1

CHRIST’S UNITED’S NEWS & VIEWS MaY 2016

PASTOR’S PARAGRAPHS

I.W.I.L.L. - An Evangelism Strategy for the Church

God through the Risen Christ and by the power and authority of His Holy Spirit calls, gathers and equips us to be the church. God calls us to believe in and to trust in the life offered to us in and through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Additionally, God directs us to go forth and share the Good News (Gospel) of Christ with others under the guidance of the Holy Spirit; that is, we are called to be EVANGELISTS before the world, to bear witness to what God is doing in and through Christ for the whole world and to help bring others to the church. What follows is an evangelism strategy to guide us along the way. INITIATE and INVITE: The GOOD NEWS (Gospel) of Jesus is something we are not to keep just for ourselves. It is life-changing and life-enhancing news we are called to share with others. So as evangelists, that is, we who are Christian are called to INITIATE conversations with those outside and unfamiliar with the church and to INVITE them into the church to experience this GOOD NEWS of Jesus in a community of faith. There are so many in our neighborhoods and communities who are not in the church, therefore it will not be difficult to find others to INITIATE a conversation with about Jesus and to INVITE to church. WELCOME and WITNESS: Once we INVITE others to participate with us in the church, we need to WELCOME them into our community of faith with grace, genuine concern and steadfast care. In other words, we are to WELCOME them as Jesus has WELCOMED us into His presence. The church is to be a people and a place that provides WELCOMING comfort and care to all gathered in Jesus’ presence. And in WELCOMING others into our community of faith, we need to bear WITNESS in thought, word, and deed before others of the transformative nature of Jesus and His

2

gift of life and hope received in faith. Those whom we INVITE and WELCOME into the church hopefully will be able to WITNESS the presence of Jesus through what we say and do. INSTRUCT and INVEST: As the church, we have the responsibility to share the GOOD NEWS of Jesus with sound biblical and theological principles and foundations. For those whom we INVITE and WELCOME into our community of faith, we must INSTRUCT on the ways of God in and through Christ Jesus, to familiarize them on the teachings of Jesus and the church through the centuries, and to become regularly engaged in biblical study and theological discernment, as we ourselves have been INSTRUCTED on matters of the faithfulness of Jesus and our faith in Jesus, exemplified in a community of hope and peace. For those whom we INSTRUCT, we necessarily are called to INVEST in their presence and care with the fullness of our energies and abilities given to us in Christ and by the empowerment of His Spirit. Because Jesus has selflessly INVESTED in us, we are able to INVEST of ourselves for others. LOVE and LABOR alongside: Our participation in and as the church is so much more than simply believing in Jesus. We are called to follow Jesus and act as He acts. Jesus calls us to LOVE one another as Jesus himself demonstrates His LOVE for us, unconditionally and without interruption. To those whom we evangelize, that is, those whom we INVITE and WELCOME into our community of faith, we are called to LOVE, to LOVE as Jesus loves, to be genuinely concerned for their welfare, to assist them in their needs, to LABOR alongside them as their journey on the way of Jesus and Christian faith as we ourselves do. INSTRUCTED and LOVED in Christ, those whom we INVITED and WELCOMED hopefully will now walk with us on our Christian journey. And together our Christian faith becomes a LABOR of LOVE with and for others in Jesus’ name. And again, Jesus directs us beyond the church out into the word to continue our call to evangelize by sharing the GOOD NEWS. So we are called to… LISTEN and LOOK: As the church, we are called to be attentive to what is going on in the world around us. We are particularly called to LISTEN for and to the cries of struggle and suffering, fear and restlessness in the world and LOOK astutely for where it is that Jesus may be leading us to again share the GOOD NEWS with those who do not yet participate in the church and bear WITNESS to the LOVE of Christ. Our call to be evangelists of Jesus is constant and continuous, to be vigilant as we LISTEN and LOOK for those opportunities to follow Jesus and share His GOOD NEWS with those unfamiliar or estranged from the church. INITIATE a conversation with and INVITE. WELCOME and WITNESS to. INSTRUCT and INVEST in and with. LOVE and LABOR alongside. Continue to LISTEN and LOOK where Jesus may lead us. --Pastor John

3

BIBLE STUDIES

This month we will begin a Bible study entitled “Revelation: Unlocking the Symbolism”. The studies will take

place at the following dates and times. 10:30 A.M. 7:00 P.M. STUDY

May 2 May 2 (Mon) Seven Churches (Rev 1-3) May 9 May 11 Seven Seals (Rev 5-7) May 16 May 18 Seven Trumpets (Rev 8-11) May 23 May 25 Seven Bowls (Rev 15-16)

SPECIAL WORSHIP SERVICES IN MAy

MUSIC APPRECIATION SUNDAY MAY 1 9:00 A.M.

This month we celebrate Music Sunday, a day to recognize the centrality of music in our worship and proclamation of the Gospel. Music Sunday salutes, in words and music, the creativity, discipline, effort, and dedication of singers, instrumentalists, organists and music leaders.

Music in worship is not entertainment. It is not a performance. Music is a profound and powerful expression of faith and worship. The songs of faith, the music we sing contains words from the scriptures, from the story of God that teach about what it means to be Christian, to be faithful followers of Jesus. It is a means by which, as individuals and community, we can worship God in expressive and dynamic ways...with feeling!

