Christ Our Emmanuel Lutheran Church

Bishop Marie Jerge

2012-01-31T18:50:00.001-05:00

Prince of Peace, Clifton Park will host Bishop Marie Jerge, on the evening of February 8for a Mission Dinner and an opportunity for congregational leaders and membersthroughout the Hudson Mowhawk Conference to hear the bishop. POP will providelasagna and bread. Folks with last names beginning with A-L are asked to bringdesserts and M-Z to bring salads. Dinner will be at 6:30 pm. The flyer isattached.

· IMPORTANT: PLEASE E-MAIL PRINCE OF PEACE IFYOU KNOW YOU WILL BE COMING TO THE DINNER ON 2/8.office@poplutheranchurch.org

Pastor Bob will be meeting with the bishop with the otherConference pastors in the morning through noon.
Posted for Pastor Bob

Lenten Worship Schedule 2012

2012-01-29T15:14:00.002-05:00

Wednesdays – 6:00 pm Soup & Sandwich

7:00 pm Worship

2012– The CAPA Lenten Series

“From wheredoes my help come . . . ?” – Psalm 121

February 29 United Methodist of Chatham Gary De Witt

Mount Ararat – Noah Genesis 8:1-5, 13-17, 20-21

March 7 Payne AME Drew Paton

Mount Moriah – Abraham & Isaac Genesis 22:1-18

March 14 St.Peter’s Presbyterian Gary Gelfenbien

Mount Sinai – Moses Exodus 24:1-18

March 21 Canaan Congregational Robert Isaksen

Mount Horeb – Elijah 1 Kings 19:1-15a

March 28 Christ our Emmanuel Lutheran Mark Longhurst

Mount of Olives – Jesus Matthew 24:1-14

Theme: “Often we receive perspective for our lives from a divine vantage place.”

Thrivent Summit

2012-01-27T20:49:00.003-05:00

The Thrivent Financial for Lutheran Northeast Region would like to invite you to the upcoming 2012 Community Leader Summit. This event will bring together our Chapter Leaders and Congregational Advocates. We will cover 2012 Thrivent Financial messaging, idea sharing as well as chapter planning. Please share this e-mail with all your fellow board members and Congregational Advocates.

You are welcome to attend the following summit:

 Saturday, February 25th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Polish Community Center (lunch provided)
225 Washington Ave Ext., Albany, NY 12205

Posted for Pastor Bob

Broken Rope

2012-01-15T15:39:00.002-05:00

If you missed church today, you missed some action!
Thanks for the photo, Mrs. J.

Jesus v Christians

2012-01-14T16:27:00.001-05:00

What people reallythink. Jesus vs. Christians

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YztvjePz0uk

Posted for Pastor Bob

Alexis Bervy, Jr.

2012-01-04T09:11:00.000-05:00

Our hearts go out to the family of Alexis Bervy Jr. who passed away on 1/1/2012 at age 90 years. The funeral will be Saturday 1/7/2012 at 10 am at our church. Calling hours are Friday eve 1/6/12 from 4-7pm at Wenk funeral home.
Here is the obituary from the Register Star:
Alexis Bervy Jr. 90 a longtime resident of East Chatham died Sunday at Barnwell Nursing Home. Mr. Bervy born October 7,1921 in Nantucket, Ma. is the son of the late Alexis and Dunia (Nazarenko) Bervy Sr.
He graduated from Chatham High School. He went to work on the family operated Dairy farm which He and his family took over and named it Sunnyside Farm until his retirement in 1988.
Mr. Bervy served as Building Inspector for the Town of Canaan . For many years He delivered parts for Chatham Auto Parts. Mr. Bervy was a life member of the Canaan Conservation Club and life member of the East Chatham Fire Dept.
A devoted family man and an avid fan of all sports.
He is survived by 3 Daughters, Annette Demitraszek of Ravena, N.Y., Dona Bervy and husband Richard Knott of East Chatham, Sonya Zingo and husband Robert of Rochester, N. Y. 2 Sons Alexis Bervy III and wife Patty of East Chatham, Nicholas and wife Lori of East Chatham, Brother Serge Bervy Sr. of Austerlitz, and sister Eugenia Walter of Tampa, Fl. Survived also by 9 Grandchildren and five Great Grandchildren.
Mr. Bervy was predeceased by his wife Lillian and brother Maxim Bervy.
Funeral Service will be held Saturday 10:00am from the Christ Our Emmanuel Lutheran Church Chatham. Interment will be in the Cemetery of The Evergreens New Lebanon, N.Y. Calling hours will be Friday evening 4 -7 pm from the Wenk Funeral Home Chatham. Memorials may be made to the Canaan Volunteer Fire Co. Canaan, N.Y. 12029 or the East Chatham Fire Dept. East Chatham, N.Y. 12060. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at Barnwell Nursing Home. For on-line condolences visit wenkfuneralhome.com.

Pageant 2011

2011-12-20T09:11:00.003-05:00

Christmas Song & the "W"

2011-12-17T09:46:00.000-05:00

Here's a song that will help you see the mall differently.
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=OExXItDyWEY&vq=medium

And here's a little Christmas Story, sent to me (along with the link above) by a school girl friend of mine from Rockland County. Thanks, Donna!

The "W" in Christmas

Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing, endless baking, decorating, and even overspending.

Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas. Then I attended my kindergarten son's "Winter Pageant."

My son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love" adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters, and bright caps. Those in the front row- center stage - held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the title of the song.

As the class sang "C is for Christmas," a child held up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and so on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas Love."

The performance was going smoothly, until we noticed her; a small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down - totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W".

Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together. A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen.

In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities.

For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear:

"C H R I S T W A S L O V E"

Handicapped Access

2011-12-10T13:42:00.006-05:00

Maybe someone should announce to the paper (or put it on our sign outside) that we are now FULLY handicapped accessible - just in time for this joyous season full of merriment.

Here we see the basement door to the lift and the newly remodeled Rest Room.

Sunday School

2011-12-05T18:20:00.002-05:00

Let me add accolades for the "group" leaders of the Sunday School. It is a amazing and gratifying that we have wonderful goals in mind to encourage the children and help each other build a Sunday School ---sometimes as we remember events from our childhoods and sometimes to embrace exciting ideas and changes.

This "leader group"::::::Kristen, Ellen, Tara, Beverly, Ann, Mckenna, Christa Lordi::::::plan together, learn and make changes as we go, substitute for each other, call on Heidi and Katrina when we need back-up or additional help.................and are so glad parents send their children for Sunday School instruction.

Beverly and Christa will be leading Sunday School in January. The February-June schedule will be discussed soon and forwarded for the blog site. The curriculum materials and companion Bibles have arrived from Augsburg Fortress Press and a training session for leaders will be held in January. Encouragement and ideas from the congregation are always welcome--messages in the offering plate would be great--------please add name and contact information.

In January Christ our Emmanuel's Sunday School will be available for children ages 3-14 every week, 9:45 A.M.

Posted for Christa

A busy December

2011-12-05T08:57:00.006-05:00

Don't forget to check out the Events page to see what's going on on Park Row this Christmas Season. Newly added is the POTLUCK to follow the pageant on Sunday Dec. 18.

Please bring your cameras and video cameras to church. The Sunday School is doing such a beautiful job of bringing the joy of the season to the services. E-mail your images (and videos) to me and I will post them.

Thanks so much to Christa and all the people who work with her for reviving the children's sector of our congregation.

