December - Faith United Methodist Church
Transcription
December - Faith United Methodist Church
in Faith December 2015 A community of the United Methodist Church Calendar Nov 28th Hanging go the Greens Dec 11 7PM Movie Night “It’s a Wonderful Life” Dec 19 10AM-12PM Ringing Bells for Salvation Army Dec 21 12PM Special Music with the Keenagers Dec 24 7PM Christmas Eve Service-Joint KMUMC Also Local and World Mission giving and Christmas gifts From Pastor Lee Only if we have the heart to thank God… It is common to forget about the past as time goes by. Enjoying certain things now, when you could not enjoy them before… What has now been solved, but had previously come to you as hardships… Although you lie in bed with legs out straight now, the moments that used to make you pressured at heart and the problems that made you shed tears on your pillows… We all have such elements in life. Therefore, it is indisputable that we should live in gratefulness towards God for being “who I am at the moment.” Nevertheless, we often find our bitter selves living with walls built-up-high against thanks, completely blind and not-remembering. I suddenly remembered an old story today. Even now, our family has no medical insurance. However, we receive the federal medical aid for the low income earners, and so our children can receive regular diagnosis and urgent treatments for zero payments. It cannot be described how thankful we are for this. I still remember the times when we prayed with all our hearts, especially whenever our children got sick during our initial days here, since we could not receive medical supports due to the financial situations of the church. So shouldn't we be grateful that we can now at least enjoy such benefits! Today I looked for the Medicaid card to bring Joy to the dentist, and momentarily I thought of some old memories. It was year 2003 when our family first moved to Rochester. Charles and Sophia were spending some good 30 minutes, doing Tae-kwondo kicks. After a while Sophia tried to make fun of Charles. So she lay down on the floor and said, “Brother, help me stand up.” Although she could get up by herself, she was pleading for help to her brother. After ignoring her for a good amount of time, Charles pulled Sophia’s wrist to help her get up. That was when Sophia burst into tears holding onto her left wrist. It seemed that Charles tried to get Sophia up quickly and it shocked her arm. I thought Sophia was exaggerating a little, so I just tried to rub softly on the painful spots. But she did not even let me touch her! Sophia could not even spread her arm. Seeing his sister in pain because of something he did, Charles began to cry a lot. ..#continued)inside# 585.334.1180 174 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623 email: [email protected] Page 1 In Faith From Pastor Lee cont. The situation seemed serious. I got changed to get to the emergency room. (I did not have an insurance but there were no other options.) However, Sophia began to cry even more to avoid going to the hospital. So I tried to make her feel better by praying for her while holding onto her arm. After praying, Sophia looked at me with big, swollen eyes and kept on asking, “Dad, will Sophia be okay by tomorrow morning?” Throughout the night Sophia continued to moan even in her sleep. Next morning! Sophia started to cry again as soon as she got up and could feel the pain. So we made a reservation at the pain clinic run by a Korean owner, and we hurried there. We were worried that Sophia might have gotten her shoulder or elbow dislocated. Thankfully the Xray results showed no problems in her bones and nerve systems. The doctor said that Sophia must have gotten bruises inside her bones due to a sudden shock. So we left the hospital after she received light physical therapy and some medical treatments. As we did not have breakfast and it was past noon, we decided to have some hamburgers at the nearby McDonalds. Sophia seemed to feel pain even as she ate the sandwich, since she frowned from time to time. It was hard to see Sophia constantly crying on our way home. And she fell asleep as soon as we got back. Although we were thankful for not having any problems with her bones or nerves, we looked at Sophia in sadness while thinking how much pain she might had been feeling, praying for her once again. Perhaps an hour or two had passed. While I was preparing for the Sunday sermon, Sophia