4

We want to express our deepest appreciation to those who choose, conduct, present and accompany the music that influences the spirit of reverence in our worship services. We have been greatly blessed by their talent. We thank God for their hard work and dedication in bringing forth songs and music in the house of the Lord. CHANCEL CHOIR Dayna Bickhart Gary & Janet Hackenberg Tom Mecouch Bob Rantz Torey Showalter Diane Valentine Janice Wagner Joe Zimmerman Karen Zimmerman CHILDREN’S CHOIR Gailyn & Kyle Baker Natalie & Spencer Harvey Nathan Harvey Kendra & Avery Kline Jacob & Isaac Marshall Mason & Max Murray Brittany Shuck Jayden, Addalynn & Breonna Shuck

CHOIR DIRECTORS Paula Christy Diane Valentine ORGANISTS Paula Christy Gary Hackenberg PIANISTS Diane Valentine Karen Zimmerman DIGITAL MUSIC ARRANGERS Barry Spangler Dave Swartz

SERVICE, PICNIC & BLOCK PARTY AT THE PARK MAY 29 A worship service and church picnic will take place at the Mifflinburg Park on May 29. The worship service will begin at 10:30 a.m. and will be followed by a picnic. Meat and drink will be provided. You are asked to bring additional picnic fare, table service and lawn chairs for your family. You do not need to make reservations for the picnic, however we would like to have a ballpark idea of how many hot dogs and hamburgs to purchase, so if you know you are coming, talk to Dianne Shuck, Pastor John or Margie.

Following the picnic, a community block party will take place at the park beginning at 1:00 p.m. All are invited.

5

MULTI FAMILY YARD SALE

Rent a spot to have your own Yard Sale at the church on June 11 starting at 7:30 am until 2:00 pm.

Table rentals benefit Children’s Church. Advertising is included with the table rental. Rent 1 table for $12.00, 2 tables for $20.00 and each additional table $5.00. Please sign up by May 29 to rent your tables. Setup Thursday and/or Friday from 4 to 8 pm. Everyone is responsible to man their own table the day of the yard sale.

The church will provide a food stand. If you don’t want to take the remainder of your items with you after the sale is over, you can donate them to the church to use at the Winter Yard Sale. Just repack your items and we’ll take care of the rest. If you don’t want to have a stand, come anyway to join us for the fun and do some shopping. If you have any questions please contact Judy Moyer, Teresa Shuck, Wanda Stamm or Idella Zimmerman.

Sewing Days

Christ’s United’s morning Sewing Circle meets monthly to lovingly craft quilts, that are then donated through the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to Lutheran World Relief for disbursement to refugees and people in need around the world.

Our next workday is scheduled for Tuesday, May 24, 8:30-10:30. Anyone is welcome to join us. You don't have to be able to sew to help. You can also help with cutting material into squares, as well as pinning the quilts

together. Give some thought about spending this time with us, won’t you?

You will find fellowship and friendship while participating in an important ministry.

If you cannot get to a workday, but would still like to work on a quilt at home, or if you would like more information, talk to Judy Mecouch or Georgetta Bowes.

6

NOTE! The ladies can always use material to use for the quilts. If you have material left over from sewing projects, old curtains, sheets, etc. bring it in for the ladies to use. And don’t throw out that old mattress pad. Bring it to the church and we can use it for filler for the quilts. It will help to keep someone warm when it is distributed by LWR. Every piece helps.

Looking Ahead

June 11 – Spring Theme Event

August 3-9– West End Fair August 27 – Corn Roast

September 11 – Fall Kickoff October 2 – Harvest Home/Blanket Sunday/Homecoming

October 16 – Senior Member Dinner November 5 – Potpie Supper December 8-10 – Christkindl Market

Mark your calendars now and watch for more information on these events as it becomes available.

YOUTH NEWS

Natalie Harvey was selected to participate in PMEA District 8 South Chorus Fest event on April 29 at Central Columbia High School. Congratulations Natalie!!

Student recognition

Annually it is our custom to recognize any of our members who are graduating from high school or college at a special service. In order to do so, we need to know who is graduating this spring or who has graduated since last year’s graduate recognition. Please talk to Pastor John or Margie if you know of any of our members who fit this bill.

7

COUNCIL COMMUNIQUE

April 19, 2016

Communication to the Congregation from Council:

1. This year, our church will help with camping costs. We will pay $100.00/camper for any camp. Parents of interested campers must contact Barry Spangler (church camperson). Additional information will be supplied by Barry or Pastor John.

2. The Inreach Ministry will meet on Tuesday, May 3, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the small fellowship hall. One item of discussion is that we are looking for ideas for our Spring Theme Event scheduled for Saturday, June 11.

3. A final planning session for the May 29 community block party at the Mifflinburg Community Park will be held on Wednesday, May 11, at 6:00 p.m. Anyone willing to help is strongly encouraged to attend.

4. On Sunday, May 29, we will hold our worship service and picnic with First Lutheran of Mifflinburg at the Mifflinburg Community Park. Worship will start at 10:30 a.m., following by a picnic. Both churches will supply the hamburgers, hot dogs, rolls and drinks. Attending members will be asked to bring a covered dish and/or other food items to share.

5. A community block party will be held at the Mifflinburg Community Park on Sunday, May 29, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for all ages. All people from the community is invited to participate. Events, games, snacks and access to the pool, are planned for the kids as well as people of all ages. Help will be appreciated. Anyone willing to help is invited to attend a final planning session being held at the church on Wednesday, May 11, at 6:00 p.m. Questions may be forwarded to Dave Murray in the meantime.

