April, 1999
Keeping Members and Friends Informed
Promoting Fellowship
Contributing to Spiritual Growth
Partnering with Potter Park UMC
By Joi Tennant, Co-Chairperson, Central's Mission Commission
Every afternoon, Monday through Thursday, children from the neighborhood
just north of Potter Park are dismissed from several different schools and
head to an unassuming brick church, which seems almost hidden from the rest
of the world, on a side street where little bungalows line up in every direction.
Once a typical middle class neighborhood, the multiethnic residents who now
populate this area struggle with the never-ending challenges of perpetually
low income and all the ways that problem eats away at family stability and
the desire to have a better life. For some of the 40 - 50 children who stop
by for an after-school visit, the church staff have represented security
and love for all of their young lives, like Mike who is 15 and told me he
has "been coming here since I was 3." But for many of the children, life
is a topsy-turvy arrangement that has no predictability, and the "family"
and home they know today is not the one they had last year or will have next
year. For all of these children and their families, Potter Park United Methodist
Church and Outreach Ministries provide refuge, dependability, compassion
and hope.
The children climb the stairs, clamor through the door, some stopping to
visit with Joyce Lemons, the church secretary, before going down the narrow
dark hallway to the open door where Cris Bobier greets them warmly. Cris
has been the Outreach Director at Potter Park for 13 years. Her office is
crowded with computer desks and computers around 2 walls, a round table and
chairs in the middle, and games and books on the shelves. In the middle of
the table there is always a basket full of a variety of good after-school
snacks. Some kids grab a snack and leave, and others settle in for an hour
or two of educational computer games, conversation, or some kind of simple
art activity. There is no agenda, just a gentle, friendly feeling that this
could be Grandma's house. Cris seems to maintain this cozy, peaceful atmosphere
simply by her loving presence and calm words. Some children ask for help
with their homework.
In the summer, Potter Park Outreach offers a 10-wk. summer lunch program
for these same children. Everyday approximately 50 kids come to the church
for 2-3 hours of activities and free lunch. Three days a week the food is
provided by Lansing School District, trucked in to the church for 8 of the
10 weeks. Monday & Wednesday Potter Park has a Community Meal, like our
Fellowship Lunch, and the children eat with the many adults who come. One
day last summer, they served 132 people from a kitchen and dining room about
1/3 the size of ours. The 2 weeks that the Lansing Schools does not provide
lunch for the kids, Cris asks various churches to provide one of the day's
food. Cris hires extra 20 hrs per week part time help to staff this daily
activity program. A significant part of Cris' job is securing the monies
to fund all the ministries provided. Our Mission Commission, through the
generous gift of Ed Rowe, was able to designate a gift of $1500 to pay the
wages for one part-time summer worker.
Cris covets any volunteer help she can find for this summer program. The
best arrangement for the kids and for her is someone who commits to a regular
once-or-twice-a-week schedule. Some volunteers come to the program with a
project or activity they'd like to offer, such as teaching Spanish or
macramé. Others just show up ready to listen and pay attention to
kids or go along on a field trip. One year our church took our Bible School
to Potter Park, which was particularly appreciated because their church has
so few actual active members, that those who are faithful are spread thin.
Our Mission Commission voted to make Potter Park Outreach Ministries one
of our projects this year. Certainly, we know that the money we have supplied
from the Ed Rowe Fund is much appreciated. But we believe it is also almost
too easy, actually downright painless, for us to sit back and allow this
to serve as our mission contribution. Ed Rowe is the only one who deserves
any applause for this gift. We would like to encourage you to consider if
you might be a summer volunteer, or perhaps we could make up a small mission
team and take a mini Bible School experience to Potter Park Church once a
week. We will be praying that the inspiration might come to 2, 3, or 4 people
to serve God in this way. This could be a genuine ministry and a neat small
group experience for the team. Are we able to "walk our talk?"
There is much more to tell about this church and its daily struggles to serve
its neighbors. Their new pastor is Kathleen O'Connor who has found a whole
new life in this place.
Watch for our photo display about the complete services of Potter Park Outreach,
coming soon to a bulletin board near you!
Global MissionsCommission
By Carolyn Schuurmans, Co-Chairperson
RED BIRD MISSION'S CARDINAL SINGERS
We have become a "covenant" church supporting Mark and Rebecca Smallwood
at the Red Bird Mission in Beverly, Kentucky. Mark directs the music program
and is bringing the Cardinal Singers to Wyoming Park UMC on Saturday, April
10th, at 7:00 p.m.
If you would like to go, please give me a call at 321-0569. If enough people
want to go we can take the church van.
