Central
Journal . . . electronic edition
May,
2002
Keeping Members and Friends Informed
Promoting
Fellowship
Contributing
to Spiritual Growth
Forgive Us Our Debts
Joi Tennant
We went to an interesting little movie in February of 2001; Chocolat, which
was nominated for 3 Academy Awards, including Best Picture. There are several
discussion topics that could arise from this story. It could certainly be
considered an attack on established religion and Christianity (maybe) or
"the church" (probably). But I suppose the real message came through particularly
clear to me because I had been at the time thinking often on the phrase in
the Lord's Prayer, "Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors."
I have often considered the meanings of the two words, "trespasses" and "debts",
and how the use of one or the other changes the way we interpret the Lord's
Prayer. In Sunday school one morning last year Betty Corbishley shared how
she had come to this new realization that Jesus had truly intended the word
"debt" (rather than "trespasses") because he so often refers to the concept
of debts in various parables. It is a theme that Jesus repeatedly uses to
help his listeners grasp an understanding of their relationship to God.
Before she brought this to our attention, I had, myself, had a new picture
of what these debts actually are for which we are asking God's forgiveness.
I had been thinking about debts in God's eyes, as all those countless ways
we receive God's numerous blessings and generosity, and yet how rarely we
turn right around and share the bounty of our life, what we have received,
with everyone we encounter throughout the day. The result is we "store up
treasures on earth" rather than in heaven.
As Christians we are people who have been given the truth and love of God.
We have seen, through Jesus, who He is and what He is like. Consequently,
whenever we are neglectful of our opportunities to be salt and light in this
world, we become debtors to God who so freely gives that we might also
give.
When we pray the Lord's Prayer phrase, "Forgive us our debts as we forgive
our debtors," we ask Him to forgive us for selfishly focusing on ourselves
in stead of being the channel for his living water to flow to others. And
the other side of that phrase is our asking Him to help us forgive the countless
instances we face in our daily lives, when people we encounter or live with
selfishly take instead of give, when they let us down, when they withhold
the salt and light we need at a given moment to get us through the day.
In the movie, Chocolat, the local church had become so focused on their duty
to be disciplined and to resist perceived evil that they had completely shut
down as God's messengers of love and good will, forgiveness and acceptance.
When we pray the Lord's Prayer and meditate on each phrase, I believe Jesus
is calling us to pay close attention to the attitudes and actions that have
stopped the flow of God's love through our lives. These are the debts that
grieve the heart of God.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no
law." Galatians 5: 22, 23
Pastor's Pen
What We Bring to Church
Ever since Rev. John Ellinger, our District Superintendent, had a frank
discussion with us at our Church Conference last October about the preparation
we go through when we come to church on Sunday, I have been pondering how
we best achieve the delicate balance between the activity of the worship
leaders and the activity of the people in the pews, and the attitudes of
both.
Here is a statement by Rev. Ted Akers that captures the essence of this
discussion and applies to all of us; clergy, musicians, worship leaders and
the people in the pews:
When you see people coming into the sanctuary, what do you think about? I
must confess that the dominant thought in my mind has to do with what they
are bringing with them. How much faith, love, joy, sorrow, disappointment,
frustration, depression, anxiety, peace and hope do you bring to church with
you; how much sin and how much grace; how much outreach and how much
self-centeredness; how much thanksgiving and how much greed?
What you bring into a service of worship will determine to a very large extent
what you take following the service. An alert, expectant mind and heart make
possible a new level of understanding and commitment. An open, generous spirit
clears the way for one to feel included and related to acts of God and his
people who bind up the wounds of the human family. An extravagant amount
of faith enables one to be granted the divine guidance to comprehend at least
in small measure what the kingdom of God is intended to be on earth. A questing
spirit very often leads one to know spiritual fulfillment. The positive spirit
in worship saves one from becoming a critical spectator who seldom recognizes
the mighty acts of God when they are happening all around.
Worship is not to be a mere performance by a few, but an experience of divine
presence and thought known to all who participate. There is meaning in private
worship and devotional disciplines, but the depth of significance is largely
determined by values shared in corporate worship experiences. What you bring
with you is of tremendous importance in both public and private worship.
Bring the best things with you when you come to church. If you don't have
them yet, come with your sins and all needs. Hopefully each of us will share
the faith, love, and hope that will help all of us to go from the worship
experience refreshed and renewed because we have left our cares and our sins
with him who abundantly forgives and empowers us."
