THE A concert sampling a wide range of great music: Sacred, Opera, Musical Theatre, Art Song, Spirituals, and more.

Transcription

1 The Westminster CHIMES March W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302) Welcome Spring! Join us for THE 2019 AT WESTMINSTER Friday, March 29 8:00 p.m. A concert sampling a wide range of great music: Sacred, Opera, Musical Theatre, Art Song, Spirituals, and more Featuring Hye Eun Choi, soprano Sharon Babcock, mezzo-soprano Jason Berger, tenor Brenton Mattox, bass Christopher Nichols, clarinet The Westminster Choir Paul Fleckenstein, organ and piano The Westminster CHIMES is also available in full color visit

2 CLERGY COLUMN LENT: GIVE UP SOMETHING WEIGHTY Greg Jones, The church in which I was raised placed no special emphasis on the liturgical seasons of Advent and Lent. Or, if it did, our pastor was so low key about these special seasons that it breezed right over my head. (This is quite possible!) personal Lenten practices was when a college friend, an Episcopalian, announced that she was giving up chocolate for Lent. Curious about this peculiar religious undertaking, I dug a little deeper to inquire about the point of forbidding herself the enjoyment of brownies, chocolate cake, and chocolate chip cookies for 40 days. Frankly, it sounded more like a diet than a spiritual practice. She informed me that Lent was about giving up something for God. And not just giving up something, but giving up something that you enjoy something that brings you pleasure. to individual Lenten discipline was not a to me, (confession: I am a chocoholic), but it did not cast God in the most favorable as God is love, the grim message seemed to be: God is opposed to pleasure! In time, I gained a weightier understanding of Lent the 40 day period from Ash Wednesday to Easter (not counting Sundays) and the blessings it can unleash in our lives. But it took a while. Not surprisingly, Resurrection Day was the risen! It was not long before followers of Jesus developed a time of preparation for Easter. It appears that it was initially a two day fast. The two day fast grew into a weeklong fast, and by the fourth century it had morphed into a biblical 40 days of preparation for Easter. Some continue to think of Lent as a dour season in which the church beckons on us to give up something that gives us pleasure so that we can focus more attention on how sinful we are. I m not buying it. Lent is better understood as a time to ponder those things that draw us closer to God and those things that widen the distance between ourselves and God. Of course, by distance I am not implying a physical distance, but rather a spiritual one. We cannot put a physical distance between ourselves and God because God is always as near to us as our breath. However, there are countless ways that we can distance ourselves from God spiritually by W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

3 The Westminster CHIMES blotting God out of our minds, by focusing on destructive thoughts, by picking up harmful habits, by mistreating others Now we are talking about something substantial to give up for Lent! Not simple that prevent us from becoming the beautiful person God intends for us to become. Perhaps you need to focus on why you have a short fuse and during these 40 days you can pray for patience. Perhaps you are quick to stereotype people of another race and you need a constant reminder that each person is a unique child of God. Perhaps you you become more empathetic. Perhaps you need to engage in a spiritual struggle to become more forgiving, generous, honest, courageous, or loyal. This way, you will not only be giving up something you truly need to jettison, but you will also be embracing a virtue that will draw you closer to God. Our starting date is Wednesday, March 6, when we gather for our Ash Wednesday service, and concludes with our glorious Easter celebration. Blessings, DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS Sunday, March 10 2:00 a.m. Remember to turn your clocks FORWARD one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night, March 9! March

4 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven... for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21 The annual Stewardship Campaign is the primary source of funds for our church s operating budget, supporting both our amazing our partners around the globe. But stewardship is more than just proposition! Giving to our church helps each one of us store up treasures where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in or steal Friends, this is the ultimate in long-term thinking! We thank the many faithful stewards listed on the following pages who have made a pledge to support our church in It s never too late to pledge stewardship is not a once a year act of faith! Please go to and complete your pledge. You can also pick up a pledge card on the literature table at church, or contact Colleen Falasco at cfalasco@wpc.org or (302) , ext You can use the online giving feature on our website to make contributions toward your pledge by funds transfer from your bank, either with recurring donations at a frequency of your choice or by submitting individual transfer requests. Visit and click Donate Now in the top right With deep gratitude on behalf of the Stewardship Committee, Craig Stabler, Stewardship Campaign Chair Rich Diver, Stewardship Committee Convener Ty Burns Michael Enderle Bobbe Hoy George Krupanski Barbara Steen Nicole Hughes Greg Jones W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

