new the messenger - clover...
TRANSCRIPT
THE MESSENGER
September 2012
Share The Journey.
new
New Members ................................... 2
Sunday School Class List .................. 3,4
Welcome Walk to Emmaus ................ 4
Contributions, What’s Your Pleasure .. 5
Hot Time, Summer in the Sanctuary ... 7
Bishop Peggy Johnson......................... 9
Notes from the Music Guy ................ 10
Children’s Update ............................. 12
Rally Day ........................................... 15
Last month I shared my excitement about having attended the Northeast Jurisdictional Conference where Rev. Dr. Sandra Steiner Ball was elected a bishop in the United Methodist Church. I am following up this month with a continuation of that article highlighting the rest of what was accomplished by this gathering of United Methodist clergy and laity. As Delegates to the 2012 NEJ Conference, we also did the following:
Celebrated the ministries of retiring Bishop Ernest Lyght, Bishop Jane Allen Middleton and Bishop Peter Weaver.
Elected Sandra L. Steiner Ball, Martin D. McLee and Mark J. Webb as bishops.
Celebrated the work of outgoing Secretary Ruth Daugherty and outgoing Treasurer Dwight Crain.
Elected Thomas Salsgiver and Sharon Darlynn McCrae as new secretary and assistant secretary respectively for next quadrennium.
Elected David Simpson and Jennifer Williams as new treasurer and assistant treasurer respectively for the next quadrennium.
Approved the 2013-2016 budget of $1,052,925.
Donated $3,910.08 as offering to further the work of the United Methodist Appalachian Ministry Network.
Asked the annual conferences’ boards of ordained ministry to consider requiring all clergy candidates to participate in a VIM experience prior to ordination or licensure.
Approved changing the Native American Task Force into the Northeastern Jurisdiction Native American Ministries Committee.
Approved a resolution by the NEJ Urban Steering Network to ask annual conferences to promote the urban ministry by awarding “Kim Jefferson Award for Effective Urban Ministry.”
Affirmed a statement of grace, full inclusion.
Approved supporting the $75 million campaign by Imagine No Malaria to help eradicate the disease from the world.
(Dear Friends… Continued on page 4)
Dear Friends...
Important Dates
September 9 @ 10 a.m.—
Single Unified Worship Service
in the Sanctuary
Sunday, September 16 Regular
Worship Times & Sunday
School Resume:
8:30 a.m. A Time of Reflec-
tion in the Sanctuary
8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship
in the Sanctuary with Special
Music
9 a.m. Journey Contemporary
Worship Service in the
Auditorium
10 a.m. Sunday School for All
11 a.m. Traditional Worship
with the Chancel Choir in the
Sanctuary
Share the Journey 2 September 2012
Amazing Blessings Continue for Family Promise! By Sarah Ogilby, Family Promise Coordinator for Aldersgate
God works in wonderful and mysterious ways and only one week before we were to host four families in our church for a week, another miracle happened. During the week of August 19 through 26, we expected to host
4 families, but 2 of those families graduated from the Family Promise program and so we were left with only 2 families, comprised of 7 people. However, over the last 2 years of hosting, we have learned to be flexible and so on the Friday just before our hosting week began we were blessed to learn that another family would join us.
So far this year twelve families have been successful in finding gainful employment and a home to call their own. GOD IS SO GOOD!!! The Family Promise program continues to be a blessing to so many people who, due to various circumstances, have found themselves without work and a home —”in between” — homeless.
As I said, blessings continue to pour down on Family Promise and no, I am not surprised. As stated in Deuteronomy 15:10 “Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.”
Thank you to the following people who were the hands and feet of Christ during our hosting week. Know that the program would not happen if you were not good servants---Blessings to each of you! Barbara Buckley, David & Libby Campbell, Bill Culliton, Kathy Daum, Betsy Diemer, Kathy Harding, Nancy Hough, Dianne Huddleston, John Jennelly, Sharon Jennelly, Bill & Mary Johnston, Mary Lou Landis, Ned Landis, Brian Merritt, Chase Merritt, Cheryl Merritt, Tyler Merritt, Roger Mosquera, Amanda Moyer, Ruth Overbey, Laura Parrish, Bonnie Rambo, Sue Reader, Susan Schranck, Joanne Smeltz, Taber Smith, Jan Wood, Jennifer & Nicole Xenakes, Ladies of Hannah Circle, Moose Scout Troup and Mt Lebanon UMC Emmaus Group. (If any name was missed, please accept our apologies.)
The largest thank you goes to Teresa (T C) Yarbrough who has been the co-coordinator for the last two years in the program. Unfortunately for Aldersgate, TC is being transferred in her job to Fayetteville, NC and we will all miss her enthusiasm and willingness to help in any way needed, not only in Family Promise but as a greeter, reading liturgy, providing hospitality and serving on the Lead Team as Finance Chair. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
If you are interested in getting involved in the Family Promise Ministry at Aldersgate, we would love to have you join in serving those who need our help. We will host again from November 11 to 18 and would love to have you join in this wonderful outreach ministry!
FAMILY PROMISE COORDINATOR: Sarah Ogilby, 302-998-6334, [email protected]
Left: Girish Nair & Shraddha Walter, Ava with parents Janet,
Peter Kartanos and Roger Mosquera (Roger’s wife, Naychi is
absent from the photo) Peter & Janet Kartanos:
My wife Janet and I met nine years ago, fell in love and made
our home here in Wilmington. We have a precious one year
old daughter that we adore. Ava Grace completes our family
and we look forward to embarking on our journey as a family.
Roger & Naychi Mosquera:
I am a native Delawarean who has traveled to various parts of
the USA and several countries supporting various mission
projects. I just recently returned from the Philippines where I
lived for the past four years with my wife (Naychi). We are
both trying to relocate here in hopes of inspiring people of all
ages to explore the life of Jesus in the Bible and apply his
teachings in their day-to-day adventures.
