Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
Community Non Profit Organization
CONNECTION Postage Paid
Community Church Irwin, PA 15642
A United Methodist Congregation Permit No. 5
3487 Route 130, Irwin, PA 15642
Change Service Requested DATED MATERIAL: Please Expedite
Community Church
A United Methodist Congregation Pastor: Rev. John E. Ciampa - [email protected]
Pastor: Rev. Dr. Rich Phipps - [email protected]
Minister of Pastoral Care: Rev. James Decker - [email protected]
Director of Youth Ministries: Scott Uhlinger - [email protected]
Director of Children’s Ministry: Erin Kerstetter - [email protected]
Director of Connectional Ministries: Elizabeth Somes - [email protected]
Director of Traditional Worship Arts: Keeley DiMartino - [email protected]
Director of Current Worship Arts: Mike Kleinschmidt - [email protected]
Treasurer: Heather Dolhi - 412-855-2515 - [email protected]
Financial Secretary: Melanie Barrett - 724-392-4212 - [email protected]
Director of Communications: Katie Morgan - [email protected]
Director of Food Ministries: Kendra Simpson - [email protected]
Facilities Manager: Deb MacAllister - [email protected]
Facilities Maintenance - Bob Hengstenberg - 724-217-0446 - [email protected]
Discipleship: Dawn Dormire Evangelism: Don Dolhi
Worship: Pam Ramsey Communications: Katie Morgan
Church Secretaries: Carole Helsel - [email protected]
Wendy Johnson - [email protected]
Phone: (724) 744-3413 FAX: (724) 744-4758
E-mail Address: [email protected]
Church Web Page Address: www.communityumchurch.com
Worship Services:
Sunday Evening - 5:30 p.m. - Youth Worship
Saturday Evening – 6:00 p.m.- Current (Contemporary) Worship
Sunday Morning – 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. - Traditional Worship
Sunday Morning - 10:45 a.m. - Current (Contemporary) Worship
Sunday School – 9:45 a.m.
Community Connection is published monthly for members and friends of Community United Methodist Church.
Deadline for submission of articles is the 10th of every month unless otherwise noted.
Articles can be delivered to Pastor John, Pastor Rich or to the church office.
STAYING FOCUSED…
“Taking Sides”
There is an old story about a man who continued to attend worship services in his church even though he was
nearly blind and legally deaf. When questioned why he bothered since it seemed certain he, in his seriously
impaired condition, could get little from the service. He responded; “You are mostly right, but I want to show
whose side I’m on!”
There are several special times in the year when the church observes what we sometimes call “High, Holy
Days”. I grew up in a town that was predominately made up of people of the Catholic faith and my boyhood
friends used to speak of “Holy Days of Obligation”, that is, days when everyone made sure they went to
church.
In our United Methodist, Protestant tradition, we somewhat recognize Christmas and Easter as our own version
of Holy Days of Obligation. I would like to put my bid in to make Ash Wednesday and the Sundays in Lent as
Days of Holy Obligation here at Community Church. Obviously I don’t have the power or authority to mandate
your presence at worship during Lent, but I want you to know that if I could do so, I would do so! I believe the
season of Lent is that important to our spiritual life.
Ash Wednesday, March 1st this year, marks the beginning of the Lenten Season. It is a traditional time of
penance, self-denial, introspection and deepened devotion to the matters of faith. The season lasts for 40 days
(not counting Sundays) and ends with the celebration of Easter, this year falling on April 16th. (“Current”
Easter at CUMC on April 15 & 16)
My challenge to the saints of CUMC is to mark these 6 weeks as spiritually vital. I ask each member of the
family of Community United Methodist Church to treat Ash Wednesday and each Sunday during Lent as
“High, Holy Days” or “Holy Days of Obligation”. Let’s use this season of Lent to “show whose side we’re
on.” Together let us place worship participation and daily devotion as a first priority, a “holy obligation” if you
will.
Plan now to make a point of Bible reading, prayer and self-denial during Lent. Is it not time to re-ground your
faith and renew your dedication to God? Is not Lent in 2017 time to “show whose side you are on”? In fact, the
response we each make during Lent is truly going to indicate one way or the other of “whose side we are on!”
Grace & Peace,
Pastor John
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
“To Know Christ and Share Christ With Others”
Vol. 22, No. 2 March 2017
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
ASH WEDNESDAY
Lent is late this year. It begins on Ash Wednesday, March 1st. We will offer several ways to initiate our Lenten
journey.