Well said, and may God help us all with this Challenge.
Rev. John Boley
Education
Julie Cooper, Chair, Education Commission
Children's Craft Sale May 5 to benefit Afghan children
JoAnn Klein
The 3rd - 5th grade Sunday School class is holding a CRAFT SALE on Sunday,
May 5 during coffee hour in Fellowship Hall. Funds raised will be donated
to the children of Afghanistan.
These young people are very excited about this project and have worked hard
all year making a variety of crafts that will make lovely Mother's Day gifts.
Some of the items for sale include candle holders, wooden crosses, picture
frames, bookmarks, magnets, "love" fortune cookies, grass heads, and flower
pots. These talented artists will also have a face painting booth.
Get the buzzz onVBS
If you saw, heard or observed any part of Vacation Bible School last year
(the Polar Ice Caps, the Polar Ice Palace, Yukon Jacks Trading Post/Yogurt
Shop/Bowling Alley, or the sweet excited faces of about 60 kids), you'll
want to participate in VBS this year.
BUG SAFARI – Where kids catch the BUZZ about Jesus' Love.
Five days of Fun! Food! Water Games ! Fun! and Jesus' Love. Don't wait. Just
tell us how and where and when you would like to get in on all of this. Talk
to Julie Cooper at 651-2302 or e-mail her at, ccoopermjake@aol.com.
VBS is June 24-28, Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
It's time to think about church camp!
Please see the display and brochure in Fellowship Hall. Our kids are already
talking about it. And we are blessed in the West Michigan Conference with
such beautiful facilities.
Some of you have mentioned that you would like to contribute to the expense
of church camp. Typically, we have given camperships of $100 a piece to every
camper from CUMC. That leaves a balance of a little over $100 for parents
to pay per camper.
Due to financial constraints/budget cuts we have had to eliminate part of
the funding for campers, as well as for VBS. If either of these programs
appeal to your heart, please talk to Julie Cooper.
NOTE...Building security system active
David Schuurmans, Board of Trustees
The electronic security system in the church building is now in operation.
It will be turned on when the building is closed. If you wish to enter the
building at special times, contact the church office (485-9477) ahead of
time.
Good medicine; good marriage
Joi Tennant
Don't you sometimes wonder how we can have peace in the Middle East when
we can barely figure out how to keep peace in our home? Even the best of
marriages can benefit from a Marriage Encounter United Methodist Weekend.
All you need is a commitment to each other and a willingness to work toward
a stronger and more meaningful future together.
Marriage Encounter is a positive personal experience that offers a technique
of loving communication that you can use for the rest of your life. It's
an opportunity for couples to look deeply into their own relationship in
an honest face-to-face, heart-to-heart encounter.
Here's a quote from a participant:
"I went because she wanted to go. I stayed because it wasn't like anything
I had feared. It was more exciting than any sporting event I can remember.
It was more romantic than any vacation we've had. I learned more really important
things than in any class I've taken. On the weekend my wife listened to
me…she showed that she really cared about me. I cannot recommend a Marriage
Encounter Weekend strongly enough."
Three dates will be coming up in the fall: September 27-29 in Whitehall,
October 4-6 in Houghton, November 1-3 in Midland.
To find out more about Marriage Encounter or to make reservations contact:
Chuck and Dalice Yost
26640 Dover
Redford, MI 48239
(313) 937-1051
e-mail: CYOST@twmi.rr.com
Music Notes!
Caryn Welter, Music Direcor
Sunday, May 5
The Spirit Singers will present Benjamin Harlan's Risen This Day. Pastor
John Boley will introduce the meaningful cantata through a brief perspective
on the events of Easter week, beginning with Palm Sunday.
Intergenerational participants will then demonstrate through brief vignettes
the music that depicts events of that week. Our celebration of the Sacrament
of Holy Communion will take on a special look.
If you'd like to be part of this special venture, please leave your name
and telephone number on extension 35 at the church.
Sunday May 12
On Mothers' Day, the Children's Choir and Wesley Choristers will present
a wonderfully varied tribute to families. A medley of rich, diverse, appropriate
music will touch the heart of everyone who's in worship that day. This is
a day you'll certainly want to attend our Sunday morning service, with an
eye to supporting and encouraging these young people and their marvelous
enthusiasm. We can all learn from observing their joyful music-making and
hearing the sincerity in their messages.
