WESTERN SPIRE. May Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.

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1 WESTERN SPIRE May 2018 Beloved, Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. ~1 John 4:7 When we read through the Gospel of John, or any of John s letters, this term of affection, beloved comes up again and again. It is a word that I have read countless times, there is even a song from my Camp days that is playing through my head right now that uses the words of this verse. Yet I wonder at its meaning. Beloved: noun: dearly loved: dear to the heart. Synonyms: darling, cherished, dear, favored, favorite, precious, special. Two things strike me in this definition and the following synonyms. First, the relationship between John and the recipients of his letters must have been very profound. He is writing to a community of believers, the beloved community of faith, and for him to use such a strong word indicates his deep, passionate, all-consuming love in Christ for them. Second, this word cannot really be read in the passive; it is really quite active. Beloved, let us love one another! This is not a suggestion, but rather a direct appeal- you must love one another! And you must do so with the all-encompassing love of God. Three years ago, I was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament. In the ordination service, the gathered ministers and elders came together around me to lay hands on me. This was an awesome moment. It was a heavy moment, as all these hands pressed down upon me. A good friend whispered to me, it s supposed to feel heavy. Second, I could feel the presence of God in that moment, making itself known to us, his beloved community. I think of the awesome weight of those hands, as well as the overwhelming sense of God in that moment often. When we are called to be followers of Jesus, it is an awesome responsibility, yet also quite heavy. Yes, we are individually called and gifted for the good work which we do, but we do well to remember that it is only when we do it together that we are able to do it in a sustainable way. What I mean is that on our own, the weight becomes too much to bear. We too easily burn out, give up, throw in the towel. Rather, the joy that comes through our common life, our communal work together, is overwhelming. It is beloved. In Christ, Pastor Kyle

2 Preaching and Worship May 2018 May 6, 2018 Sixth Sunday of Easter No Sunday School Reader: Sandy McMenamin Toddler Room: Maxine & Kelly Babcock Usher: Janet Manktelow May 13, 2018 Seventh Sunday of Easter Communion Sunday Mother s Day Reader: Peter Fadden Toddler Room: Sue Pringle Communion Elders: Pat & Dave Pinkney Usher: Janet Manktelow May 20, 2018 Reader: Children s Program Toddler Room: Jan Taylor Pentecost Youth Led Service Last day of Sunday School Red Wings Game 1:05 pm Usher: Janet Manktelow May 27, 2018 Reader: Sandy Kelly Toddler Room: Irene Fadden Trinity Sunday Usher: Janet Manktelow The deadline for the next SPIRE is Tuesday, May 16th, Thank you! 2

3 Share a Meal During the 7 Sundays of Easter, the Generosity Team invites members to bring ingredients for 7 meals. Each week bring in the ingredients for the meal in a plastic bag. The meal will be given to the Food Pantry right in the same bag. The bag will be given to a family in addition to the food groups they can choose. Ruth Dantz told me she gave the meals to families as they came to the food pantry. One grandmother who has her son and 2 grandchildren in her home was given a meal and the grandmother was so pleased and grateful for the extra meal she was able to get at the food pantry. We have 3 Sundays left to collect the meals. Here are suggestions for each meal On May 6: Pizza: Round premade crust (Boboli), pizza sauce, grated cheese, pepperoni, bag of mozzarella cheese On May 13: Spaghetti: spaghetti, sauce, grated cheese, package of frozen ground meat, frozen garlic bread, vegetable, fruit, dessert On May 20: Pancake Breakfast: pancake mix (just add water mix), frozen sausage, cooking spray, syrup, fruit Please put the frozen meat in the freezer on Sunday. Someone will meet you in the kitchen, so your meat can be given to the family with your bagged meal. 3

4 Grace House Dear Community Friend, I am writing to share an update concerning Grace House, a community outreach hosted by Zion Episcopal Church. Grace house will be an outreach to the marginalized families and individuals who live in Palmyra and the neighboring communities in the western end of Wayne County. All who come will be served with dignity and confidentiality. Our plan is to be open four days a week, Monday through Thursday, for two hours each day. Monday and Wednesday, we will be open from 6-8 PM to coincide with the Palmyra-Macedon Food Pantry. Tuesday s hours will be from 10 am-12 and Thursday will be from 3-5 PM. We will need many volunteers for this ministry to be a success. We will need Grace ministers who will interview the recipient and be a caring listener. Everyone will receive training for this ministry. We will be trained by the Hope House (Webster) staff. We will need people to sort and hang clothing. We are now accepting clothes for ALL ages. The clothing must be clean, with no holes, rips, or stains. We will also accept clean linens for the bedroom and bath. All household items must be in working condition. Volunteers will be expected to work at least one two-hour shift a week. We also need volunteers who can pick up donated items to be stored in the garage. There are tasks for handymen (and women). This is a community project, and we need volunteers. If you have a desire to work with the families of our community, please contact one of the people at the end of this letter. Our goal is to be open by this summer. Training for volunteers will be this spring. If you have any interest or questions, please contact us. Thank you, Diane Peters Grace House Director Peter Henry Grace House Director Barb Hudak Grace House Director Pastor Susan Kohlmeier

