Central

Journal . . . electronic edition

                                                                                                         May, 2003

Keeping Members and Friends Informed

                                      Promoting Fellowship                                                                                       
                                                         Contributing to Spiritual Growth

Thanks for Lent and the Hallelujah Chorus!!

This year the time of Lent, Ash Wednesday through Easter, was a complete religious experience for me. There were approximately 13 churches coming together for Ash Wednesday services at University UMC, East Lansing, on one of the worst snow days in March. It was the same night of a MSU basketball game. Yet, clergy and laity showed up in big numbers. It was a perfect beginning. I was personally thrilled with the mass Choir representing the 13 churches, Bishop Linda Lee’s sermon, the community meal before the service and the fellowship time following. Central members were there in nice numbers and I was one of the last persons to leave.

Our Church and Society Commission was helpful in enhancing the period of Lent with a luncheon program every Wednesday at noon. Judge Beverly Nettles/Nickerson, Hugh Clark, C. Peter Dougherty, Ron Uken, and the Environmental person, spoke about relevant issues facing society. It was a worthwhile experience. About 30 people, including downtown friends, came each Wednesday. I didn’t want to see it end. A special thanks to our Church and Society Commission.

There was joy and pleasure also with the Holy Week services in the Mary Sabina Chapel. It was an excellent opportunity to hear creative messages from an interdenominational group of preachers. There was music for us and our friends from downtown and other churches, as a part of the noontime worship. Some people have said, correctly, we could have publicized these opportunities much better.

A special appreciation goes to Central members and staff (Bob Roth and Caryn Welter) for the Seder Meal with Holy Communion on Maundy Thursday. Marge Sleight kept reminding me of the particulars of the meal to be remembered. It connected us to our Jewish background, including the condition of slavery, and the meaning of Communion. It brought us together as a church family. The participation was good. But there was a desire by many of us for our other friends to be present.

Good Friday services proved inspirational, as well, with the preaching of the Seven Last Words of Jesus at the Pilgrim United Congregational Church. Crucifixion was understood. Peter Robinson, Pastor of Pilgrim, kept saying, “Friday is here but Sunday is coming.” Central UMC was well represented and many of our people stayed from noon until after 3 p.m. The Holy Week services and the Good Friday services were sponsored by the Pastors’ Alliance of Greater Lansing. People kept expressing thanksgiving to Central for its hospitality.

Easter Sunday did come and was still the highlight. I knew that we were going to sing the Hallelujah Chorus, so I did all I could, with God’s help and the cooperation of the people, to make certain we were singing the Chorus before 10:25 a.m. so our radio audience could have the same experience. People came from the congregation to participate in the singing. It was powerful. I was on another cloud, experiencing the resurrection of Jesus the Christ. Hallelujah!!
Russell
New Members
Rev. Russell McReynolds

During worship March 30, the following members joined Central’s family:

Byron Pershing moved to Lansing last fall where he had been an active member of Plainwell UMC. He enjoys his grandchildren. He is quickly becoming known at Central for his ability to sing Beatles songs from the 60s. He is interested in using his talents for fundraisers.

Elita Chindabata came from Zimbabwe, Africa in 1997 to Washington, D.C. where she earned her B.S. degree in computer information systems. She moved to Lansing in January of this year and is waiting for acceptance in the graduate program at MSU. She has already endeared herself with other members of Central.

Anita Gamble returned to East Lansing, after living in the State of New York for several years, to care for her ailing father . She was active in a United Methodist church in that state. She works as a registered nurse for Sparrow Hospital. Anita is committed to the peace movement.

Eric Delanyo Alifo moved to Lansing from Ghana, Africa to attend Cooley Law School. Most of you know Eric because he lives in the church apartment and volunteers as a building attendant. He right away related to Central UMC members and has shared his international experience with the congregation and especially with our youth groups. Eric is married to Edinam Alifo who is in Nottingham, England working on her MSC in Tourism Marketing & Marketing.

Carey McConkey is the Director of Public Relations/Marketing/ Outreach for the Boarshead Theater. She is planning a summer wedding to Reid Moreland.

Reid Moreland lives in the Okemos area, and works at Bergmann Associates. Reid and Carey are known for bringing relatives and friends to Central’s worship services.