Sunday, May 19
You may remember Pentecost for all it represents. If you're a child, you
may think of it as the day we all wear red. In order to bring together the
meaning of Pentecost and its symbols, the two younger choral groups will
bring a special creative movement endeavor to the sanctuary for Pentecost.
May its representation deeply enrich the day for you and the other
worshippers.
Kudos to all music personnel . . .
As the program year continues to feature some of our groups' best efforts,
this comes to thank all members of the Children's Choir, Wesley Choristers,
Central Bell Ringers, Spirit Singers, and Chancel Choir for the meaningful
and ongoing contribution you make to the worship experience of Central's
congregation. Without your dedication, loyalty, enthusiasm, talent, and hard
work, a rich and varied worship experience would be impossible. You are very
much appreciated.
Summer music, anyone?
Perhaps you've contributed your talent to the summer program in past years.
If so, we'd like you to consider doing it again this year. If you've not
participated in the past, this is a good year to give it a try. Just contact
Bruce Goodrich who'll be coordinating the program this summer.
Easter season music made even more special . . .
On Palm Sunday, Ron Gibbs' euphonium rendition of "The Palms" touched the
heart of everyone who grew up with that in his or her repertoire. What a
glorious sound! On Easter Sunday, Meg and Liz Ebersole capably rounded out
the brass ensemble by coming into rehearsal and, in their understated and
unassuming demeanor, demonstrating their talent and professionalism. Then,
on April 7, Simon and Seth Holoweiko complemented the season with music by
Bartok and Bach. How many of us could have done what they did, and at their
ages? How blessed we are to have such remarkable talent in our midst.
As a point of information,
did you know that the piece Liz Ebersole played on April 7 was from a concerto
her first trombone teacher played at his MSU senior recital? That's pretty
incredible and so, too, is she. What a talent!
Book Review
Betty Corbishley
Loud Lips Lucy
Loud Lips Lucy, by Tolya Thompson, is a story in rhyme, of a loudmouth little
girl who lost her voice–temporarily. She searched for her voice in bizarre
places, and, in the process, learned to listen. It is illustrated with great
charm by Juan Perez.
Inscribed by the author is: "Dear Central United Methodist Church Library:
Read and Grow - Children who can read have the power to succeed."
This book and Amazing Graces, Prayers and Poems for Children, complied by
June Catner, have been donated by Frances Jones for the children's shelves
in our library.
This will interest pre-schoolers through early readers.
UnitedMethodist Women
Pat Mort, President
The sun just came out. How wonderful! The buds on the trees are really starting
to pop, the birds are turning bright colors, the groundhog is lumbering around
looking for a treat and the bunny, gray squirrels, chipmunks and fox squirrel
are nibbling under the bird feeder. This truly is the time of the "singing
of birds"! I never cease to be amazed by the changing of the seasons. Each
has a fullness all its own. Let us always remember to thank the Giver for
this great gift we're a part of.
Legislative Day was a resounding success!
Thank you:
— to all who helped set up the dining room for lunch; — to those
who did the shopping; — to those who helped prepare the food with love;
— to those who helped serve with grace; — to those who helped with
the coffee during registration; — to those who helped direct our guests;
— to our greeters who made everyone feel welcome; — to Larry for
all his extra efforts – even washing the dishes for the Executive Committee
who had dinner at Central Tuesday night; — to John Boley for his
graciousness; — to those who did the clean up; — to those who offered
behind-the-scenes encouragement and support.
Everyone said how much they enjoyed coming to Central. We have made a reputation
for ourselves for our hospitality and willingness to serve God through others.
We have a right to be proud of that reputation but we should never rest on
it. There is much we can do – there is much we do. Thank God for the
opportunity to serve and the willingness of many.
Check the UMW Board
The Cookie Dough Order Forms Have Arrived!
There are forms on the UMW BOARD in Fellowship Hall. We also have popcorn
for sale this year – which the Mission Team sampled at our April meeting.
It is fabulous. There's Chicago – cheese and carmel corn mix; a chocolate
carmel corn that is almost too good to be true and carmel corn. The dough
and popcorn tubs are all $7 each. If you can pay when you order, it will
help alleviate some of the hassle when the order comes in. Checks should
be made payable to Central UMW and can be turned in to Mary Bowers or your
Circle treasurer.
