May Big Events - Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church

The
SCRIBE
A monthly publication of Sugar Creek
Presbyterian Church (USA)
May Big Events

May 1, 10am Kirkmont Special Offering
(Please see details on page 4.)

May 7, 9:30am Serving House of Bread
(Sign up in the Cove!)

May 7, 9:30am Church Women United May Friendship
Day
(See page 16 for more details.)

May 15, 10am Pentecost Offering/Confirmation/
McKelvey Scholarship

May 15, 11:15am Graduation Brunch after Worship
(See below for details; a list of graduates can be found on page 12.)

May 22, 11:15am Cookie Walk

May 22, 1:30pm Film Workshop with Ed McNulty
(See details on page 7.)
(See page 6 for more details.)

May 29, Farewell Reception for Garrigans
(Please see details on page 15.)

Inside This Issue:
From the Pastor ............... 2
Birthdays .......................... 3
Directory Updates ............ 3
Thanks ............................. 3
Buildings & Grounds ........ 4
Christian Nurture ............. 4
EPPIC .............................. 9
Cong. Fellowship ............ 12
Deacon News .................. 13
Financial Resources ........ 14
Human Resources ........... 15
Session Highlights ........... 15
Presbytery Women .......... 16
Pieces of the Past ............ 17
May Calendar .................. 21
May 30, Memorial Day ~ Office Closed
Graduate Brunch Celebration
The entire congregation is invited to honor our SCPC
high school and college graduates. There will be a
celebratory brunch featuring sausage/egg casseroles,
fruit, muffins, juice, and coffee in the Fellowship Hall
immediately following worship on Sunday, May 15.
Each high school student will have a small table on which to display their high
school mementos and/or college decisions. Please RSVP for the brunch on the
blue sheets located in the bulletins on Sunday, May 1 and May 8. Please contact
Christina Suppo at 701-3084 if you need further information. We hope to have a
huge turnout for this special occasion!
Issue 5
May 2016
Rev. Dr. John J. Skelly,
Interim Pastor
Jessie Fleeman,
Editor
Join in a Card Shower for our Confirmands!
On Sunday, May 15, during the worship service several youth will publicly
profess their faith in Jesus Christ. You are invited to offer your blessing and
encouragement to them by writing a note or card. Those participating in the
Confirmation Class are: Matthew Excoffon, Alec Gouge, Ethan Marcus, Cassidy
McCullough, Keith Rhinehart, Zach Schultz, and Eli Williams.
Connecting in Christ’s friendship
Growing in God’s grace
Serving where the Spirit sends
4417 Bigger Rd, Kettering OH 45440-1698 ~ 937/298-3743 ~ www.sugarcreekchurch.org
Where’s the Creek?
(“there is Life After Easter” part 2 edition)
27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your
hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
Jesus said it. I read it…we gathered at the graveside of a saint of the community. The Women of the
Church (old PCUS) feared the loss of her talents. The Presbytery Congregational Life Committee grew anxious
about the various projects for which she had taken leadership responsibility. Her fellow church members felt
the loss of her presence deeply. She had always been there through the congregation’s 25 years. They took
pride in the fact that she had been elected the first woman to serve on the Session. She had become a symbol of
the congregation’s forward looking vision. What now? What would happen next? As the group, now become
crowd, drew close to her family; in that moment of quiet respectful hush; as the sun filtered through the
blooming dogwoods just above; as thoughts wondered and wandered; as hearts balanced between hurt and
hope; the brief service began. “Peace be with you!”
In this time after Easter and before Pentecost the disciples lost their footing. They gathered restlessly.
Thoughts wondered and wandered. Hearts balanced between hurt and hope. In due season, in God’s time, they
remember Jesus. They see the Lord! They experience His presence. He speaks the words. “Peace be with you!”
Some years Gospel John’s “Pentecost” speaks to me more powerfully than Luke-Acts. Jesus leans in
closely to his anxious, fearful, grieving disciples and speaks as a mother comforting her child saying: “Peace
be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” 22When he had said this, he breathed on them and said
to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. ”
So in this time between, in this “meantime”, we listen and hear His voice!
25
”I have said these things to you while I am still with you. 26But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom
the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you.
27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your
hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
28
You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I am coming to you.’ If you loved me, you would rejoice
that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. 29And now I have told you this before it
occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe. John 14 (selected verses)
From Celtic Women to the Notre Dame Folk Choir, to the edge of faith in the depths of my heart, in all our
days between Easter and Pentecost… “How Can I Keep From Singing”? Because we have the peace of Christ!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9hth14hokI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AkxqzwOnag
2
We remember those hospitalized/had surgeries: Roger Kemp, Phyllis Henry, Fred Feicht,
Brenda Saunders, Melvin Padilla and Christa Freeman. We celebrate with George and Tish
Lamb (and mother, Rebecca Joy) on the birth of their granddaughter, Zoe Joy Lamb-Homa,
born on April 13, 2016, weighing 7 lb. 8 oz.
(We made every effort to note member births, deaths, weddings, and hospitalizations through April 15th. If we have omitted someone, please
notify the office, so we can make a correction.
May Birthdays
Darren Kemp
Aimee Lamb
John Henry, Jr.
Megan Mudersbach
Lilliana Garrigan
Susanne Morgan
Nick Aultz
Fred Feicht
5/1
5/2
5/3
5/4
5/4
5/5
5/5
5/6
Lillary Staley-Malenic
Karen Wright
Tori Statt
Bill Henry
Marylou Somogyi
Mason Hughes
Brian Mauntel
Chloe Wampler
5/6
5/8
5/9
5/14
5/14
5/14
5/16
5/20
Sherry Baker
Leslie Spivey
Amanda Kerns
Alana Armstrong
Ann Cunningham
Amy Mundhenk
Amy Ford
5/22
5/22
5/22
5/22
5/26
5/27
5/28
(The format for birthdays has been changed to columns instead of rows. We hope this format makes it easier for you.
We make every effort to note birthdays. If we have omitted someone, please notify the office, so we can make a correction.)
Please make the following changes to your membership directory:
Bob & Marty Neitman
[Trinity Community]
3218 Indian Ripple Rd. Unit #20
Dayton OH 45440-3669
Ph: 937-306-8665
Please call (298-3743) or email ([email protected]) the church office with any changes of
