2010 Christmas message: "Fear Not!"

Munib Younan- Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Jerusalem and the Holy Land, and president of the Lutheran World Federation

When we think of the Christmas story, the most common words that come to mind are peace, joy, hope, faith, and love. Christmas is a pleasant time when families come together, when choirs sing, and when children are filled with fantasies. Yet the first two words of Christmas are “Fear not!”
"In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Fear not! for see-- I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.”–Luke 2:8-11
It was the same when the angel appeared to the aged priest Zechariah at the temple: “Fear not!”
And when Gabriel appeared to the young girl Mary in Nazareth: “Fear not!”
And when Joseph learned that Mary was pregnant and an angel appeared to him in a dream: “Fear not!”
In the first epistle of John, we are told “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). And so the first word of Christmas must be that spoken by the angels, “Fear not!” It is the first, the middle, and the last word of Christmas. “Fear not!” Here in Bethlehem and Jerusalem, and into the whole world, “Fear not!” Then, 2,000 years ago, and today at Christmas 2010, “Fear not!”
In first century Palestine, there were so many reasons for them to be afraid:
* For Zechariah, the impotency of old age and the potential loss of mental and physical abilities.

* For Mary, a young vulnerable girl, pregnant outside of marriage in a patriarchal society.

* For Joseph, the pressures of leading an upstanding and righteous life with religious zealots judging him on the basis of Mary’s pregnancy.

* For the shepherds, the threat of the natural world with wild animals about to attack their flocks during the darkness of night and the lawlessness of thieves and bandits who would not be afraid of using violence on them for material gain.

* For all of them, questions about God’s presence in their lives when God seemed so very far away.

And yet, “Fear not!” was the message of the angel to all of them. And it was not the terrifying, life-destroying, bad news they might have expected. It was good news of great joy for each one of them and for all people. “Fear not! For I bring you good news of great joy!”
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”–John 3:16
For Zechariah, for Mary, for Joseph, for the shepherds, the message was very simple, “God has not forgotten you. God is not far away or removed from your lives. God hears your cries of loneliness, inadequacy, uncertainty, doubt and fear about who you are, what is your purpose in life, how you fit in with your relationships to others, your relationship to this vast universe, and most of all your relationship to God—to God who comes in the form of a child born in a
humble manger, among common people like you, on a still silent night, in a small village like Bethlehem. This is good news of great joy. God loves you. Fear Not!”

There are many issues today that cause us to fear: health problems like cancer and diseases like HIV/ AIDS, economic issues like job loss and decreasing funds for retirement, family issues like divorce or the death of a spouse, environmental issues like global warming and disappearing natural resources, international tensions and the development of more destructive weaponry,
extremism in politics and religion. Once again we need a Christmas angel proclaiming, “Fear not!”
Yes, here at Christmas time 2010 in the Middle East, we once again long for a heavenly angel to comfort us with these words, “Fear not!”
Our people are in danger of drowning in fear. Many Christians in many parts of the Middle East are increasingly cowering in fear and becoming timid in their witness. Just a little over a month ago in Baghdad at Our Lady of Salvation Church terrorists gunned down two priests and fifty-one defenseless worshippers.
Since then, another three were killed in Mosul and an elderly Christian couple were murdered in their own home in Baghdad. So how do Christians respond? In an Associated Press story, one woman, afraid to give her name, said she lives in a constant state of fear, keeping her children indoors and out of school. In less than fifteen years, the number of Christians in Iraq has declined from one and a quarter million to only 400,000. For centuries Christians and Muslims have lived side by side, yet today religious extremists are holding hostage the moderate
majority, Christian and Muslim alike. Iraqi Christians are once again in need of a Christmas angel proclaiming “Fear not!”
A similar picture is developing in Egypt where Coptic Christians have fresh in their memories the drive-by shooting that left six Christians dead in Nag Hammadi as they were leaving church after last year’s Christmas Eve Mass. As we approach another Christmas season, there are heightened tensions in Egypt. We ask both sides—Christians and Muslims alike—to dialogue concerning their differences for the sake of their long-standing relationship. We announce to
them from Jerusalem, “We are praying for you.” And we say, “Fear not!”

These and other situations have resulted in the U.S. State Department “International Religious Freedom Report” for 2010 reminding us that: “The right to believe or not to believe, without fear of government interference or restriction, is a basic human right.” To believe without fear—to worship without fear—is a fundamental human right. Yet, because of extremism, people are afraid.

These and other situations were the reason that the Vatican recently held its Synod on the Middle East to:
* “confirm and strengthen Christians in their identity through the Word of God and the Sacraments.

* And to give new life. . . so that they might provide an authentic witness of joyful and attractive Christian life.”

I hope that the World Council of Churches will hold a similar conference so that we Christians of the Middle East will have a coordinated strategy and be strengthened in the process.

Here in Jerusalem and the Holy Land, including Jordan, we are not facing the same problems of persecution as our sisters and brothers in many countries of the Middle East. There may be social and political problems, but we thank God for the religious freedom we enjoy. Here Christians today number only 1.4 % of the population with many Arab Christians emigrating because of the political situation and the lack of willingness and resolve to bring about a just peace, because of lack of jobs, because of lack of housing, because of the difficulty of travel, and because of the rise of extremism on both sides.
Palestinians and Israelis today face a common enemy: fear. In the absence of justice and peace, the common denominator is fear. Fear of the other. Fear for the future. Fear that freedom is not coming. Fear that children will grow in hatred. Fear of insecurity. Fear of the occupation. Fear is our common prison that keeps us locked up in cycles of mistrust and shattered dreams. It is a fear that builds non-productive “facts on the ground”. It is a fear that will only
ever vanish when there is peace based on justice and reconciliation built on forgiveness. We proclaim that such a just peace is possible today. We pray that all political leaders will seize the opportunity before it is too late. The same message of the first Christmas rings true today, “Fear not!” There is a child who was born into a world of fear in order to take away that fear and to bring peace to earth and good will to humankind.

The Christmas message must speak loud and clear once again, “Fear not!” We are in need of a heavenly angel, a messenger of God, who says, “Do not be afraid.”
“Fear not, Zechariah. Fear not, Joseph. Fear not, Mary. Fear not, shepherds. Fear not, Palestinian Christians. Fear not, Arab Christians. God hears you. God loves you. God empowers you. God calls you to be a vibrant and living witness in this place at this critical time in history.”
When the angels appeared to the Beit Sahour shepherds, the promise of good news overshadowed all their fears. The announcement of God’s love for them and the world cast out all the fear that might have prevented them from traveling to Bethlehem amidst the crowds and the Roman soldiers on that first Christmas night.
The announcement of God’s love for them brought them to the manger where they bowed in humble worship to the long-promised Christ-child, where they prayed, where they uttered songs of thanksgiving, where they were fed spiritually and strengthened in order to return to their normal, mundane, and sometimes exhausting tasks of daily life. Luke describes this return in such encouraging words, “The Shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.”
For the shepherds, the dangers were still there. The threats of violence were still very real and no different than before. The demands of making a living, of supporting their families, and sharing with their neighbors and communities, none of that was different from the day before. In many ways, their lives had not changed, but their spirits had. They went about their daily tasks glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. From the beginning of those
two small words—“Fear not!”—the shepherds were called to witness, and sent out, unafraid, to share the good news with those around them.

Likely their home communities, their friends, and even their families met them with some reluctance, perhaps with skepticism and doubt. Those around them were still living in fear. I wonder how the shepherds began their stories about that first Christmas night? Most likely it was with those same two words, “Fear not!”
And their witness would have provided a contagion that changed families, transformed communities, and encouraged others no longer to live in fear, but to share in that vibrant witness of the hope that came to Bethlehem in the child born in a manger.

