Together in Christ - letters from Bishop Devadhar
You can also read past letters here.
Monday, December 3, 2012
New Newsletter and Sermon Online
Read:
The Latest Edition of Tidings, our newsletter. As always, lots going on.
Listen:
Sermons, including "A Friend in Jesus" from November 25, 2012
If you are seeing this on Facebook and could take the extra step and click 'Like' it makes it more likely that others will see it as Facebook doesn't consistently display posts without activity.
The Latest Edition of Tidings, our newsletter. As always, lots going on.
Listen:
Sermons, including "A Friend in Jesus" from November 25, 2012
If you are seeing this on Facebook and could take the extra step and click 'Like' it makes it more likely that others will see it as Facebook doesn't consistently display posts without activity.
Friday, November 30, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 11/28/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Saturday, November 24, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 11/20/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Thursday, November 1, 2012
PROFILE FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY
In preparation for our Sunday, Dec. 9 Charge Conference, the Staff Parish Relations Committee
requests that you please answer some questions. Your answers will help us evaluate our past efforts and better plan for future growth.
Survey Forms may be found on the church website, and in the Memorial Room at Church.
Please submit all forms to the church office by mail or by placing in the collection plate on Sundays.
Thank you in advance for your participation in this important process.
requests that you please answer some questions. Your answers will help us evaluate our past efforts and better plan for future growth.
Survey Forms may be found on the church website, and in the Memorial Room at Church.
Please submit all forms to the church office by mail or by placing in the collection plate on Sundays.
Thank you in advance for your participation in this important process.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
A message from Bishop Devadhar regarding the storm
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I am sure that these last few days have bought moments of anxiety, concern, pain, and sorrow as you have watched “post-tropical” superstorm Sandy make its way through many parts of the Eastern seaboard and other places affecting the lives of countless numbers of people.
There were different effects in different areas of the New England Conference. Loss of electricity has been widespread, and many areas have yet to have power restored. To date only a few reports of damage to New England Annual Conference churches have been received. Most local church damage has been related to the intense winds (a toppled steeple, a tree falling on a sanctuary) and has not been catastrophic.
I am calling upon all of us to continue to be in prayer with those in Southern New England and in the mid-Atlantic region where damage in some areas has been devastating. Parts of Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey report significant damage and a number of deaths and injuries. Areas in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and the Mid-West continue to feel the power of this storm.
In the same way that the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) responded and provided financial assistance in a number of disasters in New England in recent years, they are here for us again. May we encourage you to be in prayer for the important ministry they are doing to reach out to the victims of Sandy and other disasters and kindly continue to support their ministries through your generous financial support. If you want to explore how to support UMCOR, kindly visit the New England Annual Conference website at www.neumc.org/hurricane.
Starting last week, we (NEAC) communicated information on disaster preparedness from UMCOR and our insurance companies, so our congregations and members could be as prepared as possible for the severe storm. We have continued to provide information for insurance and other reporting. Please do not hesitate to contact your District Superintendent or Jim McPhee or Bill Burnside at the New England Annual Conference if you need guidance or help in any matters related to the aftermath of the storm.
In moments like this and as we continue to raise all kinds of existential questions about why and how, may we offer our prayers to our Creator God, using the words of the Psalmist, who said, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult." (Psalm 46:1-3).
May the words of the Psalmist offer hope to all who are affected by this storm in one way or another. May all the efforts of God's children everywhere, reaching out to those who need help, be blessed by our Creator God as we carry out our own ministries with the compassion of Christ and with the real peace and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
May this be the time, not only to pray for all the children of God who have been affected by Sandy, but also to place the words of our prayers in action through our Christian witness and outreach by our acts of mercy and kindness.
With prayers and love,
Bishop Suda Devadhar
Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I am sure that these last few days have bought moments of anxiety, concern, pain, and sorrow as you have watched “post-tropical” superstorm Sandy make its way through many parts of the Eastern seaboard and other places affecting the lives of countless numbers of people.
There were different effects in different areas of the New England Conference. Loss of electricity has been widespread, and many areas have yet to have power restored. To date only a few reports of damage to New England Annual Conference churches have been received. Most local church damage has been related to the intense winds (a toppled steeple, a tree falling on a sanctuary) and has not been catastrophic.
I am calling upon all of us to continue to be in prayer with those in Southern New England and in the mid-Atlantic region where damage in some areas has been devastating. Parts of Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey report significant damage and a number of deaths and injuries. Areas in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and the Mid-West continue to feel the power of this storm.
In the same way that the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) responded and provided financial assistance in a number of disasters in New England in recent years, they are here for us again. May we encourage you to be in prayer for the important ministry they are doing to reach out to the victims of Sandy and other disasters and kindly continue to support their ministries through your generous financial support. If you want to explore how to support UMCOR, kindly visit the New England Annual Conference website at www.neumc.org/hurricane.
Starting last week, we (NEAC) communicated information on disaster preparedness from UMCOR and our insurance companies, so our congregations and members could be as prepared as possible for the severe storm. We have continued to provide information for insurance and other reporting. Please do not hesitate to contact your District Superintendent or Jim McPhee or Bill Burnside at the New England Annual Conference if you need guidance or help in any matters related to the aftermath of the storm.
In moments like this and as we continue to raise all kinds of existential questions about why and how, may we offer our prayers to our Creator God, using the words of the Psalmist, who said, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult." (Psalm 46:1-3).
May the words of the Psalmist offer hope to all who are affected by this storm in one way or another. May all the efforts of God's children everywhere, reaching out to those who need help, be blessed by our Creator God as we carry out our own ministries with the compassion of Christ and with the real peace and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
May this be the time, not only to pray for all the children of God who have been affected by Sandy, but also to place the words of our prayers in action through our Christian witness and outreach by our acts of mercy and kindness.
With prayers and love,
Bishop Suda Devadhar
Hurricane Help
UMCOR spends 100 percent of designated donations on the projects our donors specify. When UMCOR donors give their time, money, and supplies, they join UMCOR as the hands and feet of Christ.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
MACC
MACC FOOD PANTRY—
current shopping list:
- Cereal
- Canned meats (tuna, chicken, ham & beef stew)
- Peanut butter
- Pasta & sauce
- Canned veggies/fruits
- Soup
- Healthy snacks for children
- Condiments (mustard, ketchup, mayo, salad dressing etc.)
- Toilet tissue
- Paper towel
- Diapers
- Laundry detergent
- Feminine products
- Toothpaste
- Tooth brushes
- Soap
- Dish soap
- We always need paper and plastic grocery bags, clean plastic bottles with tight fitting lids, freezer bags and egg cartons.
Donations can be placed in the shopping cart in the NUMC Narthex or on the floor near it if it is full. Another great option is to buy a SCRIP card and give it to Marlene and let her do the shopping for you. This way you help NUMC through the SCRIP free money and MACC gets more on its shelves.
SCRIP
SCRIP is NUMC’s on-going fundraiser in which all are welcome and
encouraged to participate every week!
If everyone were to participate by simply purchasing store cards for their weekly grocery budget—the church would benefit greatly with
Not to mention other regular purchases—gas, drug stores, restaurants, fast food, etc.
Thank you so much to everyone who continues to make their routine purchases through NUMC.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIME IS UPON US—place your orders and check out the current participating vendors. Direct questions to: Anita Haynes 860-712-9991
If everyone were to participate by simply purchasing store cards for their weekly grocery budget—the church would benefit greatly with
NO additional cost to you.
Not to mention other regular purchases—gas, drug stores, restaurants, fast food, etc.
Thank you so much to everyone who continues to make their routine purchases through NUMC.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIME IS UPON US—place your orders and check out the current participating vendors. Direct questions to: Anita Haynes 860-712-9991
GIVE Gift Cards and/or
USE Gift Cards for routine purchases!
100% Participation in SCRIPS is the goal!
Monday, October 29, 2012
November Tidings Available
The November Issue of Tidings, our monthly newsletter, is now available on our website.