5 Thank You From ~ Jody I would like to Personally Thank each one of You Who Helped at the Spring Rummage Sale, but I am not sure I would connect with you all. So, I will Thank all of You together. There were many ways to help and each job was filled with loving and supporting people. And each one of you was a Treasure to work with. I was so thrilled to reach over $1,600 for my first sale. Now we will set a goal to beat the record sale last Spring. This is Not a one-person task, so It was truly a Successful Sale because of You. Thank You All again! Help Wanted! We are seeking 3-5 committed individuals who would be interested in being small group Bible and Discussion Leaders. Our desire is to increase the availability of opportunities for members of the congregation to study the Bible and to share together in fellowship without making more demands on the time of those who already lead. So, is it you?! No experience is necessary, and we will provide everything you need! Details are still coming together, but if you feel you might be interested, please speak to Pastor Kyle or Pastor Bob. Thank you! 5

6 Dear Western Presbyterian Mission Team: Congratulations! You are the recipients of this year s Community Partners for Education award. The Palmyra-Macedon Board of Education would like to recognize you at the 29 th Annual Board of Education Awards ceremony scheduled to take place on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, in the high school performing arts center. I encourage you to invite family members and friends to also attend, so they may share in this special recognition. We will also be honoring this year s recipients of the Student of the Year and Teacher of the Year from each building, Special Recognition, Years of Service, and Friend of Education awards. Our program will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by a reception in the high school cafeteria. Sincerely, Sharon Lang, President Palmyra-Macedon Board of Education The Western Presbyterian Church Mission Team would like to extend an invitation to the whole congregation to attend this event. As church members, you are all part of Western s mission in the community. Hope you all will come to the Pal-Mac High School on Tuesday May 8 th at 6:30 p.m. and help us celebrate! The Good Neighbor Fund Without You Have you ever considered what the Good Neighbor Fund could do without you? Please take a moment to reflect on this: During the first three months of WITHOUT YOU WITHOUT YOU WITHOUT YOU WITHOUT YOU WITHOUT YOU WITHOUT YOU 14 families would not have received assistance 23 adults and 24 children would not have received assistance 11 families might have been evicted for non-payment of rent 1 family would have had their electricity shut off 1 family would be living without water due to frozen pipes 1 family would have lost their transportation because of needed repairs In short, the Good Neighbor Fund cannot exist WITHOUT YOU and your continued support as we strive to be the good neighbors Christ told us to be. Since we have a matching grant from the Bullis Fund for 2018, every dollar you give is worth two dollars to the Good Neighbor Fund. Please consider investing in your neighbors. 6

7 Baseball Trip Hi all! It's Spring again. The Fellowship Team is planning a trip to a Red Wings game on May 20 th at 1:05 pm. Please sign up outside Fellowship Hall. There are spaces to note if you need a ride or are willing to give someone a ride. We'll be leaving from the church parking lot about 12:00 pm. Please see Ray Marr for more details and tickets. On another note, please circle the date on your calendars for the church picnic on June 3rd. Please bring a dish to pass and table service. Fellowship will be providing meats, drinks, and dessert. We will be eating in Fellowship Hall, so weather will not be a factor. 7

8 Your Property Team invites you to JOIN US! For our spring clean-up on May 12 th from 8:30 am - noon (rain date May 19th) Bring your yard work gear (tools labeled with your name, gloves) and invite a friend for fun and fellowship. Want to donate supplies, materials, or child care? Check out the sign-up sheet in Fellowship Hall. Everyone can play a part! We are blessed to have this facility. Help us maintain, beautify, and be a welcoming Christian presence! Women s Gathering on May 2 nd 11:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall Come one! Come all! We ll be folding 200 th Anniversary booklets for the Ice Cream Social 8

