May, 1999
Keeping Members and Friends Informed
Promoting Fellowship
Contributing to Spiritual Growth
Central supports Jubilee 2000 and Bread for the World Offering of Letters
By Carolyn Schuurmans, Co-Chairperson, Global Missions
Commission
On May 23rd, Peace with Justice Sunday, the Global Missions Commission will
sponsor the annual Bread for the World Offering of Letters.
Jubilee 2000 is a campaign supported by many denominations. Jubilee is proclaimed
in Leviticus 25: every 50 year, a time of liberation was to be proclaimed:
liberation from oppression of debt, from slavery, from landlessness. No one
was to live permanently in want and to be exploited by others.
Bishop Desmond Tutu says, "Developing countries in Africa, Latin America
and Asia stagger under the increasing burden of international debt. In Tanzania,
where 40 percent of the population dies before age 35, the government spends
nine times more on foreign debt payments than on health care."
A Tanzanian church official wrote, "Our government spends 35 percent of its
revenue to pay external debts while schools have no desks and children die
of malnutrition. In sub-Saharan Africa, governments owe foreign creditors
an average of almost $400 for every man woman and child -- more than most
Africans make in an entire year."
In 1997 -- before Hurricane Mitch -- more than one-half of all government
revenues in Nicaragua was spent on debt servicing. Even with this level of
payment, which is more than twice the combined health and education budget
of the country, Nicaragua consistently failed to make debt payment in full.
Thirty percent of their children are malnourished and seventy-four percent
of the people live in poverty.
"You will have an opportunity on Sunday, May 23rd to sign
letters to our legislators urging them to support
Bread for the World legislation."
Bread for the World has encouraged our government to give debt relief before,
and the United States has provided $2.3 billion in debt relief to the poorest
countries since 1991. Poland was offered $2.5 billion in 1991, and the $7
billion Egypt owed was cancelled after the Desert Storm conflict.
In some countries greed and corruption by the leadership has contributed
to their debt. Newly elected governments find themselves strapped with debts
incurred by former dictators. Bread for the World supports legislation requiring
decisions about debt relief and development programs to be made through
broad-based consultation with the country's citizens.
Countries that continue to experience gross violations of human rights, blatant
drug trafficking, excessive military expenditures or ethnic conflicts would
be ineligible for debt relief.
Church World Service urges the U.S. government to use its leadership in the
international community to support and promote debt cancellation for impoverished
countries.
It needs to be accomplished in a way that reduces poverty and restores economical
and environmental justice for people who have born the major burden of their
countries' indebtedness.
You will have an opportunity on Sunday, May 23rd to sign letters to our
legislators urging them to support Bread for the World legislation. You will
also have the opportunity to buy delicious chocolate chip cookies to help
pay our Covenant Church contribution to Bread for the
World.
Pastor's Pen ...
Our six-week Lenten Study on homosexuality was an important event in facing
an issue clouding the very future of the Christian Church. As stated at the
outset, our intention was to perform a study - to achieve a greater understanding
- it was not to reach a conclusion. Many of the thoughtful and courageous
people who attended believe that that was accomplished and have had their
hearts softened to people who do not share their view. We looked at the human
reality of homosexuality and the Social principles of the United Methodist
Church.
We traced past divisions and unions in the Methodist movement. We reviewed
the Biblical passages generally considered to relate to homosexuality and
studied the traditional view and the alternative view of Scriptural intent.
We considered the nature of homosexuality and differing opinions on whether
it is a matter of sin, the physiological results of genetics, and/or
environmental factors. We conducted an exercise in widening our own tolerance
by assuming views contrary to those we held. And we discussed implications
for the ministry of the Church, including a Pastoral Statement on same sex
unions.
But it may have been during the small group conversations where the most
significant insights occurred. It was in these moments where it became apparent
that the issue was more than words - that there were faces involved. Many
stories were told of how we are confronted in our public and private lives
with those who are struggling today with questions of sexual identity, sexual
orientation, and sexual practice. We saw tears shed, and we sensed pain.
The greater understanding we developed in those six weeks led us to see that
this is not a clear cut matter from any perspective. Only God can make a
conclusive determination of what is in God's childrens'
hearts.
Perhaps our best course is to step aside from judgement, and to nurture an
atmosphere where the wisdom of God's Will can be heard and expressed. Through
prayerful discernment founded in Christian love, we may find that sincere
people with differing perceptions are not so far apart after all, have much
more in common than in difference and can live in God's house together as
brothers and sisters in Christ.
