Archives - Bethany Presbyterian Church
Transcription
Archives - Bethany Presbyterian Church
DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2015 JAN 24 – Pastor Rea transfers Moderator office Jan 31 – Scholarship Blood Drive Feb 1 – BPC celebrates 6 years Feb 7 – Flapjack Fundraiser Feb 8 – Annual Congregational Meeting Lent – He will raise you up PASTOR REA TRANSFERS MODERATOR OFFICE Last year - 2014 - was a special year for Bethany as we celebrated Pastor Rea's appointment as Moderator for 2014 of the Presbytery of Long Island. So quickly, a year has passed since our church was packed with standing room only to watch our spiritual leader assume this office. His leadership role officially ended on December 31, 2014. For 2015, Pastor Rea has one more year of service to the Presbytery as Moderator of the Shepherding Council; however, he will ceremonially pass the role of 'Moderator of the Presbytery' to Reverend Jeff Prey on January 24. In our Photo Gallery, see pictures of the 2014 event when Pastor Rea accepted his role. SCHOLARSHIP BLOOD DRIVE Feb 21 – Youth help at HIHI Thanks for your help to collect 37 pints. Almost 60 people saw our signs, read our fliers, checked our facebook and website page, came out to donate... and helped one bright student receive a scholarship at our annual Blood Drive! Mar 6 – HIHI invites guests to come inside Mar 29 – Apr 5 Holy Week Dramas MICAH Meals The Open Door newsletter Food Pantry – monthly support Nov 26 – Deacon Holiday Meal delivery FLAPJACK FUNDRAISER Thank you to all the wonderful guests and volunteers who helped make Bethany's February 7th Flapjack Fund raiser so successful. Guests, friends and family had a delicious breakfast, won door prizes and raffles, and helped us raise money for the church generator. Bethany Memorial Bench plan More information added throughout the year Page 1 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2015 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BPC WEBSITE CELEBRATES 6 YEARS February 7th marked the 6-Year Anniversary of our Bethany website. For your next event, consider including the website while you're in the planning phase - that way, there'll be enough time to get your information on the site and have it be seen before your event happens. Send brief details or a short bulleted list to ANDRIENNE7@gmail.com. In six years, a lot changed - new look, new features - and many more visitors! Specifically, in 2014: - Total visits increased by 33% to 21,400 – 5258 more than in 2013! - Total pages viewed increased by 35% to 33,865 – 8823 more than in 2013! 2015 ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING All members were invited to hear reports from the Pastor, Session, Deacons, Treasurer, and Committee leaders. There was ample time to ask questions about Bethany, the Presbytery, and the Presbyterian Church. Booklets for 2015 include complete details and reports. Thank you to members who attended and made time for this important meeting to learn more about what happened - and is happening - at Bethany. The meeting agenda included the election of new church officers, as members of Session and Board of Deacons. The Pastor's call was unanimously renewed. SEASON OF LENT – HE WILL RAISE YOU UP We start the season of Lent with Ash Wednesday Communion Worship. Let Bethany help you start your Lenten journey and mark the beginning of Lent with the imposition of ashes. They remind us that we are created from dust and to dust we shall return. During these 40 days and nights, remember that God is with you. He will raise you up when you don't have strength to raise yourself. Learn more about Lent and what it means to Presbyterians. Page 2 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2015 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington YOUTH HELP AT HIHI – HUNTINGTON INTERFAITH HOMELESS INITIATIVE February 21 Bethany's youth take an active role in community outreach and mission events! And they were out in full force at our 2014 HIHI night. They cooked, they served, they cleaned - all with joyous smiles and the energetic enthusiasm that comes with youth. Bethany is one of the more than twenty houses of worship that participate in HIHI - providing respite for the homeless during the winter months. Use links above to learn about more opportunities for Christian education at Bethany. HIHI INVITES GUESTS TO COME INSIDE Unbelievably, Bethany's in the midst of the 11th year of HIHI! Again on March 6, Bethany welcomed guests to come inside for dinner, snacks, dessert, a few movies, overnight supervision, breakfast and lunch. HIHI helps bring homeless individuals out of the cold and into a warm church overnight. Sponsored by the Family Service League, HIHI - Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative - is one of several programs available for Housing and Homeless Services. Bethany Presbyterian Church is one of the more than 20 houses of worship that participate in HIHI, providing respite for the homeless during the winter months. Read about our rich history with this important initiative in our Archives - in 2011, the Times of Huntington honored volunteers as 'People of the year in Religion'! See several albums in our Photos. HIHI: Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative - it's another way for YOU and Bethany to help fight hunger in our community. For more information about HIHI events, contact Ed Wong or Lanzel Powell. HOLY WEEK DRAMAS | JOURNEY TO THE CROSS We 're-live' Holy Week from Palm Sunday on March 29 through Easter Sunday on April 5 - as we celebrate the glorious resurrection of our Lord. The amazing re-enactment of the last week of Jesus' life - through live performances and worship - provides an experience like no other! “Thank You!!! Thank You!!! Thank You!!!” There are no words adequate enough to express appreciation for the Bethany members that helped with and participated in the Holy Week Dramas. Each performer was superb in portraying scripture for our Holy Week services – and there’s been nothing but positive feedback! (If you missed the ‘Holy Week’ dramas, be sure to join us for the Christmas’ drama.) It wasn’t an easy week – especially on Saturday with the preparation of the Deacon Easter Meals and the Flowering of the Cross. The baskets of flowers were absolutely beautiful and on Easter Sunday, we had enough flowers to completely cover the cross. What was once a symbol of the torturous crucifixion from the 'Good Friday' drama, was transformed into a glorious symbol of life, of beauty, and of His resurrection. It was simply breathtaking! We enrich our worship services with these dramas by depicting scripture and making events that happened over 2000 years ago come alive! We continue to tell the age old story and the reason for our faith – to enable all of us to ‘be there’ and take part of His story. A lot of hard work goes into the dramas, but our efforts don’t really seem like work. We come together in love and fellowship and contribute our time and talents until it all comes together. It is an honor and a pleasure, and most certainly a privilege to be able