5 The Westminster CHIMES Rebecca S. Abel Taryn L. & Rich Albert Shawn M. Alexander Susan M. Alexander Nora Andresen Richard E. & Barbara Armen David E. & Janice Atadan Roger W. Atkins Charles W. & Sharon K. Babcock Kenneth S. & Lisa A. Bachman Alfred E. & Elizabeth Bacon William B. & Nancy Barlow Kenneth & Fay D. Barnaby Paul L. & Elizabeth Wells Bechly Donald J. & Janet E. Beddie Karen Beer Linda L. Beyer Paul R. & Amy Bickhart Brenda S. Bilous Lewis S. Black, Jr. Adam C. & Jennifer A. Blackford Herbert S. & Nancy Boden Carol Bova M. Elizabeth & Ronald Bowersock John R. Bowman Charles D. & Turner Broll Sally M. Brooks Dianne M. Browne Donald & Meg Burich K. Ty & Catherine D. Burns Richard B. & Natalie S. Bush Russ & Michelle Butler Sarah L. Buttner Hugh C. & Naomi Campbell Thomas & Martha Carper Ronald F. & Kimberly Carrick John C. & Signy L. Carson James T. Carter & Polly E. Pyle-Carter Robert P. Caughey H. Beatty Chadwick Robert A. & Virginia Chagnon Chad H. & Diane Chandler Eleanor Charles Craig S. Checkel Robert L. & Jeanne T. Checkel Helen B. Christie Edwina Churchill Jeannice H. Clark Barrett J. & Rosemary Cobb Nancy B. Colbert Arthur W. Colbourn Robert C. & Peggy Cole P. Clarkson & Donna Collins Joan M. Connolly Robert E. & Linda B. Cox Travis L. & Emily A. Crawford Joe D. & Patricia Cunning Jean & Robert Custin Joseph E. & Tamra L. Daley Christopher F. & DeVon Daniels Linda Depfer Martha DeWees Peter E. & Karen F. Dietz Donald L. & Joyce L. Dinsel Nancy L. Diver Richard L. Diver Alice W. Donaghy Charles W. Donaghy John A. & Nancy L. Doyle Elizabeth A. Drennen Sara Dubberly Thomas M. Eliason, Jr. Michael J. Enderle William B. Farnham Jerry A. & Barbara M. Fedeler Mary K. Field Jessica J. & Matthew Fischer Paul A. Fleckenstein Jacob R. & Teisha L. Fooks Thomas A. Ford Louis F. & Ann Fortunato Amanda Fox Nicole Fox Kara Lee Francis William A. & Rosemary C. Francis Donald L. & Eleanor J. Furry Krentz Barrington March

6 J. Richard & Mary Kay Haden H. Theodore & Virginia Harcke Carol N. Harris Robert C. & Janis Harrison Denison H. & Wendy Hatch Constance H. Henke Joan E. Henke Jonathan R. & Jamie Hickey Barbara & James K. Higgins Helen C. Higgins Kathrine B. & John Hogan Thomas E. & Carol E. Hogue Richard A. & Laura A. Holmes Matthew M. & Tara Hoopes Barbara A. Hoover Howard F. & Nancy Horne Louis A. & Kristine A. Horton Susan Knoll Horty Richard J. & Mary-beth Howard Barbara M. Hoy Sarah F. Hurlock Walter E. & Rebecca Huzar Charles L. Ingersoll Frederick W. Iobst Emmett S.* & Ann Jacobs Ann W. Jarrett Brock W. & Barbara Jobe Steven C. & Janice B. Johnson Steven R. & Carol L. Johnson J. Patrick & Sandra K. Johnston John F. & Dede Johnston Richard T. Jolly Ruth A. Joslin William Kaye, III Beatrice Kelley Helen H. Kelley Paul & Kathleen Kelly Don M. & Marlys M. Kerr Fernando F. & Lynne A. Kielhorn Fletcher A. & Alexandra W. R. King Robert C. Kline, Sr.* Sylvia B. Kniel Kalmia E. Kniel-Tolbert Johannes R. Krahmer Kevin L. Krick Faith B. Kuehn Cynthia H. Kuespert Catharine F. Lang Mary Laskaris Frederick B. Law, Jr. Mitzi Kiser Law Tara J. Lee Virginia D. Lee Janet Lemons Ralph L. Lewis Suzanne R. & Robert C. Linderman J. Patrick Little Mary Longenecker Jeanette Lonia Arun Loptes & Karen Asenavage Margaret P. Lounsbury Robert H. & Cynthia D. Love Dennie T. & Marsha M. Mah Anne D. Marsh D. Patrick & Nancy Martin Kristen W. & Scott M. Marvel David A. & Jennifer Máthé Richard H. & Jean M. May Daniel F. McAllister & Caroline Bean David C. & Sally McBride Kelly McCulloch Debra E. McCullough Charles S. & Mary Lou McDowell John D. & Penny McFarland Robert A. McKeown Jon R. & Susan McPheeters David V. & Nancy Michener John H. & Eleanor Michener Barbara F. Mitchell Robert A. Moore William R. Moore & Jane E. Palmer Alice H. Morse Mark & Carol Mosher William K. & Ruth M. Nace Frederic F. & Donna M. Nelson Sudie Niesen Thompson *Deceased W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