One last thing: If you are not receiving notifications about updates to the website, please give Pastor, Beverly or me (Deb U.) your e-mail address and you will be added to our growing (Yay!) list.

Happy Advent! (It's clickable. You may need to hold down CTRL key and then click.)

silent hallelujah

2011-11-30T11:35:00.000-05:00

The Hallelujah Chorus as you have never heard it sung before.

Silent Monks singing the Hallelujah Chorus

(be sure to click on Full Screen.)

http://voxvocispublicus.homestead.com/Index.html

Thanks, Mac!

World AIDS Day

2011-11-30T08:34:00.002-05:00

World AIDS Day is December 1, 2011.

We are called to confront this pandemic -- whose scale has no precedent in human history.

Thirty million people -- parents, children, spouses, partners, siblings -- have died early and unnecessary deaths.
An entire generation of children in sub-Saharan Africa has been orphaned because of the virus; many of these children have themselves been infected by mother-to-child transmission, a transmission which is preventable with basic medical attention.
ELCA programs in Tanzania teach students marketable skills alongside HIV and AIDS awareness education.
The voice of every Episcopalian and every ELCA member is vital to this work, so we urge you to join our churches' advocacy efforts by becoming members of the Episcopal Public Policy Network or the ELCA e-Advocacy Network.

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Posted for Pastor Bob

A busy December

2011-11-27T19:53:00.006-05:00

Hey! Before I start: Have you seen the new handicapped bathroom in the basement with the sliding door? Awesome! New floor - new toilet - plenty of room. Thanks Guys! & Gal! Linda & Gary started it all off! Mac, Bruce, Hank, Fred & Bob finished it off!! Beautiful job on the woodwork at the lift entrance. We're ready now for the Christmas hoards - bring 'em on. Your tired, your crippled, your poor (too much?) Let me know - I'll take that last part out.

Oh - one more thanks ('tis the season after all): thanks to Herrington's for donating paint to our projects. www.edherrington.com

OK - so here we go:

Don't forget to buy Christmas flowers for $8 by signing up in the back of the church or letting Marcia know.

Not to harp on this but . . . my treasurer days are numbered. I will finish up the 2011 books but we REALLY need someone to take over as of January 1. Give me a call if you would like to talk it over.

Please see the EVENTS tab at the top of the home page for a list of our Christmas Season Activities. ¡Feliz Navidad!

The choir is just getting warmed up. Cate has chosen a lovely simple tune for Christmas night. Won't you join us after church next week to boost our voices to the heavens? Or at least to the North Pole . . .

New Sunday School Page

2011-11-14T23:14:00.001-05:00

Please see the new page in the menu for the current Sunday school activities and schedule.

Thanks, Christa for putting it together!

Singing in Lenox

2011-10-09T13:39:00.001-04:00

Chapel of the Church on the Hill-55 Main St., Lenox MA 01240

Sunday October 16

1:00, introduction, instruction and singing, for newcomers to Shape Notes 2:00 - 4:00, singing for all

Listeners, learners, singers, all welcome. No experience required, come and go as you need to. Songbooks provided, snacks to share.

For more information, call Sally Langendorf at 413 684 0328 or email slangendorf@earthlink.net

Women's Night Out

2011-10-08T20:30:00.000-04:00

Friday, November 4 @ 6:00 @ THE MAIN STREET DINER, 3032 Main Street, Valatie.

Posted for Bev

News from Upstate New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

2011-09-22T08:16:00.002-04:00

Featured below: Pastor Serena, Bishop Jerge, and college & seminary students from our synod, etc. It is a campaign for support. It is well done and tells a powerful story of some of the work being done.

Resurrection people who pray first, walk together and change lives

Upstate Update

Septermber 21, 2011

Watch the video

Feed The Roots of Leadership

October is Feed the Roots of Leadership month. Three sample letters, a logo, a poster and three bulletin inserts (campus, outdoor and seminaries) are now available for use as congregations prepare to communicate this campaign to their members. We invite you to review the samples and use them as it seems appropriate, perhaps choosing from paragraphs here - or there - in planning a letter that suits your intentions for your congregation. We are confident that most every congregation should be able to find a way to participate that matches their congregation's commitment to feeding the roots of leadership for the future of our synod's ministries and the church.

LDR Update - September 21

God of renewing love, sustain those who continue to suffer and rebuild in the aftermath of recent disasters. Bring hope in the midst of despair. Grant patience and endurance to those who bring aid and assistance. Amen

Long Term Recovery - the words speak of work yet to be done, but also of hope for the future. Folks in local communities along with disaster response workers have begun to talk about long term recovery - the process of helping those affected by the wind and rains of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee to rebuild their lives and restore their property. The weeks, months, and years needed to rebuild call for many hands. Long Term Recovery committees will form in the more than 30 counties federally declared as disaster areas.

Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) is an organization that focuses on long term recovery for individuals. While not the first to respond we are known for being one of the last organizations to leave. Individual Lutherans and Lutheran congregations are all part of LDR - promoting hope, healing, and wholeness. You can help by:

Learning about what is needed by attending the Long Term Recovery When Rebuilding is Involved workshop, Oct. 29, Trinity Emmanuel Rochester.
Volunteering as part of a Work Team. Register your team's availability, skills, contact information by email to response@nyvoad.org.
Giving a financial donation to support LDR staff working locally in the long term recovery process and to meet individual unmet needs. Thrivent Financial will match our $15,000 raised by Nov. 1 with an additional $5,000. Send donations to: LDR, Upstate NY Hurricane/Flood Relief, c/o Lutheran Homes Foundation, 108 Utica Rd., Clinton, NY 13323 (Checks payable to "Lutheran Homes Foundation" - please note Upstate NY Hurricane/Flood Relief in the memo line).

Be a part of demonstrating Christ's compassion for all people.

A number of pictures from the storm - flooding damage and the recovery efforts have been posted to our synod's Facebook page. If you have Facebook be sure to "like" us and check them out.

Mission Support Challenge Mailing On Its Way!

A newly redesigned Mission Support Challenge packet is on its way to all congregational presidents by mail, and to pastors via e-mail. Thanks to the work of a dedicated team of pastors and lay persons, the Challenge packet thanks congregations for their ministry and mission over the past year and invites them to provide the following:

Input to the Synod Council as to what the congregation considers to be the most important ministries and functions of the synod as a whole;
A "picture" of missional and other ministries that the congregation has been involved in over the past year as ministry "mission support" - its contribution to the missional ministry of the larger church;
Time to engage in a Bible study through which decision-makers can discern to what degree God is calling them to financially support the ministry of the larger church;
Prayerful consideration of an appropriate plan to incrementally increase mission support; and
Return mailing of the Mission Support Challenge form containing the congregation's pledge for 2012.

Synod Council members will be accompanying congregations in this process through phone calls and/or visits in order to collect the input about synod priorities for ministry and stories about congregational ministry over the past year. These stories will be passed on to Mission Interpreters and the synod news outlets to be shared with others across the synod. Questions? Call your Dean

Mission Support - Where We Are

While it looks like our income falls short of meeting our expenses, the reality is that our mission support is at 50.5% of the projected for the year. Our expenses are at 54.5% of the projected and we have already paid 100% of some expense budget line items. The bottom line is that we are on schedule.

$10,000 for Ministry With Young Adults!

