November - 2015 - Trinity United Methodist Church
Transcription
November - 2015 - Trinity United Methodist Church
PASTOR’S PARABLE Pastor Henry "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 The thanksgiving season is coming, and we take time to give thanks to God for another bountiful year. I also realize it is not always easy to give thanks, but this is the very thing we must do in order to see God's will accomplished in our lives. In addition, the scripture tells us we are not only to give thanks but also to do so in all circumstances. Is it really possible? Are you thankful for your present circumstances? Are you thankful for your salvation, your friendships, and your job? In the end, thankfulness is a key to your life. It is the key that turns your situation around because it changes you, your outlook, and your attitude. There is power in a thankful heart. Begin to thank God for all the blessings he has given you instead of dwelling on the negative. Look at the example of Jesus. He followed the will of His Father to the very end. He obeyed without complaint. In Philippians 2:5-8, Paul says that we should have the same attitude. Jesus made himself nothing and took on the very nature of a servant. He humbled Himself and became obedient to death. We also are to have this same attitude with a humble and thankful acceptance of God's will for our lives. Here are some ways to practice this attitude in everyday life: • Thank and praise God for everything in your life. Thank God for even the difficulties. It is a sacrifice to do this. But God can turn troubles to triumph. "Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name" (Hebrews 13:15). • Less complaining, more thanksgiving. During the difficult times, be very careful to watch what you say. Instead of complaining, think of ways you can verbally offer God the sacrifice of thanksgiving. • Don't compare yourself with others. It is easy to compare yourself to others and feel discontent. But when we begin to thank God for what Continue Page 2 Col. 1 Relying on God's faithfulness, we journey together seeking unity, inclusiveness, and renewed life in Christ, becoming a vibrant witness to God's love. NOVEMBER 2015 INSIDE THIS ISSUE CALENDARS FELLOWSHIP EVENTS LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES LECTIONARY PASTOR’S PARABLE PRAYER CONCERNS SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES SUNDAY SCHEDULES UNITED METHODIST WOMEN PASTOR’S PARABLE TIME — A POEM Continued from Page 1 we have rather than comparing ourselves to others, it opens the door for God's blessings. Rick Warren said in one of his daily devotions, "God smiles when we praise and thank him continually. Few things feel better than receiving heartfelt praise and appreciation from someone else. God loves it, too. An amazing thing happens when we offer praise and thanksgiving to God. When we give God enjoyment, our own hearts are filled with joy." So, thanksgiving is ultimately for our own good after all. Wish everyone a happy thanksgiving! In Christ, Pastor Henry John M. Fugitt 8-19-2015 THE MYSTERY OF TIME Time is never seen It is the invisible wall Upon which I hang the pictures of my life Time spins about my head and tells me When to eat, when to sleep...yet I have never held this precious gift in my hand Time moves so swiftly now It leaves a trail of history Dragging in the dust of yesterday Time promises dreams to be fulfilled In borrowed tomorrows Then laughs and dances away today Slow down time, sit with me awhile We’ll redefine the HERE and NOW While I wrap my mind around you I’ll search for that key to unlock that secret door Where measured time no longer binds my mind Then step into that room called the eternal now Editor’s Note: John and Eva Fugitt pastored at Trinity from 1979-1984. John retired in 1994 and they relocated to Ashland, Oregon. John continues writing and publishing his poetry and story books. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved. DUET MINISTRY TEAM VISION STATEMENTS Duet Education Team—Deepen and build our understanding of, and relationship with God by: nurturing faith, encouraging study of the Bible, teaching Christian history, tradition and discipleship, leading to a celebration of our relationship with God and all God’s children. Linna Harnack, Chairperson Duet Evangelism Team—To joyfully share our growing relationship with the living God, and invite others to experience the exciting, transforming power of being a part of Christian Community. Bob McGowan, Chairperson Duet Fellowship Team—Strengthen and grow our Christian community by developing friendships, melding the congregations, and welcoming others into our fellowship. Mickey Lazaga, Chairperson Duet Social Ministry Team—In response to our calling to be God’s hands on earth we lovingly serve God’s children, sharing our resources as we serve, learn, teach, and advocate. Judy Williams, Chairperson Duet Worship Team—In worship we are drawing into a relationship with God and into God’s presence through praising, praying, listening, teaching, and receiving the sacraments. Dianne LaVerne, Chairperson DUET Staff 38th Annual Junque Sale! All proceeds benefit Sunnyvale FISH and are used to supply emergency food to 60-70 families per month in Sunnyvale. Saturday, November 7, 2015 — 9 am-3 pm Bring your donations of Quality (upscale) Junque to church on Thursday or Friday. Bake Sale Donations will be accepted Friday or early Saturday. Volunteer! Work any or all three days the 5th through the 7th. Donate! Household items, small appliances, books, puzzles, games, garden or sports equipment, toys, and clothing in good condition. NO TV’s, computers, or large furniture. Shop! Sale Day on the 7th. Low prices on Quality Junque. Café! Visit the Café for coffee or lunch. Contact: Carol Wilser 1-408-996-1450 or Renata Thorne 1-408-252-9045. St. John Lutheran & Trinity United Methodist Churches 581-583 East Fremont Avenue at Manet, Sunnyvale Page 2 Senior Editors Henry Kim, Pastor Peggy White, Pastor Production Editors Lea McGowan Matthew Ridgway Writers All the People Office Hours St. John: Tues, Wed, Fri, 930 am-130 pm Trinity & JV: Monday-Friday, 9 am-1 pm Available by Appointment DUET articles are due in the church office by the 15th of every month. THIS ‘N THAT YOU ARE IN OUR PRAYERS Mark your Calendars for the following workshops. November 1—Women & Money, Sunday, 1-2 pm November 15—Social Security, Sunday, 1-2 pm Our friends at St. John Lutheran Church: Art, Anne, Mark, Joan, the Seiler-Garman family, and Amie and Katie as they wait expectantly for their first child. The 38th Annual Junque Sale to benefit FISH will be November 7. Plan to bring your donations of quality junque during the week prior to the sale. Volunteers are needed to set up and work the day of the sale. Our friends at Trinity United Methodist Church: Jessica and her family, Pat, Clare (Dianne’s mother), and Ruth. Do You Remember? The Peninsulaires Barbershop Harmony Chorus, with special guests, Spellbound, will present their program live on Saturday, November 14 at First United Methodist Church of Sunnyvale, 535 Old San Francisco Road, Sunnyvale 94086. Doors open at 1 pm for the Ice Cream Social with show at 2:15 pm. The Cabaret Dinner doors open at 6 pm with show at 8 pm. See Marvin for tickets. We pray for those who are or have been ill, those facing difficult circumstances, those recovering from surgery, persons living in assisted living homes, our elderly and shut-in friends, and their caregivers; all of God’s people, our neighbors, church members, our faraway friends and families; for those who lack access to clean water, children living in poverty, and those without enough food, those experiencing storms; Conner Lee was baptized on October 18, 2015, at Trinity’s service of worship. Conner is the great grandson of Lois and grandson of Loren. for those unemployed, under-employed, looking for work, beginning new jobs, outdoor citizens, victims of violence, struggling families, and families in conflict; People are on the move. Please call the office for details. Susan, Donald and Karasel, Ione, Connie, California-Nevada Annual Conference Offices, 1350 Halyard Drive, West Sacramento CA 95691 for those experiencing drought, affected by intense storms and earthquakes, victims of fire and other disasters so that they might rebuild their communities and grow closer to one another; for