ran down the staircase. “Dad, look. Sophia is all well now. I can spread my arm and even flip it over.” She had come to me, saying that everything was back to normal after taking a nap. From my point of view, it seemed that everything had been “very much” exaggerated. It was hard to tell whether Sophia knew how much her mother and father had worried over the night, the whole day next day, running with her in their arms to the hospital and to the X585.334.1180 174 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623 December ray Laboratory. She merely left it with that one sentence and again started to mess around with her brother. I realized that Sophia’s reaction was 80% exaggerated. But, even though a thought crossed my mind that the diagnosis and treatment fees were expensive without the medical insurance, I found my heart much lightened by seeing Sophia back in good condition. Whether it was an overreaction or not, it is hard to say how joyful it was to see my child in good health. This is a very old memory. Now, I am thankful for receiving medical benefits, Sophia being completely cured from her illness, Sophia and Charles attending universities, and that God gave us our youngest child, Joy, unexpectedly. I am also thankful for many things such as: new adult members joining us for the new generation ministry, former college members of the KMUMC getting trained, married and settling here, having a church building that we can use freely, starting the American church ministry, having a car that can run, having lots of people willing to do group bible studies every academic semester, for the growing number and grace of the praise team and the choir, for having someone who can be in charge of the sound system… Now I find that I am enjoying all the things I used to pray for in the old days. It means that there are so many things that have already been given to me. Of course, it does not mean that some of my prayers are not ongoing. Nevertheless, if we look for things to thank God, there are so many. It is only a matter of having or not having the heart to be grateful for the grace of God. Let us drop our complaints for things we do not have at the moment. Instead, let us remember what He has already given us, looking back how much grace the responding hand of God really was. Then would not God be very content to see us like that? Every time we thank for the grace we have long received, the smile on God’s lips will not fade away. . Rev. Jinkook Lee email: [email protected] Page 2 In Faith November Looking for something to read - Try this DECEMBER BOOK REPORT- Dave McNitt GOD NEVER BLINKS by Regina Brett “50 Lessons for Life's Little Detours” Movie&&Night& This is a book of short essays, each about the length of a newspaper column (that's what many of them were), which relate some of the best advice and stories about life that I have ever read. Some of the lessons speak of God, some don't, but all contain universal truths that most of us will be able to relate to. Here are a few of the Lesson titles: 1. Life isn't fair but it's still good. 2. When in doubt take the next right step. 8. It's okay to get angry with God. He can take it. 15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks. 27. Always choose life. 28. Forgive everyone everything. 33. Believe in miracles. I would love to have a Sunday School class discussing some of these truths that the author shares from her experience and her wisdom. One of my favorites is Lesson 50: Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift. I'll share part of that here. “Einstein said, 'There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is.' Now the thing about miracles is that you don't always recognize them. Sometimes they come in packages wrapped like big fat mistakes. The secret is to find the miracle in the mess. It's hard to do, especially if you are attempting to create a perfect you. _ _ _ There's so much living to be squeezed into the cracks of one little day. _ _ _ To do that means you will get messy, because life is messy. Yes, life is still a gift, every day of it, but it isn't tied with a bow.” There's more, lots more. Some lessons read better than others for me, but none were bad. If you'd like to borrow it I'll leave my copy on the table under the stained glass window in the Gathering Space. Just return it when you're done for others to get a crack at. Dave McNitt What are you Reading?