Spire 2012

Annual Meeting
Of The Federated Church
Sunday, February 19, 2012
We will celebrate 2011 and look forward to an exciting year to come at the Church’s
Annual Meeting on February 19. The day will begin with two identical worship
services at 8:45 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. The Ensemble, Alive360 musicians, and the Olson
Bell Choir will lead music. Our faith will be nurtured and challenged as we engage with
scripture and Hamilton’s sermon. Following worship, we will gather at the Family Life
Center for lunch at 11:30 a.m. The Colorado Kids will serve spaghetti for which we will
demonstrate our gratitude with a freewill donation. Good food and a good cause all in
one.
The meeting will begin at 12:30 p.m. with a review of the many exciting things
that have happened during 2011. There will be reports about activities, mission,
programs, etc. Financial information for 2011 will be available and we will pass a budget
for 2012. We’ll do a bit of looking forward as well. New leaders will be nominated and
approved to carry forward the two-year discernment period for a new governance
structure which was approved at the January 22 Congregational Meeting.
Many things are changing; in our culture and in the Church. Change can be difficult,
but it can also be exciting and energizing. God is calling us to a renewed vision of what it
means to be the Church in a culture that has changed drastically. Please join with the
rest of your Federated Family as we begin this journey!
Helen Pointer
Chair, Central Council
FEBRUARY AT FEDERATED
Sunday, February 5
Communion
Rev. Hamilton Throckmorton
8:45 & 10:15 - Family Worship & KIDZchurch
FORTE and Children’s Choir at both
services
11:45 Alive360 Family Worship
Alive360 Music Team
Sunday, February 12
Pastor Susi Kawolics
8:45 Worship & Church School
The Ensemble
10:15 Worship & Church School
Chancel Choir
11:45 Alive360 Family Worship
Alive360 Music Team
Sunday, February 19
Presidents’ Weekend
Rev. Hamilton Throckmorton
8:45 & 10:15 - Worship & Church School
The Ensemble, Alive360 Musicians &
Olson Bell Choir at both services
11:30 Spaghetti lunch by The Colorado Kids
Family Life Center, Freewill donation
12:30 Annual Meeting at Family Life Center
Sunday, February 26
Rev. Hamilton Throckmorton
8:45 Worship & Church School
The Ensemble
10:15 Worship & Church School
Chancel Choir
11:45 Alive360 Family Worship
Alive360 Music Team
IN THIS ISSUE
From the desk of Mark Simone ...................... 2
The Lenten Series.......................................... 3
Alive360 ........................................................ 4
Council Highlights ......................................... 4
Inquirers Class ............................................... 4
Weather Related Closings.............................. 5
Children's & Youth Ministries ................... 6 & 7
Spiritual Offerings ................................... 8 & 9
Outreach Programs .......................................9
Federated Happenings ................................ 10
Elderlife Happenings ................................... 11
Notes of Thanks .......................................... 11
February 2012
Page 2
The SPIRE
From the desk of
Associate Minister for Children’s & Youth Ministries
As you likely have noticed, I am back from my three month Sabbatical study
leave (not vacation!!) and once again immersed in my responsibilities at Federated. I love being back at GROUP, our high school weekly meeting, and it’s so
great to “hang with” the children in our Sunday Schools once again. I had forgotten how much I love my ministry at Federated. And I was delighted to be
If you have any questions regarding The SPIRE
back with our talented and wonderful Federated staff, whom I missed, love and
or would like to include something in an
respect. Truth be told, I had a great Sabbatical but I was ready to be back on the upcoming issue, please contact Melinda Smith
at [email protected] or Brenda Driscoll at
job! Big thanks to GROUP advisors Bob, Tony, Lindsay and others who made
[email protected] or call
this happen. Wonderful friends!
440.247.6490 .
I have begun to realize that I have sometimes hesitated when asked about
how my Sabbatical went, which may imply that it was not a good experience. As you may remember, I determined to
study something that interests me deeply, that being the topic of justice. So I read, and I read and read some more. I read
about economic justice, criminal justice, social justice and peace-making, and I dove into the scriptures on the subject. I
talked to people about matters of injustice and read Michael Sandel’s famous book from his Harvard class, Justice. I even
read a book by Jackie Robinson’s daughter on his views about justice! Plus lots of Nelson Mandela and Bishop Tutu. I was
nearly drowning in justice!
And herein is my hesitation when asked about the study time – becoming so highly aware on matters of justice, it is all
too easy to fall into the trap of seeing the massive examples and situations of injustice that surround us. And it dawned on
me, the reason there is so much discussion about justice, is because there is still so much injustice. In fact, my conclusion
is that injustice is winning on most fronts. For every story I came across where justice prevailed, I saw 20 more where
justice lost.