Grace and Peace, John
Special Notes
SPRING CLEANING TIME
If you find any books or magazines borrowed from our Ralph Goodell Library
at Central Church, please return them to the library desk or drop them in
the "Returned Books" box at left of the library doors. They will be welcomed
back! Thanks for looking.
FRANK JORANKO HONORED
Mr. Frank L. Joranko, who had joined Central along with his spouse Joyce,
upon his retirement as Athletic Director of Albion College, was honored by
the dedication of a baseball field in his name on Tuesday, April 27th. We
congratulate him on this occasion. Frank is a graduate of Albion's class
of 1952.
THE MEN OF ORPHEUS
Orpheus singers will be in concert on Monday, May 17th (7:30 p.m.) at First
Presbyterian Church, in downtown Lansing. Gayle J. Pohl directing. The guest
artists will be The Holt Chorale. Tickets are $5
UMW FUNDRAISER
Arline Roe has RADA knives, peelers and spatulas for sale. They make wonderful
gifts and help support the UMW Missions Program.
SPECIAL MUSIC FUNDING
While remembering the recent glorious Easter music and the April 25th worship
service of special music with orchestra, it is appropriate to point out that
the outside musicians for these occasions were paid largely from non-budgeted
funds overseen by the Music Committee. Although these funds are sufficient
to meet our immediate needs, contributions to the "Music Committee Fund"
can be made at any time, and would help to insure that we can continue to
offer this quality of music for special worship services Dave Schuurmans,
Chairperson, Music Committee.
NEWS FROM PANAMA
Central has received a "good news" letter from Molly McCracken, regarding
her recent assignment as a Peace Corp worker in Panama. Her initial training
is complete and she recently received a two year assignment to a remote
Panamanian island called Ustupu. According to Molly, this site has a very
different language and culture than the Latin people of Panama. She now has
to learn the Kuna language and culture as well. Her new address is: Molly
McCracken, Cuerpo de Paz, Apartado 55-2205, Paitilla, Panama, Republic of
Panama.
CENTRAL NITERS
Saturday, May 22nd. Plan for another afternoon of sailing at Crystal Sailing
Club at Crystal Lake. Meet at the church at 1:00 p.m. for the one hour trip
to the lake. Bring a dish to pass and table service for a potluck dinner
at 5 p.m. For more information, call Dave or Carolyn Schuurmans at
321-0561.
NEWS NOTES
By B. Caryn Welter, Music Director
This article comes to commend all those whose fine efforts facilitate the
music portion of worship as a viable, meaningful, spiritual experience. The
beauty of music touches our hearts in ways that nothing else can. It allows
us to sing God's praises and to communicate God's word to those around
us.
If you were Jan Keen or one of the three Ebersoles who consistently guide
worshipers' ways to and from Sunday services by providing wonderful carillon
recitals, you are appreciated. If you are a parishioner whose participation
is through congregational singing, you are appreciated. If you are John Boley
and strive on a weekly basis to achieve that perfect blending of The Word
and music in a directed, flowing worship design, you are appreciated. If
you are Tom Hodgman whose keen sense of artistry and musicianship shown
masterfully through during the April 25 cantata, you are appreciated. If
your responsibility is with the Chancel Choir, consider how beautifully you
sing your messages to God and for the people; know that you are appreciated.
Handbell ringers' contributions add an entirely different dimension to church
music, and they require exceptional teamwork. Know, ringers, that you are
appreciated. If you are Michelle Smith whose wonderful ability to understand
and teach children showed itself to the whole church on Palm Sunday, you
are appreciated. Children who are part of the Wesley Choristers, the Children's
Choir, the Central Children's Chorale, and the soon-to-be Youth Musical Group,
you are cherished and valued with every note you sing.
On behalf of those who benefit from your every effort, I thank you. As you
plan for September, the music calendar looks like this, beginning the day
after Labor Day:
Tuesdays, 5:45 -- 6:30 p.m. -- Wesley Choristers
Tuesdays, 6:30 -- 7:00 p.m. -- Children's Choir
Tuesdays, 7:00 -- 8:00 p.m. -- Youth Musical Group
Thursdays, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. - Central Bell Ringers
Thursdays, 6:30 -- 7:30 p.m. -- Chancel Choir
As service opportunities present themselves -- Central Children's
Chorale
Calling all children!