6:30am to 7:30am -You are invited to the sanctuary for a time of personal Mediation. There is no liturgy or
preaching. There will be devotional material provided. If you wish, a pastor will be present to offer
the Imposition of Ashes. Come and go as you wish, stay for the whole hour if you like.
9:30am - Community UMC will host the Greensburg District United Methodist Women’s Ash Wednesday
Communion Service. All women of our church and community are welcome to attend. A Continental
Breakfast follows.
Noon to 1:00pm – Repeating the informal, personal devotional time, as described above for the 6:30 to
7:30am Devotions.
7:00pm Ash Wednesday Communion Service
The service will be traditional in style and include special music and the observance of the Lord’s
Supper. The service will include the imposition of ashes for those who wish to receive them.
WHY ASHES?
It is a long standing tradition in the Church to use ashes made from burning the palms from last year’s Palm
Sunday celebration and then to make the “sign of the cross” on the forehead (or back of the hand) of
worshippers to indicate confession of sin and a desire to seek God’s forgiveness.
Each year many members of Community Church report that this is one of the most meaningful worship experi-
ences of the year. Everyone, member and friend of our congregation, is urged to attend this service, a most
fitting way to begin our journey to Easter.
The River (Prayer Service)…Every Wednesday in Lent -6:30 to 7:00P.M.
During Lent we will offer “The River,” our mid-week prayer service, not once a month
as is our normal schedule, but each Wednesday during Lent. Everyone is invited to this
informal service of music and prayer. There is no preaching, and just a bit of liturgy to
focus our thoughts. There is time to pray, to light a candle if you choose. There is also
time and opportunity for anointing with oil. (James 5: 14-15) This prayer time will
enrich your Lenten journey.
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
MARCH SCHEDULE
ACOLYTES - Contact Carol Decker - 724-515-7252
March 5 8:30 Morgan Spudy & Maura Coiner 11:00 Logan Kerstetter & Samantha Hollerman
March 12 8:30 Aidan Coiner & Jared Miller 11:00 Emma Chamberlin & Trinity Alaia
March 19 8:30 Isaiah Francis & Allen Kane 11:00 Haley Begg & Allison Huffman
March 26 8:30 Maddie Watson & Chloe Ziros 11:00 Daniel Stone & Ben Hollerman
SUNDAY GREETERS - Contact Sandy Wessel - 724-744-3754
March 5 8:30 Pat and Warren Barkell & Flo and Dwight Willaman
11:00 Donna and Raymond Blasi & Jill Spillers and Alyssa Mountan
March 12 8:30 Mike Fabac Family
11:00 Neil French Family
March 19 8:30 Bill Davis & Barbara Davis
11:00 Carol and Bill Soule & Violet and John Hynes
March 26 8:30 Amber and Chris Watson & Bonnie and Joe Ramus
11:00 Heather and Jarrod Rodehaver & Charles Hall
ALTAR GUILD
February 26-March 4 Deb MacAllister
March 5-11 Dolly O’Neil
March 12-18 Carolyn Miller
March 19-25 Carol Soule
March 26-April 1 Elaine Petroski
United Methodist Women Our next regular meeting will be Monday, March 13th at 7 pm in the Multi Ministries Room. Hostesses for the evening are Ruth Bush and Auddie Hayes. Jamie Bostard from Twilight Wishes will be with us to share this evening. We will also commemorate a Call to Prayer and Self-Denial, with this year's theme being Abundant Health for Women and Children. Come out and join fellowship with us. All women of the church are invited!
Looking forward in April is our "Spring" This n That Sale to be held on Saturday, April 29th. As you start your spring cleaning of closets and cupboards, please save your unwanted, useable items such as furniture, household items, toys, jewelry, books, dishes and children's clothing for this event. A bakesale and lunch will also be available. More info to follow in the April newsletter and church bulletins. Proceeds will benefit many local and global missions that we support.