your address, phone or email. Also, anytime you would like to have a current church directory, please
contact Jessie at the office.
THANK YOU MESSAGES
To the congregation:
It felt good to be back in church on Sunday, April 17 after 2 months in the hospital and rehab. I thank you
all for your cards and prayers. After a quadruple bypass I am still weak and wobbly. It is a real experience
driving for the first time after 2 months in bed. Thank you for your support.
Terry Mundhenk
Dear Sugar Creek Church,
We are very grateful for the Sugar Creek 2016 Souper Bowl offering gift of $319.25 and your support of
the ministries of St. Vincent de Paul. Our methods are simple. We welcome all who come to us. We extend to
each of them a hand of assistance, shelter and hope. We house them just as quickly as we can. That’s why
your gift means so much. It gives us the resources we need to do God’s work. God bless you and thank you
again for your support of St. Vincent de Paul.
David Bohardt,
Executive Director
3
BUILDING & GROUNDS
A Note from B&G:
Our building has over 17,000 square feet. That is about 10 average size homes. So, we can expect it to
take significant time and money to maintain.
B&G Trivia
For fun, each month we will include two trivia questions for you. See if you know
the answers.
1. How many neighboring properties adjoin ours, crossing no streets, except Powers Lane?
2. How many total AT&T phone lines do we have?
CHRISTIAN NURTURE
Family Ministry
Kirkmont Camp Special Offering
Sugar Creek has a great reputation of sending the most campers to our summer camp, Kirkmont Center,
and for sponsoring all of our campers by paying 50% of their camper fees. On May 1 we will once again be
having a special offering during the Worship service to raise the needed funds to send our children to camp.
We sent 26 campers last year which totaled over $4000, and we’re hoping to raise at least $2500 this year
(the remainder comes from the McKelvey Camps & Conference Fund). The Christian Nurture commission
thanks the congregation in advance for generously supporting this very important faith formation experience
of outdoor camping!
Kirkmont Registration Forms Due
Registration and medical forms for this year’s summer Camp at Kirkmont are due to Wendy on Monday,
May 9 with a deposit check of $75, MADE PAYABLE TO KIRKMONT CENTER. Any questions about camps
should be directed to Wendy, and she will also help your child pair up with another child for cabent sharing if
needed.
If you choose to do on-line registration, you MUST let Wendy know, as well as fill out the blue campership
form. Listed below is the 2016 schedule:
You & Me Camp June 11-12 (ages 3-10, with adult) $60 per person
Beginners Camp June 19-22 (completed grades K-3) $250
PYC Junior Camp June 19-24 (completed grades 3-6) $400
PYC Camp June 26-July 2 (completed grades 7-12) $400
Robotics Camp June 26-July 2 $400
Camp Rejoice July 10-16 (completed grades 3-12) $400
Service Camp July 17-23 (12 and over) $500
Kids Camp July 16-18 (completed grades K-3, with adult) $140 per person
Sports Camp July 17-22 (completed grades 3-7) $400
Adventure Camp July 24-29 (completed grades 3-7) $400
Trivia Answers:
1. Ten. Four are on Jonathon Drive, west of our 3 acre woods.
2. Four lines. Two for voice, one for FAX, one for the elevator. (Internet is by Time Warner Cable.)
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CHRISTIAN NURTURE (Cont.)
Family Ministry (Cont.)
VBS Surf Shack…Catch the Wave of God’s Amazing Love
Surf Shack is our theme for the upcoming VBS 2016, where children
will experience God’s amazing love, explore God’s mission for their lives,
encounter powerful water stories from the Bible and discover ways to
live out God’s amazing love! Please mark your calendars now for the week
of June 6-10 for an exciting week of exploring how to use their whole
selves to follow God in new, active ways! Registration has begun and the cost per child (4 years of age
through the 5th grade) will be $10.00.
Important things to remember for Surf Shack VBS:
 Registration continues in the Cove; only 1 form needed per family!
 Cost per child is $10 each, which includes a t-shirt and one CD of the music per family for all preregistered children (cost break for families with more than 3 children)
 The time will begin at 6 pm with opening assembly and worship music, and will conclude each night
by 8:30 pm.
 The All Volunteer Training is set for Sunday, May 1 following Worship, at 11:15.
 We are once again accepting financial donations to purchase the snacks ($200) and the Family Fun
Night ($300). If you’d like to contribute to any of these specific costs, please see Wendy.
 Our mission focus, children helping children, will raise funds for Snuggled Up, a 501-C3 organization
that purchases portable cots and bedding for families whose children have no bed, and are often
sleeping on the floor. We will also be collecting hygiene items for a new pantry that is beginning at
the Miracle Makers after school program, located at Ruskin School (we purchased sports equipment
for their after school program last year)
Lastly, the VBS ministry is blessed to have over 85 volunteers (youth and adults) each year that commit
their hearts and time to the 90+ children who come each night. As we continue to be good stewards of our
church budget, we will once again collect $7 per youth/adult leader to cover the cost of the leaders’ t-shirts.
Wendy will begin collecting this money on Sunday, May 1 at the All Volunteer Training.
Set Creation Days
Creating the atmosphere for VBS is one of the exciting parts of Surf Shack. We need plenty of adult
volunteers to help paint, build, cut out and organize materials so no special skills are needed, just a willing
and cheerful heart, and the ability to laugh. Please let Wendy know if you can help with any of the set days
listed below:
 May 14
 May 21
 May 28
 June 4
5
CHRISTIAN NURTURE (Cont.)
Family Ministry (Cont.)
Jesus Christ Movie Star
A Film and Faith Workshop
You are invited to come to a workshop based on the new book Jesus Christ Movie Star at 1:30 pm on
Sunday, May 22, at Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church led by local author Dr. Edward McNulty. All who read
the Gospels and enjoy movies will find the session interesting, helpful (specially if they teach or lead groups),
and even inspiring.
The workshop will take a hard look at some of the major films produced in Hollywood and Europe dealing
with the life and times of Jesus of Nazareth, including the one scheduled to open May 13 at local theaters,
starring Ewan McGregor, Last Days in the Desert. This film should prove to be an unusual one in that the star
plays not only Jesus, but the Devil as well. There also will be an opportunity for participants to interact with
the leader and with each other.
