When Less Creates Spaces for More-December 2007

“Tis the season to be jolly” – no, scratch that – the reality for most of us is: “Tis the season to be frantic!” This is absolutely the busiest time of the year. There are parties and special activities to enjoy (concerts, plays, etc. etc. etc.). Family gatherings to plan and attend (and sometimes referee)…the Christmas cards to write…the presents to buy and wrap… food to prepare…and services to attend at church and in the community. All these things can be very enjoyable. So why is it that so many of us enter the month of December feeling overwhelmed and exhausted just thinking about what awaits us? Why does something that is meant to bring us peace and joy leave us feeling so frantic and overextended? Perhaps the reason is that we are so busy celebrating Christmas from one end of December ‘til the other that we miss the opportunity to observe the special season that takes place before December 25^th – Advent.Advent provides a remarkable opportunity for people to do what we really need to do – dial down the drama, slow down and wake up to what really matters – to step back from the hustle and bustle of life and quietly prepare a place in our hearts and lives for the Christ Child. It is a time to engage in things that have true and lasting meaning, not just things that glitter because of tinsel and blinking lights. It is the heart and soul of our journey as Christians – God loving us so much that God chooses a human birth into poverty so that Jesus would be Lord of all, not just Lord of a privileged few. This kind of awesome good news requires peace and time to soak deeply into our souls. Unless we stop and allow our hearts to pay attention to this joyous good news, we can miss the true blessings of this special time by being distracted by the lovely, lesser joys the holiday brings – tinsel instead of true treasure.This good news also requires a response, and until we slow down enough to fully grasp the gift God offers each one of us at Christmas, our hearts will not be truly touched, and our response will be superficial. The miracle of Christmas is its capacity to change and transform us- if we allow that to happen. From that place of transformation we can then respond to the world around us with hearts on fire with love, compassion and mercy.My challenge to us all this December is to do less of what we normally do, so there is space and time to do more of what really matters. Spend less time racing around attending many activities, and instead pick just a few that are meaningful and truly enjoy them. Send fewer cards (giving the environment a break), and instead, have meaningful contact with people. Spend less money on gifts that people do not need, and instead, give gifts that can make a difference in the lives of those who truly are in need. For example, instead of getting your favorite Uncle yet another tie, go to resources like http://www.churchworldservice.org/ or http://www.seva.org/ or http://www.worldvisiongifts.org/ and give a gift of compassion in honor of the people you love- like safe drinking water, or a school kit for children, or sight-saving surgery for someone who is blind. This type of gift would make the Christ child smile. And as you live out Christ’s call to be loving and compassionate, pay attention to those around you who may be experiencing isolation, loneliness and depression during the long nights of December and January, and remember to include them in your circle of care.By taking steps this Advent to do less, you will have the opportunity to have and do so much more this holiday season – more time to spend in meaningful activities with those you love, a more compassionate response to those who are in need (and to the environment), and more opportunities to prepare your heart to receive the Christ child and to be transformed by the miracle of Christmas…which is what this season is all about.May you and your loved ones have a blessed, miraculous Advent and Christmastide.

With love and prayers,
Kim

Thoughts From Kim…

 

February 2008

Today is a beautiful day.  The snow is falling (no wind to speak of), and the snowflakes are the big, fluffy variety – it is a picture postcard day…unless you are trying to drive in the ice and slush, or needing to shovel the zillions of these beautiful flakes.  My view of the snowstorm from the warmth of the Manse study is delightful, and I can comfortably take time to appreciate the beauty of today.  A change of circumstances (like trying to drive to Buffalo in this weather) might significantly alter my opinion of the storm outside this window.

A change in circumstances can indeed invite a change in perspective!

There is a saying in Scotland – “a change is as good as a rest.”  It reminds us that doing something differently – changing something – can leave us feeling rested, revitalized, and give us a whole different perspective on life.  Sometimes a little “shake-up” can make all the difference – a positive difference.

Lent is the season for just such a shake-up.  We began the year in Advent with the anticipation of the birth of the Christ, and then celebrated God’s gift of love at Christmas.  The Christmas season led into Epiphany – a time to discover the many way God is revealed to us.  Now deep in the darkness of winter, we find ourselves in Lent.  Lent is one of the oldest seasons in the Christian calendar, and has always been a time to prepare for the joy and wonder of Easter!  It is the winter that leads into spring – a time to prepare for new life and rebirth.  For Christians, it is a time to prepare to experience a spiritual spring, with the rebirth and rejuvenation of our spirits. 

Throughout history, people have approached Lent in many different ways.  Most try to attend worship faithfully throughout the six weeks of this season.  Many make the effort to attend special opportunities for prayer and learning.  Some use the time to seriously take stock of their relationship with God and others, and see if a change of direction (the true meaning of repentance) is required.  There is also the popular “giving up something for Lent” (fasting) – usually something that you love and need to learn to enjoy in moderation, or something you know is not good for you. I have watched people “fast” from things like gossip, worry, over-use of credit cards or drugs/alcohol, with each person finding what is uniquely their weakest link, and working to come to terms with it.

Some, take a different approach – instead of giving something up for Lent, they take on something new.  Perhaps it is a new good habit that they want to get “bedded in” during these 40 days, like service to those in need, care for one’s health, developing a more regular prayer life – there are as many different approaches as there are people!

The key is this: Do something different that will help you to be more in touch with God.  Shake things up a bit – get a different perspective!  Use these forty days constructively and creatively to open yourself to the God that loves you more than you can imagine.  In doing this, you will be preparing yourself to move through the darkness of winter into the beauty and joy of spring – the Resurrection!

In the words of this ancient call to the Christian Church:

“Dear People of God:  The first Christians observed with great devotion the days of our Lord’s passion and resurrection, and it became the custom of the Church to prepare for them by a season of penitence and fasting…I invite you, therefore in the name of the Church, to the observance of a holy Lent…”Be open to the amazing possibilities that await you this Lent!With love and prayers,Kim

Minister’s Days Away

Pastor Kim takes Friday and Saturday as her days off each week, unless there is an emergency or important church activity scheduled for those days.  In case of an emergency, please call her at the manse:  786-5687.

 

 

 

January 2008

I said to the man that stood at the Gate of the Year,

“Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown,” -

and he said “Go out into the darkness, and put your

hand into the hand of God.  That shall be to you

better than light, and safer than a known way.”

-          Minnie Louise Hoskins

 

This quote often comes to mind as I stand at the threshold of a New Year – a new beginning filled with fresh opportunities and challenges.  If you are anything like me, you like to approach new things with as much security as possible – a light is the minimal amount of security I want before I venture into the dark unknown!  Maps, compasses, guidebooks, forecasts – anything that can help me to predict what is waiting for me is greatly appreciated.  It is also, more often than not, the beginning of a false sense of security.

Sometimes you just have to walk into the unknown without all those illusions of security, and hold only to God’s hand.

This is easier said than done (I know), but it is an amazing way to move forward.  By leaving behind the baggage of agendas, expectations, and the trappings of control and security, we open ourselves to the wondrous possibilities that await us with God as both our guide, and creator of a universe filled with limitless opportunities. Also, with the baggage behind us, we can travel lighter, and faster, and with greater agility.   Giving up control and walking into the darkness of the unknown can be frightening (ok, terrifying).   But if we trust that God does indeed love us as tenderly as a loving parent does with their precious child, then we can, with confidence, place our hand into the hand of God, and walk into this New Year relying on God grace, mercy, and steadfast love. 

None of us knows what the future holds – we can plan, and anticipate, but ultimately the only moment we are sure of is the moment in which we now draw breath.  We can respond to this reality by trying to over-control and micro-manage, or we can relax and step, with God, into  

this New Year, and allow God to unfold all manner of possibilities and opportunities.

May we all find the faith and courage to place our hand in the hand that is truly more secure than all the light and road maps we can create, and may we venture into the unknown guided by the light and love of Christ.

