Central

Journal . . . electronic edition

                                                                                                         February, 2004

Keeping Members and Friends Informed

                                      Promoting Fellowship                                                                                       
                                                         Contributing to Spiritual Growth

A look back and a look forward...
Jamie Zimmer, Chair, Administrative Council


The Administrative Council at Central Church represents the dynamic tension created by the seemingly competing needs of the maintenance, repair and upkeep of the building, Central's long–held practice of outreach to the larger community, and the desire to fill the spiritual needs of its membership.

2003 has been an amazing year. We began by balancing our budget on paper by eliminating funding for the radio ministry and payment of our Apportionments. No one wanted this to actually happen.

A Renewal Initiative Committee was formed, chaired by David Mills, to develop plans for a Spiritual Renewal weekend and a Second Chance opportunity for giving. The Evangelism–Nurture Commission, chaired by Dale Kirkby, went to work soliciting contributions to the radio ministry. Council members began to spread the word that the church needed to make a new commitment to its ministry and countless people rolled up their sleeves to plan, work and give. Rev. McReynolds inspired us with his preaching and example of faith.

The Board of Trustees, chaired by Susan Grettenberger, spent countless hours quietly dealing with several emergencies in the building. They have managed our endowments carefully and are in the process of replacing the Temple House roof and repairing the sanctuary building roof to prevent further damaging leaks. Central Church needs renovation in some important areas to prepare for its future, and “Miracle Sunday”, coming in May, will address those realities.

The events of December and January are testimony to a congregation filled with Christ's Spirit and a determination to support the work and ministry of the church.

The end of 2003 saw Central's members fully support the radio ministry into 2004 and we paid 73% of our Apportionments; an increase over 2002.

Your generosity has allowed us to help support the new Open Door Ministry. Although Cris Bobier is technically hired by and funded by a non–profit corporation, she will be an integral part of Central's community ministry. Rev. “Bill” Amundsen will come on our staff to provide some assistance in the areas of visitation, stewardship and discipleship training. Rev. Rob Nystrom will become our new Minister of Christian Education. In response to greater building usage, the Ad Council approved an additional ten hours per week of custodial assistance to Tom Towsley. Also, Elisabeth Wangen will be our new nursery caregiver/teacher.

God is good! Your response has been blessed by the power of the Holy Spirit. You have stepped forward with your prayers, your presence, your gifts and your service. Whether you pray, sing, wield a dust mop, teach, sew, make phone calls, provide cookies, serve at the front desk or provide for the needy, you are indeed fulfilling your calling to Christian ministry.

The Ad Council looks forward to 2004 with a balanced budget, new members, a fabulous staff, spiritual renewal taking place in lots of small ways, and with great anticipation as God leads us forward to be His people in this place and in this time.
more good news...
Rev. Dr. Russell McReynolds


What’s happening with the downtown church?

Central, located at 215 N. Capitol Avenue, is the only downtown United Methodist Church in Lansing. Its history and location next to the State Capitol, go back to 1889. It appears that downtowns throughout the US have been abandoned. Restaurants and other businesses shut down in the early evenings. Parking and safety, in the planning process for doing ministry, have always been concerns.

So I was thrilled when the other Lansing area UMC churches and the pastors, said yes to our invitation to have Ash Wednesday Service on Wednesday, February 25, 7 p.m., at Central United Methodist Church. Over 25 UMCs, plus Trinity AME and Westminster Presbyterian Churches, will be present. It was a victory for downtown. Besides, we have solutions to concerns for parking and safety.

Rev. William Wylie–Kellermann, an outstanding scholar–activist and a clergy member of the Detroit Conference, will be the preacher. He too, in his practice of ministry, is committed to enhancing and revitalizing downtown. He indeed will have a word from God to share.