7 The Westminster CHIMES Roland C. & Mary Lu Pamm Janet C. Patrick Lynne M. Perkins Mary Anne Peters David Keith Pierce & Mary K. Vane Thomas P. Preston & Laura Scanlan Kristine S. Qualls Elinor W. Ranck Julie Reinicker Rassias Margo J. Reign Charles F. & Linda Reinhardt Roger A. & Sandra W. Reinicker Jean H. Reynard Paul R. & Sally M. Robinson Wallace-Roe Carolyn Roland Robin L. Rosser Linda B. & Eric Ruoss Frederick E. & Julia M. Schmitt Ann M. Shadduck W. Thomas & Donna V. Shaw Ronald V. & Carol M. Shelly Constance M. Smith Kim W. & Kathleen Snyder P. M. & Martha V. Snyder Martha M. Spaethling Caroline M. Sparks Wayne & Cora Sparling Jerrold P. & Susan Spilecki David & Jane Stabler R. Craig & Melissa Stabler Steven & Lynnette Stallone Barbara A. Steen Steve & Janet S. Steinwedel Zora R. Stevens Stanford L. & Juanita P. Stevenson Judith L. & Robert D. Stoddard Malcolm H. & Lisa M. Stoddard Barbara H. Stratton & E. Martin Knepper Jane C. Suiter R. Bruce & Mary T. Swayze Henry R. & Martha J. T. Tatnall Diane H. Thomas Joshua A. Thomas PhD & Ricardo R. Suarez J. Stark & Sandra W. Thompson Philip Timon Susan Kelley Timpson Reade Y. Tompson Jennifer K. & John Trickey Erik A. Underhill & Claudia M. Van Lenten L. Thomas Underhill, Jr. Lowell T. & Lois B. Underhill Jan A. T. & Kathryn A. van Amerongen Janet H. Waddell Jennifer Wagner Chris M. Waisanen Helen C. Walker Esther M. Ward Deborah S. Wat Linda & Melvin Watson Dorothy Wauhop Hannah Wayne LaVerne Weaver Bruce W. & Teresa Weber Daniel P. S. Weber Carol & Verne Weidman Daniel L. Weintraub & Nancy A. Fleming Susan W. Weissinger Vincent J. & Mary R. Wemlinger Craig D. Wemmers Sandra & Steven D. Wermus Joseph H. & Kelly Westcott Tenney H. Wheatley, Jr. Marilin M. White Sandra J. White James E. Williams W. Randall & Susan S. Williamson James L. & Pamela J. Wilson Debra J. Wise Kathleen C. & J. Cameron Yorkston David C. & Mary W. Young Linda Youngerman Jill & Zachary Zehner Fredrick C. & Helen M. Zumsteg March

8 WESTMINSTER PROPERTY NEWS If you attended the Annual Meeting, you may have noticed that Westminster has a new projection system in Community Hall. All of us enjoyed brighter images in sharper focus. What a pleasure! (Now the status remember, we need your pledge and ongoing support!) In Classroom 6, similar improvements have occurred, making both spaces even more useful in the years ahead. These upgrades are just two of many projects overseen by the Property Committee. With such a beautiful and expansive facility, serving the congregation as well as the wider community, the physical plant of the church has continual needs. As the Property Committee addresses these needs, we want to keep everyone informed of our progress through a short monthly report in The Chimes. Westminster s Pavilion W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