Part of what I came away with can be summed up in two comments: 1. Much of justice is seated in perspective and 2.
There is a need for some authority against which injustice is measured.
A church friend asked me what I thought about the Occupy Movement as a study in justice. The behavior of the 1%
when measured against the needs of the 99%. I dove into this notion head first, fully expecting to completely side with
the 99% (which I still mostly do). However, I could not fully dispense with the realization that there are frameworks in our
government, our society, and in our cultural attitudes that have enabled the 1% to amass so much, and it is mostly legal.
Our structures, which the 99% has allowed all along, are what make it so the 1% can continue to flourish well inside the
law (for the most part.) The easy work is to protest, and again, I am a fan of taking a stand. But the real work comes when
people dedicate themselves to changing the means by which the rich get richer. This takes lots of time, vigilance and
energy. Until the structures of inequality change, there will always be such separations.
The other conclusion was that we have long allowed the primary authority in matters of justice to shift. There has to
be a standard of justice against which injustice is measured. God’s work with Abraham in the Old Testament was to
establish a point of authority in which God would be the means of determining justice. Thus, the 10 Commandments and
the laws given to the Children of Israel. God’s promise was that in these laws there will be a means of determination if an
issue is just or unjust. That was the plan.
Over time, human culture decided that the laws were too stringent, or too archaic, or not expressing “my personal
perspective,” so cultures shifted from the authority point of God’s laws to human laws. It is still a point of authority, now
legislated by policing. However, laws can be changed upon whim by whoever is in power. And most often, not to the
betterment of the larger culture or society. This is part of what has happened in the Arab Spring of 2011. Dictatorial
authority being ousted in hopes of a more democratic system of justice.
I could go on for pages, but I think you get the drift! My study was very valuable and meaningful. And, it must be said,
sometimes overwhelming. I know that I still have lots of thinking to do.
Thank you, Federated Family, for this wonderful provision. It was a marvelous experience.
440.247.6490
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
February 2012
The SPIRE
Page 3
2012 LENTEN SERIES
SIGNPOSTS OF RENEWAL
STUDY AND EXPERIENCE
We are offering again the ONE BOOK—ONE COMMUNITY series, this
year with an experiential component to supplement the topics. Our book
is: “Christianity for the Rest of Us” by Diana Butler Bass. We
will concentrate on six chapters, one per week. These are various
practices that the author highlights as “signposts of renewal” for presentday mainline Protestant churches who are seeking to thrive. You are
invited to join one of the weekly book groups, and/or to come to any of
the Wednesday evening experiences.
STUDY AND DISCUSS—BOOK GROUPS BEGNINNING MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20
Books will be available in Fellowship Hall after services for $15.00.
This is a partial list of groups as of time of printing. Please sign up in Fellowship Hall after services from January
29 on, or by calling the church at 440.247.6490. A complete list will be available soon.
Day / Time
Place
Facilitator
Mondays Noon
Bell Street—Room 350
Susi Kawolics
Mondays 7:00 pm
Harriett’s house: 124 Elm Ct., CF
Harriett Rogers
Wednesdays 9:00 am
Bell Street—Room 350
Janet Peters
Wednesdays Noon
Bell Street - Lounge
Hamilton Throckmorton
Thursdays 7:00 pm
Bell Street—Room 350
Mary Senechal
Sundays 10:00 am
Bell Street-Daily Bread classroom
Kate Parr
EXPERIENCES—WEDNESDAY EVENINGS 7:00 PM, BELL STREET — ALL ARE WELCOME.
Look for more details in bulletins as dates approach.
Date
Theme
Experience
2/22/12
WORSHIP
ASH WEDNESDAY WORSHIP SERVICE—SANCTUARY
2/29/12
TESTIMONY
WITNESSES FROM “TELLING OUR STORY” SHAREFELLOWSHIP HALL
3/7/12
HEALING
3/14/12
CONTEMPLATION
HEALING GATHERING AT THE LABYRINTH CHAPEL AND FELLOWSHIP HALL
CENTERING PRAYER PRESENTATION AND EXPERIENCE
SANCTUARY
3/21/12
BEAUTY
ARTISTS AND MUSICIANS SHARE– FELLOWSHIP HALL
3/28/12
HOSPITALITY
BEGINS AT 6:00 pm—POTLUCK DINNER
IN FELLOWSHIP HALL
440.247.6490
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
February 2012
Page 4
The SPIRE
During February at the Alive360 service held at 11:45 am in the Chapel on Sunday mornings we
continue our Epiphany series, “traveling” to places around the world that connect with Federated
through people in our community and our numerous global missions:
February 5 Brazil Up Close - A journey through photography and song
Amazing photos, stories and songs by Ensemble member and world-traveler, Carl Jenks
February 12 Palestine
Learn about the life of Palestinian Christians as Ruth Garwood and Adrienne Brockway share about their travels in Israel
and Palestine as we together sing ancient songs from this holy land.