6. The Children’s Sunday School teachers are holding a yard sale for Saturday, June 11 from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Table rentals will benefit the Children’s Church. They ask that interested vendors sign up by Sunday, May 29. Details about rental fees and other yard sale information may be forwarded to Judy Moyer, Teresa Shuck, Idella Zimmerman or Wanda Stamm.

7. Vacation Bible School (VBS) will be held at our church from Sunday, June 12 thorough Thursday, June 16. More details will be forthcoming.

8

TREASURER’S REPORT

As of April 30,2016

Actual Budgeted Income for month $12,561.00 $13,151.00 Expenses for month $12,940.00 $12,998.00 Difference -$372.00 Actual Budgeted Income Year-to-date $64,983.00 $53,041.00 Expenses Year-to-date $63,909.00 $52,426.00 Difference $1,044.00

Parking Lot Loan Balance $15,164.57 Heating System Balance $2,524.94

Synod Assembly

The 29th Annual Assembly of the Upper Susquehanna Synod will be held at Susquehanna University on June 17-18, 2016. The theme of this year’s assembly is “Freed and Renewed in Christ.” Barry Spangler and Amy Shuck will serve as our lay representatives. Some highlights:

•! The election of the synod’s third bishop. •! Bible Study with The Rev. Dr. Raymond Pickett from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. •! Greetings from our Churchwide Representative, Mr. Carlos Peña, vice president of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. •! The ordination of at least one candidate to the Office of Word and Sacrament. •! Dinner and entertainment featuring “The Boyz,” a choral ensemble. •! Workshops

Singers Needed for Assembly Choir: You are invited to sing as part of the choir that will provide musical leadership for the Eucharist on Saturday, June 18, at 10:15 a.m. in Weber Chapel Auditorium at SU. In addition to leading the liturgy and hymns, the choir will prepare special music for the

9

service. Adult and high school singers who would like to sing in the Assembly Choir should have some choral experience in church and/or school. Being able to read music is helpful but not required. Two rehearsals are scheduled for Sunday afternoons, May 22, and June 5, from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. in the chapel of Zion, Sunbury. A “warm-up” rehearsal will take place at the Horn Chapel at 9:30 a.m. prior to the service. If you plan to sing in the choir, please contact David Reier by May 16, 2016, at dreier@ptd.net. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact Reier at 570-847-3435. Pages Needed for Synod Assembly: Calling all youth (who have completed at least sixth grade), college students, and seminarians! The 2016 USS Synod Assembly is looking for pages. You’ll be needed on Friday and Saturday, June 17-18, from 7:45 a.m. until the end of the day. Responsibilities include handing out papers, bulletins, and other materials as well as serving as ushers for worship and counting votes when asked. All pages receive meals and a free T-shirt! If you have interested youth, please send their names to brenda@usselca.org. Live Tweet from Upper Susquehanna Synod Assembly: We will also live “tweet” from our synod assembly. This year, we invite others to also tweet from the assembly and use this hashtag: #ussynod16. If you’d like to see what is happening at assembly in June, search for the Twitter hashtag or visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/usselca.

Upper Susquehanna Synodical Women's Organization

LETTER OF CALL TO: Congregational/Inter-Congregational Unit Presidents/Contacts, Participants of the Upper Susquehanna Synodical Women's Organization From: Stephanie Lewis, USSWO President

You are invited to attend the Twenty-Ninth Annual Convention of the Women of the ELCA, Upper Susquehanna Synod, July 23, 2016 at Camp Mount Luther, Mifflinburg, PA. Please plan to be present for this one-day convention as it brings an excellent opportunity for you to meet your sisters from neighboring churches and become informed about the workings of the Women of the ELCA.

10

CONVENTION THEME: “Winds of Change” SCRIPTURE TEXT: John 3:8 CONVENTION HYMN: “Spirit of Gentleness” REGISTRATION: A registration form can be obtained from the church office and may be copied for additional registrations. I encourage you to bring several (many) women from your unit to this one-day convention. I would like to encourage participation especially by women under the age of 40. We anticipate a day of worship, business and Workshops to uplift us in the name of Christ. Every person who attends convention must pay a registration fee which help to cover the cost of printed materials and other items such as rental fees for Camp Mount Luther, refreshments, lunch, insurance and honorariums which are necessary to carry out a convention. Please note that this year we are reducing the cost for families to attend. A mother/daughter will pay $60 instead of $80. If there is more than one daughter, the second and each subsequent daughter will pay $10 for registration. Questions? Talk to Judy Mecouch.

11

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

ALTAR FLOWERS The 2016 altar flower chart is on the bulletin board outside of the sanctuary for use by anyone wishing to provide flowers for a service next year. Dates that are still available to sponsor altar flowers this year are: May 29; July 17 & 31; September 4; October 2; December 11. The cost of the flowers is $35.00 per week and is payable to the church. FREE ENERGY CREDIT

There is a free energy credit available to the church. If you want help to lower the church's electric bill, and save money on your own electric bill contact Greg Shuck for details.

REIMBURSEMENT UPDATE

Please talk to Dianne Shuck, Al Pantaleo for information on how to obtain a reimbursement for expenses you may have for the church.

COFFEE CANS NEEDED We are in need of coffee cans to be used to send altar flowers home following a worship service. If you have any to spare, please drop them off at the kitchen or in the office.

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT

We are looking for volunteers to fill the following positions: 1. Baby News Correspondent

When a new baby is born to a member of the congregation, the responsibility of the baby news correspondent is to contact the family and get “vital statistics” and

12

then write a short article for the newsletter. Talk to Margie if you would like to tackle this position.