9 The Westminster CHIMES the second has probably gone unrecognized by all but the most observant members. Thanks to the generosity of so many individuals, the Westminster Capital Campaign was an enormous success. The majority of the funds supplement existing endowments earmarked for the care and from the church s annual operating budget has declined from $100,000 in 2017 to $20,000 in is an extraordinary achievement and will allow the church to manage an ongoing 10-year plan of property needs with minimal impact to the annual budget which is supported by our pledges. The second initiative involves the Pavilion. How many of you noticed that the narrow vertical strips of oak veneer at the corners of the Pavilion walls had bubbled and rippled? Moisture, along with shrinkage, had caused every strip of veneer to buckle. In early January craftsmen repaired the surfaces and applied new layers of solid wood. The Pavilion looks great again, but probably only the most observant had spotted the problem. Addressing the problem now saved the church from a higher repair bill in the future. Many other projects are planned or underway, as we continually seek to maintain this splendid facility that means so much to all of us and to so many throughout the community. We will continue to share news of these initiatives in the months ahead and welcome your feedback. We thank you for your support and extend a huge note of thanks to Paul Crothamel, Director of Facilities and Security, for all that he and others do on a daily basis to care for Westminster Presbyterian Church. Convener Bob Ridout, Charlie Babcock, Gary Bryde, Jim Carter, Bob Chagnon, Denison Hatch, Brock Jobe, and Pat Johnston serve on the Property Committee, with the counsel of esteemed advisors Bill Nace and John McFarland. March

10 WHO ARE OUR CHURCH OFFICERS? ELDERS Class of 2019 Ty Burns Karen Dietz Cathy Higgins Barbara Jobe Kelly McCulloch Mark Mosher Margo Reign Helen Zumsteg Class of 2020 Karen Beer Chad Chandler Rich Diver Peter Gildner Carol Hogue Kent Smith Janet Steinwedel Class of 2021 Sally Buttner Michael Enderle Jan Patrick Todd Piercy Roger Reinicker Barbara Stratton Mary Vane Susan Williamson Moderator: Greg Jones Clerk of Session: Jan Patrick BOARD OF TRUSTEES Class of 2019 Bobbe Hoy Mary Lu Pamm Bruce Weber Dan Weintraub Class of 2020 Gary Bryde Denison Hatch Tom Preston Barbara Steen Class of 2021 Charles Babcock Fred Iobst Brock Jobe Bob Ridout President: Fred Iobst Vice President: Tom Preston Secretary: Dan Weintraub BOARD OF DEACONS Class of 2019 Amy Bickhart Ron Carrick Nancy Diver Teisha Fooks Nicole Fox Luke Máthé Sally McBride Mary Lou McDowell Ann Shadduck Hugh Underhill Lois Underhill Lowell Underhill Gen Wallace-Roe Debbie Wise Class of 2020 Roger Atkins Liz Bacon Kyle Carrick Barry Cobb Laura Holmes Louis Horton Kris Marvel Dan McAllister Debbie McCullough Jennifer Trickey Sandy White Class of 2021 Jennifer Blackford Beatty Chadwick Tara Lee Marsha Mah Blair McConnel Robert Moore Sandie Reinicker Martha Spaethling Lisa Stoddard Josh Thomas Pam White Moderator: Amy Bickhart Vice Moderator: Lisa Stoddard W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

11 The Westminster CHIMES EVERYONE IS A STORYTELLER BE A PART OF MAUNDY THURSDAY THIS YEAR Even though it may seem as though we have just taken down our Christmas trees, the Westminster ByHeart the Maundy Thursday worship service on Thursday, April 18, at 7:00 p.m. Have you ever thought about learning to tell a biblical story by heart? Joining Westminster ByHeart Storytellers as we prepare for the Maundy Thursday Worship Service is the perfect opportunity to try out your storytelling skills. Here is what you can expect. We read the story together (usually during the 10:TEN education hour on the Sundays leading up to Maundy Thursday). We enter it as you would enter any new space senses alive, noticing all we can, sharing what we hear, see, feel, touch, smell, taste, and wonder. We take one word at a time, one phrase, one image, one action, one character, one emotion, one line one thing at a time. We reread the story. We read it out loud. We listen to others in the ensemble and learn from one another. We research, we compare translations, we ask questions. Questions like, Where is God in this story?, Where am I in this story?, What does this story have to say to modern listeners? In this process we familiarize ourselves with the text, and we gradually begin to internalize the story. Learning to tell a story by heart is, at its deepest level, a personal spiritual journey that is later shared in a worship setting with hopes that it might feed the spirits of other believers. If you have ever wanted to be a part of the Westminster ByHeart Storytellers, we would love to have shining more brightly, more hopefully and more lovingly than ever. For more information, please contact Mary-beth Howard (mbhcc73@gmail.com or ) or Shelley Gnade (shelley.gnade@gmail.com or ). Peace, love, joy, and storytelling to you in the New Year. March

