Ascension Extension - Ascension Episcopal Church
Transcription
Ascension Extension - Ascension Episcopal Church
1000 Ascension Extension A Monthly Newsletter of Church of the Ascension Westminster, MD Ascension is a family of faith so reflecting the life of Christ that we draw all people to Him. Hopefulness in the Midst of Anxiety October 2016 In this Issue: Rector’s Reflection pg 1 Faith In Our Future pg 3 Children & Youth pg 4 Dollars & Cents & Music Notes pg 5 Humorous Insights pg 6 What’s Happening At Ascension pg 8 Vestry Nominees pg 9 Our Community pg 11 What’s Coming pg 12 Vestry Highlights pg 14 Worship & Event Schedule pg 15 Dearly Departed pg 16 News from the Parish Administrator pg 17 __________________ The Ascension Extension is published to exchange information between parishioners & friends of the church. Please send your contributions to: ascensioncommunication@ gmail.com Please submit articles for the November 2016 issue to the church office by: Monday, October 21, 2016. By Samuel Nsengiyumva In 2010, a few members of my previous church and I attended a workshop entitled “Beyond Survival – God’s Future for the Small Church.” The workshop, which was organized by the Wisconsin Council of Churches, attracted people from small churches of varied sizes and denominational backgrounds. Nearly all the participants admitted that they were there because they felt God calling them to a new way of being the church in a constantly changing culture. One thing that has stuck with me since the workshop is that all systems – families, communities, companies, churches, etc., when faced with change, experience a certain level of anxiety; and that different people respond to anxiety differently. In other words, wherever there is change, there is anxiety; and since change is inevitable, anxiety is inevitable as well. In this case, the issue is how we respond to the anxiety that comes with change. Responding to Anxiety At the workshop, we learned that there are at least five ways in which people respond to anxiety generated by changes in their personal or corporate lives. 1. Leaving: One way people respond to anxiety within a system is by leaving or threatening to leave the system. Whether good or bad, change in itself is hard for some people to deal with. Some people may find themselves unwilling or unable to cope with the anxiety that comes with change and decide to leave for what they perceive to be stable environments. Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 1 2. Over-extending: The second way people respond to anxiety is by overextending themselves. In every system or group, there are things that people consider too important to let go; and when those things are threatened by change, some people will step up to do whatever is in their power to save the proverbial golden cow. This often leads to exhaustion and sometimes a sense of indispensability. 3. Magic Bullet: The third way people respond to anxiety is by searching for a magic bullet. People begin to look for the one thing that would make everything well again. The problem is that often there is more than one thing that needs to be done and supposed magic bullets often lead to disappointment and disillusionment. 4. Hunker Down: The fourth way people respond to anxiety is by hunkering down and waiting for the storm to pass. They withdraw from active participation and wait for the time when things will be good again. 5. Exploration: The fifth and perhaps best way to respond to anxiety is by exploring new possibilities and fresh options. This, as I understand it, requires a deliberate, prayerful, and comprehensive process. It calls for the holy trinity of Prayer, Participation, and Patience. While all these options can be legitimate, depending on a variety of factors, I wonder which one of the five ways you feel more inclined to in response to the anxiety generated by the changes in your personal, professional, or church life. It would be interesting to hear what each one of us has to say. With this in mind, I think it is safe to say that we at Ascension are not immune to anxiety. Indeed, some of the changes that have been happening over the past few years, including, but not limited to, the diminishing numbers of people and resources, are generating considerable levels of anxiety. The question is how are we going to respond? While we each may be tempted to respond in one of the first four ways, I would like to appeal to all of us to respond by exploring new possibilities and fresh options. Exploring new possibilities and fresh options is a deliberate and prayerful three-step process that involves remembering, listening, and acting courageously. Remembering: The