The presentation will also explore films in which a character is similar in various ways to Christ, such as
Babette’s Feast, Broadway Danny Rose, Cool Hand Luke, and others.
Cost of the 2-1/4 hour workshop is $25 for those registering by May 16, and $30 afterward. The fee
includes a copy of the book (Amazon Book price: $17.99 + postage). The book explores and provides
discussion questions for 12 films plus a survey of Jesus films through 2015.
Churches and groups are welcome to bring additional members, the fee (without a book) being $10 a
person. The participants can then form the core of a film group back at their own church. Participants will
receive enough ideas and material for a year of good viewing and exploration of theological and moral issues.
Dr. McNulty, who earned his Doctor of Ministry in art, film and theology at Dayton’s United Theological
Seminary, is a nationally known author (this is his 14th book), speaker and workshop leader, as well as a
weekly film reviewer. Over 1200 of his film reviews can be read at http://www.readthespirit.com/visualparables/. He and his wife Sandra recently moved back to the Dayton area where during the 90s he pastored
a church and founded his film and theology journal Visual Parables.
Those wanting more information and a registration form can send an email to [email protected].
6
CHRISTIAN NURTURE (Cont.)
All Volunteer Training for VBS
On Sunday, May 1 after Worship at 11:15, there will be a brief but VERY important meeting for all
volunteers who are involved with the ministry of Vacation Bible School. No matter what your role is, it is
important to come to the meeting to find out the details of the overall theme, the Bible stories, changes in
the set up and design, and to build excitement among the team members.
VBS Music Practices for Youth
Parents, please make sure your youth who are participating in the music portion of VBS know that our
first practice is Sunday, May 15 from 4-5 pm! Also, mark your calendars for Sunday, May 22 (4-5:00 pm) and
Sunday, June 5 (4-5:30 pm) for practices with the VBS Band.
Donated Items Needed for Surf Shack
The set design team, craft team and science team are looking for the following donations for our VBS:
empty Altoid cans; empty 2 liter clear bottles with lids; coupons to Jo-Ann Fabrics; and we would love to
borrow from anyone who has a boogie board or surf board! Please let Wendy know if you have any of these
items.
VBS Mission: Children helping children
Each year, an important focus for VBS is mission, helping the children learn how to grow as servants of
God. This year is no exception, and our children (and their families!) will have an opportunity to help other
children who are their neighbors, here in Dayton. We will be supporting two organizations this year: Snuggled
Up and Miracle Makers. Our financial donations will support the Snuggled Up ministry who provide cots
and bedding to children in need, who do not have a bed to sleep in, and have had to leave their home and all
of their possessions. The cost per bed/cot kit is $110, and we are hoping to be able to purchase at least 10
kits.
The second ministry we are supporting with VBS is the Miracle Makers, an after school program at Ruskin
School in Dayton. Last year for G-Force VBS, we purchased outdoor sports equipment that they use for their
summer program, as well as donating over 450 books to the children! This year, they have asked us if we can
help them grow their small pantry that serves their children and families, with hygiene items. Items we are
hoping to collect include:
Hygiene Items
Deodorant
Tooth paste
Diapers
Laundry detergent
Body Soap
Tooth brush
Baby wipes
Lysol spray cleaner
Shampoo & conditioner
Sanitary napkins
Toilet paper
Dish detergent
Children’s Ministry News
t.y.p. End of Year Picnic ~ May 12
Please mark your calendars for Thursday, May 12 for our annual End of the
Year Picnic of t.y.p. Our time together will be at the Church, beginning at 4:15
pm with “Minute to Win It” games, prizes and fun! We invite parents and
families to join us at 6 pm for a picnic dinner, and please bring a covered dish to share ~ hot dogs,
beverages , and dessert will be provided. Please RSVP at the t.y.p. registration table. This is always an
important way that we celebrate our journey of discipleship together, and honor those who have committed
much time and love for our children! We also recognize the outgoing 6 th graders who are moving on to EPPIC
as a part of their discipleship journey.
7
CHRISTIAN NURTURE (Cont.)
KCC (Kids with Christian Character) Volunteers Needed for Summer
Each Sunday in the summer, beginning May 22, we offer a video series for our 3 year olds through 5 th
graders in the classroom downstairs that is used for GYD and t.y.p. The video is provided, as well as snacks.
We need one adult and one youth to volunteer each week to facilitate the time. Please see the sign-up sheet
in the Cove.
Children’s Ministry
DATES TO REMEMBER IN MAY & JUNE
May 1
May 1
May 8
May 9
May 12
May 14
May 15
May 15
May 21
May 22
May 28
June 4
June 5
June 5
Kirkmont Special Offering (Worship)
VBS All Volunteer Training (11:15 am)
Worship ~ Angels Sing
Deadline for Kirkmont Registrations
t.y.p. Final Day & Picnic
VBS Set Day #2 (10-2 pm)
Worship ~ Confirmation; Salt & Light Sing
VBS Music Practice (4-5 pm)
VBS Set Day #3 (10-2 pm)
VBS Music Practice (4-5:00 pm)
VBS Set Day #4 (10-2 pm)
VBS Final Set Day & Set Up (10 am)
Worship ~ VBS Gear Up! Sunday (10 am)
VBS Music Practice (4-5:30 pm)
8
CHRISTIAN NURTURE (Cont.)
Youth Ministry
5/1
5/8
5/15
5/22
5/29
EPPIC SNAC at Sugar Creek (6-8:30PM)
NO EPPIC SNAC (Mother’s Day)
EPPIC SNAC at Sugar Creek (6-8:30PM)
Confirmation Sunday during worship
Graduation Celebration Sunday after worship
EPPIC Cookout (5-7PM) (see page 10 for details)
NO EPPIC SNAC (Memorial Day weekend)
EPPIC Summer Kick Off Party: June 5
It’s time to welcome our incoming 7th graders and start our summer fun! Since many of
the youth will be involved with VBS music, we will begin our event at 5:30 (following music
rehearsal which is 4-5:30) at the Church. If your youth is not involved in the music portion of
VBS, please drop them at the Church at 5:30, and we will enjoy a pizza dinner together
before heading to Magic Castle on Wilmington Pike. We will have fun with putt-putt golf as
well as their Water Wars balloon launching, so dress appropriately. We will end by 8:00 pm, and parents
should pick up their youth at Magic Castle. The cost per student is $5.00, payable that evening to Wendy.
High School Mission Trip to Milwaukee
From June 12-18, 17 youth and 4 adults will be travelling to Milwaukee, WI to serve the needs of others
who are hurting and need the message of hope in this inner city area that is still segregated in many ways.
We will be serving through construction projects and relational ministry. Please pray for:





