Monthly Community Suppers The 15th of every month

Free to All

5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Call/email for reservations

A monthly publication of the Somers Congregational Church, UCC September, 2012 Gathered in Somers, Connecticut, March 15, AD 1727 Volume 285 Number 9

The Reverend Dr. Barry Cass, Pastor

Church Email Addresses:

Barry Cass - bcass@somerscongregational.org Carly Sanborn - somerscong@somerscongregational.org Jacqueline Nappi - jnappi@somerscongregational.org Liz Scanlon - lscanlon@somerscongregational.org Barbara Anderson - careroom@somerscongregational.org

Website:

www.somerscongregational.org

The First Sunday of each month is

Name Badge Sunday!

Be known! Wear your Name Badge.

No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here.

HOMECOMING SUNDAY

SEPTEMBER 9th

The Membership Board cordially

invites all members and friends to

enjoy an ice cream sundae

following the 10:00 service

Sunday School Registrations

begin at 9:30 am

Light refreshments and an opportunity

to meet the teachers

JMH Education Center - Rt. 190, Stafford

I collect vintage post cards. I bought one on E-Bay a couple

weeks ago and got a big surprise. The card, which has a picture

of a long-gone railroad bridge in Hancock, New Hampshire, the

town I grew up in, was sent in 1914 to my grandmother from her

mother. The message was about a visit to “Auntie’s” house and

an upcoming Grange meeting. My grandmother passed away a

number of years ago and my great grandmother died before I was

born.

The town of Hancock held its annual Old Homes Days Celebration while I was there on vacation and I

had the honor, or at least the opportunity, of being one of the people who grew up there who shared memories

midday on the common, of my experiences. I shared memories of several of the people who had an impact on

my life while I was growing up. There was a woman I worked for doing yard work when I was in the eighth

grade who made sure I had a social security card so she could contribute to the system on my behalf. There was

an elderly woman for whom I cut wood and when her eyesight failed, with whom I read scripture. There was a

teacher who encouraged a love of literature and poetry. There was a world-known socialist author who

challenged me to better thinking. There are, of course many others.

On Sunday morning Hancock’s pastor, the Rev. Judy Copeland, reminded the congregation that their

town, their achievements, their lives, are built on the lives and deeds of the generations who have gone before.

The phrase she used was that each generations stands on the shoulders of those that have gone before. That is

no less true here in Somers than it is anywhere else.

As we gear up for the fall – recognizing that this will be a fall unlike any previous fall, aware that our

continued building and restorations projects are challenging us in ways we could not have imagined – I am

aware that we are standing on the shoulders of those who have gone before. We are building on the faith and

commitment others made to this congregation and this community.

Our responsibility is heightened by the fact that what we build will stand in the center of Somers for

generations to come, just as the Meeting House lost in the fire had done. Those who went before us built for

generations yet to come, generations unseen who would find faith and meaning within the walls they carefully

constructed. Our challenge is the same. We are building a Meeting House and symbol that will stand in the

future and provide direction for those yet to come.

With all due respect to the past, we turn to the future, hoping to provide the same kind of meaning-filled

space and experience that others left for us. As they built with the best and latest techniques and materials in

1842, we will take advantage of twenty-first century knowledge and materials. It is an exciting time. I am glad

we are sharing it together.

Peace --- Barry

BOOK GROUP – September 11th

The book for September –

In the Garden of Beasts: Love, Terror, and an American Family in Hitler's

Berlin

By Erik Larson

Erik Larson has been widely acclaimed as a master of narrative non-fiction, and in

his new book, the bestselling author of Devil in the White City turns his hand to a

remarkable story set during Hitler’s rise to power.

The time is 1933, the place, Berlin, when William E. Dodd becomes America’s first ambassador to Hitler’s

Germany in a year that proved to be a turning point in history.

A mild-mannered professor from Chicago, Dodd brings along his wife, son, and flamboyant daughter, Martha.

