March, 1999
Keeping Members and Friends Informed
Promoting Fellowship
Contributing to Spiritual Growth
Central's Partners for Preservation to establish new funding
program
Note: The following is a planned public press release outlining a new funding
program for the caring of Central's declining building structure. Look for
additional and more specific information in the April Journal.
"May Day will be a historic day at Central United Methodist Church. May 1,
has been selected to kick off an effort to maintain and preserve one of Lansing's
oldest downtown churches. Partners for Preservation will host a May Day noon
luncheon to inform the congregation and community.
In an effort to prevent the deterioration of the buildings that have been
home to the Methodist congregation since 1889, trustees of the church established
a fund for the specific purpose of directing attention to the physical repair
of the church and the adjoining Temple House constructed in 1923. Chair of
the Partners for Preservation effort, David Mills noted that 'while the trustees
currently manage numerous endowment funds, the restriction attached to such
gifts often prevent the money being used to address the stress on the
infrastructure of the church.'
The Mission of Partners for Preservation is to maintain and preserve the
structural integrity of Central United Methodist Church and Temple House
for the purpose of providing a location for religious, cultural, recreational,
and community service to the City of Lansing.
Situated across from the State Capitol Building the church exhibits great
historical significance in the growth of early downtown Lansing. Like the
capitol building, the original church structure was design by E. E. Meyers.
The modified Romanesque structure was placed on the National Register of
Historic Places in 1983. Built from Ionia sandstone outside, the interior
woodwork was fashioned from red oak. The original stained glass windows in
the sanctuary of the church still reflect caring memorials to loved ones
of the congregation's early history. Ten years ago the sanctuary was restored
and a 3,168 pipe Jaeckel organ was installed.
Activities on May 1st will include a picnic lunch served to prospective Partners
for Preservation membership. The program will include an explanation of how
the endowment program will be funded. Wayne Bennett, of the United Methodist
Church Conference, Financial Services, will explain various endowment
opportunities available to the congregation.
Mills indicated that while the campaign will draw heavily from the church's
membership, the effort will also seek monies available for historical
preservation. He states, 'The structure has a great heritage and deserves
to be respected and preserved for its historical significance as well as
its function as a place of worship."
PASTOR'S PEN
I was looking through my "neat stuff" file the other day and came across
this one, called "The Blessings in 'No.'" I hope you will enjoy it.
I asked God to take away my pride.
God said "No," it is not for me to take away, but for you to give up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said "No," her spirit is whole, her body is only temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said "No," patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn't granted,
it is earned.
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said "No," I give you blessings, happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said "No," suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you
closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said "No," You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you
fruitful.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said "No," I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as he loves me.
God said Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.
As we go through Lent and look toward EASTER, let us understand that God
doesn't say "NO" all the time - the "No's" are tough love for our own good.
But on that Easter morning about 2000 years ago, God said one giant "Yes!"
God said YES to life in the resurrection of Christ, saying NO to the deathly
powers of the world. As faithful disciples, let us live in God's YES !
John
Notes and Reminders
Keeping our church clean
There are at least two reasons that help is needed to try to keep our church
clean. 1) Wally Seyler, our custodian/maintenance person for the past several
years, has retired because of the recurrence of the cancer in his brain.
2) The anticipated income for this year does not cover all of the anticipated
expenses.
While the church will be hiring a new custodian, this person will need additional
help to do the thorough cleaning the building needs with all the activities
that go on in the building. Rather than paying for the additional cleaning
needed, it is hoped that there are enough members willing to volunteer to
do this work.
Schedules are being set up to have a team of at least five people come in
each week on Friday or Saturday for about four hours to get the church cleaned
for Sunday. Each team would be asked to work only once every two months.
To do this, we need nine teams totaling a minimum of 45 volunteers. As of
February 22nd, we need to sign up five more members.
As part of our pledge of service to the church and for God, please join this
group by calling the church office (485-9477) so that we can find a spot
for you on the work schedule.
Giant Print Bible available
A giant print 1990 edition of The Holy Bible, printed by Zondervan Corporation
containing both the old and the new testaments, made of India paper, is available
for the asking. The book is 7x9 ½ x 1 1/2" in black simulated leather.
The request for this Bible would be made by an individual of impaired vision
who intends to read it.
The Bible contains a preface, footnotes, study helps, and a dictionary
concordance, plus maps. A member of Central is offering this Bible to someone
who might make good use of it. The present owner can no longer read the printed
text and generously wants to give it to a deserving person. Please contact
Rev. Frank Anderson at the church (485-9477) or at his home (323-6968).