2. Greeters, Lay Readers, Communion Assistants, Ushers and Sound System Operators. Our list of people willing to do these jobs keeps dwindling. Will you help? Sign up on the attached “volunteer form” and drop them on Margie’s desk or put them in the offering plate. 3. Someone to sharpen pencils and replenish communion cards and comment cards in the sanctuary. COMMUNIONS Communions for all confirmed members must be recorded in the parish register annually. If you do not commune on a regular basis, we ask that you fill out a communion record card (one per year is all we need) so we know you have communed. The cards are located in the racks on the back of the pews. Cards may be put in the offering plate or handed to an usher.

MEMORABILIA

The following memorabilia items are still available for anyone interested in purchasing anything:

Wooden Miniatures of the Church - $10.00 Church Prints - $20.00

Blankets - $10.00 Christmas Cards - $10.00

12 cards per box feature a winter picture of the church

Talk to Bev Catherman if you have questions about, or would like to purchase, any of these items.

INFORMANTS WANTED

We like to publish news about our members in the newsletter, but we need your help to do so. If you know of interesting information about any of our members (youth or adult), i.e. an award or recognition, a funny tale or exciting adventure, please let Margie know about it so we can include it in an issue of Christ’s United’s News & Views. DO WE HAVE YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS?

13

If you have an e-mail address that you have never given to us or if it has changed,

please fill out the following and drop it off on Margie’s desk or give her a call.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Name________________________________________________________________ E-Mail Address_________________________________________ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HAVE A FAVORITE HYMN?

Over the past few years, some of you have been requesting favorite hymns and gospel songs and for that we give many thanks. Because of U.S. copyright laws, we do not have permission to reproduce or copy all of our favorites. You may choose selections from the following hymnals: Evangelical Lutheran Worship (ELW), Lutheran Book of Worship (LBW) and With One Voice (WOV). We are also permitted to use hymns that are in the “Public Domain”. It’s all very complicated. So, keep your suggestions coming and we will be happy to sort out and use all of your suggestions. Give any requests to Gary Hackenberg, Margie or Pastor John. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hymn Request ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SOCIAL/FELLOWSHIP REQUEST

If you have any ideas or suggestions for social/fellowship activities, drop a note on Margie’s desk. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social/Fellowship Events:

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PRAYER CHAIN

The Prayer Chain is a group of men and women of Christ’s United who pray for the concerns and requests of Christ’s United’s members and friends. Someone in need of

14

prayer calls the church office and requests to be put on the Prayer Chain. Each member of the Prayer Chain then receives either a phone call or an email notifying them of a prayer request. The prayer chain member receiving the phone call then calls one other person and so on down the list. Those notified by email do not have to pass it on. Would you be willing to pray for someone in need? It is reassuring to know that you are supported by the prayers of others and not alone with your concern. If you would like to be a member of the Prayer Chain, fill out the following and put it in the offering plate or on Margie’s desk. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Prayer Chain Calling List I would like to be included on the prayer chain calling list. Name____________________________________ Telephone Number__________________________ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BUILDING & GROUND NEEDS

Do you know of any physical problems (or potential problems) that should be addressed by our property committee? Your insight is important. Maybe you have seen something that no one else has noticed yet. You can talk to Pastor John, any council member or Margie if you know of something that needs attention, or fill out the following and put it on Margie’s desk or in the offering plate. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Building & Ground Needs: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ONGOING COLLECTIONS

The Shriners

Can Tabs (give tabs to Maurice Clouser)

15

NEWS OF MEMBERS & FRIENDS

Birthdays

May

1 – David Bickhart 2 - Daphne Clouser 3 – Kathy Spangler 4 – Joel Blyler 5 – Wendy Doebler 6 – Winifred Aikey Laurie Harvey Matthew Sanders Linda Swartz 7 – Bev Catherman 9 – Gary Hackenberg Kurtis VonNeida

10 – Sheila Jean Levits 11 – Caroline Wenrick 12 – Tom Greeney 13 – Emily Mee 17 – Kay Stamm 19 – Lucas Harvey 21 – Frances Wenrich 22 – Sam Schnure Elizabeth Shuck 23 – Brantley Baker 25 – Ryan Zartman 26 – Shirley Aikey 27 – Alan Haggy Dottie Rathfon

Anniversaries 2 - Chad & Amy Shuck (1998) 4 - Roger & Margie Dunkle (1968) 5 –Tony & Wendy Zartman (2001) 9 – Michael & Stacey Campbell (2007) 12 – Eric Dunkle & Brenna Bunting (2001) Chris & Lindsey Snyder (2007) 13 – Mike & Amber Hackenberg (2000) 16 – Forrest & Torey Showalter (1981) 19 – Kevin & Autumn Shuck (2001) 22 – Lucas & Mandie Flickinger (2010) 27 – Rian & Robin Rantz (2000) 31 - Matthew & Dawn Dreese (2008)

16

Remember In Thought and Prayer

Please help us keep our prayer list current by letting us know of any names that should be added or

removed

Our Members Jim & Florence Boop Pearl Gemberling Vickie Kahler Shirley Kerstetter Max Miller Diane Reamer Teresa Shuck Chuck Spurr Dave Swartz Stacey Veley Arletta Zimmerman

Our Friends & Relatives Ronald Bastian Leslie Cooper Mike Furgison Jason, Stacie & James Grohman Bella Guisewite Dave Jacka Linda Katherman Gerald & Thelma (Liz) Lloyd Jeanne McGlaughlin Jeanne Meckley Helen Metz Pat & Candy Mitchell Vicki Newman Ruth & Donald Raker Linda Ruder Beverly Schreffler Bill & Shirley Smith Joel Templin Mark Troup Leslie Valentine Ron Weaner David Woods

