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The Shepherd’s Crook The Church of the Good Shepherd

Pitman, NJ The Rev. Susan E. Osborne-Mott, Rector October 2019

“We Love Our Church”

“Blessed Inconveniences”

For the tri-fold insert for our September 29 worship program, I quoted the Very Reverend

Kurt Dunkle, Dean of General Seminary in NYC. He said, “Those aspiring to loving

relationships, be it with family or God, must be prepared for lavishly inefficient

uses of large amounts of time.” YES!

We need to be reminded of this regularly, but especially as we prepare to enter this holidaze

time of the year, as we prepare to climb onto the careening toboggan ride of Hallowe’en,

Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Over the river and through the woods indeed -

at breakneck speed.

I was shopping in Target with Brad on a recent Monday afternoon. We were in the far

corner of the store, the area where the merchandise changes with the seasons. There was also a

young hapless daddy there, shopping with his 4-5 year old daughter. He was a healthy young

man, but nevertheless so vulnerable, so unprepared, so exhausted. She was a teeny, tiny

commando in a ballet skirt with, yes, a crown!

She zoomed around, past the decorations, through the costumes, through the candy,

chatting away, touching everything, delighted with the glitter and the scary stuff too. She was

so delighted that she had to see it all twice! And he, poor soul, followed her faithfully. Finally

stopping for a breath, he cried out to the Universe, “Haven’t we seen everything? Won’t we

ever be done?”

Brad and I had to hide. We were dying with laughter. I longed to have instant access to the

PA system, to be able to be the disembodied God-voice, calling out,

“Noooooooooo… You will NEVER be done! Welcome to Parental Purgatory, the

never-ending, ever-exhausting joy of children! Be prepared for “lavishly

inefficient uses of large amounts of time!”

And be prepared to thank God for every moment.

Blessings,

Mother Susan+

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Deacon Carl’s Corner

Squeezing God Out of Our Lives

I was in the Charlotte airport recently and saw a large sign that said something like, “While in Charlotte, Nearly Everyone visits the Billy Graham Library”. As I was walking by the sign, I was wondering if that were true. A young couple walked by who were looking at the sign, laughed and said, “That can’t be true, why would anyone do that?” I wondered about their reaction.

Billy Graham was not from their generation, even though he just passed away a little more than a year ago. Dr. Graham was not someone, guessing the age of the couple, they ever went to hear preach the “good news” of life with God after we leave this earth. But the words spoken by that young man stuck with me. Those words became an example of what I think too many people are feeling about God. Folks of all ages seem to be ”squeezing God” into a smaller and smaller corner of their everyday lives. As followers of Christ, we, above all people, should know that God is not in the business of being squeezed out.

Jesus quotes Deuteronomy in Mark 12:29-30: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord alone is God. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

Seems to me, if those words, written thousands of years ago and then repeated by Jesus 2000 years ago, are just as true today. But I fear that, too often, we want to give God the stuff in our lives that does not require sacrifice, or the religious stuff and keep the rest for ourselves, or the stuff that does not take much faith, or the stuff when the giving is easy, or the bad stuff in our lives that may be taking away from us living comfortably. All of this is “squeezing God out of our lives” and it does not work for God, or us.

God requires that we give back to him what is already His. In Psalm 95:6 it says, “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”

You and I come here to the Church of the Good Shepherd to worship “the Lord, our Maker”, who has blessed us beyond measure. When we rise from our knees each weekend, let us leave the church building, but continue our worship by giving God, ourselves, our Love and our praise every day.

Deacon Carl

THE FOOD PANTRY

We have changed our approach for collecting food donations for the Pitman Food Pantry. Each week we will be collecting a different food item. We will announce the upcoming needed food item each week in the trifold. Also we will have a monthly list in the Crook.

Food donations for October are: 10/5 & 6 – Canned Fruit 10/12 & 13 – Spaghetti Sauce 10/19 & 20 – Canned Ravioli 10/26 & 27 – Cereal

All donations are greatly appreciated and accepted.

The Pitman Food Pantry is open on even dated Tuesdays each month from 6pm – 7pm.

Altar Flowers and Sanctuary Candle

If you are interested in requesting Altar Flowers or the

Sanctuary Candle in memory of someone or in

thanksgiving, the forms are in the Parish Hall, on the back

wall, on the Bulletin Board near the kitchen. Please fill out

the appropriate form with your information for your

desired date, as long as it is available, on the appropriate

chart on the bulletin board. Please put completed form in

Parish Administrator’s mailbox or under office door.