empowering the church with grace, hope, and healing, in nations suffering from Ebola, experiencing turmoil or unrest, and those living under oppressive leadership; for all those who suffer that they find respite from their pains and that God fill their hearts with hope and assurance for the future; Trinity’s Annual Stewardship Dinner is a potluck this year. Dinner will be held in the Fellowship Hall on November 14 at 5 pm. Bring a dish to share and enjoy a short program following dinner. Watch your US Mail box for more information. for immigrants coming across our U.S. borders, both unaccompanied minors and adults, that they receive humanitarian assistance from our government agencies charged with their care; It’s Time! Daylight Saving Time ends on November 1. Remember to set your clocks back one hour. It’s a good time to check your smoke and CO2 detector batteries and replace them with fresh batteries. police, firefighters, emergency care workers, safety personnel, and military personnel, especially those who have come home broken in mind, body, and spirit; the leaders of our cities, state, and nation, including Governor Brown, President Obama, and leaders throughout the world; The Lord’s Pantry Give-a-Way, our annual gifting project serving the children of East San Jose, is in need of gifts for all ages of children, especially those in the 13 to 17 year-old age group. Gift cards and movie tickets are welcomed by the teenagers. Bring your unwrapped gifts to church, labeled with the age range and most appropriate gender, no later than Sunday, December 13, for delivery on the 13th. Sponsored by the Duet Social Ministry Team. guidance for the missions and pastors of St. John, Trinity, and The Very Good Korean Methodist Church; strength for our church leaders around the world, especially ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton; ELCA Bishop Holmerud; UMC Bishop Brown; and the UMC El Camino Real District Superintendent, Staci Current. God, thank you for the amazing gifts you give us, most especially the ones to come. Holy God, bring to our minds and hearts the needs of the world and our fitting response. Thank you, Lord, for allowing us a line of communication with you through prayer. Amen. The Thursday night Duet Prayer Fellowship meets in the Library at 7 pm to pray for many people whose names are not published. You are welcome to join this small group to pray for spiritual growth and healing through prayer for others. Please contact Jane Dredge, Mickey Lazaga, or your pastor to add persons to our prayer list. Page 3 DUET CHRISTIAN EDUCATION CLARINET PART 1 Ken Marsha Children’s Halloween Party On Saturday, October24, we celebrated Halloween with our children at our annual Halloween party. There were games, a pumpkin walk, pumpkin decorating, a piñata, and a haunted house. Those children (and parents) arriving hungry were treated to hot dogs and side dishes in the Fellowship Hall. It appeared that everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The Education Team thanks all of the volunteers for making this event so successful. I done it. I done it. I signed up for clarinet lessons and actually showed up for my first lesson. At this point the grammar police showed up and hauled me off to Miz Grundy’s class room for a grammar refresher course. There she was — not Miss America — armed with a ruler and a scowl. One look from her and I almost turned to stone. Go forth and write no more, she said. I am tired of seeing you in my class room so often. “Yes, ma’am”, said I and promised to mend my ways. I then returned to my regularly scheduled offenses against grammar and the English language. Bibles for Third Graders At this age, the children are learning that a book and their imagination can take them on an adventure without ever leaving their home. So now it becomes typical for the child to ask for books for a birthday or Christmas present, and for the parents, grandparents, and other loving relatives to joyfully accommodate each such request. The delight and encouragement that comes from the adult world in support of reading, as well as the emphasis on reading in school, generally (and hopefully) establishes, once and for all