Central

Journal . . . electronic edition

                                                                                                         October, 2003

Keeping Members and Friends Informed

                                      Promoting Fellowship                                                                                       
                                                         Contributing to Spiritual Growth

Spiritual Renewal Weekend at Central

Friday, November 7, 7:30 – 9:00 PM
Rev. Faith Fowler, Detroit Cass UMC, Preaching
Music by the Earl Nelson Singers, and more!

Saturday, November 8, 2:30 – 5:00 PM
Learn about the spiritual disciplines
Worship with the Rev. Faith Fowler

Sunday, November 9, 9:30 AM., Worship with the Rev. Terry Eupes,
Administrative Assistant to the Bishop, Michigan area


Come Take time out. Bring a friend, a neighbor or a co–worker. Take time out for yourself. Worship, praise, experience spiritual renewal. Are you hungry for something more and wonder what it is? Do you ever think back to a time when you felt more connected to God and want to experience that again? Do you wonder how you can offer more of yourself to God? Come. Join us during this weekend of spiritual renewal.

Acts 2:1–2; “And when the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly, there came from heaven a noise like a rushing wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.”

At Pentecost, there was probably a sense of excitement among the apostles and others; a sense of waiting for the sweetness and power of that which was highly anticipated but unknown. There might have been some fear, as we mortals seem to fear that which is new or unknown.

Many people in our congregation have a sense that we are experiencing a renewal of spirit and ministry. We, like the apostles, are experiencing a sense of waiting for something anticipated and longed for, but unknown. Many of us desire a better understanding of what God calls us to individually and as a church. There is also a sense of fear at times, as the call may be difficult or something that challenges who we are right now or where we need to go. Be not afraid of what God can do. Join us and invite your friends to come share in our Renewal and Revival weekend. This weekend will be a step in our faith journey as we explore our spiritual life together.

Child care available for all events

more good news…
Rev. Dr. Russell McReynolds

“I Sing Because I’m Happy”

“I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free, His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me…” are the words of a Black spiritual and serve as my testimony as pastor of Central UMC. I am truthfully happy, blest and joyful. The Northmen of Fort Wayne, IN were in concert at Central Sunday evening to a nice crowd. This affirmed the idea of how significant and essential music and singing are to being faithful in this Christian walk. We laughed and had a great time. Why were we so joyful in the midst of our collective and known circumstances?

Our apportionments have not been paid in a timely manner. Only $5,000 was sent toward an annual obligation of $77,000. As we look at our church, built in 1887, we see the need for major repairs and the expenditure of significant money. Central is surrounded by people who are the “least, last, lost and lonely.” Our building is their sanctuary. So we keep it open and accessible. We have the challenge of being downtown and must attract people from all over to help resource this ministry. The Radio broadcast, which was threatened and has had good response, continues to be essential for our friends and us. In other words, there is less resources for a demanding situation. Thank God that circumstances don’t determine our joy and happiness.

Actually, Central UMC’s circumstances are ideal for ministry and faithfulness. Located in the heart of downtown Lansing, we are adjacent to both city and state government. You couldn’t demand a better situation

I thoroughly enjoy reading the book of Esther and identifying with the reality of her circumstances. It is made clear that she did not choose her situation. But the faith expression comes forth: “For such a time as this...”. It is precisely because of the circumstances of ministry and the opportunity to be faithful that we are placed at Central “For such a time as this.”

These circumstances give us an opportunity to see how rich, big, and relevant God is in our lives. My joy in ministry is not determined by ideal circumstances. My enthusiasm for ministry is an inside job. I know, like many of you, that God is the source of it all. Some, maybe awhole lot, need enough money, resources, good health, the attention, appreciation, and affirmation of others, to make for joy and happiness. For them, everything is outward and driven by circumstances.

We are able to rise above our circumstances because of a God willing to send a begotten son to disclose the mysteries of God, to show the more excellent way of love and peace. I enjoy watching God transform our finite circumstances of not enough into real possibility. We praise and serve a God who is able to overcome and lead us to the Promised Land. Lansing and the larger world community need Central.