We do not have flowers during Advent or Lent. The

Sanctuary Candle is available year round.

PICTURES!

Let’s get in the habit of taking pictures of everything around here! Pictures of Sunday School, meetings, even of events at services if you can be surreptitious! Please identify who is in each photo and what the event is. Thank you!

Maryanne has received some great pics from people keep ‘em coming!

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT PUTTING OUR BELOVED PARISH, GOOD

SHEPHERD, IN YOUR WILL?

Please Be Considerate of Our Neighbors!

We are so glad you're here! But when you park near the church, please be considerate of our neighbors and make sure you have fully cleared their driveways. Thank you!

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CHURCH MINISTRY LEADERS These are some of their names and numbers, if you have

any questions.

Rector - The Rev. Susan Osborne-Mott – 732-759-4358 Deacon - The Rev. Carl Dunn – 609-868-7102 Senior Warden – Len Clark – 856/582-1113 Junior Warden – Beth Portocalis – 856/357-3938 Treasurer - Lee Braidwood - 856/228-0737 Asst. Treasurer - George Funk - 856/232-0941

Brotherhood of St. Andrew - Wayne Szalma – 856/469-3028 Women at the Well - Diane Wall - 856/374-9081 Altar Guild - Shelly Harris - 856/589-8160 Youth Group - Chelsea Richmond – 856-723-4123

2019 VESTRY LIAISONS Endowment Planning – Frank Jackson Personnel – Amanda McNally Youth Group & Activities – Lauren Kaltwasser Sunday School – Beth Portocalis Outreach Ministries – Gail Morton Newcomers/Greeters – Internal Ministries – Steve Mackay Columbarium – Diane Wall Choir – Jim Wynkoop Women at the Well - Diane Wall Brotherhood of St. Andrew – Jim Wynkoop Adult Christian Education – Aimee Burgin Website & Social Media – Jim Wynkoop Green Team – Lauren Kaltwasser Stewardship Committee – Len Clark – Chair, Gail Morton (2019), Steve Mackay (2020), Diane Wall (2021)

Senior Warden – Len Clark Junior Warden – Beth Portocalis Treasurer – Lee Braidwood Clerk of the Vestry – Chuck Lezenby Assistant Clerk of the Vestry – Mel Caron

Fall Clean-Up Saturday, November 16th (Rain date Nov. 23rd)

9:00 am - 12:00 noon

Please mark your schedules now and plan to come out and help clean-up the Church & Rectory in advance of the Holly Fair & Christmas season. We need help with removing brush, pruning trees, raking leaves and spreading mulch. No special skills needed; just a willingness to dedicate a couple of hours to YOUR Church!!!!! Rakes, shovels and all tools will be provided, just bring hand gloves.

With a crew of a couple of dozen or so parishioners and family members, we can complete all this is a couple of hours.

If interested, please sign up in the parish hall or contact Beth Portocalis at bport0627@verizon.net or by phone or text to 856-357-3938.

OUTREACH

Thank you for the great donations of clothing that we are receiving each month for the people of Camden. They are put to good use immediately! Men’s shoes and clothing are in dire need all of the time. These clothes are distributed at St. Wilfrid’s monthly clinic in Camden to those who need them most! If you have something that you wish to donate, please place the items in manageable size bags only, on our front porch and we will see that they get there for you! We are located at 223 Highland Terrace. PLEASE do NOT donate clothing that is not appropriate for the current season, warm weather clothing for warm weather, winter for winter, etc. We do not have enough storage space to hold them and neither does St. Wilfrid’s. Thanks again!

Deacon Carl and Ellie Dunn

Contemplative Prayer Time

Before Our Worship Services

For those who seek a time for quiet prayer on Saturdays and Sundays, Mother Susan opens the church on Saturdays at 4:30 PM for the 5:30 PM service. We ask that 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM be a quiet prayerful time. Likewise, for Sundays, she will be in the Church at 9 AM for a quiet time from 9 AM to 9:30 AM. We ask that all who come early to church honor these times as times for quiet prayer and contemplation.