The Upstate New York Synod has been awarded a $10,000 grant for ministry with young adults on our territory. The grant comes from the Lilly endowment and the Eastern Cluster of Seminaries as a continuation of the work of Project Connect to aid young adults gifted for public ministry in vocational discernment. Our team of Key Leaders here in upstate, Pastors Joe McGarry, Shawn Hannon and Amber Malone, in consultation with campus ministers, camp directors and several other capable and enthusiastic pastors from across the state created the following ministry strategy for the funds:

To provide an Annual Mission Trip for Young Adults from across Upstate New York .
To provide an Annual Gathering for Campus Ministers and outstanding student leaders in order for them to network, collaborate, develop their ministries and support one another. This event will be lead by a dynamic campus minister or expert in the field.
To provide Annual (two point) Camp Retreats for Young Adults focused on the topic of vocational discernment and living out of God's call, and our baptismal charge, to let our light shine for others. These will be hosted at our two outdoor ministry campuses.
Continued work by key-leaders to educate pastors and leaders about work and ministry with young adults, issues specific to the millennial generation, and to provide tools to speak about vocation and live out the call to raise up leaders for the church.

Want to be involved? Look for information about the upcoming events on the upstate update and direct questions toward the three Key Leaders. We're excited to use this grant to support our young leaders, so start thinking now about which young adults in your life would benefit from being directed toward these events!

Submitted by Rev. Amber Malone. If you have questions or want to get involved please contact her at pastoramber@gmail.com or (518) 308 8279

10% Youth and Young Adult Goal

In 2009, Churchwide Assembly passed a resolution stating that it is the goal of this church that at least 10% of the voting members of committees, boards and assemblies be youth and young adults. In 2011, about 13% of voting members at CWA were in this age group. How's your congregation doing? How's this synod doing?

As we move into the season of annual meetings and electing voting members for conference and synod assemblies, please consider encouraging youth and young adults to participate in these wider-church venues. Childcare is provided at Synod Assembly for those with young children. CONVO and Y'ALL offer a deep, faith formative experience within the Synod Assembly framework.

For more information or to share your thoughts, please contact Pastor Laurie Carson-Nelson, Synod LYO Advisor, at pastorlcn@gmail.com.

Tidbits

Bishop Jerge will be visiting each of the Conferences. The upcoming fall dates that have been set are:

Central Crossroads:

Oct. 5

Morning: Luther Memorial with rostered leaders

Niagara Frontier:

Oct. 19

Lunch at First English, Lockport
Evening at St. John's, Amherst

Oct. 20

Morning with rostered leaders at First English, Lockport

Oct. 29

Evening at First, Blasdell

Southwestern:

Nov. 8

Lake Chautauqua Lutheran Center

FEMA has the included the tornado into the Hurricane Irene assistance. Those with damage from the tornado, caused by the storm, are eligible to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance. Apply on line at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Deadline to apply is Nov. 4.
The Upstate New York Synod will offer a workshop to train people in telling the story of how we are living our mission to be resurrection people who pray first, walk together and change lives. The workshop will be held on Saturday, October, 15 at Christ the King, Vestal, 9:30 - 2:30. There is no charge to attend. Lunch and resources will be provided free of charge. Whether you are an experienced Mission Interpreter or are new to this ministry, plan to attend. To learn more contact Denise Ballou, Synod Coordinator, 315-652-8956, nene57622@hotmail.com and download the brochure here.
New educational opportunities are available, including a new training from Roy M. Oswald and the Center for EQ-HR Skills and a webinar from the Board of Pensions regarding benefits, in our Growing in Faith blog.

Pray First

Please hold the following people, their families, friends and caregivers in prayer.

Prayers of Thanksgiving

For all those who participated in this year's Synod Ministerium and the leadership of Mr. Mark Betley and Rev. Greg Tennermann

For Debora Stein on her ordination in the New England Synod on Sept.17th and her installation at St. Stephen, Syracuse coming up on Oct. 9th

Rev. David Johnson was received onto the roster of the ELCA (from the Reformed Church in America) and was installed as Pastor of St. Paul's, St. Johnsville on Sept. 18

Prayers of Healing

For Nancy Almleaf, wife of Rev. David Almleaf (Grace, Johnstown)

A Prayer for those continuing recovery efforts from the recent storms and flooding

Merciful God, hear our cry for your mercy in the wake of recent storms and resulting flooding. Reveal your presence in the midst of our suffering. Help us to trust in your promises of hope and life so that desperation and grief do not overtake us. Come quickly to our aid that we may know peace and joy again. Strengthen us in this time of trial with the assurance of hope that we know in the death and resurrection of your Son. Amen.

Trexler Deadline

Samuel Trexler Fellowship Fund grants will be decided on at the October Synod Council meeting. Applications will be accepted through September 30, 2011. This fund was established "to enable Lutheran pastors and seminary students scholarships for specialized programs of study in the United States or abroad in any field pertaining to the life and thought of the church." You may download the pamplet with more information on this grant and an application here. Any questions, please contact Karen Brundige at the Synod office.

Links

Synod Website

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ELCA

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Living Lutheran

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The Lutheran

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Board of Pensions

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Mission Investment Fund

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AugsburgFortress.org

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WeAreSparkHouse.org

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FortressPress.com

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Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia

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Capital Region Theological Center

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NEFOSA

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Join our Mailing List

Contact Information

Neal F. Fischer, Director of Communications, nfischer@upstatenysynod.org

Phone: 315-446-2502 Fax: 315-446-4642

The Upstate New York Synod Online

For the latest synod information be sure to visit our website, http://upstatenysynod.org. Also, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/upstatenysynod, Facebook at http://facebook.com/upstatenysynod and YouTube at http://youtube.com/upstatenysynodelca.

The Greatest Story: Bible Introduction, Leader Pack

This bundle includes everything required for those who lead The Greatest Story: Bible Introduction. The The Leader Guide features a Core Session plan (60 minutes) and an Our Story conversation plan (45-60 minutes) that can be run consecutively in a single meeting time, or broken into separate meeting times. Each session provides suggested background reading from Lutheran Study Bible, Bible overviews, and storytelling scripts.

The Session DVD features the sand art depictions of the Bible story by renowned artist Joe Castillo. Each session video brings the story to life as the image continuously transforms from one element of the story to another. The Greatest Story Leader Reference CD-ROM supports participants as they experience the big-picture overview of the Bible. It features maps and timelines to encourage discussion and understanding of the times and places of the Bible while giving participants the opportunity to trace the journeys of Abraham, Sarah, and more!

Posted for Pastor Bob

Sunday School is Energized!

2011-09-15T09:04:00.005-04:00

Sunday School this year will be provided for two ages of children: pre-reader and reader.

The first day?

Sunday, October 2, 2011 Christ our Emmanuel's Rally Day.

The focus?

provide insight into the BIBLE
make the classes fun and interesting
listen and let the children's needs guide curriculum decisions

Don't forget!!

DATE: OCTOBER 2nd

TIME: 9:45-10:30 (on "Rally Day" there will be about a 15 minute over-run until 10:45-10:50)

PLACE: CHRIST our EMMANUEL LUTHERAN BASEMENT ROOM

The Kick-off?

a craft-project noise-maker to begin the first day as a rally.
The children will gather downstairs to complete the "corn shaker" (all hands helping if possible--it needs to be completed by about 10:15 ), then come upstairs after Pastor has opened the service to parade-in and be introduced with all of us to the congregation.

The Schedule?