Our task as a church is to be the salt of society, the leaven of the dough. Our task today is to provide education. It is also our task to provide our society with educated individuals who promote the values of human rights, freedom of religion and democracy. Our task is to train leaders who will become teachers, lawyers, and professionals who will contribute to the well being of society. Our task is to provide a witness of non-violent struggle against injustice, to
promote religious toleration, to provide a model of peoples of different religious and ethnic backgrounds learning to see God in the other and to love our neighbor as ourselves. We can no longer be timid or afraid about our witness to the world. At this time of hopelessness, it is essential that we Christians develop a theology of witness and coexistence focusing on the reasons that the babe of the manger calls us—like the shepherds of old—to witness here in the
Holy Land.
Today Christians in the Middle East are just a small minority, living in a world filled with danger and filled with what must seem to be insurmountable challenges. And so it was with those first shepherds of Beit Sahour, only three or four of them, perhaps one or two still children, all uneducated and untrained in speech. I could understand if they had been timid in telling the story. But Luke tells us they went home glorifying and praising God. And I could understand
if today’s Christian community remained timid about its witness. But then I hear again those first two little words of the Christmas message:
“Fear not!”
The angels call to us from the first Christmas.
“Fear not!”
They speak to us when we hear the Christmas story once again.
“Fear not!”
And from the manger in Bethlehem we continue to hear.
“Fear not!”

(Posted for Pastor Bob)

Christmas Eve

SERVICE OF LESSONS, CAROLS, AND COMMUNION

8 PM

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 10 AM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26

SING FAVORITE CHRISTMAS CAROLS, COMMUNION & SHARE CHRISTMAS COOKIES

EVERYONE IS INVITED

Christmas festivities

• Remember to bring a side dish to the service next week (Dec 19, 2010.) Ham will be served after the Christmas pageant; we already have plenty of sweets.
• Organist Helen will be playing our services again on Christmas Eve (service probably around 8 from the looks of the show of hands today, but the time is still not firm) and Sunday, Dec. 26 which will be a Christmas Carol Fest. Individuals or groups that would like to sing or perform on an instrument or give a reading or express the holiday spirit in any way they would like are welcome to come prepared. Let Pastor Bob know your plans (794.7769)
• By the way, the office next door is for rent for $400.
• Business: Annual Meeting: Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011. Recommended names or nominations, as well as personal volunteers, can be placed in the offering plate. Three open positions and one youth position.
  

Hendrick Hudson Male Chorus presents CHS choir

What a turn-out!

Donations requested

I think it is interesting that on page 3 of the Register Star today is an article about "It's A Wonderful Life" and on page 5 a headline: "Edith Casey fund out of toys." For the first time since Edith Casey, a "children's agent" with the County Charities office (now Social Services), began her fund in 1920, the organization does not have enough toys to give to the families who have requested them. Perhaps Jimmy Stewart can inspire us to do our part. There are drop-off points next to Peebles and at the DMV both in Hudson. Money is accepted at Key Bank, 160 Fairview Avenue, Hudson NY 12534.

Frank Capra once said he strove "to champion man, plead his causes and protest any degradation of his dignity, spirit and divinity." The article on "Wonderful Life" suggests that Seneca Falls, NY may have been the inspiration for Capra's Bedford Falls, a working, everyday small town that is not perfect but in a crunch pulls together and helps each other out.

I think Chatham also embodies this spirit-especially the Christ our Emmanuel congregation.

Council Highlights

1. Christ our Emmanuel had our December Council meeting yesterday. We are required to obtain congregation authority to contract for the heating work:
   The Congregation Council has discussed estimates for an essential "Service Contract" for the heating systems at the church. The furnaces in the main church are old and parts are no longer available for the original one. Service providers are also unwilling to offer any repair contract for this furnace. The second furnace alone is also older, inefficient and inadequate for the church. There are also come safety and repair requirements. After extended consideration it is recommended that a propane system conversion with a high efficiency boiler be undertaken. A cost outlay and approval of at least $10,000 needs to be considered by the congregation within the next several weeks.
2. LAST CALL: Doug Stalker (Tel: 392-5690) will be available one more time at his home studio: 170 Hudson Ave.,Chatham on Tuesday, December 14, 2010, 4:00-7:00 P.M. Please come and let him make you look vibrant and younger for the church directory and family gift photos.
3. JOY (and a little bit of effort) in giving and offering your own special experience-sharing::::::::::::::::Sign up for one Sunday for the "CHILDREN'S MESSAGE" and one Sunday for "SUNDAY MORNING COFFEE HOUR". /////////Many Hands
   Make Light Work//////
4. Christmas concert ticket income will be distributed in three parts: (1) The Ghent Food Pantry (2) The Chatham Food Pantry (3) The High School Chorus and the Hendrik Hudson Male Chorus. Additional donations may be placed in a labeled envelope in the offering plate.
5. Sunday, December 19, 2010---CHRISTMAS PAGEANT under the direction of Richard Tucksmith. Congregation Luncheon to follow. Please bring to share: a side dish to compliment a spiral ham main meal a dessert or holiday cookies
6. December 26, 2010----A Special Sunday to close out the season of Advent with the focus on the singing of treasured, traditional carols to organ music by Helen
   

Pastor Serena & family

Great visit! My how those babies have grown!

Choir rehearsal

Those of us who were able met last Sunday to try and figure out how to prepare for Christmas and decided that we would meet next Sunday, December 5 at 9:00 to give as much of a full hour as possible that week to prepare. Beyond that one hour we can discuss on the 5th. We have some ideas of things to sing for Christmas and Advent, too, if possible. We welcome any ideas you may have.

2010 Christmas Message from Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson

"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation!" Isaiah 52:7

When Jesus was born, angelic messengers broke the still calm of a Galilean night to sing joyously and proclaim, "This very day in David's city a Savior is born for you - God's Promised One, your Lord." Glad tidings of great joy! Common shepherds were the first and heartiest heralds of the promised Savior's arrival then, and today the joy in Jesus' birth fills every corner of this season.

Admittedly sometimes in modern America the commercial clatter and cultural clutter of the season seem to overtake the angels' song and the shepherds' joyous news. But such a majestic message of God's salvation cannot be silenced. Some loudly lament that the world will not listen to the Gospel message, but in this season so many beckon. "Christians, sing with us. Bring your songs of Christmas, of Jesus." A few may shush you, just as there were those who would later attempt to silence Jesus and his message of God's remarkable, revolutionary mercy, even to the point of crucifixion.

If so, then that is all the more reason to enter into the commotion and clutter, to let go of your inhibitions, to join the angels in singing and the shepherds in exulting with unashamed joy: Jesus, the Savior is born!

"Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices, together they sing for joy." "See, your salvation comes." Isaiah 52:8; 62:11

Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Pastor Serena and Family

Pastor Serena and Family will be visiting the church on Sunday, Nov. 28. She and her family are looking forward to seeing everyone.