Traveling mercies
Good health & safety for all team members
That God would bind us together as a team
That we would be a blessing to others through our work and our words
That God would give us strength, energy and joy in serving
Youth Participants: Abby Schultz, AJ Johns, Alana Armstrong, Alec Martin, Allison Gouge, Ben Kreitzer,
Cate O’Malley, Christian Peters, Elizabeth Worthen, Grace O’Malley, Jonathan Bennett, Mary McCullough,
Nathan Excoffon, Samantha Roca, Seth Ford, Zach Schultz and Zach Wright
Adult Leaders: Wendy Berkshire, Michelle Gouge, Tony Peters and Jack Riddell
Cookie Walk to Support High School Mission Trip
A cookie walk for the congregation will take place after Worship on Sunday, May 22 in
the Commons. Youth who will be participating in the Milwaukee Mission Trip will be selling
homemade cookies to the congregation $5 per pound. All proceeds will be given to the youth to offset the
costs of their mission trip. Please see Cindy McCullough or Wendy Berkshire if you have any further
questions.
Attention Parents of Youth: any youth who would like to bake will get together on Saturday, May 21 at 11
am with Cindy McCullough to bake cookies for the Cookie Walk. This will also be during the VBS set day, so
they can paint a little and bake a little! Please let Wendy know if your youth would like to participate.
9
CHRISTIAN NURTURE (Cont.)
Middle School Mission Week ~ June 21-24
A week of service in the local community, the Middle School Mission week
invites all youth entering the 7th grade through rising 9th graders to participate in
service projects around Dayton. The schedule begins at 9 am each day, through
4:00 pm (Tuesday – Thursday) and on Friday, we end with a pool party at Mark &
Diane Brunn’s house until 5:30 pm!
Details to become involved:
 Signed Permission form and $15 to Wendy by June 10
 Middle schoolers are encouraged to invite a friend to serve
 For updates, text MSmission to 555888