Sunday School leaders: October 2011 through January 2012::

(No Sunday School on weeks when the public schools have a closing:Oct. 9th, Nov. 13th, Nov. 27th, Dec. 25th, Jan. 1st, Jan. 15th)

October: Tara Groom with Mckenna Jackson (back-up: Heidi Brennan)

November: Ellen Dykeman with Ann Jackson (back-up: Katrina)

December: Kristen Bervy (preparations for Christmas pageant) (back-up: Christa)

January: Christa Lordi with Ellen Dykeman (back-up: Beverly)

SUNDAY SCHOOL WEEKLY FORMAT:

9:30 AM Leader arrive at church and prepare SS room

9:45 Children arrive

9:50 Opening prayer, song, news

(Kristen to lead as often as she is available)

10:05 Two groups: pre-readers and readers

lesson sheets/story book/ pictures etc. with Bible reference

as prepared by leaders

10:30 Children close w/ prayer & return upstairs to parents for communion

Leaders will review and get feed-back from the children on the last Sunday each month for continuing suggestions for the next leaders. A short assessment meeting will be held directly after the regular church service for all leaders on that last Sunday of each month.

EVERYONE---let me know suggestions, pitfalls--anything constructive

Posted for Christa

Sunday School & Rally Sunday

2011-09-13T11:06:00.000-04:00

Rally Day will be Sunday, October 2 starting @ 9:45 AM.

Posted for Bev

Organist & Tenants needed

2011-09-11T21:05:00.003-04:00

Know a keyboard player? We need an organist/piano player.

Also the apartment is empty. New tenants are needed. 3 bedrooms. $950 plus utilities.

Storm & Flood Response

2011-09-11T20:59:00.001-04:00

Pastoral Letter From Bishop Jerge - Storm and Flood Response

September 8, 2011

Dear friends and colleagues,

Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy. Lord have mercy.

The Kyrie keeps echoing through my mind and heart every time I see or hear yet another weather or flooding alert on radio, TV or e-mail. And now after more rain yesterday Montgomery County and Schoharie are in states of emergency, there are evacuations in the Binghamton, Scotia and Amsterdam and parts of the NYS Thruway are closed again. And by the time you receive this communication the waters of the Mohawk, Schoharie and Susquehanna Rivers will have risen further.

The flooding has affected a wider area this time and so in addition to our brothers and sisters in New Jersey, we add Upper and Lower Susquehanna Synods who are now putting together their disaster response teams as Susquehanna River rises. As Beth Yenchko, Interim DEM, begins her work here in Upstate New York, she is receiving reports that her home in Harrisburg is flooded.

We have stood and will continue to walk with and assist as we're able those who are in areas that are affected. Patsy Glista, AIM, our Disaster Relief Coordinator has been tirelessly at work making contacts and connections, visiting flood sites, and activating the network that she helped to create to respond in these times of need. Thank you to Lutheran Care, Clinton for their cooperation in these efforts and their investment through the years in helping to build the Synod's Disaster Response network. The ELCA Lutheran Disaster Response folks have been a source of encouragement, information and emergency help as well. An experienced Disaster Coordinator will soon arrive in Upstate New York to help coach and mentor those who will be working with the long-term rebuilding efforts here. Conference Deans have been tracking and praying with individuals. People are stepping up to help in the midst of the storm and from across the synod.

St. Luke's, Sidney is filled to capacity as an emergency shelter. Members of St. Paul's, Richmondville and Zion, Cobleskill are volunteering in shelters and other capacities. King of Kings, Liverpool sent a team of workers over Labor Day weekend to begin the process of mucking out the mud. St. John's, W. Seneca has a crew ready to go to Middleburgh next week (assuming plans don't change with the new floods.) People in Niagara Frontier, Genesee Finger Lakes and Central Crossroads are gathering flood buckets. As soon as I finish this letter I will be working the phones to make connections with caregivers and those affected.

What you can do:

Pray - Please continue to pray for those whose lives have been impacted by the floods, particularly those communities that are being evacuated or flooded for the second time. Some of our congregations include Bethany, Central Bridge; St. Paul's, Oak Hill; and Christ the King, Vestal. Remember Hector and Cindy Rivera, Beth Yenchko and Pastors William Hodgetts, Norma Malfatti and Dennis Meyer. Pray for the caregivers who continue in emergency mode - particularly Patsy Glista and Elaine Berg (Foothills Conference Dean.)

Give - donations to LDR, Upstate NY Hurricane/Flood Relief, may be sent c/o Lutheran Homes Foundation, 108 Utica Rd., Clinton, NY 13323. ELCA Lutheran Disaster Response are always welcome as well. (see ELCA website).

Gather materials - see September 7th Upstate Update on our website for details regarding Flood Bucket donation sites.

Volunteer - Volunteers with experience in clean-up and mucking out are needed now. With mold and water soaked buildings it is important for those doing clean up to use proper procedures and care. Don't worry- there will be plenty of work opportunities in the months to come in the re-building. You may e-mail availability to admin@nyvoad.org providing type of assistance you can provide and contact info.

My deep thanks to Patsy Glista and Neal Fischer who have been providing outstanding communication to you in the last weeks. Future updates will be made through the biweekly Upstate Updates and in a more timely fashion through our website, Facebook page and Twitter account outlets.

Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy. Lord have mercy.

Grace and peace,

Rev. Marie C. Jerge

Bishop, Upstate New York Synod

Contact Information

Neal F. Fischer, Director of Communications, nfischer@upstatenysynod.org

Phone: 315-446-2502 Fax: 315-446-4642

Upstate New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

The Upstate New York Synod Online

For the latest synod information be sure to visit our website, http://upstatenysynod.org.

Also, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/upstatenysynod,

Facebook at http://facebook.com/upstatenysynod,

and YouTube at http://youtube.com/upstatenysynodelca.

Living Lutheran Contest Winner

2011-08-19T13:41:00.000-04:00

http://www.livinglutheran.com/contest/the-everyday-life.html

Posted for Pastor Bob

Upcoming

2011-08-01T17:40:00.001-04:00

There will be a funeral for Cora Jennings at our church on Saturday morning at 10.

The cluster picnic will be at Crellin following the church service at the park starting at 11. There will be no service at church. Our congregation is asked to bring drinks - soda and water- and coolers. everyone also brings a dish to pass and lawn chairs. Have a good one.

Posted for Marcia

Evening Blessing

2011-07-26T08:48:00.000-04:00

The Evening blessing

from The Small Catechism

I give thanks to you, heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ your dear Son, that you have graciously protected me today. I ask you to forgive me all my sins, where I have done wrong, and graciously to protect me tonight. Into your hands I commend myself: my body, my soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel be with me, so that the wicked foe may have no power over me. Amen.

Then, Martin Luther advises, you are to go to sleep quickly and cheerfully.

ELW

2011-07-03T16:36:00.003-04:00

The Council has approved a plan to gradually acquire copies of Evangelical Lutheran Worship (ELW), the official worship book of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Once we get an adequate supply, we might consider ways to shorten the Sunday bulletin.

The books cost $22.50 each and can be purchased for personal use at home or for use here at the church. They can be designated to be in honor or in memory of loved ones. Please speak with Pastor Bob or a Council Member for further info. Pastor will bring his copy each week for you to peruse.

A living Lutheran Creed

2011-06-23T07:58:00.004-04:00

Lutherans often describe their congregations with words like 'friendly', 'welcoming' or 'hospitable'. Super and probably true, but I consider this to be part of our Lutheran problem. These are lovely but reactionary descriptions of God's people. They all require others to make the first move.