February 19 The World in Song!
At the 8:45 and 10:15 services (no 11:45 service this Sunday)- The Alive360 band will combine with The Ensemble and
Olson Bell Choir to present music from around the world for this last week of Epiphany.
We have been journeying around the world at Alive360 through the season of Epiphany. Our guest storytellers, musicians and
speakers have shared their personal testimonies of faith and how the wider world has shaped their experience. We will continue this
series through February 19 and invite you to come experience a fresh perspective on the world through our Sunday morning gatherings.
Alive360 seeks to create a worship experience with and for the whole community. This is expressed every Sunday in our embodied
worship, where everyone is invited (not required!) to participate in singing wonderful songs and to lift joys and concerns in a time of
shared prayer.
Members of the community plan worship as well as lead parts of the service. Lent begins on February 26th and Federated
members have already begun shaping our Lenten services. The planning process continues with a gathering Saturday, February 11,
from 10 am to noon in the Conference Room on Bell Street. We will begin with a light breakfast at 9:30. We would love for you to join
us in envisioning ways to journey and pray through this season of contemplation.
If you have questions or ideas, please contact Ruth Garwood at [email protected]
January Central Council Highlights
JUSTHOPE News
A Mission Growing Right Before Our Eyes!
There are so many ways you can help expand our
Christmas Eve Offering!
You can be part of a Mission Trip to Chacraseca,
Nicaragua (April 28 – May 5) where you can immerse yourself
with our Global Neighbors. We’ll learn about their culture, experience daily life with them, and hear their struggles, hopes,
and dreams. We will visit, work with, and learn from women who
have micro-credit projects, elementary and high school students,
subsistence farmers, and community leaders. We will also help
build a workshop which will house the “Stitching Hope” sewing
and fabric art project in Chacraseca. And, of course, there will be
some time for sightseeing.
If you are not able to travel with us, there are always other
opportunities to be involved. We will need supplies and financial
support as our partnership grows. If you have any questions…
please reach out to Bob Doxey, Marty Culbertson or any member
of the Mission and Outreach Board.
Council received a 2012 pledge update from the Stewardship Committee indicating a shortfall (currently $100,000 as
compared to 2011 levels) and steps to follow up with Federated
members who have not yet turned in a pledge.
Pending the congregation’s affirmation of a two-year
suspension of Constitution Articles VI and VII, Council tentatively
scheduled a Visioning/Leadership workshop for March 17. In
this retreat, all lay leaders will receive instruction and coaching
in support of Federated’s new leadership structure.
The Worship Strategy Task Force will meet January 19.
The “refreshed” group, comprised of clergy, lay and staff
representatives, will evaluate our current worship strategy and
report back to Council with recommendations.
Council acknowledged the significant contributions made
by Lisa Vitantonio in her staff role in Children and Youth
Ministries. Lisa stepped down from her position in December,
but will continue to love and support Federated in her ministries.
Are you looking to deepen your relationship with God?
Have you been nourished here at Federated? Have you found this to be an immensely fun and lively
community of faith? Maybe it is time to seek a deeper connection to this extraordinary church. At Federated, we
focus on transforming lives. And true transformation happens when we join with others in committing
ourselves to God.
Joining Federated is a powerful way to invite Christ into your life. Inquirers Class is the way to explore the
purpose and programs of The Federated Church. Our Winter Class is held on three Thursday evenings 7:00-9:30
pm (Feb. 23, March 1 at Bell St. & March 8 at the Family Life Center) – no need to find a free Saturday! Is this the
opportunity you have been waiting for? Plan to attend all three parts. This class will be received into
membership Sunday, March 18. Sign up at the Reception Desk after worship, by calling the church at
440.247.6490 or by e-mailing Melinda Smith at [email protected].
440.247.6490
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
Inquirers Class
Thursday Evenings
7:00-9:30 pm
Feb. 23 & March 1
at Bell St.
March 8
at Family Life Center
www.fedchurch.org
February 2012
The SPIRE
Page 5
Koinonia Groups are Off and Running
Check out the new Koinonia bulletin board for groups that are in the planning stages and
may be looking for more people who might be interested. The bulletin board is located here
at Federated in the stairwell between the first and second floors.