If you can help us sell in your neighborhood or work site, There are extra
forms located in a "Pocket" on the UMW BOARD. Delivery is in May.
One of the most important things we can do as God's
people is try to influence those in power in the name of the powerless. To
do that effectively we need to be informed. Read the newspaper; watch the
news; read magazine articles. Some web sites you may find useful include:
Human Rights Watch:
www.hrw.org
US Committee on Refugees:
www.refugee.org
UMW: http://gbgm-umc.org/ WOMENS DIVISION
United Methodist Church:
http://umc.org/
General Board of Global Ministries:
http://gbgm-umc.org
Write your legislative officials: The President, Secretary of State, your
Congresspersons, the United Nations Secretary General. All need to know where
we stand – no matter where it is. Every fax, phone call, letter, e-mail
and postcard are counted. Helpful addresses include:
Kofi Annan
Secretary General
United Nations
Office of the Secretary General
1 United Nations Plaza
New York NY 10017
Fax: 212-963-4879
George W. Bush
President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington DC 20500
Fax: 202-456-2461
Phone: 202-456-1414
Colin L. Powell
Secretary of State
Washington DC 20520
Fax: 202-261-8577
e-mail: Secreatry@state.gov
Capitol Switchboard – 202-224-3121
US House of Representatives
Washington DC 20515
US Senate
Washington DC 20510
It doesn't take a lot of time to make a difference in the lives of others
– all it takes is commitment, compassion and willingness.
Pick an issue you're passionate about (children and violence; foster children;
nuclear waste; drilling in the Arctic; poverty; violence against women;
unemployment benefits; cost of prescription drugs for seniors; justice issues;
the Middle East; Afghani women and children; elder abuse; substandard housing;
drug and/or alcohol abuse; gambling – just to name a few).
Educate yourself. Take a stand. Pray. Contact the "powers that be" in whatever
circumstances you choose. Be someone who not only talks the talk but walks
the walk.
The Red Tent has been suggested as the first book for our new Book Discussion
Group. If you are interested in joining us, please sign up on the UMW Board
in Fellowship Hall. Please note a time that works best for you. If you have
suggestions for other books, please write them down. There's no reason we
can't have more than one discussion group going at a time.
RADA
We have some new RADA cutlery items. If you are interested in seeing them,
please contact our "Cutlery Queen", Arline Roe!
Tops, tabs, and points
We are still collecting pull tops, Campbell Soup labels and Bill Knapp's
Community Points. These can be put in the box on top of the book drop just
outside the Library.
CHURCH WOMEN UNITED
Celebrates
MAY FRIENDSHIP DAY
Friday, May 3 at Christ UMC
517 W. Jolly Road
Park in the lower lot behind the church
9 a.m. Board Meeting
10:30 a.m. Bible Study
12 noon Potluck Salad Lunch
1 p.m. Program: "Sharing our Stories, Healing our Hearts, Celebrating God's
Love"
Call Carolyn Schuurmans, 321-0569, if child care is needed.
Mission study on Indochina underway
Francis Anderson
After a preliminary session on Sunday April 7, the study on Vietnam, Cambodia,
and Laos got off to a good start with twelve in attendance. More persons
are welcome. Here are some of the expectations of this exciting class:
We hope to hear the story of two sisters of Lansing: Kim Ngo and Chau Ngo.
Having emigrated to the USA over 20 years ago, they have a story of a miraculous
escape from Vietnam.
On a Sunday to be determined, the class will visit the 4 p.m. Vietnamese
worship service at Potter Park UMC. And, we hope to visit the new Vietnam
War Memorial near the new Justice Building off of Martin Luther King Jr.
Blvd. Also, one of our own church members will share how her family sponsored
two families from Laos and Vietnam.
Join us any Sunday through May 19 in the second floor Lounge. You are welcome
anytime.
Elderberrys moving up
Francis Anderson
The group of older adults known as E-L-D-E-R-B-E-R-R-Y-S finds that being
together once a month is a blessing. Half of the problem in ministry is getting
folks together where they can talk and visit in a natural way. Elderberrys
offers just that. We will have a May meeting before adjourning for the
summer.