Opportunity for Service
Calling men and women to assist the church office staff by covering the reception
desk during the say, Monday through Friday. We will work around your schedule.
Our program to date has been to volunteer from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. or
12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Four (4) people are needed immediately. Training sessions
will be provided at your convenience. Please contact Pat Basgall at the church
office for more information.
GLADE Workshop
There will be another GLADE workshop on March 18th at 6:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
at Trinity AME Church on Holmes Road. This workshop will be along the lines
of the one held in November at St. Teresa Catholic Church that 5 of our members
attended. All are invited to attend, whether or not you attended the workshop
in November.
Building Buzzzzzzzzz
By Ruthann Jaquette, Business and Building Manager
Any of you who are lucky enough to find a space in the back parking lot may
have noticed that we are having work done on the large stained glass window
facing the parking lot. Years of sun, wind, snow and ice had taken their
toll on the wood casings of the window.
The effects of the weather had been multiplied by the plexiglass that had
been installed over the windows allowing moisture to be trapped between the
plexiglass-glass and the wood casings. Most of the wood casings had rotted
endangering the stained glass units themselves.
Wilson Restoration, a company from Mason, who specializes in restoration
construction repaired or replaced the damaged wood casings, cleaned the windows
and installed plate glass over the top of the window units--but not over
the frames themselves. In this way, the windows will be protected, but the
frames will not be subjected to the same conditions that exacerbate the
deterioration of the wood.
As soon as the weather breaks, restoration of the bell tower will begin.
Borner Restoration of Lansing will be doing these repairs. The view from
the street doesn't really tell the entire story. As with the windows, years
of Mother Nature freezing and thawing has destroyed portions of the interior
brick supporting the sandstone block.
Stay tuned to future issues for the latest and greatest projects that the
Trustees are undertaking in the restoration and maintenance of our Grand
'Ol Gal!
With Sympathy
To the family and friends of Richard Johnson, who died on February 17, 1999
To the family and friends of Ken Browand, who died on February 20,1999.
Fellowship Opportunities
Central Niters
Central Niters invite other Central members to join them in the church dining
room on Saturday, March 20th at 7 p.m. for a dessert festival (bring one
to share, table service provided) and a special program.
Featured will be: Coca-cola, Hershey's kisses, Quaker oats, and Jiffy mix
- a show-and-tell program on the origins of common household products.
Virginia Ederer, the presenter at 8 p.m., is a noted local supporter and
activist of the Meridian Historical Village, and a Children's librarian with
a special interest in Michigan products and commerce. Join us for an entertaining
and delicious evening.
Ken and Jo Harvey and John and Penny Zago will be our hosts.
Central Young Adults
Central's Young Adults will meet March 13 at 7 p.m. for dinner at Blue Coyote.
Dessert thereafter will be at the home of Dennis & Denise Kelley. For
reservations and further information, call Dennis or Denise Kelley at
484-9109.
Red Roses to ...
All those who served as Worship Service Liturgist in 1998.
Rev. Mary Albery, Rev. Paul Albery, Shirley Ambrose, Rev. Frank Anderson,
Nona Bartley, David Bass, Roxy Bass, Patricia Bell, Allen Belyea, Mary Boudreau,
Gaile Marie Bradley, Fred Brazee, Ruth Brazee, Joyce Brendahl, Kelly Brendahl,
Fred Colwell, Jewell Cook, K. L. Cool, Vickie Cool, Michael Cooper, Betty
Corbishley, Kenneth Harvey, C. Jon Holmes, Peter Hudy, Dennis Kelley, Codee
Kirkby, Dale Kirkby, Mary Ellen Maas, David Mills, James Mort, Patricia Mort,
Mary Nesman, Nancy O'Shea, James Parker, Jane Roby, Tim Roby, Chuck Sargent,
Justin Sleight, Dorothy Stark, Karen Stefl, Kayla Tipton, Jill Whiteman,
Bob Wangen, Pat Wangen, Margaret Wallin, and Bruce Worthington.
NEWS NOTES
By B. Caryn Welter, Music Director
The next few months promise exciting musical events here at Central. It's
our fond hope that you will be present for all of them, as they enhance worship
and enrich the personal and spiritual development of our participants.