It's hard to initiate - to meet people outside, to tell our story, to be proud proclaimers when our (spiritual) heritage prefers stoicism and quiet humility. But maybe it would be easier and FUN to practice making that first move together.

What if a bunch of Lutherans - I mean a bunch - all make signs stating something we believe in and all stand on corners in our neighborhoods on the same day at the same time? What if church and community leaders got people together with markers and pieces of used cardboard to talk about what we stand for and what our faith means? And what if we all got outside our walls at the same time forming a really, really big creed?

And what if people bump into it? People will drive by, see us and have all kinds of reactions. They might notice that we were holding messages of abundance in spots that usually scream scarcity or that instead of asking for money, we're just saying something that's true. They might be annoyed. Or they might be curious. We might be awkward. Or we might be awakened.

So I'm throwing it out there. Tell your synod office. Put it in your church newsletter. Make it your own - the idea is vague and that's the whole point. This experiment has just two goals:

1) To stretch us. Standing outside inviting other people to notice us because of our faith might feel scary or strange. We might draw a blank when figuring out what to write on our signs...and that might spark important conversations. But if a bunch of us try it together and then share our stories, it could be really really interesting. I'll make sure a blog or Facebook page is born so people can share photos and experiences - perhaps encouraging a second outing.

2) To many non-Lutherans, we are simply potluck people who listen to Garrison Keillor. Showing people driving/walking/biking by that we are more than a culture - we are people of faith - couldn't hurt.

So I propose a date for those who wish to join in. Saturday, September 10th (10am-noon CST). The next morning is Sunday and everyone will be figuring out what to do with the fact that 9/11 happened ten years ago. I can't think of a better way to be 'friendly' and 'welcoming' and 'hospitable' than by meeting people where they are the day before and reminding them that Church is a people and place where we hash this stuff out. Of course, any day will do.

Any takers? I sure hope so.

But if it's just me and my kid standing near a freeway ramp, that's still something. :)

Posted for Pastor Bob

New Page on the blog

2011-06-20T14:44:00.003-04:00

I've added a new page to the church blog - Events. (See it in the menu along the top?)

So far I have included our two picnics. I will add the tag sale when I find out the date.

What else would you like to see here?

2011 Upstate New York Synod Assembly

2011-06-11T10:35:00.002-04:00

Upstate New York Synod - Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
God’s work. Our hands.
Service, business, and worship blended as never before when 446 Resurrection People gathered in Rochester for the 2011 Upstate New York Synod Assembly. A large baptismal font and cross welcomed them to the space used for both worship and business. Another 493 visited via the Internet.
Doing justice “God is always sending us strangers to open our eyes to God’s grace and compassion.” Keynote speaker Peter Vogelaar, Executive Director of the Mohawk Valley Resource Center for Refugees in Utica, New York urged and challenged the assembly to take a risk by offering hospitality to and accepting hospitality from those who are different from us, right in our own communities.
He brought with him two women, originally from Burma, who demonstrated their mastery of backstrap weaving at the Mission Faire.
Inspiring devotions were offered by people from different conferences engaged in a variety of servant ministries. We heard about an “Iron Chef” competition for ELCA World Hunger at St. John/St. Mark, Canajoharie; a community prayer service after a mass shooting at Redeemer, Binghamton; advocacy on behalf of children by Cherish Our Children; ministry with foster teens and elderly adults at Lutheran Social Services in Jamestown; health-related and neighborhood
outreach by Resurrection in the inner city of Buffalo; energy conservation measures at Redeemer, Scotia; and a new cooperation between Faith, Cicero and Vera House to combat domestic violence.
While many attended workshops and the Mission Faire, some voting members opted for servant
events in the community. One group went to Foodlink, a food distribution center in downtown
Rochester, to label and pack food for various community programs. Another group went to
RAIHN (The Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network) to paint, clean, and wash the bus used to transport homeless families working towards sustainable fi nancial independence.
Where there’s a well, there’s a way - Congregation members brought offerings of $47,229!!! (including a gift from Thrivent) to build wells and provide clean water through Lutheran World Relief.
Empowered to Serve Assembly Wrap Up - June 5, 6 & 7, 2011
“He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8
Keynote Sp eaker - Peter Vogelaar

Assembly Actions
Adopted the 2012 Mission Proposal and a resolution urging congregations to increase giving for world hunger.
Sent two memorials to the ELCA Churchwide Assembly to confront bullying and to decrease cuts to campus ministry.
Assembly attendees do service at Foodlink 110 Hinsdale Road, Camillus, NY 13031 (315) 446-2502
www.upstatenysynod.org
Loving kindness The Rev. Terry Walsh, the ELCA chaplain stationed at Fort Drum, NY, received 2,541 “prayer squares” to be distributed to soldiers. Walsh explained that as soldiers board
planes bound for active duty in a combat zone, the last person to bid them farewell is the chaplain. That chaplain will be giving prayer squares to soldiers as signs that they are loved by God and prayed for by one of our resurrection people.
Ms. Marcia Brown received the Congregational Discipleship Award and former synodical vice-president Mr. David Truland received the Synodical Discipleship Award recognizing their outstanding contributions to the life of the church. The Rev. Charles Greene and the Rev. Norman Heid were honored for the fi ftieth anniversary of their ordinations.
Walking humbly with God The Rev. Daniel Rift, Director for ELCA World Hunger and Disaster Appeal, took up the theme of serving the stranger in time of need in his sermon at Monday
evening’s Eucharist. Bishop Marie Jerge presided and Vice-President Thomas Madden assisted. Written prayers swung from the processional cross and the Eucharist was served on ceramic tableware created by a fi rst communion class at Hope, Arcade. Two master carpenters
assembled an altar on the spot as part of the offering for the worship service.

Dr. Robert Lebel of King of Kings, Liverpool led two workshops and a public discussion on Genetics, Faith and Responsibility, the Proposed ELCA Social Statement. The statement will be considered at the Churchwide Assembly to be held this August. Find out more at http://elca.org/genetics.
ELCA Military Chaplain Terry Walsh thanks assembly for prayer squares “Spokes-persons” from across the synod rode their bikes into the assembly hall launching the “Feed the Roots of Leadership” capital campaign. Despite a few crashes and mishaps along the way, their enthusiasm for the cause was contagious. They rode to support outdoor ministry, campus ministry, and seminaries—three key ministries where leaders are developed for the present and the future of the church. Friendship Lutheran Church in Amherst courageously chose to close their congregation and use the proceeds to make a $200,000 gift to the campaign.
Help feed the roots of leadership.

For more information visit http://upstatenysynod.org/capital-campaign today.
CONVO and Y’ALL shared their musical and other talents. Altar being built during service. New Synod Priority in 2011-2012 HEALTH AND WELLNESS We are committed to creating a healthy and vibrant synod, promoting healthy and missional congregations, and forming and supporting healthy leaders.