to work together to tell His story. Page 3 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2015 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington MICAH MEALS – COMMUNITY AND FELLOWSHIP LUNCH You're invited to join us again for a special Thanksgiving MICAH Meal at noon! Come and share the warm fellowship and great food at Bethany - you'll be glad you came and spent time getting to know neighbors in your community. This lunchtime meal is free, all are welcome and sometimes we have a live piano concert! What are MICAH Meals all about? MICAH means Mobilized Interfaith Coalition Against Hunger - it's another way for YOU and Bethany to share God's love and help fight hunger in our community. For more information about MICAH, see Scott Cornell or Arlene Harris. For more ways to help, learn about HIHI, the Pantry, and our 'Grow to Give' Garden. THE OPEN DOOR – NEWSLETTERS FOR 2015 Bethany's Presbyterian Women are doing amazing work to nurture faith, support mission, work for justice and peace, and build community. Missed The Open Door where we shared highlights of their great work? No worries! Get a year’s worth of back issues online on our website or call the church for more information. STOCKING THE PANTRIES ALL YEAR LONG Huntington needs YOUR HELP to keep the food pantries stocked all year long. The hunger shortage still exists and continues to grow, more and more each year. With your help, we'll make a difference and reduce hunger on Long Island. Please leave your donation in the wicker basket in the Narthex. Any non-perishable food item is appreciated and helps support the Huntington Community Food Council! Each month, we'll suggest a new item. Page 4 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2015 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington DRIVERS NEEDED FOR DEACON HOLIDAY MEAL DELIVERY We need your help to deliver meals on Thanksgiving Day - at 9 a.m. You may be blessed to have somewhere to go and someone to spend Thanksgiving with - but everyone's not that fortunate. Please, remember those who need and depend on us. You can help the Deacons and volunteers make Thanksgiving a little brighter by assembling at church to deliver meals for Thanksgiving. Contact Marilynne Geiffert or any Deacon. Holiday meals are also delivered for Christmas and Easter. Holiday Meal Volunteers meet at 8 am and Drivers meet at 9 am. Each 'care package' includes a meal, dessert, and an invitation to an upcoming event. SHOW YOUR LOVE – BETHANY MEMORIAL BENCH PLAN Memorialize loved ones with the Bethany Memorial Bench Plan. Bethany Presbyterian Church is blessed to be situated on five acres of beautiful land - perfectly filled with the right balance of trees and views of the sky to allow for contemplative reflection. Now, memorial benches will be added to provide a perfect place to enjoy this beauty and at last, we'll have places to sit, mediate, pray, and enjoy God's presence on our beautiful land - all while honoring our loved ones. Our Deacons will facilitate placement and installation of the memorial benches - and there are endless possibilities for arranging them on our grounds. We hope you will embrace this project as another way for Bethany to visibly show our love of God, our church, her people and community, and our loved ones who have gone to God's glory. Please prayerfully consider honoring a loved one and enjoying the peace and serenity of Bethany's gardens in a new way. For more information and to see actual bench samples, please contact Deacons Marilynne Geiffert and Suzanne Idise. Here's how the plan works: • Each bench accommodates up to four commemorative plaques and will be installed when four plaques are ordered • Each plaque costs $300 per person - the true value is priceless to memorialize your loved one • Each plaque can be engraved with your choice of wording, with room for 5 lines of script, each plaque sized at 8 inches x 3 inches with a brown sand recessed background and brushed bronze raised lettering • Upkeep and care for each bench will be provided by Bethany Presbyterian Church and includes all maintenance (staining, landscaping, and field stones). Page 5 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2014 Jan 4 – “Go Green’ Continues Jan 25 – Presbytery Moderator 2014 Jan 26 – Annual Congregational Meeting January – Music Director Search begins January – Blood Pressure Check-up January – Stock the Pantries Feb 1 – Website Launch Apr 6 – Easter Lilies Apr 19 – Holy Week Dramas Jun 1 – Recognition Sunday YOUTH CONTINUE BETHANY'S "GREEN" STREAK Bethany's youth are determined to help our church become certified as an Earth Care Congregation and rack up points for various activities. They're doing it by continuing the 'Green' efforts they started April of 2012. Bethany's youth are leading the way to support the PC USA's program and help our congregation explore ways to bring caring for earth… down to earth. Their visually stimulating presentation encourages YOU to think about what YOU can do to make Bethany a greener place. • G – It’s GOOD to care for the earth! That’s what God asked Adam and Eve to do. Today, that means watching out for what we do daily and try to ensure it does not have a negative impact. • R – RECYCLING helps. Americans are consumers. We throw away a lot of stuff. We need to dispose of things in safer ways, in right ways. Otherwise potentially dangerous chemicals can go into our landfills. • E – It’s EASY to get involved. Bring your batteries to church on Sundays - cell phone, rechargeable and car batteries. We'll collect and safely dispose them. Huntington Recycling Center has a special place where they can be disposed – and we'll take them there. • E – Have EXTRA EYEGLASSES? Bring them to church on Sundays… you know, the kind you get from your local drug store. They can be recycled if they go to a waste recycling place. • N – NO ONE can ignore this! It's important to go green! The recycling box will be in the church lounge during the week and in the back of the sanctuary on Sundays. Oct 2 – Climate Walk Oct 18 – Deacons’ Fair Nov 15 – MICAH Meal Dec 6 – Craft Sale PASTOR REA APPOINTED MODERATOR FOR 2014 For over 18 years, Bethany’s congregation has been blessed by Pastor Rea's ongoing ministry. This year brings an added appreciation and excitement, as he begins a leadership role as Moderator of the Presbytery of Long Island. On January 25, Pastor Rea assumed the mantle of Moderator for 2014 of the Long Island Presbytery and will serve as leader of the 60 Presbyterian churches on Long Island. Bethany was packed - standing room only! In our Photo Gallery, see pictures of this event as Pastor Rea accepts his new role with joy, respect and humility. Page 1 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2014 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING Calling All Members: Please attend our Annual Congregation Meeting for 2014. Our meeting began with a brief opening devotional to remember beloved members lost this year. Then we heard from Committees and Groups, and voted on the Pastor's call. Be sure to pick up a booklet of committee