At first Martha is entranced by the parties and pomp, and the handsome young men of the Third Reich with

their infectious enthusiasm for restoring Germany to a position of world prominence. Enamored of the “New

Germany,” she has one affair after another, including with the surprisingly honorable first chief of the Gestapo,

Rudolf Diels. But as evidence of Jewish persecution mounts, confirmed by chilling first-person testimony, her

father telegraphs his concerns to a largely indifferent State Department back home. Dodd watches with alarm as

Jews are attacked, the press is censored, and drafts of frightening new laws begin to circulate. As that first year

unfolds and the shadows deepen, the Dodd’s experience days full of excitement, intrigue, romance—and

ultimately, horror, when a climactic spasm of violence and murder reveals Hitler’s true character and ruthless

ambition.

Confirmation!

The Confirmation Class will be getting underway beginning on September

30 with a meeting for this year’s candidates for confirmation and their parents. The

meeting will be at 5:30 in Bugbee Chapel and will provide an overview of the class,

the curriculum and the expectations of candidates and families.

The Confirmation Class meets each Sunday evening from 5:30 to 7 P.M. in the

Bugbee wing of the church, with Dr. Cass and one of the Deacons. In addition to

weekly worship and class attendance, candidates for confirmation also participate in several worship services

through the year and perform community service. Although most of the candidates for confirmation are ninth

graders, the class is open to anyone in high school who has not previously been confirmed.

If you have any questions, contact Dr. Cass.

Altar Flowers for the Month of September September 2 OPEN

September 9 Altar Flowers this morning are given by The Robert August Family in loving memory of Beatrice and Orville A. Wilson September 16 OPEN September 23 Altar Flowers this morning are given by Michael Mangini in loving memory of his wife Charlotte Mangini September 30 OPEN

It is our custom that altar flowers are donated in memory of or in honor of loved ones. Arrangements can be bought or hand-done. An individual or a group of individuals can donate them.

There can be more than one bouquet on any given Sunday. If you would like to give flowers for the altar in September, please call Kate Campion (860-749-4875)

Worship at Blair Manor On the Second Tuesday of each month our church is responsible for a worship

service at Blair Manor. Led by our pastor, worship begins at 10:30 A.M. and lasts

about a half hour. We are fortunate that Anne Larson accompanies the group in

singing two hymns most months. Other members and friends of the church are more

than welcome to join us, to be a part of the service and to add voices to the singing.

If you have any questions, talk to Barry.

The next Blair Manor worship service will be Tuesday, September 11 at 10:30 A.M.

www.somerscongregational.org The church website has weekly updates on the progress of the Meeting House. They can be

viewed by going to www.somerscongregational.org/restoration. You can also like us on

Facebook to be notified when the updates are posted.

Thank you to the Caring Committee and all those who have called, visited, or sent cards. I am appreciative for all the

kindness that has been shown by everyone and the thoughtfulness truly means a lot.

~ Myrtle Pixley

Field of Flags The 6,541 flags have been at the Warren

Congregational Church in Warren Connecticut

during the past 3 weeks.

The Field of Flags is being set up at the Vernon Congregational Church on Friday, August 24. with

more than 6,579 flags. The Vernon church is 20 minutes away near the route 84 entrance. Take a

drive in the next few weeks if you have time. Our church had 2,232 flags when we started the Field of

Flags. You will see a big difference in the size of the field and the name board. Luanne Crosby, who

wrote the Field of Flags song is coming to the Vernon Church on August 26 to sing her song as part

of their dedication ceremony.

Weekly Scripture Readings for September 2012

* passage that will be Church School's prime focus for the week

**passage that will be Church School's secondary focus for the week

September 2 - Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Communion Sunday)

Song of Solomon 2:8-13 Psalm 15 James 1:17-27 Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

September 9- Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost - Homecoming

Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-12 Psalm 125 James 2:1-17 Mark 7:24-37

September 16- Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Proverbs 1:20-33 Psalm 19 James 3:1-12 Mark 8:27-38

September 23- Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Proverbs 31:10-31 Psalm 1 James 3:13;4:3, 7-8a Mark 9:30-37

September 30 - Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 Psalm 124 James 5:13-20 Mark 9:38-50

Judith A. Talbot died on Thursday, August 16, 2012. A Memorial Service was held at

Somers Funeral Home on Thursday, August 23 and the Rev. Barry Cass officiated.

Somers Congregational United Church of Christ

Free Community Supper

Saturday, September 15 5 to 6:30 P.M.