Be sure to fill out the SPRC survey as well.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Hurricane - Prepare
The New England Conference of The United Methodist Church has assembled some resources to help with preparedness for hurricane Sandy, particularly for churches.
For the full article follow this link: http://www.neumc.org/news/detail/743
Thursday, October 25, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 10/24/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Monday, October 15, 2012
Join us in walking or in spirit this Sunday as we walk this Sunday in the CROP HUNGER WALK.
CROP Hunger Walker - Walk to help end hunger in your community and around the world.
CROP Spirit Walker - Can't be there for our Walk? Be there in spirit - you can gather contributions and help fight hunger and poverty!
DONATE - Give from your heart to fight hunger and show your support for our team of walkers.
If the links don't take you to just the right place to easily do what you would like, if you go up to the menu item "Your Walk Details" and select "2012 Online Teams" you will see North United Methodist Church clearly listed with links to Join Us or Donate.
One child dies from hunger-related causes every 5 seconds. In the U.S., more than 43 million Americans don't have enough to eat. Please help as you are able to bring us closer to ending hunger.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 10/3/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Tag Sale/Bake Sale
TAG SALE/BAKE SALE * SATURDAY, OCT. 13th
Bake Sale
Friday, Oct. 12: 9 am – 12 pm, 1 – 4 pm, 6 – 8 pm
Saturday, Oct. 13: 7 am – 8 am
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
World Potluck
The ALL CHURCH POTLUCK will be held on
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7th
directly following the 10 am service. This is our celebration of World Communion Sunday so please bring something that represents your culture to demonstrate the diversity of the Christian church. An explanation of its cultural significance would be most welcome to broaden all of our minds and a list of ingredients would be much appreciated to make it clear what is safe to eat for those with food allergies. Cards will be provided to write the ingredients of your dishes if you have not written them out ahead of time.
* After the potluck, help would be appreciated to bring the tag sale items from downstairs up to the sanctuary. Thank you!
* After the potluck, help would be appreciated to bring the tag sale items from downstairs up to the sanctuary. Thank you!
Monday, October 1, 2012
October Tidings
The October issue of Tidings, our monthly newsletter is available now on our website. Check out all the news and happenings.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 9/19/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Pray In The Spirit
All of NUMC will be saying a special prayer for this congregation during the next three months. Please say the following prayer as you pray along with others in the congregation. There is power in prayer and in numbers. For background on this prayer please read Jeremiah 39:1-14.
Generous and ever-loving God, you have made for us a world that is teeming with every good thing. You have already provided for all of our needs and you know what we need even before we are aware of it. Remind us that as the people of God, we are your priority. Let us make you our priority. Remind us too that we are limited and therefore do not always see with your sight or know with your knowledge. Although we have not always trusted you in the past, you still surprise us with your grace. Forgive us for not trusting you, and inspire us to go forward into the future, trusting you for all our needs supplied in abundance so that we may share generously with others. This we pray in the name of Jesus of Nazareth your Son and our example.
Amen.
Special Music
SUNDAY, September 23 at 5:00 pm
NUMC former member and friend Everett Barber will lead a sing-along.
Please plan to join with family and friends for a musical evening of fellowship. Light refreshments will be available.
A sign up sheet is available in the Memorial Room.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 9/5/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Letter From the New Bishop
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:
I greet you all in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I thank our Creator God, using the words of the Psalmist who said, "Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness" (Psalm 115:1). God's steadfast love and faithfulness have allowed me to be a servant leader among God’s people in the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference in the last eight years, and now that same love and faithfulness of God has brought me among you to be your servant leader! I am truly humbled to be in your midst, and take it as a great privilege to follow the great Episcopal leaders with whom you have been blessed in your Christian journey.
Bishop Peter Weaver, in his last letter to you, quoted words from St. Paul in his letter in II Corinthians 13:13 as paraphrased from Eugene Peterson, in The Message: "The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all."
As we start our ministry together with one another, may we pray this prayer every day and may we strive to live out this prayer through our words, actions, and deeds.
I hope to meet and converse with as many of you as possible, as soon as possible, so that we together may discern God's will and plans for our faith journey and so that we may do our best in making disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world and become a stronger United Methodist presence in our communities, nation, and world. May we make every effort to join one another to claim our vision of the New England Annual Conference: "Transformed by the Holy Spirit, united in trust, we will we boldly proclaim Christ to the world" and make it a reality and let it become a movement in the New England Conference and beyond!
My wife Prema and I are already touched by your warmth and love. We have been serenaded with calls, emails, text messages, home-cooked meals, cards, notes, gifts, flowers, and vegetables. We have been touched by the dedication and hard work of the leaders in making the Episcopal residence ready! While we appreciate all of this with our deepest thanks, we had one more great surprise on Sunday when we attended one of the United Methodist churches. The pastor of the church not only invited me to celebrate with her at the Lord's table but also at the end of the worship service invited Prema and me to come forward and kneel at the altar so that she and others could pray for us laying hands upon us. It really meant a lot to us.
Friends, will you kindly pray, pray, pray, not only for the Bishop and his family, but for each and every one of us so that our faith journey could be truly blessed by God and all of us, along with our communities of faith, may blossom together for the glory of God, as faithful and powerful disciples of Jesus Christ, filled with the power of the Holy Spirit.
Remember, God loves you, and so do I!
In Christ's love,
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar
I greet you all in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I thank our Creator God, using the words of the Psalmist who said, "Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness" (Psalm 115:1). God's steadfast love and faithfulness have allowed me to be a servant leader among God’s people in the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference in the last eight years, and now that same love and faithfulness of God has brought me among you to be your servant leader! I am truly humbled to be in your midst, and take it as a great privilege to follow the great Episcopal leaders with whom you have been blessed in your Christian journey.
Bishop Peter Weaver, in his last letter to you, quoted words from St. Paul in his letter in II Corinthians 13:13 as paraphrased from Eugene Peterson, in The Message: "The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all."
As we start our ministry together with one another, may we pray this prayer every day and may we strive to live out this prayer through our words, actions, and deeds.
I hope to meet and converse with as many of you as possible, as soon as possible, so that we together may discern God's will and plans for our faith journey and so that we may do our best in making disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world and become a stronger United Methodist presence in our communities, nation, and world. May we make every effort to join one another to claim our vision of the New England Annual Conference: "Transformed by the Holy Spirit, united in trust, we will we boldly proclaim Christ to the world" and make it a reality and let it become a movement in the New England Conference and beyond!
My wife Prema and I are already touched by your warmth and love. We have been serenaded with calls, emails, text messages, home-cooked meals, cards, notes, gifts, flowers, and vegetables. We have been touched by the dedication and hard work of the leaders in making the Episcopal residence ready! While we appreciate all of this with our deepest thanks, we had one more great surprise on Sunday when we attended one of the United Methodist churches. The pastor of the church not only invited me to celebrate with her at the Lord's table but also at the end of the worship service invited Prema and me to come forward and kneel at the altar so that she and others could pray for us laying hands upon us. It really meant a lot to us.
Friends, will you kindly pray, pray, pray, not only for the Bishop and his family, but for each and every one of us so that our faith journey could be truly blessed by God and all of us, along with our communities of faith, may blossom together for the glory of God, as faithful and powerful disciples of Jesus Christ, filled with the power of the Holy Spirit.
Remember, God loves you, and so do I!
In Christ's love,
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Correction
Potluck Fellowship - date correction:
Sunday, September 30th is the Potluck date.
Please help to spread the word about the misprint in the Sunday Announcements and Tidings.
Sunday, September 30th is the Potluck date.
Please help to spread the word about the misprint in the Sunday Announcements and Tidings.
Healing
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8th
HEALING
Prayer Vigil
at
NUMC
7:00 am - 10:00 am
All are welcome to attend for any part of the 3 hour time.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
September Tidings
The September Issue of Tidings, our Monthly Newsletter, Is Now Available Online on Our Website.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 8/29/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
You can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Sunday, August 26, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 8/22/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Thursday, August 2, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 8/1/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Thursday, July 5, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 7/5/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Summer Edition of Tidings
The summer edition of Tidings, our monthly newsletter, is now available online for your enjoyment and illumination. The next issue of Tidings will be September, so make sure you get your articles and updates in by August 15th so that they are sure to be included.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Did Paul say "women should say nothing" really?