There will be a mass choir composed of 100 voices from the participating churches. Central will be filled to capacity. We will get an opportunity to use the newly built parking ramp and all the other available places around the church. Plan to be a part of the Ash Wednesday observation. Allen Roberts II, 8 year old son of Allen Roberts and Kimberly Bryant–Roberts, will do special music. Refreshments, provided by Central, will give opportunity for inter–church fellowship.

Jamie Zimmer, chair of the Administrative Council, on the first page of this edition of the Journal, has already introduced the newly recruited paid staff. It is a complete joy to serve on the team of paid staff and volunteers in a downtown church. Many of our friends throughout the West Michigan Conference are asking the question: How did you find such qualified and resourceful people to be on the Central team? My answer is that we are favored and blessed by God. I am excited and watching the many volunteers who answer phones and clean and beautify the facilities for ministry.

And this is happening downtown too. C. Jon Holmes and others are introducing me to ways to better care for myself. C Jon invited me to spend this past week taking advantage of the fitness center at the University Club. Frank Joranko has given me strategies to lower my blood pressure and get physically fit. My aim is to get back into my running to participate in the Run For Determination (5 K) and compete with Bob Wangen. There is always bragging rights.

So the downtown church is the place to be. All kinds of things are happening. God is in this place and I am glad to be here. So, “...lets keep our eyes on the prize” and hold on.
                                                                                     Russell
Youth Previews

FUN NIGHT

February 1, 5 – 6:30 p.m.

Meet Rev. Rob Nystrom
MusicNotes
Caryn Welter, Music Director


Thank you for your ongoing support of Central's music program. Your kind and gracious words of encouragement, as well as your positive feedback, mean a great deal to all of us in the music department.

There are lots of special events coming up on the music calendar. Hopefully, some or all of them will touch your fancy / interest / spiriituality, at stopping–off points along your year's faith journey.

On Sunday, February 8, everyone is invited to attend a concert of organ music combined with other instrumental settings. The event will be at Edgewood United Church of Christ, beginning at 4:00 p.m. Michael Crouch will be the featured organist. This promises to be good, folks!

This year's Ash Wednesday service will be at 7:00 p.m. on February 25 here at Central UMC. A mixed choir will lead the worship music and work together to sing two pieces. The massed choir will meet at 5:30 that evening to rehearse.

Sunday, March 21, at 4:00 p.m. our Chancel Choir will join with other community churches to present a festival at Plymouth Congregational Church, located at 2001 Grand River in Lansing. The event is sponsored by the Greater Lansing Chapter, American Guild of Organists. Dr. David Rayl, Director of MSU’s Choral Music Activities will conduct.

Palm Sunday, April 4, finds all our choral groups participating. What a joy it is to see everyone in the procession of palms on this very special day.

Easter Sunday, April 11, will be underscored by a group of talented brass players, and will include both Chancel Choir and Spirit Singers anthems.

May 23's Celebration of Music finds a guest saxophonist leading the Wesley Choristers and Spirit Singers in an interesting arrangement of “Jesus Loves Me,” by Michael Hassell.


Here is a tentative worship participation schedule for the Wesley Choristers and Youth Musical Group – rehearsals are 9 a.m., in the sanctuary

February 8 – Wesley Choristers
February 22 – Youth
March 14 – Wesley Choristers
March 21 – Youth
April 4 – Palm Sunday – Wesley Choristers and Youth
April 18 – Wesley Choristers, along with assistance from some youth, do their portrayal of Fly, Pretty Angels, Fly.
April 25 – Youth
May 9 – Mother's Day – Wesley Choristers and Youth
May 23 – Celebration of Music – Wesley Choristers and Youth (This will be their last program.)
Sign up for Coffee Hour
Jamie Zimmer, Chair, Ad Council


Introducing Alice Pifer, our new chairperson for the Fellowship Coffee Hour. Alice and her brother, Steve, have transferred their membership to Central and we are deeply appreciative of Alice’s willingness to support the church in this important way.