reports. MUSIC DIRECTOR SEARCH BEGINS Bethany is actively reviewing resumes for our music/choir director position... Take note, we're asking for your patience while we review resumes and will announce a decision as soon as possible. Thank you to all candidates who sent their resume via email to Pastor James Rea or our Career Builder job posting. Our faith in God will play a key role in our final decision. The Bethany Music Director will be a dynamic church musician for our diverse and musical congregation. Keyboard skills and organ/piano experience are required; choral directing experience is desired; church music experience is preferred. • This is a part time position. For the right candidate, we are willing to work with musicians lacking church experience and/or students. Church affiliation not required. The congregation enjoys singing contemporary Christian music, gospel, jazz, blues as well as traditional hymns. Additionally, there are young people who play instruments that could be cultivated into enhanced participation in our worship service. • There is one Sunday service (and rehearsal) per week requiring prelude, postlude, hymns, responses, an anthem and offertory. There is an established chancel choir that sings twice/month and a hand bell choir. Throughout the worship year, we celebrate Christian holidays requiring musical direction. Additional services (e.g. weddings, funerals, or fundraisers) are compensated separately. The interview/audition will consist of an interview with the Search committee, musical sight reading, vocal accompaniment and two performances - one hymn and one solo performance of choice. Salary is commensurate with experience and is paid monthly. There is a probationary period and annual review. • Questions can be sent to mxg02@msn.com or call Bethany at (631) 423-6359 and we will get back to you. Learn more about Bethany by visiting the rest of our website or visiting us on Facebook @ Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington. CHECK YOUR PRESSURE EVERY MONTH It's important! Get your blood pressure checked each month - right after church on the 2nd Sunday of each month (usually). Check the Calendar for the next event and see Marilynne Geiffert for your free screening after morning worship. Know Your Numbers! The higher number -- systolic pressure -- represents when the heart beats. The lower number -- diastolic pressure -- represents when the heart rests between beats. Page 2 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2014 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington PANTRIES NEED YOUR HELP TO STAY STOCKED Please remember to include Huntington food pantry items while you shop for your Thanksgiving feast! The hunger shortage still exists and continues to grow. With your help, we can make a difference and help reduce hunger on Long Island. Bethany is dedicated to supporting the Huntington Community Food Council. Each month we focus on a particular food item -- but any non-perishable food item is always appreciated! Please leave your donation in the wicker basket in the Narthex. BPC CELEBRATES 4-YEAR ANNIVERESARY Launch Date – February 1, 2009 It's almost 4 years already since we launched Bethany's website on February 7, 2010... and its popularity continues to grow. Share your news by sending brief details or a short list about your news to ANDRIENNE7@gmail.com. 16,142 VISITS IN 2013 - THAT'S 4014 MORE VISITS SINCE LAST YEAR! And that means it’s a great way to announce your news & events, and reach more people! EASTER LILIES TO HONOR AND REMEMBER April 6 and 13 Lilies ordered on April 6 and 13 decorated the chancel on Easter Sunday. Loved ones were honored and remembered with the spectacular Easter lilies. They beautify the chancel for Easter Sunday and then beautify homes when they are taken home after service. Barbara Duncan and Doris Nelson received orders; the recommended donation is usually $20. Page 3 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2014 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington HOLY WEEK DRAMAS TELL THE GREATEST STORY The Easter Dramas are over, but His story continues... It's the greatest story ever told and each year we tell it, show it and enable you to experience it! This year, the Dramas started at Lent. They continued through Palm Sunday, the Last Supper, the Trial, and the heart-wrenching Crucifixion. On Easter Sunday, the dramas closed with the uplifting and glorious Resurrection, Holy Communion and the Flowering of The Cross. Liturgical dramas are also performed for Nativity; admission is always free. Dramas are held inside the church at 425 Maplewood Road, Huntington Station. Refreshments are served after the show. See pictures of previous Dramas in our Photo Gallery. RECOGNITION SUNDAY – WE’RE PROUD OF YOU June 1, 2014 Tempestt -- Storm -- Jordan -- Ethan -- Rachelle -- Bethany is proud of you! We recognize your hard work, discipline and accomplishments, and we congratulate you! We wish success for our College graduates: Tempestt Harris-Bucknor and Storm Harris-Bucknor. And we're just thrilled for our High School Graduates: Rechelle Dennis, Ethan Ramcharitar, and Jordan Williams May God Bless you all as you take your next steps in life. We pray that you'll remember God in all that you do. THE BEST DEACONS’ FAIR EVER October 18, 2014 This year's Deacons' Fair was by far one of the best ever! Blow up floats for kids... face painting... vendors... baked goods... hot lunch... you name it. Bethany had it all! Participants had a great time, and vendors have already asked to come back next year. Most importantly, all proceeds benefit the multiple community and mission outreach events spearheaded by Bethany Deacons throughout the year. Page 4 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2014 BETHANY WALKS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington October 2, 2014 Together, they walked to show support for the planet and: Get the attention of UN leaders, experience worship with different cultures and religious group, be part of a larger community in support of a brighter future and help secure a better future for everyone! Bethany put faith-into-action and marched together for climate change! On Sunday October 21, Bethany Presbyterian had two worship services… one at church in Huntington and one at the NYC People’s Climate March! Bethany’s High schoolers, Sunday School teachers, and Elders mobilized with nearly 400,000 peaceful protesters and walked to bring awareness to climate change. At the faith communities pre-march rally, there were many people of different faith groups and ages uniting together to worship as one. Music was in the air and slogans on signs were all around. Some of the most memorable were: 1. To change everything we need everyone Bethany’s Walkers realized that they could 2. There is no planet "B" accomplish much by working together and 3. Frack off, gas-holes although they may have individual concerns 4. Save the earth--it is the only planet with cookies. successful actions to address climate change really 5. System change, not climate change. matters to