We are being renewed physically and spiritually everyday. This is a statement of faith: The apportionments will be paid in full; a beautiful church, built in 1887, will be repaired and fixed up; and we will get a lighted cross placed back on top of the building in working order. Members will be recruited for Central’s ministry. In partnership with God, we can make a difference. I will continue to sing because I’m happy.

Education
Bob Roth, Minister of Christian Formation


Grace to you and peace in the name of Christ. Please familiarize yourself with our fall schedule below. As we better know the ministries of the church, we are more comfortable to invite others and help them get to the right place! Many, many thanks to all who are teaching and leading this fall. Additionally, we continue last year’s class on the book A Guide to Prayer for All God’s People (in the Shalom Center) on October 5. Watch your weekly worship bulletins for further details or give me a call at the church at your convenience. On October 19, we will begin our second six weeks and add another class (in the chapel) for adults, one on issues related to General Conference.


Children’s Classes and Music Activities

Pre–K – 1st Grade
11:00 Music Activities – Lindsay Kesselman
11:35 – 12:15 Sunday School – Mary and Doug Bowers (meets in the nursery)

2nd – 5th Grades
11:00 Music Activities – Lindsay Kesselman
11:35 – 12:15 Sunday School – Leigh Ann Maxwell, JoAnn Klein, and Colleen Weinfeld (Second Floor Classroom off the balcony of Fellowship Hall)


Youth Sunday School Classes

6th – 8th Grades
11:00 Sunday School – Dave Stinson and Bob Roth (Skylight Room)
11:40 – 12:15 Music Activities – Lindsay Kesselman (Music Rehearsal Room)

9th – 12th Grades
11:00 Sunday School – Julie Cooper and Eric Alifo (Loft)
11:40 – 12:15 Music Activities – Lindsay Kesselman (Music Rehearsal Room)


Adult Electives, 11:00 a.m.

“Genesis to Revelation” Study with Dale Kirkby and Leon Martin (Second Floor Conference Room)
This thorough, ongoing study of the Holy Scriptures always welcomes new people.

“New Member Class” Dr. Russell McReynolds and others (First Floor Classroom off Fellowship Hall balcony)
This a great class both for those considering membership or wanting a “renewal course”.

“Christianity 101” with Dennis Kelley, the pastors and others. (second floor lounge)
Using the fine booklet from Upper Room Books “A Seeker’s Guide To Christian Faith,” This new adult elective is a helpful first step into the life of faith. All are welcome.

“Coffee House” coordinators: Ann Forgrave and Kathy MacLaren (first floor lounge) This free–wheeling discussion time considers everything from the day’s sermon to parenting to...


Sunday Adult Elective, 5:00 p.m.

“Journeys With Jesus” with Keith Pohl (second floor lounge) This group will grapple a key question of Christian faith: “Who do you say that I am?” The Sunday afternoon class has become a wonderful place for those seeking deeper theological and Biblical insights.

Also note that our mid–week Men’s Bible study (1st, 3rd & 5th Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m.), Well Women’s study (1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m.), and the Shalom Center sponsored Circle of Peace (3rd Tuesdays at 11:00 a.m.) have begun for the fall. All are welcome!


Youth Group News

>>>>more details on what follows in the youth newsletter>

October 5: Blessing of the Animals
5:00 – 7:00 both youth groups together
The service, based on St. Francis of Assisi will be in the parking lot beginning at 5:00. Parents will take the animals home at 6:00 as we go into the church for discussion

October 12: CROP WALK
1:00 p.m. – We will leave from our church parking lot to travel to Dwight Rich Middle School
2:00 p.m. – Walk begins (We will return to our church parking lot around 4:30 p.m.)

October 19 F U N N I G H T
both groups: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
A night of fun, gym time & board games, both groups together for the evening.