In the BUGBEE CENTER at the Church

EVERYONE is invited to share this free Community Supper and

to enjoy the fellowship and good time. The Mission Board will be

preparing a great meal for everyone’s enjoyment!

Bring your family and friends

Let us know you are coming by signing up at church, or calling or e-mailing the church office.

PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW THIS FALL

The Music and Arts Committee is sponsoring a Photography Show this

fall: "Somers Seen" will feature photographs of Somers and environs. Anyone is

welcome to enter up to four photos. Submissions will be displayed in the

refurbished church office building in the fall, exact dates to be

determined. Requirements and time for submissions will be available soon on

the church website, at the church office, and at Sunday services at the hospital,

but you can start now taking photos of our town and its beautiful natural surroundings, or you can look

through past photos for your submissions.

Pound Auction September 29 - 7 p.m. To benefit the Network Against Domestic Abuse

Please join us for some fun at the POUND AUCTION on

September 29th at 7:00 pm in the Bugbee Center. This is the time

to really use your imagination and come up with an item that will

be auctioned off to the highest bidder by our experienced

auctioneer, Rev. Cass.

The only rule is that your item must weigh ONE POUND and it must be GIFT WRAPPED. Don’t

tell anyone what is in your package. Bids are based on what the bidders think might be in your

package. A pound of peanuts, a pound of coffee, a pound of books, a pound of….. ??? Each winning

bidder will open his/her package for all to see.

Dessert and coffee will be served. This is a family event and all are welcome to attend.

The Pound Auction is sponsored by the Mission Board and all proceeds will benefit the Network Against

Domestic Abuse.

Please Join us for Homecoming Sunday

Sunday , September 9, 2012 at 10:00 am

Sunday School Registrations begin at 9:30 am, with

light refreshments and an opportunity to meet your teachers.

We will continue to meet at

Johnson Memorial Hospital Education Center located at

201 Chestnut Hill Road (Rt. 190), Stafford

Following the service, Ice Cream Sundaes will be provided by the

Membership Board

For more information, email lscanlon@somerscongregational.org

Sunday School Calendar for September

September 9 Homecoming / Sunday School

September 16 Sunday School

September 23 Sunday School

September 30 Sunday School

I am still looking for a Teacher/ Teachers for Grade 6, 7 & 8. The first Sunday of every month the 6-8

graders stay in church for communion so it would only require a planned lesson the other 3 Sundays of

each month. Also, I have purchased a new curriculum which I think will make it much easier to plan and

teach each week. Please let me know if you are interested in teaching this grade level.

Save the Date…… Vacation Bible School June 24 – 28, 2013

Kingdom Rock - Where Kids Stand Strong For God

SOMERS CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

Sunday School Registration Form 2012 / 2013

Please use one form per child

Child’s name: _____________________________________________________________

Name of Parent(s) or Guardian(s): _____________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number: ________________________________________________________

E-mail: __________________________________________________________________ (most communication will be via email)

Grade entering: _______ Age of child: _______ Date of Birth: ______________________

Allergies:_________________________________________________________________

Information regarding your child: ______________________________________________

Child’s interests: ___________________________________________________________

Please check the areas in which you are willing to volunteer.

___ Teach Sunday school

___ Substitute for Teachers

___ Thanksgiving Event Helper

___ Christmas Pageant Helper

___ Care Room Volunteer

Parent/Guardian Signature ___________________________________________________

Council Corner August 21, 2012

Inventory update. The inventory list for building contents was updated and

submitted to the insurance committee. The revised list has been sent to

committee chairs to share with their members to see if any other items have

been missed.

Items in Storage. There are still 40 or more boxes and other items in storage. We may have the

remaining items delivered all at once and store them in room 211 after the fire alarm system is

completed in the Bugbee Center.

Restoration Committee update. The fire alarm system should be finished this week and inspected by

the fire marshal. The new wall in the church office building should also be finished this week, including

the replacement of a section of the roof. Insulation should be completed this week. Unfortunately, we

will not be able to move back into the church office building in September as we had hoped. We will have

an estimated moving date for October in the next Council Corner.

Building Committee update. The Building Committee meets weekly with the Hugh Schweitzer (architect)

and Noel Petra (construction). (see article by Mark Marshall).