A very warm welcome to the A very warm welcome to the A very warm welcome to the
Aldersgate Family!Aldersgate Family!Aldersgate Family!
Garish Nair & Shradda Walter:
No bio was available at the time of printing.
Share the Journey 3 September 2012
Many Options for Sunday School and Bible Study
Sunday School begins September 16. All classes held from 10 to 10:55 a.m.
Sundays for Children & Teens:
Toddler’s & Two’s in Room 116
Three’s & Four’s in Room 112
Kindergarten in Room 111
1st & 2nd Grades in Room 109
3rd Grade in Room 136
4th & 5th Grades in Room 132
Teens: Meet in the Student Ministry Center
6th to 8th Grades
9th to 12th Grades
IMPACT—5:30 to 7:30 p.m.—Fellowship, Food and Bible
Study—who could want for more???!!!
Sunday Offerings for Adults:
Alpha to Omega (Jack Smith) in Fellowship Hall—An
in-depth Bible study.
Seasons of the Spirit (Ellie Kelly) in the Library—A study
based on the lectionary readings.
Generation Go (Kathy Boardman) in 236—Young Adults will
begin a new Bible Study by Rev. Adam Hamilton entitled
“Making Love Last a Lifetime” aims to help couples grow in
their relationship and prepares singles for successful
relationships in the future.
Connections (Henry Daum) in Room 122—Various video-
driven courses aimed at group discussion.
Faith Journey (Sarah Ogilby) in Room 237—Video
curriculum “That the World May Know”. Travel through
Israel and Egypt as Jesus did.
Christian Fellowship (Jonnie Holzman & Susan Mammele)
in Room 137—Fellowship and study for persons with
disabilities.
Weekday Bible Study Offerings:
Tuesdays—Beginning September 18 unless otherwise noted:
Companions in Christ—The Way of Grace (Ann Ashmore)
6:30 to 8:30 in Room 237—9-week study that explores the
Gospel of John and how divine grace is at work in our lives
today, just as it was in the lives of Biblical characters 2000
years ago. Participants will explore the central stories of
Joh, focusing on people who discovered God’s grace
through their encounters with Jesus. The Way of Grace is a
transforming interaction with the events and characters, a
chance to identify with what God provided; a provision
these characters could never have achieved themselves.
Our Father’s World—Book Discussion (Lorraine Fleming)
Begins October 2—1:15 to 2:30 p.m. in room 236. Global
warming, species on the edge of extinction, deforestation,
dwindling resources… the earth is in trouble. How should
Christians respond to the environmental crisis? Practical
and passionate, author Edward R. Brown provides a “Godly
and green” model for “environmental missions”.
Wednesdays—Beginning September 19:
Sisters—Bible Study for Women (Judy Morton)
6 to 7:30 p.m. in room 236—Women of all ages meet for a
time of Bible study, prayer and fellowship. Provides an op-
portunity to encourage and support one another as we
each strive to become the woman God wants us to be.
Beginnings—An Introduction to the Christian Faith
(Kitty Lugar) 12-weeks from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in room 237—
This program provides a spiritual journey for seekers, new
believers and long-time Christians who want to explore the
basics of Christianity in a relaxed, nurturing environment.
Praying to Make a Difference (Sarah Ogilby) 8-weeks from
7:45 to 8:45 p.m. in room 237—A practical guide for a
powerful prayer life. This course is for those just learning to
pray or for those who want to improve their prayer life.
Disciple Short-term Bible Study—Invitation to Psalms
(Rev. Karen Moore) 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in room 237—10-
weeks to make a deeper connection to the world of Psalms
so that these well-known scriptures can help give you a
voice to all aspects of our human experience—joy, faith,
uncertainty and sorrow.
Thursdays—Beginning September 20:
Disciple Short-term Bible Study—Invitation to Psalms
(Sarah Ogilby) 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in room 237—10-weeks to
make a deeper connection to the world of Psalms so that
these well-known scriptures can help give you a voice to all
aspects of our human experience—joy, faith, uncertainty
and sorrow.
(Many Options Continued on page 4)
Share the Journey 4 September 2012
Aldersgate commits to providing lunch on the 16th of
each month for the hungry, needy people who drop in
to EDR. Thank you to the following groups and
individuals who have served or will soon serve as the
hands and feet of Jesus:
September—Saturday Men’s Fellowship
October—Kate Downham & Fleecie Dahl (UMW)
If you would like to serve at EDR this year, only
December, a Sunday, is open. Contact Don or Linda
Moore to sign up for December or any month next
year. [email protected] or 610-558-6817.
The Me I Want to Be—Becoming God’s best version of You
(Rev. Don Godwin) 5-weeks (Thursdays) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in
room 122—If God has a perfect vision for your life, why does spiritual
growth seem so difficult? Pastor and author John Ortberg has some
intriguing answers to that question and has organized his thoughts
and God’s words into a straightforward and timely guide for living
your best life.
(Many Options Continued from page 3)
You can sign-up for Sunday School Classes:
In the HUB
At the Information Desk
Email Sarah Ogilby ([email protected])
Promotional activities at fellowship
On the website (www.aldersgatede.org)
Saluted Bishop Ernest S. Lyght, Bishop Marcus Matthews, Bishop F. Herbert Skeete and Bishop Felton May for their support of Africa University.
Approved a motion to study the processes by which conferences nominate and endorse candidates for bishop with a possibility of creating a unified process across conferences.
Referred to the NEJ College of Bishops a petition seeking to replace the jurisdictional conferences with the Central Conference structure in order that they form a task force.
Adopted invitation to Eastern Pennsylvania Conference to host the 2016 NEJ Conference.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions about this conference or any other United Methodist happenings.