Hear our latest sermon on being generous from this past Sunday. Other past sermons are also available.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
New Sermon Up
Last week's sermon failed to record, but we have the one from the week before and it is now available online with the others. Hear our lay leader give us, "Shrubs, Not Trees."
Thursday, June 21, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 6/20/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Thursday, May 31, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 5/30/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
In The Spirit
The sermon from this past Sunday is now available for you to listen to on our website.
Letter from the Pastor’s Desk
Dear NUMC,
On the last Sunday in May 2012 we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, which recalls the coming of the Holy Spirit on Christ’s followers who remained in Jerusalem after his ascension to heaven (where God dwells). This visitation of the Holy Spirit brought a mighty power to the Body of Christ that enables them to continue the marvelous work that they had experienced during Jesus’ ministry on earth. This past April the United Methodist Church’s nine hundred plus delegates from around the world met in Tampa Florida to discuss and make decisions about the mission and business of the church for the next four years and beyond. It was a Spirit-filled time, most of the time.
I quote Bishop Peter Weaver, our bishop, who delivered the Episcopal address on behalf of the Council of Bishops to the Conference, on the naming of Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay was first named by the Spanish who visited in the 15th Century, “Bahia Del Espiritu Santo” or The Bay of the Holy Spirit. While not everything was accomplished in Tampa that many of us had hoped, we nevertheless had some Holy Spirit moments—times when we felt that the Holy Spirit was present. My constant prayer is that we open up our hearts so that the Holy Spirit can do its powerful work in us and through us. When we realize and begin to live the truth that we cannot live this life to ourselves and that we need God, the Triune God in our lives, then wonderful, powerful things happen. We need God as Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer in our lives, as Parent, Sibling and Holy Spirit.
When I decided to share with this congregation the fact that I was one of nearly two hundred clergy in the New England Annual Conference to have signed a declaration that we would minister to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, Queer and Other persons (LGBTQO) in our congregations including offering a blessing for their relationships, and in states where these members are allowed to marry, performing such ceremonies, it was a part of my commentary on the reality that the church is divided on this issue. It seemed like an appropriate time to let the congregation know where I stood and that my stance is an open stance, not a closed one; meaning that I am willing to discuss the issue with anyone in a respectful and dignified manner, in a Christian manner, with love. What concerns me about this issue is that it has threatened to divide the church for the past thirty years. But whereas discussion of the issue started in an extreme manner, with persons on both sides digging in their heels and not budging an inch and being extremely disparaging and dismissive of each other, I have seen some progress in terms of people at least being willing to listen to each other and to speak to each other in love. It does not mean necessarily that individuals have changed their minds, but it does mean that people on both sides are willing to listen to each other. That is a first step.
I do not believe that this issue will cause a split in the church. Some people will leave, yes, but the stakes are too high for the church to disintegrate and God’s church will go on anyway, with or without us. We make the decision about whether we will be a part of the unfolding of God’s creation or not. The choice is ours. We can walk away in anger about this or any other issue, or we can stay and with faith in God and the power of the Holy Spirit to move among us, see what God is calling us to do now. At this time. We are called for just such a time as this.
God who does not change, but who is far beyond anything that we can ever imagine, is always surprising us and nothing in creation is static. If it is, it is dead. Life means change. Can you think of a time when you were convinced that you were right about something, later to find out that you were wrong? That has happened to me so much that I got tired of being wrong and limited, and decided instead to open my mind to the intricate number of possibilities that exist. God is infinity and our words to describe God are really feeble attempts to describe the indescribable.
Recall that at one time the world was thought to be flat and those who suggested otherwise were punished, some as severely as having to give up their lives for their beliefs. Then some brave sailors sailed and did not fall off the face of the earth. At one time, space travel was thought to be impossible, yet in the sixteenth century there were those who were already imagining space flight. Now space flight is a reality. Or think of the time when communication with someone in another country meant waiting for a letter to take weeks to reach its destination and its reader. Today, we pick up a telephone no longer tied to a line and speak to someone in another country with only a few seconds’ delay, the time it takes for a signal to go from our instrument to a satellite and then to another instrument.
Truth is, we don’t know everything there is to know—about anything. God is constantly revealing Godself and we are constantly gaining knowledge, each and every moment about all the things there are in this complex universe, including what there is to know about human sexuality. We know some things. We do not know everything. Let us remain open to expanding knowledge of God and God’s creation.
So since we do not know everything, the sensible response to what we do not know is not to hate it or condemn it, but to be open to learning about it; to accept that we are ourselves limited and to ask the Holy Spirit which knows everything to reveal to us what we do not know. To approach life any other way is to be arrogant. That does not work because we are by definition, limited. The way to approach our differences and our problems is to ask the Holy Spirit for the power of wisdom and discernment and then proceed with care and with love. It is the only way, or as Paul said, the more excellent way. Love casts out fear.
Blessings,
Pastor Laurel
On the last Sunday in May 2012 we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, which recalls the coming of the Holy Spirit on Christ’s followers who remained in Jerusalem after his ascension to heaven (where God dwells). This visitation of the Holy Spirit brought a mighty power to the Body of Christ that enables them to continue the marvelous work that they had experienced during Jesus’ ministry on earth. This past April the United Methodist Church’s nine hundred plus delegates from around the world met in Tampa Florida to discuss and make decisions about the mission and business of the church for the next four years and beyond. It was a Spirit-filled time, most of the time.
I quote Bishop Peter Weaver, our bishop, who delivered the Episcopal address on behalf of the Council of Bishops to the Conference, on the naming of Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay was first named by the Spanish who visited in the 15th Century, “Bahia Del Espiritu Santo” or The Bay of the Holy Spirit. While not everything was accomplished in Tampa that many of us had hoped, we nevertheless had some Holy Spirit moments—times when we felt that the Holy Spirit was present. My constant prayer is that we open up our hearts so that the Holy Spirit can do its powerful work in us and through us. When we realize and begin to live the truth that we cannot live this life to ourselves and that we need God, the Triune God in our lives, then wonderful, powerful things happen. We need God as Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer in our lives, as Parent, Sibling and Holy Spirit.
When I decided to share with this congregation the fact that I was one of nearly two hundred clergy in the New England Annual Conference to have signed a declaration that we would minister to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, Queer and Other persons (LGBTQO) in our congregations including offering a blessing for their relationships, and in states where these members are allowed to marry, performing such ceremonies, it was a part of my commentary on the reality that the church is divided on this issue. It seemed like an appropriate time to let the congregation know where I stood and that my stance is an open stance, not a closed one; meaning that I am willing to discuss the issue with anyone in a respectful and dignified manner, in a Christian manner, with love. What concerns me about this issue is that it has threatened to divide the church for the past thirty years. But whereas discussion of the issue started in an extreme manner, with persons on both sides digging in their heels and not budging an inch and being extremely disparaging and dismissive of each other, I have seen some progress in terms of people at least being willing to listen to each other and to speak to each other in love. It does not mean necessarily that individuals have changed their minds, but it does mean that people on both sides are willing to listen to each other. That is a first step.
I do not believe that this issue will cause a split in the church. Some people will leave, yes, but the stakes are too high for the church to disintegrate and God’s church will go on anyway, with or without us. We make the decision about whether we will be a part of the unfolding of God’s creation or not. The choice is ours. We can walk away in anger about this or any other issue, or we can stay and with faith in God and the power of the Holy Spirit to move among us, see what God is calling us to do now. At this time. We are called for just such a time as this.
God who does not change, but who is far beyond anything that we can ever imagine, is always surprising us and nothing in creation is static. If it is, it is dead. Life means change. Can you think of a time when you were convinced that you were right about something, later to find out that you were wrong? That has happened to me so much that I got tired of being wrong and limited, and decided instead to open my mind to the intricate number of possibilities that exist. God is infinity and our words to describe God are really feeble attempts to describe the indescribable.