9 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL DONATION WISH LIST jump-ropes 10-foot length of soft rope blue bedsheet or piece of cloth to represent the ocean fishing nets tarps sand resealable plastic bags stapler individually wrapped Lifesavers beach balls red glow sticks gel food coloring baking soda vinegar Dawn dish detergent old towels white butcher paper paper towels drinking cups small rubber bands wooden spring-loaded clothespins 1-inch heart stickers medium-size toy sand pails with shovels fun, colorful drinking straws gallon-size resealable plastic bags small blankets plastic coins several fancy unbreakable plates pieces of burlap tablecloth plastic fruit plastic loaf of bread yellow modeling dough several rolling pins several brooms small popcorn boxes plastic sword red and yellow cellophane plastic greenery small white indoor/outdoor lights 3 crosses built from carpet tubes black bedsheet straw beach mat Glue Dots large paper clips masking tape medium or large buckets pool noodles large roll of brightly colored duct tape extra-long, sturdy ropes plastic wading pools beach towels plastic laundry baskets clear or very light-colored marbles plastic gallon-size jugs with handles tennis balls thick red ribbon 1- or 2-inch-thick Styrofoam sheets ping-pong balls paper grocery bags 10-pound bag of birdseed fishing line feather dusters cotton balls shredded green paper stuffed animal lion, bear, or other predator whole coconuts child-sized inflatable swim rings beanbags backpacks plastic toy boats sticky notes brown paper lunch bags index cards stickers sequins glitter glue pens 9

10 National Day of Thursday, May 3, 2018 Western Presbyterian Church 101 East Main Street, Palmyra NY Sanctuary open throughout the day for personal prayer and meditation 2018 Theme **Pray for America** #prayforunity Nationaldayofprayer.org Prayer Prayer Service at 7pm. All are welcome. Ephesians 4:3 Making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of PEACE. 10

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12 The prayer concerns listed are current as of 04/29/18. Please remember that all prayer requests are automatically removed from the list after one month unless the giver specifically requests continuation. Our Prayer Concerns Grieving: Family & Friends of Marie Harriott (requested by Edie Chapman) Family & Friends of Shirley Bassage (requested by the Deacons) Family & Friends of Harold Hughes (requested by Gary Hughes & family) Serving in Armed Forces: (Please contact church office if no longer serving) Jeffrey Bavis, Kyle Chapman, Tim Henderson, Jake Hewitt, Adam Hill, Sarah Jagger, Joe Krebbeks, Patrick Magno, Brandon Maxwell, D.J. Phee-Henderson, Adam Stephens, Adam VanNatta, Logan Warner, Shod Williams Expectant Mothers: Nicki Bush and husband Peter are expecting a baby due in late September. Peter is the son of Bill and Sara Bush. Congratulations: Congratulations to Stephani and Jim Beato on the birth of their son James Raymond on 3/30/18, weighing in at 9 lbs. 13 oz. and 21 in. long. He was welcomed home by big sister Emari and is also the grandson of Muffie and Ray Beato. Others for whom prayers have been requested: All caregivers, All victims of violence, hatred and hunger, Gene Bassage, James Callerame, Lou Callerame, Doris Coffman, Kathy Cooper, Georgeanne Creed, LaVern DeRuyter, Barb Gabriel, Robert Griswold, Howard & Mary Hoad, Kurt Luechauer, Sue Leonard, Jacob McFarlane, Luke Medina, Tom & Nancy Metcalfe, Gene & Mary Ann Niemiec, Andrew Newmark, Becky Strause, Mark Trombino, Bertie Underwood, Marcia White, Grace Williams, Ken Zook Please pray for those who wish to remain anonymous as they, too, need our prayers. Others for whom we continue to pray: Matthew Barbalato, Barbara Bucknam, Tracy D Arduini, Harold M. Delhagen, Jennifer Lapp, Chris Laudise, Uncle Lee, Bonnie Olson, Christie Romano, Andy Sloan, Bonnie Stevens, Fran Storm Congregation members in nursing homes or shut-in: Peg Eskild, Jamie Hemmings, Alice Marks, Bev Mouton Please remember that all prayer requests are automatically removed from the list after one month unless the giver specifically requests continuation. In the event of an emergency for which prayer is requested, please call Deacon Sandy Home smcmenamin@rochester.rr.com You may also call the church office to communicate your request through the Deacons Emergency Prayer Chain. Your Property Team would like to remind you that we have a monthly point person on call. If you spot an urgent issue that needs attending, please contact the appropriate person rather than the person you may have reached out to in the past. Month Name Home Phone Cell Phone Address May Gary glaberge@rochester.rr.com LaBerge Thank you! We appreciate all the members of our congregation being eyes and ears for our facility. 12