God Bless!! Pastor Chris
(Dear Friends… Continued from page 1)
Emmaus is open to members of any Christian
denomination and is designed for the development of
Christian leaders who:
have a desire to strengthen their spiritual lives
may have unanswered questions about their faith
understand that being a Christian involves responsibility
are willing to dedicate their everyday lives to God in an on-going manner
What Happens on the Walk to Emmaus?
You will enjoy three days of singing, learning, laughing,
worshipping, reflecting, and praying in small
groups. You will discover how grace is real in your life,
how you live a life of grace, and bring grace to others.
There is an opportunity to participate in the daily
celebration of Holy Communion; while understanding
more fully the body of Christ.
You will experience God's grace through the prayers
and acts of anonymous service offered by the Emmaus
community and will leave with an experience of
Christian love in action that will equip you for new
levels of grace-filled service and leadership!
The Aldersgate Emmaus Community would be honored to sponsor
you for an Emmaus Walk so that you too can experience the
blessings of grace that the weekend brings. The walks are held once
in the spring and once in the fall each year.
If you are interested in learning more about attending a Walk to
Emmaus weekend, please email Sarah Ogilby ([email protected])
Share the Journey 5 September 2012
Greetings from the Children & Youth Music Leadership Team!
We are gearing up for another exciting year. As you probably know, we have three (3) choirs that span the ages from our youngest children to our Junior and Senior High School youth. The three choirs are:
The Children’s Choir (Grades PreK – 1st) practices on Sundays from 11 to 11:30 a.m. in the Rainbow Room. The Children’s Choir will have several opportunities to sing in the church service during the year including World Communion Sunday, Christmas Eve Family Service, Easter and Mother’s Day.
Directors: Molly Atwater [email protected] Rachel West [email protected]
The Junior Choir (Grades 2nd – 6th) will practice on Sundays from
11 to 11:45 a.m. in the Music Center. The Junior Choir will sing
regularly in the worship services, as well as in the Christmas Eve
Service, Mother’s Day, etc.
Director: Diane Shea (302) 762-0388 or [email protected]
Vocal Impact (Grades 7th – 12th) will practice on Sundays from 11 to 11:45 a.m. in the Student Ministry Center. Vocal Impact will sing regularly in worship, as well as in the Christmas Eve Service, Mother’s Day, etc.
Vocal Impact Directors: Janet & Peter Atwater (610) 388-2120 or [email protected]
All three (3) choirs will have a registration, kick-off and first rehearsal on Sunday, September 16th at 11 a.m. in the Rainbow Room.
ALL CHILDREN AND YOUTH ARE WELCOME, NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!
Auditions for our annual Aldersgate Youth Players production will be in late November/early December. Rehearsals will begin the weekend of January 6, 2013. Performances will be in early March, 2013. More details to follow!
Contributions, What’s Your Pleasure?
Supporting the church financially is one important aspect of Christian life. When we join the United Methodist Church, we agree to support the church through our prayers, our presence, our gifts, our service and our witness. Last year we signed Covenant Cards that have remained sealed throughout the year and will be returned to you this fall. We acknowledge that we are only “pass-through accounts”, that all we have is from God and what you give is between you and the Lord.
That said, there are several different ways that our (financial) gifts can be given to Aldersgate.
By putting an envelope in the plate each week or month or mailing it to the church.
By signing up for a draft from an account of your choosing, which results in the amount of your agreed donation being automatically withdrawn from your account on regular intervals—on the 1st and / or 15th of each month or one-time each quarter. You can find a form for this at the top of the stairs on the parking lot side of the building or on the website www.aldersgatede.org—get-connected/send-a-gift-or-payment— and download the Electronic Contribution Form.
By visiting the website www.aldersgate.org—get-connected/send-a-gift-or-payment and using a debit or credit card to make your donation. This option is recommended only if you are in control of your credit card spending and pay the balance in full each month.
By donating appreciated stock. This is a great way to give to your church and at the same time avoid paying capital gains tax on the appreciated value.
If you would like to discuss this further, please contact Royal Lowthert ([email protected]) or John Prince ([email protected]) or by calling the church office at 302-478-2575. If you would like to discuss giving with Pastor Chris, please call the church office 302-478-2575.
2 Corinthians 9:7 (New International Version) Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Jesus told us that where our treasure is our heart would be. He urged us to actively work to store our treasure in heaven rather than earth because treasure on earth can be destroyed, whereas treasure in heaven cannot. (Matthew 6:20-21)
Share the Journey 6 September 2012
Nicaragua Mission Trip Opportunity December 28, 2012 through January 5 or 6, 2013
Submitted by Carolyn Fleckenstein
Nicaragua for New Year's! Cost: Approximately $1,500 per person, to be collected over the next few months and impacted most by airfare.
Location: El Ayudante in Leon, Nicaragua; a center that works to stabilize and enrich struggling families in Leon.
Possible projects include: Working with children (Vacation Bible School type activities, crafts, fellowship), encouraging parents, light construction, possibly teacher or pastor training depending on the skills of the group members, other projects based on the skills of the group members
Deposit of $200 to secure your place on the team is due NOW. Make sure that you have a Passport that is valid for at least 6 months after our departure date.
The group will meet a few times as a team to plan and get to know each other. There will be a mini-retreat in October, and we would like to have as much of the team present as possible. The tentative pre-trip timeline is:
Sunday, August 12 at 3 p.m. (already past) - Team Meeting at St. Paul's UMC (406 Main St., Odessa, DE 19730) $200 due.
Saturday, September 22 - Team Meeting, next $300 due.
October 19-20 - Team Mini-Retreat at Pecometh. Next $500 due.
November Meeting - TBD
May be able to Skype and/or Facetime if unable to attend meetings.