October 26 – “Sponsor A Child”
both groups: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
This evening we will pass out materials and discuss our options. We will choose goals and methods for raising the money.

MusicNotes
Caryn Welter, Music Director


Mark your calendar now, folks . . . On Sunday, March 21, 2004, at 4 p.m. the American Guild of Organists, Greater Lansing Chapter, will sponsor a choral festival at Plymouth Congregational Church. Central’s Chancel Choir will participate, and invites past, present, or possible future vocalists to join us for this exciting event. It promises to be a real growing opportunity for musicians, and a special treat for those who attend.

Parents of Wesley Choristers and Youth Musical Group . . .These are tentative dates during the first semester and early part of 2004 when the two groups will be a part of morning worship. Please have students in the sanctuary, ready to rehearse, at 9 am.

October 5 – Wes. Chors. & Youth
October 19 – Wes. Chors. & Youth
November 16 – Youth
November 23 – Wes. Chors. & Youth
December 14 – Wes. Chors. & Youth
January 18 – Wes. Chors. & Youth
January 25 – Youth
February 8 – Wes. Chors. & Youth

Ms. Kesselman has infused a lot of culturally diverse music into this semester’s programming for the two groups. Drawing heavily from the work of a nationally renowned specialist in this arena, Michael Hawn, she will teach literature from India, Argentina, and Africa. Watch for much energy to show itself as the children and youth begin the year in these two programs!

The blessings of a Youth Bell Choir and Youth Orchestra…are once again being lifted up, as volunteers Kathy MacLaren and Bill Tennant look forward to launching a new program year. We are most grateful to those two for superb leadership in their respective areas. Watch for a bulletin insert that lists rehearsal and worship schedules for the Youth Bell Choir. The Youth Orchestra schedule follows:

Nov. 2 8:45–9:15 a.m. – Orchestra Rehearsal #1
Nov. 9 8:45–9:15 a.m. – Orchestra Rehearsal #2
Nov. 16 8:30–9:00 a.m. – Orchestra Rehearsal #3
Nov. 23 8:30 – 9:00 a.m. – Orchestra Rehearsal #4, then participate in worship

“OUR TOWN” at BoarsHead Theater
Bob Roth


Friday, October 3, at 8 p.m., the BoarsHead Professional Theater will perform Thornton Wilder's classic play “Our Town” with a special focus on for area churches. Because the play focuses on the values of a community, area churches will be able to purchase discount tickets for $15 for this one performance.

Information on how to purchase these tickets is available in our church office. Because of the involvement of the Pastors Alliance of Greater Lansing, this performance will be preceded by an ecumenical worship service at 6:30 p.m. next door at First Baptist Church.

Central's own Carey McConkey Moreland is the public relations director at BoarsHead Theater working on this church–theater–community connection.

This wonderful letter of thanks comes from Jessica Allen . . .

Dear Pastor McReynolds, Pastor Roth, Staff–Parish Relations Committee,Administrative Council, Music Committee, Finance Committee, and Board of Trustees,

I would like to thank you and express my deepest appreciation for your efforts and ingenuity in making my assistantship with MSU become a reality. It is not often that one encounters such willing people who are eager to encourage not only one’s spiritual development, but also one’s vocation, in such an exceptional way. But then, I believe Central is an exceptional place, caring for both spiritual and physical needs, by way of spreading the gospel of Christ.

Thanks to you, I will have an opportunity to work more closely this year with Dr. David Rayl, head of the conducting department at MSU. This assistantship offers me the ability to do all these things with more ease of finance, helping to free time for me to concentrate more fully on the art and skill of bringing music to life through choral conducting. Just as anyone else whose life is challenged by the convictions of the Christian faith, I seek to present again to God the talents He has given to me. Thank you for enabling me to do that more effectively.