MARCH CALENDAR
Sundays 8:30 & 11 a.m. Traditional Worship Service
9:45 a.m. Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Current Worship Service
Kids4Christ
1:30 p.m. Youth Worship Team rehearsal
5:30 p.m. Fuel Middle (grades 6-8)
6:30 p.m. Fuel (grades 9-12)
6:30 p.m. Community Ringers
7:30 p.m. Ignition Choir
8:00 p.m. AA’s Open meeting
Monday 10:00 a.m. Worship Team
6:00 p.m. Made to Crave
6:30 p.m. Caregiving Study
7:00 p.m. Small Group “Galatians-Why God Accepts Us”
7:15 p.m. Praise Moves
Tuesdays 9:00 a.m. Staff Meeting
9:15 a.m. Praise Moves
9:30 a.m. Disciple 2
6:00 p.m. Upwards practice
6:30 p.m. Grief Share
Divorce Care
Wednesdays 10:00 a.m. Connectional Meeting
6:00 p.m. Disciple 2
6:30 p.m. Disciple 1
6:30 p.m. The River
6:45 p.m. Disciple 3, 4
6:45 p.m. Community Kids
7:00 p.m. Faith Lessons
Thursdays 9:00 a.m. Busy Hands Sewing Group
6:00 p.m. Upwards practice
7:00 p.m. Chancel Choir
Fridays 11a.m.-4 p.m. Lenten lunches
4p.m.-7:30pm Lenten dinners
Saturdays 9:00 a.m. Upwards games
4:00 p.m. CLASS 101
6:00 p.m. Current Worship Service
1st & 3rd Mondays 2:00 p.m. Soaring Eagles Bible Study
1st & 3rd Wednesdays 10:00 a.m. Small Group Bible Study (co-ed)
7:00 p.m. Emmaus Reunion meeting
7:00 p.m. Small Group Bible Study (co-ed)
2nd & 4th Wednesdays 7:00 p.m. Men’s Study
2nd & 4th Wednesdays 7:00 p.m. Faith Lesson
2nd & 4th Thursdays 9:30 a.m. Small Group Bible Study (women)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Wednesday March 1 6:30am Meditation & Imposition of ashes
9:30am United Methodist Women’s Ash Wednesday Service
12:00pm Meditation & Imposition of ashes
7:00pm Ash Wednesday Worship Service
Tuesday March 7 12:00pm Super Seniors lunch & meeting
Monday March 13 7:00pm United Methodist Women’s meeting
Tuesday March 14 7:00pm Staff Parish Relations Committee meeting
Wednesday March 15 7:00pm Finance Committee meeting
Tuesday March 21 12-8pm Blood Drive
7:00pm Trustees meeting
Sunday March 26 9:45am Campership Sunday
Monday March 27 7:00pm Church Council meeting
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
Builders Corner
Good News! Good News! The Building Committee received some really good news from the
McKnight Group in January. By rebidding the project after the removal of the southwest wing, they were able to meet
their target construction cost of $7.957 million. This means that the total construction cost, which includes other items
for which we’re responsible, should be in line with the costs that the Building Committee shared with the congregation
back in 2015.
With this last bid, McKnight received costs for several “Add” alternates – things that the Building Committee would like
to have done, but wanted to see what they would cost first, as well as several “Credit” alternates - changes that could be
made to the plan that would save us money. The Building Committee considered all of the alternates and selected three
– two “Credits” and one “Add” - that are worth noting. With the new addition, we will have very little flat ground left
for our playground. To create a flat pad, McKnight proposed to build a retaining wall near the existing front entrance of
the church. By deferring the construction of the southwest wing, the construction of the retaining wall can also be
deferred, and the playground can be installed in the flat area designated for the wing. This will enable us to construct the
wall at the same time as the wing, while only constructing what we need now.
The second credit will likely go unnoticed by the congregation, but will save us thousands of dollars. The proposed
parking lot design calls for pervious concrete for some of the parking spaces. Pervious concrete allows water to infiltrate
the ground, instead of collecting into a storm sewer system, helping to replenish the groundwater while reducing down-
stream flooding. An admirable goal, right? The subcontractor who bid this part of the work suggested using pervious
asphalt instead of concrete, since it does the same job as concrete and the rest of the parking lot is asphalt anyway. If
you want to see pervious asphalt in action, drop by the high school on a rainy day; it’s installed in the new parking lot.