MISSION NOTES
The Global Missions Commission voted to use Edward Roe Trust Fund to help
Larry and Laura Hills complete their projects in the Congo before they retire
in May, 1999. We have sent $3,000 for tuition for an outstanding young man
who is in seminary, preparing for the ministry. We also sent $2,000 to help
complete the construction of a number of churches there.
Also, $1,500 was sent to the Sudan for famine relief. And $1,500 is planned
to be used to support the Potter Park Outreach summer program for children.
See cover story about Partnering With Potter Park
UMC.
PRAYERS AND SYMPATHY
To the family and friends of Beatrice H.Vincent who passed away March 3,
1999.
MEMORIAL SERVICE
There will be a Memorial Service for Ken Browand in the Sanctuary on April
24th beginning at 1:00 p.m. Ken died in Florida on February 20, 1999.
THANK YOU
Many thanks to my church friends who helped with my birthday party on Saturday,
February 27. Such an occasion like this gives me happy memories of the day.
Thanks to all of you, Lois Myers
THOUGHTFUL GIFT
The new lighting updates in Fellowship Hall were paid for by Lois Myers in
memory of her sister, Irene Beadle. Even though Irene lived in San Diego,
California, she loved attending Central when she visited Lois. Thank you,
Lois, for your thoughtful and generous gift. You have as always, brightened
our lives in more ways than one.
International Year of Older Persons Celebration
Central United Methodist Church, Monday, April 12, 1999 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Tri-county Office on Aging will present a program on Wellness
Guest speaker: Nancy Weber
Free luncheon following program, RSVP by April 5, 1999 by calling
485-9477
Parking available at First Presbyterian Church with shuttle service provided
to and from Central UM Church.
Common Cents
By Ruthann Jaquette,
Business and Building Manager
We have been very busy on the financial front the past two months. As I reported
to you in January our 1999 budget exceeds our expected income and we have
been working diligently to find ways to trim our expenditures or increase
our revenue. As many of you know, we have organized groups of cleaning teams
to assist with the light custodial duties. In this way we can reduce our
costs for paid custodial services. (All new volunteers are
welcome!)
In early April, you will be receiving your first quarterly statement of giving.
If you made a pledge for 1999, please check that the correct amount has been
entered. If we have pledge amounts entered incorrectly it can give us an
inaccurate picture of our expected income for this year. If your amount is
not correct, or if you did not make a pledge and wish to do so, please contact
me at the church office.
If you have any other questions regarding your statement please feel free
to contact me as well.
Faithfully Yours, Ruthann
SPECIAL CLASS ON INDONESIA
The Global Missions Commission is sponsoring a church school class on the
country of Indonesia beginning Sunday, April 11th in the Dining Room. Patsy
Coffman, who taught at the Conference School of Christian Missions, will
teach three of the classes, alternating with commission members in leading
the group.
The book used by the class will "introduce North Americans to a distant island
country of the many ancient and complex cultures caught up in a headlong
dash into the modern world economy."
A sweeping survey chapter presents the history of the Indies, moving ...
from the days of flourishing kingdoms on Java and Bali, through three centuries
as a Dutch colony, to independence under two autocratic presidents. Changing
economic systems and successive imported religions including Christianity,
are noted.
Please join us for this exciting adventure.
Carolyn Schuurmans
New in the Church Library
Three great new adventure video VHS movies been given to the Church Library
by Win Anderson. They are for the family and come from the "Young Heroes
of the West" series:
A GIRL OF THE LIMBERLOST,
Parents' Choice Award
Story is set in rural Indiana in 1908. Elnora Comstock is determined to attend
high school, even though her widowed mother calls her goal a "foolish dream."
Elnora finds comfort in another woman, Jean Stratton Porter, a naturalist.
When taxes on the farm come due. Elnora must choose between her own dreams
of a better life and her mother's demand that she quit school to help with
the harvest. In color, approximately 105 minutes.
A WALTZ THROUGH THE HILLS,
WonderWorks Family Movie
When Australian children Sammy Dean and her older brother Andy are suddenly
orphaned, they fear that they will be separated and placed in foster homes.
So they set off alone on foot, hoping to reach a ship that will take them
to England and their only surviving relatives. The two young runaways must
make their dangerous journey through some of the world's harshest terrain
- the wilds of the Australian outback. In color, approximately 116
minutes.
CADDIE WOODLAWN,
WonderWorks Family Movie
Based on a tale that has capitaved children for generations, this enchanting
family movie radiates the excitement of pioneer life. Caddie is a spirited
11-year-old growing up in the wilds of the 1860's Wisconsin. Although her
mother hopes to make a lady out of her, the pigtailed tomboy yearns for
adventure. Even her gallant city uncle cannot tame her. Caddie reveals her
true maturity in a thrilling climax, when she plays a key role in keeping
the peace between area settlers and the Dakota Indians. In color, approximately
116 minutes.
