Central
Journal . . . electronic edition
September, 2004
Keeping Members and Friends Informed
Promoting
Fellowship
Contributing to Spiritual
Growth
“Celebrate with Central”
Saturday evening, September 25
Sunday morning, September 26
Bryan Haltar
Communications, Renewal Initiative
Where we've been—Where we are—Where we're going! You're invited to CELEBRATE WITH CENTRAL the weekend of September 25 and 26, as we reminisce over our distinguished heritage, recognize those behind our current ministries and look toward a future of still greater Christian service. Our former pastors have all been invited to join us as well.
Although Central's roots extend back to 1850, it was on September 25, 1882, that the final step was taken leading to the stately brownstone structure that today is the Sanctuary of Central United Methodist Church. On that date, the Official Board authorized a pledge campaign to cover the cost of the lot on which the building now stands.
The weekend of September 25 is, indeed, a time to celebrate! And, the decision to stay the course all these years in our downtown location, despite no end of obstacles, is worthy of celebration in its own right! The theme for the new church year is “Gifting us for Ministry,” and nowhere does it better apply than during our Celebration weekend, as we look back at what our predecessors have provided in “time, talent, gifts and service”—as we honor the work being done every day by Central's current members and friends—and as we focus on the ministries of years to come.
CELEBRATE WITH CENTRAL kicks off at 5 p.m. Saturday, September 25, with a joyful service in the Sanctuary. Speaking on The Joy of Living will be Dr.Peter Mitchell, President of Albion College. Dr. Mitchell is known to many members and residents of the area in whose lives Albion College has played an important part. He is a recipient of three Philip A. Hart Award for Advocacy for Women, a Knight Foundation Presidential Leadership Award, and he has served on the board of the National Association of Colleges and Schools of the United Methodist Church.
A special “interactive” program of lively and uplifting music has been planned by Central's own Bill Tennant. Our youths will open “Gift” boxes representing various ministries of the church such as the Thursday Fellowship Lunch, the Food Bank, housing of the Shalom Center for Peace and Justice, the Open Door Ministry and the Ministry of Kindness. Then the young people will lead a parade downstairs to a time of Fun, Food and Fellowship. The cost of the meal has been contributed by a group of generous members. Child care will be available during both the service and meal.
Then on Sunday, September 26, the regular morning worship will again feature Dr. Mitchell, speaking on The Joy of Giving—the stewardship giving of our energy, our time, our talents and whatever it takes to make Central's ministries come alive, and remain alive. Special music will make this time of further celebration even more meaningful.
Yes, there's much to celebrate—the basic Freedom of Religion our nation offers, allowing worship to proceed unimpeded, our ministries, the ability to respond to the physical needs of our building from the roof overhead to the very “firm foundation” beneath the dining room floor. We're even celebrating the completion of the Capitol Loop Project in front of our building as well, the restoration of our parking lot and the newly available weekend parking space in the Roosevelt ramp at the corner of Seymour and Ionia.
Won't you plan to celebrate the story of Central with your friends the last weekend of September? Please let us know of your participation by making a reservation by phone to the church office, or by signing up in Fellowship Hall no later than September 21. You're what it's all about!
a Renewal Initiative event
Fables, parables, and stories often help us see things with new insight; here’s one that I’ve written. I hope you’ll enjoy it. – Rev. Rob Nystrom
A man wanted to become the disciple of a great teacher so he went to the master and said, “I am here in hopes of becoming your disciple.” The teacher replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.” The man left in search of one of life’s greatest truths. He carefully observed the wonders of nature hoping to discover a great truth, and saw many things that he had never seen before. Finally, after many days, the man returned and said, “One of the very greatest truths in life is that the sun rises faithfully every morning.” The teacher calmly replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.”
Disappointed, the man left. After some reflection he decided that he should look for the greatest truths among people, so he spent many hours watching people, listening carefully and asking them questions. He visited the sick, he helped the poor, he talked with parents and with children, he asked lovers of their joy and celebrated at weddings, and his heart was deeply touched at a neighbor’s funeral. All this he did in search of one of the greatest of life’s truths. Finally, after several weeks, the man returned and said, “One of the greatest truths in life is that love is priceless, and people need love as much as anything in the world.” The teacher calmly replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.”