PAGE TURNERS’ BOOK GROUP (Third Sunday each month, 11:30-1 pm)

10/20 INHERITANCE by Dani Shapiro

11/17 CLOVER BLUE by Eldonna Edwards

01/19 THE HIDEAWAY by Lauren K. Denton

02/16 HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG by Andre Dubus

03/15 THE LAKE OF DREAMS by Kim Edwards

04/19 THE RIVER by Peter Heller

05/24 IN A DARK DARK WOOD by Ruth Ware

06/21 UNSHELTERED by Barbara Kingsolver

09/20 WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING by Delia Owens

No meeting December, July and August

The Page Turners meet once a month, immediately following the 10am Holy Eucharist, in the Conference Room.

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Prayers for Parish Families For October

Masciangelo family, Maurer family, Mazzei family, and McCallum family

OUR PRAY-ERS MINISTRY

Each Sunday during Communion time, our team of Pray-ers offer prayers with our parishioners. We have now expanded this meaningful ministry to our Saturday evening Holy Eucharist at 5:30pm. After you receive Holy Communion, if you want/need additional prayers, there will be a team of Pray-ers in the front of the Church who are willing to pray with you. These prayers can be offered in joy for a Blessing you have received, or can be to help ease a burden which lies on your heart. Please take advantage of this wonderful ministry of our parish. All prayers are confidential. Anyone interested in being a Pray-er Minister at the Saturday night or Sunday services please contact Barbara Elliott @ 589-3980 or elliottb@rowan.edu

MORNING PRAYER

Morning Prayer is on Tuesday & Thursday mornings at 9

AM with Mother Susan in the chapel.

HEALING PRAYER

Mother Susan is now offering Healing Prayer with anointing and laying on of hands on the first Saturday of every month following the Saturday evening service.

Don’t forget to drop your spare change

in the SQUIRRELS’ NESTS! They are in the back of the Church

and in the Parish Hall

CHURCH HISTORY DISPLAY

Thank you for all of the items that you have shared with our fellow parishioners over the past 5 years to be displayed in the glass case in the parish hall. As of now, the current exhibit will be the last one! I have no further items to display! It has been fun getting to know our collective past with all of you! Thanks so much!

Ellie Dunn

Shawl/Caring Hands Ministry

Every so often we get a request for a Prayer Shawl to be given to someone in need. Sometimes it is during an illness, sometimes during grieving periods after the loss of a loved one. The Shawls are crocheted or knitted by the women in this ministry. Every other Tuesday morning you will find our Caring Hands Group knitting/crocheting the shawls in our Conference room. They are made with prayer for those who will receive them. I can’t begin to tell you of the peace and comfort these shawls have brought to so many people. They need not be members of our parish. Need is spread everywhere. If you know of a need, just ask Pat Braidwood

FAMILY QUIZ BOWL

It’s back! The Good Shepherd Family Quiz Bowl is scheduled for October 11th at 6:30 PM. It is not too late to sign up a team. You do not have to have a team to play. We will put you on a team! Tickets will be

sold in the Parish Hall after church or payment can be made at the door. Create a team or join a team and sign up in the Parish Hall. Teams will provide their own refreshments. If you have any questions, reach out to Diane Wall in person or by email at markdiwall@comcast.net.

SERVICES

Saturdays: 4:30 PM – Contemplative Prayer 5:30 PM – Holy Eucharist

Sundays: 9:00 AM – Contemplative Prayer 10:00 AM – Holy Eucharist

Tuesdays & Thursdays: 9 AM Morning Prayer

DEADLINE

The deadline for the November 2019 Crook will be on October 15, 2019. Please e-mail all articles and pictures to goodshepherdpitman@gmail.com.

Maryanne Charlton Parish Administrator

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Pitman – Glassboro CROP Hunger Walk (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty)

It’s that time of year again. The air is crisp, the leaves are falling and CROP Walk is upon us, Sunday, October 20th from 1:00 to 5:00 at a NEW LOCATION: New Street Park, 410 East New Street, Glassboro, NJ 08028 Hopefully you will mark your calendar and join us for a walk in the park in an effort to curb hunger. If you are unable to walk and would like to contribute to someone who is walking or to the Good Shepherd team that would be greatly appreciated too. To donate please log into www.crophungerwalk.org/pitmannj/GailMorton or see Gail Morton in the Parish Hall after church on Sundays or place your donation in the collection plate with Crop Walk written in the memo section of your check, it’s that easy. Let’s set a goal of $3,000.00 this year and 30 walkers. If you have any questions please see Gail Morton or Connie Parent. Thank you in advance for your participation!

Gail Morton

THURSDAY STUDY GROUP (Thursday mornings, 9:30-11 a.m.)