Recall that at one time the world was thought to be flat and those who suggested otherwise were punished, some as severely as having to give up their lives for their beliefs. Then some brave sailors sailed and did not fall off the face of the earth. At one time, space travel was thought to be impossible, yet in the sixteenth century there were those who were already imagining space flight. Now space flight is a reality. Or think of the time when communication with someone in another country meant waiting for a letter to take weeks to reach its destination and its reader. Today, we pick up a telephone no longer tied to a line and speak to someone in another country with only a few seconds’ delay, the time it takes for a signal to go from our instrument to a satellite and then to another instrument.
Truth is, we don’t know everything there is to know—about anything. God is constantly revealing Godself and we are constantly gaining knowledge, each and every moment about all the things there are in this complex universe, including what there is to know about human sexuality. We know some things. We do not know everything. Let us remain open to expanding knowledge of God and God’s creation.
So since we do not know everything, the sensible response to what we do not know is not to hate it or condemn it, but to be open to learning about it; to accept that we are ourselves limited and to ask the Holy Spirit which knows everything to reveal to us what we do not know. To approach life any other way is to be arrogant. That does not work because we are by definition, limited. The way to approach our differences and our problems is to ask the Holy Spirit for the power of wisdom and discernment and then proceed with care and with love. It is the only way, or as Paul said, the more excellent way. Love casts out fear.
Blessings,
Pastor Laurel
New Newsletter Available
The June issue of Tidings, our monthly newsletter, is available on our website for your education and enjoyment. The next issue will be a combined July/August newsletter. Be sure to submit by the 15th of June any articles or information that needs to be in this edition.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
New Sermon Up - Listen for the spontaneous applause
Listen online to our latest sermon. You might also be interested to read this from last year as it seems on topic.
Friday, May 18, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 5/16/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Friday, May 11, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 5/7/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Friday, May 4, 2012
Spring Movie Night
MOVIE NIGHT - Saturday, May 12th at 6:30 pm
Take Mom to the movies for Mother’s Day—heck, bring everyone!
Come join in the fun, laughter, adventure, popcorn, drinks,
and fellowship of our Spring movie night.
"TANGLED" - one of the funniest, most hair-raising tales ever told.
When the kingdom's most infamous - and charismatic - outlaw, Flynn Rider (voiced by Zachary Levi), takes refuge in a secret tower hidden deep in the forest, he's taken captive by Rapunzel (voiced by Mandy Moore), a striking and spirited teen blessed with 70 feet of enchanted, golden blonde hair. Having been looking for an escape route from the tower where she's been grounded her whole life, Rapunzel makes a pact with the handsome thief and the improbable duo soon find themselves tangled up in a spectacular action-packed escapade, complete with a super-sleuth horse, a chameleon side-kick and a rowdy gang of pub thugs.
Featuring unexpected heroes, calculating villains, laughter, action and hair - lots of hair - Disney's Tangled is a comedy adventure for the whole family.
Stamp Out Hunger
Good Morning Congregations of MACC Member Churches-
This is a reminder that the national campaign of “Stamp Out Hunger” is coming up on May 12th. Postal Workers will collect canned food which has been bagged and placed by a mailbox to then donate to local pantry that day (we happen to be one of those local pantries). Here is the link to the online information: http://www.helpstampouthunger.com/ . This is a simple drive that can have long-lasting effects if people are aware of the opportunity. Food drives like this one keep our shelves stocked and families fed- we thank you in advance for your involvement, please contact us with any questions.
Kindly,
Nathan Oldham
Community Engagement Coordinator for MACC Charities
Call or Message 860-942-4549
This is a reminder that the national campaign of “Stamp Out Hunger” is coming up on May 12th. Postal Workers will collect canned food which has been bagged and placed by a mailbox to then donate to local pantry that day (we happen to be one of those local pantries). Here is the link to the online information: http://www.helpstampouthunger.com/ . This is a simple drive that can have long-lasting effects if people are aware of the opportunity. Food drives like this one keep our shelves stocked and families fed- we thank you in advance for your involvement, please contact us with any questions.
Kindly,
Nathan Oldham
Community Engagement Coordinator for MACC Charities
Call or Message 860-942-4549
Thursday, May 3, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 5/2/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
MACC Needs
MACC can feed an average family of 4-6 for about $11 a week. The reason we can
stretch our dollars that far is because of food and financial donations and the countless
volunteers that receive, sort, stock and help distribute the food each week.
This time of year is always a challenge – it is not far from the holidays, usage is up due to the
school vacations (child home and childcare costs are up in addition to more in the household
longer periods of the day), not to mention fixed incomes and higher prices of gasoline… it all
effects the household budget and people do not have many other areas they can cut back so
the food budget tends to take the hardest hit.
Your support reassures me that you remember people are hungry year round. Homelessness
does not take a holiday and advocating for the needs of others never rests. Your gift is
needed and never taken for granted.
Someone’s life will get better because you care and choose to help.
Shopping list:
Please call Dale Doll, Program Director for Food Services 860.288.4251
Opportunities to serve:
Please call Nathan Oldham, Community Engagement Coordinator 860. 942.4549
Thank you for helping. It really does take a community.
Beth Stafford
Executive Director/CEO
stretch our dollars that far is because of food and financial donations and the countless
volunteers that receive, sort, stock and help distribute the food each week.
This time of year is always a challenge – it is not far from the holidays, usage is up due to the
school vacations (child home and childcare costs are up in addition to more in the household
longer periods of the day), not to mention fixed incomes and higher prices of gasoline… it all
effects the household budget and people do not have many other areas they can cut back so
the food budget tends to take the hardest hit.
Your support reassures me that you remember people are hungry year round. Homelessness
does not take a holiday and advocating for the needs of others never rests. Your gift is
needed and never taken for granted.
Someone’s life will get better because you care and choose to help.
Shopping list:
- Cereal
- Canned meats (tuna, chicken, ham & beef stew)
- Peanut butter
- Pasta & sauce
- Canned veggies & fruits
- Soup
- Healthy snacks for children
- Condiments (mustard, ketchup, mayo, salad dressing etc.)
- Toilet tissue
- Paper towel
- Diapers
- Laundry detergent
- Feminine products
- Toothpaste
- Tooth brushes
- Soap
- Dish soap
- We always need paper and plastic grocery bags, clean plastic bottles with tight fitting lids, freezer bags and egg cartons.
Please call Dale Doll, Program Director for Food Services 860.288.4251
Opportunities to serve:
Please call Nathan Oldham, Community Engagement Coordinator 860. 942.4549
Thank you for helping. It really does take a community.
Beth Stafford
Executive Director/CEO
Communion Breakfast this Sunday the 6th
On Sunday May 6, 2012, North United Methodist Church will host a tradition that is called “A Communion Breakfast”. I have tried to research this tradition to uncover its meaning and have come up with the understanding that this is one of the various expressions of a holy meal adopted by this congregation. There are several bases for this meal.
First, during his ministry, Jesus often gathered his disciples around a meal after opening the scriptures to them. When he shared the Last Supper with his disciples, it was in celebration of the Feast of the Passover, which recalls God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus fed five thousand men, besides women and children, after a busy day of teaching and healing. The fellowship meal and the Eucharist was an important feature of the church during the Apostolic era. Paul encourages the church at Galatia to sing hymns and psalms and spiritual songs and to participate in the breaking of bread and sharing of the cup until Jesus comes again.
How does the Holy Meal play itself out in the United Methodist Church? In preparation for the United Methodist General Conference in 2004, the church carried out a study on United Methodists’ understandings of Holy Communion in the United States and in several other territories where the church exists. The results were heartening. More than anything else, United Methodists wanted to experience Holy Communion more frequently than they were at that time. Thus as a result of the study, the 2004 General Conference passed a resolution that included, among other things:
In the report to the General Conference 2004 titled “This Holy Mystery”, the story is told of a little girl whose parents had taken her forward to receive Holy Communion. Disappointed with the small piece of bread she was given to dip in the cup, the child cried loudly, “I want more! I want more!” While embarrassing to her parents and amusing to the pastor and congregation, this little girl’s cry accurately expresses the feelings of many contemporary United Methodist people. We want more! We want more than we are receiving from the sacrament of Holy Communion as it is practiced in our churches.