Frustrated the man left, and after some consideration he decided that he should search the Holy Scriptures for the greatest truths in life. He read the scriptures each morning when he rose, and he read them every evening before bed. He learned about God and he studied the history of his faith. The stories were interesting, but it seemed that every great hero also at times failed a test of faith. The man was deeply puzzled until he suddenly realized something very important. With great excitement he hurried to the wise teacher and said, “One of the greatest truths of life is that humanity must learn from the wisdom of our ancestors and also from the mistakes of the past.” But once again the great teacher replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.”
The man then decided that the greatest truths must be within the soul. He prayed fervently at least three times a day, he fasted a day each week and tithed to the house of worship. He meditated on the Scriptures and tried to relate them to his life. For the first time in his life the man really felt close to God. He quickly returned to the teacher and said, “One of the greatest truths in life is that to know one’s self one must also know the Creator.” But once again the great teacher calmly replied, “Go, and return when you have learned one of the very greatest truths of life, and you will be my disciple.”
Exasperated, the man said, “I could keep learning all my life and never discover one of the greatest truths of life. When can I be your disciple?” The teacher replied, “You have been my disciple, and you have discovered many of the greatest truths of life. I send all my disciples out in search of truth, and yes, you must keep learning all of your life.”
EDUCATION
Rev. Rob Nystrom, Minister of Education
Christian Education Fall Kick–Off
Our fall Christian Education program kicks off on Sunday, September 12th with Sunday School classes for all ages.
For Children and Youth:
K–5 – Balcony classroom
A one room schoolhouse approach with stories, crafts and video resources.
Middle School – Skylight Room
“Reel to Real” video curriculum. Popular movie clips highlight issues of faith for today’s youth.
Sr. High – The Loft
By popular demand, Cokesbury’s “Reel to Real” series will set the stage for discussion of faith issues facing our youth.
For Lifelong learning:
Membership Class – Rev. Russell McReynolds- Beginning September 12 for eight weeks
Thru the Bible – Dale Kirkby – Second floor Conference Room – The Genesis to Revelation class will begin a 13–week study of the Psalms. Join us as we explore these hymns of praise, thanksgiving, lament and wisdom that have been such an important part of worship for centuries.
Coffeehour – 1st Floor Lounge – Informal gathering and discussion
New: Meeting in the Library will be a video series: The Hermitage Museum. This series explores the Christian art of one of the world’s finest museums. Gain insight, understanding, and appreciation of the works of the masters.
Sunday Vesper Class – Keith Pohl – Sunday evening 5:30 to 7 p.m.
We will read, study, and discuss the book, A Layman's Guide to Protestant Theology, an historical theological presentation of Protestant roots and its variety of theological branches by William E. Hordern
Thank You
A sincere thanks to our outgoing youth counselors: Cody Kirkby, Nancy O’Shea, and Bob Pena for their dedicated help with our youth. We ask God’s blessing on your new frontiers and endeavors.
Youth Counselors needed
If you have a heart for youth ministry let us know. We are currently looking for persons to help in this important program ministry at Central.
Youth News
Let’s Get It Started – Youth Group
Our youth group season will kick–off with a beach party on Sunday, September 12. We will gather at Lake Lansing South Park on Marsh Rd. from 5:30 – 7 p.m. for a BBQ, fellowship and recreation. For those needing a ride: the Central Church van will provide transportation from the church at 5 p.m., and a return trip home afterward.
What’s this news?
A Sunday morning class in the Library?
Ed Spink, Ralph Goodell Memorial Library task force
Yes. A Sunday morning elective September 12 through October 10. Join Sally Swiss as you explore one of the world’s greatest museums, the Hermitage, in St. Petersburg, Russia. This former palace of czars and empresses, with its magnificent architecture, is home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts.
The sessions will feature the videotape series Hermitage Masterpieces generously donated to the library by a member of Central. The tapes will be available to check out at the end of the elective.
Join Sally Swiss for an exciting look at the collection of the Hermitage.
MusicNotes
Caryn Welter, Music Director
Welcome to the new program year, musicians!
The music staff has worked diligently to prepare for 2004–2005, and looks eagerly forward to seeing each and every one of you – adults, youth, and children. Rehearsals for the Spirit Singers will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 9; the Chancel Choir's first meeting will also be on September 9, at 7:30 p.m. Both groups will sing in worship on September 12. Children and Youth choral groups will convene for the first time on Sunday, September 12, after worship. The Wesley Choristers will meet at 11:00 a.m., and the Youth Musical Group will gather at 11:40 a.m.