As of this writing, we will be serving at the following locations: Hannah’s Treasure Chest, the
House of Bread, 5 Rivers MetroParks, One Lincoln Park, First Dawn Food Pantry, the Miracle
Makers children’s camp at Ruskin School and at our Church with the Rummage Sale!
Mission Trip Worship Experience
On Sunday, July 10, the youth who participate in the Mission Trip to Milwaukee, as well as the Middle
School Mission week, will lead worship. They will be sharing about their mission experiences, where they saw
God at work and how it is growing their discipleship in Jesus. Please be sure to join the youth in Worship on
July 10.
EPPIC Summer Fun
The next summer fun experience will be Sunday, July 10, when we will go to the drivein movies! We will meet at Church at 6:30 pm, and travel to the Dixie Drive-In and enjoy a
bunch of popcorn, treats and 1.5 movies (or so!). We will return to the Church at
midnight. The cost per youth is $8.00 and you must RSVP to Wendy by July 3 so that
enough drivers can be secured. Youth should bring a blanket or camp chair.
Cook Out for Youth and Families!
The Christian Nurture Commission is planning a cook out for all youth and their families to celebrate our
ministry together with Carmen, Sean and their children! This cook out will be a special time for parents and
youth to have a chance to talk, share, encourage and celebrate together the past 5 years. The details include:






Where: Sugar Creek
When: Sunday, May 22
Time: 5-7 pm
Bring: Covered dish to share
Provided: hot dogs, beverages and dessert
RSVP: to Wendy Berkshire, Director of Family Ministries
10
CHRISTIAN NURTURE (Cont.)
Youth Ministry Photos from PYC 2016
11
CONGREGATIONAL FELLOWSHIP
Retirees’ Lunch Bunch  May - September 2016
The following is a list of restaurants that the Lunch Bunch will be visiting during May through
September 2016. Lunches start at 11:30 am on the second Tuesday of each month.
May 10
First Watch (Town & Country)
643-4077
June 14
Cherry House Café (Beavercreek) 320-6200
July 12
Applebee’s (Delco Park)
Aug 9
Bob Evans (Dorothy Lane/Valleywood) 293-3222
Sept 13
Red Lobster (Dayton Mall)
643-0699
433-0940
All retirees are invited to join us for fun, food and fellowship. A sign-up sheet will be in the Cove each
month for you to sign up for that month’s lunch. If at any time you need a ride, please put “ride” beside
your name on the sheet. For questions please contact Joyce Kemp at 299-9236.
Graduates Brunch on May 15
Sugar Creek High School 2016 Graduates
1. Jonathan Bennett will graduate from Fairmont High School on May 19. He is planning on joining the
Marine Corps this summer.
2. Matthew Berlon will graduate from Fairmont High School on May 19. Matt will attend Ohio State
University in Columbus and earn a degree in Sports Marketing.
3. Aaron Cimprich will graduate from Fairmont High School on May 19. Aaron will be going to Sinclair
College to get his nursing degree.
4. Ben Kreitzer will graduate from Bellbrook High School on May 21. Ben is planning to go to Bowling
Green University in Bowling Green, Ohio, but his major is undecided.
5. Charlotte Lamb will graduate from Fairmont High School on May 19. Charlotte will attend Sinclair
College to complete her basic courses in order to transfer to a four-year university. She is studying CSI
Forensics.
6. Hannah Witt will graduate from Fairmont High School on May 19. Hannah will attend Sinclair
College for two years for an associate degree in nursing. She then will transfer to Wright State
University for four years to earn a Master’s Degree in nursing in the trauma field.
Sugar Creek College 2016 Graduates
1. Payne Ball will graduate from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio on April 30 with a degree in Civil
Engineering. Payne will continue his education by going to the University of Cincinnati for a graduate
degree.
2. Mason Hughes graduated from Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio on December 20, 2015 with
a degree in Sociology. Mason is moving to Madison, Wisconsin to work on a fund-raising project for
PBS (the Public Broadcasting System).
3. Abbey Mauch will graduate from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio on April 30 with a degree in
Psychology. Abbey will continue her education by attending Miami University in Oxford, Ohio to earn
a Master’s Degree in School Psychology.
4. Sophie Mauch will graduate from the Aveda Institute in Columbus, Ohio on May 5 with a degree in
Cosmetology. In June, Sophie will begin working for Kenneth’s Hair Salon in Columbus.
5. Alicia Nitsch will graduate from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts on May 6 with a
Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. After a trip to Europe in June, Alicia will begin working
for an architectural and engineering firm in Boston.
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DEACONS
The Deacons Are Ready to Help. The Key Deacon is the Deacon who is primarily responsible for attending
to the needs of the hospitalized members/friends of the congregation. Also, when the pastor is away, the
Key Deacon (along with the on-call pastor) is available to assist with any other special needs or concerns. The
Transportation Deacon is available to meet any church-related transportation needs. Key Deacon for May 1
-15 is Debb Ellington (513-217-1194); Key Deacon for May 16-31 is Abigail Staley Elton (648-0180).
Transportation Deacon: Debbie Ellington (513-217-1194).
Healing Touch Sessions are available at the church on the second Thursday of the month. For
more information, or to schedule a time, please contact Lois Milligan (513-855-4178).
Discovering Stephen Ministry
Have you ever been lost? Not the "I need a GPS" kind of lost, but the feeling that you
just don't know what to do? Maybe you have recently lost your spouse or maybe you have
become an empty nester. Maybe you are in a relationship that is not healthy and you don't
know what to do next.
Have you ever felt lonely? Maybe new to a town and not knowing how to find your way.
Perhaps you have a newly diagnosed medical condition and feel there is no way out.
Even if one of the above scenarios does not describe you, I am sure you have had a time in your life when
you wished there was someone who would listen to you. Truly care, focusing on you, and really listening just
to you.
All of us will face a time in our lives when we need someone to listen. Some of you might be in one of
those times right now. Well, there is good news for you. Because of the dedication of this congregation to
provide ministries that take care of our members and the community, we have a Stephen Ministry Program.
Who are Stephen Ministers? We are not ministers. WE are lay people who have received over 50 hours of
training in being a caregiver, a listener, a person who can help you process how to work through whatever
your scenario may be. The Stephen Ministers are: Joyce Kemp, Abigail Staley Elton, Irwin Roberts, Lois
Milligan and myself. The Stephen leaders are Jim Berkshire and JoAnne Riddell.
So what do you do if you are hurting right now? Or if you have a neighbor who you feel would benefit
from a Stephen Minister?
First- Contact JoAnne or Jim. They will talk to you and discern if the situation calls for a Stephen Minister
or if maybe a different avenue may be best.
Second-Once JoAnne or Jim has determined you would be a match for the program, they will partner you
with one of us. As you probably realized, we all come with a variety of personalities and gifts, so they try to
determine which of us would best match. Women are matched with women and men with men, so males
can bank on having Irwin.
Your Stephen Minister will call you and set up a time to meet. You will meet for an hour each week until
you both determine you no longer need help. Of course, we are always here if your situation changes and
you need someone again in the future. Your relationship with your caregiver is totally confidential. Even
among us, we have no idea who anyone is meeting with.
Don't sit there and remain lost, lonely, or afraid. Reach out. We are here waiting to listen.
Your Stephen Ministry Team
JoAnne Riddell, Stephen Leader
13
Brad Arrowood – Brad is from Dayton, now living in Kettering. His wife is Michelle and he has two
sons, three daughters, and one stepson ranging in ages from 34 to 14 years old. He also has seven
granddaughters. Brad’s hobbies include auto repair/restoration, motorcycle riding and hiking in the woods.
Julian Morgan – Julian comes to Sugar Creek by letter of transfer from First Presbyterian Church of
Urbana. He lives in Kettering with his wife Evelyn. Julian is retired. His daughter is Michelle Morgan.
Michelle Morgan – Michelle lives in Oakwood and she has three children, Julius age 12, Colette age 8,
and Vivian age 6. Michelle enjoys working on her old house, baking, reading and music. Her father is Julian
Morgan.
Shirley Mikesell – Shirley grew up in the New Lebanon area. She has four grown children, two sons
and two daughters. She’s blessed with in-laws through her children’s marriages. She has six great grandsons
and is expecting her first great granddaughter in early June. Shirley is a homemaker and her hobbies include
handicrafts.
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Rewards? REWARDS!!!
Are you a Kroger shopper who uses a Kroger Plus Shopper’s Card? If so, did you know that you can get
Kroger to donate money to Sugar Creek Church? Last year, we received over $100 from Kroger through
those who enrolled in the Kroger Community Rewards Program. All you need to do is to log into your
account and click on “Account Summary”. At the bottom of that screen will be a place to enroll in the
rewards program. Our organization number is 83353 or you can just look up Sugar Creek Church. Even if you
have enrolled in the past, please make sure that you are currently enrolled.
Not a Kroger shopper?? Meijer and Dorothy Lane Market have similar programs that we will be joining
soon and we will let you know how to sign up for those as well. Questions about these programs can be
directed to Marge Morgan.
Mustard Seed Campaign
Remember the parable of the mustard seed?
Mathew 13:31, 32 “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and
sowed in his field. Which indeed is the least of all the seeds but when it’s grown it is greater
than the herbs and becomes a tree…”
Session has approved a money collection campaign which is named the “Mustard Seed
Campaign”. Like the mustard seed becomes a tree, we hope that our collection of spare change
will add up to be enough to help our congregation to pay off our debt.
PW Crafties are working on preparing small sacks that will be soon available. Each family is asked to take
a bag home and place in it whatever spare change you find. You collect the coins during the week and empty
the bag in the big container at church as you come to worship each Sunday. If you have a neighbor or a
friend that would like to be involved, you may take a bag for them and you may bring that along with your
collection.
The Financial Resources Commission will be in charge of tallying the coins and depositing them at the
bank.
Thank you for your cooperation.
14
HUMAN RESOURCES
Youth Transition Q & A Conversation
The members of Human Resources, Christian Nurture, and Pastor John would like to extend an invitation
to all parents, current and in-coming youth and any other interested adults to attend a Question & Answer
Conversation regarding the transition of our youth leadership. This will be an opportunity for the church
community to engage in conversation about the exciting opportunity to foster God's love in our youth, and
have an opportunity to listen to a summary of the Survey that was performed by the Youth Ministry
Architects. It will take place on Saturday, May 14 at 2 pm in the Sanctuary. Please see Alissa Shuster or Jenni
Cyprych for any questions.
Farewell Reception for Carmen and her family
Please mark your calendars for Sunday, May 29 following Worship in the
Fellowship Hall, when the Sugar Creek faith community will celebrate with Carmen
and Sean Garrigan their ministry with the youth and their families for the past 5
years! At 11:15, the Congregational Fellowship Commission will host a time to
share with Carmen, Sean, Nathan and Lily as they embark on a new calling from the
Lord to serve with the Missionary Air Group. Please RSVP on the blue sheet in Worship, and please see
Christina Suppo with any questions.
If you would like to share in a farewell appreciation gift for Carmen, please indicate “for Carmen” on your
gift and place it in the offering plate or the church office.
SESSION HIGHLIGHTS
The Elders met in Session:
 April 4, 2016 – met for prayer.