The return of Rev. Pegg Ainslie helped us understand the various aspects
of ministry today. In our April session, she explained how Protective Services
for Children assists persons who have a disability and yet want to be treated
like anyone else.
At the writing of this column, we anticipate hearing about problems relating
to "Nature and Environment" on Tuesday, May 14, at 10:30 a.m. There is also
thought about a brief field trip since nice weather is now here. Keep Elderberrys
in mind when it comes to Older Adult Ministries in Central UMC.
"Run with Determination"
June 8
Bob Wangen, Chair, Finance Committee
The Second Annual "Run With Determination" will be held Saturday, June 8
at 9 a.m. Proceeds from this annual 5-kilometer run/walk will help support
the outreach activities of Central Church, such as our Food Bank, Thursday
Fellowship Luncheon, Shalom Center for Peace & Justice, Sunday Radio
Broadcast and missionary work in Bolivia and Arizona.
This is a fun activity for individuals and families. Non-competitive walkers
are also invited to attend. The event will start in front of Central United
Methodist Church and go down Capital Avenue to Michigan Avenue, Michigan
Avenue to Museum Drive, and then will follow the River Trail toward Old Town
and return. Every participant will receive a Run T-shirt. The top three finishers
in each category will receive a trophy or medal. All participants in the
Kid's One Mile Fun Run will receive a medal.
This is a great opportunity for fitness and fellowship. For more information
or flyers please contact the church office or Bob Wangen at 669-8433.
What is Native American Ministries?
Carolyn Schuurmans, CoChair, Missions Commission
Your special offering can enrich the United Methodist Church in many ways:
Mission with Native Americans in your Annual Conference and across the Connection
is developed and nurtured.
Native Americans attending United Methodist and other approved schools of
theology receive scholarships.
Urban ministries across the United States provide vital outreach to Native
Americans.
The envelope enclosed in the mailed copy of the Central Journal may be returned
in the Sunday Worship offering plate, or to the church office at 215 N. Capitol
Ave., Lansing, MI 48933.
Meet people, help out
David DeVinney
"Yea!", to the faithful men and women volunteers who run the front desk during
the week and free up staff to do their work. You are appreciated and essential
to Central's mid-week ministries.
There are current openings and an urgent need for four additional volunteers:
one morning, one afternoon and two substitutes.
Front desk volunteers answer the phone, assist persons at the counter and
do light office work 1/2 day a week. Training is available with mentoring
by a current volunteer.
Please call Lillian Rush, 482-3494, or Dominic Parker, 485-9477, to find
out more.
Offering of Letters Successful in 2001
Carolyn Schuurmans, Co-Chair, Mission Commission
The Hunger to Harvest Resolution passed Congress last December. It was adopted
unanimously in the Senate, and by a vote of 400-9 in the House. Bread for
the World members wrote at least 150,000 letters in support of the resolution,
which provides more assistance to sub-Saharan Africa. Also, $229 million
in debt relief was approved.
Also, significant improvements were made in the Food Stamp program in the
U.S. Just over half of the people eligible for food stamps get them. There
was also an increase in funding for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program
for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).
Men: Does the Bible have anything to say to us?
David DeVinney
Explore the Bible in a fellowship of men on the first, third and fifth Tuesdays,
9 – 10 a.m., in the Shalom Center at the back of Fellowship Hall.
No experience necessary to attend this ongoing, friendly fellowship. We have
just begun a study of Paul's Letter to the Galatians using Barclay's easy
to read commentary. Come and join us in a spirited exploration of our
faith.
For more information talk to Jim Stark, Justin Sleight, David Schuurmans
or call David DeVinney at 372-6761.
Farewell and God speed
Pat Wangen, Vice Chair, Pastor/Parish Commission
The Staff Parish Relations Committee invite you to a Farewell Party for John
Boley and family.
Friday, June 7
Potluck at 6:15 p.m., Program at 7:30 p.m.
The potluck will be held in the Dining Room. Please bring your own table
service and a dish to pass as listed, if possible. If your last name begins
with: __ , Bring: __.
A—K - A main dish
L—Q - Salad or Vegetable dish
R—Z - Dessert
Helpers and ideas for the program are needed. If you have ideas or wish to
be a part of the program, please contact Dick Murley (482-4700) or Karen
Holoweiko (626-6798) by May 6. It will help if financial contributions are
made by May 19. They can be sent to the church office or dropped in the
collection plate designated for the Boley family. If you have questions,
please contact Pat Wangen (669-8433).