Holy Communion is one of the two recognized sacraments in the Protestant Church. There are several different understandings of Holy Communion, which have developed over the centuries. Roman Catholicism teaches that the substance of bread and wine are changed (although not visibly) into the actual body and blood of Christ (sometimes called transubstantiation). Protestant Reformers in the sixteenth century rejected this teaching but had diverse ideas among themselves. Lutherans maintain that Christ’s body and blood are truly present in and with the elements of bread and wine in the celebration (sometimes erroneously called corporeal presence or consubstantiation). Ulrich Zwingli, a Swiss reformer, taught that the Lord’s Supper is a memorial or reminder of Christ’s sacrifice, an affirmation of faith, and a sign of Christian fellowship. Although his name may be unfamiliar, Zwingli’s views are widely shared today, especially within evangelical churches. Denominations in the Reformed tradi-tion, following John Calvin, maintain that although Christ’s body is in heaven, when Holy Communion is received with true faith, the power of the Holy Spirit nourishes those who partake. The Church of England affirmed a somewhat similar view in its Catechism and Articles of Religion. These understandings (stated here very simplistically) suggest the range of ideas that were available to John and Charles Wesley and the early Methodists.
Like baptism, Holy Communion is regarded by Protestants as a sacrament. That is, it’s an act of worship ordained by Christ and is a means of grace. This does not mean that we become any more worthy of God’s grace by taking part in Communion. Rather, we open ourselves to the divine love that’s already there; we become more ready to receive that love and to respond to it. As with baptism, we use common, physical gifts of the earth, bread and wine—though in United Methodist churches we prefer unfermented grape juice. All Christians are welcome at our table, whatever their denomination. Holy Communion is a family meal, and all Christians are members of Christ’s family. Therefore, in each congregation, when we receive the bread and cup, we join with millions of brothers and sisters across the ages and around the world. Holy Communion (or the Lord’s Supper) is a mystery too deep for words. Its meaning will vary for each of us and from one time to another. But three essential meanings are caught up in this proclamation in our Communion service: “Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again” (The United Methodist Hymnal, p. 14).
In part, Communion is a time to remember Jesus’ death, his self-giving sacrifice on our behalf. As he said to the disciples at their last meal together, “Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:24). In remembering his passion and crucifixion, we remember our own guilt; for we know that in our sin we crucify Christ many times over from day to day. So the Lord’s Supper is a time of confession: “We confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart….We have not heard the cry of the needy” (The United Methodist Hymnal, p. 12).
But Communion is not a memorial service for a dead Jesus. It’s not a time to wallow in our own guilt. It’s a time to celebrate the Resurrection, to recognize and give thanks for the Risen Christ. The bread and wine represent the living presence of Christ among us—though we do not claim, as some denominations do, that they become Christ’s body and blood.
In Luke’s Resurrection story, the Risen Christ broke bread with two of his followers at Emmaus, “then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him” (24:31). So, as we’re nourished by this meal, our eyes are opened; and we recognize Christ here in our congregation, our community, and our world. What’s our response? Thanksgiving! In fact, another of our words for Communion, the Eucharist, means thanksgiving.
In Communion we also celebrate the final victory of Christ. We anticipate God’s coming reign, God’s future for this world and all creation. As Jesus said, “I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom” (Matthew 26:29).
So as we participate in our Communion breakfast we will hold all these things in mind.
The Communion breakfast is a Love Feast and a Eucharistic celebration in which we enjoy fellowship through Christ with Christians across the ages and around the world. We will share a meal and participate in Holy Communion. We will share testimonies and affirm our faith in God’s goodness and give thanks for the many ways in which God continues to bless us. But first and foremost we will worship God.
First, during his ministry, Jesus often gathered his disciples around a meal after opening the scriptures to them. When he shared the Last Supper with his disciples, it was in celebration of the Feast of the Passover, which recalls God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus fed five thousand men, besides women and children, after a busy day of teaching and healing. The fellowship meal and the Eucharist was an important feature of the church during the Apostolic era. Paul encourages the church at Galatia to sing hymns and psalms and spiritual songs and to participate in the breaking of bread and sharing of the cup until Jesus comes again.
How does the Holy Meal play itself out in the United Methodist Church? In preparation for the United Methodist General Conference in 2004, the church carried out a study on United Methodists’ understandings of Holy Communion in the United States and in several other territories where the church exists. The results were heartening. More than anything else, United Methodists wanted to experience Holy Communion more frequently than they were at that time. Thus as a result of the study, the 2004 General Conference passed a resolution that included, among other things:
- That United Methodists could increase the frequency of Holy Communion. Some churches went to a weekly Communion and others to a bi-monthly Communion.
- That wine (fermented grape juice) is allowed in addition to grape juice. Wine was not seen as a substitution for grape juice, but in addition to. The choice must always be made clear for participants.
In the report to the General Conference 2004 titled “This Holy Mystery”, the story is told of a little girl whose parents had taken her forward to receive Holy Communion. Disappointed with the small piece of bread she was given to dip in the cup, the child cried loudly, “I want more! I want more!” While embarrassing to her parents and amusing to the pastor and congregation, this little girl’s cry accurately expresses the feelings of many contemporary United Methodist people. We want more! We want more than we are receiving from the sacrament of Holy Communion as it is practiced in our churches.
Holy Communion is one of the two recognized sacraments in the Protestant Church. There are several different understandings of Holy Communion, which have developed over the centuries. Roman Catholicism teaches that the substance of bread and wine are changed (although not visibly) into the actual body and blood of Christ (sometimes called transubstantiation). Protestant Reformers in the sixteenth century rejected this teaching but had diverse ideas among themselves. Lutherans maintain that Christ’s body and blood are truly present in and with the elements of bread and wine in the celebration (sometimes erroneously called corporeal presence or consubstantiation). Ulrich Zwingli, a Swiss reformer, taught that the Lord’s Supper is a memorial or reminder of Christ’s sacrifice, an affirmation of faith, and a sign of Christian fellowship. Although his name may be unfamiliar, Zwingli’s views are widely shared today, especially within evangelical churches. Denominations in the Reformed tradi-tion, following John Calvin, maintain that although Christ’s body is in heaven, when Holy Communion is received with true faith, the power of the Holy Spirit nourishes those who partake. The Church of England affirmed a somewhat similar view in its Catechism and Articles of Religion. These understandings (stated here very simplistically) suggest the range of ideas that were available to John and Charles Wesley and the early Methodists.
Like baptism, Holy Communion is regarded by Protestants as a sacrament. That is, it’s an act of worship ordained by Christ and is a means of grace. This does not mean that we become any more worthy of God’s grace by taking part in Communion. Rather, we open ourselves to the divine love that’s already there; we become more ready to receive that love and to respond to it. As with baptism, we use common, physical gifts of the earth, bread and wine—though in United Methodist churches we prefer unfermented grape juice. All Christians are welcome at our table, whatever their denomination. Holy Communion is a family meal, and all Christians are members of Christ’s family. Therefore, in each congregation, when we receive the bread and cup, we join with millions of brothers and sisters across the ages and around the world. Holy Communion (or the Lord’s Supper) is a mystery too deep for words. Its meaning will vary for each of us and from one time to another. But three essential meanings are caught up in this proclamation in our Communion service: “Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again” (The United Methodist Hymnal, p. 14).
In part, Communion is a time to remember Jesus’ death, his self-giving sacrifice on our behalf. As he said to the disciples at their last meal together, “Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:24). In remembering his passion and crucifixion, we remember our own guilt; for we know that in our sin we crucify Christ many times over from day to day. So the Lord’s Supper is a time of confession: “We confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart….We have not heard the cry of the needy” (The United Methodist Hymnal, p. 12).