A very Blessed and Happy New Year to all,

With love,

Kim

With heartfelt thanks…

Thank you for your kindness, compassion and prayerful support during Dad’s difficult journey through sickness, hospice care, and finally to life eternal.  Your sensitivity and compassion during this most difficult time has been greatly appreciated.  Also, thank you for your thoughtfulness and generosity during Christmastide.  Every gift and expression of kindness is deeply appreciated.

With love,

Kim, Bill and David

Pastor’s Study Group -  “Discovering the Bible”

            January 3^rd and 17^th – 7 PM

Join Pastor Kim as we use the acclaimed video series “Discovering the Bible” as an excellent introduction to understanding Scripture and Bible Study.  All are welcome.

Minister’s Days Away

Pastor Kim takes Friday and Saturday as her days off each week, unless there is an emergency or important church activity scheduled for those days.  In case of an emergency, please call her at the manse:  786-5687.

Milestones In Our Church Family

Deaths:

Our prayerful sympathy is extended to the families of

 William Mislin- December 21^st, (father of Kim Cran)

 John Feust- December 23^rd(father of Deborah Kirish)

Mary Spohr -December 23rd (mother of Betty James)

“May the souls of the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”

Treasurer’s Stewardship Update

To date, we have received 44 pledges for a total of $60,640.00. The breakdown per week is as follows:

Number of Pledges:            Dollar Range:

5                                                          0-$10

15                                                         $11-$20

13                                                         $21-$30

4                                                          $31-$40

2                                                          $41-$50

3                                                          $51-$60

2                                                          $61 and up

Pledge cards are still available in the church office if you would like one. Thank you for your continued support of the ministry of the United Church of Warsaw.

January Birthdays & Anniversaries

18^th-Harry & Barbara Litz-1969

31^st-Rudolf & Adele Kunze-1953

1^st- Patrick Carney, Morgan Lee Henderson

2^nd Barbara Litz, Eric Daniel

3^rd- Fran Bottone, Rosemarie Schoff, Al Weiser

5^th- Sue Bottone, Robert Edward Lee IV

7^th- Tracy Ferguson

9^th-Bernard Colter

10^th-Kim Humphrey, Sarah Lynn Greene, Sierra Greene

11^2h-DeWayne Wilcox

12^th-Harold Litz, Patricia Durfee

14^th-Joseph Fisher

15^th-Katelyn Arnold

16^th-Gregorina Cooper, Melissa Holley

17^th-Ryan Humphrey, Jessica Kusina, Gordon Stephens

18^th Darryl Decker

19^th-Laura (Fridley) Donnelly, Jason Litz

20^th-Joseph Fridley,  Hanna Rose Tangeman

21^st-Sue Gardner

22^nd-David Hanlon

23^rd-Royce Fisher, Richard Humphrey, Dorothy Martin

25^th-Lindsy Gillen

26^th-Jordon Stephens

27^th-Matthew McWilliams

28^th Judy Plowe

29^th Kathy Humphrey

31^st Edwin Fisher, Ty Heineman, Deborah Kirish, Kathleen McGrath

Sewing Circle News:

 

Oil and clean your machine, sharpen you rotary blades, gather your notions!  It’s time to cut fabric and assemble the quilt tops.  We have two projects for this year and every able person is invited to join us in our endeavor of love, comfort, and coziness.

 

First, our supply of children’s quilts is exhausted, so feel free to help yourself to some fabric from the magic suitcase and get started on cutting, sewing, and assembling these cuddly comfort quilts.  We have a waiting list of recipients

 

Second, through a generous donation from Margaret Gardner we will be making lap quilt tops for our injured service men and women.  The beauty of these quilts are the fact that we only have to make the tops and send them to an organization that will quilt them on their machines and get them delivered to the service men and women.

 

So—please come to the first “cutting” party of the year, Sunday January 13^th 2008, at 1pm. (Weather date:  January 20^th).  Please bring your rotary cutter, rulers, cutting mat, enthusiasm, cheerfulness, and determination to cut up a lot of fabrics!!!  Cindy Welch from Journey Quilt Company in Nunda, NY has cut her prices to the bone for this project, so the donated money will go to the extreme end in purchasing the fabric for the service men and women quilts.  When the cutting is finished we will pack the fabric into kits to take home along with the instructions for assembling.

 

If you have always wanted to learn how to make a quilt, or if you are a seasoned veteran to the process, please join us in our mission to provide a little bit of home and comfort to our service members.

 

If you have any questions, please contact me at 786-8456 (h) or 786-3342 (o).

See you on the 13^th of January at 1 pm.

Sandy Corey

Warsaw Food Pantry Report

The month of November was very busy with a total of 135 households consisting of 214 adults, 152 children and 35 seniors for a total of 401 people.  This is the most we have ever had in one month.  There were 20 new families. We also gave out 21 turkeys, 10  $10.00 Save-A-Lot gift certificates and bags of food to 31 families for a total of 151 people.             

We had the following donations:

Full Gospel Church- $25.00

Warsaw Area Clergy- $110.00

Randy Sitarek- apples

Dorothy Keenan- food

Cub Scout Pack 32- food

Lori Zehler- food

Gal Pals- food

Warsaw Moose Club- food

Starburst Students- food

U.C.W. congregation-food

St. Michael’s Church-food

WCS-Elementary Student Council-food

Ruth Rohs- Turkey

Bill & Diane Santora & Carmen-food

Fred & Loretta Heller- $50.00

Elizabeth Parmelee- $200.00

United Methodist Church-food

Immanuel Methodist Church-food

There were other items left anonymously in connection.

Respectfully submitted,

Joyce Neeley

 

Youth Ministry Updates:

Youth Group Meets

Sunday Nights from 6:30-7:30

Come join us, bring a friend!

• The Youth Group continues to meet each Sunday for fellowship, inspiration, and opportunities for service. Attendance ranges between 6 and 20, depending on the night, and volunteer advisors are working together to see that the youth have the best possible experience here at their church. Discussions about the focus and future of the youth ministry program are ongoing, but the commitment to provide the best possible experience for our youth is clearly present.
• Upcoming events are being e-mailed to the youth and advisors weekly. If you would like to receive e-mail or a mailing of the upcoming events, please contact Addie in the church office (786-3868), or send a quick e-mail to ucwarsaw@frontiernet.net.
• January 20^th-Roller Skating & Dinner in Buffalo
• January 27^th- Youth ministry Sunday with contemporary worship
• Mrs. Saxton is starting a youth singing group, and is looking for volunteers. If you would like to sing, please let the church office know.

The next scheduled meeting is January 13^th, at 6:30 p.m.- Come and bring a friend!

 

Community/Church Announcements:

• Christmas time is such a beautiful season even though it goes too quickly. Our church looked so lovely that it doesn’t seem possible it’s already time to un-decorate! We will be having a church workday on Saturday January 5, 2008 beginning at 9:00 a.m. Come join us for fellowship as we work together!
• “To have missed the caroling, I might be glad. To have missed the cookies, I might have been sad! I’m enjoying the cookies while I eat, one everyday for a week.” Thank you Cookie Makers!

-Hope Rase

·         Family Service in January – A Youth Ministry Celebration

Sunday January 27^th-The focus of our family service in January will be youth ministry, and will include contemporary music and worship.   Worship leaders will include Andrew and Addie Silbert, and musicians from Houghton College.  Please invite all the young people you know to join us for this celebration of God’s love and grace.  How blessed we are to have so many young people seeking community with our church family!

Presbytery Commissioner -Our church is in need of a Commissioner to attend the Presbytery meetings (5 scheduled meetings each year plus extra meetings as scheduled).  If one person is unable to do this, we could have a small team of commissioners who share the responsibility.  If you are interested in this type of ministry, please speak with Jim Carter (786-2169).