On Saturday, March 20, the Central Ringers will be involved all day in the
Lansing Area Ministry of Bells workshop at Waverly High School. This rigorous
and highly motivating opportunity will serve our folks well. A culminating
concert is open to the public and begins at 4:30 p.m. in the gym. Won't you
join us?
Palm Sunday (March 28) brings the majesty of processional music that incorporates
the Chancel Choir, Children's Choir, Wesley Choristers, Central Bell Ringers,
and organ in a lovely arrangement of "Come Forth, O Choirs." Other children
of the church will follow, waving the traditional palm branches. One of the
anthems on that day will once again include all the musical groups.
A joyous celebration of Easter (April 4) will be underscored by the presence
of a brass quintet, tympanist and cymbals player, as special settings of
Easter hymns are sung by the Chancel Choir. The Central Ringers, too, will
participate in the service. Preparations for this festive day are already
in the workings.
April 25 brings a cantata by the Chancel Choir, during the worship hour.
Vaughn Williams' "Five Mystical Songs" features a brilliant baritone and
an orchestral group. John Rutter's "Te Deum" serves as a meaningful Response
to the Word. Rutter's beautiful setting of "Be Thou My Vision" will be well
placed as a benediction response.
We are in hopes that a new Chorale can speak to mothers everywhere in our
sanctuary on Mothers' Day, May 9. Similarly, a February 7 meeting of the
Youth Council extracted promises from nine young people that may allow a
Youth Musical Group to sing for this year's Graduation Sunday on June 13.
Thanks, folks, to all those whose many music program contributions help to
make Central an interesting and exciting place to worship.
Thank You
To our Church Family,
A big thank you to our "Church Family" for thoughtfully providing a cake
in our honor for the coffee hour on January 3rd. It was a pleasant surprise.
Bob and Jeanne Fowler
To my Central Church Family,
I would like to express my heart-felt gratitude to all of you whom for the
past seven years have given me friendship. I found a home here at Central.
You have shown me trust and extended support that has touched me deeply.
My heart will be with you always. Wally Seyler
To Central Family,
Thank you for your thoughtfulness. Your kindness meant more than you'd ever
guess. Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness. Martha Haskins
West Michigan Conference Missionaries now home from field
assignments
By Rev. Francis Anderson, Ret.
Phillip and Kathleen Beal are retired from serving 10 years and 7 months
in Singapore and in Korea. They live at 619 Appletree Drive, Holland, MI
49423.
Rosemary and William Bauer are retired from serving more than 40 years in
India. They reside at 2951 Quincy Lane, Lansing, MI 48910.
Larry and Laura Hills face their final year as UMC missionaries in Africa;
retirement for them is scheduled at the end of 1999. Their ministries have
been most unique and hazardous. More news is available on this Hills.
Special Worship Service Sunday, March 7th, 1999
All Older Adults are invited to a Special Worship Service to celebrate The
International Year of the Older Adult on Sunday, March 7th at 9:30 a.m. in
the Sanctuary.
Education and Worship Opportunities
Denise Fabbri, Program Director
Our "Lenten Conversations" theme continues through March
"Whole People of God" Joi Tennant; Centennial Room
New Member Class Rev Boley; Room 23
Lenten Study "Wilderness Wanderings"
Nancy O'Shea and Lori Randall
First Floor Lounge This is a study on how to "unmask" our packaging , set
priorities straight, and to let God lead for a simpler, happier life.
Courtship After Marriage
Room 27 Dale and Carolyn Kirkby
This is a twelve week study group developed by Zig Zigglar designed to enhance
relationships. Each of the sessions is designed to reflect on an important
aspect of a marriage, from building commitment, having humor, listening and
respecting differences to positive thinking and appreciation. Each week is
a separate lesson which includes listening to an audio cassette and discussion
on the various topics.
Lenten Study of Homosexuality
Rev. John Boley; Rev. Les Longden; Rev. Keith Pohl
Meager meal of soup & bread
Meal at 6 p.m. Study from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The United Methodist church as a body is currently viewing the topic of
homosexuality. As Christians, it is also a practice during Lent to reflect
on various aspects of our own lives.
To seek understanding, Rev. Boley began a study on this important and relevant
topic as a Lenten Series. All interested persons are invited to share a meager
meal and attend this Sunday evening class. Please make reservations through
the church office. Child care is provided.
Guest speakers and lesson topics include:
March 7 The Biblical passages relating to homosexuality, The Wesleyan
Quadrilateral.
March 14 What can be known about homosexuality; What the church can and cannot
responsibly teach.