Council Meeting-Nov. 2010

• The Henrik Hudson Male Chorus and the Chatham High School Choir will perform at CoE on Friday, December 10, 2010 at 7:30 P.M.
  Refreshments will follow the performance. Tickets will be $5.00 for individuals and $10.00 for families. Kristen announced that our church sign appeared on "Face Book!"
• A date for a Christmas pageant has been suggested: December 19, 2010. A congregation Lunch is suggested.
• Services will return to the basement in January to save on heat expenses in the Sanctuary.
• Kirsten will hold a re-training session for acolytes on Saturday,December 4, 2010, at 10:00 A.M. Etiquette at the front of the church and during service will be reviewed.All present acolytes and anyone else interested in participating are encouraged to attend.
• There is a sign-up sheet attached to the cabinet at the back of the church for those who would like to share in providing the "Children's Sermon" during the service.
• Donations for the luncheon following the funeral for Herman were numerous and the fellowship and memories in good keeping. Donations from the Witthoft bereavement will be applied to the "Lift" fund.
• There is a sign-up sheet on the front of the cabinet at the back of the church for "Sunday Morning Coffee-hour" host/hostessing.
• Mac, Bruce, and Marcia have cleaned and organized the smaller apartment in the parsonage for office-space rental. Asking monthlyrent is $400.00 plus electric. Thanks for your constant and consistent good work, M, M & B!
• Mac has met with representatives from Main Care and Suburban Propane about the condition of the four furnaces in the church and parsonage. Basic safety and replacement repairs are needed. The oldest furnace which heats the sanctuary cannot be serviced; parts are not available. It also produces extreme enough heat to melt insulation on pipes and should be replaced. It is suggested that the smaller furnace be re-ducted into the sanctuary as well and the older one be dismantled, because a new unit estimates at $10,ooo. The cost of the basic repairs will be: $1150.75 The annual maintenance service contract for three furnaces will be $808.33. A commercial rate for oil on a budget plan is offered.
• The new lift is being manufactured and should be available for installation by the beginning end of November.
• The Marion Stegman fund donation of $100.00 was made. It is suggested that a donation jar be placed at the back of the church to continue support of this local charity.
• It seems that an agreement for sharing cluster ministry with St. Luke's and other northern Columbia County congregations was not implemented last year. We will need to vote at our annual meeting.
• Our share of secretarial costs this year have not covered all expenses. Therefore, our costs will increase in January from $175.00/month to $377.50/month, or $4,529.00 annually. This includes secretary salary, benefits, paper, newsletter, copier, and "Sunday & Seasons" bulletins.
• It is suggested that the Cluster Newsletter be available quarterly and that individual congregations undertake to distribute paper copies as needed to elderly persons and those without internet access. With this in mind members can "adopt" a shut-in or elderly member by sending or bringing the weekly bulletin to them: Please submit additional names by placing note in the offering plate.
• The church directory is in progress. A nearly complete list of names and addresses is available. Doug has three scheduled photo opportunities: Nov. 30th at church, 4:00-7:00 P.M., Dec. 7th at church, 4:00-7:00P.M., Dec. 14th at his home studio, 4:00-7:00 P.M. Pictures can be ordered directly from him according to three packages as listed on our web page. There is no fee for the photo sittings. Retakes are welcome. Pictures can be available in time for Christmas. Samples of Doug's beautiful photos may be found at:
  

http://douglasstalker.shutterbugstorefront.com/chathamphotos

OR
http://dougstalkerphoto.com/

• Pastor continues his offer of training for visitation with the Eucharist. No one has been able to take advantage of it yet.
• Claire devotedly continues keeping up with registering church occasions and documents.
  

The next Congregation Council meeting will be on DECEMBER 7, 2010, 7:00 P.M.

Photo Packages

Doug has done such a beautiful job of taking photos of everyone for our directory.

If you would like to purchase a photo package, please contact him directly.
stalkersid123@aol.com


The packages are priced as follows:

(No cost for the photo shoot.)

Package 1---Family---
(2) 8x10; (2) 5x7; (40) wallet size===$110.00

Package 2---Two Poses---
(2) 8x10; (2) 5x7; (16) wallet size===$80.00

Package 3---One Pose---
(2) 8X10; (1) 5x7; (8) wallet size====$45.00

Bishop Marie Jerge speaks

CLICK HERE to see a youtube video of Bishop Marie's review of the Conference of Bishops.

Each October the Conference of Bishops gathers for worship and prayer, mutual support and discussion about the life of the church. In the past Bishop Jerge has provided written descriptions of these gatherings. This month we’re trying something new. Instead of writing an article Bishop Jerge is sharing her experience through video.

Please take a moment to view this video and listen to Bishop Jerge as she describes what happens when the conference of bishops gather, the significant discussions at October’s meeting and how we in the Upstate New York are walking with the ELCA at this time. Share it with others in your community and please provide us with some feedback as we learn how to best take advantage of media that is still new to us. Comments can be sent to Neal Fischer . We hope that videos like this one will help us reach a broader audience as we continue to tell the story of how we are living our mission to be resurrection people who pray first, walk together and change lives.

CLICK HERE to see the video.

Herman Witthoft

It is with sadness that Doris tells us that on 10/31/10 Herman passed away.

Herman, Doris and the entire Witthoft family have been an intregal part of our church for many years and we send them our love and deepest condolences.

The funeral will be at 2pm on Saturday at Christ our Emmanuel in Chatham.
Calling hours are Friday evening 6-8pm at Wenk's Funeral Home.

Patty B. is looking for volunteers to help out that day to set up and clean up after the reception after the funeral and for donations of salads, casseroles, desserts, & beverages. You can e-mail her at pbervy@yahoo.com

Hendrik Hudson Chorus & Dr. Krey

The Hendrick Hudson Male Chorus to return to Christ our Emmanuel on Friday,
December 10 with the Chatham High School Choir.

The Hendrick Hudson Male Chorus, of which I am a member, will return again on
Friday December 10 at 7:30 pm for its annual Holiday Concert. Last year they
sang on a Sunday afternoon when it snowed. We hope not to repeat that feature
this year. I am happy to announce that the Chatham High School Choir has
accepted our invitation to be part of the concert. More information will follow.

This Saturday evening, October 23, 7:30pm, the Hendrick Hudson Male Chorus will
join with the Catskill Glee Club, the Mendelssohn Club of Albany and the Yankee
Male Chorus for a MASSED CONCERT at Union College Memorial Hall in Schenectady.
Admission is free. The Massed Concert which usually has more than 100 singers,
is sponsored by the Mohawk-Hudson Male Chorus Association and occurs only every
other year. The last one was at the Troy Music Hall. It is a thrill to sing with
such a gathering of men from up and down the Hudson valley. It is a sound like
none other. You are all invited.

Two weeks later, on Saturday November 6, Dr. Philip Krey, President of the
Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia will present a one day course on
Lutheran Identity from 10am to 4pm. I count it a privilege to consider myself a
friend of Phil Krey and I look forward to attending this course. If at least one
more of you attends it is $25. for as many as come from our church, otherwise it
is $15. per person. Let me know at 794-7769 or in person on Sunday so I can
register us.

Dr. Krey - Nov 6, 2010

Pastor Bob says this guy is really great.

Dr. Phil Krey will be speaking at

First Lutheran Church

in Albany

on November 6 from 10-4.

The cost (which includes lunch - yummy!) is $15 for one person and (what a deal!) $25 for as many people as we want.

I think his recently published book is entitled Lutheran Spirituality. He will be speaking about what it means to be a Lutheran these days, if I understand the green poster correctly. If I remember, I will post the poster on the bulletin board this Sunday.

RSVP pastoramber@gmail.com

http://ltsp.edu/people/pkrey

Lift photos

Here we go!

Thanks for photos, Doug.

Council Meeting

• SEPTEMBER 14, 2010
• The estate of Julia T. has made the church a beneficiary with $1000.00. This very generous donation will be designated for the Lift installation.
  