The one “Add” the Building Committee selected is one that I think the congregation will really appreciate. As you may
be aware, our HVAC is a two-pipe system with two boilers and a (very noisy) chiller. The Building Committee voted to
replace the two-pipe system in the existing church with individual heating and cooling units. This means that each zone
can truly operate independently of the others. So, if we needed it, we could turn the air conditioning on in the MMR or
the youth wing, while the classrooms remained in heating mode. Also, on those warm spring days or overcast fall days,
we’d be able to switch between heating and cooling mode as the indoor conditions called for it. Since we now depend
on 140-degree (or higher) water circulating through our two-pipe system to heat the church and water temperatures of 40
degrees to cool it, it takes much more than a flip of the switch to change from heating to cooling. Plus, maintaining
boilers, chillers, and air handler units is a specialty field; we can’t just call any heating and cooling company in the
phone book. With new individual units, we will be able to call just about anyone in the book. The new system will have
other benefits, too – the video tech team will be glad to hear the last of the noisy chiller, we won’t have to deal with
relocating our existing chiller to its new location, and we’ll be able to eliminate the chiller enclosure at the rear of the
church.
So, while the construction team is ready for the green light, we still have a few more steps to take. We’re still waiting to
hear back from the loan company, which we believe will be within the next few weeks. Once the loan is approved, we’ll
request approval from the Conference, although this should be a formality. Then, with the design in one hand and the
loan package in the other, we’ll be able to ask the congregation to vote on two issues: Is this the design plan you would
like to construct? And, if so, are you willing to undertake the financial responsibility to see it through? The Building
Committee hopes and prays that the answers to both of these questions will be “YES!”
Altar & Narthex Flowers are available on the following dates:
Narthex: March 5, 19 & 26
Altar & Narthex: April 9 23,
Altar & Narthex: May 14, 21 & 28
Please contact the Church Office for other dates throughout the year and
to reserve your date. Flower arrangements are $20.00 each.
Caring Criticism: Do you have a hard time giving or receiving criticism? Then join us for a book discussion of
“Caring Criticism: Building Bridges Instead of Walls” by William Diehm. In combining Christian love and biblical prin-
ciples with psychology, this book will help you deal with others' critical comments and help you break down walls of crit-
icism and build caring bridges that invite people to change without hurting them or making them angry. The class mem-
bers will take turns leading the book discussion. Although not required, it is strongly encouraged to have read “Speaking
the Truth in Love” by Koch and Haughk. If you have not and would like to attend this class, contact a leader to borrow a
copy to read. The group meets Monday nights from March 6-May 11 at 6:30pm in Room 211. Contact Lee Liermann
[email protected] or Amy Frey [email protected] for details and to sign up.
Thank you for all the birthday cards and get well wishes I have been receiving. I am blessed to have such a caring Church
Family and friends. With love, Ruth Kunkle
Welcome our Newest Members
Jeff & Marcia Bauman Roni Gumbert 603 Lynda Lane 531 Semple Drive N. Versailles, PA 15137 N. Huntingdon, PA 15642 Phone: 412-896-4192 Phone: 412-523-7367 Children: Landon & Liam
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
Capital Campaign UPDATE!
To date, our “Growing Together...Building in Faith” Capital Campaign has seen 232 cards returned for the total of $2,180,504. If you have not yet submitted a Commitment Card, please consider doing so. Cards are available at the
Church Welcome Centers or call the church office and we will mail one to you. The “Building in Faith” total given to date is $998,251.
Online Giving
If you'd prefer to give online, that option is available to you! On our website, www.CommunityUMChurch.com, go to the Resources menu and
choose Online Giving. There you'll find an easy and secure way to contribute your tithe or offering as well as your commitment to the Building Campaign.
“Growing Together, Building in Faith”
Milestone Just Ahead
As I write this, we have just completed the 14th month of our 36-month capital campaign “Growing Together, Building in
Faith”, dedicated to our planned expansion. To me, it seems as though it was not that long ago that we met at St Vincent
College to celebrate our sacrificial giving campaign. You may remember that there was much discussion about what sacri-
ficial giving is all about. It is apparent to us that this idea has hit home to all of us at CUMC. The idea of us listening to
God’s plan for how each of us can sacrifice and contribute financially to help ensure that our next generations will hear His
word is truly a privilege and honor.
During our sacrificial giving campaign and the subsequent months, the total amount that was promised equaled
$2,180,504. As a reminder, this amount is truly sacrificial as it represents gifts over and above our regular giving. If that
wasn’t enough for us to give a big Amen, our January 31 giving report shows that all of you have contributed $998,251.
As you read this, I suspect that we will have exceeded one million dollars raised. Praise God!!! This is because you have
felt God’s tug.
If you are blessed enough to offer financial gifts at this time, it would be very beneficial since every dollar that is given
now, equals one less dollar that we will need to borrow later. That equals less interest that we will need to pay on the loan.
