Volume XLXII

May 2008

Number 5

A Message from the Minister – Prelude, Postlude and Attitude.  Worship begins with a Prelude that puts us into the proper attitude for worship and ends with a Postlude that puts us into the proper attitude to go forth from worship.  The dictionary defines both as: “A piece for solo organ, often improvised, played before, during, or after a religious service.”  Our Organist, Anne Ramsay, is a bit more prepared and practiced than that description would suggest, and we are fortunate to have such a pronounced and devoted talent to properly adjust our attitudes as we enter and depart from worship.

The Introit, from the Latin introitus,  means “entrance,” and marks our entrance into worship.  One of the Introits commonly used by our Chancel Choir encourages us to “Enter his house with thanksgiving, and courts with praise.”  The Call to Worship is God’s call to us and, since one call deserves another, we call back with a Prayer of Invocation (again, “Invoke” from the Latin invocarein meaning “to call”).  When I was a kid raging around the neighborhood with my siblings, my Mom used to call us to dinner with a big iron bell.  It’s ringing proclaimed, “Come to dinner!”  When we heard it we made a high-pitched response, “Coo, Coo,” which seemed to travel further than a common yell.  It was a call back saying, “We’re coming, put it on the table!”  God calls us to the banquet and we call back, “Feed me till I want no more!”

The term “Doxology” is derived from the Greek doxa, “glory” + logos, “word.”  With the Doxology we use words to give glory to God.  We customarily use two Doxologies in our order of worship.  The first is called the Gloria Patri, which proclaims: “Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost.”  The second Doxology, in some traditions referred to as “The Common Doxology,” is a reminder during our offering to “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.”

The Benediction, from the Latin benedicto, means “blessing.”  Perhaps the best known Benediction begins, “May the Lord bless you and keep you.”  It is also an Invocation—an Invocation of God’s blessing upon his people—except that where an Invocation begins worship, a Benediction concludes it.  In between are other elements of worship such as Prayers (including The Lord’s Prayer) Scripture Readings (often from both the Old and New Testaments), Offering (including Offertory Sentences & Prayers), and Hymns (including various Responses and Vocal Prompts).  Sometimes we insert liturgies such as those for Baptism, Communion and various Dedications.  Each liturgy has its own traditional elements, such as the Invitation, Prayer of Confession, Assurance of Pardon and Words of Institution for Holy Communion.

These ancient elements of worship connect us with a rich spiritual tradition and provide a ritual framework for our corporate devotion today.  Of course every now and again we depart from ancient traditions to fashion some new ones, like our annual “Questions from the Pew” service which provided the inspiration for this article.  Hopefully this little reminder of meanings and etymologies will help us better understand what we are doing when we gather for worship and why.  Raising Up a Family of Faith.  –Bill

In the Pulpit during May

May 4 – Rev. Schnell (Communion)

May 11 – Rev. Schnell (Mother’s Day)

May 18 – Rev. Schnell

May 25 – Rev. Horak

Worship Attendance

March 30 – 9:30 - 125; 11:00 - 115; Total – 240

April 6 – 9:30 – 146; 11:00 - 125; Total – 271

April 13 – 9:30 - 140; 11:00 - 162; Total – 302

April 20 – 9:30 - 163; 11:00 - 127; Total – 290

News of Members and Friends

First Time Visitors – (3-23) Sarah & Clark Case of Aurora  (4-6) Robert & Susanne Pfaff of Chagrin Falls; Tom & Shari Leslie of Northfield

Baptisms – Gracie June Douglas; Carmel Gizella Perez, daughter of Jay & Lisa Perez;

Aiden John Jackson

Births – Julia Ann Derecskey, great-granddaughter of Elaine Duncan;

Weddings – Jamie Nicole Pelphrey & Joseph Mezzina, Jr.;

Memorials – Mildred Kray, mother of Dennis Kray; Mary Piazza, grandmother of Russ Piazza;

Christopher Hogan, brother of Greg Hogan Sr.; Alla Lee Day; Dante Montini, uncle of Jeff Catalucci;

NEWS OF OUR MEMBERS…Did You Know?  For more details, see the bulletin board in Fellowship Hall.

Hunter Reed placed first in the Aurora Orchestra Association’s 10^th Annual Solo Competition.

Conner Bowen was a Webelos champion in the Cub Scout Pinewood Derby.

Brent Humbert made the Dean’s List for the Fall Quarter at The Ohio State University.

James Wallace placed third in the Aurora Orchestra Association’s 10^th Annual Solo Competition.

Julie and Brady Krebs participated in the Tackle the Tower stairclimbing event at Erieview Tower in Cleveland.

Jimmy Eavenson Jr. traveled with the Mount Union men’s tennis team to Hilton Head, SC.