Sincerely, Jessica Allen,

Chancel Choir Director, M. M. Choral Conducting, Choral Library Manager,
Chamber Choir Director, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan

United Methodist Women
Pat Mort, President


A Visit to Latvia

Carolyn Schuurmans

On Monday, October 13, at 1 p.m. the program, A Visit to Latvia with the Lions, will be presented by Sharon DeBarr. Sharon will explain slides of the Lions Club trip to distribute eyeglasses/cases in Latvia. Location: Mt. Hope United Methodist Church, 501 E. Mt. Hope, Lansing.

Conference Annual Meeting

The Conference Annual will be held Saturday, October 18, at Marshall United Methodist Church. The event is from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the cost for the day is $14. Lynn and Kay DeMoss will moderate a Mission Panel during the morning session. Registration forms are available on the UMW Board in Fellowship Hall. If you need a ride, please mark your request on the sign up sheet next to the registration forms.

Bolivian Crafts Sale
We were the lucky recipients of two suitcases full of beautiful woven fans to sell this past July and August. They came from “Tejiendo Esperanzas” (“Weaving Hopes”), the Women’s Society in the local Methodist Church near Peter and Estela Hudy’s home in Bolivia. The fans “sold like hotcakes!” We are glad to be able to help market these unique, lovely products, which bring much–needed income to the women and their families who live near the Rio Colorado School.

In September we offered new products: small nesting baskets with lids, placemats, coasters, etc. Samples of these items are available, with a catalog of all the items. You can order the items you want, and Peter will bring them along when he arrives before Christmas to join Estela and the boys for their furlough. If you have not had a chance to see and order what you might want, please stop by our table in Fellowship Hall after worship service by October 12.

UMW Opportunities

October 7 – Children’s March on the Capital – Lansing Central United Methodist Church
October 18 – West Michigan UMW Conference Celebration; 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Marshall United Methodist Church
October 20 – 21 – Mission School of the North – Gaylord United Methodist Church
January 3, 2004 – Epiphany Breakfast – Holt United Methodist Church February 7, 2004 – President/Pastor Event March 26 – 28 –North Central Jurisdictional – O’Hare Holiday Inn
April 2–3, 2004 – Spring Spiritual Renewal – Battle Creek – Outdoor Environmental Center
July 2004 – School of Christian Mission
September 2004 – Lansing District UMW Annual Meeting
October 16, 2004 – Conference Annual Meeting – Grand Rapids First United Methodist Church
October 18 – 19, 2004 – Mission School of the North – Gaylord United Methodist Church

Nursery Shower Thank You
Mary Bowers


The nursery parents and helpers want to thank everyone who brought in items for the “NURSERY SHOWER”. Your gifts will help in making this room a welcoming eper–ience for the children and for their families as well. If you missed the shower and still want to donate, here are a few more things that are needed. They do not have to be new!

Hamper (for used bedding & toys), shelf liner, CD player, laundry baskets, crates or larger storage totes (for storing larger toys and building sets), small package of the small and a small package of the medium disposable diapers, small package of “pull ups”, and baby doll clothes.

GO – SEE – DO
Carolyn Schuurmans


Midwest Mission Tour
October 13–18

The West Michigan Conference Hunger Committee of the United Methodist Church is organizing a trip to Indiana, Illinois, and Arkansas from October 13–18.

The tour includes visits to Church World Service, Midwest Heifer Project, Mid–West UMC Mission Distribution Center and a tour of Lincoln historical sites.

The cost is $475 which includes transportation, lodging, all meals, and activity fees. Call Carolyn Schuurmans, 321–0569.

Among Friends

Remember…

Dave Jessup – recovering at home
Gladys Gilson – at home
Natalie Lamphere – recovering at home
Ruth Norton – Jackson, near her daughter
Agnes Gamble – Flushing with her daughter
Ruth Graham – Burcham Health Center

Transitions...

Norma Mitchell died September 8 at age 93. Her memorial service was September 10 with the Rev. Frank Anderson officiating.

Congratulations...

Annalee Richardson and Mark V. Alexander were married at Central on September 13.

Jessica Fortier and Brian Lick were married at Central on September 20.