times in a child’s life, the importance of reading and the importance of books. If now is the time they are learning the importance of books, wouldn’t we want to give them the most important book of all; i.e., the Bible? Well that’s exactly what we intend to do. I did it, I did it. I signed up for clarinet lessons at the Music School with Lisa Evans, a kind-hearted woman who puts up with my antics. At the first lesson I learned how to put the clarinet together. Put it together, say you? Yes, say I. Lisa spent most of the first lesson showing me how to put it together. I am not very good at putting things together; I am better at breaking things. I am going to have to learn how to do it if I want to learn how to play it. The best part was putting the mouthpiece together because she showed me how to make a clarinet-like sound from it (the mouth piece was not attached to the rest of the instrument). I made a few decent sounds trying to match her sounds. My tone was decent, surprising me and her. Then it was time to rip it apart and put it back in its little black box, which looks like a doctor’s bag. Cork grease—I need to grease the cork fittings a few times a week while the instrument is being broken in. This almost makes the violin look simple. And then I went to Prayer Fellowship. Bibles will be given to the third graders that belong to St. John and Trinity’s congregations during our worship times on November 15. It would be especially nice to show an interest in the Bibles just received to reinforce the notion that the Bible is indeed a very important book. More and more, we will be incorporating the Bible in our Sunday school lessons. Children’s Christmas Party The Duet Education Team is planning the annual Christmas Party for the children (toddlers with their parents through grade 6) of St. John and Trinity on December 12, from 10 am to 12 noon, in the Sanctuary. The children will make Christmas tree ornaments, decorate the Children’s Christmas tree, decorate Christmas cookies, sing carols, re-enact the first Christmas, eat pizza and experience the early arrival of Santa Claus. FREE COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS Please join us for the final workshops hosted by the Duet Evangelism Team. Women & Money Workshop Sunday, November 1—1-2 pm in the Chapel Learn about unique financial challenges women face and six steps women can take to help achieve financial security. Remember, if you are parents, or grandparents, or just loving aunts or uncles, reserve that date and time on your calendars! It will be here before you know it, and we are hoping to have a 100% turnout of all of our children! At least one guardian is requested to be present for their child/children. Social Security Workshop Sunday, November 15—1-2 pm in the Chapel Learn why it is important to plan together with your spouse and strategies to boost retirement and survivor benefits. Please RSVP for the workshops by calling 1-408-739-1601 or email [email protected]. Page 4 DUET FELLOWSHIP TEAM EVENTS UNITED METHODIST WOMEN A Walt Bev The exciting news of the day is that a United Methodist woman might become the U.S. President! Go, Hillary! Visitors abounded at our October meeting. Some of us missed this unique panel on aging in which several senior women shared their experiences and wisdom. Thanks to our leadership for putting together this meaningful program, necessitated by last-minute surprises. HOLIDAY SCHEDULE Tuesday, November 10 Starting with our grateful thanks to the Almighty, come to the Pledge Program, November 10, 9:30 am, in Room 1. Did you know that our UMW Unit budget for 2016 is financed entirely by your pledges? Saturday, November 21 Stuffing animals continues at Santa’s Helpers on November 21, 9:30 am, in Room 1. Tuesday, December 1 Program planning session at Gloria’s, on December 1, 10 am. Monday, December 7 Annual Christmas Party at Jane’s home on December 7, 7:30 pm. 1 SANTA’S HELPERS Jane Saturday, November 21, 9:30-11:30 am, is the last workshop to stuff animals for this project. Join us in Room 1. Come and help fill 470 Santa Bags on Saturday, December 5, at 10 am. Santa’s Helpers is an independent charitable organization operating out