Resurrection people who pray fi rst, walk together and change lives

Video Contest

2011-06-11T10:33:00.000-04:00

Help give your congregation or ministry a financial boost this year!
The 2011 ELCA Video Contest is officially underway. Enter now and you could win a $3,000 ministry grant or a $1,500 cash prize. We also have cash prizes for the most popular congregation and individual video entries.
Grab a camera and tell us what it means to "live Lutheran." It's quick and easy to enter. Visit www.livinglutheran.com/contest for information and tips to help you get started.
Hurry! The contest ends June 30. We can't wait to hear your faith story!
God's peace,

Scott J. Hendrickson
Director of Marketing Communications
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
www.elca.org
www.livinglutheran.com

Upstate New York Synod

2011-06-01T21:54:00.000-04:00

Over 40 people from Hudson Mohawk congregations and the deacon committee gathered on May 21 and 22 at St. Luke's, Valatie for the Upstate New York Synod's third Transforming Congregations retreat. The work of the Holy Spirit was evident through the vibrant energy and forthright conversations of those participating. They studied the book of Acts and used what they learned to develop church-specific plans for congregational transformation. The theme of the Transforming Congregation's Team - God changes people, changed people change churches and changed churches change the world - was the retreat's refrain throughout the weekend.

The participants engaged in a variety of large and small group conversations. Learning activities focused on themes such as mission, vision, identifying congregational assets and learning to negotiate change in congregations. All discussions and activities were grounded in prayer, worship, and scripture.

The Transforming Congregation's Team is a ministry of the Upstate New York Synod that is available to all congregations. The Transforming Congregation Team seeks to partner with other conferences throughout the synod and hopes to raise up additional leaders who would be instrumental in bringing this retreat to other settings. To learn more please contact Pastor Dave Preisinger at dpreisinger@upstatenysynod.org or phone 518-331-3416.

June 12 - a special Sunday

2011-05-29T14:42:00.000-04:00

Everyone is invited to a special celebration service honoring Pastor Bob's 50th anniversary of his ordination AND Pastor and Beverly's 50th year of marriage! A special catered luncheon will take place following the Sunday service on June 12. Come one, come all! They are preparing for a large crowd.

Notes from the Synod

2011-05-13T19:19:00.000-04:00

Upstate New York Synod

Assembly Update

Resurrection people who pray first, walk together and change lives.

May 12, 2011

Workshops and Educational Opportunities for June 6, 2011

On Monday, June 6th, we will have several hours for you to learn more about ministry on the local level, the synod level and the global church level.

These options include:

Mission Faire:

* Spend some time looking at the displays of the various ministries Extended Workshops:

* Two and a half hour long workshops with two options:

* Youth Ministry

* Preparing for disasters

Workshops:

* Two sessions with a variety of options Mini-Service Opportunities:

* Get involved in hands on opportunities to serve while attending the assembly

* FOODLINK- Help our a local food bank. Volunteers will help pack food for distribution to various agencies that are supplied by FoodLink, located at 936 Exchange St., Rochester. Max - 30 participants

* RAIHN(The Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network) - Wear your work clothes and come help paint, clean and wash the bus at RAIHN, a not-for-profit, non-denominational group of faith communities helping homeless families achieve sustainable independence.

(Space is limited for the Mini-Service Opportunities. Please sign up at the registration desk through Noon on Monday, June 6.)

Servant Conversations/Town Hall

* An opportunity for sharing beyond the workshops From genetics to stewardship, world hunger to the spirituality of older adults, there is something for everyone. The toughest part will be deciding which to attend.

A Recording to Help Prepare You for Assembly

Rev. Diane Wheatley (St. Paul's, Liverpool) prepared and recorded information

about this year's Synod Assembly. Click here to listen to this fifteen minute

recording to help you prepare for the assembly. You can download this

recording for playback on your mp3 player. (to download right click on Windows

or control click on Apple here and save this file)

Assembly Worship

"This year's theme, Empowered to Serve, calls us to be the church in our

communities, to live out our faith in our communities. It calls us to move out

of our church buildings and be the public church; to share our faith and the

love of God in service to our neighbors. Our Eucharist service will offer a

time of knowing God's presence in the midst of our work as we worship and do

our business in the same space. Congregations are invited to help us

transform our business space into worship space.

Each congregation is invited to bring a simple worship arrangement to put on a

table in Empire North. Tables measure 18 inches by 8 feet. We suggest an 18 -

20 inch square of cloth to which can be added anything from a flower in a vase

to a cross or other items. Please no lit candles and keep the arrangements low

so that people behind can see.

Voices are also needed to join the choir for our Eucharist worship. The anthem

will be How Lovely Are the Messengers by Felix Mendelssohn. Rehearsals will be

on Sunday, 6/5 at 4:00pm and Monday, 6/6 at 6:30pm just before our 7:30pm

worship. If interested please send your name & contact information along with

the voice part to our choir director and organist, Michael Unger,

at michaelunger@hotmail.com."

Synod Assembly Registration Now Open

Empowered to Serve

June 5 - 7, 2011

This year's assembly will again be held at the Rochester Riverside Convention

Center. The assembly will run from Sunday, June 5th to Tuesday, June 7th. We

are offering online registration through the synod website. Paper registrations

are available on the website here or by calling the Syracuse office at

315-446-2502.Your registration is not complete until payment has been received.

Preregistration ends on Friday, May 27, 2011. After that registrations will

only be taken at the assembly registration desk.

Once again we will be using the Radisson Hotel Rochester Riverside for hotel

accommodations. The room rate remains the same as last year at $98.00 per

night. Deadline to book at hotel is May 1st. You must call to book the

reservation and ask for the Synod Assembly rate. HOTEL RESERVATIONS MUST BE

MADE DIRECTLY THROUGH THE HOTEL AND ARE NOT INCLUDED WITH REGISTRATION.

Hotel Information:

Radisson Hotel Rochester Riverside

120 East Main Street

Rochester, NY 14604

(585) 546-6400

In This Issue

Workshops and Educational Opportunities for June 6, 2011

A Recording to Help Prepare You for Assembly

Assembly Worship

Synod Assembly Registration Now Open

CONVO Registration

The 2011 CONVO Registration is open. This event is open to youth in grades

9-12. Downloadand return the registration form by April 16th and the cost is

$260, $285 thereafter. A $50 dollar deposit is required. Pastors please

downloadand display the flyer.

For questions about CONVO and financial aid contact Pastor Laurie Carson-Nelson

716-799-4017 (Cell or text) or by email pastorlcn@gmail.com.

For questions about registration contact Rick Mollenkopf-Grill 716-465-1321 or

by email rick@nfclyo.org.

Y'ALL Registration

The 2011 Y'ALL Registration is open. This event is open to men and women ages

18-35. If you are interested please Download and return the registration form

by April 16th and the cost is $260. A $50 dollar deposit is required. Pastors

please download and display the flyer.

For questions about registration or if you are interested in coming only

Friday - Sunday or financial aid please contact Pastor Joe McGarry at

315-935-7240 (Cell or text) or by emailpastormcgarry@gmail.com.

Assembly Service Project

Helpus make Military prayer squares for Fort Drum servicemembers. Bring them

with you to assembly. Directions can be found on the website.

Quick Links

ELCA.org

Upstate New York Synod

For the latest synod information be sure to visit our website,

http://upstatenysynod.org. Also, follow us on Twitter at

http://twitter.com/upstatenysynod.

Posted for Pastor Bob

Bishop Hanson on recent events

2011-05-03T08:17:00.001-04:00

CHICAGO (ELCA) -- Responding to the May 1 news of Osama bin Laden's death, the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), said bin Laden's death "is an occasion for solemn remembrance."
Hanson addressed his May 2 statement to ELCA members. He focused his comments on those who died because of bin Laden's choices "of hatred and violence," and those who continue to mourn the deaths of loved ones.
Hanson also said "joy finds its fullest and deepest expression not over a human death, but in God’s promise to unite all things in heaven and on earth, to reconcile the human family and to bring God’s reign of peace."
The full text of the ELCA presiding bishop's statement:

Sisters and brothers in Christ,

The death of Osama bin Laden is an occasion for solemn remembrance. We remember the lives of all whose deaths resulted from his choosing hatred and violence. We stand with those who continue to mourn the death of loved ones while giving thanks for their lives, their love and their faith. We also continue to hold in prayer all whose service in the military, in government and in humanitarian and peacemaking activities contribute to a safer and more prosperous world.