Our Shut-Ins Carolyn Bowersox Barbara Grimooris Leona Hackenberg Shirley Kerstetter Pat Korman Betty Lauf Eugene Phillips Harold ‘Hap’ Sampsell Myron ‘Mick’ Sampsell Richard Schnure Connie Wagner Betty Wallace Caroline Wenrick Debra Wilson The Men and Women Serving In the Military Brandi Gemberling Michael Spurr

17

In an effort to keep our prayer current, we are going to clear the current list on a quarterly basis. New lists will begin in January, April, July, and October. If you want to continue an existing prayer request or have a new prayer concern, please contact Margie.

355 Mt. Luther Lane, Mifflinburg, PA 17844 Telephone (570) 922-1587 Fax (570) 922-1118

E-mail: cml@campmountluther.org

Dear Parents, Campers, and Friends:

We welcome everyone to come experience our programs! Regardless of where you are from, what you look like, or whether you go to church or not we want you to experience Mount Luther! We are in the mountains, nearly surrounded by the Bald Eagle State Forest where you will see wildlife as you visit our trails, campsites, worship sites, fields, pool, and pond. We provide well-trained staff to lead you and are accredited by the American Camp Association. This means that we meet the highest standards of the camping industry, including safety. But what is more important about the camp experience is the changes you find after you return home. Camp gives a legacy for your life; so, consider all the growth that could happen:

Grow socially. At camp, social interactions are important. We practice small group camping, with a cabin of boys working with a cabin of girls and their counselors. We model how to treat one another when you meet someone new. We expect good group living skills as we build communities. We teach conflict resolution when disagreements occur. You will probably leave here with new lifelong friends and memories of how to work and live together in healthy ways.

Grow physically. At camp, we do a lot of stuff outside and are active all day. Our food service staff provides meals that are nutritionally balanced. Rest time is encouraged each day. We also model how to effectively use leisure and recreation time. When you have free time at home, maybe you’ll remember your time at camp and want to be outdoors, playing in nature. Recreation can be re-creation for our bodies, minds, and souls.

Grow mentally. At camp, real learning takes place. When on the field of play, you’ll learn sports skills. At crafts you’ll learn techniques such as hand/eye coordination. You’ll have opportunities to meet staff and campers from places and

18

cultures that are different than their own. You can try new things and gain some knowledge and skill in areas that you have not yet explored. Camp is also great at developing leaders.

Grow spiritually. At camp, we believe that faith is caught, not taught, so we spend time Gathering and Reflecting On God’s Word through readings, songs, games, and demonstrations. Camp can change your relationship with God and can make your life even better than you imagined! Our program is faith-based so what we do is grounded in experiences to strengthen your faith and give you the ability to make choices in life based on a set of core values.

Look through the brochure to learn more about our adventure, base, classic, day, extreme, and family camps. We have something for everyone! If you are a returning camper, I hope you’ll consider bringing a friend who has never been to camp. Make sure that if you have a cabinmate request, you put it on your registration form. We assign your cabinmates based on your program, age, and your requests! See you this summer!

Chad Hershberger, Executive Director

PLEASE NOTE! This year, our church will pay $100.00/camper for any camp. Parents of interested campers must contact Barry Spangler (church camperson). Additional information will be supplied by Barry or Pastor John

Adventure Camps

Canada Adventure: July 1-10 - Get your passport ready! This camp is for those who like extreme adventure. Eighth through twelfth graders will canoe, hike, and whitewater raft on the Ottawa River in Canada. This camp is being held in conjunction with Camp Krislund.

NYC Mission/Adventure: June 26- July 1 - This camp is a new offering and is for the person who wants to make a difference in the big city. Seventh through twelfth graders will travel with other campers from a Presbyterian camp to the Big Apple, New York City, for a few days of service most likely in a New York soup kitchen. There may also be time to explore the city, too, after your days of hard work.

Rock, Raft, and Roll: July 31- August 5 - This new camp is for those in Grades 7-10. You’ll travel to the Lehigh Valley to do some rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and bicycling. There may even be some caving! Trip leadership will be shared by Mount Luther, Krislund, and Wesley Forest camp staffs.

19

Scuba Adventure: July 24-29 - This camp will allow campers to practice scuba diving and by the end of the week be a certified scuba diver. You’ll do this at both Camp Krislund, a local Presbyterian camp, and in the Susquehanna River. For ages 12 and up.

Base Camps

APPLE/CORPS: June 19-24; June 19-21; June 22-24 - Who says camp is just for kids? APPLE/CORPS is for adults to enjoy a time of rest, unplug from the “real world” and get re-rooted in faith. Come for the whole week or a half-week session from Sunday to Wednesday noon or Wednesday 3 p.m. to Friday 6 p.m. Cost: Use half-week base camp fee for half-week sessions; classic camp fee for full-week program.

CML Base Camp: July 31- August 5 - For juniors and intermediates who want camp with a twist. Come to Base Camp when we DO NOT go on an overnight camping trip but rather sleep in cabins every night. You’ll still get the traditional camp activities but won’t have to sleep out in the woods!

Empty Nesters: June 29- July 1 - This camp is for adults who don’t have any children at home. Come for three days and two nights and participate in our program that week and spend time with other adults, growing in your faith and spending time outdoors. Cost: Use half-week base camp fee.