Others who attended the membership classes are David Bednar, William Lee, and Margaret North.
Church Women United to celebrate May Friendship Day
Carolyn Schuurmans

Friday, May 2, CWU will celebrate the annual May Friendship Day at Holt United Methodist Church, 2321 N. Aurelius Road. The board meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m. There will be a potluck salad lunch at noon with the program at 1 p.m.

The title of the program is “Many Gifts, One Spirit”. Everyone is welcome for all or part of the day. For information contact Carolyn Schuurmans (321–0569).
Education
Bob Roth, Minister of Christian Formation


Coming June 23:
Vacation Church School!

Organized and inspired around the theme “Lighthouse Kids: Shining God’s Light.“ Children, pre–Kindergarten through 5th grade, will come together this summer for four days of Bible stories, singing, crafts, food and fun. Spread the word NOW!!

The children of Central and Potter Park UMC, their friends and relatives, and kids from the neighborhood are invited to come to the church to…
Monday through Thursday, June 23 – 26, we will gather in the sanctuary at 9:30 and conclude with lunch in the dining room at 12:00 noon. Watch for ways to sign up in May bulletins and in the June Central Journal. If you have questions, please speak with Julie Cooper or myself.


Reminder:

College Scholarship applications are now available in the church office.


Reminder #2:

As adults, it is still essential for our own Christian development to attend classes and other groups where we can grow with other Christian seekers. Though some of our adult electives are finished for the year, please know that you are welcome to attend the “Communing With God” (Joi Tennant, second floor lounge) or “Coffeehouse Discussion” (first floor lounge) groups (at 11:00 a.m.) any week you choose. Keith Pohl’s study of Bishop Spong’s book also continues, Sundays at 5 p.m., as do our Men’s Bible Study and Well Women’s Bible Study during the week.


YOUTH NEWS

May 4 – Both groups: 5 – 7 p.m. May 10 – Saturday Service Project May 11 – Mother’s Day May 18 – Both groups: 5 – 7 p.m. May 25 – Both Groups: All Youth and Families go to Frances Park for year–end picnic
These youth are going through the confirmation class experience:

Abby Cooper
Antonio Grettenberger
Paul Grettenberger
Sam Holoweiko
Simon Holoweiko

Please pray for your friends.


Upcoming Dates:

Two very important worship services on Sunday at 9:30 a.m.:
Confirmation Sunday: June 1
Graduation Sunday: June 8

Lugnut Baseball Game, June 22.
We will leave, walking, from the church at 1:30 p.m.
SPONSOR A RADIO BROADCAST...
in honor of a loved one and support this ministry outreach. Please contact Pat Basgall at the church office, 485–9477.

If you would like an audio or video tape of a broadcast, please contact Pat prior to the date requested if possible. There is no charge for tapes but donations are accepted.
“Our radio broadcast is very cost effective evangelism and outreach to the community. And I listen to it when I am home.” –Ed Keen
Music Notes
Caryn Welter, Music Director


Celebration of the Christian family will be Sunday, May 11. The Youth Musical Group and Wesley Choristers will join with the Chancel Choir to sing “God’s Family of Love.”

Sunday, May 18, marks a Celebration of Music. The Wesley Choristers, Youth Musical Group, Youth Orchestra, Spirit Singers, and Chancel Choir will participate in various components of the worship experience.

June 1 brings a new forum for the Chancel Choir in worship. The work being done by the Chancel Choir, I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes, begins with resolute praise; the second movement is bluesy and queries, “How long, O Lord, will Thou forget / hide Thy face from me?”


Music Activities for Children and Youth

May 4 – Orchestra rehearsal at 8:45 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

May 11 – Youth and Children sing during worship; Orchestra Rehearsal – 8:45 a.m.

May 18 – Youth and Children rehearse with Chancel Choir at 9:00 a.m. in sanctuary, then sing during worship; last day for music classes; Youth Orchestra rehearses at 8:45 a.m. in Fellowship Hall, plays during worship.
Discover your Spiritual Gifts – Retreat
Karen Holoweiko, Chair, Committee on Lay Leadership


Your Committee on Lay Leadership will be hosting a Spiritual Gifts Retreat on Saturday, May 10 from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. at First United Methodist Church on Delta River Dr. in Lansing. It is our desire to offer this opportunity for our church family members and to help us help you in your desire to claim your God–given gifts.