 

Board Of Benevolence News Update:

Updates:

Look at what we were able to do together!

Ø      $500 was contributed to our blanket fund, which means 100 blankets will be distributed around the world to people in distress because of the generosity of the United Church of Warsaw!

Ø      The free-will offering for our Thanksgiving provided $388.28 for the campership fund.

Ø      Because the weather did not cooperate for our brunch on December 2, we earned less than $100. The profit from the brunch will be put towards purchasing the kitchen hood. Cooks Bob Blake, Bill Cran, Steve Meyers and Steve Perkins prepared a delicious buffet, while many others provided the baked goods, set up the dining room, waited tables and cleaned up.  Jim Carter gets the “bitter end” award, although Bob Blake gets “the early riser, you need to go home award.” Thank you!!

Cookies and Caroling: Dozens of cutout Christmas cookies were baked and decorated by adults and members of the youth group. Thanks to Bob Blake, Betty James, Deb Baker and Hugh TenHagen for their supervision and hard work and to the young people who decorated pieces of art! About 15 members of the congregation surprised 21 shut-ins and others, along with the Cloisters, East Side, and SNF at the hospital with beautiful Christmas hymns and songs as platters of yummy cookies were delivered to them. Thank you to all who made cookies, helped pack them, drove and sang! From the stories told upon the carolers  

Ø      return for hot cocoa and cookies, everyone benefited from spreading Christmas cheer!

• Thank you to everyone who provided books, hats and gloves or mittens for the Head Start children and siblings during the White Gift service. $129.00 was donated for Benevolence distribution, and $746.00 has been collected thus far for Heifer International. If you want to contribute to either of these collections, please bring your donation to the office.
• Benevolence sent monetary Christmas gifts to Cloisters, Community Action, Crossroads, East Side, Kirkhaven (Rochester Presbyterian), SNF, and the Teresa House. Money was also donated to StarBurst and to the Furnace Fund.
• Success!! The Furnace Fund now contains $1,995.00!
• Two very brave members of our congregation-Mary Rase and Barb Meyer- have volunteered to help clean and inventory the kitchen in January. A few more hardy souls are needed before we set the date. Any takers? Call George Ann Carter (786-2169) to volunteer.

Coming Events:

February 10: Hearts for Honduras Collection:  Jim Carter’s sister, Judy Toner, who reported to us about this mission project (part of the UCC) last year leaves for Honduras the last 2 weeks in February. She will take the money we collect for many on-going projects.

Church Meetings:

·         65^th Annual Meeting – Sunday January 20^th  - following worship-The 65^th Annual Meeting of the Corporation and Congregation of the United Church of Warsaw will take place on Sunday, January 20^th immediately following worship.  Please have all necessary Annual Reports submitted to the church office no later than Friday, January 11^th. 

Music at U.C.W.

• The Chancel Hand-bell Choir will be practicing on January 6, 13, and 27^th from 11:30-12:30 in the sanctuary.
• There will be a Worship and Memorial Committee meeting on January 14^th at 7:00 p.m.

Greetings From Starburst:

December was such a fun month at preschool.  We anxiously prepared for Christmas, decorating the Christmas tree, singing carols at the Cloisters, Wal-Mart and Tops market, and trying to think of others before ourselves. This month we settle into the quietness of winter by learning about dinosaurs (maybe not so quiet!), penguins, and Epiphany. So if the winter gets a little too quiet for you – come pay a visit to Starburst…

Happy January!

Larene

 

Worship in January:

Sunday January 6^th:  Festival of Epiphany

                                    Communion/Food Pantry Sunday

Matthew 2: 1-12

Sunday January 13^th:  The Baptism of Christ

                                    Crossroads Sunday

                                    Matthew 3: 13-17

Sunday January 20^th:  The Second Sunday After Epiphany

                                    Ecumenical Sunday

                                    John 1: 29-42

                                    Annual Meeting to follow worship

Sunday January 27^th:  The Third Sunday After Epiphany

                                    Family Service/Youth Ministry Sunday

                                    Contemporary Worship

                                    Matthew 4: 12-23

 

The Results Are In!

When asked the following questions, your responses were as follows:

The United Church of Warsaw will celebrate its 200^th year on Sunday July 13^th, 2008. Lynn Saxton and Suzenne Miller are working on a celebration of this momentous event.

1. Would you be willing to serve on a committee to plan and implement the celebration?

                                    Yes: 20  No: 4

2. Are there family mementos such as photographs, old programs, directories etc. of historical significance to the church that you would be willing to loan for the celebration?

                                    Yes: 4   No: 8

3. Would you be willing to share your written or oral memories of the church to be included in the celebration?

                                    Yes: 8    No: 3

4. Would you be willing to be part of a creative “Ken Burns” style church documentary?

                                    Yes:4    No: 3

Comments:

” Please start the committee planning in January.”

” I would like to see a picture/ history book for a fund raiser. I think there are pictures in the church.”

 

The Results are In!

When asked the following questions, you replied:

1. I would like to receive the church newsletter:

Quarterly:         Once per month: 40      Twice per month: 3

2. Instead of receiving a paper newsletter, I would rather read the newsletter on the church website:

Yes:     3                      No: 40

3. Regarding the announcements made during the church service, please check all the responses that you agree with:

• The announcements are an important part of building community in our church family, and should take as long as they take: 23
• The announcements are an important part of building community in our church family, but currently take up too much worship time. They can be contained by doing one/some of the following: 18
  • All announcements must be written down and read by the liturgist, not given by individuals: 4
  • Announcements can be given by a variety of individuals who come forward and are seated in the chancel prior to the start of worship, and have a specific time limit for the announcement: 19
  • The announcement time is moved to 5 minutes prior to worship starting: 6
  • The announcement time is moved to the end of the service: 3

4. It is important to me that worship service finishes within 60 minutes:

            Yes:     8                      No: 34

5.We plan to make a new church photo directory in 2008. The best time for the photographs to be taken is:

Winter-we get a better deal:      26        Spring-better weather:  13

  

  

  

When Less Creates Spaces for More

“Tis the season to be jolly” – no, scratch that – the reality for most of us is: “Tis the season to be frantic!”  This is absolutely the busiest time of the year.  There are parties and special activities to enjoy (concerts, plays, etc. etc. etc.).  Family gatherings to plan and attend (and sometimes referee)…the Christmas cards to write…the presents to buy and wrap… food to prepare…and services to attend at church and in the community.  All these things can be very enjoyable. 

So why is it that so many of us enter the month of December feeling overwhelmed and exhausted just thinking about what awaits us? Why does something that is meant to bring us peace and joy leave us feeling so frantic and overextended?  Perhaps the reason is that we are so busy celebrating Christmas from one end of December ‘til the other that we miss the opportunity to observe the special season that takes place before December 25^th – Advent.

Advent provides a remarkable opportunity for people to do what we really need to do – dial down the drama, slow down and wake up to what really matters  – to step back from the hustle and bustle of life and quietly prepare a place in our hearts and lives for the Christ Child.  It is a time to engage in things that have true and lasting meaning, not just things that glitter because of tinsel and blinking lights.  It is the heart and soul of our journey as Christians – God loving us so much that God chooses a human birth into poverty so that Jesus would be Lord of all, not just Lord of a privileged few.   This kind of awesome good news requires peace and time to soak deeply into our souls.  Unless we stop and allow our hearts to pay attention to this joyous good news, we can miss the true blessings of this special time by being distracted by the lovely, lesser joys the holiday brings – tinsel instead of true treasure.