12 SPIRITUAL FORMATION FOR ADULTS March :10 a.m. MARCH 3 The Gospel of Mark Presenter: Greg Jones What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? How do his teachings speak to us today? Join us for an in-depth look at the teachings of Jesus, ending of this gospel. We will focus on the last half of the Gospel of Mark, but knowledge of Connecting Women, History and the Clothes That Tell Their Story Presenter: Karen Jessee Join Karen as she combines humor and history on this fashion journey of women s most outrageous silhouettes and a peek underneath them all to see how the culture of the times Antoinette of the 1770s to the British Invasion of the 1970s. A small display and audience participation are all part of the fun. MARCH 10 Preparing for the Public Reading of Scripture Facilitators: Sudie Niesen Thompson How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news! Perhaps (Romans you have 10:15). seen At the Westminster, headlines related we value having to foodborne a diversity illness of voices and contaminated bring good news. leafy That's why we invite congregants to read Scripture aloud in greens. Ever wonder what causes these worship. Whether you are a seasoned Lay Reader or someone recalls and who cases is new of illness to the that public seem reading to be of Scripture, increasingly proclaiming reported? the In this Word class requires we will practice and preparation. discuss contamination This session events is an opportunity and delve into learn the techniques recent Romaine for the lettuce oral interpretation outbreak investigations. of Scripture so that The you last 15 are minutes equipped or to so read of this aloud class with will confidence be and clarity. Whether you would like to hone your devoted to your food safety questions. skills as a Lay Reader or try your hand at reading Scripture in worship, this session is for you! MARCH 10 AND 24 Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise: Making a Meaningful Life Presenter: Janet Steinwedel The media seems to be awash with how to be happy, but is happiness enough? Are we all meant to be happy? Do we even know what makes us happy? More than happiness, most W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

13 The Westminster CHIMES people want lives that have value. How can we truly make a meaningful life for ourselves? Our health, our wealth and our wisdom are important aspects of making a truly good life. Come and share your thoughts and go home with some new insights and ideas for making the most of your one wild and precious life. * *From Summer Day by Mary Oliver MARCH 17 Becoming a Stigma-Free Church Facilitator: Dr. Josh Thomas illness. Mental health challenges impact many who are living with these diseases or love someone who lives with mental illness. As a church community, we can support each other in a way that helps dissolve the stigma associated with mental illness and create a safe lessons from his law enforcement career and apply them to mental health. Dr. Josh Thomas is the Executive Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Delaware (NAMI Delaware). Guatemala Partnership: A New Chapter Presenters: Meg Burich and Chris Hickey Please join our recent Guatemala travelers as they share stories about the new partnership with CEDEPCA, how Westminster s microloan groups are blossoming, and the impact the indigenous communities. The progress of our partnerships is exciting! MARCH 24 Gratitude: The Research behind Living Grateful In recent news and talk shows we hear a lot about gratitude, happiness, and mindfulness. Although, these terms and acts of well-being have existed since the beginning of time. Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop on gratitude. This research-based intervention will examine the etymology of gratitude, and the joys and challenges of daily gratitude practices. This is an interactive workshop which requires brief standing. Facilitator: Sue Linderman White people are unaccustomed to talking about race and its implications in their lives. Yet, at some level, everyone recognizes that racism and prejudice have a profound impact on our communities and our country. We need opportunities to experience the challenges and into the light of day. continued on page 14 March