of our facilities. PROJECT DAY—EVERY FRIDAY Jane It is not too late to make items for Christmas! Bring your portable project to church on Fridays and work on it for a while, or just sit and visit. Snacks and drinks are ready around 10 am. Closing time is 4 pm. We continue working on the One Warm Scarf project to help keep someone warm! Knit or crochet a scarf, hat, or blanket for a child or adult. Requested scarf sizes are: 40x6 inches for children; 60x8 inches for adults. Please let Jane Dredge know if you need yarn, Page 5 needles, or hooks. Evita—On November 15 the Sunnyvale Community Players will be presenting Evita, the story of Eva Peron with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber. It is a matinee starting at 2:30 pm. We plan to go out for dinner together after the show at the Black Bear Diner in Sunnyvale on El Camino near Cezanne Drive. Sunnyvale Singers—Join us in the Sanctuary at 4 pm on Sunday, December 6, for the Sunnyvale Singers winter concert entitled “Laughing All the Way: Holiday Humor and Joy”. After the show there will be appetizers. See Mickey if you can help by bringing a finger food. De Anza Planetarium—On Friday, December 18, we will see the show entitled “Spontaneous Fantasia Christmas Special” at the De Anza Planetarium. J. Wait will put on the show. He is a performer, interactive designer, filmmaker, graphic artist, and composer. This one-hour show starting at 7 pm will use virtual reality and Christmas Carols to get you into the Christmas spirit! Bunco—On January 9, Melva will be teaching us how to play this popular parlor game. It came to San Francisco in 1855 as a gambling game but I don’t think she will teach any gambling! We will have a casserole and soup potluck followed by Bunco. FREE FRIDAY FLICK—NOVEMBER 13 Bob November’s movie is Laura, about a detective who falls for the woman whose murder he is investigating. This storyline synopsis was written by Steve Hosgood and posted at imdb.com. "Detective Mark McPherson investigates the killing of Laura, found dead on her apartment floor before the movie starts. McPherson builds a mental picture of the dead girl from the suspects whom he interviews. He is helped by the striking painting of the late lamented ....who would have wanted to kill a girl with whom every man she met seemed to fall in love? To make matters worse, McPherson finds himself falling under her spell too. Then one night, halfway through his investigations, something seriously bizarre happens to make him re-think the whole case." Another reviewer adds that "With several plot twists and turns, it keeps you thoroughly absorbed until it reaches its satisfying climax...". Starring in the film are Gene Tierney, Dana Andrews, Clifton Webb, Judith Anderson and Vincent Price. Join us for an evening of intrigue and surprise. Bring friends, neighbors, and treats to share, Friday, November 13 at 8 pm in the Sanctuary. A GIFT OF SERVICE TRINITY’S SUNDAY SCHEDULES GREETERS AND USHERS November 1 Ardys 8 Jane 15 Bob & Judy 22 Volunteer Needed 29 Volunteer Needed December 6 13 20 27 Ardys Jane Volunteer Needed Volunteer Needed SCRIPTURE READERS November 1 Ardys 8 Jane 15 Bob 22 Dianne 29 Volunteer Needed December 6 13 20 27 Ardys Jane Volunteer Needed Dianne KIDS’ TIME November 1 8 15 22 29 Volunteer Needed Volunteer Needed Jane Dianne Duet Worship (Volunteer Needed) FELLOWSHIP TIME November 1 Men’s Breakfast Fellowship 8 Church & Society 15 Finance Committee 22 Nominations Committee 29 Duet Council & Evangelism December 6 13 20 27 Fellowship Worship Board of Trustees Education NOTE: Trinity’s Fellowship Time hosts are responsible for making coffee and providing snacks after worship. Please be sure to clean up, empty the trash, and lock the doors after Fellowship Time. ALTAR FLOWERS November 1 8 15 22 29 The Irvine Family Linda The Thorne Family The Segraves Family The Wilser Family ST. JOHN’S WORSHIP MINISTERS November 1 November 8 November 15 November 22 November 29 Linda Baginski, Jim White, Dennis Feick, Ruth Eggen, Sharon Bricker, Linna Harnack Refreshments: Sign up Needed! Walt, Lee, Mickey, Walt & Carol, Refreshments: Jack & Renata Linda, Bruce Chuck & Ruth, Toshiko Refreshments: Sign up