everyone. As one walker commented: “I 6. Climate change is not a question of weather. used to say: ‘someone should do something about that’… then I realized I am someone." GUESTS GIVE 'THANKS' AT NOVEMBER MICAH MEAL At our November MICAH Meal, guests were invited to 'break bread' and share fellowship with our community. Each month, Bethany Presbyterian Church hosts a common meal - provided for free - and all are welcome! Bring your family! Bring your friends! Make a friend! MICAH - Mobilized Interfaith Coalition Against Hunger - meals serve (on average) 55 guests each month – except during the summer months; events are always included on the Bethany calendar. For more information, see Scott Cornell or Arlene Harris. You can help fight hunger! Lend a hand at one of our opportunities to fight hunger. Help stock pantries, help with our garden, help with HIHI, or help with the MICAH Meal (usually the 3rd Saturday of the month). WOMEN'S CIRCLE - HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE CRAFT SALE Bethany's Presbyterian Women's Circle work hard all year to bring us special items... just in time for Christmas. Holiday craft fairs are held right after church service. ANNUAL HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIRS... are a special way for Bethany's artists and crafters to share their special talents, much like Bethany's talented singers and musicians do throughout the year. Join a Group: Circle at Twelve - Women exchange ideas and create practical gifts for holiday boutiques. Meet Wednesday, 12 noon - 2:00 pm in the Lounge. The Evening Circle - Women focus on continued bible study. Meet Wednesday, 7:30 pm in the Lounge. Page 5 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2013 Nov 2012 – Jan 2013 “The Open Door” Jan 19 – Hurricane Sandy Jan 27 – Annual Congregational Meeting Feb 1 – Souper Bowl Feb 2 – Family Game Night YOUTH PITCH IN FOR HURRICANE SANDY CLEAN-UP - January 19, 2013 God knows what you help you need and the right time to send it to you. After learning that a Bethany member still had trees (felled by Hurricane Sandy) blocking their entire yard and back door, Pastor Rea asked for a few volunteers. God knew what was needed! He and the lucky homeowners received more help than they could have imagined. That's because God knew exactly what was needed and sent help on the weekend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday - a weekend dedicated to serving others. Feb 3 – Logo Contest Feb 22 – 9th Year HIHI Feb 27 – New Leadership Feb – Mar 2013 “The Open Door” Mar 24 – Easter Dramas begin 2013 ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - January 27, 2013 The Annual Congregational Meeting of Bethany Presbyterian Church, Huntington Station, New York, was held on January 27, 2013, immediately following worship. There was a healthy Q&A discussion. See the names of staff, all officers and learn more on the ABOUT BETHANY page. Apr – May 2013 “The Open Door” Sep 28 – Presbytery Retreat Sep – Oct 2013 “The Open Door” Dec 1 – Youth in Dramas 9th Dec 8 – Annual Living Nativity Drama - “Home for Christmas – A Soldier’s Tale” FEBRUARY "SOUPER" BOWL IS BETHANY'S GAME - February 1, 2013 During February "Souper" Bowl, Bethany collected soup cans (and diapers) to help the Huntington community. Yaphank church - the reigning champ for 2 years with 800 points! - was the team to beat. 1 point = 1 soup can (or 5 diapers). Click here to learn more about Souper Bowl of Caring and see how much has been collected. Page 1 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2013 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington FAMILY GAME NIGHT WAS FUN, FUN, FUN - February 2, 2013 Games... friends... fun! That's what Bethany's "Game Night" was all about. Bethany provided the popcorn and drinks; guests provided the games and fun. Contact Nurture Committee members with questions about future Game Nights. T-SHIRT LOGO COMPETITION WRAPS- UP - February 3, 2013 Through February 3, we received your ideas for Bethany's "Eco-Green" T-shirt competition. Thank you for showing your love and creativity! BETHANY'S ENDS 9TH YEAR HELPING HOMELESS - February 22, 2013 Jesus said, "Feed my sheep." For 9 years, that's what Bethany has been doing as a participating church in the Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative (HIHI). On designated nights, Bethany provides dinner & dessert, a movie, overnight supervision, breakfast and lunch. Contact Lanzel Powell or Ed Wong to learn more about volunteer opportunities. BETHANY'S NEW LEADERSHIP - February 27, 2013 Bethany was blessed to recognize new leadership - officers who have agreed to serve for the next three years. We celebrate Ordination (members taking a position for the first time) and Installation (for returning officers). We pray for God's blessing and guidance for all ordained and installed on this day: Janet Allen-Spencer, Victor Archer, Marilynne Geiffert, Arlene Harris, Alphonzo Jackson, Matthew Roche, Chris Sellers and Alden Sprague. See "2013 New Church Leaders" in BETHANY PHOTOS. Page 2 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2013 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington HAPPY EASTER! HE LIVES - March 24-31, 2013 During Holy Week, we experienced the joyous "Passion" of the last week of Jesus life. We retraced His last days, while preparing for the Easter miracle. PALM SUNDAY- The parade-like atmosphere. MAUNDY THURSDAY- March 28 - 8 pm - The 'Last Supper' at Christ's table. GOOD FRIDAY- March 29 - 8 pm -The Tenebrae service and Crucifixion. EASTER SUNDAY- March 31 -10 am - The re-enactment of Christ's glorious Resurrection. Liturgical dramas are also performed for the Christmas Nativity and admission is always free. Dramas are held inside the church at 425 Maplewood Road, Huntington Station. Refreshments are served after the show. See "2013 Holy Week Dramas" in BETHANY PHOTOS. C0NGRATULATIONS, GRADUATES! - June 23, 2013 Congratulations, graduates! We're so proud of your recent accomplishments. You're maturing, persevering and accomplishing great success. We pray for God's continued blessings for you all. HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES... Julienne Dennis - graduating from Half Hollow, West Temple Rea - off to Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Robert Whitehorn, III - off to University at Buffalo, State University of New York. COLLEGE GRADUATES... Jonathan Harris Diah - Masters degree Public Health - Columbia University, NY Nivischi Northover Long Island University, Brookville, NY. SPIRITS RENEWED AT PRESBYTERY RETREAT - September 28, 2013 Now is the time to be aware of the presence of the Living Lord in our midst and be open to the voice and leading of the Spirit... Click here to see the short video and learn what it was about. At the Visioning retreat, members shared open ears and open hearts to hear God’s voice in the moments of silence and in the voices of their brothers and sisters in Christ. MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE – December 2013 Advent means coming or arrival and in the season of Advent, we watch and