14 MARCH 24, 31 AND APRIL 7 Staying Connected: How to Use Your Phones and Tablets to Connect with Loved Ones Facilitator: Hugh Underhill This workshop will focus on texting, facetiming, ing and using some social media to communicate with loved ones. Please bring your device with you to the workshop. Note: This workshop will not focus on repairing devices. MARCH 31 What s Happening in Anti-Aging Research? Presenter: Jim Lee Futurist and investment advisor Jim Lee of StratFI will share insights on how and why we ll live longer, look better, and be happier. Join us to learn more about: the factors behind aging and where progress is being made, recent advances in regenerative medicine, and simple things you can do to extend the quality of your life. APRIL 7 Stress: Why Can t I Find My Keys and Why Can t I Touch My Toes? Presenter: Kathleen S. Matt Kathleen S. Matt, PhD, is the dean of the University of Delaware s College of Health Sciences. In this presentation, she will discuss the impact that stress has on the mind and body and share strategies for reducing stress and improving overall health. Come learn how nutrition, mindfulness, and other tools can be used to live your best life. ARE YOU CONSIDERING MEMBERSHIP AT WESTMINSTER? Sundays, March 17 and 31 10:10 a.m. in Classroom 5 Have you been considering membership at Westminster? Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for a two-session series on March 17 and 31 at 10:10 a.m. Membership Exploration series are wonderful opportunities to learn more about Westminster Presbyterian Church, to discover ways to connect with others in the congregation, and to explore ways to serve within and beyond our community. For those who wish to join the Westminster congregation, there will also be an opportunity to do so at the end of the second session. Questions? Contact the Rev. Sudie Niesen Thompson at sniesenthompson@wpc.org or (302) ext W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

15 The Westminster CHIMES WESTMINSTER CHURCH HIDDEN TREASURES eet the wonderful people who dedicate time and energy to lead Christian Education sessions and care for our children and youth on Sundays throughout the year. Nursery (8:45 a.m. 12:15 p.m.): Kristin Wolanski, Beatrice Taylor (Ms. Bea) Preschool Godly Care (9:10 10:00 a.m.): Teisha Fooks, Director First Sunday: Becky Huzar, Chelsea Collins, Jen Máthé Second Sunday: Sylvia Kniel, Kali Kniel, Mary Lou McDowell Third Sunday: Sandy and Steve Wermus, Teisha Fooks Fifth Sunday: Adam and Jenn Blackford, Trina Hogan Youth Assistants: Greg Máthé, Kristian Tolbert, Keira Tolbert, Grace Wermus Preschool (10:10 11:00 a.m.): Jeanne Checkel, Sue Weissinger, Tara Hoopes Godly Play Chandler Sing-to-Praise and Joyful Noise Choirs Assistants: Suzie Hurlock, Bob Moore (10:10 11:00 a.m.): Sue Spilecki (and Rudy), Mike Gnade, Sandy Wermus, Diane Chandler Middle School (10:10 11:00 a.m.): Meg Burich, Walt Huzar, Susan Williamson 180 Youth Ministry (5:00 7:00 p.m. on Sunday evenings): Tommy Neilson, Josh Cox, Emily Knepper, Molly McPheeters, Chris Hickey Summer Sunday School (10:10 11:00 a.m.): Volunteers sign up for each summer Sunday Vacation Bible School (July 22 26): Robin Rosser, Director, and many teachers and helpers Thank you to all of these generous people for making it possible to continually strengthen our Christian Education programs for youth and children who come to Westminster Church. March

16 COALITION FOR SMART JUSTICE The United States incarcerates its citizens at a higher rate than any other country in the world. We are home to 5% of the world s population yet have 25% of the world s prisoners. Our incarceration rate has increased more than 700% since 1970 as our criminal justice culture moved toward maximizing the number of people sent to prison. Delaware imprisons people at a rate higher than the national average and higher than any of our neighboring states. This is a crisis for the individuals involved, for their families, for the local, state and federal entities that bear the cost burden and, by extension, the taxpayers. Launched in 2018, the Delaware Coalition for Smart Justice is a group of organizations and individuals who advocate for a criminal justice system that fosters public safety by reducing mass incarceration, recidivism and racial disparities. It uses public education, community organizing and grass roots advocacy to challenge the system and create change individuals, families and communities. Members include: ACLU of Delaware, Delaware Center for Justice, League of Women Voters Delaware, Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League, Pacem in Terris, Campaign for Smart Justice Delaware, Coalition to Dismantle the New Jim Crow, Delaware Civil Rights Coalition, Delaware United, H.E.A.D.S. U.P. in the 302, NAACP Delaware State Conference, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Network Delaware and the Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice Legislative Priorities by requiring judges to do an ability to pay analysis, eliminate driver s license revocation and eliminate the use of warrants for failure to pay. Revise drug statutes to remove location-based enhancements for all drug crimes, change the Allow concurrent sentencing for all criminal laws instead of requiring sentences for certain cases with more than one charge to run consecutively W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