Joy Lynn, daughter of Pam Chamberlain and granddaughter of Chris and Marcy Carter was born August 30.

Baptism…

Grace Elizabeth Lindsay, daughter of Nathan and Jessica Lindsay on September 14.

Thank you...

....for all your cards, thoughts and prayers since Natalie's stay in the hospital. She is now recovering at home. Hopefully, she will soon regain her strength, as she is looking forward to rejoining all our friends at Central. May God bless you all.
–– Natalie & Ken Lamphere

....so much for the many expressions of sympathy shown me through the kind words, cards, calls, hugs and the prayers of Rev. McReynolds and Rev. Anderson on the recent death of my dear great–grandson, 7–year–old Jesse Cantwell. Central friends, your love and caring meant very much to my family and me at this difficult time.
––Ginny Cantwell

....again, to the church members and friends who helped us celebrate our golden wedding anniversary during the coffee hour on Sunday, June 29. One hundred twenty–seven friends signed our guest book, and we received many lovely notes and cards. We wish to thank the many friends who helped us with our party. They were Beth Murley, Jeanne and Robert Fowler, Arline Roe, Shirley Gingrich, Carolyn Schuurmans, and Leora Stutes.
––Earl and Martha Shirtum

Scripture for Life
Richard Bates

In this space we will feature a Bible verse that has had a particular impact on the life of one of our members.–Ed

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life”. –John 3:16

When I was asked to give a testimony about my faith, I wasn’t sure what to say. I know what a testimony is and it’s meaning. But, I have never written or spoken one before. After reading Mary Jessup’s message last month, anything I could say or write could not possibly be as eloquent. So, I had to give this a great deal of thought.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life”. Such a common verse. “John 3:16”. Almost everyone should know it. Yet, it has special meaning to me for many different reasons and on many different occasions.

The most common time for my using this verse comes through music. I can’t count how many times I have sung it. Sometimes with the choir; sometimes with one of my sons; several times in a duet with Linda. Each time I sang it, it meant more to me than the previous time. To think that a father could give up his son so that He could take the sins of countless sinners to the cross with Him. That is such an extreme sacrifice; it is un–imaginable.

When I was teaching and coaching in high school, I used to work with some Christian youth groups. Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Young Life come to mind. When we would have discussions or I had to give a message, John 3:16 always came up sometime during the discussions or message. I always tried to relate it to something that was very prevalent in their lives at the time. It is amazing how this passage can be related and reflected to so many common life experiences.

All of us at sometime has lost loved ones. Whatever the circumstances were for the loss, the sorrow and grieving were not easy to cope with. Regardless whether it was a sudden loss or a long–lingering illness, the loss of a loved one is difficult.

To know that a father deliberately gave his son to die for us! What a sacrifice. This is the reason I have given all my trust to Him. To do what He did for us, what better reason to put all your being in his hands and have Him do with us that which will please Him.

Central Collage Fellowship
Faye McCracken


This fellowship group invites anyone who enjoys informal get togethers with people in the 50's and 60's (more or less) to come and join us. If you don't have a fellowship group, please do not let the age criteria be a factor. Please plan ahead and put the following dates on your calendar:

October 17 – 5:45 p.m., a light dinner hosted by the McCrackens followed by a Ten pound Fiddle Concert featuring the Barachois, a high–energy folk music group from Prince Edward Island. The Barachois willl be at MSU Kiva Auditorium at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15. Money for reservations is needed to reserve your place. Contact and pay Mary or Doug Bowers, 484–1593.

November 15 – 7 p.m., game night at the home of Dave and Sue Mills in Mason. Bring your favorite snack; drinks will be provided.

December 14 – Caroling; more information later.

Fellowship Hour help


Sign–up sheets for Coffee Hour volunteers are posted on the large bulletin board in Fellowship Hall. There is a sheet for each month through December 2003. Please choose a time when you can set–up and serve or bring cookies. When you sign–up remember to note it on your own calendar. You will get a reminder call from Ginny Cantwell.