Volunteers who serve and provide cookies are asked to continue to sign up on the large bulletin board in Fellowship Hall. Virginia Cantwell will call to remind volunteers and copies of detailed instructions for those serving are available at the front desk.
Church & Society to Sponsor Panel Discussion


Panel members from Central Church will be discussing The Civil Rights Movement and Racism. This program will be held on a Sunday in February during the Church School hour. Further information forthcoming.
CHURCH & SOCIETY TO SPONSOR 2004 LENTEN SERIES
Kayla Tipton, CoChair, Church and Society Commission


Church & Society is in the process of obtaining speakers for a Lenten Luncheon Series. Mark your calendars for five consecutive Wednesdays, 12:15–1:00 p.m. beginning March 3 and concluding March 31. Well–known politicians will be speaking on how their spirituality influences their decision making. Further information forthcoming.
UnitedMethodist Women
Pat Mort, President


I like many things—I adore a select number of things. Mozart is one of them. His music touches my soul in a way that few things do. I am used to hearing his music in a certain way, on the same instruments. A few months ago I picked up a CD entitled “Mozart Variations”, a Windham Hill compilation. Suddenly, I’m listening to Mozart with new ears, played on classical guitar, with electric violin in an almost jazz mode, with conga drums and flamenco guitar and sung with the human voice that soars. I am struck by how new and fresh it all sounds–almost like I’d never heard Mozart before! New ways of expressing timeless ideas. It shakes things up. I like that.

This is a new year for UMW. We are off to a good start after a grand 2003 where we struggled with finances but ended up sending in more than the amount pledged. Our UMW library books are sought after. Our studies are solid, and we had good programs which are open to the entire church. Our members are involved in the ministries of Central and beyond.

In 2004 we have decisions to make, pledges to keep, ministries to fulfill, missions to sustain. We will grow together and individually. Let’s look forward with new eyes, listen for God’s calling with new ears, and look deep within for all the ways we as United Methodist Women can affect change for good in the world, within and around us.

At the Epiphany Breakfast there was an in–gathering of Health Kits. Over 320 were collected – 22 from Central! Well done one and all! At District Annual we will be collecting items for Community House in Grand Rapids. They are especially looking for multi–cultural dolls and books. Spanish language books are especially needed in their new program. Please start thinking about items for Community House now. A more complete list of needs will be published in the future.


Mission Team – Thursday, February 5

We will meet at 6 p.m., in the First Floor Lounge. If you have any ideas you would like shared, please let one of the team members know or come sit in on the meeting. We are always looking for new ways to extend the love of God to those around us.


Lenten Lunch – Saturday, March 6

Our Lenten Lunch will be held in our Dining Room. Gathering will begin at 10:30 a.m. with our program at 11 a.m., followed by special music, lunch and our Call to Prayer and Self–Denial Offering. All are welcome. Tickets will be on sale in Fellowship Hall during Fellowship Hour on February 15, 22 and 29. They can also be purchased at February Circle Meetings or from a member of the Mission Team. If you need transportation, please contact a member of the Mission Team. Remember, the Dining Room is accessible via our elevator for those of you who may have trouble navigating stairs.


Spring Renewal – Friday and Saturday, April 2 and 3

More information will be coming in the District Newsletter, and it will be posted on the UMW Board in Fellowship Hall.


Social Action Day – Saturday, April 24

Legislative Day has been re–named Social Action Day. This year it is April 24 at Holt UMC. More information will be forthcoming on this event.


Other 2004 dates:

July 20–22 – School of Christian Mission
July 23 – School of Christian Mission Drive–In Day
September 15 – District Annual,Lake Odessa Central UMC
October 20 – Conference Annual Meeting – New Hope UMC
Church Women United
Carolyn Schuurmans


February 9 – Plymouth Congregational Church. Noon potluck salad lunch followed by a 1 p.m. program by Stephanie Bey portraying Sojourner Truth, “Ain't I a Woman?”