Explorers: June 26- 28; July 10-12 - “Explorers” is our new name for the former three-day “mini-pioneer” camp. Come experience Mount Luther for a shorter stay. Our June session features extra water activities for you to do. Our July features these holiday celebrations: New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and Patriotic Days. Cost: Use half-week base camp fee.

LEADS: July 5-8 - This year, we have three different programs for Senior High campers to KNOW, GROW and GO! This is the “know” camp, where you will learn about leadership and planning. Come to LEADS and X-Teen and you’ll have close to ten days at camp (you’ll just have to go home for the weekend!) Cost: Use half-week base camp fee.

Sprouts: July 10-12; July 31-August 2 - This three-day camp is for campers in grades 3-5 who want to experience a shorter Mount Luther stay. Spend half a week making new friends your age, doing crafts, nature activities, swimming, playing games, and growing in faith. If you come July 10-12, you’ll be part of our Holiday Celebration week. Cost: Use half-week base camp fee.

20

Trail Blazers: June 15-16; July 21-22 - Our youngest campers (Grades K-3) can spend time in God’s creation with the security of a loved one here! Camp starts at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 1:00 p.m. the next day. Pack all the fun and adventure of camp into 28 hours and don’t forget to bring a parent or grandparent with you. Special Cost: $100 per child or $150 for parent and child. If you’d like to do another time instead of these dates, contact the camp office.

Classic Camps

Juniors and Intermediates: June 19-24 Pioneers, Juniors, and Intermediates: July 10-15 This is the camp for those who want to get a taste of all Mount Luther has to offer. Swimming, games, crafts, an overnight camping trip, electives, campfires, and GROW Time are essential parts of the typical week. During the July 10-15 week, we will be observing Holiday Celebration week. Each day, we’ll celebrate different holidays including Christmas!

X-Teen: July 10-15 - This year, we have three different programs for Senior High campers to KNOW, GROW and GO! This is the “grow” camp, where you can grow emotionally, physically, socially, and spiritually. LEADS campers will plan some of this week, you’ll have a say in what you do plus we’ll have some special activities, including celebrations of holidays!

Day Camps

Daily Theme Day Camp: June 12-16 - Pioneers and juniors attend camp during the day with a different daily theme! Royalty, pirate, rainbow, and superhero days will add to the normal day camp experience. This day camp will run from Sunday (2:45-8:00 p.m.) and then Monday to Thursday (9-4) with an optional overnight stay on Wednesday.

“Pick Your Days” Day Camp: August 1-5 - Preschoolers (at least three and potty-trained) through third graders can come to camp for just one, a couple, or all five days of this offering. The day will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Campers must also bring a bag lunch each day. Cost: $25 per day; come all five days for the price of four ($100). No other discounts apply.

APPLE A Day: August 1-5 - This is a new program for adults to come to camp for a day away from 9:30 to 2:30! Come yourself, bring a few friends, or even drop your child off for “Pick Your Day” Day Camp and stay for good food, GROW Time, crafts, and

21

activities geared to adults. Cost: $25 per day; come all five days for the price of four ($100). No other discounts apply.

Extreme Camps

CLAWS: June 26- July 1 - Juniors and intermediates can join us for a week where you will have time to engage in Crafts, Legos, and Wild Sports! If you have craft projects, Lego projects, or an idea for a wild sport, bring it along! Express your creativity during this program! There will also be some time to learn the basics of sewing and you’ll put together your own sewing project!

Fishing Camp: June 12-16 - Those in Grades 4-6 can sign up for this program and spend time on the camp pond, local streams, and even visit a few hatcheries. We’ll even supply the worms and a limited amount of rods. Please bring fishing equipment if you’d like. Special Discount: $50 off of normal extreme fee due to the shortened week.

Guppies and Minnows: June 26- July 1 - Get your feet wet as you enjoy a week of fun in one of God’s most exciting resources- water! We’ll have extra swim time, water games, fishing, and more. Bring a few bathing suits and a few towels!

Hammock Haven: June 12-16 - A new offering for intermediate campers, this camp will create a hammock village at one of our campsites, where the campers will sleep each night and work to spruce up the campsite. Please bring your own hammock. Special Discount: $50 off of normal “extreme” fee due to the shortened week.

Intern: July 31- August 5 - This year, we have three different programs for Senior High campers to KNOW, GROW and GO! This is the “go” camp, where you will take the skills you learn and put them into practice! Learn what it’s like to be a counselor and help in all aspects of the week, including planning, GROW Time, games leading, and supervising campers.

Morning Glories: June 12-16 - New this year, a camp offering for those who aren’t night owls, but like to get up early in the morning! Junior campers will get up before breakfast and do activities like watch the sunrise, take morning hikes, polar bear swims, or a 7:00 a.m. Gaga Ball game! Special Discount: $50 off of normal “extreme” fee due to the shortened week.

Night Owls: July 17-22 - During this week, junior and intermediate campers will stay up later each night and do nighttime activities like flashlight tag, star gazing, night hikes, Capture the Flag, and maybe even a drive-in style movie or sleeping in the field

22

and a night of electives! We’ll also use glow sticks and look for things that go bump in the night!

Family Camp - We proudly present the family vacation everyone can enjoy from July 5-8, 2016! Singles, couples, grandparents, and anyone who wants an inspirational vacation should come for GROW Time, camp activities, family time, and nap times! We’ll be using a Western theme this year and are expanding our time together as Family Camp will be a Tuesday afternoon to Friday evening time frame this year.