We continue this fall with a study called ProFuture Faith: The Prodigal Species Comes Home by Rev. Michael Dowd. Rev. Dowd is an “Eco-Theologian”, author and TED speaker. This program is intended to bridge the gap between head and heart, science and faith. Thus far we have covered “Untrivalizing God”, “The Purpose of Religion and the Necessity of Science”, “The Epic of Evolution – A Cosmic Timeline” and “Thus Sayeth Reality – What is Inevitable – What is Needed”. In October we will cover “Thus Sayeth Reality – What is Futile – What is Urgent”, “Why we Struggle – Untrivalizing Mythic Wisdom”, Impermanence and Death as Sacred – Embracing Limits”, and “Staying Sane, Sober and Inspired in Contracting Times.” These have been extremely sobering presentations and the conversations have been intense. We are happy that members of our extended community have joined members of Good Shepherd in these discussions!

CONTEMPLATIVE GROUP (First and Third Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m.)

At the request of the group, we now meet twice a month. This group gathers to meditate/contemplate for 20 minutes in community. We then have a period of study and discussion. Currently we are using Fr. Richard Rohr’s presentation called The Naked Now which is based on his bestselling book of the same name. If you have never participated in a meditation/centering prayer/contemplative group before, simple instruction is given at the start of the session. It’s amazing how relaxing this time is – feel free to give it a try!l

The Spirituality of the Twelve Steps - #10 “Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.”

“Wisely, Step 10 does not emphasize a moral inventory which becomes too self-absorbed and self-critical, but it speaks of a ‘personal inventory’. In other words just watch yourself objectively, calmly, and compassionately. You will be able to do this from your new viewing platform and perspective as a grounded child of God.” Richard Rohr, “Breathing Under Water”, p. 90 It is a spiritual axiom that every time we are disturbed, no matter what the cause, there is something wrong with us. If somebody hurts us and we are sore, we are in the wrong also. But are there no exceptions to this rule? Twelve Steps and Traditions, p 90. The problem is that as soon as we create the thought that we are ‘justified’ in our anger, we lose sight of our own role in the situation. We lose sight of our own woundedness and we focus on ourselves. The spiritual steps teach us that we should focus on ourselves only to be attuned to our growth in order that we can become the person God intends for us to be – not in order to justify our unhealthy behaviors. Our objectives are the development of self-restraint – not reacting with unkind words, tirades, snap judgements or tongue lashings. Neither should we sulk or scorn others silently. Keeping in mind our Baptism promise is respecting the dignity of every human being is a good touch stone. We should ask ourselves if we at any time during our day didn’t respect the dignity of another person. Were we rude, did we give someone the ‘silent’ treatment, did we expect others to agree with us and if they didn’t, did we get angry and spiteful? Rather, we should train ourselves to sidestep these traps. Taking inventory throughout the day when we find our behavior at odds with our emotions is a good practice. Taking inventory at the end of the day after giving thanks for the gift of another day is also a good practice. We don’t only recognize where we need to make amends to others, but we also recognize where we handled life well. By keeping these two areas in balance, it will help to keep us humble and honest. This practice is holy and important in our spiritual lives.

ADULT FORUM

(First Sundays each month, 11:30-1 p.m.)

In October we will continue using a program featuring Marcus Borg, renowned New Testament Scholar. Embracing An Adult Faith - The second session focuses on our understanding of Jesus. In this program Borg meets with a group of parishioners in a discussion on various topics. You can attend one or all of the upcoming months of this program.

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Raymond Harris, III

Steven Sanders

Matt Spangler

Lynn Spangler

Scott Thomas

Glen

Tim

Dan Hurlbut

Zak Bartelt

Brian Randazzo

Buzz Parish

Charlie Hiemeril

John A. Lukacs

Joe Sheridan

Hal Wagner

Matt Rebecca

Jon S. Lehr

Keith Tucker

Dave McElwain

Hugh Robinson

Andrew Olsson

Joshua Albright

Zachary Guise

Gattinella family Howard Caitlin John Joseph Whaley Anne Lewis Edna Spratt Katherine Lesher Steelman family Sophia Capano Joseph Capano Evelyn Recinello Family of Jessica Carter Chris Burness Janet Murphy Andrew Knox Bill Dilworth Sherry Yvonne Dolores Concio Hilda & Carey Myra The Santores Kevin Meyers Tannine Jacquie Kelly Nancy Joe Drebes Smith family Ellis family Naomi Cressman Lori Bathurst Haley & Ross Cheryl Cammarota Jeff Snodgrass