17 The Westminster CHIMES to allow for release of individuals who are not a and ill inmates. Expand second chances through an expungement bill that will reform the availability of expungement for adults. Expand and improve criminal justice data transparency on issues such as the imposition of Westminster s Peace and Justice Work Group is exploring opportunities to work with the Coalition to If you have questions or comments or would like to get involved, please contact any member of our work group we d be happy to talk with you! WPC VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2019 EXPLORE WHERE GOD S POWER CAN TAKE YOU Preschool to rising 6th graders Daily Bible stories with music, games, crafts, snack time. Leaders and teen helpers needed. For information or to volunteer, contact Robin Rosser (rlrosser@outlook.com). March

18 THE SHIP IS ON ITS WAY hearty thank you to generous Westminster A members who, over the week of January 20, donated hundreds of bags of clothing, blankets, school supplies and personal hygiene items to Narenj Tree Foundation. The mission of the Foundation is to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to displaced Syrian communities. Westminster members valued donations will give refugees renewed strength despite overwhelming obstacles in their journey. The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) states that more than 13 million Syrians have been displaced due to the civil war, now in its eighth year. Clothing and other essential supplies are donated, collected and packed monthly in Camilla Jones and Mary Vane sort the many donations 40-foot containers. Narenj Tree, from their warehouse in Norristown, Pennsylvania, has now shipped up to $7,000 per container, therefore, there is also pressing need for direct monetary donations. Once in Syria, donation centers resemble retail storefronts to preserve the dignity of the Syrians receiving this life sustaining assistance. Using vouchers, people select what they need. Other items are distributed directly into the refugee camps. Narenj Tree additionally supports an orphanage for special needs Syrian children assist these populations. Caring hearts are essential to rebuilding the lives of tens of thousands of refugees. Please remember these victims of war in your prayers, that there may be a peaceful resolution to the war and a successful reconciliation of opposing groups. Supporters and volunteers of the collection to Narenj Tree Foundation, including Westminster members Mary Vane second from right) To help those who are forgotten become unforgettable, visit or on Facebook at W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

19 The Westminster CHIMES MEALS ON WHEELS MAKE SOMEONE S DAY! City Fare Meals on Wheels is a wonderful organization that has operated in Wilmington since It provides hot, nourishing meals to hundreds of housebound elderly and disabled people in New Castle County. You can imagine how many volunteers are needed for this to succeed, so I m hoping we can increase our participation with this life-enhancing ministry. The time commitment is approximately 90 minutes starting about 11:00 a.m. once because Meals on Wheels is very accommodating with everyone s schedules, they permanent volunteer. From my personal experience I have found this to be a very rewarding experience, with minimal time commitment. I hope you ll consider volunteering for this extremely worthwhile outreach to homebound members of our community. If you re ready to volunteer or if you d like more information, please contact Melissa at (610) or mojess@comcast.net. Thank you! March

20 GUATEMALA PARTNERSHIP: THE TIDE IS RAISING ALL SHIPS by Chris Hickey It has been a transformative year for the New Castle Presbytery (NCP), the Association of Mam Christian Women for Development, and CEDEPCA largely due to the creation of Ignite. There is an aphorism that suggests, A rising tide lifts all boats. In this case, Ignite has lifted up all three groups in this partnership as they explore and grow together. Ignite is responsible for granting funds (formerly held in Speer Trust and West Legacy) to congregations and organizations within NCP with the intention of sparking new, creative, bold, and inspired missional partnerships in our communities and abroad. In that same invited a Presbytery-wide leadership team to travel with them to Guatemala in January Other trip members included: Jessie MacMillan (Connectional Presbyter), Lynette Kenton (NCP Treasurer), Kim Jackson (Pastor, Dover), Terry Dougherty (Pastor, Ocean View, Ignite Board), Edwin Estevez (Pastor, Riverfront & Grace Methodist, Ignite Board), Julius Jackson (Elder, Community, Ignite Board), Meg Burich (Elder, Westminster), and Chris Hickey (Youth Leader, Westminster). One of the highlights of the trip was the agreement signing with CEDEPCA. After 20 years of traveling and working together, NCP and CEDEPCA felt called to enter into a formal three-year and to sending at least one delegation to visit Guatemala annually. In turn, CEDEPCA promises to facilitate our intercultural encounters and send at least one delegate to visit us in the United States each year. Both groups will continue to pray for each other and work together on mutual projects. You can watch the agreement signing ceremony here: W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