At the same time we also recall who we are: people baptized into Christ, freed to serve our neighbors. We are people called as Christ’s ambassadors of reconciliation with our neighbors, serving God’s work of restoring community. We engage our neighbors of other faiths, including our Muslim neighbors near and far, in respectful, searching dialogue and shared commitment to build a world that reflects God’s will for peace with justice. We pray for our neighbors, even those who are our enemies.

Most of all, in these 50 days of celebrating Christ’s resurrection, joy finds its fullest and deepest expression not over a human death but in God’s promise to unite all things in heaven and on earth, to reconcile the human family and to bring God’s reign of peace. Confident in what God has promised, we witness our resolve against any act of violence in the name of religion and our renewed commitment of service to the neighbors and world God so deeply loves.

In God’s grace,

Mark S. Hanson

THE STAGES OF FAITH

2011-05-02T16:00:00.001-04:00

by John Westerhoff III in Will Our Children Have Faith
A simplified outline by Brian Stoffregen.
Stage 1: RECEIVED FAITH has two parts:
(1) EXPERIENCED FAITH (preschool & early childhood) -- imitating actions, e.g., a child praying the Lord's Prayer without understanding the meaning of all the words -- "This is what we do. This is how we act."
1. AFFILIATIVE FAITH (childhood & early adolescent years) -- belonging to a group, which still centers on imitating what the group does -- "This is what we believe and do. This is our group/church."
Stage 2: SEARCHING FAITH (late adolescence) -- asking questions, "Is this what I believe?" This stage of faith is adding the "head" to the "heart" of the earlier stages. Westerhoff comments:
It appears, regretfully, that many adults in the church have never had the benefit of an environment which encouraged searching faith. And so they are often frightened or disturbed by adolescents who are struggling to enlarge their affiliative faith to include searching faith. Some persons are forced out of the church during this state and, sadly, some never return; others remain in searching faith the rest of their lives. In any case, we must remember that persons with searching faith still need to have all the needs of experienced and dependent faith met, even though they may appear to have cast them aside. And surely they need to be encouraged to remain within the faith community during their intellectual struggle, experimentation, and first endeavors at commitment.
The questioning stage can lead into the two directions. -- Will the questioner become unbelieving or move onto the next stage of faith? This age-level of "questioning faith" is also the age-level when most cult groups recruit their members and when many "drop-out" of church.
Stage 3: OWNED FAITH (early adulthood) -- this stage comes only through the searching stage. After exploring the question, "Is this what I believe?" one discovers a Christian answer that declares: "This is what I believe." This is the strong, personal faith that one witnesses to and one is willing to die for.
Posted for Pastor Bob

Donations for Doug

2011-05-02T15:51:00.002-04:00

Doug would like to be reimbursed for his expenses for putting the directory together. He says $100. I think it should probably be more . . . but whatever you would like to give you can include in your "directory donation" envelope or in a separately marked one.
I intend to make an executive decision and write him out a check for $100 as Master Treasurer WebMaster - well unless I hear from you guys who tell me otherwise.

Maybe you could weigh in - agree or disagree? Do we have to complicate matters and make this a council matter?

See what happens when you hand the checkbook over to me? Your turn soon. Belly up!

Choir & special guest

2011-04-28T13:45:00.002-04:00

Choir rehearsal has been moved to Wednesdays at 7pm beginning May 4. We need more voices!

FLASH.......This Sunday we have a special guest, David Dumais from St.John,

St.Matthew, Emanuel Lutheran Church, [They call it JME], will sing the song I

referred to in last year's Doubting Thomas Sunday sermon, "I don't believe it.",

and Beverly sang it last year. Dave Dumais along with Richard Miller, retired

pastor of St.JME wrote the song. He will be at Christ our Emmanuel this Sunday

to sing it for us. It is a very dramatic rendition of the faith struggle of

Thomas, and by implication,of many of us, to believe. He will be accompanied by

Robert Giddings on guitar. He happens to be my son-in-law. Call your friends and

neighbors to join us this Sunday. The song moves me. -- Pr.Bob I

Synod Assembly Registration Now Open

2011-04-28T13:43:00.001-04:00

We should be represented at the assembly with 1 male & 1 female voting members + pastor.

Anyone interested in this experience.?

Empowered to Serve

June 5 - 7, 2011

This year's assembly will again be held at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. The assembly will run from Sunday, June 5th to Tuesday, June 7th. We are offering online registration through the synod website. Paper registrations are available on the website here or by calling the Syracuse office at 315-446-2502.

Registrations postmarked or completed online by April 30th will receive a ten dollar early registration discount on the registration only (not meals). Time is almost up. Please see registration materials for how to handle this on the paper version. The online version will reflect this discount automatically. Your registration is not complete until payment has been received. Preregistration ends on Friday, May 27, 2011. After that registrations will only be taken at the assembly registration desk.

Once again we will be using the R adisson Hotel Rochester Riverside for hotel accommodations. The room rate remains the same as last year at $98.00 per night. Deadline to book at hotel is May 1st. You must call to book the reservation and ask for the Synod Assembly rate. HOTEL RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE DIRECTLY THROUGH THE HOTEL AND ARE NOT INCLUDED WITH REGISTRATION.

Hotel Information:

Radisson Hotel Rochester Riverside
120 East Main Street
Rochester, NY 14604
(585) 546-6400

Posted for Pastor Bob

Maundy Thursday 2011

2011-04-22T07:43:00.002-04:00

Helen at the harp. Beautiful!

Maundy Thursday

2011-04-17T11:51:00.001-04:00

Service at 7! Hope you can make it.

Silent volunteer of the week:

Carol Bergen - Thanks for all you do each week. The church wouldn't run as smoothly as it does without you.