• Pastor is beginning to offer a "Children's Time" during the service. He is suggesting members volunteer to plan a children's service on a rotating basis.
• The list of assistants for church service is on the bulletin board.
• Kristen has suggested a choral group again be formed for supplement to the service, especially during holiday times. Meetings will be before church and rehearsals will take place after the service. JOIN US!!
• Pastor is offering training for Eucharistic Ministry to shut-ins.
• The Sunday Morning Coffee hour is enjoyed by all. The hard-working
  group suggest you bring a few goodies now and then to share on a regular basis.
• The next Congregation Council meeting will be at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, October 12, 2010.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

ELCA Presiding Bishop's Third Town Hall

September 19, 2010
CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) responded to a variety of questions in a live online "Town Hall Forum" Sept. 19, including topics such as evangelism, relationships with Muslims, human sexuality, signs of hope, mission funding, church unity, Middle East concerns and full communion relationships.
The forum, held here in the chapel of the Lutheran Center, was the third forum in the past year for the Rev. Mark S. Hanson. He responded to questions from a 43-member live audience and from online viewers. At least 1,169 players were launched by Web viewers, ELCA Communication Services reported.
The Rev. M. Wyvetta Bullock, executive for administration, ELCA Office of the Presiding Bishop, hosted the forum.
On-demand video and transcripts of the Town Hall Forum will be posted Sept.
22 at http://www.ELCA.org/townhall on the ELCA website.

The first question came from an online participant who asked the presiding bishop for suggestions on what Lutherans might do to take "more evangelical action" within their congregations and community.
Hanson said that the question points to "exactly the orientation that we have taken as a churchwide organization for the future of the ELCA. We have placed directors of evangelical mission on every synod staff. It is our vision that every congregation is growing as an evangelical center for mission."
"We have a tendency to be a bit reserved as Lutherans about naming the name of Jesus," he said. "Together as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, one of our themes is that we are called during our Baptism to be everyday evangelists in Word and deed, testifying through the good news of God's love in Christ for the whole creation. But that doesn't come naturally to us. We have to be bold."
A young member of the live audience shared that she is awaiting approval as a diaconal minister of the ELCA. She told Hanson that the church "does not know what to do" with the three lay ministry vocations -- diaconal ministers, deaconess and associates in ministries.
Saying that the lay rosters can be "confusing to people," Hanson said, "It is in living and serving the neighbor that the office of Word and Service, that the three lay ministries are called to lead and accompany."
In light of the church's attention to homosexuality, one participant asked why not let congregations make their own decisions about calling pastors.
Hanson said that in many respects, "congregations have a great choice in the matter. Once the church sets policies regarding who can be ordained pastors and lay (ministers) of the church, it is still up to every congregation to discern what potential pastor should (be) called whose gifts match the gifts of the congregation, and who could bring an evangelical zeal and mission focus. In that sense, every congregation has great freedom in this church to call whoever is approved for call as they work with the synod bishop."
When asked what some of the greatest signs of hope have been in the past six months, Hanson cited that the ELCA has made a commitment to be a more racially diverse and pentecostal church.
A pastor in the audience asked how to keep "the zeal and focus on evangelism" at the center of mission, particularly in light of "many hot issues" in the church.
"It always is a tension between how much controversy can the church handle without being defined by the issues that tend to divide us rather than the gospel that unites us," Hanson replied. "I don't think hearing, believing and proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ means that we will be absent tension."
An online participant asked about what will happen to mission and funding. "We are about to reduce the budget of the churchwide organization significantly, and it's going to result in painful cuts in staff and grants,"
said Hanson. "What's tragic for me is that I bet every member of the ELCA wishes to be part of a church that's planting the church. An organism that doesn't regenerate itself dies," he said, adding that to regenerate takes imagination. "We are still committed to planting over 70 congregations next year" and "over 40 of them will be in multiethnic, multilingual and multicultural communities and communities where people live in deep poverty."
Another participant asked about the ELCA developing "evangelists" as in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania and other churches overseas. Hanson replied that one opportunity being considered in the church with synods and seminaries is creating "mission schools" -- not just learning the faith but how to live the faith as everyday evangelists.
An audience member asked Hanson what brings people together in the midst of division. Acknowledging that it has been a painful time for many congregations, Hanson said that the culture of many congregations is to "leave differences at the door." The "culture that we're in is so polarized around so many issues of personal morality that people bring that polarization and tension to the church," he said, adding that it is time to "take a breath and maybe engage … in acts of foot washing, public acts of healing and reflection.
Words don't seem to do it anymore."Human sexuality, Middle East peace, full communion topics addressed
In the town hall's second half, Hanson said he encouraged people to sit down with others who hold different points of view on human sexuality, ask questions and listen. Hanson said people with varying viewpoints should "start with the premise that you are both hearing God's Word."
On peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians, he said, "We are at a very critical moment. Pray that face-to-face dialogue will bring a two-state solution." He said this coming week is critical because of decisions that both sides must make regarding the possibility of continued building of Israeli settlements. Hanson also said Jerusalem must be a shared city.
On diversity in the ELCA, Hanson repeated his suggestion that white people must confront the realities of white privilege and not expect people from ethnic populations "to become like us." He said the church has "marvelous ethnic ministries, great diversity in ethnic leadership and great diversity in the (ELCA) churchwide organization."
One question concerned the ELCA's full communion relationships, in which it shares with each of six other U.S. Christian denominations: The Episcopal Church, Moravian Church, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), Reformed Church in America, United Church of Christ and the United Methodist Church. Full communion allows for mutual exchange of pastors and sharing of resources at all levels of the churches. Hanson said coordinating committees that guide the relationships are being reconstituted with a focus on evangelism and mission.
He said it is important for the churches to be strategic, pointing to conversations between ELCA seminaries and those of the full communion partners, as well as conversations about local mission between the churches.
When asked about reductions in annuity payments to retired ELCA clergy because of economic conditions, Hanson said it is difficult to differentiate that from the impact of the economy on people "who sit in our pews." As committed as the church is to help retired clergy, Hanson said "this is a very difficult time." He also declined to address a question about a terminated pension plan for Augsburg Fortress employees, since the matter is in litigation.

Regarding ELCA congregations that have taken votes to leave the denomination due to the 2009 Churchwide Assembly decisions on human sexuality, Hanson said, "Even after the sad decision of leaving the ELCA, we have to remember we are still sisters and brothers in the Body of Christ." He added that the ELCA and former ELCA members must then ask questions such as how they
will speak of the other.

The presiding bishop warned that people should not "underestimate the tide of religious extremism (that) has to be countered." He said it is important for Lutherans to talk with Muslim and Jewish brothers and sisters and become "a
collective force to turn the tide away from religious extremists." Hanson
also said he has been engaged with Mulsim brothers and sisters in deep dialogue continuously in recent years.
In response to a final question about bringing the church to the outside world, Hanson said, "We have to plant the church where the people are" and not assume they will come to the church.
The presiding bishop's next online forum is planned for Sunday, Nov. 21.