Rachel Stover was a member of Aurora United’s girls U11A soccer team that won the division title.

Bradley Barnes made the Dean’s List for winter quarter at Otterbein College.

Lauren Bowen placed second in the Aurora Orchestra Association’s 10^th Annual Solo Competition.

 

Show Them You Care!  When you see people who are sad, lonely or grief-stricken, don’t just tell them you care—show them you care.  Ask how they are, listen to what they have to say, share the love of Jesus.  And if their need is great, encourage them to consider Stephen Ministry as a way to receive the transforming love and care of Jesus.  Show them you care and you can make a real difference in their lives.

 

3H PM.  Our last meeting of the year will be Thursday, May 14, 6:30-8:30 PM.  We will be sharing the last three chapters of our book as we knit away on our afghans and prayer shawls. ~ Kathleen Horak, 562-1930.

 

Congratulations – to Russ Post as he graduates from Hiram College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies.

 

Church Camp – will be held August 3 – 9 this year at Tar Hollow in the Hocking Hills.  Camper and Staff applications are available online at www.sfacamp.org (staff are particularly encouraged to apply early for limited openings).  The registration fee per camper is $195.00.  This fee covers all expenses including meals, snacks, drinks, crafts, t-shirt, camp photo, and yearbook.  Discount offers: A $20.00 discount is offered for each camper registered and paid-in-full by June 14.  A Sibling discount of $10.00 is offered each camper from the same family (brother, sister).  For more information contact Tina Brizius (614-475-0740).

 

The Portage County Medication Access Program assists qualifying residents in identifying the most cost effective means of securing their prescribed medications.  Many drug companies provide selected drugs at low or no cost to qualifying individuals but the documentation and paperwork is cumbersome.  MAP can help expedite the process.  Call 330/297-8770 for an appointment.

 

No Plastic Bags, Please.  If you bring paper to the recycling bins in plastic bags, please don’t throw the bags in.  Empty the paper into the bin and dispose of the bags elsewhere.  Plastic is not accepted by our recycler and contaminates the pick up.

 

Spring Rummage Sale!  Why not start your spring house cleaning now?  And, as you’re cleaning, remember the Women’s Guild Spring Rummage Sale.  The sale will be Wednesday, April 30, and Thursday, May 1.  Set-up will be Monday and Tuesday, April 28 and 29.  We can always use help with that.  You can start to put your donations on the stage in Fellowship Hall on Monday, April 14^th.  WE ALSO NEED PAPER BAGS!!  If you would like to volunteer or have any questions, call Joy Evans at 330-562-5663.

 

Church Pictures – The Bicentennial Committee is seeking any past or present photographs of the inside or outside of the church.  If you have any photographs that you are willing to share, please contact Mary Wallace at 330-562-2198 or drop them off in the Bicentennial mailbox at church.  We will make copies and return the originals back to you. Thank You

 

The Cleveland Foodbank:  Volunteers are invited for a rewarding evening of light physical labor and fellowship on Wednesday, May 14th.  We will be leaving church at 5 p.m. for a 6-8 p.m. scheduled work time (or meet us at the Foodbank.)  If you have never volunteered at the Foodbank, talk to anyone on the Missions committee or Rev. Horak and they'll fill you in on the positive feeling you come away with after just one evening.  Please call Cindy Hollo at 330-562-1810 or email her at tweetyhollo@yahoo.com  if you are interested in going or have any questions.

 

Decorating Items Needed for VBS – If you have any of the following items that can be used as decoration from June 16 – 20, 2008, please contact Jodie Fritinger at 330-995-3480.  Two lounge beach chairs; a beach umbrella; or a raft.

 

Board Meeting – The Church Board met on April 14^th and following is a brief summary. Moderator Jim Maulis challenged each church committee to set goals for the 08 calendar year and as part of those goals to keep in mind how they may help to obtain membership and attendance growth.

The Associate Moderator, Ann Womer Benjamin, reported that plans for the Bicentennial celebration in 09 are moving forward, with a birthday dinner being planned in November 09. The Bicentennial Committee will be seeking other members and groups to assist in the undertaking, which will kick off at the 4^th of July parade in 2009.

Jim Niebuhr, Treasurer, reported that year to date revenue is down approximately 12% of budget as of March 31, but this is in keeping with the “norm” of years past for this time of year.

Continuing a goal set in the latter part of last year following the fire drill, the Trustees sought Board approval on upgrading the fire alarm system in both the church and the Escape, bringing them up to the city code. The motion passed unanimously, authorizing the Trustees to enter into a contract with Emery Electric. This upgrade will be paid from the Maintenance Reserve account.