-Let us know 585.334.1180 174 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623 All#are# Welcome+ Free#Friday# December# 11th##7#PM# Wear your favorite Christmas Sweater, have some holiday treats, and remember the spirit of the season Disciple Corner: Lessons from John Our adult bible study has been diving into the Gospel of John. We have shared many insights, some confusions and many laughs and most of all we have shared fellowship. As we try to walk the path of discipleship to being a better Christian, we walk with others who can encourage and make the journey a joy. To share one concept that came out of our first weeks: The Gospel of John is trying to get people to see the importance of the spiritual world versus the physical one, but people keep getting confused. Jesus speaks of water and bread and light- three things we need in our physical existence- but he is offering so much more. The living water that will sustain us in life with God, bread which is the work of God and the light which it the truth of God that we can grow in with honesty knowing our mistakes but also we are loved and have “Eternal Life” a life with God and starts here and now when we walk with Christ. Kathleen McGrath email: [email protected] Page 3 In Faith CHURCH SIGN SUPPORTER COMMON THREADS It is important for passersby to see that Faith UMC is vital and worshiping every Sunday and Julius has perfected a method to get the letters up efficiently. We have one volunteer helping so far, but it would be great to have additional people to spread the work- Please respond to Julius or Patty Hornik or email [email protected] if you are interested. WOMAN’s SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDY All our ladies are invited to join our Small Group Bible Study group on Tuesday Mornings at 10:00 am in the Gathering space. Please let me, Donna McAlpine, 218-9497 or the church office, 334-1180 know you wish to join our Biblical exploring lessons. ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL The Gospel of John, beyond 3:16. Adult Sunday School is after worship and a short fellowship break. We have been talking about the Gospel of John which has some of our most well known passages and is filled with great insight. But is also requires us to think about what is faith and who is our God. We will explore this Gospel together and find out how it is relevant to our lives. COME SING WITH US Sing in the shower? Find yourself humming hymns after service? Come sing with the choir. You don’t have to read music or have the best singing voice, just a desire to praise God in music. Come join us any Sunday morning for practice at 8:30AM 585.334.1180 174 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623 December We are going to begin sewing mission dresses very soon for a couple of different mission trips. Our hope is that we will come together to work on various other mission and fundraising projects as we sew. knit, crochet and craft over the next year. We may be few, and we may not be young, but with God’s blessing there is much we can do in His name. We will be meeting at various times depending on the projects and people involved. Please let Sharon H, Charlotte, Cheryl or Betty B know if you are interested in being a part of this group in some manner. We are also looking for supporters. So, if you or someone you know has any fabric (cotton, light-med. weight, not see-thru for dresses), sewing notions (thread, 1/4- 1/2in. doublefold bias tape, fabric use trims like eyelet lace), sewing machine to be left at church, yarn or craft supplies that you’d be willing to donate, it would greatly be appreciated. If you’d like to help monetarily, you can purchase gift cards from Joann Fabrics or Wal-mart and give to Cheryl or Sharon and then record on your Gifts in Kind sheet for tax purposes or just donate cash if you’d like. If you’d like There are a few of us who have found some great deals on fabrics and other linens that we can use at Savers, garage sales, etc. Holiday Bazaar / end of year Extra Effort Fundraising If you have any new or gently used appropriate holiday gift items, holiday decorations or items for our craft area, please bring them in asap. Space is limited so if you have anything that is large please check with us to see if we have room for it. Also, it would help if you put a suggested price on your donated items, if not we'll take care of it as we receive the