Among Friends
Thank You…
Thank you to those who donated many personal need items to the Fellowship
Luncheon guests. Also, thank you for the new wash cloths, cards and magazines.
May God love and bless you for thinking of those less fortunate.
Margaret Woolcocks
Along with a beautiful service, joyful music, and welcome sunshine, Central's
children enjoyed yet other treats on Easter morning: Thanks to Julie Cooper
for the gifts of a touching children's sermon, as well as the pretty sand
dollars. Thanks to the bunny who left a basket of goody-filled Easter eggs
to distribute. (Rumor has it that Pat Mort was intimately involved in this
arrangement). The little kids and the big kids appreciated it!
The Forgrave family
Remember…At press time:
Margaret Holmes – at home
Joyce McCellelan – at home
Norma Mitchell – Hopice of Lansing
Ruth Norton – at Mary Ann and Bob Broda, 3408
Balmars Ave., Jackson, MI 49201
Kathy Prout – Recovering at home
Transitions…
Sara McCann and Paul Eberhardy were married
April 20.
Tennille Hileski and Hudson Whitmore will be
married May 11.
For Sale
18" x 18" safe with key combination - $125
10" x 6" safe, front slot, double key - $50
Two pieces of weight training equipment with pullys and weights – $125
Please call Carolyn Turner in the church office: 485-9477. The Board of Trustees
offer these items in an ongoing effort to liquidate unused items owned by
the church.
Trustees still busy; Read what we're up to!
Susan Grettenberger, Chair, Board of Trustees
Yes it's true--the Trustees have been working hard for the past two months,
between finding a parsonage for Russ McReynolds, our new pastor, and working
out the many details of the land swap involving the state and our church
neighbors, St. Paul and First Baptist. We thought you might be interested
in an update.
First the parsonage--the trustees and congregation approved the purchase
of a parsonage for our incoming pastor. Located at 2828 Woodview, just down
from the Murley's house, the house is a very nicely kept Cape Cod. But, don't
take our word for it! Plan to come see it yourself in June when we have an
open house. No date yet, but keep an eye on the Jouirnal and the worship
bulleting. We will announce it asd soon as we know ore. The closing is scheduled
for April 17 and should be completed by the time you read this.
After some consideration, the trustees made some changes to the funding plan
as a result of discussions at the congregational conference. The entire parsonage
fund will be spent on the purchase and the remainder will be borrowed with
interest from the Partners for Preservatgion Fund. If you would like more
of an explanatioon, please contact me by phone or catch me after worship
on a Sunday. There were several good reasons to do the funding this way.
Second, the parking lot--many details regarding the parking lot are still
being worked out with the state and the other two churches. This is not
surprising, considering the complexity of the whole deal. We are still working
on the price and on details about the number of parking spots Central will
have in the lot. The state has shown considerable responsiveness such as
redrawing how much of our current parking lot they need. (We will lose fewer
feet making maneuvering easier). Thanks for John Boley's work too.
The trustees will continue to do what we have been doing to this point:
1 Negotiate with the state, including clarification of issues with which
we have concerns.
2 Determine how much cash total will be needed to make the exchange with
the state.
3 Develop a proposal for the other churches concerning allocation of the
parking lot spaces and costs.
4 Finalize how the north parking lot will be jointly owned.
5 Determine how to replace the storage space for things like the lawnmower
and snow blower that now are housed in the garage.
6 Be sure to address what is still unknown.
7 Eventually, make sure we have the money to pay for this. You are all welcome
and encouraged to think about how you might be able to support this venture
of the church. We already have a good start on the parking lot fund. (Donating
appreciated stock is one idea.)
Please remember that the trustees are simply your co-worshipers to whom you
have entrusted the physical needs of the church. Hold us in your prayers,
and when you have questions, ask about what we are up to.
Welcome new members!
Sue Mills, Evangelism Commission
Christie DeMik has come to Central from the Indianapolis area. She is is
nurse at Ingham Regional Medical Center in Lansing. Christine's interests
include outdoor activities, and she is very into computers.
She and Allen Blower, originally from Saginaw, are planning a June 22 wedding
and are pleased that John Boley will be able to officiate. Allen is employed
by Clark Constructions in Lansing. He is an avid outdoor sports person.