Checks can be sent made out to and sent to:
Camp Pecometh ATTENTION MEGAN SHITAMA 136 Bookers Wharf Road, Centreville MD 21617
[Please make sure you put notation that this is for NICARAGUA MISSION TRIP 2012].
Tentative Trip Overview:
Friday, December 28 - Meet at Departure Airport Hotel (TBD)
Saturday, December 29 - Fly to Managua early AM; arrive in Nicaragua and travel to El Ayudante in Leon. Orientation and possible mission in the afternoon.
Sunday, December 30 - Worship and mission at local church in the morning; possible sight-seeing in the afternoon.
Monday, December 31 - Site Work, New Year's Celebration in the evening!
Tuesday, January 1 - Site Work (Usually on Tuesday a local fair trade group visits with fair trade coffee, jewelry and other gift items)
Wednesday, January 2 - Site Work in the AM, Dinner at the Beach in the PM!
Thursday, January 3 - Site Work
Friday, January 4 - Travel to Managua (the capital) for cultural education and tourism (and shopping).
Saturday, January 5 - Possibly more touring, fly home from Managua either late Saturday or early Sunday.
There are ONLY 4 spaces available for this mission trip as of August 20. Our own Carolyn Fleckenstein and Candice Kilson are going on this trip!
Share the Journey 7 September 2012
Hot Time—Summer in the Sanctuary by Royal Lowthert, Business Manager
I have been asked to explain why the “coolness factor” in the Sanctuary varies, so I’ll give it my best shot. Unlike you’re Air Conditioners at home, the cooling in the Sanctuary is done by chilling water
and running it through coils which have air blown over them to cool the air as it enters the Sanctuary. Now, wasn’t that simple! NOT!!
1. The water is chilled by running up to four REALLY BIG compres-sors (240 volts, 3 phase AC) and it takes several hours to get the water temperature low enough to be effective.
2. It takes three REALLY BIG air handlers (fans) to blow the air over the coils once they get cold and the fans won’t come on until a sensor says the water is cold enough to be effective.
3. Once fans start blowing air into the Sanctuary it takes many hours to pull the room air through the vents that are located at the rear of the church up to the fans that are situated behind the rear wall and above the sculpture and then back out again.
4. This process happens over and over (recirculation) until the air coming out of the supply vents (located above the ledges on the side walls) feels cool.
5. The really big compressors and fans run constantly during the cooling period. The thermostats on the rear wall control how much of the cool water runs through the coils. If we reach the desired temperature some of the water is diverted (bypassed) away from the coils in order to control the temperature.
6. The complex system only works as designed if all systems are in good working condition. If one of the compressors fails and we have less than maximum cooling capacity. Unfortunately, there are no bells or whistles to tell us a compressor stopped working.
Keep in mind that our cooling system is probably older than the median age of our congregation, which was installed when the current sanctuary was built in 1964! We work hard to keep it in good shape because replacing the system would run between $100,000 and $200,000!
After twenty years of experimenting I have learned that when the outside temperature is predicted to be 90 degrees or above it can take up to eight hours to cool the Sanctuary to a comfortable level. For this reason the system is controlled by a seven-day timer that turns the system on Saturday night and runs until noon on Sunday. During this time all the doors to the Sanctuary are closed. Normally, we only run the cooling system on Sunday but will run it for weddings and funerals other days, as required.
Keeping ALL doors to the Sanctuary closed is key to the comfort level in the sanctuary. Open doors allow the cooled air to escape! Cool air falls and hot air rises so when the doors to the sanctuary, and there are eight of them, are left open the hot air from the hallways rushes in and the cool air escapes. This is proven when the air is on and the Sacristy door is opened. The force of the cool air will slam the door shut. In the heat of summer we need to come up with creative ways to show our welcoming spirit besides having the front doors (Rt. 202) and the doors to the Narthex open,
otherwise, we are uncomfortable in the Sanctuary and the air that we’ve paid to cool rushes out! According to our HVAC service company the electricity cost of running the Sanctuary system for 8 hours during the week (peak demand) is approximately $550.
I know that our ushers work hard to keep the narthex area doors closed as much as possible but we need the help of all who participate in worship by closing doors behind them. There are four doors in the narthex, two along the side of the nave facing the courtyard, which gets full sun in summer and can be very warm, one that provides access to the chancel area and one to the Sacristy. Our old slogan of open hearts, open minds, open doors needs to be modified somewhat during the cooling season.
This same HVAC system also tries to cool the Narthex and the Auditorium.
I hope that didn’t confuse you too much and that you have a better understanding of why we cannot run the AC with instant results.
In case you are wondering, it is much cheaper to heat the Sanctuary. Our water heaters run all winter long and provide hot water to the entire building. The heaters are designed to maintain a certain water temperature and when that is achieved the heaters turn off. The Sanctuary has two sets of thermostats. One is in effect when the timer, the one used to control the A/C, comes on and the other is a night thermostat that does not allow the room go below 60 degrees in the winter. For that reason it takes less time to heat the Sanctuary.
Mental Health Resource Center In Library By Anne Murray, Volunteer Parish Nurse
The Caring Community ministry has established a small mental health resource center in the church library. The resource center is part of this ministry’s efforts to care for members, friends and families living with mental illness through support and education. Some items can be taken and others can be checked out, just leave card on shelf or put one in mailbox 12 in the HUB. There are resources on a variety of mental health topics.
There is also information about spiritually-centered counseling services in our area in the Resource Center.
All persons are welcome to participate the Caring Community Ministry. For more information, please contact Anne Murray, Volunteer Parish Nurse or Rev. Karen Moore at 478-2575.
Aldersgate UMC is a designated
“Caring Community” intentionally
ministering to persons with mental
illness and their families.