Scott McPherson

Matthew Cushinotto

Theresa Cushinotto

Mike Grzybowski

Ted

Mike McHugh

Bonnie Weis

Kane Lawlor

Drew Naphy

Rhen Brinkerhoff

Brian Opel

Jonathan Dickson

Matt

Michael Marta

Marcos

Bryan Jensen

Andrew

Kyle

Ryan Bubnoski

Chris

Carson

Robert J. Kunze

Deborah Keser Frank Ziemetz John King Art Dilworth Betty Beard

Triste

Church of the Good Shepherd Prayers of the People

Prayers for the Church and Clergy For all Churches in the Diocese of NJ & Ecuador Michael Curry, the Presiding Bishop William “Chip” Stokes, Our Bishop The Rev. Susan E. Osborne-Mott, Rector Sister Cass, AF Charles Nakash – Missionary in the Dominican Republic Rev. Carl Dunn, our Deacon

Prayers for the Nation Donald Trump, Our President Phil Murphy, Our Governor

“For all those who serve and protect us at home”

Prayers for the Sick and in Need Tod Porter Tara McFadden family Seely family Audrey Buck Joe DeMarco James Anna Candyce Rich Reiniello Mike Daly Maripat Makalusky Helen & Ken Michelle Siegle Natasha Tuoy Melissa Czechowicz Paul Kathy Busser Janet Paraschak Rosalie Jenkins Debbie Crystal Snoke Peggy Francis Dorothy Marylou Mitchell Morgan Janice Enstrom Robert Linda Rebecca Sharon Reneé April Ellerbe John & Candace Jemilo Harvey Corbett

Denise Ladd

Prayers for all Military Personnel

* We pray for our enemies and for those with whom we are at war. *

“Almighty God, we commend to your gracious care and keeping all the men and women of our armed forces at home and abroad. Defend them with your heavenly grace; strengthen them in their trials and temptations; give them courage to face the perils which beset them; and grant them a sense of your abiding presence wherever they may be; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”

PASTORAL EMERGENCIES If a Pastoral Emergency should come up for you,

hospitalization, death in the family, please call the

Church Office 856-589-8209 or after office hours

please call Mother Susan at 732-759-4358.

Bob Dorothy Stephie Mary Lanie Ken Southwick

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN OCTOBER All Tuesdays & Thursdays - 9 AM Morning Prayer All Thursdays – 9:30 AM Thursday Study Group 6PM Bell Choir in the Conference Room 7:15 PM Choir Practice October 2 – 10 AM Contemplative Group 7 PM Brotherhood of St. Andrew October 5 & 6 – PENTECOST 17 Saturday, 4:30 PM Open Prayer

5:30 PM Holy Eucharist with Healing Prayer Sunday, 9 AM Open Prayer

10 AM Holy Eucharist 10 AM Sunday School 11:30 AM Children’s Choir 11:30 AM Adult Forum 4 PM Blessing of the Pets October 8 – 9:30 AM Caring Hands October 9 - 7 PM Property Committee Mtg. October 11 – 6:30 PM Family Quiz Bowl October 12 & 13 – PENTECOST 18 Saturday, 4:30 PM Open Prayer 5:30 PM Holy Eucharist Sunday, 9 AM Open Prayer 9 AM Parish Breakfast 10 AM Holy Eucharist 10 AM Sunday School 11:30 AM Children’s Choir 11:30 AM Vestry Meeting October 14 – 7 PM Women at the Well - ECW October 16 – 10 AM Contemplative Prayer 6:30 – 8 PM Good Shepherd Quilters October 19 & 20 – PENTECOST 19 Saturday, 4:30 PM Open Prayer 5:30 PM Holy Eucharist Sunday, 9 AM Open Prayer 10 AM Holy Eucharist 10 AM Sunday School 11:30 AM Children’s Choir 11:30 AM Page Turners 11:30 AM Youth Group 12 PM CROP Walk October 22 – 9:30 AM Caring Hands October 26 & 27 – PENTECOST 20 Saturday, 11AM Camden Christmas Fall Party 4:30 PM Open Prayer 5:30 PM Taizé Service Sunday, 9 AM Open Prayer 10 AM Holy Eucharist 10 AM Sunday School 11:30 AM Children’s Choir

