Newsletter December 2012
Newsletter December 2012
Newsletter December 2012
I drove home from a church meeting last night in a terrible fog. From the parking lot to the road, I couldnt see where the church driveway was. I decided to take business 151 to highway 151 because I thought it would be the safest route. I couldnt see the on-ramp until I was right in front of it. Once on the highway, I had trouble seeing Maple Ridge Road. On Maple Ridge, I wondered if I had taken a wrong turn because you can usually see the light on Dans shed as soon as you turn. I kept driving and kept driving, wondering if I had driven passed my house. I finally saw the light on Dans shed when I was right in front of it. I was grateful to make it home safe, and noticed that I could hear the cars and trucks traveling down highway 151, but I could barely see their lights, and I live very close to the highway! The weather report said that we had zero visibility. You could only see just in front of you. Verse 105 of Psalm 119 says, Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. The lamp the Bible refers to is an oil lamp with a single wick. It would have given off the same amount of light as a candle. In the darkness, a candle will only let you see what is right in front of you. This verse is from the Old Testament and refers to scripture. It was written hundreds of years before Jesus was born. It is helpful that the Bible gives us light to see right in front of us, but we have an even better light! John, best friend of Jesus said, [Jesus] brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness can never overcome it (John 1:4b-5). With Jesus, no matter what choices we have made or what circumstances have affected our lives, we do not need to live in a dark fog. Jesus shines his light of love and we are able to see our purpose clearly. We have entered into advent, the time when we anticipate this light shining deeply into our lives. I hope that we have learned from our Advent Conspiracy and are trying to worship fully, spend less, give more and love all. As we focus on Jesus, may we live into his light. This Christmas, I wish you the light of Jesus, to light up your life more than ever before. Ill see you in church, where we let his light shine!
2 2 2 3
U M WOMEN
MUSIC MINISTRY 4
B IRTHDAYS & A NNIVERSARIES 5
7 7 8 10
11
NOTE FROM THE 11 OFFICE 3 MONTH TITHE CHALLENGE FINANCE MISSION COMMITTEE HEALTH & WELLNESS CHILDRENS MINISTRY 12 13 14 14 15
P AGE 2
For over 130+ years, the UMW, under several name changes, has been actively involved in mission work with women, children and youth. The members have faithfully kept that goal at forefront through the years, locally, nationally and internationally. Through their meetings, the women get to know one another really well, make new friends and have fun as they share their many ideas and thoughts. They become informed about world issues through themes in their programs and reading program. Being a member has changed the lives of many women as they learn about these issues and have bible studies that help them better relate to family, friends and others. It happens so quietly and easily that they do not realize it is happening as they grow in their faith journey and relationship with others in mission. They develop leadership skills and some have become deaconesses, missionaries, and pastors. UMW IS MISSON. Why not become a UMW member and be a part of this great group of women? Why not share YOUR talents with them and also help start some new small groups to further mission?
Barely Seniors
Barely Seniors will meet on Thursday, December 13 at 12:00 pm in the fellowship hall with a potluck lunch and program. Table service and beverages are provided. Seniors are asked to bring a dish to pass. The program will be, Carol Lange will lead us in a "Christmas Sing-A-Long" She will share interesting facts about the origins of some of our favorite hymns
Gift Exchange:
A gift exchange will be held after the program. Please bring a wrapped gift($5 or less) with a W marked for woman or a M for man
Bring a friend!
V OLUME 1, I SSUE 1
P AGE 3
Christmas Bazaar
Mark your calendars for the annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, December 1. Early coffee and rolls begin at 8AM, with the crafts and "goodies" area opening at 9AM. Lunch -- turkey dressing sandwiches, BBQs, salads, desserts and beverages -- will be served from 11AM1PM.
Office Hours
9:00 a.m.4:00 p.m.; Monday-Friday
Contact Information
Office: 608-348-9508 Fax: 608-348-9509 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.plattevilleumc.org
Pastor
The Cap Club met on Nov. 6th. Members present were Pastor Brenda, Jim & Carol Kirkpatrick, Dolores Hutchenson, Tom Ziegenfuss, Hank & Judy Bossenbroek. We were sadden to report that we have lost so many of our friends we have been visiting. We continue to visit with many of our other friends and with everyone's help we can add to our list more people that would like to have a visit from our members. Our prayers go out to the family of Frank Nimocks who passed away on Nov 10th. Our next meeting will be Dec 4th. Blessing to all. The Cap Club Rev. Brenda Whitford [email protected] 608-482-0021
Administrative Assistant
Jennifer Fiedler [email protected]
Business Manager
Amy Loeffelholz [email protected]
Home Alone for Christmas? The annual Home Alone for Christmas dinner will be at Lutheran Church of Peace on Christmas day. Sign-up sheets for volunteers and donations will be available soon in the Narthex. Our representatives will be Carol Lange, Marion & Norenne Masbruch.