Tentative schedule for Wesley Choristers' and Youth Musical Group's
participation in worship:
9/26 – Wesley Choristers
10/10 – Wesley Choristers and Youth
10/24 – Youth
11/14 – Youth
11/21 – Wesley Choristers
(11/28 – NO CHOIRS MEET TODAY)
12/05 – Wesley Choristers
12/19 – Wesley Choristers and Youth
(Both groups will rehearse before church, but not after).
(12/26 – NO CHOIRS MEET TODAY)
On Sundays when only the Wesley Choristers or Youth sing, they will rehearse in the sanctuary at 9:00 a.m. When both groups sing, the Youth will rehearse at 9:00 a.m., and the Wesley Choristers will rehearse at 9:10 a.m.
Join the church choir...
The brilliant Christian psychiatrist, Dr. Walter Menninger, said that singing in a church choir was very helpful to him. After an exhausting day at work, he found it inspirational and soothing to go to choir practice at his church. The music enabled him to put the stress of his day behind him, get in touch with something beautiful and holy, and end the day relaxed and uplifted.
Ask a choir member what singing in a choir does for him or her. It's very likely that you'll find he or she gets great joy in serving the Lord through singing. And remember, also, there is wonderful fellowship among choir members. Singing in a choir is a good way to make new friends. Try it.
Camp can be a new day for kids
Bob Pena,
David DeVinney
Camp New Day was started eight years ago by Chuck Wilson from Kalamazoo First UMC. The camp provides a wonderful Christian camping experience for young campers of incarcerated parents.
A couple weeks ago we picked up three young people from Lansing and Ionia to take them to Albright camp. Anton was happy to discover that the other two campers were girls. Chacora had been to camp New Day before and liked to sing. She finally agreed to teach us two or three songs she learned at church. Kimberly was quiet and shy – this would be her first time at camp.
We arrived at Albright UMC Camp near Reed City where the children were welcomed with open arms. The railing of a large deck outside the arts and crafts building, where campers were engaged in making their name tags, was full of dozens of colorful blankets from which campers could choose one for themselves. Soon, our three campers were each talking excitedly with new found friends.
We were invited to stay for dinner and got to hear camp orientation from the camp manager and the dean. Albright Camp was slated to be sold or mothballed a few years ago. Now it’s expanded facilities again provide a place away for kids to discover God and a new day.
Praise God that such a wonderful opportunity exists. If you know of a young person who might be eligible for this camping experience contact Chris Bobier of Open Door Ministry.
UnitedMethodist Women
Pat Mort, President>
There’s ALWAYS something happening in UMW! Here’s the fall schedule:
September's Mission Team meets Tuesday, September 7 and the October meeting is Wednesday, September 29, both at 6:30 p.m. in the 1st Floor Lounge.
Hope you're reading The Red Tent in preparation for September's Chalice Chicks! Watch for date and time.
Wednesday, September 15, Lansing District Annual Meeting will be called to order at Lake Odessa Central UMC. Registration forms will be available in August. Our theme this year is “A Beacon for 135 Years”. This is a DAY meeting – hope you can come! Bring along your pop tabs, items for Community House (see list of needed items on UMW Board in Fellowship Hall), a desire to fellowship with other UMW members and a thirst for knowledge! Rev. Molly Turner is our speaker.
Saturday, October 2 – mark it down now and plan to attend! We will have an Autumn Tea at 2 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. This event is open to all women and girls of Central – and your friends. Watch for more details!
Saturday, October 16 is Conference Annual at Frankfort. Check the UMW Board for fliers closer to the date.
November is our Thank Offering Month. Plan now to give back in thanks and gratitude.
December 7 is our Christmas by Candlelight. Put it on your calendar now and plan to come. Details forthcoming!
Welcome Bill and Zacharia
Bill Lansing of Central and Zacharia Akol from Sudan, affiliated with St. Paul’s, have assumed responsibilities as our new Building Attendants. These young men will occupy our newly renovated apartment. Please introduce yourself and get to know these fine young men.
Calling all Centralniters!