This good news also requires a response, and until we slow down enough to fully grasp the gift God offers each one of us at Christmas, our hearts will not be truly touched, and our response will be superficial.  The miracle of Christmas is its capacity to change and transform us- if we allow that to happen.  From that place of transformation we can then respond to the world around us with hearts on fire with love, compassion and mercy.My challenge to us all this December is to do less of what we normally do, so there is space and time to do more of what really matters.  Spend less time racing around attending many activities, and instead pick just a few that are meaningful and truly enjoy them.  Send fewer cards (giving the environment a break), and instead, have meaningful contact with people.  Spend less money on gifts that people do not need, and instead, give gifts that can make a difference in the lives of those who truly are in need.  For example, instead of getting your favorite Uncle yet another tie, go to resources like http://www.churchworldservice.org/ or http://www.seva.org/ or http://www.worldvisiongifts.org/ and give a gift of compassion in honor of the people you love- like safe drinking water, or a school kit for children, or sight-saving surgery for someone who is blind.  This type of gift would make the Christ child smile.  And as you live out Christ’s call to be loving and compassionate, pay attention to those around you who may be experiencing isolation, loneliness and depression during the long nights of December and January, and remember to include them in your circle of care.

By taking steps this Advent to do less, you will have the opportunity to have and do so much more this holiday season – more time to spend in meaningful activities with those you love, a more compassionate response to those who are in need (and to the environment), and more opportunities to prepare your heart to receive the Christ child and to be transformed by the miracle of Christmas…which is what this season is all about.

May you and your loved ones have a blessed, miraculous Advent and Christmastide.

With love and prayers,

Kim

Pastor’s Study Group -  “Unplug The Xmas Machine”

• The Pastor’s Study Group will meet on Thursday Dec 6^th at 7 pm  to look at the material in the book “Unplug The Xmas Machine.”  Please join us for an important discussion about how to simplify and open our hearts and lives to a meaningful holiday season.

Minister’s Days Away

• Pastor Kim takes Friday and Saturday as her days off each week, unless there is an emergency or important church activity scheduled for those days.  In case of an emergency, please call her at the manse:  786-5687.

Community/Church Announcements:

• Come help get our church building ready for the beautiful season of Advent and Christmas! We will be having a workday on Saturday, December 1^st beginning at 9:00 a.m. All are welcome to come and enjoy working together to prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth!
• We have purchased a special selection of Care Notes that deal with issues specific to the holiday season, including such topics as “Living With Loss While Others Are Celebrating”, “Feeling Depressed At Christmastime,” “Facing The Holidays When A Family Member Is Seriously Ill, ” Celebrating the Holidays Despite Being in a Healthcare Facility,” and “Your First Christmas After a Loved One Dies.”  You will find the Holiday Care Notes in the Care Note Display across from the main entrance to the connection (near the East Room).  Please feel free to take the Care Notes for yourself or for someone who may benefit from them.  If you like the Care Note ministry and would like to make a donation towards the purchase of future Care Notes, your generosity is greatly appreciated.
• The dark days of winter and the holiday season can be a difficult time for people, especially those who are dealing with loss, isolation, or health concerns.  Please pay attention to those in your circle of care who may struggle during this time of year – especially neighbors and friends – and make sure that all who are facing difficulties have the support they need.  Contact Pastor Kim at 786-3868 if you know of anyone who is in need of pastoral support.
• Our church will host the Community World AIDS Day Service on Saturday, December 1^st. Prior to the service at 5:30 pm we will have the opportunity to watch the award-winning DVD – “A Closer Walk”. Please join us for this important event
• The Personnel Committee and Session are pleased to introduce Addie Silbert as the new Administrative Assistant for our busy church family. Addie began work on November 12^th, and is already finding her way around and helping to see that all forms of communication flow efficiently and effectively through our church office. You will read more about Addie later in the Newsletter – please take the time to welcome her to the United Church family.
• College Students: We are anxious to update the records we have for our college students and our military personnel. If you know of anyone who is related to our church who is either in college (at home or away from home) or serving in the military, please provide the church office with their contact details. We want to make sure we can keep them in our prayers, and keep in touch with them.
• Assisted Living: Rev Kim is compiling a master list of all those who require regular pastoral care, especially those who are currently home-bound, in nursing homes, hospice, hospitals, or assisted living facilities.  If your or your loved one has not yet received a visit from Rev Kim, it may be because she does not know you are in need of a visit.  Please contact the church office (786-3868) to let her know of any people who are in need of a pastoral visit.
• Food Pantry: Each month on Communion Sunday we will celebrate the ministry of the Food Pantry by having a special collection.  The week prior to the collection we will list in the Bulletin any specific needs the pantry has.  Of course you are welcome to bring your contributions at any time, but we will take a special collection on Food Pantry Sunday.  There will be a box to collect your donations at the doors when you enter the sanctuary.  During the first hymn, the children and youth of the church will bring the gifts forward and put them before the communion table.  In this way we hope to make the contributions visible, and help our children to learn about this important ministry of our church and community.
• Publicity Policy: In order to insure the best communication and coordination possible, all publicity related to church sponsored activities must go through the church office prior to publication.  This applies even when other parties are donating the publicity.  In this way, we will have the best possible coordination of all publicity.  If you have any questions, please speak with the Clerk of Session, Jim Carter (786-2169) or Pastor Kim.
• Presbytery Commissioner: Our church is in need of a Commissioner to attend the Presbytery meetings (5 scheduled meetings each year plus extra meetings scheduled).  If one person is unable to do this, we could have a small team of commissioners who share the responsibility.  If you are interested in this type of ministry, please speak with Jim Carter (786-2169).
• Family Services: The fourth Sunday of every month (12/23 in December) is Family Service Sunday. On these Sundays the entire church family will worship together – there will be no Sunday School. The service will be shorter in length and be designed in such a way as to allow participation of all age groups. We hope that our children and youth will learn that they are not only part of the Sunday School and Youth Group, but are also an important part of the worshipping community that gathers on Sunday morning – and thus build a worship habit that will hopefully carry over into adulthood! We also honor the example and spirit of Jesus, who said: “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” Thank goodness for our children, who are here to teach us what it means to enter the kingdom!

• On behalf of our church family, we thank all those who faithfully volunteered to staff the church office during the recent vacancy:
  Mike Murdie (who was here almost every day!)
  Sandy Corey
  Jean White
  Hope Rase
  and Jim Carter

Season’s Greeting’s From Starburst:

Operation Christmas Child Update:

Many, many thanks to all who generously gave Christmas shoeboxes for the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox ministry.  We can only imagine the power of these simple gifts when placed in the hands of a loving God.

Whether they are refugees of civil war, survivors of a natural disaster, or victims of extreme poverty, these little ones need to know that they are precious to God.  That’s the motivation behind Operation Christmas Child, the unique project of Samaritan’s Purse that enables caring people to share God’s love with hurting girls and boys in the far corners of the globe.

As you may know our church serves as a relay center, collecting shoeboxes from our community.   Last year we were able to transport 491 boxes to the collection center in Batavia.  This year, hoping to exceed that number by just 9 boxes – we were blessed to collect 616 boxes!!!  What a thrill to be in His service!   Thanks so much!

What a very busy and joyful time of year at preschool! We happily served about 170 people at our Starburst Feast of Thanksgiving.  A most wonderful group of parents donated and helped to prepare the food and clean up afterwards.  And what fun they had in the kitchen. (Except one who was overheard saying, “I vote we all donate $10.00 and have this catered next year!”:-) )

Special thanks to Jim and George-Ann Carter who just happened to be at the right place at the right time! Their help was very appreciated. We truly have so much for which to be thankful!  December will be a delight as well, as we herald the birth of Jesus with a Christmas program on Wednesday, December 19^th at 10:30 A.M.  You are all invited. Prior to that day we will sing at Wal-Mart and the Cloisters on Dec. 12^th.So, if you would like to add a very special touch to your own celebration of Christmas come to any of our caroling events and hear the voices of our Starburst “stars” as we give our birthday gift to our Lord.  May you all be blessed by the gift of our Savior.