April 20, 2016 – following our Opening Prayer Devotional led by Tori Statt and the lighting of the
Christ Candle, the Elders approved the March Minutes; noted and approved a correction of the
February Minutes; Called the Elders to meet in Session April 24 to receive new members and
examine one of the confirmation class youth; Called the Elders to meet in session April 28 th to
examine the rest of the Confirmation Class; elected Dan Gouge as Treasurer to replace Jeanette
Myers; entered closed meeting to share conversation with The Pastor Nominating Committee,
Human Resources Commission and Christian Nurture; ended closed meeting with prayer led by Dr.
Skelly; began a time of Prayers for the People for those whose names were shared; heard a report of
the Deacons concerning their contacting members who have moved or become inactive; shared
correspondence to the Session; closed the Session with prayer by Clerk Denise Manley.

April 24, 2016 – following prayer led by Dr Skelly, the elders received four new members and
examined one youth for Confirmation May 15th.
15
May 2016 Calendar
May 4
May 9
May 11
May 14
May 18
May 25
10:00 am
7:00 pm
9:30 am
11:30 am
10:00 am
9:30 am
PW Board Meeting (Joyce Kemp 299-9236)
Deborah Circle (Tish Lamb 435-6692)
PW Crafts (Janice Simmons 298-4519)
Dorcas Circle (Marlyn Ladd 434-0571)
Naomi Circle (Denise Manley 433-5619)
PW Crafts (Janice Simmons 298-4519)
KNX
KNX
FH
Murphy’s Grille
KNX
FH
2016 May 7 Friendship Day
Reminder that we are hosting this Prayer Breakfast event for Church Women United in the Fellowship
Hall beginning at 9:30 am on Saturday, May 7. Contact Eleanor Jerman at 434-1432.
Spring Gathering
The Spring Gathering for all women of the congregation will be held on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 in
the Fellowship Hall. Lunch will be provided by the board at noon. If you need a ride, please contact Joyce
Kemp at 299-9236. The program will be a presentation by Marylou Somogyi on her trip to the
Dominican Republic. Listed below are items needed for the school and health kits which we assemble
each year. Items may be placed in the box located in the Cove each Sunday—deadline is May 22.
Health Kit
1 hand towel (no fingertip or bath towels)
1 wash cloth
1 nail file (metal)
1 tube toothpaste (4.7 oz)
6 Band-Aids (std. size)
1 wide-tooth comb
1 bar of soap (bath size in wrapper)
1 toothbrush (in original package)
School Kit
1 pair blunt scissors
2 pads 8-1/2 x 11 ruled paper
1 ruler (30cm)
1 pencil sharpener
1 2-1/2” eraser
6 #2 pencils
12 sheets construction paper
The annual installation of officers will be held as follows:
Moderator—Denise Manley 433-5619
Vice Moderator—Marylou Somogyi 848-7740
Secretary—Kathryn Graham 438-0351
Treasurer—Phyllis Johns 434-5798
Circle Representatives:
Deborah—TBA
Dorcas—Marlyn Ladd 434-0571
Naomi—Joyce Kemp 299-9236
Mission—Ivette Betancourt 848-4536
Fellowship—Barb Rolfe 438-9637
Crafts—Janice Simmons 298-4519
CWU—Eleanor Jerman 434-1342
PW Dinner Coordinators: Barb Rolfe 438-9637 & Janice Simmons 298-4519
16
Can you guess where I am ??
By Brenda Saunders
Answers from the photos in the April Scribe:
1. This is the ‘turnbuckle’. Inside the center of the turnbuckle is a hooked rod which is
attached to the roof of the church, as well as the rods which run across the upper part of the
sanctuary. These turnbuckles were placed and tightened so that the roof wouldn’t sag. There
are 2 turnbuckles in the sanctuary!
2. This is the media board in the back of the church. The sound we hear from the various
microphones is controlled using the slides on this panel.
3. This is the quatrefoil carving design at the ends of the pews. Can you find this same
design in other areas of the church?
4. This is the roll top to the pipe organ. It is in the closed position in this picture.
5. If you look up when you’re in the sanctuary, you’ll see these hanging lanterns. Do you
see the fish symbol? The Greek word for ‘fish’ is the word ‘ichthys’, but the letters are also
the initials of five Greek words that mean ‘Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior’ (Iesous Christos
Theou Yios Soter).
6. These are the pipes for our pipe organ! Do you know how many pipes are on the wall
behind the choir?
7. This is one of the many stained glass designs in the sanctuary. For Christians, bees symbolize
diligence, good order, purity, economy, sweetness, religious eloquence, and an ordered, pious
community. Flying in the air, a bee is a soul entering the Kingdom of Heaven. The bee also
symbolizes the Christian with the hive as the church.
8. The Anchor stained glass stands for hope and steadfastness. In Hebrews 6:19 we read, “We
have this hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters the inner shrine behind
the curtain, where Jesus, a forerunner on our behalf, has entered, having become a high priest
forever.”
9. These quatrefoil carvings are on the chair back of the pastor’s chair. The quatrefoil has
deep roots in the Renaissance and Gothic era and the shape was used as inspiration in much
of history’s architecture. The Celtic and Christian religions believed it to be an extension of
the cross. It has come to mean ‘Good Luck’ to many.
17
Can you guess where I am ??
By Brenda Saunders
1.
3.
2.
4.
6.
5.
7.
10.
9.
(Look closely, you’ll see one of our members in few photos! Can you guess who this is?)
18
8.
“In Memory of Jean McDonald Lamb”
Jean McDonald Lamb 91, died peacefully at her Centerville home March 1, 2016, survived by her loving
husband of 67 years, Bob, along with all five of her children, six of her seven grandchildren and three great
grandchildren. Mrs. Lamb, who often said she was happiest when surrounded by family, would drop anything