October 31 – Halloween 3:30 PM Halloween Table in the Courtyard

OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS

01 – Maria Black 02 – Eric Long 04 – Jim Taylor 05 – Rachel Cefaratti 05 – Victoria Scull 06 – Kirsten Nelson 07 – Robert Peel III 08 - Mason Sharp 09 – Melissa Buono 11 – Joshua Buono 11 – Cindy Taglienti 14 – Kaitlyn Braidwood 16 – Roland LaBarge 16 – Kelly Lynd

ST. FRANCIS DAY October 6th

We are planning to have our annual Blessing of the Pets St. Francis Day Service on Sunday, October 6th at 4pm in the Church Courtyard (weather permitting). If it is raining, we’re in the Parish Hall. Each year we thank our Lord for the gift of our pets. We sing to them, we pray for them, we ask God to protect and keep them safe. Don’t miss it!

HOLLY FAIR

Holly Fair is fast approaching . . . mark your

calendars for Saturday, December 7th! This is a

wonderful annual celebration of fellowship,

fantastic homemade food, crafters, kids’ activities,

bargains and so much more! It is a great event to

bring the whole family and enjoy the day.

Volunteer signup sheets are in the Parish Hall and

we need your help! We are starting to collect

items for the “Dollar Store”, "More Than a Dollar

Store" and the "Christmas Store", so if you have

any gently used items that fall into these

categories... please consider donating them! You

can drop them off downstairs in the All Purpose

Room starting October 21st (NO SOONER).

If you have any questions, please call Jenniffer

and Rich Harrington at 856-383-0823.

16 – David Schwartzer 17 – Deacon Carl Dunn 22 – Andrew Buck 22 – Karen Mackay 24 – Emily Long 25 – Millie Corbett 25 – Deacon Jim Gowland 26 – Gabrielle Buck 26 – Marissa Buck 28 – Kevin Ridge 28 – LuAnn Ziegler 29 – Robert Ayres 29 – Sophia Southwick

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Thank You God for Services we take for granted

By Alice Aultman

Stop and think of all of those service providers who that are part of our daily living. We look for our mail, we empty our trash with no thought about the people providing these services for us. Someone has sorted the mail, put it in the delivery vehicle that leaves it in the right box for us to pick up and enjoy. A newspaper is delivered so we can keep track of the happenings in the world and places near home and when the right day arrives the things we are though with are picked up and taken someplace where we will never see or think about them again. We shop for groceries, picking out the fruits that look best. Yes, someone picked the fruit or at least directed a mechanical device to the items packed in boxes, loaded on trucks and taken to points to be sold. When this arrives at the market someone unpacks, sorting out any that would not be good for the buyer to take home and present to the family. Let’s stay in the grocery store for some other thoughts. The products are unpacked and placed on shelves where the like items are located. The consumer can choose what is needed, proceed to checkout, get the items packed after paying for them and be on their way home. All of these services are provided by people. Yes! Stop and think of all of the persons God has provided to make our lives pleasant and helpful. How often do we think of these services and spend time thanking God for all he has done for us? Stop and offer prayer of thanks to God for making our lives pleasant with the help of many and remember to say Thank You to those who work for our pleasure.

TAIZÉ CONTEMPLATIVE SERVICE

Taizé Contemplative Service with Eucharist, Saturday, October 26 at 5:30 p.m. Join us for this time of quiet contemplation, chant and scripture readings, followed by the Holy Eucharist.

Halloween Treating in the Courtyard

Do you live somewhere where no one comes to your door to “Trick or Treat”? Would you like to see fun costumes and have fun with your GS friends? Come to the GS Courtyard on October 31, Halloween, with your treats! We will be offering “Treating in the Courtyard” (or in the Parish Hall if it rains) complete with treats and apples and hot cider and Mother Susan in costume. You don’t want to miss that! Bring your treats! Bring your kids! Bring your grandkids! Anytime between 4 and 8 PM.

Treasurer's Blog - October 2019 Results for 8 months of 2019

Total Income:

Here is a breakdown of our income for 8 months of 2019:

Budget Actual

Loose Plate 1,250 1,367 Envelopes 147,777 142,709

Special 4,300 4,701

Other 125 275

Income 153,452 149,052

Our envelope income is running steady with our estimate. It appears that many parishioners have been adding to their pledges and other contributors are giving at a greater amount. We had anticipated having a deficit of over $13,000 and it is only $6,160 for the eight months.

Thank you for your support during the summer months. We hope you will be able to provide continued support for 2019 and as we enter our stewardship campaign for 2020.