February 26 – Greek Orthodox Church. Inter–Faith Day. Tickets from Arline Roe, 371–7832.
Centralniters’ nite
Dottie Stark


You are invited to a Valentine’s Day potluck and game night Saturday, February 14, 6 p.m., in the church Dining Room. Please bring a dish to pass that serves 10–12, your own table service and a favorite table game. Beverages provided. Please sign reservation sheet in Fellowship Hall or call Dottie Stark, 482–7834.
ASH WEDNESDAY


The observance of Ash Wednesday, according to the Catholic Encyclopedia, dates from at least the eighth century A.D. The ancient custom was for the worshipers to approach the altar before the beginning of the Mass. A priest would dip his thumb into ashes made from the previous year’s Palm Sunday palms and make the sign of the cross on each person’s forehead.

Ash Wednesday is a time for repentance and the beginning of Lent. Ashes were used in ancient times, according to the Bible, to express penitence. Dusting themselves with ashes was the penitent’s way of expressing sorrow for sins and faults. An ancient example of one expressing his penitence is found in Job 42:3–5. Job says to God: “I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes.”

Ash Wednesday Service

February 25, 7 p.m.
Sewing Group Report 2003
Norma Hanson, Chairperson
Jeanne Fowler, Treasurer


Items made and donated:

Plymouth Congregational Church Children's closet                12 items
Sparrow/St. Lawrence/Dimondale Center                           133 items
Potter Park Outreach                                                         226 items
Total                                                                                  371 items

Income/Expenditures

Balance January 1, 2003                   $248.82
Income                                                   2.00
Expenditures                                         99.28
Balance December 31, 2003             $150.54

Sources of Income: Sale

Expenditures: thread, elastic, ribbing, tying cord, machine repairs

Membership: Six active members, two home sewers
Meetings in the tea room: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Average attendance: 4
Number of meetings in 2003: 39
Lansing District Leadership Day
February 21 – 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Holt United Methodist Church


Join our District Superintendent, Benton Heisler, and our worship leader, Barb Flory, for a time of fellowship and learning. Leadership training workshops are: Mission, Leadership, Making Disciples, Pastor–Parish Relations Committee, Youth Ministry, Cooperative Ministry, Conflict Management, Stewardship and Finance, Come, Now is the Time to Worship, and Peace and Justice.

We are gathering a team from Central so please contact Jamie Zimmer at 627–7384 by February 6 to sign on.
You made a difference at Fellowship Lunch
Beth Murley


One hundred festive–looking gift bags decorated by Margaret Woolcocks were given to the Fellowship Lunch guests at the Christmas meal on December 18. Thank you to all the folks who contributed items and to Santa‘s helpers who packed the bags. (These elves included Jean Fowler, Faye McCracken, Ann Mort, Mary Nesman, Don Pickard, Arline Roe, Marge Sleight, and Dick and Beth Murley).

Over the years that I have helped with this project, I sometimes wondered if our efforts were appreciated. This year all it took was a remark by one gentleman to assure me that this tradition should be continued. As he came to the table to get his sack, he said, “This will probably be my only Christmas gift. Thank you.” What he received was a pair of socks, a bar of soap, a washcloth, toothpaste, a razor and a candy bar.

God has given us so much. Let us be ready to give back each day of the year and then continue the Gift Bag Project in December 2004.
Donations for the body warm the heart too
Dottie Stark, Sewing Group


Voices of appreciation have been spoken by the recipients of the 48 Pairs of Mittens and Gloves, 7 Hat and Mitten Sets, 23 Hats and Headbands, 12 Scarves and 1 Pair of Leggings. These wonderful warm gifts were all delivered before Christmas to Potter Park UMC Clothing Outreach, Salvation Army Clothing Outreach, Allen Street Elementary School and Bingham Street Elementary School. Thanks to all for your donations.
NOTE: New Shalom Center phone #: 214–2976
Among Friends

Remember...