Please volunteer so that those who have been providing this service for a long time will have some help. This is not a difficult task, but more people need to make a commitment to help with refreshments if we are to continue it as part of our Fellowship Hour. If you have questions, contact Beth Murley, 482–4700

New Time for Ad–Council


Please note that the Administrative Council now meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the 2nd floor Conference Room. This is a change from 7:30 p.m.

Support needed for: Bishop’s Initiative on Children and Poverty
Joanne Harvey, Kayla Tipton,Church and Society Commission


All Central members are invited to hear Bishop Linda Lee speak in Central's sanctuary at 3 p.m., Tuesday, October 7 as part of the Bishop’s Initiative on Children and Poverty. After her speech, there is a march to the Capitol at 3:30 p.m. Greeters for those coming from out of town are needed as well as volunteers to prepare and serve the simple meal after the march in Central's Fellowship Hall. Worship service with special speakers at Central at 7 p.m. Above all, we Centralites need to support this part of the state–wide effort with our presence. Volunteer with Pat Mort, Central's event chair.

“People in the Heart of Central”"


Our bulletin board in the hall between the Capitol lobby and the Library is still unused. Let's all add pictures and notes about those for whom we are concerned in order to share our news with others. Rejoicing, sorrow, apprehension for those at risk––all are appropriate messages to put on this board, with names, pictures and addresses.

Class: Issues facing the UMC


Beginning Sunday, October 19, a series of six classes on the General Conference Process and Issues, sponsored by the Church and Society Commission, will be held during the church school hour. Presenter information will be forthcoming.

Plan to attend and discover how we, as United Methodists, will make decisions at the 2004 General Conference that results in the Book of Discipline and Book of Resolution.

Invite a friend, welcome visitors
Mary Boudreau, Evangelism Commission

The Evangelism and Nurture Commission is charged with both nurturing current church members and encouraging continuing growth in our membership. We are enthusiastic about our congregation’s possibilities in both areas and want to share our plans and encourage EVERYONE’S involvement. There are a number of ways you can help:The Evangelism and Nurture Commission is charged with both nurturing current church members and encouraging continuing growth in our membership. We are enthusiastic about our congregation’s possibilities in both areas and want to share our plans and encourage EVERYONE’S involvement. There are a number of ways you can help:

Please continue to invite people to church and to be friendly and welcoming with all of our visitors. Invite your neighbors, relatives, friends, children, classmates, etc., and watch our church grow! God bless you!

An Introduction to Volunteers in Mission:

October 26 Potluck
Joi Tennant, Co–chair, Mission Commission


Our usual last–Sunday–of–the–month potluck ,“Loaves and Fishes”, will offer more in October than just good food and fellowship, which we always look forward to after Sunday School.

Duane Townley from Midland has been invited by the Mission Commission to present a slide program explaining the exciting work of Volunteers in Mission (VIM) and how we can be a part of this great world–wide service organization of the United Methodist Church. Most of the slides he will be showing will be from the recent trip to the Rio Colorado School in Bolivia in May of this year, which was an official VIM trip.

If you have ever considered sharing your skills, time and love to make the world a better place, even if you aren’t able to actually do this yourself at this time in your life, you will want to hear Duane’s presentation. Invite yourself and any other visionaries to take a look at this great way to add new meaning and purpose to life. Duane will explain all the details to us.

Remember to bring your own dishes and silverware and some kind of food to share with the rest of the folks who come. Beverages are furnished.

Sewing Circle still sewing
Dottie Stark


Thanks to each of you who helped move the sewing room items into the Tea Room mid–August. We are getting settled and planning to continue sewing each Thursday morning. The items we sew are made from new fabric and donated to various clothing banks in Lansing for use by needy children or for nursing home persons (items such as lap robes and wheel chair caddies).