By Michelle Smith, Director, Children and Wesley Choir
Only 2 more rehearsals left for the Mother's Day Program.Join us Sunday,
May 2nd, after children's church, in the music room, and Sunday, May 9th,
before church, in the sanctuary at 8:50 a.m. We will sing two songs in honor
of all the Mothers on Mother's Day. The songs are: "A Mother" and "A Friend."
I think you will really like the songs, and what a great present for your
Mother on Mother's Day.- you singing to her!
We look forward to seeing you at the next two rehearsals. If you need a copy
of the music, just go to the music room. There are plenty of copies just
for you. So don't worry if you've missed our other rehearsals, there is still
plenty of time for you to wow your Mom on Mother's Day!! See you at the next
rehearsal!
Youth
Don't forget we are singing at the graduation service! All rehearsals are
after church in the music room: Sunday, May 16, Sunday, May 23, Sunday. May
30, and Sunday, June 6
Central's Prayer Chain A confidential, prayer chain ministry is
available 24 hrs., 7 days a week. To initiate a prayer request please call
one of the following prayer chain leaders:
Daytime 8:00am - 5pm
Janet Mort at 321-2330, Karen Holoweiko at 626-6798, Pat Basgall at
485-9477
Evening 5:00pm -8:00am
Pat Bell at 482-4098, Nancy O'Shea at 372-6156
Our Prayer Chain Ministry is open to anyonewho would like to become a
participant.
Thank You Notes
Central Friends,
Your love and support have helped greatly in my recovery from surgery.
Marie Manson
Dear Friends,
Thank you to all who helped serve the reception for the Ken Browand Memorial
Service. Also to the UMW and many friends for your cards, your thoughtfulness
and especially your prayer support. It means so much to all of us.
The Browand Family
OBERAMMERGAU
Tickets for the June, 2000 event in Germany will be sold out in a few months.
There is still time, however, to sign up for the trip. See the Boley's or
Kirkby's for details, but do it quickly.
Quiet Moments
"NOBODY GROWS OLD" merely by living; people grow old by deserting their ideals.
Years wrinkle the skin, but giving up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul. Worry,
self-distrust and despair bow the head and turn the spirit to dust. You are
as your faith, and as old as your doubts; as young as your self-confidence,
as old as your fears; as young as your hope, as old as your despair." said
Zoroaster.
Common Cents
By Ruthann Jaquette, Office and Business Manager
As we have now closed the first quarter of 1999, we find, as we had anticipated
that our receipts fall short of our budgetary needs. We are currently looking
at a $ 43,000.00 deficit for the year. The Finance Committee is now looking
for creative ways to increase our revenue for the year, so that additional
budget cuts will not have to be made. The more pleasant news is that all
of our bills are paid to date, including our apportionments. Our special
giving is exceeding last years levels, and overall, thanks to our Board of
Trutees, we are continuing on the path started last year by spending more
money on building enhancements and updates that have been neglected for many
years. If is my personal belief that these trying times will be a good test
of our faith, not only our faith in God but also our faith in each
other.
I am confident, that as we have so many times before, with God help and the
committed support of each member we will perservere through these difficult
times.
Calvin Taylor to Play at Central
On Sunday, May 16th, Calvin Taylor will be with us during the normal worship
service to present a program for us entitled "Holy Scripture — Alive
with the Sounds of Music."
Taylor is a remarkable keyboardist who brings with him his own digital Steinway
Grand Piano, with mirrors and lights set up to allow all to see his huge
hands at work. He has toured throughout the world and has a rare ability
to combine classical and gospel music. There will be a free will offering
taken. It will be a grand worship experience!
Education, Worship and Service
By Denise Fabbri, Program Director
Mother's Day Celebration
This year the children of Central will help Rev. Boley make Mother's Day
a special day in the life of our church. Michelle Smith, the Children's Chorale
Director has planned the music and Julie Cooper has planned the other areas
our children will participate in. Please join us to make Mother's Day very
special at Central.
Church School Schedule Update
May 16
Last Day for the Indonesia Study
May 23
Last Day of Church School
May 30
Memorial Day Weekend
June 6
Heifer Project Carnival
Church Parking Lot
June 13
Graduation Sunday
June 21-25
Vacation Bible School
This year's VBS will be held at First Presbyterian Church on June 21-25 from
9:30-12:30. The theme will be "SON CASTLE FAIR." Helpers are needed, even
if you can only work one day. Please call Leigh Ann Maxwell at
372-7680.
Graduation Sunday
Please submit names of College graduates, their degree and any honors received
to Denise Fabbri for publication in the June
Journal.