But Communion is not a memorial service for a dead Jesus. It’s not a time to wallow in our own guilt. It’s a time to celebrate the Resurrection, to recognize and give thanks for the Risen Christ. The bread and wine represent the living presence of Christ among us—though we do not claim, as some denominations do, that they become Christ’s body and blood.
In Luke’s Resurrection story, the Risen Christ broke bread with two of his followers at Emmaus, “then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him” (24:31). So, as we’re nourished by this meal, our eyes are opened; and we recognize Christ here in our congregation, our community, and our world. What’s our response? Thanksgiving! In fact, another of our words for Communion, the Eucharist, means thanksgiving.
In Communion we also celebrate the final victory of Christ. We anticipate God’s coming reign, God’s future for this world and all creation. As Jesus said, “I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom” (Matthew 26:29).
So as we participate in our Communion breakfast we will hold all these things in mind.
The Communion breakfast is a Love Feast and a Eucharistic celebration in which we enjoy fellowship through Christ with Christians across the ages and around the world. We will share a meal and participate in Holy Communion. We will share testimonies and affirm our faith in God’s goodness and give thanks for the many ways in which God continues to bless us. But first and foremost we will worship God.
Monday, April 30, 2012
May Tidings
There is a lot going on! Read all about it in the May edition of Tidings, our monthly newsletter.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Sermons and Shoes
The two most recent sermons are now online on our website. Give them a listen and while you are there also check out the message from Coach Thayer Redman when he came and thanked us for helping out with track shoe donations. I also recommend following the link to the address he gave at the 2009 MHS graduation.
UMCatalyst News Notes 4/23/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Judith (Pettingell) Desautell
Judith (Pettingell) Desautell, 66, of East Hartford, (formerly of Manchester) passed away on March 27, 2012, at her home. She was born August 14,1945, in Columbus Ohio, and was the daughter of Frank and Margaret
Pettingell. She was a graduate of the University of Maine at Orono and a former Elementary School teacher.
Judith leaves behind her daughter Courtney (Desautell) Gagne and her husband Douglas Gagne, and her two Grandsons, James and Miles Gagne of East Haddam; as well as her brother, Dana Pettingell and his wife Peggy of Hillsborough, NJ. She also leaves many close friends. She was predeceased by her parents and daughter Suzanne (Desautell) Labbe.
Judith fought a long battle with Hereditary Spastic Parapalegia and because of her special needs, became a strong advocate for the rights of people dealing with the Probate Courts. She was a member of the North United Methodist Church in Manchester for more than 40 years and leaves many special friends from the church. She was a cat lover and rescued many cats throughout her adult life which brought her much happiness.
A memorial service will be at North United Methodist Church, 300 Parker Street in Manchester, CT on Friday, April 20th, 2012 at 6:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Protectors of Animals P.O. Box 24 South Glastonbury, CT 06073 or online at poainc.org.
Judith fought a long battle with Hereditary Spastic Parapalegia and because of her special needs, became a strong advocate for the rights of people dealing with the Probate Courts. She was a member of the North United Methodist Church in Manchester for more than 40 years and leaves many special friends from the church. She was a cat lover and rescued many cats throughout her adult life which brought her much happiness.
A memorial service will be at North United Methodist Church, 300 Parker Street in Manchester, CT on Friday, April 20th, 2012 at 6:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Protectors of Animals P.O. Box 24 South Glastonbury, CT 06073 or online at poainc.org.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Revisit The Fourteen Stations of the Cross
If you missed coming to the service on Good Friday you can still listen and Revisit the Fourteen Stations of the Cross.
UMCatalyst News Notes 4/4/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Reminder
Reminder that there will be a baptism, and four new members joining North Church this evening at 7 pm - during the last hour of the prayer vigil. If you are available, please come to church and support our newest members.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Palm Sunday Breakfast reminder
8 am Tomorrow at North United Methodist Church is the place to be enjoy some good food and fellowship to kick off Holy Week in style. Pancakes and baked goods and fruit oh my!
Thursday, March 29, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 3/28/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Important Message for Those Who Have Signed The Open Letter to General Conference
Thank you for taking time to express your support of the Open Letter to the Delegates to the 2012 General Conference. As of last night 1,735 people had signed - clergy and lay from small, medium and large churches. Signers came from every jurisdiction and from across the theological spectrum. We would like to encourage you in two ways:
Blessings,
Adam Hamilton
- First, commit to daily prayer for the upcoming General Conference, that God might guide our church. You can access the General Conference prayer guide or simply pray your own prayer asking that God’s vision for the United Methodist Church will be discerned by the delegates. If these proposals are of God, we pray that the delegates will see this and that they will have the courage and boldness to pursue this vision. If they are not God's will we pray God will reveal the path we are meant to take.
- Secondly, take a moment to copy and paste the link to the Open Letter so it can be shared thru your social media (Email, Facebook, Twitter)to other United Methodist clergy and laity encouraging them to consider expressing their support in this effort. The expression of this support is extremely important.
Blessings,
Adam Hamilton
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Monday, March 26, 2012
April Tidings and New Sermons
Check out the April edition of our monthly newsletter Tidings for information and inspiration. There are also new sermons online for your listening pleasure.
Friday, March 23, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 3/21/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
SUNDAY, MARCH 25 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
SUNDAY, MARCH 25
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
directly following fellowship time - approximately 11:30 am
We hope you will plan to remain after service to
join your church family for this important church health update.
Friday, March 16, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 3/14/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Sermon 3/4/2012
It has been great to hear that people have found the online sermon recordings useful. The sermon from this past Sunday is up online. Give it a listen if you weren't able to be here, if you want to hear it again, and always feel free to share it with anyone that you think might get something out of it.
Monday, February 27, 2012
March Tidings and New Sermons
Check out the March edition of our monthly newsletter Tidings for information and inspiration. There are also new sermons online for your listening pleasure.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 2/22/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Ash Wednesday service 7pm tonight
Just a quick reminder that there is an Ash Wednesday service tonight at 7 pm at North United Methodist Church.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 2/15/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Fellowship "Mac And Cheese" Potluck
A favorite comfort food loved by almost everyone! This is an evening to share in fellowship and explore the many varieties of this American dinner staple. From classic to gourmet!
Pasta – elbows, shells, twists, spaghetti, penne, etc.
Texture – firm, creamy, creamy with crunch, crumb topping, etc.
Cheese – American, cheddar, swiss, mozzarella, gouda,
pepper jack, fontina, gorgonzola, etc.
Additions – tomato, broccoli, spinach, bacon, ham, sausage,
jalapenos, mushrooms, onions, etc.
So many options! Join us on this gastronomical journey.
Whether you choose to cook or to taste – all are welcome!
All cooks are asked to please bring a detailed ingredient sign to display with their Mac and Cheese.
There is a sign-up in the Memorial Room and an 'Event' on Facebook.
Pasta – elbows, shells, twists, spaghetti, penne, etc.
Texture – firm, creamy, creamy with crunch, crumb topping, etc.
Cheese – American, cheddar, swiss, mozzarella, gouda,
pepper jack, fontina, gorgonzola, etc.
Additions – tomato, broccoli, spinach, bacon, ham, sausage,
jalapenos, mushrooms, onions, etc.
So many options! Join us on this gastronomical journey.
Whether you choose to cook or to taste – all are welcome!
All cooks are asked to please bring a detailed ingredient sign to display with their Mac and Cheese.
There is a sign-up in the Memorial Room and an 'Event' on Facebook.
Habitat for Humanity Building Opportunity
Saturday, March 24
NUMC is looking for 7 volunteers to join 7 folks from SUMC to work on a Habitat building project in Hartford. Building skills are not required as instruction is provided on site. North Church has been involved in many Habitat projects in the past and this is an exciting opportunity to again provide support to such a worthy cause. We’ll meet at church and carpool to the site.
For details speak with Bud Moyer – 860-646-0424.
