PARKMAN CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

Transcription

1 PARKMAN CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH MADISON ROAD P.O. BOX 655 P ARKMAN, OH PARKMANCHURCH@WINDSTREAM.NET O N THE WEB: PARKMANCHURCH.COM 9:00AM - S UNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES 10:00AM - FELLOWSHIP TIME 10:30AM - WORSHIP SERVICE WILL COLEY, PASTOR Hello Parkman, It is harvest time A time to reap what has been sown in the past year, a time to celebrate the gifts we have been blessed with, and a time to remember what the Lord has done for us over the course of the year. It is a joyous time and one celebrated for millennia by the followers of God. For the Jewish people throughout history it is a time of year when they celebrate Yom Kippur, and five days later the Festival of Sukkot begins. Sukkot is the Festival of booths. During this time they would build temporary dwellings out of branches, twigs, leaves, or whatever they could find as a remembrance of the 40 year period when the children of Israel were traveling through the desert, living in temporary shelters. Christians don t normally have a celebration during the month of October unless you are of the reformed background. For them October 31 st is known as Reformation day. It is a day to remember what the reformation did for us. It reminds us, like the Jewish people being reminded of the 40 years in the desert, of the greatest move of God s Spirit since the days of the Apostles. It reminds us of when the average person couldn t have the Word of God in their hands, or in their language for that matter, and how God moved Luther and the Reformers to push for Sola Scriptura, the Scriptures alone. Harvest time is a blessing for us all. For those of you who make a living on a farm, it is a reminder of how great our God is, and how much we own Him for the blessings He has given us. For those of us who aren t farmers, we should show appreciation to those who have received the call to farm, they provide food for us. But in a more real way, it is a time to remember, all of us, the blessings we have been given by the Lord, food, shelter, and the freedom to have the scriptures in our hands, the ability for us all to turn to God and read His word, but more importantly, a time to remember all that the Lord has done for us throughout the year. As we walk through the life of Abraham this fall the challenge is for us to see the blessing God has bestowed on all His followers. His followers all throughout history have been people just like you and I, people who didn t get it, people none of us would have chosen to be the forefathers of our faith, which is why they are blessings in disguise. The more we read God s word, the more we understand God s plan, the more we see that we don t have to be perfect to be a follower of God, in fact we can be downright sinful, because in the end, God is doing the work. All we are required to do is follow, which does involve some refining, but God does it. He does it through the reading of His word, He does it through prayer, He does it through the community of believers that we worship with, He does it through nature, and He does it through circumstances. Let us all take time this fall to appreciate what the Lord has done for us. But more importantly, let us all take time this fall to seek the Lord with all we have, desiring of the Lord to shape us into the community of believers He desires us to be, so we can go out and plant the seed and be harvesters of the Lord. God Bless Pastor Will