ELCA Presiding Bishop Addresses Discernment, Repentance, Reconciliation

CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), addressed a number of topics in
an Aug. 24 pastoral letter to the church, including differing views on human
sexuality, reconciliation, not bearing false witness against one another and
ongoing dialogue about faith and life.
"It is my prayer that we use this time for discerning and engaging; for
repenting and reconciling; for restraint but not timidity; and for rejoicing,"
Hanson wrote in his letter.
"Throughout the ELCA I hear people asking, 'Is my voice heard? Will my
voice be respected as we seek together to discern God's purpose for us?' The
answer is yes," Hanson wrote. "Nevertheless, people of deep faith and a desire
to be part of this church wonder: Do we mean it when we say we can preach,
teach and hold divergent views on sexuality and be full participants in the
ELCA's life and witness? Again, the answer is yes."
Hanson wrote that his "yes" is predicated upon members' commitment "to be
engaged together in discernment," which "must be grounded in the witness of the
Scriptures and the confessions, and it needs the voices of all the baptized."
The presiding bishop commented on the recent assembly of The Lutheran
World Federation in Stuttgart, Germany. He said the most powerful moment of
that meeting occurred when Lutherans asked for forgiveness from God and from
Mennonites for the violence done to Anabaptist Christians in Reformation times
and through continuing legacies in Lutheran teachings.
"This experience of reconciliation is underscored for me in the fifth
chapter of 2 Corinthians: the powerful announcement that if anyone is in
Christ, there is a new creation. This new creation rises from Jesus, who died
rather than be in the sin-accounting business. The implication for us of the
gospel's transforming power is that we become ambassadors for Christ. God has
entrusted to each of us the message and ministry of reconciliation," Hanson
wrote.
In his letter Hanson referred to the anticipated formation this week of
the North American Lutheran Church. "We must ask how this separation in the
body of Christ will serve the ministry and message of reconciliation entrusted
to us by God," he wrote.
"The ELCA has and will continue reaching out to others for the sake of the
gospel and serving our neighbor," he wrote. "Standing together, we are known as
a church that rolls up its sleeves and solves problems, the church that is
catalyst, convener and bridge builder. Our strong ecumenical relationships and
global partnerships testify to that commitment."
He continued, "Yet before the ELCA can undertake any such efforts with a
new Lutheran church body, I believe we must commit to obey the commandment
against bearing false witness and commit to live its meaning in every setting,
both private and public: 'We are to fear and love God, so that we do not tell
lies about our neighbors, betray or slander them, or destroy their reputations.
Instead we are to come to their defense, speak well of them, and interpret
everything they do in the best possible light.'" The quotation is from Martin
Luther's Small Catechism in Evangelical Lutheran Worship.
Hanson wrote that the world is plagued by incivility, willful
misunderstanding and hurtful caricatures of people who do not agree. "Let us
declare that such behaviors will stop with us. There is room in this church for
lively conversations and disagreements about questions of faith and life. There
is room in this church for vigorous dialogue that witnesses to faith without
rushing to judgment and closing off discussion," the presiding bishop's
pastoral letter said.
Hanson called for restraint in judging others and called for speaking
charitably with and about others. He said members should not be timid in
proclaiming Jesus Christ and participating in God's healing of the world.
"Even in the midst of great challenges in the economy and in the church,
we can rejoice because the ministry in which we are engaged is a ministry of
God's mercy and reconciliation in Christ," Hanson wrote.
"Our ministry is not about us, our shortcomings or our problems, for we
proclaim Jesus Christ. We rejoice in the forgiveness that God offers at the
font and the table, in public proclamation and personal assurance. We celebrate
the reconciliation from God that breaks down every dividing wall of hostility
and unites humankind in the bonds of Christ. We delight in the promise of the
new creation that God is bringing to life in Christ. We joyfully embrace the
world and all its inhabitants in love and service," Hanson's letter concluded.
---
The full text of Presiding Bishop Hanson's pastoral letter is at
http://www.ELCA.org/bishopstatement on the Web.For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or news@elca.org
http://www.elca.org/news
Twitter: http://twitter.com/elcanews
Posted for Pastor Bob

Lift for the handicapped

It is my pleasure to announce to you that our application has been approved by
the Chatham planning board. Aaron and I went before the board this evening for the third time and thru his efforts, we were finally given approval.

I will be contacting the lift people tomorrow to start things rolling.
Be prepared to find the basement area under construction in the next week or two.

Hopefully we are finally on our way,
Mac

Cluster Picnic 2010

Thanks, Linda O!

For your listening pleasure!

Cluster Picnic 2010

Next Sunday, August 15, at 10 AM at Crellin Park. That means no worship on Park Row.

Members of Christ our Emmanuel are in charge of grilling and bringing a SALAD or DESSERT.
Is it possible to beat the weather we had for yesterday's BBQ at the Isaksen's? What a wonderful day!

Have a great week!

BBQ at the Isaken's!!

The members and friends of Christ our Emmanuel are invited to a Pot Luck Barbecue at the Isaksen's next Saturday, August 7, from 4 to 7pm.
Those who wish to swim, fish, or go rowing in Pond Beverly are welcome to come earlier in the afternoon. We will have the badminton/volleyball net up and the Sarros will bring their bocce set.

Contact Bev Isaksen 794-7769 or Donna McDonald 758-2210 to coordinate the food.
Those who have easily transportable chairs can bring them, though there will be some at the Isaksen's.

Directions From Old Chatham:
Drive North on County Route 13, through Rayville.
Take left on Riders Mills Road and proceed 1 mile.
Right after the red barn on your right turn right on Ashley Hill Road.
Drive .9 mile. The Isaksen house #175, is a greyish-green house on the left, with the flag flying. Parking off the right side of the road in the entrance to the pond.

Our beautiful sign at night

Thanks again for the good work, Doug!

Annual Tag Sale 2010

Tag sale was very successful!
We made over $3200 this year.

Here are a few of the crew members.
Some (one in particular) did very little
but just managed to end up in the photo.

Good job, everyone!

Many, many thanks to Doug & Linda.

Duplex for Rent

The apartment next to the church on Park Row in Chatham is available. The current tenants have bought a house. Congratulations to them!

The apartment is a spacious duplex (1/2 of a house) with off-street parking.

3 bedrooms, dining room, living room. 1 1/2 bath.

Covered front porch, lots of storage and attic space.

Walk to schools and Main St. Great landlord.

Washer/dryer hook-ups.

Mowing, plowing included. Heat and electric are not.

$950/month.

Contact Doug Stalker 518.392.5690

Giving USA

The Chronicle of Philanthropy chronicles – you guessed it – philanthropy, and in the June 17th issue reports on Giving USA for 2009. While the category of religion may not always overwhelm casual readers of trend-reports, religious giving is much watched. And there is much to watch. According to another monitoring agency, Empty Tomb, “religion” last year raised 100.95 billion dollars, which means that it represents 33 percent of all charitable giving. While such giving is from the heart and so, on that level, is secret, it is also very public, thanks to the Internal Revenue Service and the reports of the congregations and agencies, most of which must, and do, give scrupulous accounting of the funds.

The public knows that the financial crisis and recession have hit philanthropy hard. The big givers held back mos t: Gifts in the over-one-million-dollar class were down 63.6 percent! Giving to colleges and universities was down 17.8 percent and to hospitals, down 11 percent. On such a scale, religion held up well. Analysis of 1,247 religious organizations in the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability showed giving was down only 3.7 percent there, all according to the Giving USA reckoning. Empty Tomb found that overall giving to religion, after inflation, was down only 0.3 percent.

The first question about statistics is: How accurate are they? One gets the impression from the numerous people quoted in the several Chronicle articles that a) they recognize the surveyors as conscientious, their methods ever-improving, their intentions good, b) but the results are not fully trustworthy. Many observers think that th e decline in most of the areas, including religion, the least-declinist, is more steep than reported. These analysts look at annual reports and balance sheets of religious organizations, most of which have had to cut back on personnel and projects because there are smaller funds with which to work. They talk to development officers and financial stewards and draw the conclusion that almost across the board, there’s been a decline of more than 0.3 percent. You might say that the professionals can “feel it in their bones,” trading anecdotes, looking in the mirror, and reading e-mails about unemployed relatives who, no matter where their heart is, cannot keep up with pledges or match those from earlier years.