March 21 Exercise in Christian Unity - Compatibilists and Incompatibilists.
Facilitated by Rev. Les Longden of Trinity UMC.
March 28 Implications for life and ministry in the church.
Scholarship Forms Available
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 19, 1999.
Camping Brochures
Camping brochures are now available at the Education Director's Office.
Camperships will be available again this year. The amount per camper will
be determined at a later time.
If you wish to apply for a campership, fill out your camping application
and pay your deposit to hold your child's spot. Then, turn in a copy of the
application to Denise Fabbri. She will pay the Conference directly.
Confirmation Class This Fall
Rev. Boley will lead a Confirmation class during the month of November. This
four-week Saturday class will combine with a handful of other Lansing United
Methodist churches, and it will include some field experiences. Sixth graders
and above are eligible to attend this year's class. Confirmation will be
celebrated in December. Any questions, please see Denise Fabbri.
New Graduation Sunday Date
Due to the Conference's Ordination Celebration on the day we had set aside,
Graduation Sunday has been changed to June 13, 1999. Families effected by
this should make note of this change.
The Year of the Older Persons
The year 1999 has been name The International Year of the Older Persons by
the United Nations General Assembly. Rev. Frank Anderson will lead a worship
service in honor of older persons on March 7. A continued celebration is
being planned for the remainder of the year. Please watch for various activities
and speakers over the coming months.
Dates to Remember
March 17th, Commissions and Administrative Council
Holy Week Events, Check with Rev. John Boley
April 4th, Sunrise Easter Service at 7 a.m. in the Chapel
April 12th, Office on Aging Speaker and Luncheon Church dining room, 10:30
a.m.
April 19th, Scholarship Deadline
Holy Week Schedule
Holy Week Services; Mon. - Thurs. Noon in Mary Sabina Chapel.
(Sponsored by the Inner City Pastor's Alliance)
Maundy Thursday Service - 7:00 p.m. at Central
Good Friday Service - 12:00 Noon to 3:00 p.m., First Baptist Church.
(Sponsored by the Inner City Pastor's Alliance)
United Methodist Women
Pat Mort, President
Lenten Brunch
To mark your Lenten Journey, the place to be March 6th at noon is Central's
Lenten Brunch. We will gather in Fellowship Hall for a wonderful salad lunch
followed by a program on Oberannergau by Marge Sleight and Arline Roe.
We will also receive our Call to Prayer and Self-Denial offering. Tickets
are $3 and are available by contacting Anne or Pat Mort at 484-2356 or in
Fellowship Hall Sunday, February 28th.
Upcoming District and Conference Dates
April 16-17
Spiritual Growth Retreat; "Prayer Journey" Joining Lansing and Albion Districts
at Wesley Woods Camp, Dowling, MI Registration deadline is April 8th.
July 15-18
School of Christian Mission; "God's Timeless Word" Calvin College Fine Arts
Center, at Grand Rapids, MI Registration deadline is June 30th.
September 16th, 3-8 p.m. Lansing District Annual at Grand Ledge U.M. Church
October 5th, 2-8 p.m Mission Enrichment at Mason U.M. Church
October 23rd, Conference Annual at Reed City U.M. Church
The History Corner - Reminises from Central's past
Contributed by Central's Committee on Church History
On April 19, 1978, Sue Stark was the speaker at the church potluck. She was
attending the University of Michigan, and had been selected by Inter-Varsity
Christian Fellowship to go to the Philippines to engage in missionary work.
We are proud of Sue and her bubbling enthusiasm as a rowing and involved
Christian.
Sentence Sermon: The cause of Christ has never yet been advanced by the
church member who drags his feet.
Easter Lily Order Time
We will again have our Annual Floral Display for Easter Sunday. If you are
interested in buying a lily plant, fill out the adjacent form and send it
along with your check (please designate: Easter Lily Plant) to the Church
office or place it in the Sunday Offering. You may honor or memorialize a
loved one in this manner. The cost per plant is $7. Final orders must be
in by noon on Monday, March 29th. You may pick up your plant following Easter
Sunday Worship Service. Any Plants not picked up after the Easter Sunday
Service will be taken to Central's Homebound Members.
Name: ____________________________________________________________
Please reserve ____ plants. The designation should read:
In MEMORY of - OR - in HONOR OF (please CIRCLE ONE)
Please print message below!
Given by:
Journal Editor is Jim Hane
(517) 669-3306 / jim338@msn.com
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