2 September 22, 2015 Administrative Council Meeting Clerk's Report The Administrative Council met on September 22, 2015 in the old sanctuary with the following present: Pastor Will Coley, Connie Czacherski, Eugene Mach, Denise Toth, Kathy Imhof, Dave Smith, Denise Villers, Dennis and Lily Coz, Tom Gotham, Fred and Rosie Ogrinc, and Diane Beeman Dennis Coz called the meeting to order at 7:30 and Fred Ogrinc opened with prayer. Minutes from the August 25, 2015 meeting were read and approved. Treasurer's Report - Dave Smith reported the Treasurer's report shows a checking account balance of $1, as of July 31, 2015 after receipts and transfers of $26, and checks and transfers in the amount of $11, leaving a balance of $16, as of August 31, The savings account had a beginning and end balance of $17, Facilities Ministry - Kathy Imhof thanked everyone for the help on September 19. The roof is completed along with slats replaced in the steeple and some siding repairs. The fence at the parsonage is also complete and dishwasher installed. Contacted T&T Cleaning regarding buffing the floors again including the kitchen and youth room. The clothes bin from St. Pauly Textile Inc is to be installed on Sept 29; Kathy and Rosie to monitor the bin weekly to make sure there are no bags too close to the door. Elder's Report Pastor Will reported he meets with the elders every other week discussing the church and critiquing Pastor s sermons. Continuing study of the book Spiritual Healthy Church and how to challenge ourselves to fulfill the great commission of spreading the gospel. Also wanting to make sure the right people are in the right positions so they don t burn themselves out. Deacon's Report Fred Ogrinc reported that the deacons will be meeting Sunday. Drafting policies for food cupboard, gas cards, providing transportation, etc. Looking at other options for transportation other than gas cards for example using taxi services or Geauga transit. Denise Toth mentioned a shuttle in conjunction with Community Care and Geauga hospitals free of charge to take people to doctor s appointments. Denise will get more information. As a church, we want to help people without taxing the church. Ministry Placement No report Outreach Eugene Mach reported there will be a veterans dinner on November 8 th and the Pie Brigade the week before Thanksgiving. Movie night will be the third Friday of October accepting requests for what movie to show. Discussion of Briar Hill and possibly letting another congregation take this over in January. It is difficult to find people interested or willing to lead the service. Worship - Denise Toth reported Children s church volunteers are in place through the beginning of November along with assistants for some Sundays. Pastor Will would like to set up a meeting with Children s Church volunteers. Fellowship - Denise Villers reported the Progressive Dinner was successful. The next activity is planned for Sunday, October 25 family bowling followed by Hot Dog Shop. Mentioned possibility of a Fondue night sometime over the winter. Women's Fellowship - Denise Villers reported they met at home of Cherie Villers on September 14 and discussed the fall baking. It was decided not to do it this year. It is difficult to get enough help and the ladies have decided to take a break. Parkman Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a trick or treat event with snacks and activities at the Parkman Community House on October 31. Outreach funds are available to purchase candy if someone would like to represent the church. Annual Election Day Turkey Dinner will be held at the church. Discipleship New Sunday school class started on September 20. A book study (without the book) will be held on Thursday evenings. Pastor Will can order the books if people are interested in having a copy of their own. The study will be on discipleship and how we go about spreading the gospel and witnessing to people. Pastor's Report Pastor Will reported Go Day is weekend of October 18. Talking with other pastors about having signs in front of all churches that will be participating to help spark interest. Still working on trying to coordinate a softball game with other churches. Would still like to use the book Spiritual Healthy Church for Sunday school or weeknight study looking at where we are strong in faith as well as where we may be weak in faith. Discussing holding a membership class in January or February start posting information in November. Other possible upcoming items seminar on Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage, class or Grief Share possibly over the holidays as that s the most difficult time for those who have lost loved ones. Pastor continues to meet with members of congregation and other pastors in the area. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 pm. Those in attendance circled for prayer. Pastor Will Coley closed in prayer. Respectfully submitted, Diane Beeman, Clerk 2

3 Genesis 17:7 Abraham; proof that God keeps His promises 10/4 - Genesis 16:1-15 Taking things into his own hands 10/11 - Genesis 17:1-25 New Names 10/18 - Genesis 18:1-15 God keeps His promises 10/25 - Genesis 20:1-17 Again With the Lies I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you. We have been looking at Abram s life. Hopefully by now I have shattered your beliefs that Abraham was a righteous man in and of himself. He was a liar, he was an idolater, and we will find out this coming month that he slept with someone who wasn t his wife, as well as lied again. The importance of the life of Abraham is three-fold. The first point is that God is the one who does the work and keeps his promises. This is so important for us to remember. The second point is that Abraham is no different than we are. For us to think we have to be holy, or to get it 100% is wrong, Abraham walked with the Lord for 25 years before the promise of the child came to fruition and he failed all along the way. But the third point, and this is what we need to check our lives against, is that Abraham followed. Even when he didn t get it, even when he went about trying to do things on his own, he still came back to following. This story is a blessing for us who have had bad experience with legalism. To know that the man of faith himself struggled, slipped, failed so many times, and to know that God was in charge, that is amazing and we are so lucky to have a God who knows we are so weak, and only wants us to follow Dear friends at Parkman, We are so grateful for the opportunity to come to Parkman recently and share about God s work in South Asia! Thank you for welcoming us with such open arms as you always do! Keep in touch! In Him, Brian & Eva Holsinger & Family 3