Total expenses: Here is a recap of our expenses for 8 months of 2019.

Budget Actual

Expenses 160,219 148,043

Our expenses were in line with our estimates for this year with the exception of gas heating that was lower and pension payments which are being adjusted by the Church Pension Group.

Rental Forms & Special Events Checklist The Vestry has adopted an updated Rental Form for Not for Profit outside groups who would like to rent the Parish Hall and/or classrooms. This includes birthday & anniversary parties, showers, community & civic meetings, instructional programs, etc. The new forms are available in the Parish Hall and will also be on the Church website as a Fill-in PDF form. All forms are to be submitted to the attention of our Claude Coulson, Event Coordinator. Also new is a Special Events Checklist Form to be utilized by Church ministry leaders when scheduling special event activities and functions such as paint nights, Quiz Bowl night, Progressive Dinners, and the like. The checklist is intended as a guide in planning events to insure all details required have been addressed, from Church availability to publicity. Claude Coulson has volunteered to act as the liaison to those in charge of organizing the event. The Special Event Checklist forms are also in the Parish Hall and on the Church website; and may be sent to Claude directly or left with Maryanne in the Church office. Claude may be contacted at cecoulson1@gmail.com or via phone/text at 410-218-2877 for more information.

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STAINED GLASS WINDOW UPDATE To date, approximately $4,500 has been raised towards our goal of $13,000 to make repairs to the alter box and the three stained glass windows in need of immediate attention. However, during the process of obtaining quotes and vetting firms to do this work, it was discovered that the clerestory (upper) windows are leaking and are also in need of immediate replacement. The leaking has caused some cracks in the church; and has driven the project cost to $26,000. The Vestry is undertaking serious conversations on financing the needed repairs; and the Property Committee has spent countless hours in researching the stained glass firms and reviewing their reports and proposals. A Virginia firm, Epiphany Studios, has been recommended to the Vestry by the Property Committee. They have completed over 1,500 stained glass projects, including the National Cathedral, the Diocese in Trenton, and countless other churches and universities across the Country. We are still accepting pledges towards the stained glass windows. If you have misplaced the envelope mailed to you earlier this year, we do have more in the rear of the Church. You may also mail a pledge to the Church Office with the notation on the check for "Stained Glass Windows." Our stained glass windows represent a value to the Church of upwards of $800,000 in replacement costs. Their aesthetic value is incalculable. During the recent block party and open house, almost every person who toured the Church commented on the beauty and grace of the windows. I will keep you apprised of our progress, and thank you for thoughtfully considering a pledge towards this critical need.

Respectfully Submitted, Beth Portocalis, Junior Warden & Chair of the Property Committee

To All Women of Good Shepherd The Women at the Well, invite you to join us in fellowship and in service to our church and greater community. This is a wonderful way to meet new friends and get to know each other better. If you would like to be more involved in church activities, this is your opportunity. We generally meet on the second Monday of the month. We hope you will consider joining us!

Block Party!

Good Shepherd’s first ever Block Party was a success! It was held on September 7th and we had perfect weather.

Special Request

When parking at Good Shepherd for our Services please take into consideration the parishioners that need to park closer to the Church entrance due to physical limitations. We will have cones indicating the spots to be left open. So please leave room near our handicapped spot for 3

additional cars. Thank you.

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16th Annual Stockings for Soldiers Please Help Send Some Holiday Cheer to Our Troops.

Shelly Harris has put a large collection box in the back of the church. This will run from October 5th until November 17th.

This marks the 16th consecutive year to send personalized greetings to our brave men and women in uniform serving our country half-way around the world in the remotest areas of Afghanistan, Iraq, Israel, Egypt, Qatar Kuwait, Jordan, Kosovo, Djibouti, Chad,

Romania, South Korea and parts unknown. Our project sent over 10,000 stockings filled with goodies last year. We want to continue to let them know we are thinking of them while they are away from home and their families. We need your help to fill them up with Holiday Cheer and Goodies that remind them of home. The Good Shepherd Quilt Guild will again be sewing holiday stockings to donate. Please let Shelly know if you are interested at maharris08080@verizon.net.