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

                                                           ~Larene

A little from Addie:

I just want to take a minute to tell you a little bit about myself. I am a graduate from Houghton College, and I was recently married this past August to a wonderful man named Andrew. I grew up right between Jamestown NY and Erie PA, in a town called Clymer. I have been blessed with a wonderful family, which I am truly grateful for, and now a new and wonderful opportunity. Please don’t hesitate to stop in and say hello, I look forward to meeting all of you!

Music at U.C.W.

• The Chancel Hand-bell Choir will be meeting every Sunday in December except for the 31^st from 11:30-12:30 in the Sanctuary. They will play on  the 2^nd and the 30^th.
• The Ensemble will sing on December 9^th, 23^rd and at the Christmas Eve Service at 11p.m.

Youth Ministry Updates:

Youth Group Meets

Sunday Nights from 6:30-7:30

Come join us, bring a friend!

• Youth Group will meet on Dec 2^nd, 9^th, and 16^th, then take a break for the holidays.
• The Youth Group continues to meet each Sunday for fellowship, inspiration, and opportunities for service. Attendance ranges between 6 and 20, depending on the night, and volunteer advisors are working together to see that the youth have the best possible experience here at their church. Discussions about the focus and future of the youth ministry program are ongoing, but the commitment to provide the best possible experience for our youth is clearly present.
• At the youth group meeting on November 25^th, our young people began training as Assistant Sound Technicians.  They can now assist with the sound ministry for Sunday worship, working as apprentices with our Sound Technicians.  Any youth who would like to participate in this ministry but missed the orientation should let Addie in the church office know that they want to be included as an Assistant Sound Technician. 

Church Meetings:

• Committee formed to explore feasibility of hiring youth pastor:

For many years leaders in our church have wondered if the best way to minister to our youth would be to hire a youth pastor.  In response to this question, Session has formed an exploratory committee that will look at all aspects of this issue, and report back to Session as soon as they are able.  The committee convener is Gary Burley, and they will have their first organizational meeting in December.  Please keep them in your prayers as they gather important information on behalf of the church.  Should the church decide to proceed with hiring a youth pastor, a member of the congregation has pledged $ 1,000 towards the salary of the pastor – with the understanding that the $ 1,000 needs to be matched by the congregation for the pledge to be received. Thank you to all who support the youth ministry in any way.

• Meeting Nights at the Church:

In order to keep meeting nights consistent and allow all of us to have more time with our families, Monday and Thursday nights have been designated as church meeting nights.  The Boards will meet as follows throughout the month:

• First Monday-Benevolence
• Third Monday- Trustees
• Fourth Monday-Session

This allows the boards of the church to report to Session.

• The Pastor’s Study Group will meet the first and third Thursdays of the month.  This allows committee meetings to take place on the other Thursday evenings, or, in the case of an emergence, after church on Sunday.

Warsaw Food Pantry Report:

During October, we had 92 families consisting of 157 adults, 92 children and 35 seniors for a total of 284 people.

There were 13 new families.

We had the following donations:

Full Gospel Church- $25.00

Wyoming Co. Vets-Ladies Auxilary-$100.00

Randy Sitarek-10 bushels of apples

Marge Yarrington-food

Ed & Marion Fisher-Veggies

U.S. Post Office-Samples

Warsaw Junior Tigers-large amount of food

U.C.W. congregation-food

St. Michael’s Church-food

WCS-Elementary Student Council-food

WCS-Homecoming Football game-food

Bill & Diane Santora-food

Trisha Morris-Kopinski & Welches-Veggies

Virginia Warren-$30.00

Wyoming Co. Comm. Hospital-food

United Methodist Church-food

Immanuel Methodist Church-food

Silver Lake Sportsmen’s Club-$1,000.00

There were other items left anonymously in connection.

Respectfully submitted,

Joyce Neeley

Board Of Benevolence News Update:

Updates:

• The Spaghetti Dinner netted $528.49 which was split between Wyoming County Habitat for Humanity and the Youth Group.  Although the Chicken BBQ lost $63.70, some food was used at Reverend Cran’s Installation dinner, and some will be used at future events because we were able to freeze it. 
• Thank you to all who donated to make the “Buy a Table or Seat” campaign successful!  With the extra money received, we were able to purchase plastic pitchers, which went into use for our Thanksgiving Dinner.  Did you notice them?
•  $440 was contributed to our blanket fund, which means 88 blankets will be distributed around the world to people in distress because of the generosity of the United Church of Warsaw. 
• About 60 Christmas boxes were donated to Samaritan’s Purse by our congregation.  Imagine how pleased many children will be because of these gifts!  Thanks to Larene McCabe for her dedication to this annual project!
• Our annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner, which fed approximately 170 people, was a delicious event!  It was gratifying to see our congregation mingling with so many Warsaw area residents.
•  Proceeds from donations for this event will go into the campership fund. Special thanks go to cooks Bob Blake, Bill Cran, Steve Meyer, and Steve Perkins. All those who donated/prepared food, and all those who worked at a variety of tasks, we say thank you! Clean up was accomplished by many willing hands. The “bitter-end” award goes to Linda and Jeff Thomas who mopped the kitchen floor (along with the many other jobs they did) and turned out the lights.
• The Board of Benevolence purchased the lighted sign, which has begun to announce church activities. Donations will gladly be accepted.

Coming Events:

 All You Can Eat Brunch

Sunday, December 2, 2007

11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

All you can eat–$8 (adult), $4.50 (child 10/under)

Please sign up to work or to provide certain food items,including sweet breads and muffins.(Money earned from this fundraiser will go into the fund for the purchase of a new kitchen hood which the church will be required to install.)

• For kids of all ages who want to see and feel the Spirit in action:Christmas cookie baking in the church kitchen:  Friday, December 14 at 7 p.m. If you are unable to join in the baking at church, you may still want to donate some of your Christmas sweets for our  cookie platters which will be delivered to shut-ins. Please bring your cookies to the church on Friday during the day or after 7 p.m. Platters will be assembled on Saturday at 1 p.m.
• Christmas caroling:  Saturday, December 15 at 2 p.m. Join us to surprise shut-ins and others with beautiful Christmas hymns and songs as platters of yummy cookies are delivered to them.  Needed for this event are people willing to sing Christmas music around the Warsaw area and drivers to transport them.  A sign up sheet will found in the East Room to help Benevolence coordinate this activity.If you know anyone who would appreciate cookies and caroling or a Christmas card, please call the church office (786-3868) with names and addresses.
• White Gift Service Sunday, December 16, 2007 Head Start has again requested that we donate books for the children.  Benevolence is also asking for hats and mittens or gloves be provided for these youngsters.  Please wrap the books in white paper and lay them at the manger during the Christmas pageant.  A tree will be set up in the East Room for the hats, gloves/mittens. 
• Money donated to our annual White Gift will again be sent to Heifer International in order to purchase animals which help families around the world become self-reliant.  Last year our congregation purchased a heifer, two goats, a water buffalo, 2 sheep, and 2 llamas-a bargain at $1500!  What can we do this year?
•  Surprise!  No one volunteered to help clean and inventory the kitchen, so our clean-up campaign will have to become more personal–a tap on the shoulder perhaps.  If you are able to help, please contact George Ann Carter (786-2169), or call the church office (786-3868).  This not-so-desired job is in real need of being accomplished.  We’re looking at January.
• Alzheimer’s Association-The compassion to care, the leadership to conquer Caregiver Support Group-Wyoming County. For caregivers of persons with dementia: The group meets to discuss care giving, exchange resources, and provide support and encouragement to others who are faced with the challenge of dementia. DATE:  The last Thursday of every month. TIME:  5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. LOCATION:  Wyoming County Office for the Aging. 8 Perry Avenue, Warsaw. For more information, please call Leilani Pelletier at the Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York at (800) 272-3900 or visit our website at www.alzwny.org
  