Contact anyone listed below to join a group:
Bible/Book/Topic Discussion:
Dinner/Wine/Events Out/Travel:
Hiking/Sports/Fitness
Service
Vegan Cooking
Parents of Teenagers
Young Families
Hamlet Village
Linnea Rostek ([email protected] )
Ed & Marilyn Pierson ([email protected] )
Bob & Jan Varnon ([email protected] )
Cindy Barclay ([email protected] )
Mary Ann Leonard ([email protected] )
Sue Kluchar ([email protected] )
Robin Polack ([email protected] )
Karen Perry ([email protected] )
If you have your own idea for a group or would like help in finding a group for you, please fill out a Koinonia Interest Form. Hard
copies of the form are available at the Reception Desk, or go to www.fedchurch.org/koininia to submit an online form. For complete
details about how Koinonia Groups work, look for our full brochure also online.
Questions? Contact Elizabeth Goodin at [email protected] or call 440.498.7494.
Sponsored by the Board of Adult Nurture and Fellowship
Gifts, Passions, Skills (GPS) Ministry Team Update
The 85 surveys received so far have been entered into the church’s database, so that staff
and volunteers have quick, easy access to GPS information with up-to-date contact information. A specific
email address [email protected] has been set up so everyone on the GPS team has access to GPS related
correspondence to and from the congregation.
When the GPS team started this ministry, Federated’s lay leadership voiced a concern that the information would be collected
but not used. Acknowledging this concern, the GPS team wishes to provide the congregation with an update on the GPS ministry. Of
the 85 GPS responders, 73 have been contacted, generally by email, but also with some one-on-one conversations. There have been
approximately 200 referrals to lay leaders for various ministries and activities including ushers and greeters, Bible Study, Memorial
Ministry, Angel Flowers, Angel Rides, Koinonia small group fellowship, helping at Chagrin Falls Park , Stitching Hope discussion, Faith
Witness and mobilizing people for ministry. Unfortunately, not everyone contacted has become involved in a ministry or participated
in an activity. However, some individuals have expressed an appreciation that they received a personal notification in an area of their
specific interest.
Becoming a church of 2000 lay ministers starts with you completing a GPS survey. Completing it does not commit you to
anything, but being invited to explore a ministry at Federated that matches your gift, passion and/or skill. Paper surveys are available
in the church office or you may complete an online survey by using the link: www.fedchurch.org/gps.
It’s not too late to make a New Year’s Resolution to explore a new ministry for yourself. If you have questions, please contact us
at [email protected] or contact anyone on the GPS Team: Elizabeth Goodin, Melinda Smith, Peggie Jo Shinagawa, or Sally Harrold.
PS. We have received a couple of paper surveys where the contact information was not completed. If you turned in a survey and
have not received a thank you email or phone call from the GPS team, please contact the Reception Desk at 440.247.6490.
WINTER
WEATHER
CLOSINGS
When it is necessary to close the Church buildings and cancel
programs due to stormy, icy weather conditions, either at the Bell
Street campus or the Family Life Center campus, Federated’s closing
will be listed on the following:
On the Internet:
www.weathernet5.com/closings
Email Alerts:
sign up at: www.weathernet5.com/closings
On TV and radio stations:
• TV Channels – 3 and 5
• FM Radio Stations - 90.3, 96.5, 98.1, 99.5, 100.7,
103.3, 104.9, 105.7 and 106.5
• AM Radio Stations - 640,1100 and 1350
Note: Federated Church-Bell St is listed under Cuyahoga County while the Federated Church-Family Life Center is listed under Geauga County.
Special Note: Daytime and evening closures are reported independently on the stations listed above. Call the Church at 440.247.6490 after 3:00 p.m.
to find out the status of evening programming or check with stations listed above for an updated status.
440.247.6490
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
February 2012
440.247.6490
The SPIRE
Fifth grade children and their families have a wonderful
opportunity to participate in our Communion classes led by
Reverend Hamilton Throckmorton and Reverend Mark Simone.
Thursday, February 16 & Tuesday, February 21
7:00–8:30pm
Fellowship Hall
5th Grade
Communion
Classes
Children & Youth Ministries
Page 6
Designed with 5th graders and their parents in mind, these
classes focus on the meaning and mystery of this sacrament
and include lecture, dialogue, small group discussion
and fellowship. Children completing the class will be recognized during
Youth Sunday services are March 4.
The Lord’s Supper is at the very core of our faith, making this a most
meaningful step in the religious journey of these children.