***

Bishop's Open Golf Classic May 9, 2016 The annual Bishop Open's Golf Classic is set for May 9, 2016, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Susquehanna Valley Country Club in Shamokin Dam. The tournament benefits Camp Mount Luther and the camp’s annual fund. A flyer/bulletin insert containing information and registration form is available on the camp’s website at www.campmountluther.org. The camp’s golf tournament committee is currently looking for hole sponsors, door prize sponsors, silent auction items, and golfers. If you can help, please contact the camp office at 570-922-1587 or cml@campmountluther.org. Congregations are also encouraged to become hole sponsors. Get involved and help our synod’s outdoor ministry!

CML Spring Work Day May 14, 2016

Practice stewardship through service at Camp Mount Luther at their Annual Spring Work Day on Saturday, May 14, 2016, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. They need your help getting the camp grounds and facilities ready for summer. There will be plenty to do and everyone in the family can help! Please bring supplies to do cleaning, mulching, raking, and light construction projects such as step ladders, buckets, rakes, etc. A light lunch will be served. RSVP by May 6 if staying for lunch to cml@campmountluther.org or 570-922-1587. Want to know about camp and its programs? Contact them at the address above.

~~~

Summer camps make a determined effort to hire staff members who meet the highest possible

standards of maturity and responsibility. But eventually they give up and hire college students.

23

IN THE MAILbag

AUTHORIZED LAY WORSHIP LEADERS

A new class for Authorized Lay Worship Leaders will begin in September 2016. The two-year program meets the second Saturday of each month at the Washingtonville Lutheran Church. Classes are taught by seminary professors, college instructors and others. Cost of the program is $1050 plus books. For more information contact Pastor Melody Sell at prmsell2@ptd.net.

LUTHERAN MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKENDS

Attention Married Couples: Thousands of couples have learned that taking some time to “tune-up” their marriages pays huge dividends. Lutheran Marriage Encounter Weekends are designed to strengthen and revitalize marriages whether you have been married a year or 60 years. Registrations are being taken for the two fall Weekends at lovely, hotel-style retreat centers: September 16-18 Weekend at Spruce Lake Retreat Center in the Poconos or October 21-23 at Olmsted Retreat Center in Ludlow, PA. All costs for 2 nights lodging, 5 meals for each of you, and supplies are covered by a $100.00 per couple registration fee plus a confidential contribution of whatever amount you wish that you are given the opportunity to make toward the end of the weekend. To register online, go to: www.GodLovesMarriage.org, or for further information, contact Fred & Julie Schamber, PA Directors, at: fjschamber@comcast.net or 724-325-3166.

~~~

Blessed is the mother Who can hold onto her children while letting them go; Who puts a tranquil home ahead of an immaculate house; Who knows a kind act will be remembered longer than an easy word; Who really believe that prayer changes things; Whose faith in the future sweetens the present; Whose Bible never needs dusting; Whose sense of humor is alive and well.

24

NOTES OF APPRECIATION

“Volunteers are gold”. Volunteers are the most valuable commodities in ministry. Without them, nothing would get done in our churches. We are fortunate to have the kind of dedicated people that we do. Do you know anyone who should be given a pat on the back and a “Thank You” for the contributions they make in and around the church? Let Margie know.

THANK YOU TO…

…Pastor John for the time you spend, the hours you give, for all you do for us, for the teachings that have touched our hearts and opened our eyes and for helping us to grow spiritually

…Bev Catherman, Mary Hassinger, Shirley Kerstetter, June Wenrich for choosing to direct Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Choice Dollars to our church

…Each & Everyone that serve in so many capacities throughout the year (many that go unnoticed)

…Those who lent a hand with the Chicken Barbecue…committee members, cooks, servers, bakers, ticket sellers, workday participants, as well as those who partook of the meal.

…Those who helped with the operation of the food stand at Betty Wallace’s sale. …Everyone who took part in any way with the myriad of Lent and Easter activities…helping with Easter eggs, providing music, aiding in a worship service, assisting in decorating (or undecorating) the sanctuary, ordering the Easter flowers or helping with the breakfasts and suppers that were served

25

ALTAR GUILD Katherine Hassinger Eugene Hassinger GREETERS 1 – Betty Goss 8 – Ken & Patty Emery 15 - Bev Catherman 22 - Chuck & Janet Spurr 29 - Picnic &

Block Party LAY READERS 1 – Maurice Clouser 8 – Drew Christy 15 – Kathy Spangler 22 – Janet Hackenberg 29 - Barry Spangler

SOUND SYSTEM Dave Bickhart

USHERS Tom Catherman Don Fornwalt MUSIC PROVIDERS 1 - Paula Christy 8 - Diane Valentine 15 - Dave Swartz 22 – Gary Hackenberg 29 - Picnic &

Block Party COMMUNION ASSISTANTS 1 – Bev Catherman 8 – Dianne Shuck 15 – Lee Spangler 22 – Janet Hackenberg 29 – Barry Spangler

REMINDER YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR FINDING A SUBSTITUTE IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO BE HERE WHEN SCHEDULED. ALTAR GUILD MEMBERS, SOUND SYSTEM OPERATORS & USHERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY SPECIAL SERVICES SCHEDULED DURING THE MONTH.

26

If you would like to be added to our list of volunteers to help with one or more of the following positions,

please fill it out and return it to the church office.