wait for the arrival of Jesus. Bethany youth get active while they're waiting - Bethany youth tell the story. Each year, Bethany youth participate in our annual Living Nativity Drama. They share their talents and make this beloved Bethany tradition a special event for members and the Huntington community. Page 3 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2013 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington NINTH ANNUAL LIVING NATIVITY DRAMA - December 8, 2013 - 5 pm To date, more than 700 people have come to experience the joy, the delight and the uplifting Christmas spirit that is Bethany’s Annual Living Nativity Drama. This year was no exception and the captivating performance added a riveting new twist to our traditional Christmas story of the night Jesus was born. "Home For Christmas - A Soldier's Tale" was a moving and powerful story that honored all who have served or are serving our country. HOME FOR CHRISTMAS... that’s exactly where “Sarge, Doc and the Private” are planning to be when unexpected events occur that threaten their plans and test their faith... DVD & PHOTOS AVAILABLE For the first time, the ‘Living Nativity’ is available on DVD for $15. (Cost covers production only, this is not a fund raiser). Make checks payable to: Bethany Presbyterian Church and include: Nativity DVD in the memo section. In our Photo Gallery, see pictures of our performance prep and the drama. HOLIDAY MAIL FOR HEROES - 121 CARDS COLLECTED! For the first time, our "free" admission benefited 121 local military and family members. We joined forces with the American Red Cross to give something that means something. Through their “Holiday Mail for Heroes” program, cards and personal messages addressed to Dear Hero, Soldier, Service Member or Veteran, were collected from Bethany members and guests who attended. Then, the cards were distributed to provide a welcome “touch of home” for troops during the holiday season. See "Home For Christmas" in BETHANY PHOTOS. Page 4 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2012 Jan 29 - Annual Congregational Meeting Feb 24 – HIHI Mar 4 – Music Director Leaves Bobbi Mogelefsky 2012 ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - January 29, 2012 What a productive Meeting! We renewed the Pastor's call, thanking God for the years that he has been with us and hoped for many more to come. We elected new officers and listened to annual updates from Session, Deacons and various committee members. We thank all vacating officers for their extra hard work and dedication. We welcome all new officers and pray that God blesses them as they take on new responsibilities. See current officers and committee members on the ABOUT BETHANY page. Mar 17 – Game Night Apr 1 – “Go Green” Project Apr 5 – Holy Week Dramas begin Apr 27 – Hope For Haiti BETHANY'S HIHI FEEDS BODY & SOUL - February 24, 2012 Thank you for helping Huntington's homeless as Bethany completed its 8th year of HIHI (Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative). Jesus said, "They need not go away; you give them something to eat." HIHI makes it possible! On designated nights, Bethany hosts the event at St. Elizabeth's Church in Melville, providing dinner & dessert, a movie, overnight supervision, breakfast and lunch. Contact Lanzel Powell or Ed Wong to share ideas or learn about volunteer requirements necessary to participate. May 27 – Confirmaniacs 2012 MUSIC DIRECTOR'S STEPS ON THE JOURNEY - March 4, 2012 Jun 2012 – Celebrate Graduates Dec 2012 – 8th Annual Living Nativity “Where’s My Angel?” Over 6 years ago, Bobbi Mogelefsky prayed that the Lord would lead her to the right place of music ministry. Bethany had an opening so she applied for it and prayed hard for guidance. After talking with the pastor and committee, she felt very much at home and thought it would be a good fit for her to worship here and contribute what she could to our music. It was a very decisive answer to her prayers at that time. See "2012 Music Director" in BETHANY PHOTOS. Page 1 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2012 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington GAME NIGHT WAS A BIG HIT IN 2012 - March 17, 2012 Game Night was a big hit. Xbox, Guitar Hero, Checkers, Taboo... Family and friends brought their favorites and had a great time. Annually, the Nurture Committee sponsors this fun event and all ages are welcome! Along with games, refreshments are served... but you're always welcome to bring your own, too. Go to the ABOUT BETHANY page to contact Nurture Committee members for details on future events. "GO GREEN" PROJECT BEGINS 2012 - April 1, 2012 Bethany started making positive changes to Go Green and become an Earth Care Congregation. With many ideas and steps to protect this beautiful planet God has entrusted to us, Bethany's journey began. Learn how our youth kicked off this initiative during worship service. See the presentation they created and learn what YOU can still do to help. See "2012 New Officers & Go Green" in BETHANY PHOTOS. HOLY WEEK DRAMAS 2012 - April 5-8, 2012 The Easter Dramas began on Palm Sunday, continued on Maundy Thursday, followed through on Good Friday and ended on Easter/Resurrection Sunday. We celebrated the last days and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ. Once a symbol of pain and suffering, the nailed cross from Good Friday was transformed into a towering beacon of beauty and life on Sunday morning. Members, family and guests 'flowered' the cross, securing a variety of beautiful flowers onto the cross. See "2012 Holy Week Dramas" in BETHANY PHOTOS. HOPE FOR HAITI - April 27, 2012 Haiti - years after the devastating earthquake - still needs a lot of help! Bethany's youth put aside Friday night parties and movies to come together for a worthy cause! Helping hands were in abundance as Bethany's youth and youth from neighboring churches and organizations, helped to pack almost 12,000 meals for the Hope for Haiti initiative. Bethany, as one of the sponsors, measured grain and spices, then weighed, heat-sealed and boxed these life-saving packages. For two hours, each production-line group bonded together for this common cause. See "2012 Haiti Meal Packing" in BETHANY PHOTOS. Page 2 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2012 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington FIVE CONFIRMANDS TAKE NEXT STEP ON SPIRITUAL JOURNEY - May 27, 2012 We're blessed to have five new confirmands! Training with Pastor Rea is complete... their spiritual journey has just begun. We celebrate "Confirmaniacs 2012": Justin Miller, Walton Rea, Shamar Powell, Rechelle Dennis and Jordan Williams. See "2012 Confirmation Class" in BETHANY PHOTOS. CELEBRATE OUR GRADUATES - June 2012 Congratulations, Bethany youth! We're so proud of your recent accomplishments. You're maturing, persevering and accomplishing great success. We pray for God's continued blessings for all: College Graduate - Natalia Whitehorn - University of North Carolina, Greensboro Campus; High School Graduate - Crystal Davis-Hannah, Jill Miller, Kaitlin Whitehorn; Bethany Confirmands - Rechelle Dennis, Justin Miller, Shamar Powell, Walton Rea, Jordan Williams. 