If you have not been a part of this giving, we would encourage you to listen for God’s word to you. Maybe a sacrifice to
you would be $1. Maybe it is more. Maybe its prayers. What is God saying to you? We are truly humbled to be at this
point in the campaign and say that we are ahead of where we expected to be. THANK YOU!
Capital Campaign Follow Up Team
Melanie Barrett, Sarah Heller, Shirleen Johnson, Rob Liermann, Katie Morgan, Dwight Willaman
Ken & Rita Aber Drake & Beka Cooper
1049 Manor Vue Court 100 Cortina Drive
Delmont, PA 15626 Monroeville, PA 15146
Phone: 724-461-4170
Russ Fry Zack & Melissa King
249 E. Fairmont Avenue 1012 Dallas Court
Trafford, PA 15085 Irwin, PA 15642
Don & DJ Johnston Alicia Pease
11350 Larwin Lane PO Box 34
N. Huntingdon, PA 15642 Blairsville, PA 15717
Cindy Freeman
203 Mt. Pleasant Blvd.
Irwin, PA 15642
Remove
June Cipicchio - death
Elaine Shirey - death
Tony, Paula, Anna & Amanda DeLuise - withdrawal
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER DISTRIBUTION CHANGES
Due to ever rising cost of producing and mailing our monthly newsletters,
we would like you to consider the following options:
Option #1 If you attend regularly please consider the “Pick-up at Church” option. Please let the church office know you will pick a copy up at the Welcome Center and we will remove your name from the list.
Option #2 “Church Website” ~ Please let the church office know you will be reading the newsletter online and we will remove your name from the list.
Option #3 “Email Distribution” ~ Please provide email information to the church office and we will send your newsletter via email each month.
Option #4 If you no longer wish to receive our monthly Newsletter, please contact the church office so that we can remove your name from our list.
We have begun sending our Newsletter by email to those who have requested an email. Please let the church office know if you signed up for email but did not receive your Newsletter.
Receiving the newsletter by regular mail will still be available to those that do not have internet access. Please call or email the church office at [email protected].
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
Community’s Kids WORSHIP Erin Kerstetter – Director of Children’s Ministries
Let me ask you a question. Have you ever had “a week”? You know the
week I’m talking about. It’s not always a bad week, but by the time you
get to the weekend, you feel like you were a bystander in your own life?
You rushed through every event, detail, meal, practice, & meeting. But the
weekend came! You go to church for worship, sit down in your seat, and
let the music & praise time & sermon take over. The message that day
helps your entire week make sense because the pastor is speaking directly
to you (or so it feels). Closing your eyes in prayer, you feel the Holy Spirit
brush over you, leaving you refreshed. Your relationship with Him is right
again. You’re excited & invigorated, ready to tackle another crazy week, because you inhaled that heavenly breath of
Jesus! Do you know this feeling? I hope you do!
I’ve been trying to watch my kids lately. Really watch them. I don’t know about you but my kids are BUSY! They have a
lot to do throughout their week, and a lot that is expected of them. Some days they come in from school in a great mood,
and other days, I can see that they had a hard day. Those hard days might be from school work, a bad grade, a fight with
a friend, or just not enough sleep, and they are trying to just get through the motions of it all. Sound familiar? In some
ways, many kids have “those weeks” just like adults do, and I believe they should get their chance to feel God’s
presence, to know He still loves them and hasn’t left them alone, and to feel His Spirit brush over them. They need to be
refreshed and recharged in Him, too! Worship.
Community’s Kids Worship is a blend of elements from both the traditional & current adult worship services. We bring
the message on level a child can understand, but the Scripture and intentionality is the same. Our team uses interactive
games & activities to catch their attention. We play songs with motions that are from Vacation Bible School (both past
VBS & upcoming VBS) and we play songs you might recognize from K-LOVE. We use lights & sounds that captivate
them, and allow them to forget the things that might be trying to stop them from worshipping God. Our sermons come in
the form of short skits, character visits, or video & discussion. Kids are challenged & they are encouraged. And they
pray. Oh! Community’s Kids are prayer warriors, with faith beyond their few years! Our team works hard to give them
fresh & fun ways to know & better understand a relationship with Christ and what He expects from them.