The Stewardship Committee, through Tom Siewiorek, reported on the updated Time and Talent sheet to be used for the 08 – 09 church year.  He also has endorsed a proposed Financial Review Committee to make any recommendations concerning the budget process of the church.  The Moderator will be appointing a committee to review the process and to make any recommendations to the Stewardship Committee and the Board.

The Christian Education Committee, as reported by Dotty Channel, currently has a search committee attempting to find the correct candidate for the Assistant to the Director of Christian Education and Youth.

Jimmy Eavenson, from Missions, reported that the upcoming Sinatra Night sponsored in part by the Fellowship Committee, will benefit Relay for Life.  The next Food Bank visit is scheduled for May 14^th.

Susan Piazza reported that the Fellowship Committee continues to have great success on their potluck dinners, open to anyone who may be interested, with the next dinner scheduled for May 6^th.  They are planning on having the church’s Annual Picnic on the church grounds this year due to a scheduling conflict at Sunny Lake Park.

Our Senior Pastor, Bill Schnell, reported that plans for an Eldercare Seminar on May 4^th continue to move forward.  This event will be open to the surrounding communities, assisting those who may be in need of options for senior care of loved ones, while serving as an outreach for The Church in Aurora.  Bill is also organizing a National Day of Prayer service at Town Hall on May 1^st.  Kevin Horak reported on the success of the recent Maundy Thursday service.  He also advised the Board that he will be attending a workshop at Robinson Memorial Hospital to help sharpen his skills in ministering to those hospitalized.

Toni Harris, our Christian Education and Youth Director, reported on the success of recent programs.  She is also finalizing plans for Senior Recognition, Promotion Sunday, a special puppet show for Mother’s Day, the upcoming Vacation Bible School, and Promiseland Drive-In.

A motion passed to change the Board’s meeting nights to the third Monday of every month at 7:00.  Please direct any questions to Jim Maulis.

 

Workcampers can help.  Need boxes or furniture moved about? Have closets to rearrange?  Have odd jobs youths can help you with?  Need extra childcare helpers?  Due to popular demand, the Workcampers will continue assisting church attendees on an as-needed basis.  Please contact Jenni Ticer at 330-995-9318 to set appointments.  Thank you!

 

Circle 3-H news – Our May luncheon and installation of officers will be held on May 2^nd at 11:30 AM at Christopher’s Bistro in Aurora.  The luncheon includes choice of three entrees, dessert, coffee or tea, tax and tip.  Cost will be $18.  Reservations are a must.  Call Marion Tarbell at 330-571-4500 no later than April 28^th.

 

An Evening with Frank Sinatra – Frank Sinatra is alive and well and will be singing for your listening and dancing pleasure on Saturday, April 26th.  If you have any questions contact Cindy Hollo at 330-562-1810 or email her at tweetyhollo@yahoo.com

 

Audio Tapes of our services are available in the top drawer on the chest next to the door in the library.

 

CHURCH LIBRARY:  Don Piper, the author of 90 Minutes in Heaven, has written Heaven is Real to further describe how his death and then return to life has transformed him.  Despite all the pain and disabilities he had to endure, he believes that it was God's grace that allowed him to cope, and to find purpose in all the suffering.

On the other side is Bart Ehrman's new book, God's Problem, in which his premise is that the Bible doesn't answer our questions on why we suffer here on earth, and that it is very contradictory on the subject.  These two books could give us fodder for an interesting discussion.

The Faith is for people who have been Christians for a long time, but aren't quite sure exactly what the basic truths of their religion are.  Charles Colson and Harold Fickett believe that we need to know enough to defend our faith in these critical times.

Why Mars & Venus Collide is John Gray's telling us once again that men and women are different.  We learned that in his book, Men are From Mars, Women are from Venus.  I still think that this could be a helpful book for many couples because it focuses on how they approach their stress and problems so differently.

We've been hearing a lot about The Resurrection during this Easter season, and Geza Vermes has written a book by that title.  He is the author of the standard translation of the Dead Sea Scrolls, and one of the most respected authorities on the subject.  He starts with a fascinating overview of the Jewish world of Jesus' time, discussing the various attitudes to the afterlife and revealing that the idea of bodily resurrection was virtually unknown back then.  Then he focuses on the Gospels, and specifically what was said about the event.

 

Bake Sale Results – Thank you to our wonderful bakers and generous customers for making this year’s 5th and 6th grade bake sale a huge success!  A record amount, $554, was raised for Heifer.  We will be able to fund our goal of a water buffalo and many additional animals.

 

2008 CIA Relay for Life Team Needs You!!  The 2008 CIA Relay for Life Team is beginning preparations for the 2008 Aurora/Streetsboro Relay for Life event which benefits the American Cancer Society.  This year's Relay event will take place on Saturday, May 31, and Sunday, June 1, 2008, at the Aurora High School Memorial Stadium.  If you are are interested in learning more (and we know you are), we greatly encourage you to attend the meetings (please feel free to bring along other family members, friends and neighbors, too!!) as you see them publicized or contact Karen Pope.

