August 29, 2017 Volume 17 Number 18

Modesto Church of the Brethren

2301 Woodland Avenue, Modesto, CA 95358-9501 (209)523-1438 fax: 209-523-1469 ! e-mail: office@modcob.org ! web site: www.modcob.org

Ministers: Everyone in the Congregation

“Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they are found trustworthy.” 2 Corinthians 4:1-2

September 3 will be the beginning of a four week stewardship emphasis for our congregation, called “Found Faithful.” We will consider how to become more faithful stewards as we explore what it means to be: “Found faithful, Faithful in little Faithful with much, and Faithful with all.”

God’s great love and gracious abundance are mysterious and unfathomable. God has called us and equipped us to be faithful in our unique roles. We are invited to participate in the shared roles we have, moving our church forward. We begin in prayer, by inviting God’s guidance through this special emphasis.

We hope you will join us in worship each week. On Sunday mornings, at 9:30, September 3-24, will

be Bible study and discussion, focusing on this theme. It will be led by Jim Martinez.

During the second week of September, you will be mailed a letter with ideas for committing to use your time and talents. There is also an “estimate of giving” card. Then, on September 24, we will join one another in presenting our commitments of time, talents and finances, in support of the ministry and mission to which we are called, as the Modesto Church of the Brethren. (If you are unable to be present September 24, your commitments can be sent to the church office.)

Then, after church, to celebrate our renewed commitments, you are invited to a light lunch, served in the Gathering Place

—The Stewardship Commission, Margaret Johnson, Co-chair, Jim Martinez, Co-chair,Pat Royer, Joann Ewert, Edie Ransom

The ChimesContinuing the work of Jesus. Peacefully. Simply. Together.

Tera Thayer Reports As I reflect on my first six months at Modesto Church of the Brethren I cannot help but smile at all the fond memories I have been able to create with so many of you during various activities. Youth group meetings, Christian Education meetings, worship, Peace Week and Family Unity Night. We are off to a good start as a new team!It's been great getting to know the MCOB youth. We have all been able to get to know each other and the youth have opened right up to the changes and embraced them. Planning youth worship proved to be a challenging, but rewarding experience for everyone involved. A special thank-you needs to be given to Josh and Rachel Gilstrap-Katen as well as Megan Mizuno for making that big day happen in my absence. They each are so ready to help serve the youth, as we are called to do by God. I am looking forward to the upcoming months and all the wonderful plans we have in place to help the MCOB youth on their spiritual journey. Keep an eye out for upcoming Youth events in the Chimes and let us know if you would like to get involved!The Christian Education Commission (Bonnie Munson, Shelby Clarke, Karleen Daniels and Josh Katen) has really been knowledgeable guides for my crash course about MCOB kids and youth. I am so blessed to be part of such a caring group of individuals who strive to see the success in the next generation. As a group we have been able to plan and execute some wonderful FUN (Family Unity Night) events. Each person brings their own talents and gifts to the table and we are all able to support each other in our calling to help kids follow Jesus. This year I was also blessed to take part in Peace Week. We had so many youth and adult volunteers, I won’t go over them all again by name. If you’re interested in the details, our director, Mary Pieczarka, wrote an article for the July 4th issue of Chimes about how the week went and who helped make it happen. It was a beautiful

depiction of the week we had! It's been great getting to know the other faces of the congregation on Sundays. We all have a calling to serve and it is our duty to reach in our hearts and find where that calling may be leading us to serve. If you would like to contact me to help with the youth, children or family ministry areas (or maybe you just need a friend), please feel free to reach out to me at 209-596-9737 or tera@modcob.org.

September 3 - “Having Faith or Being Faithful”

Romans 12:1-2 Having faith in God is important! Believing that there is a power in this universe that is a force for peace and justice that was revealed by Jesus, even when it doesn’t make sense to do so is central to our lives as Christians. But, having faith is not the final goal of Christianity; becoming transformed persons who work at peace and justice is.

September 10 “The Myth of Scarcity”

Mark 8:11-21 One of the foundations of our Brethren beliefs is the idea that is “living simply so that others may simply live.” This view suggests there is enough for everyone as long as no one gets greedy. The opposing view, one held by many people and effectively used by politicians, is that there isn’t enough for everyone and the key to a happy life is to make sure you get yours. Any guesses where Jesus comes out on this?

Why "Passing the Peace"? “May the peace of the Lord be with you.” “And also with you.” This simple exchange of words may at first seem like a casual greeting, much as we might greet

Reflections

Invitations to Worship

people in any other way. But when we pass the peace among each other we are imitating Jesus who greeted his disciples that way in post resurrection appearances. We are also conveying the hope for our neighbor’s experience of the gift of grace offered by a loving God through Jesus and in so doing we extend our love and grace to each other. That is why we continue this practice, each week, before the benediction, as a part of our morning worship service.