We promise fun, fellowship and food (spiritual and some you can eat) with time for worship, song and prayer.

If you would like to attend, or if you have questions, contact Karen Holoweiko at 626–6798 or Pat Bell at porcbell@mindspring.com or Russell McReynolds (wherever you can find him) by May 1. The cost for food and supplies will be $10.00 per participant. Hope to see you there!
Food for thought from the Food Bank
David Schuurmans

Central’s Food Bank obtains most of its food from the local Red Cross Regional Food Distribution Center, and the food is paid for by the Greater Lansing Food Bank.

During 2002 we gave out $8,789 worth of food from the Red Cross, but it cost the Greater Lansing Food Bank only $2,459. This is because a large portion of this food comes to the Red Cross as donations from the food industry. In addition, we gave out about $800 worth of food collected by Central’s youth groups, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, and various other groups and individuals. During the year, we gave out food to about 350 individuals.
Post minutes, please
Pat Basgall, Administrative Secretary


Many of you are aware of the bulletin board on the wall between the second floor Conference Room and the elevator lobby. It was created with the intent that each committee would post their minutes to the board on a monthly basis. This would allow all members to have access to the minutes and enable them to remain current on the activities of each committee.

By United Methodist Discipline, we are to retain copies of Committee Meeting minutes in our archives. Please remember to post your minutes each month or give your minutes to me and I will see that they are posted. This posting includes the Administrative Council and all committees. Can we all make an effort to see that this is done ASAP?
BREAD FOR THE WORLD
Offering of Letters - May 11
Carolyn Schuurmans, Mission Commission Co-Chair


On Mother’s Day we will have our annual Offering of Letters for Bread for the World. Bread for the World is a Christian voice for ending hunger. It is a non-partisan, ecumenical citizen’s movement that addresses hunger by lobbying our nation’s decision makers on legislation concerning hunger in our communities and around the world.

This year we are writing about an announcement made by President George W. Bush before a conference in Monterey, Mexico in 2002. At that time he said the U.S. would significantly increase development assistance to poor countries. At this conference 189 countries, including the U.S., set up targets for cutting extreme hunger and poverty and for substantially improving health and education in developing countries by 2015. These targets are called the Millennium Development Goals. President Bush said the U.S. would plan on increased assistance in a new Millennium Challenge Account to fund initiatives that improve the lives of people in developing countries around the world.

Our letters this year will be to encourage adequate funding in the budget for this project and to encourage using the funds in the most effective ways we have learned from past experience. This means development assistance should be given to countries most in need to relieve the suffering of its poorest citizens. Also, we have learned that aid given to governments that promote human rights and democracy, fight corruption, and involve their citizens in policy making is the most effective way of relieving hunger.

Please stop by the table in Fellowship Hall on Sunday, May 11, to sign a letter or pick up a copy and then write your own letter. This is the most effective way to influence our congressmen and congresswomen.


GIANT COOKIE SALE !

Also on May 11 we will have our usual GIANT cookie sale during the coffee hour in Fellowship Hall. Mission Commission members are baking the cookies. We ask $2.00 for two cookies, but more money is accepted. All of the money goes to Bread for the World as a donation from Central UMC. Bread for the World is an Advance Special of the United Methodist Church.
A Resource For Learning: The Michigan Christian Advocate
Bob Roth, Minister of Christian formation


Did you know that we United Methodists publish a dynamic, creative resource for church leaders, teachers, musicians, and servants of all kinds called The Michigan Christian Advocate? Do you subscribe? There are many pages of “Tools and Trends,” “Issues and Ideas,” “Reflections on the Journey” and other material directly relevant to our local church ministry.

I believe all committee chair people, administrative council members, teachers, leaders and those who like to be connected to other churches and ideas should subscribe. Because Central UMC is on the Family Group Plan, individual subscriptions for a full year of the MCA are only $12! Please let Leora Stutes or me know if you would like to check out a copy or if you would like to subscribe.