Now think back to my question above. Have you ever had “a week”? Kids definitely have those weeks, too! You can’t
imagine what a blessing it is to watch a child worship on a Sunday morning, and actually see the craziness of their
everyday leave them. To watch them sing & dance for Jesus is exciting! To listen to them P.O.L (Pray Out Loud) is
humbling. You may not have seen them just yet, but Community’s Kids are POWERFUL praisers! And if you haven’t
seen them yet, you SHOULD! The invitation is extended, and you’re welcome to join Community’s Kids in worship!
You may find that much needed breath of Holy Spirit air to get you through the next week!
Community’s Kids Worship is on Sunday mornings during both the 10:45 & 11:00 adult services, in Fellowship Hall, for
kids who are 3 ½ (& potty trained) to 3rd grade. Students who are older are welcome to serve on our leadership team! To
find out more about how YOU can be a part of our Worship Team, contact Erin at 412-607-1863 or
Ash Wednesday
March 1
6:30 a.m. - Meditation & Imposition of Ashes
9:30 a.m. - United Methodist Women’s Ash Wednesday Service
12:00 p.m. - Meditation & Imposition of Ashes
7:00 p.m. - Ash Wednesday Worship Service
The River Prayer Service every Wednesday in Lent
March 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th & April 5th 6:30 P.M.
You are encouraged to make this a regular devotion
during this time of preparation for Holy Week and Easter at
Community Church.
Palm Sunday Weekend
Saturday - March 8th 6:00 PM
Sunday - March 9th 8:30 & 11 AM
Journey with Jesus
6:45 p.m. - Wednesday - April 12th
Maundy Thursday
Traditional Worship with Communion 7:00 PM
Good Friday
Good Friday Worship - 12PM
Community Service - 5:30 PM
Worship Opportunities Easter Weekend
Saturday - April 15th
6:00pm Current Easter, MMR
Sunday - April 16
8:00am Traditional Worship, Sanctuary (1/2 hour earlier)
9:30am Traditional Worship, Sanctuary (Added Service)
9:30am Children and Family Worship, MMR
10:45am Current Easter, MMR
11:00 am Traditional Worship, Sanctuary
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
Stephen Ministry Spotlight
Care for the Grieving
Stephen Ministry is a one to one care-giving ministry of Community Church. Stephen Ministry Care Givers
meet individually and confidentially with persons of the same gender going through a transition or difficult
time in life. Stephen Ministers receive over 50 hours of training, attend regular meetings for supervision and
have continuing education opportunities. Stephen Ministers use an array of tools to help people; listening,
praying, and scripture are some of those tools.
Another valuable source of healing can come in the form of a group. Community UMC organizes various
small groups throughout the year and one type of group is a care group. Care groups gather people together
who are experiencing a similar need. Our groups are not “gripe” sessions or “socials.” The care groups at
CUMC are centered on getting the participants better. Godly truth coupled with practical wisdom are the
cornerstones for the curriculum.
One of the Care Groups at Community Church is GriefShare. GriefShare is a friendly, caring group who will
help you to recover from your loss and look forward to rebuilding your life.
GriefShare leader Winnie Kruhm says, “I’ve learned that there is no “right” way to grieve but that grieving is a
very Christ-like thing to do and we don’t have to do it alone.” Winnie says, “GriefShare is a safe place- a place
where thoughts, feelings and emotions can be shared without fear of judgement. GriefShare is for anyone who
wants someone to walk alongside them during this difficult journey; someone who has already been there and
understands how devastating the loss can be. It’s for those who want to move forward in finding their ‘new
normal’.”
Stephen Minister and GriefShare leader Valerie Cosco became interested in GriefShare during the year after
her husband passed. She said “I was having a difficult period, and no other options were available at that
time. I preferred a one-on-one situation, but God had other plans! Not only has my involvement in
this organization provided practical ways to deal with my grief journey, but also wonderful friendships and
support I never would've known. However, the ultimate benefit has been the opportunity for me to share my
experiential journey in helping others through their pain.”
Another ministry that GriefShare offers is through their online emails. Individuals can sign up for free to
receive an encouraging email message every day for a year. These short messages will inspire you and provide
practical information as you grieve the loss of your loved one. When a loved one or friend dies, grieving that
loss can take a long time, but you are not alone. I have personally known of several individuals who have
received these emails and they have made a big difference in their life. To sign up for these emails go to:
https://www.griefshare.org/dailyemails.
Finally, in addition to the various books in my collection, many church members have found comfort in either
reading or sharing the booklets in the “Journeying Through Grief” series. This set of four booklets are mailed
to the grieving person on a scheduled basis over a year’s time. I have copies of these booklets in my office and
am happy to share them with you.