  December Birthdays & Anniversaries

  7         Steve & Donna Perkins – 1996

  15     Deb & Bill Mammosser – 2001

  16     Thomas & Cindy Flint – 1977

  20     Lynn & Richard Saxton – 2003

  23     Jeff & Sandy Bush – 1990

  27     Ralph & Verna Schneckenburger – 1986

               Michael & Pat Griffith – 1986

        28   Steve & Barbara Meyer – 1985

6^th William Cummins, William Hulme & Lester Bush

7^th Michael Cummins, Jamie Montgomery

10^th Arlene Baker & Kate Sheer

12^th Colin Almay, Ellen Chandler & Cheryl Daniel

13^th Robert Chandler, Eunice Dills & Karl Kunze

14^th Agnes Wilcox

15^th Betty Burley

16^th Sharyn Vandegenachte, Haley Bleyle, Robert Bleyle,

17^th Patrick Chandler & Allison Packard

18^th-Anna Marie Flint & Holly Mager

20^thDebbie Mammosser

22^nd-Mary Crist & Meghan Coogan

23^rd Barbara Humphrey

24^th Dennis Grove & Nancy Stout

Milestones In Our Church Family

New Members:

• Timothy Logsdon and Carolyn Sprague – Joined the church on Nov 18

Baptisms:

• Elizabeth Grace Wood, daughter of Jared and Christine Wood, was baptized on October 21st.

Deaths:

Our prayerful sympathy is extended to the family of Mrs. Elsie James, who died on November 7th, after a long illness bravely fought.  “May the souls of the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”

 

A time to Reflect

….if the Christ is born in Bethlehem a million times, and trudges the dusty roads of Palestine, preaching for a million years, but is not born in your heart and life- and in my heart and life- then what difference does the Gospel make? But if you and I are crucified with the Christ and yet we live because he lives in us, then the good news is true: God is for us. God is with us. God is in us. God is among us. And we are thankful.

-Lowell D. Streiker, Pastor’s Complete Handbook of Model Sermons

What’s Happening at U.C.W. in December!

FOR THE MONTH OF December

Head Greeter                      Cathie Murdie

Head Usher                        Linda James

Fellowship Hour Coordinator          Brenda Blake

Acolytes

Dec 2^nd- Chris Meyer 322-7396

Dec. 9^th-Karl Kunze 495-6797

Dec 16^th Ben Ghise 495-6029

Dec 23^rd Cassandra Blake 786-5398

Dec 24^th Mary Kunze 495-6797

Dec 30^th Mallory Murdie 786-0003

Liturgists

Dec 2^nd-Lou Ghise 495-6029

Dec 9^th- Kate Sheer 786-5432

Dec 16^th- Steve Perkins-786-5432

Dec. 23^rd Ellen Chandler- 786-2845

Dec. 24^th Hans Kunze- 495-6797

11 p.m. service-Bob Cummins 786-9981

Dec 30^th George Ann Carter 786-2169

Assistant Sound Technician

Dec 2nd-Cassandra Blake 786-5398

Dec 9^th- Alyssa Aldrich-786-5064

Dec 16^th- Demitre Dahl 786-9276

 Dec 23^rd-Karl Kunze 495-6797

 Dec 30^th-Robbie Blake 786-5398

December 2007 Newsletter

Thoughts From Kim…

When Less Creates Spaces for More

“Tis the season to be jolly” – no, scratch that – the reality for most of us is: “Tis the season to be frantic!” This is absolutely the busiest time of the year. There are parties and special activities to enjoy (concerts, plays, etc. etc. etc.). Family gatherings to plan and attend (and sometimes referee)…the Christmas cards to write…the presents to buy and wrap… food to prepare…and services to attend at church and in the community. All these things can be very enjoyable.

So why is it that so many of us enter the month of December feeling overwhelmed and exhausted just thinking about what awaits us? Why does something that is meant to bring us peace and joy leave us feeling so frantic and overextended? Perhaps the reason is that we are so busy celebrating Christmas from one end of December ‘til the other that we miss the opportunity to observe the special season that takes place before December 25^th – Advent.

Advent provides a remarkable opportunity for people to do what we really need to do – dial down the drama, slow down and wake up to what really matters – to step back from the hustle and bustle of life and quietly prepare a place in our hearts and lives for the Christ Child. It is a time to engage in things that have true and lasting meaning, not just things that glitter because of tinsel and blinking lights. It is the heart and soul of our journey as Christians – God loving us so much that God chooses a human birth into poverty so that Jesus would be Lord of all, not just Lord of a privileged few. This kind of awesome good news requires peace and time to soak deeply into our souls. Unless we stop and allow our hearts to pay attention to this joyous good news, we can miss the true blessings of this special time by being distracted by the lovely, lesser joys the holiday brings – tinsel instead of true treasure.

This good news also requires a response, and until we slow down enough to fully grasp the gift God offers each one of us at Christmas, our hearts will not be truly touched, and our response will be superficial. The miracle of Christmas is its capacity to change and transform us- if we allow that to happen. From that place of transformation we can then respond to the world around us with hearts on fire with love, compassion and mercy.My challenge to us all this December is to do less of what we normally do, so there is space and time to do more of what really matters. Spend less time racing around attending many activities, and instead pick just a few that are meaningful and truly enjoy them. Send fewer cards (giving the environment a break), and instead, have meaningful contact with people. Spend less money on gifts that people do not need, and instead, give gifts that can make a difference in the lives of those who truly are in need. For example, instead of getting your favorite Uncle yet another tie, go to resources like http://www.churchworldservice.org/ or http://www.seva.org/ or http://www.worldvisiongifts.org/ and give a gift of compassion in honor of the people you love- like safe drinking water, or a school kit for children, or sight-saving surgery for someone who is blind. This type of gift would make the Christ child smile. And as you live out Christ’s call to be loving and compassionate, pay attention to those around you who may be experiencing isolation, loneliness and depression during the long nights of December and January, and remember to include them in your circle of care.

By taking steps this Advent to do less, you will have the opportunity to have and do so much more this holiday season – more time to spend in meaningful activities with those you love, a more compassionate response to those who are in need (and to the environment), and more opportunities to prepare your heart to receive the Christ child and to be transformed by the miracle of Christmas…which is what this season is all about.

May you and your loved ones have a blessed, miraculous Advent and Christmastide.

With love and prayers,

Kim

Pastor’s Study Group – “Unplug The Xmas Machine”

• The Pastor’s Study Group will meet on Thursday Dec 6^th at 7 pm to look at the material in the book “Unplug The Xmas Machine.” Please join us for an important discussion about how to simplify and open our hearts and lives to a meaningful holiday season.

Minister’s Days Away

• Pastor Kim takes Friday and Saturday as her days off each week, unless there is an emergency or important church activity scheduled for those days. In case of an emergency, please call her at the manse: 786-5687.