items. We are using the nursery alcove (the little room by the office) for storage of donated items until they are ready to put out. Once again prices are suggested only, please give what you are able and willing with a joyful heart. If a check is written out, the memo space should be labeled EEF email: [email protected] Page 4 In Faith Are you a Ding-aLing for God? Ringing Salvation Army Bells Other Advent Missions Sign up to join us Dec 19, 10am -noon at the Marketplace mall. (JCPenney door facing Macy's. This is not our usual spot-but very easy to find). We will be collecting for the Salvation Army as well as spreading some Christian Cheer as we open up door and wish people Merry Christmas. It is always touching to see how God uses even these simple acts to bring a touch of his love to others. Everyone can come- the more the merrier! (couldn’t help the pun-blame it on Kathleen) WHAT WE ARE COOKING Pork and Apple Bake Quick comfort food for cold busy nights. This is one of those “show the love” recipes. Share with others-Bring a bit to someone who needs a break. This recipe is recommended to us from Betty Hopkinson You can cut down on the amount of pork chops depending on the people serving. (If you like the apple, you can use two cans of apple pie filling.) 1) Spread one can of apple pie filling (21 oz) in the bottom of a 13 x9 x2 baking dish. 2) Place 6-8 pork chops or loin slices over top. 3) Mix one small package (6 oz) cornbread or other flavor stuffing mix-following instructions- (apple juice or apple cider can be used as liquid.).Spread over meat. 4) Cover and bake at 350 degrees 40-45 minutes. (The meat can be browned or not.) 585.334.1180 December 174 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623 We will be reaching out here and around the world. Check at church for our Advent Tree for ways to help. We will be supporting local families in need. We are also reaching out to the Kade Project (www.thekadeproject.com) that supports local military personnel in need. Also we will be supporting the House of Hope in Nicaragu, a rehabilitation program for women and their children leaving the world prostitution and human trafficking. (www.houseofhopenicaragua.com).We will be sending little toy beanie babies in special little cloth bags for the children. There is a local physician who assists in this charity and will be visiting and can bring these gifts. We may also make some dresses that would go as well. There will be information at church, but if you are interested in helping you can also talk to Patty Hornik or email [email protected] Special Music Program December 21 12 PM A special musical program arranged by Betty and Manny with the Henrietta Senior Center will be presented for the Keenage group here at Faith Church. We are inviting all seniors or wannabe seniors to attend. RSVP to MarionM - Sharon H. CHRISTMAS FLOWERS (POINSETTIAS) Colors: Red, White, Marble, Pink 6 1/2 inch pot - covers included Price - $8.00 Orders will be taken November 22nd, November 29th, deadline December 6th. Payment required at time of placement of order - cash or check. If there are any questions, please contact Betty Gascoyne at 427-7647. email: [email protected] Page 5 In Faith December Rush-Henrietta Interfaith League News Thanks for Helping for the Pastors-AsWaiters Dinner Fund Raiser Over $1000 were raised. Thank you Betty and Manny for working and thanks to all who came out to support this venture for Harvest Home Coalition-Habitat for Humanity. ********************************************************* SOMETHING NEW FROM ST. MARIANNE COPE A Festival of Lessons and Carols Presented by St. Marianne Cope Music Ministry Sunday, December 6, 2015 3:00 pm Good Shepherd Chapel Festive Reception to Follow Free will donations (To defray the cost of new hymnals for the parish) Come Celebrate the Season RHAFT Rush-Henrietta Area Food Terminal The Community’s Emergency Food Cupboard since 1979! THANK YOU, AGAIN, to all those who so generously donate food and supplies to RHAFT. REMINDER: The RHAFT FOOD DONATION BOX is in the coat area near the exit door. (There is a sign on it indicating such). FISH/RHAFT now has a web site. Go to <fishrhaftinc.com> for more information. 