Organ Committee update. The contract for the organ builder has been signed and the first payment

made. The organ builders have started building our organ.

Appointments. No appointments were made in June. All committees are filled. Community Supper.

September will be sponsored by the Mission Board. October will be sponsored by the Nominating

Committee. November will be sponsored by the Deacons. Suppers will now take place in Room 116 in the

Bugbee Center.

Building Fund. The Church Council approved $920.00 for reimbursement of travel expenses for the

organ builder in June.

Preparation for Groundbreaking Celebration. Although a “workday” has not been scheduled, we do need

help in getting the grounds ready for our special day on September 23rd. If you have 15-20 minutes, can

you stop by the church and pull a few weeds? We don’t need to know who or when you are coming, just

“park and weed”.

Sunday School. Several Deacons are going to teach the 6th, 7th and 8th grade class temporarily until a

teacher can be found. There is a new curriculum that will help make planning and teaching easier and Liz

Scanlon, our CE Director has made packets of activities for each class that will help with the Bible

fundamentals the students need to know. If you are interested in teaching grades 6-8, contact Liz.

Capital Campaign. The council discussed the possible need to hire a consultant for a Capital Campaign to

raise additional money for our new church. We are looking for individuals that may be interested in

serving on a committee. If you are interested, please contact Barry or me.

Questions or Comments about the new church? If you have any questions or comments about the new

building (sanctuary, chancel, narthex, Pilgrim Hall, church kitchen) the Building Committee still wants to

hear from you as decisions are not yet final. Please send comments to: build@somerscongregational.org

You can also leave written questions/comments in the building committee mailbox in the office trailer.

Anne Kirkpatrick (abksomers@aol.com)

Somers Congregational Church

Building Committee – September 2012 Highlights

Building Committee Members: Jim Jewell, Pat Jones, John Jones, Diane Joseph (secretary), Tom Mehl, Sara

Mulvihill, Mark Marschall (Chair), Barry Cass ex-officio, Anne Kirkpatrick ex-officio. Donna Hanks will work

with us as Treasurer of the Insurance Committee.

The Building Committee continues to work with our architects, Clohessy Harris & Kaiser, LLC

(www.chkarch.com) and our construction manager, Petra Construction (www.petraconstruction.com) to

complete Phase C, Design Development, with our fast-track approach to finalizing the site work and foundation

plan to enable us to break ground. We have scheduled our groundbreaking ceremony for Sunday,

September 23rd

at 4:00 pm and Petra Construction will mobilize immediately after that date. There is a lot of

work to be completed prior to the groundbreaking but this is an exciting time and a moment we’ve been

planning for since January.

The Building Committee and Restoration Committee have been working with CHK Architects and Petra

Construction to provide the design details for the south wall of the Church Offices which will also serve as part

of the new firewall system separating that space from the new Meeting House that will be constructed later.

Green Construction is building the new wall which included a new footing and added protection from the

elements as this future interior wall will serve as an exterior wall until the Meeting House is framed and

protected from weather.

When Petra Construction submitted their construction estimate to build the new Meeting House, the insurance

company asked for a detailed breakdown of why Petra Construction’s estimate was higher than the insurance

company’s estimate. Such a breakdown would be required to justify what we would need to rebuild the

Meeting House. Given that the insurance company, based on their estimate, will only support the cost to

rebuild exactly what we had on December 31, 2011 along with a finite amount ($500,000) of code upgrades, it

became obvious that CHK Architects and Petra Construction needed to work together to develop a similar

estimate in order to highlight their differences in costs. Rebuilding what we had, in many respects, would be

more costly in certain areas than what new era construction would cost. CHK Architects and Petra Construction

are actively working on their new estimate which will be reviewed with the Building Committee on August

28th

. Their presentation of their estimate has been scheduled with the insurance company on September 6th

at

Petra Construction’s office in North Haven, CT. Members of the Building Committee and Insurance

Committee will also attend the meeting as support resources for CHK Architects and Petra Construction.

The Building Committee and CHK Architects’ interior designer, Jackie Smith, continue to work with our

finishes “experts” (Laura Driscoll, Laurie Gorski, and Neil Connell) to select interior finishes for the church.