P AGE 4
MUSIC MINISTRY
Poinsettias
Would you like to order a poinsettia to share with the church this Christmas? Plants can be given in honor or in memory of someone important in your life. The plants can be ordered in red or white, and will come with foil wrap and with a bow. The cost for each plant is $13.50. You may pick up your poinsettia following Christmas Day Worship. Please fill out and return this form to the church office by December 10th. Name _______________________________________________________________________ Plants given in honor / in memory of _______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Total number of poinsettas: ________ Color of poinsettas: _______red_________white Total Cost ($13.50 per plant) _________________ (checks made out to PUMC)
V OLUME 1, I SSUE 1
P AGE 5
Special thanks to the money counters, Rita Elver, John Ambrosius, Mary June Rewey, Katie Cottingham and Ellen Carnahan. Your help is deeply appreciated. Norma Meisel, Financial Secretary In October, we welcomed two new families to our congregation. Pete & Lisa Mumm, Morgan, Nathan & Trenton Chad & Amy Pohle, Autumn & Zachary Congratulations to Amber & Christophe Vrielinck, who welcomed a baby boy, Eli Thomas, on November 23rd.
The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other. ~Burton Hillis
P AGE 6
Help paint the wooden toys that members of our congregation make each year. Help others who cant afford to buy gifts for their children Build relationships with others in the community through painting together. Painting will help reduce your stress & turn this holiday season into an Advent Season. Classes will start Tuesday, November 13th and go through December 18th. Time will be Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come to all classes, come to one, come for 2 hours or come for just one hour, just come. Help yourself by helping others. Reduce the stresses in your life through opening up your creative side. Classes will be in the 2nd and 3rd grade classroom (downstairs in the church). Have items to paint for the upcoming Bazaar? Have something else you want to paint?
Come do it with our painting group. All are welcome. All ages are encouraged. No prior painting experience necessary. Have extra paint? Extra paint supplies? Donate them to The Christmas Toy Painting Shop.
V OLUME 1, I SSUE 1
P AGE 7
CAMPUS MINISTRY
Thank you to all who came and supported the College Students in raising money to go to Atlanta Georgia during winter break. We served a lot of pancakes, and loved sharing our quirkiness through music. We were able to raise over $1000 towards our trip! In January, 12 of our college students will be going to Atlanta Georgia to Passion Conference. This is a conference for solely college students, and focuses on social justice. If you would like to help by donating, our next fundraiser is Dec. 8th. We will be having a game afternoon at Whig UMC. There is a suggested donation of $10, and we will be having a bake sale at the same time. Please join us if you can from 1-4pm on the 8th! If you are unable to come, and would still like to help the students, we would very much appreciate any donation. Thanks again
Sun
Mon
Tue
DECEMBER 2012
2
Worship 8:30 am Sunday School 9:45 am Worship 11:00 am Youth Group 4:30 pm
3
Breakfast Prayer Group @ Country Kitchen 6:45 am Yoga w/Val 5:15 pm Church Council 5:30 pm Cub Scouts 6:00 pm
4
CAP Club 10:00 am Yoga w/Val 4:15 pm Cub Scouts 6:00 pm Memorials 7:00 pm
9
Come & See Choir 8:00am Worship 8:30 am Sunday School 9:45 am Worship 11:00 am CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS PROGRAM Youth Group 4:30 pm Mallow Ringers 6:00 pm
10
Breakfast Prayer Group @ Country Kitchen 6:45 am Yoga w/Val 5:15 pm Cub Scouts 6:00 pm Finance 6:30 pm
11
Nurture Cmte 2:00 pm Yoga w/Val 4:15 pm Missions 5:00 pm Cub Scouts 6:00 pm