8TH ANNUAL LIVING NATIVITY - "WHERE'S MY ANGEL" - December 2012 “Where’s My Angel?” opened with a hustle-bustle scene of busy, rude, inconsiderate shoppers who obviously had money to make purchases, but none to spare with a down-on-his-luck pan handler. The story unfolded with a couple who were shopping for a gift to donate to Bethany’s Christmas toy drive. It was clear that this couple had very different opinions about Christmas and the toy donation: the man was cynical; the woman was overjoyed. The Drama continued with the traditional Nativity story, complete with ‘elevated’ angels and a live musical performance. Finally, it transitioned back to the couple. They had come to buy a gift for Christmas; instead the man received the gift of ‘Christmas’… after meeting his angel. See "2012 Where's My Angel?" in BETHANY PHOTOS. Page 3 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2011 Jan 7 – Youth Help At HIHI Jan 30 – Annual Congregational Meeting Feb 1 – New Leaders Feb 17 – HIHI Ends Apr 11 – New Chimes Choir YOUTH HELP AT 2011 HIHI NIGHT - January 7, 2011 Team Bethany -- including our Youth -- volunteered to cook, serve and chaperone almost 30 HIHI guests. Guests received a delicious meal, yummy dessert, a warm place to sleep -- and excellent entertainment -- as they watched the 2006 Mexican Spanish-language fantasy film "Pan's Labyrinth." See "2011 Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative" in BETHANY PHOTOS. Apr 24 – Holy Week Dramas Jun 11 – Christina Coffee House Jun 12 – Recognition Picnic May 19 – Presbyterian Women Spring Gathering Jun 13 – Presbytery News Jun 17 – Celebrate Graduates 2011 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - January 30, 2011 Thank you to all who attended our 2011 Congregational Meeting. Members voted on the Pastor's Call for the new year, as well as other church officers. Highlights are: Pastor's Call renewed by unanimous vote; updates received from Pastor, Session, Treasurer, and committee members; new officers of the church elected for Session, Board of Deacons, and committees; and questions answered about state of our church and Presbyterian Church U.S.A. at large. Jun 26 – Jamaica Project Sep 17 – Scholarship Blood Drive Oct 1 – Pink Ribbons / Pastor Rea Anniversary Oct 8 – Deacons’ Fair Dec 11 – 7th Annual Living Nativity – “Go Tell it on the Mountain” CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL NEW LEADERS FOR 2011 - February 1, 2011 Congratulations to new and returning Session Elders, Deacons and Committee Members. With your generous time and talents, Bethany has the leadership to move forward and accomplish great things for God's glory. Bethany Youth are off to a running start and doing a great job as Deacons. Congratulations to Jill Miller and Camille Whitehorn -- and all new and returning Deacons -- for accepting this leadership role. Your energy and enthusiasm are setting a great example for the rest of our Bethany Youth. We're confident that with God's blessings we'll learn as much from you as you'll learn from this rewarding experience. Dec 31 – HIHI Volunteer Award Page 1 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2011 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington TEAM BETHANY ENDS 2011 HIHI - February 17, 2011 Team Bethany hosted 20 guests at St. Elizabeth's RC church off Wolf Hill Road with a delicious meal of arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), followed by dessert of fresh fresas (strawberries), helado (ice cream) and pastelillos (cupcakes). Team and guests ended the night playing card games and watching "The Book of Eli." See "2011 Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative" in BETHANY PHOTOS. NEW YOUTH CHIMES CHOIR - April 11, 2011 We're starting a Chimes Choir for students grades K-12. Rehearsals will probably be on Tuesdays, either at 4:30 pm or 6:30 p.m. The more the merrier and the more music we can make! GLORIOUS HOLY WEEK DRAMAS - April 24, 2011 We retraced the last week of Christ's life and underscored the miracle of Easter as a new beginning in our lives! Attendees experienced our interactive Dramas at 4 events: The joyful parade-like atmosphere of Palm Sunday; the Last Supper where Jesus instituted the sacrament of Holy Communion; the Tenebrae service where we remembered the crucifixion; and he Celebration of Christ's resurrection and flowering of the cross. See "2011 Maundy Thursday Drama, Easter Sunday Drama & Flowering of the Cross" in BETHANY PHOTOS. "PRAISE HIM" CHRISTIAN COFFEE HOUSE - June 11, 2011 We praised God while enjoying Christian comedy, music and fellowship! Attendees were blessed with an evening of fun... featuring the "clean" comedy stylings of Christian comedienne Pat Shea and the riveting music of the Spiritlifters! For information about Christian Coffee House events -- or hosting your own Coffee House event -contact Bob Brant at bbrant@yahoo.com. Admission ($5) and a love offering were taken, with refreshments served during intermission. Page 2 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2011 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington SUNDAY SCHOOL RECOGNITION & PICNIC - June 12, 2011 During worship, we recognized and celebrated our Sunday School students and teachers! After service, the celebration continued at our Annual Recognition & Picnic. Good food, good grilling and good fun were had by all who attended. SPRING GATHERING PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN - May 19, 2011 Featured guest speaker Joann Burrell, PWNE "Rep"/2nd USA Mission, shared her experience to South Dakota at the Spring Gathering for Presbyterian Women. This exciting event for Long Island Presbyterian Women was held at First Presbyterian Church, 717 St. Luke's Place, Baldwin, NY 11510. Highlights included worship service, dedication in Service Mission projects, and a birthday offering. NEWS FROM THE PRESBYTERY - GENERAL PRESBYTER - June 13, 2011 The Rev. Mark Tammen has announced his acceptance of the call to general presbyter for the Presbytery of Long Island, resigning his position as director of the Department of Constitutional Services in the Office of the General Assembly (OGA). Tammen, who has been with OGA for 17 years, concluded his service on May 16. He begins his new work at the Commack, N.Y.-based Presbytery of Long Island on June 13. Read more Presbytery 'Notes About People' on the Presbyterian Church, USA website. CELEBRATE OUR GRADUATES - June 17, 2011 We've watched them grow in Christ, and in life... and now they've graduated! We pray for their continued blessing and that they keep God at the forefront of all their new endeavors. Congratulations to: Samantha Jackson - College graduate, Anne Sellers - High School Graduate, and Shanika Powell - High School Graduate. Page 3 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2011 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington JAMAICA PROJECT - MORE UNIFORMS NEEDED - June 26, 2011 Thanks to the Bethany Mission team and your generosity, 42 students went to the Richmond Road Primary School in Jamaica, West Indies... and many more want to go! All they need is a uniform... and your continued support. In rural parts of Jamaica, school-aged children can attend only if they have a uniform. But for some poor families, purchasing one is not possible. The Bethany Mission Team saw this need and stepped in December of 2009. Along with the help of the local Pastor, the school principal, and a dressmaker, ABC's became a part of each child's life. We inspired them to learn... now let their motivation to continue inspire you. While you're school shopping for new outfits or the latest sneakers, think about what you would give to ensure that YOUR child (or a child you know) goes to school? 