We’ll begin the 2004–2005 season with a potluck in the Dining Room Sunday, September 19, at 12:15 p. m. Meat and beverage will be furnished; a small contribution requested. Leave your phone or e–mail reservation (321–0945, harveyft1@webtv.net) with Ken and Joanne Harvey. Let’s catch up on our summer news! – Joanne Harvey
Church Women United
will meet Monday, September 13, at 1 p.m. at North Presbyterian Church, 108 W. Grand River Avenue at Washington Avenue. The program is the downtown street ministry at Central UMC.
Cris Bobier is the speaker and will moderate a panel: Arline Roe, Justin Sleight, Dave Schuurmans, and Joyce Joranko. They will tell about the history of the ministry and the parts they play in it. Everyone welcome!
–Carolyn Schuurmans
There is a wonderful way to remember or honor a loved one. Few of us have the need for more material gifts, so spread God’s Word by sponsoring a Sunday morning broadcast and include those at home or in the hospital as part of our Sunday morning worship.
Coffee Hour
Alice Pifer, Fellowship Coffee Hour
Fall is rapidly approaching and I have few volunteers for September and October. What does your schedule look like? Can you sign up to work Fellowship Coffee Hour?
There have been a few members who have signed up in advance to work one Sunday each month for several months in a row. Would your schedule permit the same kind of commitment? Or maybe every other month?
Check out the bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall and sign up for the Sunday(s) of your choice or call me at 694–0686.
Among Friends
Remember...
At press time...
Don Ambrose at home
Dick Bates at home
Bob Ebersole at home
Margaret Ebersole at Great Lakes Center
Maxine Jones at home
Lee Moore at home
Joe O’Shea at home
Lulu Smith at home
Margaret Woolcocks at Tendercare West
Baptism…
Grandchildren of Jon Reynolds: Lyda Gail Keefer,daughter of Robert and Laura Keefer, Sam Landis Stewart and Max Robert Stewart, sons of Robert and Kelly Stewart, were baptized August 13.
Aaron Witt, Jr., son or Aaron and Melissa Witt was baptized August 22.
Congratulations…
Nicole Pifer and Timothy Leible were married July 3. Nicole is the daughter of Steve and Mary Beth Pifer and the niece of Alice Pifer.
Transitions…
Marge Bartlett, wife of Dr. Frank Bartlett, died in July. Dr. Bartlett was a former organist and choir director at Central. Condolences may be sent to: Dr. Frank Bartlett, 3304 Vinsetta Blvd., Royal Oak, MI 48073.
John Hunnell Sr.died August 20 with a memorial service August 24.
Men’s Bible Study
Frank Anderson>
Having been in recess since May, our Men’s Bible Study Group will resume meeting on Tuesday, September 7, at 9 a.m. in the Second Floor Lounge. Any and all men are cordially invited to be a part of this group. The group meets the first, third, and fifth Tuesday of each month September through May. Meetings end promptly in one hour.
ELDERBERRYS ANTICIPATE FALL
On Tuesday morning, September 14, Elderberrys will resume their morn-ing monthly meetings at 10:30 a.m. Any and all adults in their retirement years or preparing for same, are invited and welcome to attend with us. We meet in the Dining Room, beginning with a program of vital interest, or entertainment, and then have lunch together around the tables as provided by Meals on Wheels of the Tri-County Office of Aging.
The program on September 14 will deal with the new Policies of Admission and Churches’ Ministries at Sparrow Health System here in Lansing. The Rev. Senia J. Taipale, Chaplain and Director of Pastoral Care for the Hospital, will be our guest speaker to start off our fall ministries for adults here at Central UMC. Reservations may be made in Fellowship Hall the two preceding Sunday mornings, September 9 and 12, or by phoning the Church Office.
– F.F.A.
Hot lunches and backpacks
Carolyn Schuurmans, Co-chair, Missions Commission
Thanks to everyone who contributed to the lunch sacks on Noisy Sunday. We received enough money for over 1200 Haiti hot lunches and over $400 for the street ministry!
Central received an award for outstanding second-lane giving to missions at West Michigan Annual Conference. This is the result of your generous support of the Hudy family in Bolivia. You can see the award in the Temple House hall showcase. It was a joy to have the Hudys and their new baby with us for a short time. We sent them off with lots of equipment for Rio Colorado School, plus over 100 backpacks made by Central women. Thanks to all who worked on that project. The Bolivian children will love having their own backpacks - many have to walk a long distance to school.
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