21 The Westminster CHIMES After our time at the CEDEPCA headquarters in Guatemala City, we traveled to San Juan Ostuncalco to visit the women of the Association of Mam Christian Women for Development. We met with various NCP-sponsored microloan groups to see their progress and to enjoy partnerships and participating in bible studies where we recognized that we are all children of God and must have faith while being open to God s help. These microloan groups showcased their reforestation projects and family gardens. It quickly became clear that these women are the most vulnerable to climate change. Last year, there were hailstorms and inconsistent Other groups gave us tours of their impressive inventory of livestock to serve us an afternoon feast! Overall, it was inspiring to see such a continued demand for this successful program, which continues to make such a lasting impact on the lives of these women. We also had a dinner and a morning meeting with the Board of Directors of the Association. We were able to personally congratulate them on all their hard work during Our favorite the number exceeds what can be stated with that limit. (Read the entire four-page report to NCP here: Some projects in 2018 included: family gardens, stoves, VIP Association, and prayer partnerships. Thanks to the generosity of Westminster members, we were able Committee also provided funds for product-monitoring by the women, to insure that the stoves, This partnership is open to all churches in New Castle Presbytery. Please join us! To learn more about ) or Cathy Higgins (cathy-higgins@comcast.net) or check out wpcguatemala.wordpress.com. March

22 WANT TO MAKE A BIG REDUCTION IN YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT? Did you know that meat consumption creates more global greenhouse gas emissions than cars? And that the animals are also a large contributor to water pollution? That means that the food choices we make, particularly switching to plant-based meals, can have a huge impact on the environment. By some calculations, skipping one hamburger is equivalent to eliminating 200 miles of driving! Lent gives us a good time to think about our food selections and their impact. On March 6, at the supper after the Ash Wednesday service, there will be an opportunity to choose yummy vegetarian soups. And on April 3, the Earth Care Task Force will host a delicious plant-based dinner followed by a presentation by a Master Food Educator from the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension entitled Vegetarian and Vegan Diets: Fact and Fiction. There will be recipes to take home! see you at these events! W. 13th Street Wilmington, DE (302)

23 The Westminster CHIMES FLYING SOLO ACTIVITIES FOR MARCH We are a group of singles who meet to support each other in friendship, through social activities and fellowship. All are welcome to join us, and we are always looking for new participants. Curious about Flying Solo? Contact Bill Kaye at billkaye3@verizon.net. Sunday Brunch Sunday of the month at Catherine Rooney s in Trolley Square at 11:15 a.m. Upcoming brunch dates are March 3 and 17. March 29 (Friday) Dinner at 5:00 p.m., followed by a spring concert at Westminster (7:00 p.m.) with our own Paul Fleckenstein, soloists and choir. Friday Night Dinners (non brunch weekends) Generally the second and fourth Friday of each month, we gather for dinner at 6:00 p.m. at various restaurants. Locations to be determined. Contact Cathy Lang at cathylang@wpc.org for information. This month s dinners are on March 8 and March 22. RECENT DEATHS Those Who Have Joined the Church Triumphant We remember the families of those will be comforted in their loss and be assured that their loved ones have Emmett S. Jacobs March 17, 1926 December 21, 2018 Edward R. Hagopian October 29, 1930 December 24, 2018 Elizabeth Uhlinger September 10, 1919 January 2019 Robert C. Kline, Sr. May 27, 1927 January 26, 2019 March

24 PAID 1502 West 13th Street Wilmington, DE Pastors The Rev. Dr. Gregory K. Jones The Rev. Sudie Niesen Thompson The Rev. Jill Getty WPC Director of Marketing Communications Nicole Hughes Graphic Design by Trellist Marketing & Technology Next Chimes Deadline: Monday, March 11 at 11:00 a.m. For the April 2019 Issue Submissions can be made at ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE AND DINNER Wednesday, March 6 6:00 p.m. Lent the 40 day season during which we prepare for Easter begins Wednesday, March 6. Please join us as we mark the beginning of the Lenten journey with our Ash Wednesday meditative service includes a reminder of our mortality with the imposition of ashes on our foreheads. There will be a soup supper immediately following worship in Community Hall.