2ND ANNUAL FALL SCHOLARSHIP BLOOD DRIVE - September 17, 2011 "It's a good thing you're doing here... a good thing!" -- A blood donor commented to Bethany members. Yes, it was a good thing --- 33 Pints from 25 Donors. Thank you to all the Bethany Deacons, donors, Medical staff and volunteers who participated in our Annual Fall Scholarship Blood Drive. Long Island Blood Services (LIBS) partnered with Bethany Deacons for our Annual Blood Drive, and for coordinating a successful blood drive -collection of at least 30 units -- LIBS rewarded one student with a $250 college scholarship! The sanctuary was transformed into a 'MASH' unit as precious life-giving blood was freely shared and collected. At the end, Bethany's 'Blood Drop' did an awesome job outside the church, rallying community members as they drove by -generating several walk-in donors! See "2011 Annual Blood Drive" in BETHANY PHOTOS. PINK RIBBONS ARE THE FASHION - October 1, 2011 October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and it's a great time to wear pink! Annually, members of our Craft Circle create beautiful ribbons to benefit this worthy cause. Church members bought a pink 'Breast Cancer' ribbon for only $2... or any amount they could give. All proceeds benefit local awareness-building efforts in Huntington. help. CONGRATULATIONS, PASTOR REA - October 1, 2011 Twenty-two years ago on October 1 -- World Communion Sunday -- Pastor Rea was ordained in Iowa. We thank God he was chosen for service and pray for continued blessings. See "2009 20-Year Ordination Anniversary" in BETHANY PHOTOS. Page 4 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2011 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington ANNUAL DEACONS' FAIR 2011 - October 8, 2011 What a great day for all at Bethany's Deacon's Fair... perfect weather, lots of vendors, great food, and fellowship with the community. Thanks to all who helped by baking for the sale table, running the cafe, organizing the White Elephant sale, taking a table or just showing up! We generated quite a good sum which will be used to continue doing the Lord's work. "GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN" - LIVING NATIVITY DRAMA 2011 - December 11, 2011 Truly, this event was blessed because everyone walked away feeling they had just shared something special! Our 7th Annual Living Nativity Drama was a wonderful event -- the Bethany Drama Team brought the Christmas story to life! New for this year, our theme was: Go tell it on the mountain. It's important that we retell this story and share it from one generation to the next. It's also -- and possibly more -- important that we share it with people who may not know the story. Go tell your friends, go tell it in your neighborhood, go tell it on the mountain! Go tell it! See "2011 Go Tell it on the Mountain" in BETHANY PHOTOS. HIHI VOLUNTEERS ARE "PEOPLE OF THE YEAR" FOR 2011 - December 31, 2011 Sheltering the homeless, uniting everyone else, quietly yet industriously helping Huntington's homeless... that's who HIHI volunteers are. And for their efforts, The Times of Huntington honors them as People of the Year in Religion! Bethany Presbyterian Church is one of the more than 20 houses of worship that participate in HIHI, providing respite for the homeless during the winter months. Each night from December through March, dozens of volunteers from over 25 churches and synagogues in Huntington Township quietly collaborate to house and feed the homeless under the auspices of the Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative. See "2011 Huntington Interfaith Homeless Initiative" in BETHANY PHOTOS or go to top of 2011 ARCHIVES. Donations may be sent to Family Service League (designating HIHI), 790 Park Avenue, Huntington, NY 11743. The Northport Times is a newspaper in Northport, NY; first published in 2004. It covers local news, sports, business, jobs and community events for Northport, Eaton's Neck, East Northport, Fort Salonga-West, Asharoken, Centerpoint and surrounding Suffolk County communities. It is owned by Times Beacon Record Media. Page 5 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2010 Jan 7 – Jamaica Project Launch Feb 7 – Boy Scout Sunday / Bethany website Launch Feb 10 – Youth Rock-a-thon Apr 3 – Easter Egg-stravaganza JAMAICA PROJECT LAUNCHED - January 7, 2010 Bethany supports education in our community here... and in Jamaica, West Indies. Elder Sookmin Harris reported that materials for girls school uniforms were purchased and a dressmaker was hired. Uniforms for boys were purchased ready-made. This mission project began in December of 2009. May 7 – Movie Night Jun 17 – Church Member Honored – “Triple Nickels’ Jul 4 – iBethany Work Campers Sep 11 – “In Remembrance” Blood Drive Oct 23 – Opera Night Dec 10 – Adopt an Angel Dec 11 – Bethany Facebook page BOY SCOUT SUNDAY - February 7, 2010 Bethany celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the founding of the Boy Scouts of America. That's 100 years of youth development of which Bethany Presbyterian has participated as a sponsoring organization of Boy Scout troops and a Cub Scout pack. Religious faith has been a major part of character development of scouts, one of the primary aims of Scouting. A Scout is reverent is the 12th point of the Scout Law - he is reverent toward God. He is faithful to his religious duties and respects the convictions of others in matters of custom and religion. Learn more or join a troop near you on the official Boy Scouts of America site. Dec 19 – Christmas Joy Offering Dec 25 – 6th Annual Living Nativity – “On The Night Our Lord Was Born” WWW.BETHANY - WE'RE ON THE INTERNET - February 7, 2010 Welcome to Bethany's website. Please browse via the navigation bars above or below and visit us frequently. We look forward to worshiping and sharing our Christian life with you. Share your thoughts via our email link -- we want to hear from you! Bethany Presbyterian Church is active in our diverse community and offers weekly worship, Holy Communion, Children's ministry ...and much more. Page 1 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2010 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington YOUTH GROUP ROCK-A-THON FUNDRAISER - February 19, 2010 Youths rocked for 5 fun hours to raise funds for the 2010 Youth Work Camp trip. As teams, they rocked in rocking chairs and as a band, they grooved