The International Day of Peace “Peace Day” is observed around the world each year on 21 September.

Established in 1981 by unanimous United Nations resolution, the General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to “commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.” The Worship and Spiritual Life Commission and the Witness Commission are co-sponsoring an observance of the International Day of Peace on Thursday, September 21. Meet at the labyrinth at 7:00 PM for prayer and walking meditation.

YOUTH~ We are trying something new

and we need YOU! On Sunday, September 24th 2017 the MCOB Youth leaders will be hosting a pre-worship coffee and connections group. Youth are encouraged to join us at 9:30 am to have an open forum conversation about our faith. We will be meeting in room 11. Our goal is to help youth from 7th thru 12th grades explore topics that are relevant to their faith and the times we live in. If you are interested in this event or have any topics you would like us to cover please contact MCOB Youth in the following ways: call the church office at 209-523-1438 or email tera@modcob.org See you there!-Tera

Words of encouragement from Romans 5:3,4 (TLB), "We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials for we know that they are good for us—they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady."

Together let us give thanks and express our gratitude for the bounty of God’s blessings: for the freedom to come together and worship, for family and the opportunities of education, for the gifts and talents shared with each other, for the love and gift of true life through Jesus. We pray for those preparing for surgery and those who are beginning the healing process, that they may know God’s presence and healing power and experience patience and healing. We lift up those who grieve the loss of loved ones and friends and those who are victims of disasters and disruptions that we may learn to respond with compassion.

Deacon on call for September: Lynda Sesser

Coffee and Conversation September 9th at 9:30am

Topic: The Vital Ministry Journey The Modesto COB was well on their way of this thing called the Vital Ministry Journey when I started as Interim Pastor and I’ve been trying to catch up. I’m looking for help in doing that so on Saturday, September 9 at 9:30 we’re going to have a coffee and conversation in the Gathering Place and I’m hoping you’ll be able to help me get a better grasp of what has happened, what is

Hold in the Light

From the Pastor’s Desk

happening and what is yet to happen on this journey. Please come out and join me as we discuss things like: What were you hoping would come out of this process? So far what do you think has come out of it? How do you feel about the process up to this point? What would you like to see come out of the process as we move forward? Which of the goals identified by this process do you feel are the most important? What have you learned about the Modesto Church of the Brethren through this process? I hope that we can get a great turnout for this event. The more input we have the better it will be.Thanks-Michael Fletcher

Interim Pastor Availability 8/30 - 9/1 In Office: 9 till Noon, available for appointment other times 9/2 - 9/3 Available for appointment 9/6 - 9/8 Out of town - Available by phone or e-mail 9/9 - 9/10 Available for appointment

Okay—Listen up, Everybody… If you are or ever have been a "choir wannabe," your time is coming! Choir rehearsals resume on Wednesday, September 6, 7:00 pm. There's a place for you in our august ensemble, singing praise to God and preparing for worship leadership. Any questions, check with me. -Stephen Reddy, Minister of Music

Ice Cream Social- not All Church Picnic

Fellowship and Recreation would like to explain the change from All Church Picnic to Ice Cream Social. Due to the loss of some trees in the courtyard our shade has greatly diminished; there is no place to put tables and chairs that would be in shade right after worship. Looking out into the courtyard at our last potluck it was beautiful in the courtyard at 6PM. So in order to make everyone comfortable we thought we’d have an event at that time, hence the All Church Ice Cream Social. We invite you to bring your lawn chairs and enjoy homemade ice cream and cobbler with us. We will provide the cobbler and ice cream toppings; we are asking you to be sure to signup to let us know you’re coming and who will are able to make ice cream. The youth are planning some games for us to add to the fun. Soooo see you there, in the church courtyard, on September 10th at 6PM.-Fellowship and Recreation

Prospectors’ Potluck Bob and Lynda Sesser have invited us to come to their house for a potluck on September 17th. We look forward to good eats and even better conversation with each other. Sesser’s address is 1901 Landini Way, Modesto. See you there with a dish to share!

Ladies’ Night Out Our next gathering will be on Thursday, September 14 at 5:00p, meeting at Marie Callender's. Please let me know to count you in on the reservation. We're trying a new system to choose the restaurant for the following month.  Whoever has a birthday the following month gets to choose the site for her birthday month's LNO. Jeannie's September birthday allowed her to choose Marie Callender for this one..This should be fun! -Linda Owen

In the Days Ahead

The Youth Group would like to invite all youth from 7th to 12th grade to join us Sunday,

September 17th at McHenry Bowl from 12:30-2:30. We are rolling in the fall season and there will be fun to spare. Bring your friends; this is a great time to show your friends fun in faith! Let us know if you will need a

ride so arrangements can be made in advance. There will be lunch and bowling shoes provided. Just bring some bowling socks and be ready to have a great time! We will need an RSVP for this event by Friday, August 29th in order to secure the lanes and lunch! To RSVP you can contact MCOB Youth in the following ways: call the church office at 209-523-1438 or email tera@modcob.org or stop Megan, Josh or Tera when you see us for more information. We are always welcoming new youth and volunteers!