> Small Candy

Mini-candy bars (send your favorite)

Christmas/Halloween candy > Granola/Fruit/Breakfast Bars > Cookies/Nuts/Pretzels/Trail Mix

Less than 12 oz. size > Flavored drink mixes (Single Packets)

Lemonade, teas, hot cocoa, coffee > Chewing gum > Toothbrushes > Socks (Black, Brown, White Crew Socks) > Chap Stick & Lip balms > Razors (individual or packs)

>Fruit roll-ups/gushers/Cracker Jacks > Slim Jims/Beef Jerky > Ramen Noodle Soup

Single packs preferred > Hand/Foot Warmers > Small Individually Packages Meals

Tuna/Lasagna/Beefaroni/Fruit.

Smaller package (8 oz. or less) preferred > Tooth paste, foot powder, sun block > Baby Wipes-Unscented > Pocket games & puzzles > Crossword, Sudoku

Please consider the following suggested items to donate from the list below. Suggested Donation Items (Bolded items are most in demand)

Notes: Smaller, individual sized packaging is preferred to fit into individually packed stockings. We accept all sized packages/containers as donations, larger items are sent to units for snacking.

No soap products please, they spoil other items in shipping if mixed in with other donations!!!

Holiday Greeting Cards!!! Send a Personal Holiday Messages of Support & Friendship (Include return address or email, you might hear back from the soldier)

$$$ Financial Donations to Help with the Costs $$$ (Help cover postage and shipping costs - $2.00/donated bag of Goodies suggested) 501.c.3 Tax ID # 27-0604668 Mailing Address: 1911 Foulk Road, Wilmington, DE 19810

See www.StockingsForSoldiers.org or E-mail Judy Travis at Judy@StockingsForSoldiers.org for more info.

“Sending Stockings Filled With Joy To Our Soldiers In Harm’s Way.”

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October 2019

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1 9 AM Morning Prayer

2 10 AM Contemplative Prayer 7 PM Brotherhood of St. Andrew

3 9 AM Morning Prayer

9:30 AM Thursday Study Group 6 PM Bell Choir 7:15 PM Choir Practice

4

5 4:30 PM Open Prayer 5:30 PM Holy Eucharist with Healing Prayer

6 PENTECOST 13 9 AM Open Prayer 10 AM Holy Eucharist 10 AM Sunday School 11:30 AM Children’s Choir 11:30 AM Adult Forum 4 PM Blessing of the Pets

7

8 9 AM Morning Prayer 9:30 AM Caring Hands Sumer Lunch Program

9 7 PM Property Committee Meeting

10 9 AM Morning Prayer 9:30 AM Thursday Study Group 7 PM Choir Practice 6 PM Bell Choir

7:15 PM Choir Practice

11 6:30 PM Family Quiz Bowl

12 4:30 PM Open Prayer 5:30 PM Holy Eucharist

13 PENTECOST 14 9 AM Open Prayer 9 AM Parish Breakfast 10 AM Holy Eucharist 10 AM Sunday School 11:30 AM Children’s Choir 11:30 AM Vestry Meeting

14 7 PM Women at the Well - ECW

15 9 AM Morning Prayer

Crook Info Due

16 10 AM Contemplative Prayer 6:30 – 8 PM Good Shepherd Quilters

17 9 AM Morning Prayer 9:30 AM Thursday Study Group

6 PM Bell Choir 7:15 PM Choir Practice

18

19 4:30 PM Open Prayer 5:30 PM Holy Eucharist

20 PENTECOST 15 9 AM Open Prayer 10 AM Holy Eucharist 10 AM Sunday School 11:30 AM Children’s Choir 11:30 AM Page Turners 11:30 AM Youth Group 12 PM CROP Walk

21

22 9 AM Morning Prayer 9:30 AM Caring Hands

23

24 9 AM Morning Prayer 9:30 AM Thursday Study Group

6 PM Bell Choir 7:15 PM Choir Practice

25

26 10 AM Camden Christmas

Fall Party 4:30 PM Open Prayer 5:30 PM Taizé Service

27 PENTECOST 16 9 AM Open Prayer 10 AM Holy Eucharist 10 AM Sunday School 11:30 AM Children’s Choir

28

29 11 AM Morning Prayer

30

31 9 AM Morning Prayer 9:30 AM Thursday Study Group 3:30 PM Halloween Table in the Courtyard

Place Fridge Magnet here!

12

Church of the Good Shepherd 315 Highland Terrace Pitman, NJ 08071

Telephone – 856-589-8209 E-mail – goodshepherdpitman@gmail.com

www.goodshepherdpitman.org

The Shepherd’s Crook

Pitman, NJ

October 2019

Church of the Good Shepherd