Share the Journey 8 September 2012
Each month, milestone anniversaries are listed as well as all those over 50 years. While we can all benefit from knowing that marriages truly can exist for more than 5 decades, we want to recognize those milestone years (i.e. 5, 10 15, 20 ) for all. Congratulations to you all! Tom & Rebecca Parmenter September 1 25 years
Bob & Eileen Emrich September 4 59 years
Scott & Karen Graham September 7 10 years
Al & Betty Moore September 7 54 years
Clair & Evelyn Frank September 11 58 years
Walter & Karen Austin September 12 25 years
Al & Pat Koenig September 13 54 years
Dan & Phyllis Eisenhardt September 15 61 years
Kelly Eschbach & Bill Lundstrom September 15 5 years
Nelson & Loura Lea Meredith September 17 52 years
Craig & Penny Husted September 18 30 years
Roy & Julia Meredith September 26 59 years
Eric & Cathy Goodman September 27 15 years
Gus & Anne Teipelke September 29 50 years
If you are not sure we have your anniversary and would like it to be included in the future, please contact Betty Moore (302-478-2575 ext. 117) or [email protected]. All additions or corrections are gratefully accepted to keep our records up to date.
Elizabeth C.Jones July 14
Karla M. Klumpp July 27
Ruth M. Webb August 15
Richard H. Hurst August 18
Ava Grace Kartanos, daughter of
Peter & Janet Kartanos
on Sunday, August 26.
Evelyn Grace Moyer, daughter of
Don & Amanda Moyer,
granddaughter of Bert & Betsy
Diemer on Sunday, August 26.
Aldersgate’s UMW News
On Friday, July 20, the
following Aldersgate women
attended the UMW School of
Christian Mission held at
Wesley College in Dover:
Margaret David, Barbara
Buckley, Judy Morton, Jessica Johnston, Carol Morell, Sandy
Anderson and Jill McKeown. The school presented a special
Friday only program that gave the attendees an overview of
the studies from the Wednesday through Saturday sessions.
The School of Christian Mission (SOCM) provides the
opportunity to study current issues impacting society based
on recent mission topics. SOCM is open to members and
non-members of the United Methodist Women. Classes
cover three topics and this year the topics were:
Spiritual Growth -Immigration and the Bible
Social Issue - Poverty
Geographic - Haiti
The first two were part of the Friday program. The
knowledge gained will be shared at Aldersgate Church
through Circle meetings and other UMW activities. The study
books for each topic are available on the UMW bookshelf in
the church library.
Our UMW attendees also had the opportunity to join in
worship and fellowship with other women from the Peninsula
-Delaware Conference. Our seven ladies had a wonderful
experience and encourage other Aldersgate women to
consider attending the program next summer.
We don't serve God to gain His acceptance; we
are accepted so we serve God.
We don't follow Him in order to be loved; we are
loved so we follow Him.
Neil Anderson Devotional—August 1, 2012
Share the Journey 9 September 2012
Bishop Peggy Johnson reappointed to Easter PA and Peninsula-Delaware Conferences
Grace and peace to you from the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to tell you how happy I am that I have been reappointed to serve as the bishop of the Eastern PA Conference and the Peninsula-Delaware Conference for another four years. This was decided during the week of July 16-20 at the Northeastern Jurisdiction Conference of the United Methodist Church that was held in Charleston, WV. My thanks to the area delegates who faithfully attended this conference and represented us well. Dr. Mary White, Rev. Jim Todd, Rev. Dr. Sandra Steiner Ball, Mr. Demetrio Beach were the heads of the delegations for our 2012 conference season. Rev. Michele Wright Bartlow, Ms. Judy Ehninger, Rev. Derrick Porter and Mr. Kevin Goodwin represented us at the NEJ Episcopacy Committee, where the bishop assignments were made. I have been blessed to serve this area with so many great servants of God!
We are thrilled and joyful over the election of Rev. Dr. Sandra Steiner Ball to the Episcopacy and pray for her and her family as she moves to the West Virginia Annual Conference on September 1. Her many gifts for ministry and her leadership skills will be a wonderful asset to the United Methodist Church there.
I am looking forward to serving this area for another 4 years and will strive to build on the relationships and the programs that have already been developed. I have enjoyed getting to know you and visiting your wonderful ministries. I have deep respect for the many faithful pastors and lay people who give sacrificially of their time and talent and treasure to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in their communities. I am encouraged by the growth in our diversity and spirituality.
I am happy to receive any suggestions for improvements and any other ideas you have for me as I begin a new quadrennium with you. I see our work together as a partnership and I value your input and support. My email address is [email protected] and the office number is 610-666-1442 or 800-828-0933.
So what is my personal goal for this area for the next 4 years? Body work! I shared with the delegates and friends of the area who gathered in Charleston on Friday morning that I hope we will become more and more like magpies and less like robins in the years to come. In the book: The Power of Positive Deviance by Pascale, Sternin and Sternin they describe the characteristics of these two birds. Robins are territorial, live in isolation and vocalize in order to maintain their territory. Magpies, on the other hand, work together, nesting in large groups on cold nights, teaming up to drive out predators, assisting young parent birds with the nestlings and using their collective strength to lift garbage can lids. As a result these birds are able to make considerable progress in their ability to thrive and grow as a species. Let’s be more like magpies in our conference life as we work together in unity with one another!
We, as the Body of Christ, can achieve great things this way. The connectional system of our denomination has shown us again and again the power of collaboration. New people are reached for Christ, the needs of the poor are met, killer diseases are alleviated, new churches and faith communities are developed. It only works when we work as a unified body. This is what the Apostle Paul was talking about when he said: “Speak the truth in love and grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knitted together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part if working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.” (Ephesians 4:15-16)
Finally I ask for your prayers and I covenant to continue to pray for you. May God bless you richly in the years to come and thank you for the awesome privilege that my husband Michael and I have to be here among you.