We can NOT accept donations of additional material until the dining room and the entire lower level floor is completely repaired and replaced and things are moved back into our former sewing room, as we do not have any storage space. We have sufficient fabrics now to keep us busy. Thank you. Sewing group meets from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Tea Room.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS
Joyce Joranko


Our weather was very pleasant this summer in Michigan. However, we are aware that this was not the case in many other areas. The last report from France estimates a death toll from the summer heat at 15,000.

A recent study indicates that modern global warming is more damaging now when compared to the last climate fluctuations.

I often hear that the issue is so great that we can do nothing. I think that we can stay alert to the big and small ways that we can help. Michigan Christian Advocate writer, Ada Kidd, gives us advice: “Let's all make an effort to give this more attention in our daily life.”

Library Task Force
Win Anderson


The Ralph Goodell Memorial Library will have a mini book “sale” on Sunday mornings, October 5 and 12. Your response has been so good that we are again offering books of varying interests. Donations will be used to purchase new items for the library.

Thanks to those who helped during the repair and redecorating of the library.

Please! Help needed! The library's overdue list of materials is getting longer. Have your finished your books and/or tapes?

CROP Walk/Rock – October 12
Carolyn Schuurmans


It’s time to plan to walk or rock in the annual CROP Walk Sunday, October 12. We will have a table Sunday in Fellowship Hall for sign up for the Walk/Rock. You can pick up an envelope and start getting pledges for your walk or rock, or you may make a pledge to someone. If you are not up to the walking, join the rockers at Grace UMC or Trinity A.M.E.

Twenty–five percent of the CROP walk funds are used locally for Advent House, the Food Bank and Garden Project, Harvest House, Potter Park Outreach, Southside Community Kitchen and Volunteers of America. The balance is used by Church World Service for international relief and development efforts, medical care and refugee resettlement. A current campaign by Church World Service and other groups is called All Our Children. They are working together to aid the children of Iraq who have suffered through war and international sanctions. Estimates of the number of children who have died range from 500,000 to more than 1 million. All Our Children is providing medicine, anesthesia and medical equipment, first aid, personal hygiene kits and blankets.

You can help by being a CROP walker, rocker, or pledger! There are “thank you” gifts for participants.


“Hudy Habit”and Homecoming
Joi Tennant, Carolyn Schuurmans, Co–chairs, Mission Commission


Thank you, faithful Hudy supporters, for all you have done to help shoulder the financial needs of the Rio Colorado School and Peter and Estela Hudy, who we proudly claim as our very own representatives and Christian disciples in Bolivia. October is one of our regular months for requesting offerings for the Hudys. (October 28 is Peter’s birthday. Estela’s was September 11.)

Estela, Benjamin, Jonatan (and nesting baby) will be arriving in mid–October to begin their furlough. Peter will come at the end of the school term, Dec. 22. Get ready to welcome them back in our midst, although they will be often out–and–about traveling all around the district speaking to many churches about their work. They will be living in their old home in Lansing. Estela will need some help with evening meals, and she will need rides around town. The boys will be enrolled in Allen Street School, as they will be here until the end of March.

Please look for the posted list of ways we can help ease their transition into life in Lansing. They will all need winter clothes, especially the boys. We are hoping to stock their refrigerator and then provide meals for a couple weeks after Estela and the boys arrive. Pat Mort has been coordinating these efforts. If you think of something you can offer, please talk to her about it.

Trustees progress
Susan Grettenberger and David DeVinney, Board of trustees


There’s always something happening at the church! Hopefully everyone knows that. Well, the trustees certainly do! As reported previously, the dining room floor was damaged by water that seeped in. While responsibility for the damage has yet to be fully established, our insurance company has agreed to assure that the damage is repaired. The floor will be removed carefully, to make sure no mold can spread to other parts of the building. Then the floor will be replaced. It is the trustees’ hope that there will be repairs to the damaged walls as part of the project. Please be patient if rooms are less available than normal. Pat Basgall is moving previously scheduled events around, and it can be a challenge. Also, while there is no definite timeline; don’t count on having the dining room back before the first of the year. We believe it will be beautiful when completed.