Why is accuracy important? Consultant Edith Falk says “people want to have these numbers so they can benchmark against national numbers .” They are “also important because they are used to measure just how generous Americans are.” Joblessness, market jitters, and other factors can take a spiritual toll. It is also important to see where priorities are. Dan Busby, president of the Evangelical Council, rightly says that “the impact of the recession has been spotty. Rescue missions and child-sponsor groups in many cases have done well, while others are impacted more significantly.” Favorite causes and those which have commanded loyalties over the years fare best.

In the Great Depression, many religious groups suffered a great depression, so in this Great Recession it is natural for a parade of leaders to experience some, if not great, recession. Those who stress religious motivations, and speak of the bounties from God and the values of community, wil l not and should not be satisfied with the giving levels in still-prosperous America. But comparing international and local cultural trends, one can only conclude that great numbers of Americans, moved by their faith, can be counted on. Will they prosper if and as the nation “comes out of” its current fix?

References:
http://philanthropy.com/extras
http://www.emptytomb.org/
http://www.givingusa.org/gusa/mission.cfm
Martin Marty is the Fairfax M. Cone Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the Universitiy of Chicago, where he taught chiefly at the Divinity School for 35 years. He is a well known author and prominent voice on matters of religion and faith. This column is the June 21, 2010 edition of his weekly column, Sightings. Reprinted with permission.
Posted for Pastor Bob

Oil Spill

ELCA NEWS SERVICE
June 28, 2010
ELCA Presiding Bishop Calls Oil Spill in Gulf 'Heartbreaking'
10-176-MRC

CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is "heartbreaking and infuriating," wrote the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Although the spill causes deep sorrow, all who care for the earth and work for its restoration can be confident that they are not pursuing a lost cause, he wrote in a June 28 pastoral letter to the 4.6 million-member ELCA.
"Moving to indignation and anger over the neglect and carelessness that led to this disaster, both in private industry and in government regulation, is understandable," wrote Hanson.
"However, to do so without recognizing the responsibility we all share -- as consumers of petroleum products, as investors in an economy that makes intensive and insistent energy demands, and as citizens responsible for the care of creation -- lacks credibility and integrity. An honest accounting of what happened (and what failed to happen) must include our own repentance," he wrote.
"The human family need not drown in a flood of suspicion and recrimination that is more toxic and more lasting than the oil that floods the gulf can ever be," wrote Hanson. "The cleansing waters of baptism in Christ … bring forgiveness and reconciliation with God."
Responding to a challenge of this size and complexity will call upon "countless insights and skills, embodied in hundreds of occupations and trades, and upon the collective strength and will of us all," Hanson wrote.
In his message Hanson suggested members use a series of resources for "worship, study and action."
"God who made the creation and made it good has not abandoned it," wrote Hanson. "The life-giving power of God's creative goodness remains at work, even in the Gulf of Mexico."
Posted for Pastor Bob

Synod Assembly 2010

Thanks to Pastor Serena for this photo of the bishop formally accepting Christ our Emmanuel as a new church.

Council Meeting-June 1, 2010

• The annual church yard sale will be held July 8th, 9th, & 10th at the Stalkers.
  Wed. July 7th in the evening---pick up of items from the church and transported to the Stalkers yard----trucks and strong arms needed.


• Marcia and Bruce will represent the church at the Annual Synod Assembly in Rochester.


• What a beautiful job Bruce and Alex have painted the church doors for a sparkling red welcome.


• The coffee hour at the back of the sanctuary after service has been successful with thanks for the extra efforts by committee members.


• Total job estimate for the lift is $25,000.00-$30,000.00. Donations welcome!


• The list for addresses, telephone and emails is available in the sanctuary for the directory information of members and friends. Doug has provided a list on the bulletin board of those who have had their picture taken for the picture directory.
  
  

Betty in Red

Friends for 70 years!

Mission Statement

CHRIST OUR EMMANUEL’S MISSION STATEMENT
Our Church Has Been Called TO GO FORWARD with a spirit of HOPE, AND LOVE AND FAITH in GOD'S GRACE TO SEEK and SERVE the ever changing needs of our community.

Blessing our new church

From left to right: Pastor David Preisinger, Pastor Roger Beiswenger, Pastor Robert Isaksen, Bishop Marie Jerge, Pastor Peter Klotz, Pastor John Califano, Pastor James Slater.

Sunday, May 23

Remember to wear red!

Council Meeting - May 4, 2010

• Cluster picnic planning meeting is June 15th in Hudson for the August 15th picnic at Crellin Park.


• The dedication of the new rocking chair will be Sunday, May 9th. Russ A. has added a plaque to the chair.


• The consolidation service, first communion, and reception were well received; attendance: approximately 90 persons. Three former ministers attended: Peter Klotz, John Califano, Roger Beiswenger. Serena Mollenkopf-Grill sent a written message and David Roppel sent regrets. Bishop Marie Jerge officiated. Pastor Robert Isaksen was installed as pastor of CoE. Pastor Slater of St. Luke's in Valatie and Cluster coordinator attended, as did David Preisinger, representative and counselor from the Synod offices.


• Pastor provided more information on the handicap access lift. Its suggested placement on the inside of the last stained glass window on the right wall at the rear of the church would require a shortened pew and some adjustments in the basement. A quiet motor on the lift will evidently keep disruption to a minimum during the service.


• Assistance was requested of the Pastor with the performance of the ushers group, particularly during communion. Those willing to participate will have a rehearsal after church service as soon as possible.


• Organist Amy, who played at the consolidation service, has suggested a young man as organist to the congregation. The average rate of pay for Sunday Service is $100.00! Quick! Someone learn to play!


• The coffee hour provided after the church service by the social ministry group--Beverly & Gary ---has been successful. A particular thanks goes to Shelly C for the delicious cakes and cookies from Bella Napoli in Albany. Yum! Yum!


• The food pantry is in constant need of donations, and that a member of the church recently came and asked what the needs were, then promptly purchased and delivered to the pantry.


• The dedication of the "Resurrection Window" will be included in the service on May 23rd, Pentecost Sunday.


• Any news from church members, dates of events, and prayer list inclusions should be submitted to the cluster secretary, Sharon.


• There will be sign up list and welcome pad available at church service to gather the information for the directory: name, address, telephone, email.


• Doug is continuing with pictures. There will be an alphabetical listing of members and a picture section.


• Marcia will follow up with the request of the Stalkers for a date in July for the annual yard sale.


• Pastor is requesting one woman and one man delegate from CoE to attend the "Synod Assembly" with him on Monday, June 7, 2010. Christ our Emmanuel will be recognized as a new congregation at the assembly in the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.


• Pastor will be attending Camp Kalumet from August 22-29, 2010.


• NEXT COUNCIL MEETING: TUESDAY, JUNE 1, 2010

Former pastors

And how lucky we were to have these former pastors with us to celebrate! All those great deep voices . . .

Christ Our Emmanuel begins

New carpet

First the window. Now the carpet!

Sunday, April 25

Next Sunday, April 25 the day of of Celebration of our Consolidation there will be only ONE SERVICE at 3pm. There will be no Service at 10 am. Please spread the news and invite your family and friends, Bishop Marie Jerge will preside and preach at the service. Charter members will be received, a group of children will receive Communion for the first time, and Pastor Isaksen will be installed. There will be a reception after the service.