Fellowship Opportunities
Central Niters ...
... are planning a trip to the Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids on Saturday,
April 17th. to view the butterfly exhibit. For additional information and
details, call Bob or Peggy Stebbins at 372-5690.
Central Young Adults ...
... have yet to formalize their Spring/Summer Program schedule. Check Sunday
Bulletins for upcoming events or call Dennis or Denise Kelley at 484-9106
Education, Worship and Service Opportunities
Denise Fabbri, Program Director
Adult Electives April 11-May 23 Unit 6 Theme "Winds of Hope"
Courtship After Marriage
Dale & Carolyn Kirkby Room 27
Whole People of God
Joi Tennant
Centennial Room
Global Ministries Study on Indonesia
Special guest speaker,
Patsy Coffman
Dining Room
Scholarship Forms
Central's Educational Grants Committee is accepting applications for this
year's scholarship awards. Applications will be available in the office.
This year's deadline is April 19th. The Scholarship Committee will meet May
2, 1999 at 7:00 p.m. to determine awards.
Teacher Appreciation Luncheon
This year's Teacher Appreciation Luncheon will be held on May 2, 1999 at
12:15 pm. Volunteers (not our teachers) are need to help set-up, prepare,
and clean-up. Deserts are also requested from the congregation. Anyone interested
in helping, please contact me.
Heifer Project Carnival and All Church Picnic
The Education Commission will be continuing to raise funds to purchase an
Ark for the Heifer Project with an end of the year Carnival and picnic on
June 6th. Watch for more information in the future, but mark your calendar
with the new date!
Youth Volunteer Emergency
Central's UMYF Group is in dire need of a male and female chaperone/counselor
to go with the youth to the 1999 Ichthus Ministries Festival of Faith. The
faith event combines music, ministry, and teaching to powerfully impact teens
with faith and make an exciting and moving experience. We would be especially
interested in those persons who have worked with the youth of our church
before, or have experiences with youth/teens. Ichthus is Thursday, April
22 through Sunday, April 25. Please contact me if you're interested in
volunteering. Additional information will be provided at a later
date.
Mother's Day Celebration
The Education Commission and the Music Department are combining efforts for
a special Mother's Day worship service. All children are invited to become
a member of the new singing group, Central's Choral. This group will sing
on Mother's Day. Julie Cooper, the children's coordinator, will be providing
other parts for the children's participation in the worship service. Practice
for the Choral will be on April 11th and May 2nd following the children's
sermon, and May 9th at 8:50 before the service. If you have any questions,
please call either Caryn Welter, Michelle Smith, or Julie
Cooper.
Tri-County Office on Aging Program
Nancy Weber, from Tri-County on Aging, will present our first program on
"Wellness" at Central on April 12th at 10:30. Following the program, we will
have a free luncheon provided by the Tri-County office for those 60 and over.
Reservations are required by April 5th and transportation can be arranged
by calling the office. Additional parking will be available at the First
Presbyterian Church with a shuttle service to Central. Please feel free to
invite guests, just make the necessary reservations. If you have any questions,
please contact me.
United Methodist Women
Pat Mort, President
Lenten Brunch Report
Thank you to all who battled the elements to make it to our Lenten Brunch.
There is nothing quite like planning an event for all to enjoy and grow through
and then having the weather "turn" on you. And, there's nothing liking praying
for guidance, deciding to go ahead with it and having people come out who
did. We are fortunate enough to have some join us whose previous plans were
either canceled or postponed.
The lunch was wonderful - never having had corned beef or fish molded salads
before I truly enjoyed every bite. And the music by David Schuurmans and
Margaret Ebersole was inspiring. Marge Sleight and Arline Roe did a marvelous
job with the presentation on the Passion Play of Oberammergau. Thank you,
thank you, thank you! And the Judy Grove Circle came through again, with
coordination, favors and the Call to Prayer devotions. Ladies, what would
we do without you?
Beth and Dick Murley were there, which we were very glad to see. Beth did
a lovely job coordinating the table set ups. Thanks Beth and all those who
helped her.
And a huge thank you to Susan Grettenberger and Mary Boudreau for seeing
the condition of the sidewalks and parking lot were in and without hesitation
grabbing snow shovels and spreading salt ... all because they knew United
Methodist Women would show up for the program. Susan and Mary, we all thank
you very much. And thanks to your boys, Maurice Paul and Effrem Jackson and
Antionio Jordan for passing out the programs. Great job,
guys!