13 May Toddler Schedule Below is the Schedule for staffing of the Toddler Room during the 10:00 AM Sunday morning service. Thank you in advance for your extremely important mission of providing infant and toddler care. Please arrive about minutes early. If you find you are not available on your assigned date, please find a replacement. Many, Many thanks! The Nursery is located on the second floor, room # 5 South Side - Snack will be in the cupboard and a Vacuum will be hanging around. Age appropriate toys will be available as well as a changing table. Please let Jody know when we need to refill the snacks Once again, Thank -You for your help! 05/06/18 Maxine & Kelly Babcock /13/18 Sue Pringle /20/18 Jan Taylor /27/18 Irene Fadden /03/18 Ruth Dantz /10/18 Jody Pruitt /17/18 Nancy Talma /24/18 Logan & Kelly Babcock /01/18 Carol and Andy Sloan Spring is Here, Summer around the corner. Please check your Summer Calendars and be sure to find a substitute if you will be away on your Sunday. Thanks 07/08/18 Katie Michell /15/18 Sue Leonard /22/18 Rena Haigh *If anyone or anyone you know is interested in joining the team in providing infant and toddler care during the 10:00am service please contact Jody Pruitt, we would love to have you! Also, if you are no longer able to help please let Jody know as well. Thanks ~ the CE Team Jody Pruitt jody.pruitt@gmail.com 13

14 HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAPPY ANNIVERSARY May 1 Courtney Marr May 1 David & Patti Squier May 3 Emily McFarlane May 5 Thomas & Alicia Lynch May 5 Amanda Talma May 6 Scott & Wendi Gagliano May 8 James McFarlane May 11 James & Daphne Hemmings May 8 William Roland May 16 David & Elizabeth Lewis May 9 Noah Scribner May 17 Terrence & Betsy Goodwin May 10 Cimberly McFarlane May 21 William & Carolyn Roland May 11 Brendon Trapiss May 30 Peter & Irene Fadden May 11 Catherine Quigley May 15 Susan Moak May 19 Cherokee Lane May 22 Michael Pinkney May 23 Deborah Trombino May 24 Philip Opdycke May 31 John Dobson IV If you are an active member and we have missed your birthday or anniversary, please contact the office at so we can add it to our list next time. If your anniversary or birthday is missing, it means it was not in the Data Base, which is where we get the list. 14

15 MAY 2018 SUN. MON. TUES. WED. THURS. FRI. SAT pm Hughes 2 11 am to 1 pm FH Women s Gathering 3 National Day of Prayer 4 5 Reception FH 1 pm Mission/Social Concerns 2 pm Deacons 7 pm Christian Ed. Sanctuary Open 7 pm Service 6 Family Promise presentation after worship 13 Mother s Day Communion Sunday 7 2:30 pm Select Choir Rehearsal 4:30 pm CTNS Board 7 pm Fellowship 8 7 pm Worship SPIRE DEADLINE 7 pm Generosity Team 9 7 pm Recital Select Choir FH 16 6:30 pm Property 10 6 pm Bell Choir 7 pm Choir 7 pm 200 th Committee 17 6 pm Bell Choir 7 pm Choir :30 am to Noon Spring Clean Up 2-4 pm Ice Cream Social Bed City Day-Family Promise Fundraiser in Newark Rain Date Spring Clean Up 20 Pentecost Youth Led Service Last day of Sunday School 1:05 pm Red Wing s Game Memorial Day Office Closed pm Session 23 9 am to Noon CTNS Graduation 24 9 am to Noon CTNS Graduation 6 pm Bell Choir 7 pm Choir pm Bell Choir 7 pm Choir

16 JUNE 2018 SUN. MON. TUES. WED. THURS. FRI. SAT Church Picnic Mostly Music Sunday 2 nd Grade Bibles 10 Communion Sunday Last Choir Sunday 4 4:30 pm CTNS Board 7 pm Fellowship 5 2 pm Deacons pm King s Daughters FH & Kit. 7 pm Worship 6 1 pm Mission/Social Concerns 7 6 pm Bell Choir 7 pm Choir LECC Concert 4 pm 17 Father s Day 18 Clean the kitchen day 19 SPIRE DEADLINE 20 6:30 pm Property pm Session am to 6 pm FH Bridal Shower 16