, Counselors in Training and Crew Leaders! We have a great team of folks leading the area stations and I know the kids are going to have such a great time with them. I am pretty excited to experience my first VBS with The People Church and wondering if anyone else out there wants to join me? We need lots of other helpers during the week though from van drivers, to snack preparation help to eating lunch with the kids. One of the benefits of this is the opportunity for intergenerational interactions. We are such a transit culture, many children do not live near their grandparents and this is a great ministry gift some of you can do is share the gift of your presence with the kids. So, if you want to come and play with us and help out our great team of leaders, please feel free to contact me and you will experience God and faith in a new way. - Julie Bills PCYG PEOPLES CHURCH YOUTH GROUP PCYG has been proud of our confirmands who have been helping to lead worship for the last few months, and of Mia Manolakoudis, who did a wonderful job playing trumpet On March 19. On March 26, students spent their monthly service day handing out meals and coffee to those in need in the Lansing area. - Jacob Gates

2017 Jewelry Sale THE PEOPLES CHURCH FISCHBACH LIBRARY USED BOOKS SALE Saturday, May 20 9:00 a.m.

East Lansing, MI 48823 517.332.5073 ThePeoplesChurch.

Puzzles, Building Blocks, Fine Art, Frames and Much, Much More!

7 2017 Jewelry Sale THE PEOPLES CHURCH FISCHBACH LIBRARY USED BOOKS SALE Saturday, May 20 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday, May 21 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Women of Peoples Church 200 W. Grand River Ave. East Lansing, MI ThePeoplesChurch.com Old, New, Estate, Costume, and Collectible Jewelry, Watches, Purses, Table Linens, Yarn, Quilts. Puzzles, Building Blocks, Fine Art, Frames and Much, Much More! Proceeds benefit WPC community and church projects! All are welcome! Bring your friends! Saturday, May 20 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sunday, May 21 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. THE PEOPLES CHURCH 200 W. Grand River Ave. East Lansing, MI ThePeoplesChurch.com

HOLY WEEK 2017 WORSHIP AT THE PEOPLES CHURCH PALM SUNDAY APRIL 9 8:30 a.m. - Chapel (with Communion) 10:30 a.m. - Sanctuary MAUNDY THURSDAY APRIL 13 6:30 P.M. - Chapel GOOD FRIDAY APRIL 14 6:30 P.M. - Sanctuary (with Choir) EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 16 7:00 a.

8 HOLY WEEK 2017 WORSHIP AT THE PEOPLES CHURCH PALM SUNDAY APRIL 9 8:30 a.m. - Chapel (with Communion) 10:30 a.m. - Sanctuary MAUNDY THURSDAY APRIL 13 6:30 P.M. - Chapel GOOD FRIDAY APRIL 14 6:30 P.M. - Sanctuary (with Choir) EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 16 7:00 a.m. - Chapel 8:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. - Sanctuary (with Communion) 200 W. Grand River Ave. East Lansing MI ThePeoplesChurch.com APRIL 2017 PORTAL

SUNDAY WORSHIP APRIL 23, 2017

SUNDAY WORSHIP APRIL 23, 2017 SUNDAY MORNING 8:30 a.m. Worship Service, Chapel 9:30 a.m. Adult Sunday School Carol Choir Rehearsal Confirmation Class PCYG Bible Exploration Peoples Forum 10:30 a.m. Worship