Most of the church finishes have been decided with the Sanctuary being the remaining area where we continue

to discuss carpeting, pew cushions, and flooring. The group met again on August 16th

and concluded we

wanted to see more material samples for pew cushions and decided we liked white oak flooring and wanted to

see samples of it in natural and different stain finishes. At this phase of the construction process, the architects

needed our selection of white oak flooring for cost and acoustical properties. We have lots of time to make the

other decisions which do not impact our construction plans. Other important decisions have yet to be made

which are still in the early stages. For example, we haven’t opened discussions with pew manufacturers yet so

the finishing details of them will come after we make pew selections.

We have reached final agreement on the contract with our organ builder, Richards Fowkes & Company, and

both parties have signed the contract and the church has sent them our first payment which sets the contract into

motion. The builder began the design work and the construction of some of the pipes during the final phase of

our negotiations and they are now fully engaged in getting our organ built. The entire process will take about a

year, with a design phase, a construction phase, a shipment and installation phase, and a final voicing phase.

This was a major accomplishment over the past month with Attorney Mark Maniscalco leading our efforts on

the negotiations with a lot of background support from Pat Jones, Sara Mulvihill, and Anne Kirkpatrick.

Similarly, the complex contract with our construction manager, Petra Construction, is close to being finalized.

This contract is based on AIA contract forms that specifically define the responsibilities of Owners, Architects,

and Construction Managers. The contract form is considered to be fair to all parties and outlines the specific

responsibilities of all parties and the penalties if a party does not meet their responsibilities. There are two

major sections of the contract. The first is Document A133 which is the “Standard Form of Agreement

Between Owner and Construction Manager as Constructor”, and the second is Document A201 which is the

“General Conditions of the Contract for Construction.” Since last month’s meeting, we received confirmation

from CHK Architects that they will perform the duties of the Architect in Petra Construction’s contract as part

of our existing contract with CHK Architects. We proposed some minor contract changes to Petra Construction

which they have agreed to make and we await the final revision of the contract to read, approve, and sign.

Again, a lot was accomplished in the past few weeks thanks to the same people mentioned above.

Hugh Schweitzer of CHK Architects is leading the effort with their designers and engineering consultants to

finalize the site and concrete foundation plans to submit them to the Town of Somers for approval. Once

approved, they will be given to Petra Construction for bid purposes with the plan to begin construction

immediately after the groundbreaking on September 23rd

. We decided earlier to take this “fast track” approach

to get the site work and foundation into the construction phase while we finish the design of the rest of the

Meeting House. The remaining slab from the old Meeting House will be one of the first items removed and

excavation will be done to accommodate the new foundation and underground utility runs such as electricity,

water, sprinkler system water, and heating fuels. A lot of effort has been put into the utility planning to

accommodate the need to get the Church Office work completed and be consistent with the future plans for the

complex when the Meeting House is constructed.

We are currently reviewing quotations for bells and carillons from manufacturers and we are close to making

our decision on a used bell from three that have been found from two of the vendors that quoted new bells.

Specifically, Verdin now has two used bells in inventory since last month to compare with the one bell that

Church Specialties has. The “used bell option” provides the opportunity for some savings while giving a bell

with some previous history a new home in our church. We will be making the decision on the bell in the

coming weeks and the carillon decision will come after we review the quotations and examine features and

costs. There is plenty of time to review our carillon options and make our final decision.

In summary, the next month will be very exciting as we plan for the groundbreaking ceremony, finalize the site

and foundation plans, continue with the design of the building, and finalize the plans with Petra Construction to

turn our property into a major construction site. Soon, CHK Architects’ design plans will be turning over to

Petra Construction who will lead us through the construction phase under the watchful eye of CHK Architects

and the Building Committee. This is a major milestone which presents a new set of challenges for all. It’s an

exciting time that many individuals and committees have been working hard to prepare for and we are thankful

to everyone who has helped the church get to this point. It’s time to look back over our shoulders and see

where we were and think about all the work that has been done by so many people to get us to today. The

Building Committee continues to receive communications via their e-mail address:

build@somerscongregational.org which will remain active for members of the congregation to communicate

with us. Approximately one month to groundbreaking with a lot to accomplish before hand, and we’re looking

forward to this moment to turn the page to a new phase of the construction process.