Also invited to participate in these classes and Communion are 6th, 7th
and 8th graders and their families who have been unable
to attend in past years or are new to Federated.
Please call Carol Fishell 440.247.6490 x214
(or email [email protected])
to register or with questions.
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
February 2012
The SPIRE
Page 7
Guitars Sought
April 21 6 pm
…for a Fun and Exciting new event!
The Colorado Kids will be hosting
An Art Auction and Supper
Featuring original and reproduction pieces,
as well as art from our own members!
All proceeds will help the kids pay for their
Faith Journey to the Rocky Mountains
Guitar Choir (GC)
Tuesdays
3:30 to 4:30 pm
Family Life Center
GROUP Schedule
february
Feb 5
• Superbowl Sunday so NO regular GROUP.
• Lunch and movie afternoon out. Meet at
the church at 12:30 to car pool to wherever
you want to eat and then a movie at
Chagrin Cinema. Each pays their own way
and we need a minimum of 10 teens.
Feb 12
• Confirmation at the FLC – 10 to 11:30
• GROUPQuake – topic: Fears
Feb 19
• Confirmation at the FLC – 10 to 11:30
• Annual Meeting
• GROUPQuake – topic: Death
Youth Sunday planning
Feb 26
• GROUPQuake – topic: Commitment
Youth Sunday finalizing.
Guitar Choir
• Tuesdays at the FLC. 3:30 to 4:30 pm
Children & Youth Ministries
Do you have an old, forgotten
guitar around the house that needs
some wonderful teenager to play it?
Donate it to the church for Guitar
Choir. GC offers free lessons to our
youth, but some of them cannot
afford an instrument and would
love to use yours. See Mark
Simone for more details. We
can offer you a tax deduction
receipt for your gift.
Coming soon
• GROUffee – (pronounced
Grew-Fee). GROUP’s
weekly coffee night out.
440.247.6490
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
February 2012
Page 8
The SPIRE
Reiki Clinic
In the Chapel at Bell St.
Join us within the calm peace of prayer.
Every 2nd & 4th Monday at 6:15 pm
RSVP to Reception Desk at 440.247.6490
FOR ALL YOGA CLASSES:
Dates: Classes are ongoing from January 9-May 31. You may begin at any
time. There will be no classes on Monday, February 20 or Monday, May 28
or as otherwise noted by individual instructor.
Tuition: $70/any 7 classes or $12 drop-in. First class free for new students!
What to wear/bring: Wear comfortable layers to adjust to your preferred
body temperature and comfort. Bring a yoga mat, blanket and props if
desired or needed.
Registration: You may register online at www.fedchurch.org/tributaries
[payment will be taken by instructor] or in class.
All classes are suitable for beginners.
SANGHA
A Sangha is a group of like-minded people who
come together to meditate and share
their experiences with meditation.
No experience necessary.
The group meets for 30 minutes
each Sunday at 11:15 am,
in Room 310.
For details about any class or for more information regarding
the instructors, you may e-mail us at
[email protected] or visit the church’s website at
www.fedchurch.org.
Every Saturday Morning
Praise Yoga
Presenter: Krysti Lyn
Saturdays from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at Bell St., Lounge
Gathering of MEN
We’d like to have YOU join us any Saturday.
8:00 am (7:30 for donuts)
Church Lounge
All men are invited to this interesting
and spirit-filled gathering.
Yoga in the Spirit of Gentleness
Presenter: Polly Manke
Tuesdays from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. or
Thursdays-from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. at Family Life Center, Youth Room
Renewing and Relaxing Yoga
Presenter: Krysti Lyn
Mondays from 5:30 – 6:45 p.m. at Bell St., Fellowship Hall or
Thursdays from 5:30 – 6:45 p.m.at Bell St., Lounge
Good Grief with
Dick & Jane
Tender Loving Yoga
Presenter: Krysti Lyn
Wednesdays from 10:00 – 11:15 a.m. at Bell St., Lounge
This group meets the 2nd & 4th Monday
at 7:00 pm in the Church Lounge.
Facilitated by Jane Badal and Dick Ziegler,
the group is open to all widowed people.
Each group is completely confidential.
Restorative Yogabody
Presenter: Lorna Nafziger
Tuesdays from 10:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. or
Wednesdays from 8:45 am – 10:00 a.m. or
Thursdays from 7:00 – 8:15 p.m.
at the Family Life Center, Youth Room
Men’s Fourth Tuesday
meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month
in the Lounge ~ 7:30-9:00 pm
All men are invited!