585.334.1180 174 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623 REQUESTS FOR THE FOOD CUPBOARD Baking Supplies for the Holidays Typical canned good items suitable for Holiday gatherings: Canned Ham Canned Yams Canned Pumpkin Cranberry Sauce Pie Fillings Gravy Mix Usual: Canned Meats: Chicken, Spam, Tuna, Corned Beef Canned Fruits, Dried Fruits, Pasta Sauce Boxed Mashed Potatoes, Hamburger Helper Pancake Mix & Syrup Hot Chocolate, Coffee, Tea Peanut Butter, Jelly of all types Cold Cereals, Juices Cat and Dog Food, plus Kitty Litter Everyday/Anytime Donations: Paper Products, Personal Hygiene, Shaving Cream, Deodorant, Feminine Hygiene, Shampoo, Diapers, Bar Soap VERY IMPORTANT (Some of our volunteers go south for the winter!) GREAT NEED FOR RHAFT AND FISH VOLUNTEERS AT THIS TIME. Telephone volunteers to receive calls for FISH and RHAFT are in great need at this time. One day at a time for volunteering is all that is required. FISH (Friends in Service Here)- Transport clients to and from medical appointments arranged one day a head of time. RHAFT (Rush-Henrietta Area Food Terminal)Packs grocery items from the RHAFT cupboard and delivers them to the requesting clients. All volunteer work is scheduled at your convenience. If interested please call Beverly Sesnie at 334-6147. email: [email protected] Page 6 In Faith HARVEST HOME COALITION NEWS ALERT: The MICHE FAMBRO JAZZ CONCERT was a Fund Raiser for the Harvest Home Coalition. Thanks to all who took the time to support this and were able to enjoy the International talent displayed by Miche. It was truly an enjoyable time for those who appreciated his talent. The results were: Concert: $1,238.00 and Cookie Sales: $53.95. December This year’s home will be dedicated and named the Roger Cross Habitat Home. Roger Cross was the founder of Flower City Habitat Home for Humanity in 1984. His passing leaves a legacy of 210 homes as of 2015. He was a former member of the West Henrietta Baptist Church. New Arrivals Rhonda Callard shared these pictures of her new twin grandchildren. Happy Birthday. Jake (Jacobe Matthew). And Josie (Josephine Eleanor) THE 57 RIES STREET BUILD HAS BEGUN!!!!: Information concerning volunteers to help with the build at 57 Ries Street is available. Bill Rolfe will be the contact person for Faith UMC. Please see him if you are interested in volunteering. Our name, as Faith UMC, is printed on the sign, as this house is being built and will be dedicated. Please continue to support this endeavor to support the Harvest Home Coalition for the Roger Cross Home. Please be proud that you have been a part of this transformation to the betterment of those who are less fortunate. God Bless You All 585.334.1180 174 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623 email: [email protected] Page 7 In Faith Birthdays and Anniversaries DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS 5th Marie King 6th Charlotte Colegrove 8th David Smith 8th Sue Kim 9th Brittany Hovey 10th Karen Sun 11th Dan Quackenbush 13th Chris Parish 14th Mark Sun 15th Abigail Canterbury 17th Joshua Sun 18th Michael Proukou 20th Eudora Lippa 20th Heather Slough 22nd Megan Slough 23rd Ralph Strong 24th Austin Heimes 26th George Sanford DECEMBER ANNIVERSARIES 7th Jane & Norm Quenan 30th Sandy & Hoyt Brown JANUARY BIRTHDAYS 1st Manuella Padilla 6th Virginia Entz 9th Ralf Meyert 9th Ryann Scheele 13th Paige Smith 13th Sydney Smith 24th Ray Ottman 28th Harvey Colegrve 29th Sue Friederich 30th Craig Whitman JANUARY ANNIVERSERIES 6th Linda & David Pico December WORSHIP PARTICIPANTS DECEMBER WORSHIP PARTICIPANTS December 6, 2015 Reader Sharon Hancock Ushers Deb Deller & Julius Toenniessen December 13, 2015 Reader David McNitt Ushers David Felty & Sharon Hancock December 20, 2015 Reader Sue Friederich Ushers David McNitt & December 27, 2015 Reader Kathleen McGrath Ushers Neil & Patty Hornik Cares and Concern… Olive Ford The Hurlbut 1177 East Henrietta Rd Rochester, NY 14623 Jim Logan Hancock's brother-in-law Pam Stover Home Virginia Entz St. Anne's Community 1500 Portland Avenue, Rochester, NY 14621 Janet Winzenreid Home Dick Spong Home Tony Andolina Home Jennifer Smith & Family Home Ellie McGarigle Home Angela Horan Liza Entz's sister-in-law (waiting for heart transplant) Peter Stoller Husband of Teri Stoller (Norma Goodman's daughter) Reg Evans Norma Goodman's brother-in-law Catherine Strong Home Liza Entz Unity Hospital If there is anyone that you want to be included in the Cares and Concerns portion of the Newsletter, please advise the church office. 585.334.1180 174 Pinnacle Road, Rochester NY 14623 email: [email protected] Page 8