greatest temptation during a time of anxiety is to forget all that God has done for us and through us. When we reflect on our past, we realize that God is present in good times and in bad times. We begin to see that through many dangers, toils and snares, we have already come; and are reminded that the grace that has brought us safe thus far, will surely lead us home. In remembering, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness. Listening: Perhaps the most important part of a discernment or exploration process is listening both to God and one another. We listen to God by meditating on his Word and prayer. Prayer is not just about us telling God what we want, but listening to what He has to say to us. We also listen to God by listening to one another. God does speak through other people especially during deliberate and prayerful exercises such as Bible Study. We listen to one another by creating space and time to share our stories. Our stories often reveal our fears and our hopes. It is often during those moments that ideas leading to new possibilities and fresh options begin to emerge. Acting Courageously: It is one thing to remember what God has done in the past, to listen to what God may be saying now; and another to act on what God is saying. Acting courageously is about being faithful to what God is saying. This may require some major adjustments in how things are done; Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 2 including making some sacrifices or doing things that may initially look risky. Acting courageously is about trusting God and believing that He is faithful to carry us through what He has called us to do. Exploring new opportunities and fresh options by remembering, listening, and acting courageously should not simply be a response in times of anxiety, but a way of being the church. Indeed, it is when we fail to remember, listen or act according to God’s will that anxiety sets in. Thankfully, our God is a God of second chances and is constantly giving us opportunities for renewal. As the leadership discusses the practical details of how we can engage in this exploration, I pray that all of us will want to participate so that together, we can gladly be part of what God is saying and doing at Ascension. Even now, I hear God saying: “I know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11). He who has promised is faithful (Hebrews 10:23). Trusting and acting in obedience to the promises of our faithful God, we will not only survive, but thrive. FAITH IN OUR FUTURE Our first phase of this campaign is to pay off the Middendorf Loan ($83,000). As of September 30 the balance on the loan is approximately $63,000. To date the following money has been pledged or raised: Number of Pledges: 18 Includes One Time Gifts: 12 Amount - $31,110.00 Amount - $ 5,081.00 Fundraisers: Premier Design Jewelry Show Amount - $ 400.00 Spring Marketplace Amount - $3,898.00 Middendorf Room Amount - $2,721.15 __________________________________________________ Total Pledged & Raised $43,220.15 If you have not already done so, please return your pledge card as soon as possible. Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 3 Ascension Church News and updates about the dynamic and fantastic Youth of Ascension! Thank You For A Job Well Done It is with a sad heart that we inform you that Ms. Deb Howard recently informed us that she will no longer be able to serve in the role of Director of Children and Youth Ministries. Her last day in this role was September 28, 2016. As a member of our parish, she has expressed her desire to continue her ministry to our children on a limited volunteer basis. We are deeply grateful for Ms. Deb's five years of dedicated ministry to our children and youth, first as Director of Christian Education for Children and Youth and most recently as Director of Children and Youth Ministries. Our first day of Sunday School was September 25, but it’s not too late to join us! Confirmation, Reaffirmation and Reception to the Episcopal Church will be held in May 2017. Please e-mail the Church office if your child is entering 8th or 9th grade, or you are an adult who wishes to be confirmed, (churchoftheascension@gmail.com). Welcome To Emily Ducane Miss Emily Ducane is our new Child Care/Nursery Attendant. She replaces Samantha Curry who resigned in June. Emily is currently a student at Carroll Community College where she is working toward a degree in education. As a new member of Ascension, Emily has asked to take on this Ministry as her gift to the Church. She will be available on Sunday mornings to ensure that any small children who wish to use the Children's Corner are comfortable and safe, and she will be assisting in the Sunday School with the younger children. Children’s Sermon In case your family missed it this past Sunday, we invite your children to join Ms. Betsy Reinders every Sunday morning for the Children’s Sermon. The children, (and adults), sat captivated as Ms. Betsy spoke to them about God’s alarm clock ringing in their hearts. Will you hit the snooze button or get up and answer His call? Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 4 Dollars & Cents Rick Reinders – Treasurer Financial Facts Our Gas & Electric bill for July was $1,991.13 Our Telephone bill for July was $294.29 Our Oil bill for July was -$837.00 Financial Report as of September 30, 2016 Income - Pledge - Other Total Income Expenses - Staff - Buildings & Grounds - Other expenses Total Expenses Net Income Actual Budget Difference 200,097.00 29,975.00 230,072.00 215,519.00 32,990.00 248,509.00 -15,422.00 -3,015.00 -18,437.00 129,826.00 67,709.00 56,642.00 254,177.00 -24,105.00 132,819.00 73,699.00 63,936.00 270,454.00 -21,945.00 2,993.00 5,990.00 7,294.00 16,277.00 NOTE: We have saved $16,277 by keeping our spending down, BUT our income to date is short $18,437. If we are able to recover the income shortfall we could end the year with less than a $10,000 deficit, putting us in better financial shape then we had anticipated. Music Notes Mary Butler, Director of Music Ministry Calling everyone that would like to “make a joyful noise unto the Lord” (Psalm 98:4). The choir wants you! Are you a Soprano, Alto, Tenor or Bass? We have a seat waiting for you. Is Traditional or Contemporary what you prefer? The Ascension Choir has it all! Not a signer, but you play the guitar, trumpet, fiddle, flute, tamborine or kazoo?! The Praise Band would love to have you join them. Our 9:00 a.m. worship service is a musical blend of Traditional and Contemporary, and, on the first Sunday of each month, the Ascension Choir sings at the 11:15 a.m. worship service in the Stone Church. Rehearsals are: Wednesday evenings; 7:00 p.m. Praise Band, 7:30 p.m. Ascension Choir Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 5 HUMOROUS INSIGHTS One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport. We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was really friendly. So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!' This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.' He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets. The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day. Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so. Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't. Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it! Have a garbage-free day! "Faith is not believing God can. It is knowing that God will." Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 6 What is Happening at Ascension? Country Breakfast Buffet Fellowship Hall ~ October 1, 2016 ~ 7:00 – 11:00 a.m. COME HUNGRY * LEAVE FULL Delight in the decadent, delicious, and delectable foods served by our dedicated, determined and devoted crew that prepare and serve our country breakfast buffet each month. The cost of the breakfast is $8.00 adults / $3.00 ages 4-8. See You There! De Colores! Ultreya is coming to Ascension Church of the Ascension will be hosting the Annual Diocesan Ultreya on October 8th from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.! Everyone is invited to attend. If you are a Cursillista, curious about what a Cursillo weekend would be like, or just love music and the Lord you will not want to miss this. Do you like making crafts? Would you be interested in making Cursillo-themed crafts? The Maryland Episcopal Cursillo is looking for creative people interested in making items that could be sold at the Annual Diocesan Ultreya to be held here, at Ascension, October 8th. A part of the proceeds will be donated to MEC General Fund to support the cost of our Weekends. Please email Pam Blyth if you're interested in participating so they can plan. Ultreya! Pamela Blyth, MD 92 Communications Coordinator, marylandepiscopalcursillo@gmail.com Ascension Before & After School Care It was decided that, after the original enrollment numbers did not increase after the original three children, the program would be suspended until January 2017. There was not enough time, after receiving approval for the program from the Vestry in July, to do all the required paperwork for the license and to get the word out to the families in the Westminster community about the Before and After School Care program. During the next month we will be researching the viability of reopening for the second semester or waiting until the 2017/2018 school year. Our