and go anywhere to help them all. Long after dementia stole most of her memory, she still rattled off the
names of her children. When she oil painted portraits of her first two children, she signed them HLM for “His
Loving Mother.”
A lifelong poet and artist, Mrs. Lamb wrote and illustrated dozens of poems, usually to encourage her
children or celebrate their special occasions. Her family will soon publish a collection of those works, titled
“A Kiss on the Magic Spot.”
She blended family with artistry into a small business she started in her late 50’s, inspired by the plush
stuffed lamb she made when her youngest child became homesick at college. The lamb had a pocket to hold
her encouragement, cheer or inspiration. It became the model for Mrs. Lamb’s “Precious Pockets” line of
lambs, enabling others to fill the “empty pockets” of down hearted or unappreciated loved ones.
She later illustrated and wrote verses for greeting cards, bookmarks and magnets.
Mrs. Lamb was born February 27, 1925 in Ames, Iowa, the second of Murl and Mabel McDonald’s two
children. She met Bob at Iowa State College (Now University) in Ames, from which both graduated. They
married September 1, 1948. Bob’s job a 3M took them to St. Paul, Minnesota, and Seabrook, Md., before they
settled in Kettering for 41 years and Centerville for 13 years. Mrs. Lamb, a 70 year PEO member was
President of two chapters and founder of a third. She was active at Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church, chairing
children’s education for several years.
Besides husband Bob, she is survived by children Kevin (Carol), Larry (Carole), Chris (Lesly), Jenni
Allard (Dale), and Becky Lamb, by grandchildren Courtney, Tony, Andy, Ali, David Lamb, and Katlin Allard,
and by great grandchildren Payton, Griffin and Zooey. She is predeceased by grandson, Ryan Lamb, father of
her great grandkids and husband of Robin, as well as her parents, sister Muriel, and infant brother, John.
Visitation will begin at 9:30 A.M., Monday followed by 11 A.M. services at Sugar Creek Presbyterian
Church in Kettering, where condolences can be sent to 4417 Bigger Road, Dayton, Ohio. Donations may be
made to either the Alzheimer Association, Miami Valley Chapter, 31 W. Whipp Road, Dayton Ohio 45459 or
Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Avenue, Dayton OH 45409.
Editors note** The History Commission of Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church is grateful for Jean Lamb’s
diligent care of our story. Jean spent many years saving and preserving papers, photos and artifacts which may
have been lost if not for her efforts. We thank God that she served as one of the “cloud of witnesses’ to tell the
story of His people as lived here at Sugar Creek.
Jane Jolly
19
Mother’s Day
30
29
31
1pm KK-KNX
8:30am Man in the Mirror-CAL
9:30am PW Crafts-FH
12pm Staff Ministries Lunch &
Mtg
25
8:30am Man in the Mirror-CAL
10am Naomi Circle-KNX
7pm CF-FH
7pm Session-KNX
18
Mirror-CAL
9:30m PW Crafts-FH
11 8:30am Man in the
8:30am Man in the
Mirror-CAL
10am PW Board Mtg-KNX
6pm Stephen Min. Sup. MtgCAL
7pm Commissions & Deacons
4
Wed
26
7pm AA Mtg.-KNX
27
7pm AA Mtg.-KNX
20
7pm AA Mtg.-KNX
19
13
4:15p t.y.p. Picnic
5pm Confirmation ClassKNX
7:30pm Chancel Choir
Rehearsal-CR
7pm AA Mtg.-KNX
6
Fri
12
4:15p t.y.p.-FH
5pm Confirmation ClassKNX
5
Thu
7
10am VBS Set Day-FH
28
10am VBS Set Day-FH
11am Cookie BakeKitchen
21
11:30am Dorcas CircleMurphy’s Grille
2pm Q&A Conversation-S
10am VBS Set Day-FH
14
9:30am Serving House of
Bread
9:30am CWU May
Friendship Day-FH
Sat
Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church
LEGEND: GROUPS: CF = Compassionate Friends; PNC = Pastor Nominating Committee; PW = Presbyterian Women, t.y.p. = Thursday Youth Program, EPPIC = Youth Fellowship, MVC = Miami Valley Chorale
ROOMS: CAL=Calvin Room, CO=Commons-new entryway, CR=Choir Room, CV= Cove, FH=Fellowship Hall, KNX=Knox Room, S=Sanctuary, YR=Youth Room.
MEMORIAL
DAY
OFFICE CLOSED
1pm KK-KNX
5:45pm PNC-CAL
6pm MVC-FH
10am Worship/KCC
11:15am Cookie WalkCommons
1:30pm Film Workshop-Ed
McNulty-S
4pm VBS Band Practice/Youth
Worship leaders-FH
5pm EPPIC Cookout
10am Worship/KCC
11:15am Farewell Reception for
Garrigans-FH
24
23
22
1pm KK-KNX
10am Staff Ministries
Mtg-CAL
5:45pm PNC-CAL
6pm MVC-FH
17
16
11:30am Lunch
Bunch-First Watch
1pm KK-KNX
4:30pm Presby. MtgFairmont
5pm VBS Planning Mtg-CAL
7pm History Mtg-CAL
10
2pm CWU practice-FH
1pm KK-KNX
3
Tue
10am
Worship/GYD/Confirmation/
Communion/Salt & Light Choir
11:15am Graduate Brunch-FH
4pm New Officers Training-CAL
4pm VBS Band Practice/Youth
Worship Leaders-FH
6pm EPPIC SNAC
6pm MVC-FH
7pm Deborah CircleKNX
9
6pm MVC-FH
2
Mon
15 Day of Pentecost
10am Worship/GYD/Angels
8
10am Worship/GYD/Kirkmont
Offering
11:15am VBS All-Volunteer
Training-FH
6pm EPPIC SNAC
1
Sun
May 2016
Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church, USA
4417 Bigger Road, Kettering, OH 45440-1698
937. 298. 3743
www.sugarcreekchurch.org
Session
Deacons
Class of 2016
Class of 2017
Class of 2018
Debbie Ellington
Jenni Cyprych
Donna Courtney
Mark Hughes
Jim Berkshire
Tom Milligan
Denise Manley
George Lamb
Leah O’Malley
JoAnne Riddell
Marge Morgan
Tony Peters
Tori Statt
Jackie Myers
Christina Suppo
Debbie Ellington, chair
Stanley Aultz
Abigail Staley Elton
Kathryn Graham
Irwin Roberts
Abby Schultz
Janice Simmons
Marylou Somogyi
Rev. Dr. John J. Skelly, Moderator
Denise Manley, Clerk
Janice Studebaker
Rev. Dr. John J. Skelly
INTERIM PASTOR
Wendy D. Berkshire
Nolan Long
DIRECTOR OF FAMILY MINISTRIES
The Rev. Carmen Garrigan
DIRECTOR OF YOUTH MINISTRIES
Shana Kim
CHANCEL CHOIR DIRECTOR
Jessie Fleeman
ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY
Carole Misenko
CUSTODIAN
ORGANIST
Sugar Creek Presbyterian Church (USA)
4417 Bigger Road,
Kettering, Ohio 45440-1698