Senior Ministries Event: A Trip to Scenic Great Britain

Come for lunch, followed with pictures of a recent trip to Great Britain by several members of our church. When: noon, September 28 Where: Gathering Place Cost: $7 per person Please help us plan by signing up by September 24 on the Senior Ministries board in the narthex.

Fall All Church Work Day Saturday October 7th

Remember that we have the sign up board in the narthex with a lot of open slots. Lots to do for everyone. Any questions please call Bill Johnson 209 522-0746 Our next work day will not be until April 2018!

Increasing Your Ability To Remember! The Health and Healing Ministry has selected a topic for September that is appropriate for those of us who are “aging”. Yes, we realize that all of us fit into that category of humanity. The article is entitled, “6 Tricks to Fix Information in Your Mind.” This two-page handout has information about…hmmm, now what was it I was doing? I can’t remember! Oh, yes, now I remember! The handout provides us with 6 ways to better remember all sorts of information, from people’s names to where you’ve put your car keys this time, to where you parked your car. So please remember to pick up your photocopy of this 2-pager on the wooden table in the main entryway. And if you forget to pick up your handout on tricks to helping your memory, you really need to do so next Sunday! Your Health and Healing Ministry deacons, Dan and Trish Galt.

Workshop with scholarship available The PSWD Board of Directors has approved the payment for registration of a one day workshop to be held in Woodland Hills on Wednesday, September 27, 2017. The workshop is entitled "Leadership and Anxiety in the Church: A Family Systems Perspective". Our Board has approved the payment of an overnight room and transportation for those who wish to attend. If you are interested please call Karen Cosner at 529-6693 by September 3rd.

Work Day Signup Poster Pick a project.

Work with a friend. Have fun

and get lots done, too!

To Youth

Items to Note

Report on Stanislaus County Interfaith Council and Interfaith Ministries

Ten faith communities are scheduled to participate in this year's Thanksgiving Celebration, set for November 20th: Islamic, Jewish, Catholic, Native American, Sikh, Humanist, Buddhist, Hindu, African-American, and Evangelical Christian. Negotiations are ongoing to find an Evangelical Christian venue for this year's event. At our latest meeting, it was pointed out that congregational contributions continue to be a major focus for fund raising to support Interfaith Ministries food pantry and clothes closet that serve the homeless, poor, and destitute. New fund raising mailers are ready to be sent out with the overall goal of increasing the IFM donor list. The envelopes host the new slogan of IFM, which is, "Feed Modesto." Please see me if you would like to receive one. The Executive Director of IFM, Elizabeth Wight, has been selected to be one of six speakers at an upcoming TED Talk at the Gallo Center on September 27th. Tickets are available at a cost of $35.00. Submitted by Dan Galt, MCOB SCIC Witness Commission Rep and IFM Board Member

Announcement Loop Slides Those wanting a slide made for the announcement loop, please get the information to NancyB, by the Wednesday before you want the slide shown. Include logo or photo, if you wish and tell who , what, when, where. Note SLIDE FOR LOOP in the subject line, then email to: chimes@modcob.org

Articles and photos for the next issue of Chimes are due by Thursday, September 7, 2017.Use article name in the subject line and email to: chimes@modcob.org The Editor thanks you.

Tuesday-August 28 Pastor’s Sabbath 8:30a-4p The Quiet Place open in Rm. 5 Wednesday- 8:30a-4p The Quiet Place open in Rm. 5 Thursday- 8:30a-4p The Quiet Place open in Rm. 5 Friday- 8:30a-4p The Quiet Place open in Rm. 5 Saturday- Next Sunday – September 3rd 9:30a Sunday School – Jr. High-adult (5th grade and under welcome in the nursery with Shaun and Kelly!) 11a Worship

IN THE NEAR FUTURE September 4 Office closed – Labor Day September 6 7pm Choir Starts September 9 9:30a Coffee & Conversation with Pastor Fletcher September 10 6p Ice Cream Social September 14 5p Ladies Night Out – Marie Callenders September 17 12:15p Prospector Potluck-Sesser’s September 21 7:00p Labyrinth Walk September 24 12:15p Stewardship Luncheon September 28 12p Senior Ministries – Great Britain

MARK YOUR CALENDAR October 1 Worldwide Communion Sunday October 7 8a All Church work day October 14 9a Coffee & Conversation October 15 12:15p Prospector Potluck -Johnson’s October 26 Sr. Ministries – Haggin Museum/Stockton October 28 Harvest Festival

Just a reminder …. Choir starts on September 6th at 7pm

The Condensed Calendar