4 Women s Fellowship met at the home of Cherie Villers on Monday, September 14 th. We reviewed the various activities of the last couple months which included our Trash & Treasure Sale, our dinner out in August, and two dinners for memorial services (Scott Ferry and Rich Thorn). We have decided to not bake our usual fall pastries this year. Plans are underway for our annual Election Day Dinner Tuesday, November 3 rd serving from 4:30 until 7:00 p.m. We greatly appreciate everyone s help roasting, baking, cooking, serving, and cleaning up. Watch for a sign-up sheet and let us know how you would be willing to help Thanks! We ll be making Christmas evergreen centerpieces once again Wednesday, December 2 nd at 6 p.m. in our social hall. Everyone is welcome to join us unleash your creative side! Our next meeting will be Monday, October 12 th at 7 p.m. at the home of Denise Villers (17880 Owen Road Parkman). All women of the church are welcome. HALLOWEEN IN PARKMAN Saturday, October 31 st 6:00 7:00 p.m. Parkman Chamber of Commerce is once again sponsoring an indoor Trick-or-Treat night for the kids of Parkman. They ask that residents bring their candy to the Parkman Community House on Saturday, October 31 st by 6 p.m. Children of the community are invited to Trick-or-Treat without the worries of nasty weather or crossing busy highways. There will also be fun music, games, and snacks for all the princesses and super heroes of Parkman. 2 - Gerald Mitchell OCTOBER 10 - Ora Barcikowski 12 - Brian & Chris Lanstrum 12 - Sam & Judee Lombardo 14 - Patrick Lanstrum 15 - Kevin Phile 20 - Denise Toth 21 - Abby Whelchel 22 - Gail Duchscherer 27 - Jim Toth 28 - Lucas Whelchel OCTOBER 4

5 The Trustees are still working on outside projects. the fence has been completed on the north side of the parsonage, the roof and steeple are finished, some of the yard work is done and the dish washer is in at the parsonage. The windows need washed inside, at least. A great big Thank You to all who helped in any way! Thank the Lord for providing the funds. If you would like to help with outdoor jobs we would like to get done before winter, please let Kathy Imhof know. Clothing Shed: The new shed from the St. Pauly Mission will soon be here. What to Donate: Used Clothing, shoes, sneakers, belts, purses, linens, pillowcases, blankets, curtains, and stuffed animals. Please no furniture, electronics, books household items, toys, garbage, pillows, rags or fabric scraps. Everything needs to be put in plastic trash bags. October 16th at 6:30 p.m. Join us! Bring your friends and neighbors! Monday, October 12, Good News Jail & Prison Ministry Dear Parkman Congregational Church; Thank you for your faithful support of Good News Jail & Prison Ministry in Your gifts supporting Chaplain Harry Richardson have been a blessing. When I think about this year, one word comes to mind: Encouragement the presence of the Spirit of God in our lives. The evidence of God at work. The motivation not to be weary in well doing. During the last 12 months, the Lord has brought the family of Good News Jail & Prison Ministry a host of encouragement. We have seen the Lord lead, open doors, provide new chaplains and take our ministry to places we never imagined. In the midst of it all we have seen thousands of people around the globe discover their need for the one and only Savior, Jesus Christ, and put their faith and trust in Him alone for salvation from sin and the free gift of eternal life. I am reminded of Titus 3-5, where Paul reminds us that it is not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to His Mercy that salvation comes. It is also God s provision demonstrated daily in our work and ministry. It is not because of the skill or work of any man or woman that lives are being transformed by the work of the Gospel through the ministry of chaplains and volunteers. It is the power of God, the work of God, the faithfulness of God that allows us to serve and participate in the work of the Gospel. I have said since my arrival on staff two years ago that God doesn t need us to accomplish His work. But it is our privilege to serve the living Savior and our joy to share with you what God has done, and continues to do, as a result of your investment in the work of the Gospel. God Bless! Jon Evans