(For those already subscribing: the renewal time has come; please give Leora a check for $12. made payable to Central UM Church and earmarked “Advocate.”)
THE JOURNEY IN THE HEART OF CUMC
Eric Delanyo Alifo


The song “Amazing Grace” has a line that reads; “’Tis grace that brought me safe thus far and grace will lead me home.” So this amazing grace has kept and protected me in the heart of Central United Methodist Church for all these months. I have not been in school this term; our hopes almost waned but the love of God demonstrated through everyday interactions with members of CUMC performed the urgent magic I require to get going.

I have finally found a co–signer for a little education loan, and I will begin classes again on May 5. My sincerest gratitude extends to the leadership and membership of the church. Many families would never give up on me; they have made my happiness their pre–occupation. I wish to express a special appreciation to the Mission Commission for the continuous support of my case.

I intend to take a little column in subsequent issues of the Central Journal as “Delanyo Alifo Discussion Corner” and I hope to interact more with the congregation in this column. ‘Tis grace that brought me safe thus far, and grace will definitely ensure my success.
Sign–in

Part of the Ritual of Friendship Sunday mornings is signing the registration pads in the pews. The Evangelism Committee uses this information to determine who may not be attending and then can follow-up with those who are absent, so please Sign–in.

– Bob Wangen
BLOOD DRIVE
David Schuurmans


St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is holding a blood drive at the church on May 10 from 8 a.m.–2 p.m. If you wish to donate blood, phone Ellie Doersam at 484–7089 or the church office at 482–9454 to make an appointment. This is a very positive way to support our service people in Iraq. In addition, St. Paul’s hold food drives and donates the food to our Food Bank for distribution. Participating in the blood drive is a way we can repay their efforts.
Among Friends

Remember …
At press time:

Angela Easterday’s grandmother
Russell Smith – at home
Ruthann Jaquette’s father in Florida
Rev. Lynn Grimes
Donald McLaughlin – at Burcham Hills


Baptisms...

Nigil McReynolds
Ashley Grettenberger
Ricardo Reymundo Flores


Transitions...

William Hanson, Norma Hanson’s brother, died April 12.
Neva Bacon, longtime past member, died April 20.
“Thanks”


Rev. John W. Boley, Chairperson of the West Michigan Annual Conference Board of Church and Society, sent the following note of thanks to Rev. McReynolds and Administrative Council Chairperson, Jamie Zimmer:

“On behalf of the Board of Church and Society of the West Michigan Annual Conference, I would like to thank all the people of Central UMC for your terrific work in hosting ‘Making Peace in Arenas of Violence’.

“On a personal level, it was great to see old friends and parishioners. But more importantly, the people of the congregation were gracious hosts and we could tell that much work went into facilitating this event and making it run smoothly. A special thanks to Justin (Sleight) and his crew in the kitchen. Lunch was great and everyone attending was well fed, served and cared for.

“Once again, the Central UMC facility proved to be a gem–its versatility and beauty are truly a thing to behold. We are all blessed.”
The Lenten Lunch on April 12 was a wonderful experience!
Pat Mort, UMW President


Mable Morrison and Rebekah Ruth Circles made everyone feel welcome. The Red Apron Brigade once again did their part to help the entire event go off without a hitch. A big thank you to all those who helped. The meal, program, and fellowship were truly inspired.
F.O.C.U.S.
Focus on Christ Unity and Service = Young adult social group
Denise Kelley


GAME NIGHT Friday, May 9, – Tea Room.

There will be many great games to play, good food to munch on and prizes to be won. This is a time to get to know other people at Central and make some new friends. If you need child care or have questions, please call Jamie 485-0573, Janet 394–0174, or Denise/Dennis 484–9109. You may also e-mail your response to CUMCFocus@aol.com. Hope to see you there!
BOOKS FOR SALE
Ed Spink, Library Task Force


Sunday, May 11 and 18.

Used books will be available in the library for your selection. “Sale” is by donation with all proceeds to be used to purchase new books and media. Come browse and make your selections. Plan to stock up now for your summer reading pleasure. There will be books to catch the interest of all ages.