A sign-up sheet is in the Memorial Room.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
February 2012 Tidings
A new issue of our monthly newsletter is now online. Be informed! Be inspired! Read the February 2012 issue of Tidings.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
1/29/2012 Sermon Online
Listen to the sermon from 1/29/2012 given by special guest Ms. Doreen Petroza, visiting lay speaker from Crystal Lake Community UMC.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Souper Bowl Sunday, February 5, 2012 — Proceeds to benefit MACC
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 1/25/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
January 22nd, 2012 Sermon - Gone Fishing
Hear the sermon from this past Sunday, January 22nd online.
You can also check out the whole service mashed into about 5 minutes. Full services may be heard at North United Methodist Church on Sunday mornings at 10am.
You can also check out the whole service mashed into about 5 minutes. Full services may be heard at North United Methodist Church on Sunday mornings at 10am.
Friday, January 20, 2012
This Sunday
This is a reminder that there is a Leadership Breakfast Meeting this Sunday at 8:15. Worship is at 10 am as usual and there is a Power to Heal Class at 11:30. Additionally, there are Membership Forms and Talent Pledge Cards that have not yet been completed and returned, thank you very much to those who have, so please take a couple minutes to help our dedicated workers have the information they need.
MACC Food Pantry and SCRIP - Working Together
The MACC Food Pantry is always in need of donations, but we realize that many people are already pressed for time in their busy lives.
It's as simple as 1-2-3:
It's as simple as 1-2-3:
- Five minutes or less to order/buy a SCRIP grocery card - TIME SAVED!
- The purchase of a SCRIP card - MONEY RAISED FOR NUMC!
- The grocery card given to Marlene Camper to buy groceries for the food pantry - DONATION MADE!
Thursday, January 5, 2012
UMCatalyst News Notes 1/4/2012
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News NotesYou can also check out old issues in the News and Publication Archives of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Interactive 'Wizard of OZ' Family Movie Night January 14th at 6:30 pm
Join us to watch Dorothy Gale (and her little dog too!) as they are swept up in a tornado from their Kansas farm, and then dropped in a magical and colorful land filled with a host of characters and adventures. We’ll follow them on their quest to return to Kansas because "There’s no place like home!"
Reserve the date and join in the fun!
All are invited to: dress up as a character, bring friends and family (especially your little "munchkins"), participate throughout the movie with some planned activities, sing-along, and enjoy freshly popped popcorn, and fellowship!
Sign-up in the Memorial Room!
Join on Facebook and it will remind you to come.
You won’t want to miss this fun filled evening!
Reserve the date and join in the fun!
All are invited to: dress up as a character, bring friends and family (especially your little "munchkins"), participate throughout the movie with some planned activities, sing-along, and enjoy freshly popped popcorn, and fellowship!
Sign-up in the Memorial Room!
Join on Facebook and it will remind you to come.
You won’t want to miss this fun filled evening!
Recent Pictures
Thanks Tim for posting some pictures of some of the recent good times at NUMC on Facebook.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Letter From The Pastor's Desk
Dear NUMC,
Greetings to you all in this new year. We look forward to the many opportunities we know will be presented to us to grow and expand, to reach higher and to realize our dreams in 2012.
Leaving the past behind us, for that is where it is, we look forward to improvements in our lives. We can bring the lessons of past years with us, as part of the guide to our future, but we are well advised to leave the disappointments, hurts and setbacks in the past where they belong. These negatives only serve to retard us, to drag us down and keep us from our destiny. On the other hand we also cannot bring the good times with us, we can bring the memories of those good times and these memories serve the purpose of inspiring us, of moving us forward, of helping us to cope with difficult situations which we will surely face.
So in this time of resolutions, we can determine to leave the negative experiences of the past behind and bring with us into our future only those things that will lift us up and move us forward.
One of the memories we can take with us into the future to inspire us as a community is the unexpected ways in which God has blessed us during this year. Although we still face a challenge with regard to our finances, God continues to surprise us with gifts. We can take this as a sign, an indication that God cares for us and provides for us, even when we are unaware of it. God still works, in an efficient economic arrangement, the vast reaches of which we can never fully understand in this dimension of life.
That is where our faith comes in. Faith in God to guide the future. Faith in God that when one channel of our good fails or is closed or cut off, that God provides another channel. Without faith we really cannot go forward, because we lack the knowledge of everything necessary to make correct decisions. So we do need God, because in God lies the divine and unlimited knowledge that is we need in order for us to reach our destiny.
I wonder how many of us think about our destiny, or how far into the future we think in terms of destiny. Is our destiny retirement from a job? Is our destiny wealth? Is our destiny creature comforts? Is our destiny health?
Or is our destiny bigger, larger, more expansive than that? I’d like to suggest that while these are worthwhile goals, our destiny should be much larger.
I’d like to suggest therefore that our destiny is heaven. Yes, heaven, which means being in the presence of God. This is the destiny for all of creation, and we can only be in the presence of God when we are reconciled with God. Some of us think that we have to die to be reconciled and be in the presence of God, But we do not have to die physically, only to put to death spiritually all those things that prevent us from reconciling with God. Some of those things were mentioned earlier — feelings of disappointment and unworthiness, jealousy and bitterness associated with negative experiences. Let us put these things to death, bury them in the past and move forward with the expectation and the hope that God will continue to provide and care for us as He has done in the past. And God will bring us to a glorious destiny.
Shalom,
Pastor Laurel
Greetings to you all in this new year. We look forward to the many opportunities we know will be presented to us to grow and expand, to reach higher and to realize our dreams in 2012.
Leaving the past behind us, for that is where it is, we look forward to improvements in our lives. We can bring the lessons of past years with us, as part of the guide to our future, but we are well advised to leave the disappointments, hurts and setbacks in the past where they belong. These negatives only serve to retard us, to drag us down and keep us from our destiny. On the other hand we also cannot bring the good times with us, we can bring the memories of those good times and these memories serve the purpose of inspiring us, of moving us forward, of helping us to cope with difficult situations which we will surely face.
So in this time of resolutions, we can determine to leave the negative experiences of the past behind and bring with us into our future only those things that will lift us up and move us forward.
One of the memories we can take with us into the future to inspire us as a community is the unexpected ways in which God has blessed us during this year. Although we still face a challenge with regard to our finances, God continues to surprise us with gifts. We can take this as a sign, an indication that God cares for us and provides for us, even when we are unaware of it. God still works, in an efficient economic arrangement, the vast reaches of which we can never fully understand in this dimension of life.
That is where our faith comes in. Faith in God to guide the future. Faith in God that when one channel of our good fails or is closed or cut off, that God provides another channel. Without faith we really cannot go forward, because we lack the knowledge of everything necessary to make correct decisions. So we do need God, because in God lies the divine and unlimited knowledge that is we need in order for us to reach our destiny.
I wonder how many of us think about our destiny, or how far into the future we think in terms of destiny. Is our destiny retirement from a job? Is our destiny wealth? Is our destiny creature comforts? Is our destiny health?
Or is our destiny bigger, larger, more expansive than that? I’d like to suggest that while these are worthwhile goals, our destiny should be much larger.
I’d like to suggest therefore that our destiny is heaven. Yes, heaven, which means being in the presence of God. This is the destiny for all of creation, and we can only be in the presence of God when we are reconciled with God. Some of us think that we have to die to be reconciled and be in the presence of God, But we do not have to die physically, only to put to death spiritually all those things that prevent us from reconciling with God. Some of those things were mentioned earlier — feelings of disappointment and unworthiness, jealousy and bitterness associated with negative experiences. Let us put these things to death, bury them in the past and move forward with the expectation and the hope that God will continue to provide and care for us as He has done in the past. And God will bring us to a glorious destiny.
Shalom,
Pastor Laurel
First New Tidings of the New Year
Read the latest NUMC news and happenings in the January edition of Tidings, our monthly newsletter.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Services Reminder
Christmas Eve:
Saturday December 24th 5:00 pm — Family Service with Children and Youth Participation
Saturday December 24th 11:00 pm — Candlelight Service
Christmas Day:
Sunday December 25th 10:00 am — There IS service on Christmas Day this year. An extra special opportunity to give thanks and celebrate the birth of Jesus with your church family. If you know people who are looking for a place to worship Christmas Day, whether their usual church is not having a service or any other reason they are looking for the reason for the season make sure to let them know we will be worshiping on this special day.