At press time

Pat Basgall – At home
Betty Corbishley – At home
Margaret Ebersole – Great Lakes Christian Home
William Gamble – Burcham Health Care
Ralph and Marie Gibbs – Grandhaven Manor
Jack Lansing – At home
Donald McLaughlin – Grandhaven Manor, # 308
Lulue Smith – Grandhaven Manor, # 351


Congratulations...

Peter and Estela Hudy on the birth of their third child, Macabee Timothy Estela–Hudy, January 17

Thank You

Dear Collage Fellowship, My Christmas really began when your group came to sing carols at my home. This is such a nice thing for you to do for us “shut–ins”. I am enjoying all the things in the “Goodie Bag”. Thanks, Georgia Mead

Estela, Benjamin, Jonatan, and Timoteo Hudy and I send a deep heartfelt thanks to everyone in the church family for the prayers, help, and visits that we have received during the past months and during the birth of baby Timoteo. Peter Hudy
The Hudy Habit – Hudy Sunday was last month. In all the excitement of having the Hudys with us on furlough, we hardly mentioned our continuing need to support them through our quarterly giving to United Methodist Missions. If you overlooked this opportunity, please enclose a donation in an envelope designated for the Hudy’s and drop it into the collection plate or mail it to the church office.
–Joi Tennant, CoChair, Missions

The Hudy’s are also looking for used computers (Pentium I or newer), printers, scanners, digital cameras, monitors, musical instruments and a TRACTOR to take down to the Rio Colorado School in Bolivia. Contact Dale Kirkby, or Peter Hudy for more information. (A motor scooter would be nice too. –Ed.)
A book review
A book review
The Moffats, by Eleanor Estes

Addie and Anne Forgrave


The Moffats are a family of crazy kids! There are four kids altogether who live with their mom. There’s Sylvie, who is the oldest and does not get in as much trouble as the others. Then there’s Joey, who is the oldest boy (their dad died). Janey is next; she knits and has a doll named Hildegarde. The youngest, Rufus, seems to get in the most trouble. One time at kindergarten recess, he and his friend, Hughie got in a train boxcar and took a little trip. They got back before school ended, though, and their teach didn‘t even notice!

Once the Moffat kids (except for Sylvie) accidentally took a Salvation Army horse and wagon. They gave it back, however, after using it. These are not bad kids; don’t get me wrong. Some of their trouble is just plain weird. Once Janey hid in a deli store breadbox for hours. You will need to read the book to find out why.

The book is a lot of fun. I would recommend it to anyone. – Addie

Reading this children’s book over the Christmas break brought back memories of when I first read it about....er...a lot of years ago. I enjoyed it then, and am enjoying it anew through re–reading it with my twelve–year–old, Addie. (That sentence is written in the present tense because we are still enmeshed in the book, but the deadline looms, so this is a review of a read–in–process).

While some of the situations are dated–an excursion with a horse and wagon, or a quarantine sign on the family‘s house because of scarlet fever–some things ring as true to today’s reader as they ever did: The first day of school can be looked forward to with anticipation or dread; siblings are an embarrassment one moment and a best friend the next; young children and clean Sunday clothes rarely co–exist; and what makes a home is the bond among those who live together as family, not the house they inhabit.

This is a good read–aloud–together book (Addie and I take turns reading chapters aloud). This is a heartwarming story by a Newberry award–winning author. It is a fine addition to Central‘s library. – Anne
ELDERBERRYS meet for a Valentines party Tuesday, February 10, at 10:30 a.m. We will have hearts and flowers and games and songs. Luncheon for a $2 donation. Please sign up in Fellowship Hall Sunday mornings. We will have a grand time together!
F.O.C.U.S.
1st Annual Believer’s Ball
An intergenerational event
February 14
7 – 11 p.m.