If you have questions about Stephen Ministry, the “Journeying Through Grief” booklets or other resources
available contact me, Elizabeth Somes at [email protected] or 724-744-3413 Ext. 204. If
you would like to learn more about GriefShare or join the next group beginning March 7 contact Winnie at
March 4, Upward Sports Basketball, end-of-season Celebration! All players & coaches will
be recognized, as season three comes to a close.
Preschool Winter JAM! Tuesday, March 14 from noon-2pm. Preschoolers will enjoy an interactive Bible Storytime,
crafts, sensory activities & more! This is a FREE ministry event! Please register at:
www.communityumchurch.com , found under the Kids tab (Community’s Kids). All kids must
be accompanied by a grown up! Contact Erin Kerstetter with questions at
Campership Sunday will be held on March 26 from 9:45-10:30 in the MMR. All kids &
their grown-ups are invited to discover what summer church camp is all about! There
is a camp for every age & interest at one of the UM camps: Jumonville, Camp
Allegheny, & Wesley Woods. Listen to Mr. Dennis Tawney, Director of Camp A,
share what all your child can & will experience this summer at church camp! CUMC
offers scholarships for all campers. Plan to attend this fun presentation with your child
to learn more!
‘A different beautiful’
Brenna Westlake, now 5, was born with a condition that makes her skin grow too fast, become thick and
inflexible, and look red and scaly. While managing Brenna’s complex care and helping her master
developmental milestones, her parents have made new discoveries about beauty.
“Sometimes the most beautiful things … come from the unexpected parts of life that encourage us to search
a little harder to find where the beauty lies — to put aside preconceived notions about what beautiful is and
what it isn’t,” writes Courtney Westlake in A Different Beautiful (Shiloh Run Press).
“There is a different beautiful than the perfection our culture often worships. That beautiful is found not
when we open our eyes but rather when we open our hearts. That different beautiful is found in the
uniqueness God has bestowed on every single one of us and the gifts he has placed within us to be shared
with the world.”
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
Welcoming Words
Praying for Others
As part of our staff leadership development, Pastor Rich Phipps has asked every staff member to read the book, “Partners
in Prayer” by John Maxwell. This oldie but goodie has been both a reminder of some basics I have known for years and
challenged me yet again to consider how to expand and deepen my prayer life.
In one chapter some points are given to improve how we pray for other people. The Bible says in the book of Job, “My
intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God; on behalf of a man he pleads with God as a man pleads for his
friend.” (Chapter 16 verses 20-21.) Intercessory prayer is the church-y word for praying for another person. Have you
ever been asked to pray for someone or something? Have you in passing ever said you would ‘be praying’? Do you ever
feel a loss for words when you are thinking of a friend, family-member or co-worker? Perhaps the praying points sug-
gested by Maxwell will be just what you need to intercede for them?
1. Pray that they will know God’s will for their lives – The apostle Paul said, “We have not stopped praying for you
and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding” Colos-
sians 1:9. Prayer is needed for individuals to know God’s will for their lives. We can be the praying people to help
others know God’s will.
2. Pray that they would do God’s will in their lives – Knowing and doing God’s will are two different things. I know
I shouldn’t eat sweets everyday but not doing it can be hard! Doing God’s will often requires courage, faith and
going against conventional thinking. Our specific prayers can be the invaluable source of encouragement someone
needs to take action to do God’s will.
3. Pray for productivity in their lives – Jesus said, “I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will
last.” (John 15:16) Productivity is not only in the daily goings on of life but for the eternal also. Pray for other’s
work and tasks to be worthwhile and valuable and to also have opportunities to influence others for a life with Jesus
Christ.
4. Pray for them to have a growing relationship with God – Everything in life is hinged on our relationship with
God. No one ever ‘arrives’ at a place or time in life when they know it all. As you pray for others, pray that they
will continue to grow in their relationship with our Lord Jesus – no matter how old or young; connected or not to the
church.
5. Pray for Power in their lives – Holy Spirit power is our source of effective living. We can pray for people to be
strengthened and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
6. Pray for them to have the right attitude – Recently, my teenage daughter heard this, “having a bad attitude is like
having a flat tire; if you have one you ain’t going anywhere.” Our attitude impacts every aspect of our life including
physical, mental and spiritual health. All the opportunities, education, accolades, money, friends, etc. will not mean
anything if your attitude is bad. Fortunately, one’s attitude can be changed so, we can and should pray specifically
and fervently for the individual to have the ‘joy of the Lord’ (Nehemiah 8:10).