Community/Church Announcements:

• Come help get our church building ready for the beautiful season of Advent and Christmas! We will be having a workday on Saturday, December 1^st beginning at 9:00 a.m. All are welcome to come and enjoy working together to prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth!
• We have purchased a special selection of Care Notes that deal with issues specific to the holiday season, including such topics as “Living With Loss While Others Are Celebrating”, “Feeling Depressed At Christmastime,” “Facing The Holidays When A Family Member Is Seriously Ill, ” Celebrating the Holidays Despite Being in a Healthcare Facility,” and “Your First Christmas After a Loved One Dies.” You will find the Holiday Care Notes in the Care Note Display across from the main entrance to the connection (near the East Room). Please feel free to take the Care Notes for yourself or for someone who may benefit from them. If you like the Care Note ministry and would like to make a donation towards the purchase of future Care Notes, your generosity is greatly appreciated.
• The dark days of winter and the holiday season can be a difficult time for people, especially those who are dealing with loss, isolation, or health concerns. Please pay attention to those in your circle of care who may struggle during this time of year – especially neighbors and friends – and make sure that all who are facing difficulties have the support they need. Contact Pastor Kim at 786-3868 if you know of anyone who is in need of pastoral support.
• Our church will host the Community World AIDS Day Service on Saturday, December 1^st. Prior to the service at 5:30 pm we will have the opportunity to watch the award-winning DVD – “A Closer Walk”. Please join us for this important event
• The Personnel Committee and Session are pleased to introduce Addie Silbert as the new Administrative Assistant for our busy church family. Addie began work on November 12^th, and is already finding her way around and helping to see that all forms of communication flow efficiently and effectively through our church office. You will read more about Addie later in the Newsletter – please take the time to welcome her to the United Church family.
• College Students: We are anxious to update the records we have for our college students and our military personnel. If you know of anyone who is related to our church who is either in college (at home or away from home) or serving in the military, please provide the church office with their contact details. We want to make sure we can keep them in our prayers, and keep in touch with them.
• Assisted Living: Rev Kim is compiling a master list of all those who require regular pastoral care, especially those who are currently home-bound, in nursing homes, hospice, hospitals, or assisted living facilities. If your or your loved one has not yet received a visit from Rev Kim, it may be because she does not know you are in need of a visit. Please contact the church office (786-3868) to let her know of any people who are in need of a pastoral visit.
• Food Pantry: Each month on Communion Sunday we will celebrate the ministry of the Food Pantry by having a special collection. The week prior to the collection we will list in the Bulletin any specific needs the pantry has. Of course you are welcome to bring your contributions at any time, but we will take a special collection on Food Pantry Sunday. There will be a box to collect your donations at the doors when you enter the sanctuary. During the first hymn, the children and youth of the church will bring the gifts forward and put them before the communion table. In this way we hope to make the contributions visible, and help our children to learn about this important ministry of our church and community.
• Publicity Policy: In order to insure the best communication and coordination possible, all publicity related to church sponsored activities must go through the church office prior to publication. This applies even when other parties are donating the publicity. In this way, we will have the best possible coordination of all publicity. If you have any questions, please speak with the Clerk of Session, Jim Carter (786-2169) or Pastor Kim.
• Presbytery Commissioner: Our church is in need of a Commissioner to attend the Presbytery meetings (5 scheduled meetings each year plus extra meetings scheduled). If one person is unable to do this, we could have a small team of commissioners who share the responsibility. If you are interested in this type of ministry, please speak with Jim Carter (786-2169).
• Family Services: The fourth Sunday of every month (12/23 in December) is Family Service Sunday. On these Sundays the entire church family will worship together – there will be no Sunday School. The service will be shorter in length and be designed in such a way as to allow participation of all age groups. We hope that our children and youth will learn that they are not only part of the Sunday School and Youth Group, but are also an important part of the worshipping community that gathers on Sunday morning – and thus build a worship habit that will hopefully carry over into adulthood! We also honor the example and spirit of Jesus, who said: “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” Thank goodness for our children, who are here to teach us what it means to enter the kingdom!

• On behalf of our church family, we thank all those who faithfully volunteered to staff the church office during the recent vacancy:
  Mike Murdie (who was here almost every day!)
  Sandy Corey
  Jean White
  Hope Rase
  and Jim Carter

Season’s Greeting’s From Starburst:

Operation Christmas Child Update:

Many, many thanks to all who generously gave Christmas shoeboxes for the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox ministry. We can only imagine the power of these simple gifts when placed in the hands of a loving God.

Whether they are refugees of civil war, survivors of a natural disaster, or victims of extreme poverty, these little ones need to know that they are precious to God. That’s the motivation behind Operation Christmas Child, the unique project of Samaritan’s Purse that enables caring people to share God’s love with hurting girls and boys in the far corners of the globe.

As you may know our church serves as a relay center, collecting shoeboxes from our community. Last year we were able to transport 491 boxes to the collection center in Batavia. This year, hoping to exceed that number by just 9 boxes – we were blessed to collect 616 boxes!!! What a thrill to be in His service! Thanks so much!

What a very busy and joyful time of year at preschool! We happily served about 170 people at our Starburst Feast of Thanksgiving. A most wonderful group of parents donated and helped to prepare the food and clean up afterwards. And what fun they had in the kitchen. (Except one who was overheard saying, “I vote we all donate $10.00 and have this catered next year!”:-) )

Special thanks to Jim and George-Ann Carter who just happened to be at the right place at the right time! Their help was very appreciated. We truly have so much for which to be thankful! December will be a delight as well, as we herald the birth of Jesus with a Christmas program on Wednesday, December 19^th at 10:30 A.M. You are all invited. Prior to that day we will sing at Wal-Mart and the Cloisters on Dec. 12^th.So, if you would like to add a very special touch to your own celebration of Christmas come to any of our caroling events and hear the voices of our Starburst “stars” as we give our birthday gift to our Lord. May you all be blessed by the gift of our Savior.

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

~Larene

A little from Addie:

I just want to take a minute to tell you a little bit about myself. I am a graduate from Houghton College, and I was recently married this past August to a wonderful man named Andrew. I grew up right between Jamestown NY and Erie PA, in a town called Clymer. I have been blessed with a wonderful family, which I am truly grateful for, and now a new and wonderful opportunity. Please don’t hesitate to stop in and say hello, I look forward to meeting all of you!

Music at U.C.W.

• The Chancel Hand-bell Choir will be meeting every Sunday in December except for the 31^st from 11:30-12:30 in the Sanctuary. They will play on the 2^nd and the 30^th.
• The Ensemble will sing on December 9^th, 23^rd and at the Christmas Eve Service at 11p.m.

Youth Ministry Updates:

Youth Group Meets

Sunday Nights from 6:30-7:30

Come join us, bring a friend!

• Youth Group will meet on Dec 2^nd, 9^th, and 16^th, then take a break for the holidays.
• The Youth Group continues to meet each Sunday for fellowship, inspiration, and opportunities for service. Attendance ranges between 6 and 20, depending on the night, and volunteer advisors are working together to see that the youth have the best possible experience here at their church. Discussions about the focus and future of the youth ministry program are ongoing, but the commitment to provide the best possible experience for our youth is clearly present.
• At the youth group meeting on November 25^th, our young people began training as Assistant Sound Technicians. They can now assist with the sound ministry for Sunday worship, working as apprentices with our Sound Technicians. Any youth who would like to participate in this ministry but missed the orientation should let Addie in the church office know that they want to be included as an Assistant Sound Technician.

Church Meetings:

• Committee formed to explore feasibility of hiring youth pastor:

For many years leaders in our church have wondered if the best way to minister to our youth would be to hire a youth pastor. In response to this question, Session has formed an exploratory committee that will look at all aspects of this issue, and report back to Session as soon as they are able. The committee convener is Gary Burley, and they will have their first organizational meeting in December. Please keep them in your prayers as they gather important information on behalf of the church. Should the church decide to proceed with hiring a youth pastor, a member of the congregation has pledged $ 1,000 towards the salary of the pastor – with the understanding that the $ 1,000 needs to be matched by the congregation for the pledge to be received. Thank you to all who support the youth ministry in any way.

• Meeting Nights at the Church:

In order to keep meeting nights consistent and allow all of us to have more time with our families, Monday and Thursday nights have been designated as church meeting nights. The Boards will meet as follows throughout the month:

• First Monday-Benevolence
• Third Monday- Trustees
• Fourth Monday-Session

This allows the boards of the church to report to Session.

• The Pastor’s Study Group will meet the first and third Thursdays of the month. This allows committee meetings to take place on the other Thursday evenings, or, in the case of an emergence, after church on Sunday.

Warsaw Food Pantry Report:

During October, we had 92 families consisting of 157 adults, 92 children and 35 seniors for a total of 284 people.

There were 13 new families.