6 CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP MINISTRY 35 of us enjoyed a delicious evening on Saturday, September 12 th as we progressed through four courses of dinner at four different homes. Thanks to all who participated and special thanks to those that hosted at their homes! Bowling (and Hot Dog Shoppe) was scheduled for Sunday, October 18 th. Due to Go Day activities that weekend, we will be postponing our bowling until the next weekend Sunday, October 25 th. Check out the sign-up sheet and let us know if you ll be able to join us. We hope to see you there! (All skill-levels are welcome.) If you have any questions, comments or suggestions about our church s social activities, please contact a member of our committee. Denise Villers - (440) , Judee Lombardo - (440) , Bonnie Phile - (440) , Denise Toth - (440) , Sandy Toth - (440) , Barb Thorn - (440) , Lilly Coz - (440) Feed-A-Friend Free Meal This month s Free Meal will be on Wednesday, October 28, 2015 from 5:00 6:30 p.m. in the Church Social Hall. Everyone is welcome - Bring a friend! 6

7 Laura Dietrich, Elmer Stall - Briar Hill Health Care Pierce Street Middlefield, OH Laura McConnell - Happy Hearts Residential Home Burton Windsor Road Middlefield, Oh Pat Bosak, Jean Giles - The Pines at Brooks House Claridon-Troy Road Room #1316 Hiram, OH Ida Kukuljevic - The Woodlands 6831 N. Chestnut Ravenna, OH Healing and Comfort: Jan Pizem, Claudia, Brian K, Nathan, Rosie, Sandy Toth, Robin W., Katie F., Renette & Jerry, Wayne K., Jim, Sheila C., Lawrence, Mrs. Georgia, Arlan Byrne, Claudia H., Brian K., George Hasman Those overseas-protection and Salvation Family members to accept Christ Christian Business Owners 26 yr. old with stage 4 breast cancer Georgia family, God s guidance Ruth K., problems with eyes Doyle C., Acute Kidney failure Carol C., Peace, comfort & rest Dawn E., Healing from car accident Family raising money for repairs after basement wall collapse Michelle Leukemia McKenzie, Spiral fracture Jenn, closer job interview Bonnie W. - Upcoming Hip surgery THOSE DEALING WITH LONG TERM ILLNESS Richard Gates George Webb Laura Dietrich Jean Giles Charlie Dale Vickie Salyer Rose Dale Pat Bosak Matt Hering Phyllis Thomas Irene Peairs THE FAMILY OF Rich Thorn Noreen Smith Maschek Baby Betty Ohl Bill Polk Ida Kukuljevic Elmer Stall Mason Murray Georgia Hatten Dan Hatten Wayne Komandt Mary Scallosi Chris Reese Tony Mayer Patty Mast George Hasman Joe Mayoros Laura McConnell Please contact the church office at (440) if you know of church members or friends who have been hospitalized, or with updates to our above long term prayer list. Urgent requests (when the office is closed) can be called into our church Prayer Chain through Bev Gates at (440) or Jan Gotham at (440)

8 Calendar of Events ~ October, 2015 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Memory Verse: Genesis 17:7 I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you Communion Elder s, 7:00 pm Praise Team, 6:30 pm 9:00 am-sunday School 10:00 am - Fellowship 10:30 am - Worship Trustees, 7:00 pm No Cub Scouts at PCC :00 am -Sunday School 10:00 am - Fellowship 10:30 am - Worship Columbus Day Women s Fellowship, 7:00 pm Praise Team, 6:30 pm Cub Scouts, 6-8:00 pm CCCC Ohio Fellowship Meeting Movie Night, 6:30 pm :00 Sunday School 10:00 Fellowship 10:30 Worship Elder s Meeting, 7:00 pm Missions Meeting, 7:00 pm Praise Team, 6:30 pm Cub Scouts, 6-8:00 pm :00 am -Sunday School 10:00 am - Fellowship 10:30 am - Worship Bowling & The Hot Dog Shoppe Praise Team, 6:30 pm Cub Scouts, 6-8:00 pm Cabinet Meeting, 7:30 pm Free Meal 5-6:30 pm Halloween in Parkman, 6-7:00 Community House 8