Wednesday Night Meditation Group
Presenter: Polly Manke
Wednesdays from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Bell St., Room 320
No pre-registration necessary. Drop-in only
Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life
Presenter: Judith Majcen
Saturdays, February 4, 11 & 18 from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. at Bell St., Room 350
•Stories of life and faith shared
•Laughter and love, heartaches and joys exchanged
•No problem-solving
•A time and place where men can connect with
other men on a personal and spiritual level.
440.247.6490
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
February 2012
The SPIRE
Page 9
Tai Chi Classes-The Movement of Life
Healing Gatherings at the Labyrinth
~ Begin with a personal sharing about a healing journey ~
Wednesday, February 8
7:00 - 8:30 pm
Bell Street Chapel
Join us for a meditative gathering
around our indoor Labyrinth
Instructor: Sifu Edward Niam, Tai Chi Institute USA
Mondays , 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. at Bell St., Fellowship Hall
Cost: $100/ person or $170/couple for 8-week session
Training consists of the Yang Style Tai Chi-Long Form as
well as exercises from Shaolin Kung Fu and Qi Gong. The
program involves dozens of complex and intricate
movements requiring practice and dedication.
To register, mail a check to
Edward Niam, 118 W. Streetsboro Suite, Suite 224, Hudson, 44236.
Linda Kupiec shares her healing journey
Singing Bowls with Kathleen Calby
Taize Singing
Reiki & prayers for healing
Communion offered in the center
of the Labyrinth
Awakening the Healer Within
with Nutrition & Medical Qi Gong
Free will Offering Accepted
Feel free to bring a blanket
A FREE Lecture by Elieth Ameni Harris.MS, CN, RYT
sponsored by the Koninina Vegan Group
To RSVP call the Reception desk 440.247.6490
Friday, February 10 from 6:00 - 7:30 pm at Bell St., Lounge
Sponsored by
the Board of Adult Nurture and Fellowship
Ameni Harris, Holistic Health Practitioner since 2002, holds an MS in
Clinical Nutrition with post graduate studies in Enzyme Nutrition and
Ayurveda;taught Clinical Nutrition at The University of Bridgeport (CT)
School of Naturopathic Medicine; Hosts a radio show on Alternative
Medicine and Holistic Nutrition. He is also a Nationally certified
Advanced Yoga Teacher.
South Africa News-
Federated remains active in South Africa mission
work, extending our love to make a real difference in the
lives of others. After our June 2011 trip, team member Kate Koberna decided she needed to do something more so she
began a blanket fund and raised $1030, which was wired to our trip leader, Craig Duffield of Port Elizabeth. Craig had
heard of a new squatter camp where about 130 homeless people had congregated to form Erica D. Our team bought and
delivered some goods to aid against the low winter temperatures. Kate took that willingness to help a big step forward.
In the same spirit, after the 2008 mission trip, Mark and Kathy Simone, with friend Sue Steines, also felt a need to
do more. Out of many conversations came Brick by Brick: Building Futures Home and Abroad (www.brickxbrick.org).
Brick by Brick is a non-profit focusing primarily on ways to help South African women and their families. During our 2011
trip we learned that our mission sponsor in Port Elizabeth, the Human Dignity Center, was in the process of building a
school campus, one classroom at a time, near Area Q, where we did much of our mission work. Please visit our website
and learn more of our effort to build that school.
Finally, Federated member, Caroline Young, has returned to our beloved Sparrow Village near Johannesburg, for
another extended stay among the predominately HIV positive children. Federated has much to be proud of as we continue to support these acts with prayer and financial help.
Trinkets 'N Treasures
Federated's Gigantic Indoor Yard Sale
Returns May 3-5, 2012
It's coming again soon – our own dynamite “TNT” sale which raises money for Federated programs and
activities. Here's what you can do NOW to help:
•
Start saving items to donate! Best sellers include household items such as cookware and dishes and small appliances, wall hangings, art work, jewelry, books, toys, arts and crafts supplies, garden tools, electronics, furniture, sports equipment, etc. (Special
“treasures” that are vintage, antique, art, etc. will be priced individually so they make great donations!) Storage is available in
Chesterland for large items you can't keep until the sale. Get the key and map at the Family Life Center or the Reception Desk
at Bell Street. Pickups are scheduled for Jan. 28, Feb. 25 and Mar. 31 if you're unable to transport larger things. Call Wendy
Pierce at 440.247.6490 x401 to schedule.
•
Volunteer to help! This sale takes lots of hands and there are jobs prior to, as well as during the sale. Getting things placed and
priced happens in the week preceding the sale. During the sale help is needed “on the floor,” as well as at the checkouts.