Has there ever been a time in your life you felt strongly you should be praying for someone – a friend, a spouse, a child, a
co-worker? Did someone ever come to mind ‘out of the blue’? I believe these are God’s nudgings inviting you to pray
for that person. Next time, use the pointers above to pray for them. Prayer changes others.
Please indicate the number of each plant to be ordered below.
____Easter Lilies _____Hyacinths _____Tulips _____Daffodils _____Hydrangea
$8.00 ea. $6.50 ea. $6.50 ea. $6.50 ea. $12.00 ea.
Please make checks payable to: CUMC FLOWER FUND. No orders accepted without payment.
Place payment with order form in the offering plate or leave in the church office.
NO orders taken after Sunday, March 27th
Please print all information:
Given by:___________________________________________________________________
In Memory of:_______________________________________________________________
In Honor of:_________________________________________________________________
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED:______________
Deaths
We extend our Christian love and sympathy to the following families who have recently lost loved ones:
Rob and Cherie O’Neal & Family on the death of Rob’s mother, Marlene O’Neal
Family & Friends of Tiffany Portser
George and Auddie Hayes & Family on the passing of George’s mother, Helen Hayes
Shirleen and Larry Johnston & Joyce Casper and Families on the death of their brother, Jim Nixon
Carl Shirey & Family on the passing of Carl’s wife Elaine Shirey
Baptism
Congratulations to Dan and Erin D’Andries on the baptism of their daughter Isabella Mae
EASTER FLOWERS 2017
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
WOMEN’S RETREAT - April 21-23, 2017
Join us for… “Lack or Luster: Standing Strong on God’s Promises When You’d
Like to Cry, Cower and Compare”. This year’s retreat at Jumonville Camp and
Retreat Center, Hopwood, PA will be held April 21-23 and is meant for revitalizing and
renewing women. The cost for lodging and meals is $100. For questions, please contact
Melissa Conte at 724-744-0008 or email [email protected]. Register on line at
www.communityumchurch.com or by completing the form below.
The speaker for the weekend is Anna Frye, the author of “Extraordinary You”, a speaker to women’s groups,
retreats, conferences and events. She is a co-host on Cornerstone Television Network’s Real Life program
and is the host of CTVN’s weekly program, Mom Talk. She serves the local church as a MOPS mentor and
children’s ministry leader. You can visit Anna’s website at www.ChosenAndCrowned.com for her blog and
samples of her teachings.
Lenten
Lunches & Dinners
Every Friday, March 3rd through April 7th
Lunch: 11:00 ~ 4:00 p.m. One price: $7.50
Menu: Fish Sandwich and Fries
(Take Out Orders For Lunch ONLY Call: 724-744-7072)
Dinner: 4:00 ~ 7:30 p.m. Adults: $10.00 Children (under 12): $6.00
Dinner Menu Includes:
Entrée, 1 Hot Side, 1 Cold Side, Dessert, Drink
(coffee, iced tea or lemonade)
(pop & bottled water sold separately)
Entrées: Hot Sides: Cold Sides:
Battered Fried Fish Fresh-cut Fries Coleslaw
Baked Fish Haluski Applesauce
Crab Cake Macaroni & Cheese Tossed Salad
Chicken Pierogies (3)
Pierogies (6) Green Beans
Name_________________________ Address _________________________________________
Phone ________________________ Email _________________________________
Age Range:
20-40 ___ 41-60 ___ 61+ ___ Marital Status: ____ T-Shirt size: _____ (Incl. in reg. fee)
Attend CUMC? Y___ N___
Emergency Contact: Name ________________________ Phone#_______________________
Food allergies or dietary needs: ____________________________
Health concerns that would prohibit your involvement in activities: _____________________________
Several alternative activities are being discussed that may require additional fees at the camp.
We’ll keep you updated on these!
We have a painter coming to teach us how to paint a canvas for our homes. This requires pre-registration:
Registration Fee $100 Canvas painting project $_____ ($12 additional fee) TOTAL $______
Return this form, along with your payment payable to:
Community UM Church
Please Note “Women’s Retreat”
CUMC WOMEN’S RETREAT
REGISTRATION FORM
Please register by April 1, 2017
Community Connection March 9 Community Connection March 12