employees were very understanding, and they all would like to come back when we are able to reopen. The family of the three children has been able to make other arrangements and looks forward to coming back when we reopen. Thank you all so very much for your support. The Child Care Board still feels that God is calling us to move forward with the program. Please continue to pray for the members of the Board and for God’s continued guidance and blessing on the Ascension Before and After School Care. Membership News We continue to encourage everyone to fill out the Member Survey. We want to clarify that any questions on the survey that you do not want to answer can be marked N/A. The survey will continue to be amended from time to time (a true work in progress!) but any version that you submit will be entered into the office data base. Thank you to everyone who has already completed the survey! Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 7 Resting in the Heart Weekend On October 15-16, 2016 Church of the Ascension is hosting Fr. Paul Freider for two days of teaching and prayers for spiritual enrichment and healing. Fr. Feider is recently retired from St. John’s Episcopal Church and the Center for Inner Peace in New London, Wisconsin. He is an active member of the Association of Christian Therapists, the Order of St. Luke. He has served on the National Board of Directors for Christian Healing Ministries. Fr. Feider is also the author of several books including Journey to Inner Peace and Resting in the Heart: A Spirituality of Healing and Wholeness. The schedule for Saturday, October 15 is divided into two parts. The morning session, 9:00 am thru Noon will concentrate on “A Journey to Inner Peace.” The evening session 6:30 pm-8:30 pm features “Healing of Negative Emotions and Memories.” On Sunday, October 16, Fr. Feider will be preaching and leading healing prayer at the 8:00 am and 10:00 am services. We urge our congregation to attend and invite others to discover and develop a way of allowing God’s agape love to heal emotional and physical wounds of your life. St. Luke’s Guild encourages all members, hands-on prayer teams, and intercessors, to participate in this weekend. In fact, everyone is requested to assist with ushering, greeting, and helping with refreshments. Plans for this mission are streamlined so that no one person is burdened and everyone is free to enjoy this blessed event. Contact Bobbie Gooding (410-756-6707) for information about the weekend or how you can help. A Season of Stewardship Church of the Ascension will begin a season of stewardship on October 30. When we hear the word stewardship the first thought is, “Oh no, they want more money from us!” But that is not the only meaning of stewardship. Stewardship applies to all aspects of our lives, not just the money we give to support our Church. It is about being grateful, responsible caretakers of the gifts God has given to us. Don’t get us wrong, we still need you to support the church financially, but stewardship is also about contributing time and talents, and volunteering for ministry and mission. It’s about how we, as individuals, choose to serve God. On October 30 and November 6, two of our members will speak about their own stewardship, and how through their service to God they have been blessed. On November 13, The Rev. Charles Cloughen, Planned Giving Officer for the Diocese, will be our guest speaker. Planned giving differs from annual stewardship and capital campaigns. Planned giving focuses on the building of vibrant and healthy ministries for our Church. Planned giving is the legacy we leave for the future members of our Church – our children and our children’s children. It does not just focus on our giving today, or this year, but how our giving will build and sustain the Church tomorrow. Finally, on November 20, Consecration Sunday, the congregation will be invited to bring their pledges forward during the offertory. Symbolically, it is your personal commitment to God, placed at the altar, to be an active participant in the growing work of His kingdom here at Church of the Ascension. After the service we will all gather to share Brunch in the Fellowship Hall prepared by some of our members. Won’t you CONNECT, GROW and SERVE God with us as we enter this season of stewardship? Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 8 Vestry Nominees Following the 10:00 a.m. worship service on Sunday, October 9, 2016, we will hold our Annual Meeting and the election of 4 new Vestry members. Everyone is encouraged to attend. The Holy Spirit is working in and through all of us and there are many wonderful things happening at Ascension. The annual meeting is a time to reflect and share the good news! Below you will find the bios of the five members who have agreed to stand for Vestry election. Please pray for each of these individuals who have graciously offered us their time and talents for the growth of God’s Church. Roger I. Bair, III (Chip) Occupation: Financial Advisor Family: Audrey Bair – wife; Christopher Bair, Nicholas Bair, and Charlotte Floretine – children; they are expecting their first grandchild in December 2016 Pets: 3 Dogs – Valentina, Mattie and Milo; Cat – Fitz Community Activities – Advisory Board for Gettysburg Campus of the Harrisburg Area Community College I have been a member of Church of the Ascension for 47 years. I am very interested in exploring ways to grow our membership. For some time we have struggled financially, and I think the cure for our weak financial position is to grow. All mainline protestant denomination churches have lost members, but I think what we have at Ascension is so special that we can grow. We need to get the word out about who we are. Milton Beebe (Milt) Occupation: Electronics Engineer / Microsoft Instructor Family: Single; Andrea Neilson and Matthias Beebe - children; Claire and Grace Neilson - grandchildren Community Activities: American Legion, Lion’s Club Activities at Ascension: Usher, Chalicist, Choir, Handbell Choir, Lector, Sound System, Country Breakfast Buffet, Substitute Keyboardist/Organist, Mistletoe Mart volunteer, Cursillo, Soup Kitchen, Worship, Outreach, Membership, Vestry, and LRMP I have been a member of Church of the Ascension for 19 years. Ascension is my family of Faith that I’ve come to love and desire to serve in all my capacity. I felt genuine joy in the work of Ascension from the moment I started regular attendance in 1997. My love of my Ascension family worship grows with each day. I love to serve, and I try to step forward whenever possible to work in special projects, such as Mistletoe Mart and the Spring Marketplace, and any occasion where I can serve with my hands. God has blessed me with musical talents which I try to contribute as I am able. I’m looking forward to using my job skills in music, computers, and electronics to help Ascension. It is always an honor and privilege to serve. Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 9 Jennifer Beeker (Jenny) Occupation: Accounts Receivable Manager at GBMC Family: Jeffrey (Jeff) Beeker – husband; Lauren Beeker – daughter Community Activities: United Way Activities at Ascension: Outreach, Altar Guild, Thursday Bible Study, Mistletoe Mart Committee, Monthly Gift Card Fundraiser, Secret Sister, St. James’ Guild, Sunday School teacher, Nursery, Soup Kitchen, and Vestry I have been a member of Church of the Ascension for 22 years. I am willing to work in whatever capacity I am needed in. My greatest passion is Outreach. Mary Lou Berg Occupation: Retired teacher / Education Consultant / Trainer Family: Robert G. Berg – spouse, deceased; Annelise M. Niner – daughter; Emily L. Niner and Robert J. Niner – grandchildren Pets: One Cat – Smokey Community Activities: I volunteer at the New Oxford Public Library teaching knitting Activities at Ascension: Chalicist, Lector, Tuesday Bible Study and Mistletoe Mart volunteer I have been a member of Church of the Ascension for 15 years. I have experience planning and carrying out programs, and I am a self-starter. I am able to support and help with any program. Judith Stainbrook Occupation: Retired Trial Attorney / Writer / Entrepreneur – Company, EarlyOwl.BenefitLLC Pets: Three cats and two dogs Community Activities: Since my recovery from cancer, I have worked extensively at Hopewell Cancer Support located in Baltimore County, but serving the entire state. Activities at Ascension: St Luke’s, Country Breakfast Buffet, Membership Committee, Mistletoe Mart volunteer I have been a member of Church of the Ascension for a total of 11 years. My background as a lawyer would be helpful in some of the fiscal issues. I also have time and energy to devote to doing whatever needs to be done. The church has been important to me in my cancer recovery, and I feel it has given me the impetus to reach out and help others and hopefully help bring new members to Ascension. Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 10 Around Our Community October 1 Carroll County Christian Men’s Prayer Breakfast 7:30 to 10:00 a.m. Pleasant Valley Community Fire Company's Fire Hall. Cost: $15.00 2030 Pleasant Valley Road South, Westminster, MD 21158 This year's speaker will be William J. Murray, chairman of the Religious Freedom Coalition. The 20th annual Christian Men's Prayer Breakfast unites men from all Christian backgrounds in the common cause of defending our faith. By joining together, we recognize that, though we are of different denominations and congregations, we are all followers of Christ and we need to turn to Christ in all aspects of our lives. Please visit this website to purchase tickets: https://www.cbmc.com/event/CCPB October 1-2 Octoberfest Carroll County Agricultural Center 12:00 p.m – 6:00 p.m. General admission is $5.00. Children ages 10 and under are free This will be a fun-filled day with many family activities, as well as authentic style German foods, beers, and music. Festivities will include a “Roll Out the Barrel” ceremony to be performed by local dignitaries, a Lederhosen and Dirndl Contest, Polka Dance contest, and a Chicken Dance Contest, with live entertainment all day. For those arriving in authentic German attire admission is free! Children’s activities will include face painting, pumpkin painting, scarecrow making, magic shows, balloon sculptors, and many games. October 2 Carillon Recital 3:00 p.m. Buck Lyon-Vaiden will play The Swoope Carillon in the Mercersburg Chapel on the campus of Mercersburg Academy on Sunday, October 2, at 3:00 p.m. Please contact Buck or Lynn if you are interested in attending. October 8 Joe Keys and the Late Bloomers Band 8:00 p.m. Carroll Arts Center Cost $22 - $25 Front man, poet and band conductor Joe Keyes and his Late Bloomer Band take audiences back to the days of Miles Davis and early P-Funk. The band’s polished tightness, live improvisation and musical sophistication show the influence of musical mentors Gil Scott-Heron, Joe Bowie, and Sun Ra, bringing a modern interpretation to funk, jazz, rock and a variety of other genres and landing collaborations with George Clinton and members of Parliament/Funkadelic. For ticket information visit: http://www.commongroundonthehill.org/index.html October 22 WRC Zombie Run 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Community Media Center 1301 Washington Rd Cost: $30.00 It is the 4th annual 5k Zombie Run! Where you try to survive an all-terrain trail, hang on to your flags while being chased by hordes of Zombies! Sound like fun? Last year, over 150 runners and 60 zombies took on the challenge! Be a Zombie or be a Runner, just be there! All proceeds benefit the upkeep of Washington Road Community Trail. Tickets are on-sale now at wrctrail.org, so go online & register! For more fun things to do around Westminster go to; http://carrollcountytourism.org/calendar-of-events/ Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 11 What’s Coming Up At Ascension All Saints Sunday All Saints' Sunday November 6, 2016 Please remember the following departed loved ones on All Saints’ Sunday: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ Include these names in the prayers at the ____________ service. Please indicate at which service (8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., or 11:15 a.m.) you would like your loved ones name(s) read. If you do not indicate a specific time, the name will be read at one of our three services. Please place this form in the offering plate or return it to the Church Office no later than Monday, October 31. Thank you. Mistletoe Mart Mistletoe Mart is coming November 10 through 12! Jenny Beeker has put our volunteer boards up, and they are ready for you to sign-up. We need your help again to continue the tradition of The Mistletoe Mart. Our 52 artisans and our church will welcome nearly 3,000 visitors. For many, The Mart is the start of the Christmas shopping season with friends and family — it’s a tradition! If you have small jelly-type jars, we will need those by mid-October to fill with the famous Mistletoe Mart Golden Bough Tea. We hope to have everyone pitching in as we do every year. Thanks in advance, and if you have any questions please contact Marcie Forster (marcie.forster@gmail.com) or Kim Tompkins. Please mark your calendars for the following dates. October 12 Committee Meeting: 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. November 6 thru 9 Mistletoe Mart Set-Up ALL HANDS ON DECK November 10 thru 12 Mistletoe Mart VOLUNTEERS NEEDED November 14 Holy Cross Hall set up and Rededication: 6:00 p.m Moving Truck Returns with our belongings at 6:30 p.m. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 12 College Care Packages College Care Packages will be mailed to college students after Thanksgiving. 