We had the following donations:

Full Gospel Church- $25.00

Wyoming Co. Vets-Ladies Auxilary-$100.00

Randy Sitarek-10 bushels of apples

Marge Yarrington-food

Ed & Marion Fisher-Veggies

U.S. Post Office-Samples

Warsaw Junior Tigers-large amount of food

U.C.W. congregation-food

St. Michael’s Church-food

WCS-Elementary Student Council-food

WCS-Homecoming Football game-food

Bill & Diane Santora-food

Trisha Morris-Kopinski & Welches-Veggies

Virginia Warren-$30.00

Wyoming Co. Comm. Hospital-food

United Methodist Church-food

Immanuel Methodist Church-food

Silver Lake Sportsmen’s Club-$1,000.00

There were other items left anonymously in connection.

Respectfully submitted,

Joyce Neeley

Board Of Benevolence News Update:

Updates:

• The Spaghetti Dinner netted $528.49 which was split between Wyoming County Habitat for Humanity and the Youth Group. Although the Chicken BBQ lost $63.70, some food was used at Reverend Cran’s Installation dinner, and some will be used at future events because we were able to freeze it.
• Thank you to all who donated to make the “Buy a Table or Seat” campaign successful! With the extra money received, we were able to purchase plastic pitchers, which went into use for our Thanksgiving Dinner. Did you notice them?
• $440 was contributed to our blanket fund, which means 88 blankets will be distributed around the world to people in distress because of the generosity of the United Church of Warsaw.
• About 60 Christmas boxes were donated to Samaritan’s Purse by our congregation. Imagine how pleased many children will be because of these gifts! Thanks to Larene McCabe for her dedication to this annual project!
• Our annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner, which fed approximately 170 people, was a delicious event! It was gratifying to see our congregation mingling with so many Warsaw area residents.
• Proceeds from donations for this event will go into the campership fund. Special thanks go to cooks Bob Blake, Bill Cran, Steve Meyer, and Steve Perkins. All those who donated/prepared food, and all those who worked at a variety of tasks, we say thank you! Clean up was accomplished by many willing hands. The “bitter-end” award goes to Linda and Jeff Thomas who mopped the kitchen floor (along with the many other jobs they did) and turned out the lights.
• The Board of Benevolence purchased the lighted sign, which has begun to announce church activities. Donations will gladly be accepted.

Coming Events:

All You Can Eat Brunch

Sunday, December 2, 2007

11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

All you can eat-$8 (adult), $4.50 (child 10/under)

Please sign up to work or to provide certain food items,including sweet breads and muffins.(Money earned from this fundraiser will go into the fund for the purchase of a new kitchen hood which the church will be required to install.)

• For kids of all ages who want to see and feel the Spirit in action:Christmas cookie baking in the church kitchen: Friday, December 14 at 7 p.m. If you are unable to join in the baking at church, you may still want to donate some of your Christmas sweets for our cookie platters which will be delivered to shut-ins. Please bring your cookies to the church on Friday during the day or after 7 p.m. Platters will be assembled on Saturday at 1 p.m.
• Christmas caroling: Saturday, December 15 at 2 p.m. Join us to surprise shut-ins and others with beautiful Christmas hymns and songs as platters of yummy cookies are delivered to them. Needed for this event are people willing to sing Christmas music around the Warsaw area and drivers to transport them. A sign up sheet will found in the East Room to help Benevolence coordinate this activity.If you know anyone who would appreciate cookies and caroling or a Christmas card, please call the church office (786-3868) with names and addresses.
• White Gift Service Sunday, December 16, 2007 Head Start has again requested that we donate books for the children. Benevolence is also asking for hats and mittens or gloves be provided for these youngsters. Please wrap the books in white paper and lay them at the manger during the Christmas pageant. A tree will be set up in the East Room for the hats, gloves/mittens.
• Money donated to our annual White Gift will again be sent to Heifer International in order to purchase animals which help families around the world become self-reliant. Last year our congregation purchased a heifer, two goats, a water buffalo, 2 sheep, and 2 llamas-a bargain at $1500! What can we do this year?
• Surprise! No one volunteered to help clean and inventory the kitchen, so our clean-up campaign will have to become more personal-a tap on the shoulder perhaps. If you are able to help, please contact George Ann Carter (786-2169), or call the church office (786-3868). This not-so-desired job is in real need of being accomplished. We’re looking at January.
• Alzheimer’s Association-The compassion to care, the leadership to conquer Caregiver Support Group-Wyoming County. For caregivers of persons with dementia: The group meets to discuss care giving, exchange resources, and provide support and encouragement to others who are faced with the challenge of dementia. DATE: The last Thursday of every month. TIME: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. LOCATION: Wyoming County Office for the Aging. 8 Perry Avenue, Warsaw. For more information, please call Leilani Pelletier at the Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York at (800) 272-3900 or visit our website at www.alzwny.org
  

  December Birthdays & Anniversaries

  7 Steve & Donna Perkins – 1996

  15 Deb & Bill Mammosser – 2001

  16 Thomas & Cindy Flint – 1977

  20 Lynn & Richard Saxton – 2003

  23 Jeff & Sandy Bush – 1990

  27 Ralph & Verna Schneckenburger – 1986

  Michael & Pat Griffith – 1986

  28 Steve & Barbara Meyer – 1985

6^th William Cummins, William Hulme & Lester Bush

7^th Michael Cummins, Jamie Montgomery

10^th Arlene Baker & Kate Sheer

12^th Colin Almay, Ellen Chandler & Cheryl Daniel

13^th Robert Chandler, Eunice Dills & Karl Kunze

14^th Agnes Wilcox

15^th Betty Burley

16^th Sharyn Vandegenachte, Haley Bleyle, Robert Bleyle,

17^th Patrick Chandler & Allison Packard

18^th-Anna Marie Flint & Holly Mager

20^thDebbie Mammosser

22^nd-Mary Crist & Meghan Coogan

23^rd Barbara Humphrey

24^th Dennis Grove & Nancy Stout

Milestones In Our Church Family

New Members:

• Timothy Logsdon and Carolyn Sprague – Joined the church on Nov 18

Baptisms:

• Elizabeth Grace Wood, daughter of Jared and Christine Wood, was baptized on October 21st.

Deaths:

Our prayerful sympathy is extended to the family of Mrs. Elsie James, who died on November 7th, after a long illness bravely fought. “May the souls of the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”

 

A time to Reflect

….if the Christ is born in Bethlehem a million times, and trudges the dusty roads of Palestine, preaching for a million years, but is not born in your heart and life- and in my heart and life- then what difference does the Gospel make? But if you and I are crucified with the Christ and yet we live because he lives in us, then the good news is true: God is for us. God is with us. God is in us. God is among us. And we are thankful.

-Lowell D. Streiker, Pastor’s Complete Handbook of Model Sermons

What’s Happening at U.C.W. in December!

FOR THE MONTH OF December

Head Greeter Cathie Murdie

Head Usher Linda James

Fellowship Hour Coordinator Brenda Blake

Acolytes

Dec 2^nd- Chris Meyer 322-7396

Dec. 9^th-Karl Kunze 495-6797

Dec 16^th Ben Ghise 495-6029

Dec 23^rd Cassandra Blake 786-5398

Dec 24^th Mary Kunze 495-6797

Dec 30^th Mallory Murdie 786-0003

Liturgists

Dec 2^nd-Lou Ghise 495-6029

Dec 9^th- Kate Sheer 786-5432

Dec 16^th- Steve Perkins-786-5432

Dec. 23^rd Ellen Chandler- 786-2845

Dec. 24^th Hans Kunze- 495-6797

11 p.m. service-Bob Cummins 786-9981

Dec 30^th George Ann Carter 786-2169

Assistant Sound Technician

Dec 2nd-Cassandra Blake 786-5398

Dec 9^th- Alyssa Aldrich-786-5064

Dec 16^th- Demitre Dahl 786-9276

Dec 23^rd-Karl Kunze 495-6797

Dec 30^th-Robbie Blake 786-5398