There's a place for everyone and it is a fun event for workers and treasure hunters alike.
If you’d like to volunteer or have any questions, please contact one of the sale co-chairs: Anne Swegan at 440.247.4747
([email protected]) or Liz Manchester at 440.557.5023 ([email protected])
440.247.6490
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
Page 10
February 2012
The SPIRE
Federated Happenings
THE UCC AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Please join the Green Committee in welcoming Rev. Jim Deming,
UCC Minister for Environmental Justice, to Federated, February
26. Rev. Deming will be speaking on issues related to environmental justice and the role of the UCC in the Lounge during the
8:45 and 10:15 services. Rev. Deming strives to develop a grass-roots environmental justice (EJ) movement among the 5000+ congregations of the UCC. He
works with regional and national partners to start a new EJ Center near Seattle
and to develop EJ curriculum and events that can be duplicated in other regions.
There will be time set aside for Q & A, so feel free to bring your questions.
LET’S CELEBRATE PAT NICHOLS
Pat Nichols has been a faithful presence in the Church Office since 1988.
Everyone at Federated knows Pat and she knows everyone. After almost 24 years,
she has the answers to almost every question that comes up. And SHE’S RETIRING!!
Her last day of work will be February 17; but we can’t let her go without
celebrating wonderful Pat and all she is and has been for us and for Federated. We’ll
have a “Celebrate Pat Party” Sunday afternoon, February 26 at 1 p.m. in Fellowship
Hall at Bell Street.
Mark your calendar now and be sure to add your voice to the “Thank You’s”!!
HOSTING HOMELESS FAMILIES
"Volunteering is an act of heroism-it's an act of heroism on a grand
scale. And it matters profoundly. It does more than help people
beat the odds. It changes the odds."
VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP: We can help save families in peril just
by doing our part. Once again Federated Church, working with
Family Promise of Greater Cleveland, is hosting homeless
families from March 18 -31 at the Family Life Center. Please
mark your calendar now. We need many volunteers to provide
meals , as well as helping hands, so please volunteer to help in
your own way. Sign-up boards will be posted by the Reception
Desk in the Bell Street lobby starting February 12. Many hands
make light work, and together we can be the change that is
needed in our world.
CALL FOR ASSISTANT COORDINATORS: Assistant
Coordinators are sorely needed for various areas of hosting our
families in March: Meals, Volunteers, Laundry, Groceries,
Set-Up, Take-Down, Welcome Baskets and Evening Activities. If
you can help coordinate, please volunteer (or find out more) by
calling our Coordinator Sally Fogarty at 440.488.1079.
SOUP AND A MOVIE
Join the Green Committee for a little
dinner theater. We will start with a
nice soup supper and then watch
Earth: The Operator’s Manual.
February 24-6:30pm for soup supper with movie to
start at 7:00pm, Bell Street, Lounge
Pre-registration would be appreciated.
Please contact Thea Mozingo at
440.343.1375 or [email protected] .
Women’s Fellowship Salad Luncheon
Tuesday, February 14
11:45 am
Fellowship Hall
Please bring a salad to share.
Dessert will be provided.
Carol Grubb will give a presentation
on the history of the Underground Railroad and
the Quilt blocks used as codes during that time.
Anne Masters will be our storyteller.
Also, plan to bring your toiletries for the
St. Paul’s Outreach bags and white tube socks, too.
Reservations are needed by February 10.
Please contact Lynne Kessell at 440.247.5544.
440.247.6490
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
The SPIRE
February 2012
Page 11
XÄwxÜÄ|yx happenings
@ Federated Forum
Feb. 13, 2:00 pm
Bell St., Fellowship Hall
Want to be Healthier, Happier &
Smarter? Get Outside.
Presenter: Dawn Wrench
Upcoming trips:
Trip To Akron Art Museum –
Thursday, Feb. 2
Trip to West Side Market & Lunch @
The Market Cafe
Wednesday, Feb. 15
@Monthly Luncheon & Program $25 payment by Feb. 6
Feb. 23, 12:30pm
Trip to Kent State University to see On
Family Life Center-Featuring
the Home Front—Civil War Fashion &
Progressive Field Dixieland Band
Domestic Life
$8 payment by Feb. 15
Thursday, March 1
$27 payment which includes lunch
@ Special Lunch & Program
Feb. 27, noon
For details about any Elderlife
Bell St., Fellowship Hall
activity, pick up a yellow Elderlife newsletFrauds and Scams that Threaten
ter or call the Reception Desk to get onto
Seniors
the mailing list.