Stained glass window

The new window goes in!

A letter shared by Pastor

Dear Robert,
“I’m seeking protection, and I believe the U.S. government is saying they don’t care if I go home and am killed.” Joshua, a survivor of torture from Jamaica has spent over two years in a U.S. immigration detention facility. Joshua and his family have been targeted by gang members for their support of an opposition political party. An immigration judge has granted him asylum twice, but he still remains in jail.
There is little doubt that Joshua would be murdered if the U.S. government forces him to return to Jamaica. “It’s not poverty or hunger, why I fled, it was fear for my life.” What keeps Joshua going in the face of such a painful past and such an uncertain future? “Faith and belief in Jesus Christ and praying and fasting,” Joshua says.
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) strives to be an answer to prayers like Joshua’s. Survivors of torture who seek protection in the United States are often detained before they have a chance to make their case for asylum or other forms of legal protection. Through LIRS’s national network of service partners, we help torture survivors endure the challenges of immigration detention, help find them legal representation and advocate for a more humane system. We are writing to ask for your help to assist people like Joshua.
Please lift your voice at the LIRS Action Center to urge your elected officials to support legislation that would protect detained torture survivors. And your gifts make it possible to fund services for newcomers who have suffered so much and whose lives are at risk.
LIRS is committed to providing support to individuals like Joshua and to giving a voice to those who are in need your support. Your gifts and your advocacy enable us to continue this important work as we assist those seeking refuge and protection in the United States .
Sincerely,
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service

Council Meeting - April 2010

• A consolidation celebration service will be held on April 25, 2010 at 3:00 P.M.
  It will be led by Bishop Marie C. Jerge, who will reaffirm a church with the new name "Christ our Emmanuel Lutheran Church." There will be a reception after the celebration service in the basement. (There will be a clean-up/preparation morning for the Celebration on APRIL 24, 2010,10:00 A.M.)
• Doug is taking pictures of the congregation for a directory. He is available in the parsonage photography unit, usually on Sunday, or by appointment.
• There will be a dedication of the rocking chair for the children's corner on Mother's Day, May 9, 2010.
• Christa will have a sign-up sheet available on Sunday, Åpril 11th, for anyone interested in serving as reader at Sunday services.
• CLUSTER PICNIC at Crellin Park, Chatham on August 15, 2010.
• Richard T shared his desire to become an ordained minister and thinks this calling will now be feasible through a new distance learning program. Pastor Isaksen has agreed to be his mentor through the application process and subsequent studies. Congratulations, Richard!
  **Please note these are from the unofficial notes of the Council until they are approved at the next Council meeting.

Easter 2010

What a gorgeous day! Doesn't the church look beautiful with its new carpet and reconfigured seating? What a great photo, Doug! Betty looks perfectly content in the rocker donated by Heidi in honor of her mom. And who is that striking man in front of our brand spankin' new sign?

A nice photo of Bob Radley

SEVEN STANZAS AT EASTER

Easter and the Resurrection

While most Americans describe Easter as a religious holiday, a new U.S. survey finds that less than half (42%) tie it to the resurrection following the death of Jesus on the cross. The attached poem, written almost 50 years ago by John Updike, might well be used to make that connection for our people.

SEVEN STANZAS AT EASTER

By John Updike

Make no mistake: if He rose at all
it was as His body;
if the cells' dissolution did not reverse, the molecules
reknit, the amino acids rekindle,
the Church will fall.

It was not as the flowers,
each soft Spring recurrent;
it was not as His Spirit in the mouths and fuddled
eyes of the eleven apostles;
it was as His Flesh: ours.

The same hinged thumbs and toes,
the same valved heart
that — pierced — died, withered, paused, and then
regathered out of enduring Might
new strength to enclose.

Let us not mock God with metaphor,
analogy, sidestepping transcendence;
making of the event a parable, a sign painted in the
faded credulity of earlier ages:
let us walk through the door.

The stone is rolled back, not papier-mache,
not a stone in a story,
but the vast rock of materiality that in the slow
grinding of time will eclipse for each of us
the wide light of day.

And if we will have an angel at the tomb,
make it a real angel,
weighty with Max Planck's quanta, vivid with hair,
opaque in the dawn light, robed in real linen
spun on a definite loom.

Let us not seek to make it less monstrous,
for our own convenience, our own sense of beauty,
lest, awakened in one unthinkable hour, we are
embarrassed by the miracle,
and crushed by remonstrance.

From Updike, John. "Telephone Poles and Other Poems" (New York: Alfred A. Knopf,1961).
Posted on behalf of Pastor Bob.

Save the Date! April 3

There will be a work morning at church on Saturday, April 3, 2010 at 10 to prepare the sanctuary for Easter Sunday and a return to worship upstairs. Many hands make light work!

Council Meeting, March 9, 2010

MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION COUNCIL OF CHRIST our EMMANUEL LUTHERAN
CHURCH - March 9, 2010

In attendance: Marcia, Patty , Kristen, Pastor Robert Isaksen, Gary, Christa, Linda O.
Absent: Mac, Ken W.

Two guest craftsmen for the restoration of the Resurrection Window from Christ church made a presentation of the progress. Chuck W of East Chatham (929-3993) [studio in Great Barrington off Monument Valley Road on Stoneybrook Rd.: 413-528-6287] and contractor Erin G explained the stages beginning with the initial bench rubbing to establish a map for reassembly, continuing with removal of the glass pieces for cleaning, scraping of the metal and casting for new metal frames for each piece of glass. The window is of opalescent glass with interior face plates for the face and hands of the angel, in the style of LaFarge/Tiffany, perhaps from the Baird Glass Studio of Boston. There is a similar window in Malone. Various pieces and the bench tools for the reassembly were depicted on a computer video. It is estimated that the window will be ready for installation over two days from the 10th to the 20th of April, 2010. The remaining cost is $14,107.50.

Chuck estimated the replacement value of the current circular window in the sanctuary at $2500.-$3000.; with an additional amount for framing for an estimate of $4500.00. This is no indicator of actual resale value, but does provide information for consideration in selling or donating the circular window. The contractor will crate the window upon removal for storage until a decision is made. Erin mentioned "King Richard" for the marketing of the circular window.

Doug attended the meeting with wonderful first proofs of head shots in various styles from his photographic studio. He has started collecting church member pictures for a directory, and will be available in the parsonage over the next couple of Sundays for parishioners to have their pictures taken.
Doug's Web-page:
http://douglasstalker.shutterbugstorefront.com

The minutes of the council meeting of February 9th were reviewed with some comments and updates:

----estimates on a replacement furnace are deferred
----two additional furnaces in the parsonage are yet to be cleaned and serviced

----the new church sign is installed; Marcia retrieved the box of letters and explained procedure for lettering on the sign; A sign keeper committee may need to be
requested.

----the completed, amended Constitution has been submitted to the Upstate New York Synod; a "Synod" identification number should be forthcoming

----the annually requested ELCA report of membership, finances, programs, and ceremonies is past February deadline but in progress, Patty is collecting information and making completions

----the long-awaited pastoral letter is still in the hands of the cluster secretary; Marcia will inquire into the delay

----the color of the carpeting for the Sanctuary has been chosen by consensus and will be installed after the installation of the restored window

----a single checking account is pending

---- Pastor updated the health news of Carol and Hank; he is able to drive again and surgery for her heart valve replacement was accomplished this week; the church has sent a card and will offer assistance as needed

The minutes were accepted as discussed.