Respectfully submitted, Mark Marschall

The Don Kennett Memorial CROP Walk October 14, 2012

Mark your calendar! Once again this year we will be

starting and ending at Sonny’s Place, there will be a choice

to walk the 5K or 10K route, a [percentage of the funds

raised will be given to Champ’s Place (our own Food

Pantry), the Confirmation Class will form the core of out

walkers and there will be special recognition given to the

walker who raises the most funds to help combat hunger.

In addition to helping raise for to combat local and global

hunger, the CROP Walk is a great way to spend an

afternoon! With a choice of either the 5K or 10K walk

through the safe neighborhoods of Somers, there is something for nearly everyone.

WALKERS are encouraged to sign up family and friends as sponsors, raising funds for the cause.

THOSE NOT WALKING are urged to participate by sponsoring one who does.

Our church has a great tradition of supporting the annual Don Kennett Memorial CROP Walk, and we

would like to make 2012 the BIGGEST and most generous walk yet.

Proud To Be An American

The Mission Board is sponsoring a “Red White and Blue Collection” beginning on July 4th

and ending on Labor

Day. The goal of the drive is to collect items for members of the military stationed in Afghanistan.

Below is a list of items that you can donate in the box for the Marines in Afghanistan:

Hygiene Items: Bar Soap, Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Deodorant,

Mouthwash, Sunblock, Shaving Cream, Disposable Razors, Shampoo,

Hand Lotion, Chapstick, Foot Powder. Note: Hand Sanitizer is not allowed

Comfort Items: New Magazines, Puzzle or Sudoku Books, Handmade

Items (i.e. small pillow, blanket, prayer shawl, etc.), journals, books with

inspirational quotes…be creative!

The Missions Board would like to thank you in advance for your

participation in this important drive.

Needed items:

TUNA

CHILDREN’S SNACKS

JUICE BOXES

PEANUT BUTTER

JELLY

PASTA

CANNED PEAS, CARROTS, CORN, GREEN BEANS

We gratefully accept monetary donations as they go a long way at Foodshare.

Somers Congregational Church’s Endowment “Birthday Club”

Have you had a BIRTHDAY in 2012? If so, NOW is the time to make your contribution to the

Church’s Endowment “Birthday Club”. The “Birthday Club” is a way to increase our Church’s

Endowment and celebrate your birthday by helping others. Here’s how it works – On or around

your birthday donate $1.00 (or more) for every year that you are celebrating. If it is your 45th

birthday, write a check to the church for $45.00 with a note saying

“Birthday Club” on the message line. This money will go into our

Endowment to benefit the Church now and in years to come. You

can also donate on a spouse’s, child’s, grandchild’s, or any relative’s

birthday. You can also donate for any reason such as: you want to

provide for the Church’s future, you need a tax deduction, the

Church has a birthday, the country has a birthday, etc.

Thank You for providing for our Church’s future!!!!

Answers from the Pledge Committee Why Make a Pledge? Finding ways to grow deeper in our faith requires opening our

hearts to prayer and a willingness to personally evaluate and

challenge existing habits. One way to do this is to return a

portion of our financial blessings to God through our tithes and

offerings. Our giving recognizes God as the source of our

blessings. Our gifts help to create and implement ministries that

change lives, transform communities, and spread the good news

of Christ.

How much should I give? Giving comes from the heart, and prayer is essential for

determining what to give. Your decision to be faithful in giving originates from your love for God. Evaluate

your current giving. Does it reflect your blessings? Is it generous? Is it time for you to increase your giving to

God and the work of the church? The Bible speaks of the tithe as a standard for giving. The tithe is defined as

the first ten percent of our earnings, returned to God and for the work of the church. This is difficult for some,

and others have grown in their generosity well beyond this biblical standard. Growing in the grace of giving is a

worthy, God-honoring goal to consider each year. Your intentional decision to give in proportion to your

resources will enable you to accomplish your personal, good stewardship goals.

Why is returning a Pledge Card important? By completing and returning a Pledge Card, you are expressing your intent and affirming your desire to honor

God with your resources. Returning your Pledge Card makes it possible for our church to plan and implement

ministries without hesitation. Knowing your plans allows wise management of resources throughout the year.