International Year of the Older Person Luncheon
Our first presentation and luncheon was a great success. We had 43 participants.
Everyone was pleased with thegreat speaker we had, Nancy Weber, from Tri-County
Office on Aging.
Our second program-luncheon is planned for May 12th, 10:30-1. Our guest speakers
will be "Yesterday's Youngsters." This group of people produce a TV program
by the same title that is broadcast on WKAR. Parking will be available at
First Presbyterian Church with a shuttle service to Central. Transportation
will be available by calling the office. RSVP by May 5th.
Our third program is scheduled for June 8th The guest speakers are from the
Capitol City Task Force, a senior advocacy group. This group will discuss
issues facing Lansing area residents. The same arrangements for parking and
transportation are available for this day.
Special Note: The Tri-county Office on Aging will be providing our lunches
with a suggested donation of $2 per person
Come Join the Circle!!! Central Family Does Camp
Mark your calendars! Central's family will be gathering July 9-11 at Lakeview
Campground, for a weekend of fellowship, fun, and (of course) FOOD.We will
convene Friday evening circling the campfire, the first of our "circle"
experiences.
Saturday begins with study and experimental fun in and around the subject
of "circles," moves to shared lunch followed by time for swimming, games,
naps, etc., and ends circling the campfire for pizza and song.
Sunday, our worship continues in the morning followed by one more circle
before we make our way back to our real beds. Aha ...
What, you don't camp? Join us on Saturday for Drive-in Day. If enough people
are interested in this option we could make the van available. Lakeview is
just over an hour from Lansing and well worth the drive. For reservations,
contact Karen Holoweiko when you can at 626-6798.
"Our Church"
This Church is not prefect, but it seeks perfection in its care and concern
for every person who desires the fellowship and love of a Christian congregation.
We are not exclusive, but inclusive. Our circle of love is large enough to
include all. We invite you to be a part of it. From our Sunday Visitor
Card.
May Day Event Puts Central Church in Spotlight
By: Jon H. Reynolds, Partners for Preservation
Sixty persons attended a May Day luncheon hosted by Partners for Preservation.
The event was held to inform the congregation and community about the formation
of an endowment fund that will preserve and maintain the church and Scott
Temple House.
Those in attendance were treated to a box lunch and entertainment by the
children of the church who circled a gaily decorated May Pole. All joined
in singing of 'good ol' summer time songs.
Dr. Wayne Barrett, of the United Methodist Foundation of the West Michigan
Conference, spoke to those in attendance about various endowment opportunities
available to the congregation. Dr. Barrett explained how church members may
use various financial tools to benefit themselves, their families as well
as Central United Methodist Church. According to Barrett "it is up to each
individual to meet with their own legal and financial advisors as to how
they choose to participate."
Barrett will be available to meet with individual congregation members and
their legal and financial advisors to further assist with their planning.
The conference will make Dr. Barrett available throughout the coming months.
Times and dates of Dr. Barrett's availability will be announced. It is also
expected that Dr. Barrett will hold seminars regarding Wills and Estate Planning
in the coming months.
Central United Methodist Church Pastor, John Boley noted in his recent letter
to the congregation that: "Partnership for Preservation is our desire to
be faithful to past and future generations by taking care of the physical
needs of this great facility."
SOCIAL CONCERN OPPORTUNITIES
Annual Paint Blitz will take place on June 5th. This activity is sponsored
by the Lansing Neighborhood Council and has become an annual tradition at
Central. Each year, members and friends get together to paint a home for
an elderly or disabled person - all in one day. People are needed to paint
for 2-8 hours, provide snacks, and assist with child care. Please help -
and bring a friend. All supplies are provided, but we will need to borrow
ladders for this activity. Please call Mary Boudreau at 372-4146 for more
information. Child care and lunch will be provided.
Habitat for Humanity is having its annual "Walk for Humanity" to raise money
to build and rehabilitate homes for low-income people. Both walkers and sponsors
are needed to make this event a success. It will take place on May 2nd, and
involve a 5K (approximately 3 mile) walk. Please contact the Habitat for
Humanity office for more information.
Night of a Thousand Stars party is scheduled to raise money for the Lansing
Area AIDS Network. Fundraisers will take place throughout the Lansing area
on May 15th. Mary Boudreau and Susan Grettenberger are hosting a "kid friendly"
party at Patriarch Park in East Lansing from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch and
entertainment for the entire family is planned. If you would like more
information, please call Mary or Susan at 372-4146.
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