1. Addresses needed: Please send addresses of college students to Lynn Lyon-Vaiden 2. Contributions are needed for postage and to purchase the items that will be packed in the boxes. Checks should be payable to Church of the Ascension with “College Care Packages” written on the memo line. 3. Shoppers needed: If you are willing to purchase an item that will be packed in the boxes, please contact Lynn Lyon-Vaiden. (llyonvaiden@yahoo.com) Thank you for your support! Ascension Day of Prayer The next Ascension Day of Prayer will be on Saturday, November 19, at 10:00 a.m. in the Stone Church. Intentional prayer is important to ensure we are actively listening for God’s call to us. Please join us as we continue to discern God’s plan for Ascension. Sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! that calls me from a world of care, and bids me at my Father's throne make all my wants and wishes known. In seasons of distress and grief, my soul has often found relief, and oft escaped the tempter's snare by thy return, sweet hour of prayer! W.W. Walford (1845) Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 13 Vestry Highlights September 13, 2016 Members of the Vestry met on Tuesday, September 13, at 6:30pm to discuss matters of importance to the life and mission of Ascension. Present at the meeting were Fr. Samuel, Buck Lyon-Vaiden, Lynn Kirby, JoAnne Kreider, Brenda Bornt, Helen Lang, Mary Beth Francis, Nancy Barry, Debbie Bargar and Melissa Leahy. Patti McDonald, Mary Forbes and Rick Reinders were unable to attend. The following items were discussed: 1. Diocesan Required Classes for Leaders – It was reported that the Dioceses requires the leadership of the church, (this includes the clergy, vestry, officers, and ministry leaders) to completed the course “Safe Guarding God’s Children”. All leaders are encouraged to take the course. Go to http://website.praesidiuminc.com/EnrollNow. Use “ANG-MD” as your login code and enter your information. Please do the modules called “Meet Sam”, “It Happened to Me”, “Keeping Your Church Safe” and “Your Policies.” Please print and turn in the Certificate. 2. Vestry Nominees – The following five individuals have agreed to stand for Vestry election 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. and have submitted their bios; Roger Bair, Milt Beebe, Jenny Beeker, Mary Lou Berg, and Judith Stainbrook. Annual Stewardship Campaign (October 30 – November 20) - We will be working in conjunction with the National Stewardship calendar. Week one and two will feature volunteer speakers at the 3 services. On week three, The Rev. Charles Cloughen will speak on planned giving with a forum, and on week four we will hold Consecration Sunday with a celebration brunch. Ascend - The Ascend service will return this month and then be held on every third Sunday at 5:00 pm. George Sterling will be spearheading the planning with the support of other members. Christian Education - The Director of Children and Youth Ministries has met with the teachers, and they are ready to begin classes. Survey - A couple of glitches were found with the survey and the committee has made some adjustments. The response to date has been low and the Vestry is encouraged to participate. The survey will be re-sent with some instructions for how to bypass one of the glitches that cannot be changed. Wine & Paint Party/Fundraiser – The Fellowship Committee asked for permission to hold a Wine and Paint Party in the Fellowship Hall on Friday, October 28, 2016. They are also planning a Wine and Etching Party for February 10, 2017 and a Wine and Birdhouse Painting Party for April 28, 2017. The events are BYOB (wine or sparkling cider). The Vestry approved the events. The meeting closed with a prayer. Respectfully Submitted, Lynn Kirby, Registrar Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 14 Worship & Parish Event Schedule October 1 7:00 a.m. -11a.m. Country Breakfast Buffet All you can eat breakfast $8.00 October 1 & 2 8:30 – 12:30 p.m. 10:30 am Middendorf Shoppe Saturday Hours Sunday Hours October 2 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 11:15 a.m. Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost H.E., Rite I - Stone Church H.E. Rite II – Holy Cross Hall, Contemporary Christian Education H.E., Rite II – Stone Church, Ascension Choir October 4 10:00 a.m. Tuesday Bible Study Bible Study – Guild Room October 6 7:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Thursday Night Bible Study Refreshments Bible Study – Parlor October 9 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m. Twenty First Sunday after Pentecost H.E., Rite I - Stone Church H.E., Rite II – Holy Cross Hall ANNUAL PARISH MEETING Vestry Meeting - Parlor October 13 7:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Thursday Night Bible Study Refreshments Bible Study – Parlor October 15 9:00 a.m. 6:30 p.m. “Resting in the Heart” Healing Mission A Journey to Inner Peace – 3 hour seminar healing of Negative Emotions