Saturday December 24th 5:00 pm — Family Service with Children and Youth Participation
Saturday December 24th 11:00 pm — Candlelight Service
Christmas Day:
Sunday December 25th 10:00 am — There IS service on Christmas Day this year. An extra special opportunity to give thanks and celebrate the birth of Jesus with your church family. If you know people who are looking for a place to worship Christmas Day, whether their usual church is not having a service or any other reason they are looking for the reason for the season make sure to let them know we will be worshiping on this special day.
UMCatalyst News Notes 12/21/2011
UMCatalyst News Notes
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
WELL DONE FAITHFUL BAKERS!
120+ dozen cookies were sold yesterday - completely sold out!
$533 was raised for the choir library!
Praise God, and cookie lovers!
$533 was raised for the choir library!
Praise God, and cookie lovers!
Friday, December 16, 2011
UMCatalyst News Notes 12/14/2011
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
Monday, December 12, 2011
Family Fellowship Christmas Party and MACC Food Pantry
At the Family Fellowship Christmas Party this Saturday night we will be collecting canned goods for MACC under the Christmas tree. Come and have fun and bring a little something to help those in need.
MACC especially needs:
MACC especially needs:
meat soups, beef stew, canned meat, pasta sauce, cereal, corn, peas, tomatoes, baked beans, baking mixes and coffee, diapers sizes 4 & 5, corned beef hash, chili with beans, canned white potatoes, juice, rice/pasta mixes, jelly, mixed vegetables, spinach, clam chowder, peanut butter, canned pasta (ravioli, spaghetti & meatballs, etc.), condiments, tuna, dry boxed potatoes, dry red kidney beans, mayonnaise, gelatin/pudding mixes, ramen noodles, sugar, green beans, beets, beans (black, white, pinto, etc.), chicken soup, yams, snacks, hot chocolate, pasta, carrots.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Family Fellowship Christmas Party
Saturday, Dec. 17 at 6:30 pm
All are invited to join in a fun evening of making decorations, singing songs, and a variety of additional activities. Mark your calendars and plan to join us with your family, friends, and neighbors!
Join in on Facebook.
All are invited to join in a fun evening of making decorations, singing songs, and a variety of additional activities. Mark your calendars and plan to join us with your family, friends, and neighbors!
Join in on Facebook.
UMCatalyst News Notes 12/7/2011
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
UMCatalyst News Notes
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Christmas Cantata and Cookie Platters
Sunday, December 18th
The NUMC Choirs will present the Christmas Cantata
I Hear the Prophet Callin’
The Christmas Story from Prophecy to Fulfillment
by Pepper ChoplinOur Choir Director, Chris Collins, is rehearsing with the choirs and has some guest instrumentalists and singers joining the presentation. Worship with us as we witness with some wonderful special music and more. Be sure to stay after the service for...
Christmas Cookie Platters
Platters of Homemade Christmas cookies for sale following worship. Our enthusiastic bakers have come up with an exciting variety of cookies:
Available in two sizes:
Pecan Bars, Chocolate Chip, Russian Tea Cakes, Snickerdoodles, M&M Cookies, Peanut Butter Kiss, Pizzelles, Pinwheels, Almond Spice, Neapolitan (Italian cookie - a layered light and dark dough with candied cherries and nuts), Sugar Cookies, Oatmeal shortbread, Pistachio Biscotti, Chocolate, Thumbprint with Raspberry, Pomanders, Rugelach, Butter Cookies, Date Cookies w/ candied cherries/pineapple, Oatmeal Raisin, Lumberjacks, Chocolate Chip, Apple Jack, Ginger Crisps, Austrian Kipfel (nut crescents), Thumbprint w/ choc chips and nuts, maybe more!
Available in two sizes:
Personal size — 1 dozen/$5.00Proceeds will be designated to the Church Music Ministry. Thank you in advance for your support.
Family Size — 3 dozen/$12.00
Christmas Card Mailbox
The Church Christmas Card Mailbox will be available at the back of the sanctuary for exchanging cards within the congregation beginning Sunday, December 10th through Sunday, January 8th. The mailbox is alphabetically organized by last name. Please remember to check for cards each Sunday. Thank you!
MACC’s Church Mouse Thrift Shoppe
MACC has combined the Best of Both Worlds: Inspirations with The Church Mouse Thrift Shoppe.
The Thrift Shoppe is now located at our Inspirations location, 65 East Center Street, Manchester. This move is planned for the winter while our 456 ½ building is being renovated. All Thrift Shoppe donations may be left in the bins on the porch at 456 ½ Main Street.
If you need more information or have questions, please leave a message at 860-647-0800. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.
Thank you.
The Thrift Shoppe is now located at our Inspirations location, 65 East Center Street, Manchester. This move is planned for the winter while our 456 ½ building is being renovated. All Thrift Shoppe donations may be left in the bins on the porch at 456 ½ Main Street.
Hours of Operation for the Church Mouse Thrift Shoppe and Inspirations:
Wednesday – Friday: 10:00-4:00pm
Saturday: 9:00-2:00pm
If you need more information or have questions, please leave a message at 860-647-0800. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.
Thank you.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
December Tidings Newsletter
The December issue of Tidings, the monthly newsletter of North United Methodist Church is available online on our website. Take a look, there is a lot going on at NUMC.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Family Movie Night
Family Movie Night
Saturday, November 26 at 6:30 pm
Come See:
The Adventures Of Milo and Otis
A free fellowship evening! Bring family and friends. Popcorn and drinks provided!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
UMCatalyst News Notes 11/22/11
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
http://www.neumc.org/enewsletterarchives/detail/1609
http://www.neumc.org/enewsletterarchives/detail/1609
Friday, November 11, 2011
Letter from the Council of Bishops
Here is a letter from the Council of Bishops:
http://www.neumc.org/console/files/oFiles_Library_XZXLCZ/COB_Letter_to_the_Church_111011-English_NMGNAXCW.pdf
and an article written about it:
http://www.umc.org/site/apps/nlnet/content3.aspx?c=lwL4KnN1LtH&b=2789393&ct=11493419¬oc=1
http://www.neumc.org/console/files/oFiles_Library_XZXLCZ/COB_Letter_to_the_Church_111011-English_NMGNAXCW.pdf
and an article written about it:
http://www.umc.org/site/apps/nlnet/content3.aspx?c=lwL4KnN1LtH&b=2789393&ct=11493419¬oc=1
UMCatalyst News Notes
Follow this link to read the latest in e-news for clergy and laity in the New England Conference:
http://www.neumc.org/enewsletterarchives/detail/1598
http://www.neumc.org/enewsletterarchives/detail/1598
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Interfaith Justice Issues Assembly
Democracy is NOT a Spectator Sport! Interfaith Justice Issues Assembly Tuesday, Nov. 29 in Middletown
Faith communities across Connecticut interested in cooperating more effectively on social and economic justice issues impacting our people, will gather Tue. evening, Nov. 29, from 7-9 p.m. at St. Pius X Parish Hall, 310 Westfield St. in Middletown.
Churches, synagogues, mosques and other faith groups are invited to send teams.
Interested individuals are also welcome, including small business owners, health care professionals, students, those currently unemployed or underemployed, recent immigrants, etc.
The program will include a brief panel presentation by: Dr. Steve Smith from the National Physicians’ Alliance; Lorella Praeli from CT Students for the Dream; and Peter Thor from AFSCME Council 4. Discussion/Strategy breakouts will follow focusing on health care reform, immigration reform, jobs/economic supports and other issues that may be raised. The goal is the shaping of an action plan for 2012.
Admission is free but reservations are encouraged due to limited seating. To RSVP, for rides or further info, please contact United Action Connecticut (UACT) at 860-882-3849, or email uact4change@hotmail.com.
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