Needed! Seiler-Garman Family, Sharon, Marsha, Dorothy, Linna Refreshments: Sign up Needed! Jim, Katie, Dennis, Walt & Carol, Linda Refreshments: Duet Council NOVEMBER 2015 LECTIONARY November 1 All Saints Day Isaiah 25:6-9; Psalm 24; Revelations 21:1-6a; John 11:32-44 November 8 1 Kings 17:8-16; Psalm 146; Hebrews 9:24-28; Mark 12:38-44 November 15 Daniel 12:1-3; Psalm 16; Hebrews 10:11-25; Mark 13:1-8 November 22 Daniel 7:9-10,13-14; Psalm 93; Revelations 1:4b-8; John 18:33-37 November 29 Duet Worship—1st Sunday of Advent Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25:1-10; 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13; Luke 21:25-36 Page 6 NOVEMBER 2015 CALENDARS ST. JOHN & TRINITY Weekly Schedule Sunday Worship, 9:15 am and 11:00 am Duet Worship, 10 am on 5th Sundays Duet Kids’ Sunday School, 9:45 am (Room 2) Duet Youth Sunday School, 9:45 am (2nd & 4th Sunday) Duet Kids’ Music Time, 10:30 am (Chapel) November Events & Meetings 1 Monday Yard Birds Breakfast, 8:00 am Yard Birds Work on Campus, 9:00 am Daylight Saving Time Ends FISH Food Collection Sunday Women & Money Workshop, 1 pm 4 Men’s Breakfast Fellowship, 7 am Tuesday Praise Singers Rehearsal, 6:30 pm (Room 1) 7 38th Annual Junque Sale, 9 am-3 pm 8 Veterans Recognition, 11 am 10 UMW General Meeting, 9:30 13 Free Friday Flick, 8 pm 14 Trinity’s Annual Stewardship Potluck, 5 pm 15 Thursday Duet Prayer Fellowship, 7 pm (Library) St. John Adult Choir Rehearsal, 7:30 pm (Sanctuary) DUET Newsletter Deadline, 8 am 3rd Graders Bible Presentation, 9:15 & 11 am Social Security Workshop, 1 pm 17 Trinity’s Annual Church Conference, 7:30 pm Friday Project Day, 9:30 am (Room 1) Study Group, 3:30 pm (Call the Office for location) 18 Men’s Breakfast Fellowship, 7 am 21 Santa’s Helpers, 9:30 am 24 UMW Circle, 9:30 am 26 Thanksgiving Day, Office Closed Wednesday Men’s Breakfast Fellowship, 7 am (1st & 3rd Wednesday) Project Group, 9 am (Fellowship Hall, 2nd Wednesday) Chime Choir Rehearsal, 6:30 pm (Sanctuary) Trinity Adult Choir Rehearsal, 7:30 pm (Sanctuary) For details about any of these events please see our calendar at www.stjohnsunnyvale.org or www.trinityumcsunnyvale.org You will find an electronic copy of the newsletter there. Duet Ministry Team Meetings Listed in alphabetical order You will find the Duet Ministry on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DuetMinistry Duet Council—November 9, 7:30 pm Education—November 3, 7:30 pm Evangelism—December 8, 6:30 pm Fellowship—November 10, 7:30 pm Social Ministry—January 4, 1:30 pm Worship—November 18, 11:30 am 2015-2016 Duet Worship Schedules Duet Worship services are scheduled throughout the year. Please make a note on your calendar and join us for worship at 10 am on the fifth Sundays. ⦁ ⦁ ⦁ ⦁ ⦁ When you finish reading the DUET, please recycle responsibly. Page 7 November 29 January 31 May 29 July 31 October 30 St. John/Trinity Joint Venture 581 East Fremont Avenue Sunnyvale CA 94087-2743 Non-Profit Organization US Postage Paid Permit No. 039 Sunnyvale CA RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED DATED MATERIAL PLEASE DELIVER BEFORE November 1, 2015 NOVEMBER/December 2015 How to Contact Us You’re Invited! Internet www.stjohnsunnyvale.org www.trinityumcsunnyvale.org www.facebook.com/DuetMinistry November 2015 December 2015 November 1 Daylight Saving Time Ends Women & Money Workshop, 1 pm December 2 Men’s Breakfast Fellowship, 7 am Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] November 4 Men’s Breakfast Fellowship, 7 am Telephone St. John 1-408-739-2625 Trinity 1-408-739-1601 Joint Venture 1-408-739-1601 Fax 1-408-739-2627 November 7 Annual Junque Sale, 9 am-3 pm November 13 Free Friday Flick, 8 pm November 15 Social Security Workshop, 1 pm S’vale Community Players, 2:30 pm November 18 Men’s Breakfast Fellowship, 7 am December 6 Sunnyvale Singers Concert, 4 pm December 11 Free Friday Flick, 8 pm December 13 Children’s Music Program, 10:30 am December 16 Men’s Breakfast Fellowship, 7 am December 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship December 25 Merry Christmas! November 26 Happy Thanksgiving! December 2015 Articles Due November 15
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