16
MUSIC SUNDAY
17
Breakfast Prayer Group @ Country Kitchen 6:45 am Yoga w/Val 5:15 pm
18
Yoga w/Val 4:15 pm
Worship 8:30 am Sunday School 9:45 am Worship 11:00 am Youth Group 4:30 pm
23
Worship 8:30 am Sunday School 9:45 am Worship 11:00 am
24
Office Closed 5:00 pm Family Service 10:00 pm Traditional Service
25
Office Closed
MERRY CHRISTMA
Wed
Thu
Fri
1
Sat
5
Bible Study 7:30 am Hearts & Hands 1:00pm Worship Cmte 6:00 pm Redeemer 6:30 am Holy Rollers 7:00 pm
6
Dance Elite 3:30 pm Yoga w/Val 4:15 pm Cub Scouts 6:30 pm Recovery Group 7:30 pm
8
Campus Ministry Game Night Fundraiser at Whig UMC 1-4pm
12
Bible Study 7:30 am Hearts & Hands 1:00pm Confirmation 6:00 pm Redeemer 6:30 am Holy Rollers 7:00 pm
13
Barely Seniors 12:00 pm Dance Elite 3:30 pm Yoga w/Val 4:15 pm Pack 89 Meeting 5:00 pm Recovery Group 7:30 pm
14
Newsletter Deadline
15
19
Bible Study 7:30 am Hearts & Hands 1:00pm Redeemer 6:30 am Holy Rollers 7:00 pm
20
Newsletter Assembled 12:00 pm Dance Elite 3:30 pm Yoga w/Val 4:15 pm Pack 89 Meeting 5:00 pm Recovery Group 7:30 pm
21
22
pm
26
Hearts & Hands 1:00pm Yoga w/Val 5:15 pm
27
Dance Elite 3:30 pm Yoga w/Val 4:15 pm Recovery Group 7:30 pm
28
29
P AGE 10
Usher Schedule
8:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. December 2 December 9 December 16 December 23 December 24 December 30 John Meisel Dan & Deb Dunbar 8:30 a.m. Roger & Rita Elver 11:00 a.m. Eleanor Noble 8:30 a.m. OPEN 11:00 a.m. Jason & Jennifer Fiedler 8:30 a.m. Teddy McNett 11:00 a.m. Dale Griffith 8:30 a.m. Randy Karsten 11:00 a.m. Kyle James 5:00 pm 8:30 am 11:00 am Doug & Kathy Martin Joe Witmer Doris Tatge Bailie Family
(Christmas Eve) 10:00 pm
December 2nd
Advent Conspiracy: Love All Matthew 25:31-46 Communion Both Services 8:30 Mallow Ringers 11:00 Blind Faith
Greeters Schedule
December 9th
8:30 The Cost of Carrying the Christ Luke 1:26-38 Come And Sing Choir Special Music: Becky Demarree 11:00 Childrens Christmas Program Blind Faith
December 16th
Music Sunday!
December 23rd
The Advent of Signs and Wonders (variety of texts) 8:30 special music TBD 11:00 Blind Faith ***Special Music is being planned for 8:30 worship for each Sunday. Be sure to come to church each week to see what is offered to the glory of God!!
Readers Schedule
December 2 December 9 December 16 December 23 December 24 December 30 8:30 a.m. Carol Lange 11:00 a.m. OPEN 8:30 a.m. OPEN 11:00 a.m. Christmas Program 8:30 a.m. Choirs/Bands 11:00 a.m. Choirs/Bands 8:30 a.m. Ellen Carnahan 11:00 a.m. Kyle James 5:00 pm 8:30 am 11:00 am OPEN Joe Witmer OPEN OPEN
(Christmas Eve) 10:00 pm
December 24
The deadline for the December newsletter will be on Friday, December 14. (this is a week early due to Christmas)
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chancel Update The chancel is near completion! The new carpet has been installed on the platform, the AV desk is in and all the new technology is in. A cleaning crew will be coming in to clean the sanctuary, carpets in the sanctuary, narthex and Wesley Room will be cleaned and the sanctuary will be painted.
You or a member of your family is hospitalized. You have a change of address, especially if you are going away for the winter. Your phone number has changed. Your email address has changed. Your board or committee changes a meeting date or time. Members of your family are students attending school away from home or are living at a different address
Weekly Announcements
Wednesday morning
Newsletters
3rd Friday of the month
Please have any articles to the office no later than Friday afternoon. This will ensure that your article will get in the newsletter. Dates are posted in the weekly announcements, newsletter and sent out by email.
Would you like to receive you newsletter electronically? If you would, please contact Jennifer in the church office.