Presenter: Det. Tim Reed,
Lisa Braun, Elderlife Coordinator,
Chagrin Falls Police Department
440.247.6490 x160
Dear Federated Family,
My thanks to all for the lovely plant/flower arrangement on the
altar Jan. 8, commemorating my 45 years as Altar Chairman. The
plants will long remind me of your love and generosity.
I have a letter written to me by Rev. John Townsend on Sept. 28,
1967 thanking me for my year as Altar Chairman and urging me to
accept the nomination for the following year. Don’t recall being
approached again. The rest is history.
Performing the duties of Altar Chairman is a ministry in itself,
talking to 52 donors a year, sharing joyous occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, etc., and offering loving, caring
support for trying times.
So now I pass the torch to the very capable, caring Sue Mansour
and wish her years of enjoment—
perhaps 45 plus years?
God’s Blessings to all involved
in this vital ministry.
Peace,
Janet Peters
Scrumptious Hough
Bakery Chocolate
Valentine Pops
Place your orders now for
these creamy sensations
available in milk, dark and white chocolate. The cost is $3 per pop.
All proceeds benefit St. Paul’s Community
Church and Ohio City Power. Friends of St.
Paul’s earn a small portion of the profits, as
well as learn the importance of teamwork and
accountability and we all have fun!
Betty Ryan and Frances Slate of Federated’s Elderlife Ministry donate their precious
time to make the pops. Their efforts are priceless!
Orders will be taken through Sunday, February 12 by contacting Lisa Braun,
440.247.6490 x160 or
[email protected]. Look for Lisa in
Fellowship Hall following worship service .
Below are excerpts from a few notes of thanks we have
received from individuals and families who have been touched
by expressions of support, prayers offered, or acts of kindness
by Federated Church members or groups. The full thank you
notes will be posted on the bulletin board located at the base of
the red stairs.
To Our Federated Family,
My daughters, Melissa and Mimi, and I want you all to know how
much your support has meant to us during the illness and death of
Marylyn. Your prayers, your notes and cards, your inspirational
comments, your phone calls, and your personal visits all helped to
ease the pain of our loss. ...
Thank you, friends, for all your
support! Please continue to keep
us in your prayers.
Love,
Dale Richmond
Notes of Thanks
Dear Federated Family,
As staff here at Federated, we want to thank the members and
friends of the church who so generously contributed to the bonus
we all received at worship services on Sunday, January 8. It was a
wonderful gift, and we so appreciate your thoughtfulness and care
for us. We look forward to another exciting year to come as we
continue to worship and serve together. May God bless you abundantly even as we have been so richly blessed.
The Federated Church Staff
440.247.6490
Dear Federated Church family,
Thank you for your prayers, thoughts, calls, emails and get well
wishes for Mike after his hand injury. ...
Heather & Michael Gayelit
[in response to a visit to Hamlet by the Federated Sixth Graders
where they passed out cookies and lap blankets made in class]
Dear Friends,
Your caring and sharing made my Christmas week very special
and expressed God’s grace and love. Thank you so very much.
Love,
Hazel Hooker
THE FEDERATED CHURCH
www.fedchurch.org
VOL. 63
N O . 2 FEBRUARY 2012
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Hamilton Coe Throckmorton, Senior Pastor
Mark Simone, Assoc. Pastor, Children & Youth Ministries
*Susi Kawolics, Interim Associate Pastor
*Trish Rouru, Coordinator of Administration
Toni Cirino, Financial Manager
*Wendy Pierce, Director of the Family Life Center,
Director of Marketing
*Lisa Braun, Elderlife Coordinator
*Bev Krofta, Director of Children’s Ministries, Infant-K
*Carol Fishell, Dir. Children’s Ministries, Gr. 1-6
*Marty Culbertson, Junior High Youth Program Dir.
*Marcia Snavely, Organist
*Bill Foley, Dir. of Chancel Choir & Men of Chagrin
*Pat Haynish, Children’s Music Ministry Coordinator
Amanda Powell, Music Dir. of The Ensemble,
Alive360 Music Team & FORTE
*Ruth Garwood, Alive360 Coordinator
*Pat Nichols, Pastoral Care Assistant
Melinda Smith, Congregational Life Administrator
*Brenda Driscoll, Communications Specialist
Larry Trace, Properties Manager
*Bryan Kinches, Larry McGurer, *Don Newrones,
*Mike Swigonski, *Derek Volk, Gordon Vojtech,
Custodians
*Tosh Whaley, “God’s House” Keeper
*Bill Cale, Family Life Center Groundskeeper
* Part-time Staff