Bishop Peggy A. Johnson
We Weep and Pray, Grow and Learn by Charles R. Swindoll
Man's steps are ordained by the LORD, how then can man understand his way? Proverbs 20:24
Tests are never wasted. God never says, "Oops, made a mistake on that one. I shouldn't have given you that. I meant that for Frank. Sorry, Bob." It's as if the Lord has our name on specific trials. They are specifically designed for us, arranged with our weaknesses and our immaturity in mind. He bears down and doesn't let up. And we groan and we hurt and we weep and we pray and we grow and we learn. Through it all we learn to depend upon His Word. The common response to trials is resistance, if not outright resentment. How much better that we open the doors of our hearts and welcome the God-ordained trials as honored guests for the good they do in our lives.
Share the Journey 10 September 2012
Notes from The Music Guy
Jeffrey Manns
Director of Music Ministry
(302) 478-2575 ext. 120
Fall Music Ministry Schedule Resumes
The Music Ministry will be in full swing beginning Wednesday, September 5. Anyone who is interested in joining this dynamic and varied ministry is invited to contact Jeffrey Manns, Director of Music, for more information, by emailing [email protected] or by calling the church office at (302) 478-2575.
Aldersgate United Methodist Church Music Ministry Overview:
Music Ministry Mission Statement
The Music Ministry at Aldersgate UMC focuses on Christ-centered music, fellowship, friendship, and most importantly, the sharing of the gospel of Christ through music in song, worship, and special events. It is our hope that everyone who participates in the Music Ministry is challenged to grow in Christ and experiences God’s unconditional love through the many gifts of the arts. Whether you are a professional musician, or a music lover, we have a place for you at Aldersgate!
Chancel Choir
The Chancel Choir has a rich heritage and is a vibrant part of the 11 a.m. Traditional Worship Service. The ensemble rehearses every Wednesday from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Music Center and presents Anthems and Special Music every week in service. The choir performs a variety of styles throughout the year that includes classical, traditional, modern, spirituals and gospel. The Chancel Choir presents two annual concerts (Christmas / Spring) and is always looking for opportunities to reach out into the community. Recent performances by the Chancel Choir include Handel’s Messiah, the K. Lee Scott Requiem, Vivaldi Gloria, Mozart Coronation Mass, and Fauré Requiem, each with orchestra. No audition required, new members are always welcome!
Gateway Ringers
The Gateway Ringers is Aldersgate’s primary Bell Choir, and participates in worship and special presentations throughout the year. The ensemble rehearses every Thursday from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Bell Choir Room, which is part of the Music Center. This dynamic musical ensemble is comprised of individuals with a love of traditional handbell music, as well as non-traditional and contemporary music. No experience is required, although some background in reading music is necessary.
The Journey Band
Integral to the 9 a.m. contemporary worship service, this group explores music from today’s Christian artists like Jared Anderson, Chris Tomlin, and MercyMe, to traditional hymns and praise songs, and is comprised of musicians from within the church that are led by the Spirit, open to new and exciting forms of worship, and have a passion for Christ. The Journey rehearses every Thursday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Auditorium. For more information, or to schedule an audition, please contact Jeffrey Manns, Director of Music, at [email protected] or by calling the church office at (302) 478-2575.
Aldersgate Brass Ensemble
The Aldersgate Brass Ensemble is a volunteer group of experienced brass musicians. The ensemble rehearses every Wednesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary, and provides special music for worship services throughout the year. For more information, please contact Bert Diemer, Brass Coordinator, at [email protected] or by calling the church office at (302) 478-2575.
One Sunday in a Midwest City, a young child was "acting up" during the morning worship hour.
The parents did their best to maintain some sense of order in the pew but were losing the battle.
Finally, the father picked the little fellow up and walked sternly up the aisle on his way out.
Just before reaching the safety of the foyer,
The little one called loudly to the congregation,
"Pray for me! Pray for me!"
Share the Journey 11 September 2012
Kick-off for Fall Meeting Tuesday, September 18 at noon
Fellowship Hall
As members of Aldersgate Church, you are the brand new owners of an adult retreat center
constructed at Camp Pecometh!!
Now, you are invited to come and hear the story about this new center and the exciting things that are happening there. The Rev. Jack Shitama, Director of Camp Pecometh, will be the guest speaker for this “kick-off” meeting for the fall season.
During this meeting several members of Aldersgate Church who provided leadership for this new retreat center will be recognized. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear more about the adult retreat center story and to thank some of the people in Aldersgate who helped to make it happen.
UMM of Aldersgate meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month from September through May and guests are always welcome. If you are not on the “contact list” please sign up in the HUB and indicate your choice of sub (turkey, roast beef or ham).
Calling All Men !! Saturday, September 8
8 to 10:30 a.m. Student Ministry Center
The Men’s Fellowship Group will meet for its first fall monthly breakfast which will be prepared by one of our Top Chefs.
We meet the second Saturday of each month from September to May. This small group focuses on providing a meaningful Christian Men’s ministry focusing on devotions, fellowship, and service to the church community.
This year we will be studying Andy Stanley’s series entitled “Life Apps”. This study Is a video series that requires no advance preparation as all study will be done at breakfast. Please consider joining us. If you have any questions, please contact Jim Rindfuss at 302-478-7969 or [email protected].
It’s the Law! by Royal Lowthert, Business Manager
Donations to a church that is qualified by the IRS (as a 501 C 3 non-profit charity) are normally tax deductible. Often property of
any kind can also be tax deductible, however conditions exist. If the value of the property is greater than $500 but less than $5,000 the donor must fill out Section A of IRS Form 8283 (Noncash Charitable Contributions) and attach it to their tax return. Gifts greater than $5,000 (other than publicly traded stock) must have Section B of IRS Form 8283 completed. This section must be signed by a qualified appraiser as well as by the charity receiving the donation. Different rules apply when donating a vehicle. Form 8283 can be obtained at www.irs.gov.