FINANCE/STEWARDSHIP
We had a wonderful response for our Commitment Sunday! We had wonderful worship, a fantastic brunch, and a large number of pledge cards have been turned in. So far we have received 88 cards for a total pledge of $203,987 for 2013! Three families are taking the 3 month tithe challenge. A total of 9 families are tithing, three are working toward a tithe, and four are giving above a tithe! Praying for blessings for everybody! It is not too late to turn in your pledge card. There are extras available at the church. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. Malachi 3:10 Its not too late to sign up for the 3 month tithe challenge. Everything we have is a gift from God. The Bible asks us to put God first in our lives by giving our first and our best back to God, and he will bless the rest. This
first is the tithe, or tenth of our income. We return to the Lord 10% of what he's given us, because it belongs to him. God then makes sure we have enough. Because we want you to experience the growth of faith that comes from tithing, we offer the Three Month Tithe Challenge. In the Three Month Tithe Challenge, we commit to you that if you tithe for three months and God does not hold true to his promises of blessings, we will refund 100% of your tithe. Earlier this year, the Finance Committee proposed, and the Church Council approved, a budget that had a $10,000 deficit. Monies were added to the budget to support our pastor at a senior pastor level, as we had done before we had clergy couples, we added Mindy as program staff, and then increased ministry area budget items to reflect our growing programs. The challenge that we have is that giving so far this year has not made up all of the difference. Our giving through October is roughly $17,000 behind our budget. Apportionments have been paid at 100% through September. The Finance Committee has decided to put on hold apportionment payments for now, hopefully to be paid at the end of the year. You are encouraged to catch up on your pledge if you are behind. You are also welcome to give an end of the year gift to our operating expenses. All that we do to make disciples for Jesus Christ comes from our church budget. Thank you for your generosity in building the Kingdom of God in Platteville! In the November newsletter we stated that Finance Committee was trying to have the 2013 budget available for a vote during Charge Conference. Even with the tremendous response to Commitment Sunday, because of the ebb and flow of members and their giving, the number we anticipate for income in 2013 is too low for a budget that would be similar to this year. We are working hard, looking specifically at individual budget lines, to see where we can cut administrative spending so that we do not have to cut program or staff. We want to manage well the resources that our congregation entrusts to us. We therefore need more time before we are able to present the 2013 budget. If it seems like this page has bad financial news, it isnt necessarily so. We are experiencing the financial challenges of a GROWING church, not a dying one. Praise God!
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P AGE 14
MISSION COMMITTEE
Wesleyan Call: Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can. Adopted Families Thank you for your generous donations to the adopted families' Thanksgiving food baskets. The baskets were delivered on Tuesday before Thanksgiving. This year we are serving an even greater number of area families (12 families) who are having financial difficulty due to job loss, illness, etc. We will continue to collect food and offer Christmas gift ideas for these families until December 19. Please watch for the gift tags on the Christmas tree in the narthex. Thank you for reaching out to care for the community around us.
Hurricane Sandy Relief Seven flood buckets were delivered to the Conference office just in time to be shipped to Hurricane Sandy victims. The clean up for the hurricane disaster victims will continue for months. The mission committee will continue to collect and assemble cleaning buckets. Thank you for remembering our neighbors on the east coast. Thank you Wayne Simmons for the generous donation of Lands' End clothing for men, women and children. The clothes were folded, sorted and sent with the Grant County hurricane relief collection that left for the east coast this week. The children's clothing will be offered to our adopted families.
, V OLUME 1, I SSUE 1
P AGE 15
CHILDRENS MINISTRY
Our Sunday School student's "Water For Life" mission project has been an amazing success this fall. Our goal for the school year is to collect $2,300.00 to build a well in a small village in Liberia, Africa. Two months ago, that seemed like an impossible goal for a small group of school-age children! But after totaling up all of our offering money, and the collections from our special projects, we have already collected $838.34!!! That means we are now 1/3 of the way to our goal. All of our classes have had special fundraising programs this fall. The middle school students (4th-8th grades) sold bottled water, and collected $351.95. The PreK-1st class sponsored a coffee fellowship and bake sale in October and collected $104.00. In November our 2nd-3rd grade students sponsored a coffee fellowship and bake sale and raised $175.90. I can personally vouch for the fact that we have some fantastic bakers in our congregation!! We will continue to sponsor the coffee fellowship on the first Sunday of each month. Our 4th-5th grade class will be hosting the next fellowship on December 2. Thank you to all our dedicated teachers, to those parents who helped by contributing baked goods, to our special angel Carolyn Woodward who made the coffee for us, and to our generous congregation for supporting our children in this project. God has truly blessed us!
W E RE
ON THE WEB
If you would no longer like to receive this newsletter, please contact the church office to take your name off the mailing list. Thank you!
Sunday, December 9
8:30 amTraditional 11:00 am Childrens Christmas Program
Sunday, December 16
Music Sunday (both services)
Sunday, December 23
8:30 am Traditional 11:00 am Contemporary