“Libraries are the second defense of freedom. Reading is the first.”
Plaaaaay Baaall!
Edward Keen


Central's Adult Softball Team is preparing to start the 2003 season in mid–May. You are invited to be a part of this team of men and women. All regular season games will be played on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. These are double headers. The tentative date for the season-end tournament is August 9. The first practice, weather permitting, will be April 29 (location to be announced). If you can't make the first game but could make the second game at about 7:40 p.m., that's OK. If you can play only part of the season, which will run to the first week in August, that’s OK also. The only qualifications are that you are 14 or older, have some softball/baseball experience, are willing to enjoy the GAME and be part of the TEAM. There is no individual player fee. Jerseys are supplied by the Church. All players get to play and bat in each game they attend.

You can sign using the sign up sheet in Fellowship Hall or by calling Ed Keen, 321-4967, evenings. The season schedule will be published soon.
The Shalom Center For Justice and Peace
Rev. Bob Roth, Director


Thank-you, Central, for March 29!

Many thanks to the many people from Central Church who made hosting the Michigan Area UM event “Making Peace In Arenas Of Violence” such a great success. A special thank-you to Dr. Justin Sleight and all who helped put on the luncheon for this huge crowd of Methodists.


Pray For The Soldiers

Whatever our varied perspectives on recent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq (in both, bombing continues and soldiers lives are at risk) or a possible new war in Syria or Iran, may we pray always for soldiers from our church family. From Central:

Dallas Hutchison, (Zago’s son–in–law), U.S. Army, Kuwait
Malcolm McReynolds, (Pastor’s son), U.S. Army, Philadelphia.
Jeff Roth, MI National Guard, unit activated to remain in Michigan.
Chuck Sargent, U.S. Army Artillery, Kuwait
David Wangen, U.S. Air Force, Wright Patterson AFB Dayton, Ohio.
Sandra Wangen, U.S. Army Medical Support Company, Kuwait
Scott Wangen, U.S. Army, Middle East

Please also pray for Matthew Ross, (Mary Nesman’s second cousin), U.S. Army, Kuwait, and Robert Phelps (my sister Barb’s fiancee), MI. National Guard, possible deployment to Kuwait.


Shalom Center volunteers needed

If you have interest in becoming more involved in peace and justice issues, maybe you have a spare hour or two each week to volunteer in the Shalom Center. Please ask me if you simply have questions about what this would involve.
Trustees News
David DeVinney, Trustee


Parking lot bulletin:

Be prepared for parking disruption the last week of April and first week of May. As part of the state parking ramp project and land swap, the state will reconstruct the approach drive to our parking lot. Additionally, we are replacing the catch basin, and line to the city sewer and the state contractor has agreed to resurface and stripe the lot. The lot will be kept open as much as possible during construction – if it is not completely closed off, we can park there if there is room. However, please be prepared to park elsewhere. (Note: Do not park at First Presbyterian without a daily pass.)


Spring Church Work Bee

In order to keep the church looking its best, a work bee is planned for Saturday, May 10 from 9 a.m. to noon We will clean the torrazo floors and/or oil the woodwork. Please bring pails and gloves. Sign Up in Fellowship Hall, or Call Claudia McClelland, 339–8490. Thanks!


Water a flower, trim a bush; glorify God, welcome our neighbors

There is an opportunity for someone to coordinate the upkeep of the grounds and gardens at Central. We are at a strategic corner in Lansing; at the crossroads of commerce, government and faith. When the new State House of Representatives parking ramp is completed in June, hundreds more State workers and decision makers will walk past our front doors. “Christians are a lot like pianos – they may be square, grand or upright, but they are no good to anyone unless they are in tune.”

One way to greet these neighbors, and welcome them, is with attractive and cared for grounds. Currently, several individuals and families plant and maintain a section of these grounds. Dottie Stark recruited and organized this effort and now has stepped down. This is a chance to participate in the display of God’s creation right here where we worship. Please call David DeVinney, 372–6761, for more information.
The Festival of God’s Creation - Earth Day
Joyce Joranko


As with all aspects of global climate change, the problems and solutions seem to overwhelm us. We need to assume the position of concern. As with all concerns, we need to lift them in our prayers. Therefore, let us continue our thoughtfulness for the environmental blessings that God has given us and pray that we would be mindful in our use and conservation of new resources.

The water-poverty connection:

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