From Hate To Love
Everyone who knows me knows that I love to read. And, as United Methodist
Women, we are fortunate to have two magazines that are definitely worth reading
each time they come out. Response and New World Outlook are remarkable in
their in-depth coverage of issues confronting us in our day to day living.
I especially recommend the February issue of Response to anyone who has not
had a chance to read it. The entire magazine is focused on transforming hate
with love. Powerful stories and examples are examined on each page.
If you don't do any other reading of UMW materials this year you owe it to
yourself to read the February Response. It will stay with you for a
lifetime.
Mission Team Meets Soon
Our next Mission Team meeting will be April 6th at 6:30 p.m. in the Church
Centennial Room. We welcome any and all who would like to join
us.
Coupons, Tabs, and Labels
Pat Basgall in the Church Office is collecting Betty Crocker coupons to get
some things for the office. If you have any you are willing to part with,
Pat will put them to good use.
UMW is still collecting aluminum pull tabs, Bill Knapp's points and Campbell's
labels. There is a box, made by our own Dottie Stark, in the Coat Room outside
the library where you can put all these items.
Remember, whatever we collect is put to very good
use.
CHURCH WOMEN UNITED
April 12th at 1:00 p.m. Okemos Presbyterian Church
Carol Mead speaking on Literacy at Home and in South Africa
Board meeting at 10:00 a.m. Please bring a sack lunch ... and a
friend!
PLEASE
Please give the following special volunteer ministry some prayerful
consideration!
Additional volunteers are needed to assist the Church Office by covering
the reception desk during the day.
No specific skills are necessary. Our basic need is to have someone answer
the telephone and greet members and visitors.Training sessions will be provided
at your convenience. Please contact Pat Basgall at the church Office for
more information.
Get Ready for Summer Camp
By Denise Fabbri, Program Coordinator
Already several people are signed up to attend camp this summer. Simon Holoweiko,
Danny Stinson, and John Forgrave are planning on attending at Grand Traverse.
Seth Holoweiko and Kelsey Cooper will be going to the New Action Camp at
Wesley Woods. Abby Cooper is planning on Grand Traverse Elementary camp.
David and Tyler Jaquette are going to attend the Northern Michigan mini camp
in August. So if you want to go, get your applications turned in soon!
Applications are available through my office.Camperships are available to
help cover the costs of camp and donations to make this possible are always
welcome.
Memorial Weekend Family Camp. A few of Central's families are planning on
attending a weekend camp over the Memorial Day weekend and wish to extend
an invitation to other families to join them. This campsite, Judson Collins,
has dormitories that sleep up to 8 people with a private bathroom for $70.00
or campsites with electricity for $45. Anyone interested in joining this
group, please contact Ruthann Jaquette.
Upcoming Events
Lugnut Christian Family Night
In response to the fun we had last year, Central has reserved a block of
40 tickets for the Saturday, May 1st Lugnut Ballgame (renamed Christian Family
Night). A pregame program starts at 4:45 p.m. The ballgame starts at 6:05
p.m. The reserved tickets can be purchased at $5.50 each, by contacting Jim
Hane at 669-3306 after April 3rd.
Leukemia Fund Raiser
Our church will be hosting a Fund Raising Brunch and Silent Auction on Sunday,
April 25th from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This event is to help raise money
for a 6 month old baby boy, Travis Seavolt, who has leukemia and will be
undergoing a complete bone marrow transplant in April. Please join us in
support of this family.Tickets can be purchased during Fellowship Coffee
Hour between now and then as well as through the Church Office, or by contacting
Jeanie Sanders at 321-3220. Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $5 for children
ages 3 - 12 and free for those under 3.
The History Corner
Reminises from Central's past
Contributed by Central's Commitee on Church History
1978, March 22
Central's Girls' Sr. High basketball team, coached by Dick Murley, Paul Thompson,
and Jim Clock, won the All-Sportsmanship Award at the play-off of the United
Methodist West Michigan Conference. Central's Senior High boys' team, coached
by Fred Stabley, Jr., Pete Edmunds, and Art Farmer, won the conference
championship. Central's Brian Murley was awarded the Individual Good
Sportsmanship Trophy. And Central's team was chosen as the 1978 Good
Sportsmanship Team of the West Michigan Conference.
1980, February 27
Following the second worship service, Central celebrated the 25th anniversary
of Rev. Van Lente entering ordained ministry. Before entering into ministry,
Van had a large variety of jobs: gas station owner, baker, furniture upholsterer,
machinist, decorator, cook, restaurant owner,
etc.
Mini Sermon:
Some Christians are like a good watch: open of face, pure gold, quietly busy,
and full of good works. How about you?
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