while playing Guitar Hero. See 2010 "i-Bethany Work Camp" and "More Work Camp" in BETHANY PHOTOS. EASTER RESURRECTION EGG-STRAVAGANZA - April 3, 2010 Spring was in the air at our Easter EGG-stravaganza. We sprung into action at 12 noon and were blessed with a beautiful day! Children 10 and under in our neighboring communities hunted for Easter eggs, heard the Easter story and had funs with crafts and face painting. It made many of us reminisce one of our earlier events. See 2006 EGG-stravaganza" in BETHANY PHOTOS. MOVIE NIGHT WITH WORK CAMPERS - May 7, 2010 Thanks to all who came to a movie and donated to the Youth Work Camp. Two great movies were seen for a great price. Youths and friends watched "Night at the Museum" and "Star Trek." All funds supported the 2010 work camp trip to Worton, Maryland, to help rebuild communities. See 2010 "i-Bethany Work Camp" and "More Work Camp" in BETHANY PHOTOS CHURCH MEMBER HONORED ON PRESBYTERY SITE - June 17, 2010 It's always a great time to share good news -- especially when it's about a Bethany family member. The Presbytery of Long Island reported that Elder Clarence Beavers was honored at a ceremony at the Pentagon for his service as one of the first African-American paratroopers trained during WWII! General George Casey, Army Chief of Staff, along with many dignitaries in the Department of Defense, was present. Learn more about Beavers and his fellow "Triple Nickels" and their contribution to American history. Page 2 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2010 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BETHANY YOUTH LEAD WORSHIP AFTER WEEK-LONG WORK CAMP - July 4, 2010 We are unified.... We are diverse... ..We are Bethany! Bethany received a special treat when worship service was led by ten of Bethany's youth: Jill Miller, Justin Miller, Shamar Powell, Temple Rea, Walton Rea, Anne Sellers, Kaitlin Whitehorn, Robert Whitehorn III and Jordan Williams. They shared the amazing time they experienced while serving for one week at the Youth Work Camp in Worton, Maryland. Work Camp 2010 - 'UNDESERVED' - ran from June 27-July 3. Your support and generosity made this year's work camp event possible -- and what a thrill it was. Our young Christians chose -- and completed -- various tasks, helping others less fortunate than themselves. Painting, digging, hammering and more physical labor were the order for the week; all completed with smiles on their faces and God's joy in their hearts. May God bless their leadership and nurture them along their path of continual spiritual growth. See 2010 "i-Bethany Work Camp" and "More Work Camp" in BETHANY PHOTOS. "IN REMEMBRANCE" BLOOD DRIVE - September 11, 2010 You came, you paid tribute and donated... and saved a life! Thank you, thank you, thank you -- we met our goal! We collected 36 pints (our goal was 30!) from 49 volunteers. And your contribution went further than you may know; it also benefited scholarship efforts for one of our high school students. OPERA NIGHT - October 23, 2010 Bravo! Bethany's 2nd Opera Night was another musical success. Opera Night featured many of Long Island's best tenors and sopranos... all professionally trained, who may someday grace the stage of the Metropolitan Opera House. Singers in costumes designed by local artists performed arias from Mozart, Verdi, Puccini and more. Audiences were dazzled with heartfelt performances of arias and a few Gershwin tunes. The Opera Night performance was directed by Isabella Eredita Johnson who runs the Northport series and featured 90 minutes of opera highlights, preceded by 30 minutes of delightful chamber music. Ms. Johnson also performed a short piano concert as a prelude to the opera. Page 3 BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2010 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington ADOPT AN ANGEL - December 10, 2010 Once again, Bethany members opened their hearts to help spread Christmas joy -- thank you! We know it's not about the presents, but... there is a special happiness that lights up a child's face when they open a pretty package on Christmas morning. Members joyfully took ownership of 'Adopt an Angel' cards and helped make Christmas wishes come true. Each card represented a child, including their age and simple gift request. Gifts were delivered to the church office and picked up by the Family Service League. LET'S BE FRIENDS - BETHANY'S ON Facebook - December 11, 2010 Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington joins the social network. That's right, we're on Facebook! Our new FB page provides another way for the Bethany family to stay connected, keep the 'conversations' going and with God's generous blessing... make new friends! Check out photos - but please don't tag anyone other than yourself! We want to respect everyone's privacy. We'll respond to friend requests as soon as possible. CHRISTMAS JOY ENVELOPE - December 19, 2010 It was the season to be generous... with your time, talents and yes... possessions, too. Bethany members made room in their hearts and filled Christmas Joy envelopes! Thank you for spreading Christmas joy. We know you were busy making your list and checking it twice, but you still remembered to think about those not as fortunate. Special thanks for also donating your time to our community events, donating presents in our toy collection box, and donating flowers for the alter. JOY TO THE WORLD - THE LORD IS BORN - LIVING NATIVITY DRAMA - December 25, 2010 O, come all ye faithful and go tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born! What child is this? The Christ child and the greatest gift that we've been given. Who would imagine a king would be born, away in a manger in a little town of Bethlehem? It happened on that first noel -- that silent night, that holy night -- while shepherds watched their flocks by night. Angels from the realms of glory came to proclaim His birth. Do you hear what I hear? It's the glorious sound of... Merry Christmas! See "2010 On the Night Our Lord was Born" in BETHANY PHOTOS. Page 4 DIVERSE PEOPLE UNITED BY GOD’S LOVE IN EVERYDAY LIFE Worship Sundays 10am Give Gift$ The Rev. Dr. James B. Rea, Jr., Pastor (631) 423-6359 Facebook: Bethany Presbyterian Church Huntington BETHANY ARCHIVES - 2009 YOUTH WORK CAMP PAINTS A HOUSE - August 2009 Submitted by the Fortunate Homeowner: "Bethany Youth Work Camp 2009 arrived at my home. Scrapers, ladders, paint brushes, tape, buckets and eye goggles -- just to name a few pieces of the equipment that arrived... and the work began. What I imagined as a quick paint job became such thorough work that I was amazed. I will never be able to know how the youth felt or if they know the difference it made in my life, but I know what life lessons I learned this very special week. Neighbors called to find out what was going on. Where did these wonderful young people come from? What program does my church have that would demonstrate such care? The inquiries were endless. I felt loved, I felt special ...thank you with all my heart." See "2007 House Paint Work Camp" in BETHANY PHOTOS or go to BETHANY ARCHIVES page.