Check any form you use as proof of a donation to a church. The IRS states that the form must be “contemporaneous”, meaning it should be dated within a reasonable amount of time of the current tax year. The receipt should contain words declaring that “no goods or services were re-ceived” (other than intangible religious benefit) in exchange for this gift, or something similar. You should request a letter from the church acknowledging receipt of the noncash donation when given to the church. The church is not a qualified appraiser so we will not attempt to value the gift, be we can state its description and condition.
Flute Players Gathering!
The Music Ministry at Aldersgate is looking to expand and is in search of all those men and women in our congregation who currently play the flute, or have in the past played and are interested in picking it back up. Dust off that old Jupiter and join us as we begin a Flute Ensemble. From beginner to advanced, this ensemble will meet regularly to rehearse, have fun, and enjoy musical fellowship with one another.
Kathie Foss will be coordinating this ensemble and rehearsal date and time will be set according to the needs of those participating. All who are interested in participating are encouraged to contact Kathie by email at: [email protected].
Psalm 62:5-8 (New King James Version)
5 My soul, wait silently for God alone,
For my expectation is from Him.
6 He only is my rock and my salvation;
He is my defense;
I shall not be moved.
7 In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength,
And my refuge, is in God.
8 Trust in Him at all times, you people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us. Selah
(Two meanings of Selah…forever and valued)
Send articles and photos to [email protected] by
September 16! Contact Mary Jane Prince for questions or
comments:
or 302-478-6268.
Share the Journey 12 September 2012
Aldersgate Preschool
On Wednesday, September 5 from 6 to 7 p.m. we invite all preschool families to attend the Water Ice Social on the playground and a visit of the preschool classrooms. The 18 month, 2's, 3's and PreKindergarten classes begin on September 10th. We have waiting lists for 2's, 3's and PreKindergarten classes and still have a few openings in our program for 18 month to 23 month old children. We are welcoming back the most dedicated teachers this fall:
18 month teachers: Bridget Young & Millie Lightcap
2's teachers: Wanda Woerner & Anne Waddell
3's teachers: Julie Lapinski & Erin Greenberg
PreKindergarten teachers: Julia Michael & Melanie Popernechny.
Pastor Chris Pennington and Pastor Don Godwin will graciously lead Preschool Chapel a few times each month. Please keep the preschool in prayer as we continue to nurture families in our community.
3rd Graders will be receiving bibles at the 10 a.m. service on Sunday, September 9. Please contact Sharon if you have a 3rd grader in your family and have not already been notified.
Sunday School begins on September 16 at 10 a.m. for all ages! We require two Safe Sanctuary Teachers for every children's class and hope to have 3 individuals from which to pull each week. Please consider substituting and lending a helping hand for this important children’s ministry.
Family & Friends- Potluck, Games and Movie—Friday, September 28 & Friday, November 16 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the auditorium. Gather for fun, food and entertainment with friends and family. Bring a dish to share and be prepared to play some games and/or settle in to watch the family-friendly movie "The Lorax".
Hayride and Bonfire—Sunday, October 14 at 5 p.m. Two hayride wagons will leave Bellevue State Park followed by a bonfire with hot dogs, beverages and s'mores. RSVP required, $20 per family. Leave a check in my mailbox #7 with the number of attendees by September 30. If there is enough interest, we may schedule another wagon at 6 p.m.
Pizza, Pajamas and Movie Night—Friday, October 26 & Friday, November 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Student Ministry Center. All families are invited to pizza, beverages and snacks followed by a family-friendly movie at 6:30 p.m. Children ages 1 to 13 are encouraged to wear pajamas and bring a blanket or pillow to sit on. Suggested donation is $10 per family. RSVP to Sharon by the day before.
Christmas Caroling—Sunday, December 16 at 6 p.m. Everyone meet in the Music Center for song books, flashlights and to drop-off cookies to share later. We plan to walk around the neighborhood, weather permitting, and return together for fellowship, hot chocolate, cider and cookies.
Sharon Jennelly, Director of Children’s
Ministry & Aldersgate Preschool
302.478.2575 ext.118
Harvest Food Collection – Sunday, October 7 By Judy Morton, Go Team, Local Ministry Lead
Believe it to not, it is once again time to join with our brothers and sisters at St. Mary Magdalen for our annual food drive. Bags will be distributed after all worship services on Sunday, September 30. Please
take a bag home and bring it back to church on October 7 filled with non-perishable food items. Volunteers and trucks will be positioned at both the Parking Lot and Fairfax Entrances to receive your donations.
The food collected will be distributed to various food pantries in the Wilmington area including, Brandywine Community United Methodist Church, Neighborhood House, St. Helena’s, St. Patrick’s and Ezion-Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church Food Pantries. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to help provide emergency food to families in need throughout New Castle County and to “. . . live out Christ’s teachings as we meet the needs of our local . . . community!”
Some examples of food items to fill your bag with are: pasta, rice, tuna/hamburger helper, instant macaroni and cheese, canned goods (vegetables, fruits, applesauce, soup beer stew, tuna, spam, corned beef, chicken and dumplings, hot dogs, bake beans, salmon, all tomato products), peanut butter, jelly, cereal, dry milk, Bisquick, grits, oatmeal, condiments and sauces, cookies, crackers, pop-tarts, paper goods.
Please join with your “Go” Team in this very important mission project!!
Share the Journey 13 September 2012
As Nick Jennelly enters a new chapter in his life as a student at the U of D please welcome Ryan Smith as our new weekend custodian. Ryan is the son of Jane Smith
and is currently a 2nd year law student at Drexel University. Welcome Ryan!