Christine and Allen say they have received a warn welcome and, of Central,
say, "We love it."
Sara McCann and Paul EWberhardy were unavailable at press time.
Can you spare an hour?
Dennis Kelley
Join the Spring Clean-Up at Central Saturday, May 4
Saturday May 4 is Spring Clean-up Open House at Central, sponsored by the
Young Adults. There's lots of cleaning, organizing and fix-up to do. The
projects have been identified by the trustees. However, if you know of other
projects in the church that you would like to see addressed, please let us
know.
Your help is appreciated even for one hour – come and go as you wish.
We'll begin at 8:30 a.m. and end by 4 p.m. Lunch and refreshments are provided
by the Young Adults throughout the day. A Trustee will be on hand to help.
Sign up in Fellowship Hall on Sunday or call Dennis or Denise Kelley at 484-9109
or just show up. There will be a list of projects to work on and someone
to help you.
Hope to see you here! Let's make our church home as beautiful as the people
who attend here.
Click here to return to previous page, or to
A Central Place.
Ed Keen
Central's Adult Slow Pitch Softball team starts it's 2002 season on May 14.
Men and women play together in this recreational league of Lansing area United
Methodist Churches. Players should possess basic knowledge of the game and
some skill in throwing, catching and hitting the softball.
Because of retirements, players from prior years who now have schedule conflicts,
and players moving away, there are still many open places on the roster.
There are also openings
in the coaching staff for assistant and bench coaches.
Games are played as doubleheaders on Tuesdays through the end of July. Play
is open to men and women of all ages -- the minimum suggested age is 14.
The first game of the evening, which is timed at one hour, starts at 6:30
p.m. The second game is not timed. The season ends with a double elimination
tournament in which all teams participate on a weekend in late July or early
August. Game shirts are provided by Central UMC. Royal blue caps with a "C"
on them are preferred but not furnished by the church.
If you haven't signed up or need more information contact Ed Keen during
Fellowship Hour or call him in the evening at 321-4967. You can also e-mail
Ed at FASTEDD@aol.com. If the weather cooperates and fields are available,
we will try to schedule some practices before the season starts.
The team also appreciates fans at our games. As soon as the schedule is
announced, look for it and try to fit the games into your schedule to either
play or cheer the team on.
BREAD FOR THE WORLD OFFERING OF LETTERS – 2002
"Working from Poverty to Promise"
Come to Fellowship Hall on Sunday, May 12
Many people in the United States are having a difficult time keeping food
on the table and a roof over their heads. Thirty-one million people live
below the federal poverty level ($14,630 for a family of 3) and 16 million
of them are children. Two million families are composed of a single mother
and young children with an average annual income of $8,600. Employed people
below the poverty line usually earn about $6.50-$7.00 per hour, and not full
time.
Churches and charities help. Central UMC has a food bank on Wednesday mornings
and a free lunch on Thursdays. However, our government cannot expect churches
to fill all the needs. The government must do its part to help people achieve
self-sufficiency. It can offer hope and opportunity for those who struggle
to have enough to eat. The 2002 offering of letters seeks to strengthen the
nation's safety net program for low-income families called "Temporary Assistance
for Needy Families" (TANF).
So far, welfare reform efforts have aimed to reduce the caseload. Bread for
the World urges changes to reduce poverty, not just caseload, by changing
TANF rules to allow adults to gain the education and training they need to
be successful in the work force. They would also like TANF to improve the
support system for working poor families, such as child care and transportation
assistance. The government needs to ease time limits on receiving benefits
and to ensure funding for the program.
A recent headline in the Lansing State Journal said, "State governors protest
President Bush's new welfare legislation." The governors, including Gov.
Engler, say that crucial elements of the plan would hamper successful state
programs already in place. So, the Bread for the World offering of letters
is especially important at this time. Address: U.S. Senator, Washington,
D.C. 20510 and U.S. house of Representatives, Washington, D.C.
20515.
The Mission Commission will again have a COOKIE SALE ($2 for two GIANT cookies)
in order to make Central's 2002 contribution to Bread for the World. Please
stop by Fellowship Hall after church on Sunday, May 12 and buy some delicious
cookies and sign letters to members of Congress for BREAD FOR THE WORLD OFFERING
OF LETTERS- 2002.
Click here for next page.