Patty Bervy distributed the "Treasurer's Report" for February=======

Pastor and Linda O discussed educational materials available from www.augsburgfortress.org. Two levels--pre-readers and early-readers--would suit CoE needs. Linda distributed ideas from the "Kids Celebrate Worship" series.

A new rocking chair for the children's corner from the Mennonite furniture store, given in memory of Nancy Alger by the Alger and Brennen families will need a special dedication. Pastor distributed a list from the Evangelical Lutheran Worship book for Blessing for Worship Furnishings. Heidi indicated at church service that she would inquire about a plaque to be attached to the chair. A dedication during a church service will be planned with a request of Doug for a picture and possible newspaper article.


Pastor suggested an organist be hired for Easter Sunday and the CoE celebration and installation of congregation and pastor on April 25th. at 2:00 in the afternoon. Past payment has been $100. per service. Andrew and Gretchen were suggested. Marcia will follow up.

The addition of a piano or keyboard would be of assistance to the worship and music committee, especially in the basement services. Pastor has ordered an easy choir book and a simplified key board book, as well as musical CDs from the Hartford Seminary sale to enhance worship services. A donation request for a keyboard could be announced, before further discussion and inquiry into a purchase.

The following committees from the sign-up sheets are now functioning: (chairperson listed first)

ALTAR COMMITTEE: Marcia, Jeanette, Donna, Liz
AUDIT COMMITTEE: Ken , Deb, Bob
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Linda O, Tara, Richard, Ginny
CLUSTER COMMITTEE: Christa, Patty, Marcia, Mac
COMMUNION ASSISTANTS: Marcia, Dawn, Richard, Bob, Kristen
DIGITAL ORGAN: Marcia, Kristen
FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE: Patty, Malcolm, Doris, Jeannette, Gary, Anne, Beverly, Kristen
FINANCE COMMITTEE: Patty, Carole, Linda
MUSIC & WORSHIP COMMITTEE: Richard, Pastor, Kristen
PROPERTY COMMITTEE: Mac, Bruce, Gary, Alex
SOCIAL MINISTRY (Visitations): Marcia, Richard, Doris, Dawn
WEBMASTER: Deb

A "Mission Statement" sign for the bulletin board will be prepared by Christa. It will be the touchstone for discussion of long-term planning for the church year activities, tentatively scheduled for consideration after the celebration ceremony.

The April 25th celebration service of Christ our Emmanuel Charter members and friends is to be planned at the next council meeting:
---special invitations, including former pastors
---installation of pastor service
---installation of charter members (all members of the current
congregation), children, and new members service
---music
---pictures, announcements
---preparation of sanctuary and basement---clean up after
installation of window and carpeting
---finger foods, drinks, and dessert decisions

The next Congregation Council Meeting will be on: TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2010 7:00 PM

Garrison Keillor

SINGING WITH THE LUTHERANS

By Garrison Keillor

I have made fun of Lutherans for years. Who wouldn't, if you lived in Minnesota ? But I have also sung with Lutherans and that is one of the main joys of life, along with hot baths and fresh sweet corn. We make fun of Lutherans for their blandness, their excessive calm, their fear of giving offense, their lack of speed and also for their secret fondness for macaroni and cheese. But nobody sings like them!!

If you ask an audience in New York City, a relatively Lutheran less place, to sing along on the chorus of 'Michael Row the Boat Ashore', they will look daggers at you as if you had asked them to strip to their underwear. But, if you do this among Lutherans they'll smile and row that boat ashore and up on the beach! And down the road!

Lutherans are bred from childhood to sing in four-part harmony. It's a talent that comes from sitting on the lap of someone singing alto or tenor or bass and hearing the harmonic intervals by putting your little head against that person's rib cage. It's natural for Lutherans to sing in harmony. We're too modest to be soloists, too worldly to sing in unison. When you're singing in the key of C and you slide into the A7th and D7th chords, all two hundred of you, it's an emotionally fulfilling moment.

I once sang the bass line of Children of the Heavenly Father in a room with about three thousand Lutherans in it; and when we finished, we all had tears in our eyes, partly from the promise that God will not forsake us, partly from the proximity of all those lovely voices. By our joining in harmony, we somehow promise that we will not forsake each other.

I do believe this: These Lutherans are the sort of people you could call up when you're in deep distress. If you're dying, they'll comfort you. If you're lonely, they'll talk to you. And if you're hungry, they'll give you tuna salad!

Directory

Get all gussied up and come have your photo taken by our own Doug Stalker in his studio right next door to the church this Sunday after the service. We will soon have a new directory! Yippee!

Dynamics of Faith

Pastor suggests this topic might be the basis of a small group discussion during coffee hour. Whether we talk about it or not, it is certainly food for thought.

How many people were in worship with you last Sunday? Did they all hear the same sermon? It was probably interpreted differently by each person because s/he is in a different stage of his/her journey.

In the book Critical Journey: Stages in the Life of Faith, Janet Hagberg and Robert Guelich talk about six stages ranging from Recognition of God to the Life of Love. Here are some insights:

1. There is a natural God-given propensity for faithful people to see God’s will in their life in an ever deepening way.

2. The stages are fluid. Each person moves back and forth, often depending on individual life circumstances.

3. It is possible to experience more than one stage at one time.

4. No one stage is any better than another. Each builds developmentally on the previous experience.

5. Each person will identify with some characteristics in all the stages at various times in life.

6. Each person has a “home stage” where we operate most of the time and which best characterizes our life of faith at a specific time in life.

7. At times it may be difficult to identify your present stage because you are in transition from one stage to another.

8. It is often difficult for a person to fully comprehend the actual day-to-day existence of people whose present stage is two or more stages apart from their present stage.

9. People often get stuck at a particular place in a particular stage because it is more comfortable to stay where you are than it is to move. A person may not think they are stuck, but to some others it may be evident. When a person is stuck, one is not longer growing in faith. Sometimes getting stuck occurs from the fear of facing the unknown. At other times being stuck may occur because of personal or work crises out of our control. Not all unhealthy, negative, hurtful or selfish behaviors are caused by being stuck.

10. If a person lets a change or crisis touch them, and embraces it as difficult as it is, the person is more likely to grow and move eventually to another stage.

11. It is often easy to mislead a person into thinking they can move themselves to the next stage simply by doing specific actions or tasks, talking with the right people or setting their mind to it. This is not the case. Moving from one stage to the next takes time and involves bringing a personal response in sync with God’s grace in our life. God does not make us move. God’s grace allows us to move.

12. Can moving from one stage to another be done independently? Most often not. Each move frequently takes place in conjunction with a faith community, friends, support group, pastor or spiritual counselor. Moving from one stage to another always causes confusion. This can be both exhilarating and exhausting. Moving between stages can bring loneliness, mistrust and fear. It can also inspire love, caring and joy. All of this means transformation is occurring.

13. The impetus for movement between stages is frequently an event or experience in our lives over which we have little control. These would include: a health crisis, change in relationships, a teacher, models of others to
emulate, responding to other’s needs, experiencing God in a new way and the death of a close friend.

14. A key trait of moving from stage to stage is a willingness to let go. We let go to God. This is a step in faith.

These points may raise many questions. It is probably easiest to start by considering how your life experience connects with one or more of these points. First identify two or three points that you have found to be true in life. Share these with the person sitting next to you. Then, as a group talk about which points were mentioned most often. How do these times in life provide a way to help others grow in their faith? How can these faith stories be shared most effectively in your congregation? This is a starting point to understanding the dynamics of faith.

Article by Keith Mundy, assistant director for Stewardship, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Emphasis is mine.