More UMW
News
Do you know what UMW Circles are? Or what they do? Or
what UMW is all about? That all women…all ages…are
welcome? We hope to answer these questions and more on
Sunday, September 16 – UMW Sunday! You will see us as
greeters, ushers, liturgists and hosts for Fellowship at all
services. There will be a display table in the Auditorium with
UMW information and sign-up sheets for our Fall Potluck
Dinner (see information below), pre-orders for the Fall Pecan
Sale, or just learn more about our circles. The message for the
services will be provided by Pastor Chris or Pastor Don.
Fall Potluck Dinner—Come and learn first-hand about the
progress of mission work in Haiti. Please join us on Monday,
September 24 at 6 p.m. in the Auditorium and hear Marie Van
Der Wall, Conference Secretary of Global Ministries, tell about
her mission trips to Haiti and see slides of the progress being
made. Please bring a main dish, side dish or salad to serve 8.
Beverages and dessert will be provided. A free-will love
offering will be taken to aid mission work in Haiti. Please
sign-up for the dinner with your Circle Leader or at the UMW
display table on UMW Sunday.
Annual Pecan Sale—UMW will once again be selling Whaley
fresh picked pecans in one pound bags of halves and pieces.
The prices have not yet been set as the pecans have not yet
been harvested. We will know by October what this year’s
prices will be. Please place your orders with UMW members,
Circle Leaders, or on the order sheet at the UMW display table
on UMW Sunday. The pecans are always fresh and delicious.
What Do Stephen Ministers Do? By Carol Morell, Stephen Ministry Co-Leader
Stephen Ministers are members of our congregation who have gone through 50 hours of training to provide confidential one-to-one Christian care to people who are facing a crisis or simply going through a difficult time. Your Stephen Minister will meet with you once a week for around an hour to listen to you, care for you, pray with and for you, and provide emotional and spiritual encouragement; always in the strictest confidence. Men are matched with male Stephen Ministers, women are matched with female Stephen Ministers. To find out more about how you or someone you know could be matched with a Stephen Minister, talk with Pastor Chris, Pastor Don, or our Stephen Ministry Leaders, Carol Morell or Deb Parrish. You can also send an email to [email protected].
Calling Small Groups, Sunday School Classes & Families
The calendar for coffee hour volunteers still has gaps in it through the fall and the remainder of the year. We need your spirit of Christian service in order to welcome visitors and provide a hospitable environment to our parishioners.
If you are willing and able to set up and/or clean up coffee hour for the 8:45/9 a.m. or 11 a.m. service on September 25 or October 7, please contact Heather Burket at [email protected] for details or inquiries.
New volunteers are welcome and encouraged. Training is available and no purchase or baking is necessary. Coffee hour will not be held during services where volunteers cannot be secured.
Special thanks to Roger Mosquera, Stephen Ministers, United Methodist Women (Hannah Circle/Multi-tasking Moms), and the Emmaus Team for volunteering to serve coffee hour during September!
Sincerely,
Heather Burket and Jennifer Xenakes,
The Grow Team Fellowship Committee Co-chairs
Please consider dedicating a bible to a child this fall. We provide the NIV Adventure Bible to our 3rd graders at a cost of $17.97 per Bible. If you are interested, please contact [email protected] or 478-2575, Ext. 118 for details.
Share the Journey 14 September 2012
Going Green By Royal Lowthert
There are many ways that we recycle at Aldersgate and ways that you can support the effort by making small changes.
1) Drop your used printer cartridges into the receptacle located in the hallway near the HUB. The recycled cartridges generate credit at Staples that can be used to defray church office expenses.
2) Drop your “Paper Only” in the green and yellow Abitibi bins located on the church property. Abitibi is a source of income. Keep up the good work!
3) Recycle all other materials such as aluminum, plastic and
cardboard through our community trash company, Brandywine Waste. Brandywine Waste charges $20 monthly to remove the other recyclable materials.
4) Sign up to receive the Messenger electronically via email. You can do this in the HUB, at the Information Booth or on the website (www.aldersgatede.org). Receiving the Messenger via email costs nothing! The Messenger is also available on the website on the home page as “News” and in the information areas at church.
If you’re receiving the Messenger now and wish to be dropped from the distribution, paper or electronic, please contact the
church office at 302-478-2575 or send an email to [email protected].
“Ongoing green” activity: If you received your financial statement in paper form and you have an email account, please contact Betty Moore ([email protected] or 302-478-2575 ext. 117) to have it added to the record. This saves substantial money over mailing statements over the course of a year.
Gifts of the Spirit: Are you using yours?
Galatians 5:22
love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
generosity, faithfulness,
gentleness, self-control
Aldersgate’s Mission:
With God’s Help and
Through Prayer,
we will:
Going Green with Abitibi–Remember to bring your paper recycling to church and place it in the green and yellow receptacles (one is located near the playground on the Panera side and one is located in the front parking lot near the auto repair. Encourage your neighbors to help us in our Green effort. Aldersgate is paid for all paper recyclables that are collected each month and we are reducing the amount of recyclable material that goes to landfills!
Six-year old Angie , and her four-year old brother, Joel , were sitting together in church.
Joel giggled, sang and talked out loud. Finally, his big sister had had enough.
"You're not supposed to talk out loud in church."
"Why? Who's going to stop me?" Joel asked.
Angie pointed to the back of the church and said,
"See those two men standing by the door?
They're hushers."
Share the Journey 15 September 2012
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
598
Wilmington, DE
19850
Aldersgate United Methodist Church—Come as you are and be transformed by the love of Christ!
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
FAMILY FUN DAY
Saturday, September 22
1 to 5 p.m.
Aldersgate United Methodist
Church 2313 Concord Pike
302-478-2575
www.aldersgatede.org