and Memories – 2 hour seminar October 16 8:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Twenty Second Sunday after Pentecost H.E., Rite I - Healing Service - Stone Church H.E., Rite II – Healing Service - Holy Cross Hall Refreshments and Fellowship October 18 10:00 a.m. Tuesday Bible Sudy Bible Study – Guild Room October 20 7:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Thursday Night Bible Study Refreshments Bible Study – Parlor Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 15 October 23 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 11:15 a.m. Twenty Third Sunday after Pentecost H.E., Rite I - Stone Church H.E., Rite II – Holy Cross Hall Christian Education H.E. Rite II – Stone Church October 27 7:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Thursday Night Bible Study Refreshments Bible Study – Parlor October 30 8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 11:15 a.m. Twenty Fourth Sunday after Pentecost H.E., Rite I - Stone Church H.E., Rite II – Holy Cross Hall Christian Education H.E. Rite II – Stone Church Faithfully Departed Mr. John L. Rooney, departed this life on September 3, 2016. Mr. Rooney was a member of Ascension and the father of Roberta Gore (grandfather of Hannah, Luke, and Sean Gore). Please pray for Roberta and her family during this time of loss. May Mr. Rooney's soul, with all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. From the Bishops' Office, Episcopal Diocese of Maryland: The Rev. Charles Carroll Eads, the senior priest of the diocese, died on September 17. He was 92. Father Eads was ordained in 1947 by Bishop Noble C. Powell. He served the first two years of Ordained Ministry as Curate at The Church of the Ascension and Prince of Peace in Baltimore. For the next forty years he was rector of both Christ Church, Forest Hill and Holy Cross, The Rocks, in Harford County. He retired in 1989. In a letter to Father Eads, Bishop Ted Eastman wrote: “Although I knew your retirement was in the works, it caused a wrench in the pit of my stomach to read your letter…It just won’t be the same for the Diocese or for your two congregations after the end of January. You are certainly due a change of scene and pace, but you will be missed in your role as senior active priest in the Diocese.” A celebration of life service will be held at Holy Cross Episcopal Church, 4710 Route 24, Street, MD 21154, on Sunday, October 23 at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the educational scholarships Father Eads set up: The Wilson Scholarship at Holy Cross Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 103 Street, Maryland 21154 or The Eads Scholarship at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 301 South Mineral Street, Keyser, West Virginia 26726. Rest eternal grant to him, O Lord; And let light perpetual shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 16 From the Parish Administrator’s Desk We will be publishing a NEW, UPDATED phone directory to supplement the Pictorial Directory we did 2 years ago. We do not want to leave anyone out or publish old information. If you have moved, are new, switched carriers and have a new number, PLEASE email your information to the office A.S.A.P. so that we can include it. (churchoftheascension@gmail.com) Regards, Cheryl Officers/Vestry Member Term Liaison Affiliation Buck Lyon-Vaiden, Sr. Warden Helen Lang, Jr. Warden Rick Reinders, Treasurer Lynn Kirby, Registrar Debbie Bargar Patti McDonald Nancy Barry Mary Forbes JoAnne Kreider Brenda Bornt Mary Beth Francis Melissa Leahy (2018) (2016) (2017) (2016) (2016) (2016) (2017) (2017) (2017) (2018) (2018) (2018) Stewardship Stewardship/Buildings & Grounds Stewardship/Finance Membership/Fellowship Stewardship/Fundraising Discipleship/Christian Formation Membership/Evangelism Worship Outreach/Independent Groups Stewardship/Memorials Membership/Evangelism Discipleship/Christian Formation Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 17 CLERGY & STAFF: The Rev. Samuel Nsengiyumva, Rector The Rev. Barbara Sears, Deacon Cheryl Vecera, Parish Administrator Mary Butler, Director of Music Ministries Emily Ducane, Child Care-Nursery Attendant Lynn Lyon-Vaiden, Handbell Choir Director Donald Chepko, Night Sexton Lynn Kirby, Extension Newsletter Office Hours: 8:30-2:30 Mon- Wed & Fri, Thursday 10:00 – 3:00. 410-848-3251 or 410-876-0736 Church Office email: churchoftheascension@gmail.com Newsletter email: ascensioncommunication@gmail.com Ascension Before and After School Care email: ascensionbasc@gmail.com Church of the Ascension 23 North Court Street Westminster, MD 21157 Ascension Extension –October 2016* www.ascension-westminster.com * 410-848-3251 pg. 18