A temporary/permanent storage building will be placed outside the northwest exit of the Temple House for storage of the snow blower, lawn mower, salt, and other outdoor equipment and materials.

There seems to be some confusion regarding the costs associated with the north parking lot. There are two primary expenses. Maintenance is estimated to be about $1000 per year for our share of the lot. This is paid out of the general budget. The net cost to Central for the lease (which is functionally our purchase cost) is just over $2000 per year. The total will be about $45,000 over the life of the lease, after which the three churches (Capitol area Churches Coalition Corporation) will purchase the lot for $1. The trustees had begun to collect some contributions to cover the purchase (lease), and have made our payment for this coming year from those funds. We hope eventually to raise enough money to have the entire obligation in the bank so the purchase costs are not an additional cost in the annual budget. There may be additional costs entailed next year, if the Coalition undertakes to regrade the lot so it’s not so steep. The importance of regrading at this time is a commitment from the State parking ramp project to regrade the back part of the lot. The concern is that the present grade presents a hazard to both vehicles and pedestrians. Thanks to all of you who have contributed so far to this important investment in the church’s future!

We have discovered that there are termites in the building. They must be ecumenical as our neighbor churches are having problems. We are evaluating the extent of the problem and the best ways to eliminate the problem. We are also assessing the damage to the building and options for repairs. The congregation will get more information as it becomes available.

G.L.A.D.E.
Joyce Joranko


Last spring a rally was held and members were informed of progress on public transportation and mentoring issues. Over the summer, Spenser Piston, lead organizer of G.L.A.D.E., interviewed a number of Central's members to ascertain their community concerns. Marcy Carter and Anita Gamble are involved in this program.

CHRISTIAN SERVICES
Joyce Joranko


In the summer a special love gift was given to Christian Services. Central has been a member church for many years, and it is essential that we continue to support their many ministries. We received a letter of thanks for our generous gift of $480 and I would like to pass this thanks along to those who gave.

Benefit Concert for the Shalom Center
in the sanctuary of Central UMC

October 18, 7:30p.m.

Josh White, Jr

A master of vocal inflection and involvement, Josh White Jr. pushes the envelope and shows why he is considered one of the premiere vocalists and performers in roots music.

From folk to blues and jazz to spirituals, Josh shares a voice of empowerment from coast–to–coast.

Pat Madden–Roth
We are delighted that Pat will share an evocative slice of her wonderful singer–songwriter repertoire on this special evening. Twelve years with the popular trio “Second Opinion,” Pat continues to inspire peace & justice events with her beautiful, powerful alto voice.

Josh Casey Comedy & Juggling Show

Who says peace & justice groups can’t have fun? Josh Casey will get the audience involved right away with his smooth, spectacular juggling routines. Balls! Rings! Jokes! Don’t miss him.

SECOND CHANCE SUNDAY
OCTOBER 5
David Mills


This drive to raise the money needed to continue our radio ministry and to pay our apportionments is part of the Renewal Initiative taking place in our church. The Renewal Initiative will also include a Spiritual Revival Weekend on November 7, 8, and 9, a pledge drive for the 2004 budget to be held in early November, and a Miracle Sunday in May of 2004 to raise money for our church repairs and renovations.

The kick–off for our Second Chance Sunday was a potluck held Sunday, September 21. The potluck featured music by our youth and presentations on the radio ministry and on how apportionments are used. Our Sunday, October 5, service will conclude this effort and will feature a sermon by Kent McNish. Members can contribute by sending a check to the church office or by placing it in the offering any Sunday up to and including October 12. The check should be marked Second Chance, and you may designate your offering to either apportionments or the radio ministry. Gifts without a designation will be divided 80% for apportionments and 20% for radio ministry (the relative size of the two budgets).

The birth, life, death, and resurrection of Christ was God’s gift of a second change to all. We ask for your prayerful consideration of a second chance gift so these two powerful and needed programs can continue to do God’s work at Central, in Lansing, in Michigan, and in the world.

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