You are cordially invited to attend the 1st Annual Believer's Ball. A dozen other churches from the greater Lansing area have been invited to participate. This is an intergenerational event and we hope that Central will support us in big numbers. INVITE YOUR FRIENDS!

Tickets are $8/person or $15/couple and $4/person for Youth 15 and under. A portion of the proceeds will go to Habitat for Humanity, and the remainder will stay at Central. Tickets can be purchased Sunday mornings during Fellowship Hour or at the door.

Come Celebrate Being a Believer! There will be dancing, food, fun, and a lot of Fellowship!

Formal Attire is Requested!

If you have any questions feel free to e–mail us at CUMCFocus@aol.com or call Jamie – 485–0573, or Denise – 484–9109.
Christmas decorations come and go
Jamie Zimmer, Chair, Administrative Council


Many thanks to the thirty–six Central Collage members and other volunteers who so graciously worked to decorate the church for Christmas and who returned on January 10 to take everything down and store it away for next year.

Special appreciation goes to those who spent extra time pressing fabric, purchasing replacement decorations, and cleaning and sorting as things were put away for next year. Dennis and Denise Kelley lent their time and experience to help us work efficiently.

Several of our talented members are now refurbishing the almost thirty–year–old chrismon ornaments for the Sanctuary Christmas tree. A new tree skirt is being designed too. New candles will be purchased for the hurricane lamps and several people have expressed a desire to obtain different candle holders for the Christmas Eve service to eliminate the candle wax drippings on our pews and carpets.

Blessings and great gratitude to all of you!
Building use/rental
Susan Gretenberger, Chair, Board of Trustees


Are you interested in using Central’s facilities for something other than a church activity? Read on:

As part of our efforts to maintain Central’s facilities, fees for the use of the buildings are regularly reviewed. The fees are set to recoup the costs associated with scheduling, opening and set up and cleanup of the rooms used; while facilitating the use of the buildings that is consistent with the ministry of the church.

Sometimes, church members or friends wish to use the building for personal activities such as a birthday party or reception. Any time an activity is held at a time that the church would not otherwise be open, there is a cost for attendants to monitor the building and keep it open. If you need help with set–up or clean–up, there is also a cost for building staff since much of the building staff’s time is spent on other duties and they are very busy doing set–up for regular church activities.

In an effort to be fair while still keeping the church available for use, the trustees suggest the following for members who wish to use the facilities:

1. Always schedule the rooms you need with Pat Basgall.

2. Members are encouraged to do as much of their own set–up and clean–up as they can. (No, this is not a request for Arlene Roe and Betty Corbishley to put the tables away when they are done.)

3. If you need help with set–up or clean–up, a donation of $10 per hour for each staff person is suggested.

4. If the building is being opened just for you, a donation of $10 per hour for a building attendant is also suggested.

Please understand this policy is in no way intended to prevent church members from using the church. Please talk to Pat Basgall if you would like to use the building and have concerns about the donations.
Celebrate Central!

Coming Saturday, April 24, 5 – 8 p.m. and Sunday Morning, April 25

a Renewal Initiative event
STOP! DROP! AND SERVE GOD!

Wesley Woods will be on FIRE!

Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to serve at Wesley Woods United Methodist Camp as a volunteer staff member.

You will work with Middle Schoolers from the Lansing and Albion Districts.

Your presence will be required at three Saturday staff training sessions and one week of camp – August 1 – 7, 2004.

This year's theme is “FAITH ON FIRE!”

Each summer, 160 youth come to this camp and a majority of them find or develop their relationship with Christ.

“According to the International Bulletin of Ministry Research, 86% of all Christians make their commitments of faith before the age of 15.”

Please pray about this amazing opportunity to serve God and make a difference in the lives of HIS children.

Contact me if you would like to learn more about this camp or ways you can help.

(517) 485–0573 or e–mail: FaithOnFire2004@aol.com
Dean on Fire, Jamie Tipton
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