All ministries our church implements, are dependent on the generosity of God’s people.

What happens to my Pledge Card once I return it? Your Pledge Card will remain confidential and is not a legally binding contract. It is your personal commitment

to the Lord. Who pledges? Members; Friends; Parents; Newcomers; Each of us who is connected to the Church in Somers are asked is

expected to make an annual financial commitment to support the church.

How much should I pledge? We believe that our standard of giving should reflect our standard of living. We ask everyone to consider

making a pledge that is both responsible and significant based on his or her own financial situation. A

commitment appropriate to our faith tradition is 2% to 5% of net household income. Most of our members are

able to contribute on a regular basis and many households already pledge at these levels. For those who do not,

we ask you to consider working towards this goal over time. For newer members and friends, we ask that you

consider pledging an amount that reflects a serious commitment to the place you have chosen as your spiritual

home – not simply to make a donation to yet another charity.

I have a limited income, what should I pledge? Know that you are always welcome at our church. If you’re out of work, have a modest income, or are facing

demands on your resources, then pledge what you can.

I’m doing well, what should I pledge? If you attend Sunday services, are active in our programs and activities, or if you have children in Sunday

school or confirmation class, and these connections are important in your life, then please consider more than

3% - 5% and demonstrate your commitment with a significant pledge.

What about the Sunday offering? We appreciate Sunday offerings, but they represent only a tiny percent of our income. If you’re a visitor,

thanks. If it’s your pledge, please write a check so we can credit you. If you are a regular participant, please

pledge — you rely on the Somers Congregational Church, U.C.C., and we need to rely on you.

What about the time I contribute? Your volunteer efforts are greatly appreciated! You understand the value of our staff, our building, and the

things that we do for each other and for the rest of the world. These require money as well as time. Most

members of our church volunteer their time, too, as well as pledge.

How do I change my current pledge? A pledge is a promise – it is not a contract – but your letting us know of your intention helps us to anticipate

our cash flow and manage our budget.

Reasons to Give To Your Church in 2013 1. To be generous. 2. To demonstrate your gratitude to God for all your blessings. 3. To give back to your church because it makes a difference in your life. 4. To confirm that you share your church’s core values of being open, welcoming, faithful, thoughtful and

giving. 5. To share with others less fortunate. 6. To support your children’s Sunday school, Nursery, Confirmation, and all multi-generational programs;

Bible Study, Book Club, Women’s Fellowship, Deacons, Membership, Flowers, and so many more

programs. 7. To show your love of our music program. 8. To care for our buildings and grounds. 9. To support all of the staff of the church. 10. To enable our church leaders to plan church programs and build for the future.

The Somers Congregational, United Church of Christ is financially autonomous. We have no diocese or

umbrella organization to support us if we fail to meet our annual operating budget needs. We are it: The pledge

you make and then honor in the upcoming year keeps the Church thriving. Thank you.

Ground breaking ceremony September 23 (599 main street @ 4:00 p.m.)

On Sunday, September 23 at 4 P.M. area

residents and other interested people are invited to join with the

members and friends of the church for a Ground Breaking Celebration. The

Building Committee, along with representatives from CHK Architects and

Petra Construction will join in celebrating the beginning of

construction of our new Meeting House.

There will be special music by the choir, a brief reflection by our pastor, Dr. Barry Cass and an opportunity for everyone to celebrate a

new and glorious beginning. Refreshments will follow.

Deadline for Next Highlights is September 19, 2012.

U.S. Postage Paid

Non-Profit Org. Permit Number

334 Enfield, CT 06082

Somers Congregational Church

599 Main Street, PO Box 295 Somers, CT 06071

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Sunday Worship: 8:15 a.m. & 10:00 a.m. Office Hours (M-Th.): 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Telephone: (860) 763-4021 Fax: (860) 763-5146 E-mail: somerscong@somerscongregational.org Web site: www.somerscongregational.org

Senior Pastor: The Rev. Dr. Barry Cass Administrative Secretary: Carly Sanborn Organist/Music Director: Jacqueline Nappi CE Director: Liz Scanlon Care Room: Barbara Anderson