USHER

I/we will serve as an usher

Name_____________________________________

Telephone_________________________________

CHILDREN’S CHURCH

I/we will help with children’s

church

Name____________________________________

Telephone________________________________

SOUND SYSTEM OPERATOR

I/we will operate the sound

system

Name_____ _______________________________

Telephone________________________________

ALTAR GUILD

I/we will serve on the altar

guild

Name____________________________________

Telephone________________________________

COMMUNION HELPER

I/we will serve as a

communion helper

Name___________________________________

Telephone_______________________________

GREETERS

I/we will serve as greeters

Name___________________________________

Telephone_______________________________

LAY READER

I/we will serve as a lay reader

Name_____________________________________

Telephone_________________________________

27

Christ’s United Lutheran Church 13765 Old Turnpike Rd Millmont Pa 17845 570-922-1860 church’s e-mail: culc@dejazzd.com pastor’s e-mail:

pastorjohn@4bellschurch.com website: www.4bellschurch.com

Office Hours: Mon-Thu – 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Fri – Closed

STAFF The Congregation ........................................ The Ministers The Rev. John D. Yost ............................................ Pastor Margie Dunkle ................................................ Sec/Asst Tr Dianne Shuck .................................................... Treasurer Janet Hackenberg ...................................................Asst Tr Al Pantaleo ....................................................... Data Entry Tom Catherman ................................................. Custodian Paula Christy & Gary Hackenberg ...................... Organists

Diane Valentine & Karen Zimmerman ................... Pianists

COUNCIL MEMBERS

Officers Lee Spangler, President

Drew Christy, Vice President Barry Spangler, Council Secretary

Ministry Assignments

Facilities/Administration

(deals with property, personnel and stewardship)

Jim Boop, Tom Catherman

Eugene Hassinger

Inreach (focus on ministry

within the congregation)

Greg Shuck Lee Spangler Janet Spurr

Outreach (related to ministry

beyond the congregation)

Drew Christy Dianne Shuck Linda Smith

THE DEADLINE FOR

ARTICLES FOR THE

JUNE

NEWSLETTER IS

MAY 23

28

THE M.I.S.S.I.O.N OF CHRIST’S UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH

Meet – we meet each other as sisters and brothers in Christ Invite – we invite and welcome others into the body of Christ Share – we share the good news of Jesus and our gifts with all Support – we support each other as we walk in the ways of Jesus Imagine – we imagine life filled with God’s purpose and grace Offer – we offer ourselves to God through faith, hope and love Nourish – we nourish one another in the Word, by the Spirit

Christ’s United Lutheran Church is a community of faith, gathered, empowered and entrusted with the good news of Jesus Christ to bear witness that we are one body in Christ as together we worship God in all praise and thanksgiving and we serve one another with unconditional love and mercy.

PLEASE CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE… …when a member of your family is sick or is admitted to the hospital, so that visits can be made and the proper people notified. …when your address and phone number is changed, so the church records can be corrected. …when you move—out of town or locally. …when a new baby arrives in your family or in the family of another church member. …when a member of your family leaves home for college or to establish a new residence. …when a new family moves into your neighborhood. …when your class or group plans to have a meeting, so that it can be cleared and placed on the church calendar. …when something good happens to you or your family. …when you feel the church can assist you in any way

29

A MEMORIAL DAY PRAYER FOR OUR MILITARY AND MILITARY FAMILIES

Heavenly Father, Today is yours. We thank you for giving us this beautiful opportunity to honor the men and women who so bravely served this country in the past as well as in the present. Father we ask you to bless and strengthen those brave souls who selflessly give of themselves without asking anything in return. We ask you to heal our wounded warriors who returned home in pain after they gave their all for this great land. Bless them. Restore their souls. Heal their bodies. Bring salvation to the lost. Father we ask you to bless the families of our military who stay behind while their loved one goes into battle. Keep them safe and provide for their needs according to your abundance. Lord, we pray for a special blessing upon the families whose loved one gave his or her life to this country. Keep them safe and comfort their hearts. Lord, we ask you to anoint our Chaplains and others who bring the Word to our military. Bless their ministry and bring a great harvest of souls from their efforts. Father, we ask you to forgive the sins of this nation as well as the sins of the leaders who have forgotten how to pray. Have mercy on all Americans and bring us to a state of repentance in these difficult times. We ask you to forgive our pride as a nation and deliver us from the evil that has come upon us. You alone are righteous and holy. You alone are worthy of praise. We thank you for hearing our prayer! In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen

30

May 2015

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 MUSIC

SUNDAY 9:00 Worship 10:00 Koinonia Kafe 10:15 Sunday School

2 10:30 Bible Study 7:00 Bible Study

3 4 10:00 Hope’s Haven

5 6 7

8 9:00 Worship 10:15 Sunday School

MOTHER’S DAY

9 10:30 Bible Study

10 11 10:00 Hope’s Haven

7:00 Bible Study

12 13 14

Fellowship Hall Reerved

15 PENTECOST 9:00 Worship 10:15 Sunday School

16 10:30 Bible Study

17

7:00 Council

18 10:00 Hope’s Haven

7:00 Bible Study

19 20 21

Fellowship Hall

Reserved

22 9:00 Worship, Confirmation 10:15 Sunday School TBA Piano Recital

23 10:30 Bible Study

24 8:30 Quilting

25 10:00 Hope’s Haven

7:00 Bible Study

26

1:00 Bloodmobile

27 28

29 9:00 Worship, Picnic @ Mfbg Park 1:00 Block Party @ Mfbg Park

30

MEMORIAL DAY

31

31

It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is.

And when you've got it, you want –

oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want,

but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!"-

~Mark Twain