The 2008 CIA Relay team looks forward again to celebrating those of you who have survived cancer; remembering those who have not; and fighting a most cruel enemy that has claimed far too many of our family members and good friends...many in the prime of their lives!  The enemy goes on...but it won't survive if we fight it together!

 

Women’s Guild – It's hard to believe that we are at the end of the Women's Guild program year.  We have a wonderful program planned for that last meeting on Wednesday, May 14th.  Phyllis Grumney and Don Arbuckle will present a sweet and comic play entitled "A Little Something for the Ducks".  Sally McGill will again direct for us in her usual skilled manner.   Circle A will prepare lunch and share devotions that day.  The cost for lunch is $4.00 and reservations are not required.  Since it is our last meeting we will install officers for the 2008-2009 year.  Those nominated are:

President- Tanya Shively

Vice President - Martha Gray

Treasurer - Laura Munroe

Recording Secretary - Sally McGill

Corresponding Secretary - Muriel French

Circle A - Lillian Papp

Circle B - Ginny Miller

Circle D - Sara Akins

Circle 3H - Marion Tarbell

This should be a day of great fun and entertainment.  All are welcome (men, too).  Please join us in Fellowship Hall on May 14th at 11:30 AM.  Bring a friend!

 

Wanted! Used Ink Cartridges and Cell phones – Don't throw away your old cell phones!  Please save them for the Workcamp Fund.  A drop-off basket is in the Great Hall.  Large quantity pick-ups of laser print cartridges are available.  Contact Kim Williamson at 330-562-4930 for information.  HELP SAVE OUR LANDFILLS while providing financial support for Workcamp

 

RSVP is part of Senior Corps, a network of national service programs that provides older Americans the opportunity to apply their life experience to meeting community needs such as mentoring at-risk youth, organizing neighborhood watch programs, testing drinking water for contamination, teaching English to immigrants and lending their business skills to community groups.  RSVP is open to people age 55 and over.  The average commitment is 4 hours a week.  Most volunteers are paired with local community and faith based organizations.  For more information contact Mandy Zantow (330/298-2666).

 

The Circus is Coming - Habitat for Humanity of Portage County is proud to announce they are again sponsoring the Carson and Barnes Circus for a return engagement at Sunbeau Valley in Ravenna Township on Friday, June 20, 2008.  Purchasing tickets in advance will save patrons 33% of the price of tickets on circus day; (Advance Price - $6.00 for children under 12; $12.00 for adults 12 and over).  The circus will give two performances at 4:30 and 7:30.  Reserved seats for groups of 25 or more people are available at a $4.00 premium.  Tickets go on sale April 15^th.  Anyone desiring tickets should contact the Habitat Office (330-995-3378) or Dick Rowley (330-562-1019).

 

Foreign Students Looking for Housing – Foreign Links Around the Globe is seeking warm, caring host families for students from Brazil, Thailand, Spain, Turkey, Germany, Japan, Mexico and more.  Students come fully insured with their own spending money and are looking for an academic semester or year of "American life".  Call (330) 562-5606 Sharon Hermanowski for more information.

 

Mission of the Month – This month the Missions Committee is focusing on Relay for Life.

     Relay for Life is a fun-filled overnight event designed to celebrate survivorship and to raise money for research and programs for the local and national chapters of the American Cancer Society.  It represents the hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day cancer will be eliminated.

     Today more than three million Americans participate in Relay events nationwide.  During the event, teams of people gather at schools, fairgrounds or parks and take turns walking or running laps.  Each team tries to keep at least one team member on the track at all times.  This year’s event in Aurora begins at 9 AM on May 31, 2008 at Aurora High School.

 

Behind the Scenes – Many of you, I’m sure, are aware of the myriad of problems we have been having with the coffee maker up in the kitchen.  It seems like every time we turn around it has another problem.  Fortunately for us, we have Bill Akins.  On several occasions, Bill has come to the aid of the Receptions Committee volunteers who are hosting the coffee hour on Sunday morning.  The machine may be leaking water everywhere or making coffee without getting the grounds wet (which leads to very weak coffee!).  Bill has been able to fix the machine every time so that by the next Sunday, we were able to have coffee.  He has driven to Valley View to get parts.  He has “fudged” parts to make things work.  He has been up to his elbows in hot water trying to find the problem.  Bill has now done all the leg work to research and put together a proposal for a new coffee maker.  Thank you, Bill, for your dedication to all of us who need that little lift on Sunday morning (and during Guild, Rummage Sale, Nutcracker, Study Club, Potluck Dinners, etc.) to keep us going.