Sunny Sunday - April 2011

2011-04-03T12:57:00.011-04:00

Liz handed out Pampered Chef catalogs. Order something or get others to buy from you. That's the idea. This is a fundraiser for the church.
Ann! Oy! Those cranberry-almond scones - to beat the band (but not the newly formed choir - we need voices - join!) and a mound of fruit that made me wish I had my camera with me. Now last year's bathing suit will NEVER fit. (Am I allowed to say "bathing suit" here?)
Richard's got Fair Trade coffee for sale. Decaf on the way. D E L I C I O U S . . .
Money for Easter flowers - remember
Patty, Thanks so much for the Treasurer work you have done. When I did it years ago, the church was less active and it was much easier. Remember Folks, I have only taken over Patty's term for 2011 - in 2012 we'll need new blood. Don't be shy! If you can balance your own checkbook, you can do it.
Marcia, Thanks for taming Johann for all those months. How nice you can sit and enjoy the service a bit now. Where would we be without Helen? Wonderful!!! Thank you, H and a big thanks to Barb R for suggesting an organist be added to the budget. I can't think of a better way to spend our moolah.
Do you think I forgot to thank someone again this week? Well, go make your own darn blog . . .
When the directory gets together, I could put it on a password-protected blog if we want. Just a thought.
Next Lenten service: 6pm food/7pm worship: St Peter's in Spencertown - April 6
Now here's my take on Pastor Bob's sermon for what it's worth (referring to my interpretation not his sermon): "I Once was Blind, but Now I See"
The gospel today is about regime change in the Middle East THEN. King Saul was out and was to be replaced by Jesse's shepherd son from Bethlehem. (Imagine the uprising. Even before CNN and texting.)
It was a time of change - from darkness to light.
One day, Jesus and his disciples came upon a blind man; the disciples showed littlecompassion for him. They were more concerned with whose fault it was that the gentleman could not see. Did his parents sin? Did he?
JC: "You guys are missing the point. He was born blind so a lesson could be revealed. At least a blind man acknowledges his limitation and gladly accepts guidance from others, even a dog. The worst blindness belongs to those who think they see the better than others."
Samuel Butler said this too a century ago.
And a hundred years before that, John Newton chimed in when he wrote:
Amazing Grace! How sweet the sound - that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found; was blind, but now I see.
God's people are not necessarily wise and all-knowing (nor are they the greatest singers necessarily-I speak of myself here) but they acknowledge God's intervention in moments of defeat, failure and sorrow.
Thank you, Pastor Bob for a wonderful sermon and for all you and Bev have done - and continue to do.
I wonder why I have so much energy this Sunday afternoon. Could it be the Lutheran coffee?

Thank you, Snack Committee

2011-03-27T13:18:00.001-04:00

Yummy

Big (fat) thanks to Patty, Bev, Liz & Tara for the delicious homemade goodies this month. Mmm...mmm...good!

Electronic Giving Now Available

2011-03-24T14:37:00.000-04:00

The Upstate New York Synod invites you to consider our new electronic giving
program as a way to automate your giving.

Electronic giving offers convenience for individuals and congregations and
provides an opportunity for regular and consistent giving. We anticipate that
electronic giving will appeal to many of our synod's members - from longtime
members who will appreciate an alternative to check writing to younger members
and others who prefer to pay or donate by electronic means whenever possible.

* Direct Debit Giving is used to automatically transfer funds from your
checking or savings account to the synod's bank account. If you are already
using direct debit to make mortgage and car payments or to pay utility bills,
then you know how it works.
* Credit & Debit Card Giving lets you make offerings automatically on a
pre-determined schedule using a credit or debit card. Today, many families use
debit cards as a convenient alternative to checks or use credit cards in a
responsible manner to manage a wide range of obligations.
* Online Giving lets you go to the synod's website to make one-time donations
or to set up a schedule of automatic donations. By setting up a password
protected profile, you will be able to log in at any time to make donations,
change a recurring donation plan or view your personal giving history.As you
contemplate your future contributions, please consider
electronic giving.

Posted for Pastor Bob

John 3:16

2011-03-20T17:25:00.002-04:00

"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."

How this pertains to sports escapes me but here it is so at least we all know what that guy who holds the sign is referring to.

News from Liz:

She will be hosting a Pampered Chef party for the month of April. Proceeds will benefit CoE. She will have catalogs and a website for us soon. Thanks, Liz!

Our 2011 Ecumenical Lenten Series.

2011-03-17T10:20:00.001-04:00

Wednesdays – 6:00 pm Soup & Sandwich Luncheon.
7:00 Worship.

1) March 16 First Reformed of Chatham,
Rev. Iris Waddell preaching.
2) March 23 First United Methodist of Chatham,
Rev. Mark Longhurst preaching.
3) March 30 Payne AME of Chatham,
Rev. Douglas Holmes preaching.
4) April 6 St. Peter's Presbyterian of Spencertown,
Rev. Gary De Witt preaching.
5) April 13 Canaan Congregational Church,
Rev. Esau Greene preaching.

The theme for our 2011 Lenten Series is:
"Christ in the Strangest Places - Fulfilled, Foreshadowed, Forever."

A few vessels of oil, simple markings, a small army, a remote field, a solemn
oath – these may seem the most unlikely people, places and things through which
God is revealed. You are invited to ponder the passion of Christ this Lenten
season through our community’s ecumenical experience of soup, sandwich,
fellowship and worship – as we prepare for the celebration of Easter.

Reflections on the Present Situation in Middle East

2011-03-03T14:52:00.001-05:00

28 February 2011
Bishop Dr. Munib A. Younan
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land

We in Jerusalem are watching closely the events unfolding in the Arab world
around us aware that, whether positively or negatively, we will all be
affected.

We in the church are watching and praying. Our prayers are filled with
encouragement for those who long for freedom. Our prayers are filled with hope
that justice and endurance will prevail. Our prayers are filled with sympathy
for the victims of violence.

But at the same time, our prayers are mingled with both awe and fear, as we
watch people now ask for their basic human rights as a whole, rights, which
until now they have been denied.

A decade ago, the horrific events of 9/11 seemed to shape a new worldview based
on a “clash of civilizations.” In events of the last months, as we have seen
Egyptian and Tunisian men and women, among others, risking their lives for
their basic freedoms, this worldview is once again being reshaped. As Charles
Kimball in his 17 February 2011 article, "The Fallacy of the 'Clash of
Civilizations'" observed, the values the Egyptian people have stood in protest
for “are values that most people in the U.S. hold dear. Rather than ‘us’ versus
‘them,’ it is now obvious how much ‘we all’ have in common.”

The rights that the people of the Middle East are protesting for are the very
same rights that democracies around the world hold dear. They are the very
same rights that we, as a church, have upheld and promoted in our
congregations, our schools, our educational programs, and our ecumenical and
interfaith relationships for years.

We stand against the use of violence, whoever the perpetrator, including
violence done by governments. We stand against the weapons trade that
continues to arm our region. We stand against those who would enter into the
fray for the sake of their own international self-interests over and against
basic human rights and the common good.

We stand in solidarity with the families of those who have been injured and
killed. We stand in solidarity with all who continue along the path of
peaceful change. And we welcome the solidarity of the international community
as we work together for peace, justice, and reconciliation.

What we need most in the Middle East is education. As Nelson Mandela has said,
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” When
you educate people, they are transformed. Education may not make for an
immediate and captivating revolution. But education lays the groundwork for
powerful and lasting change.

We pray that the emerging movements in the Middle East will create modern civil
societies that promote freedom of expression, freedom of religion, rights of
minorities and gender equality, which are the basis for any democracy.

We hope that this movement will put an end to needless poverty and vast
disparity in the Arab world, for the Arab world contains enough resources for
every citizen.

We ask that, in the midst of the emerging democracies, the Israeli-Palestinian
conflict will not be forgotten, but that the parties involved will be
reinvigorated in working for a just peace in a two-state solution with a shared
Jerusalem so that, side by side, the fruits of this peace can be a blessing
to their neighbors and to the world.
Some in this time are asking about the future of Christianity in the Middle
East. The demonstrations that are taking place are political in nature, not
religious. And, as we have seen in Egypt, demonstrators—Christian and
Muslim—have been united, hand in hand, offering support and protection for the
sake of the other. We must continue in interfaith dialogue with one another,
building together, upon our common values, modern civil societies.

As long as Christians in the Middle East continue to play an integral role in
the fabric of their society, I am confident that we will all find our political
way forward. For it is together that we must offer true and reforming support
that encourages governments in the Middle East to move toward fully
participatory democracy, so that reactionary extremism will not fill the gap.

We are entering into a new era and a new Middle East. And we are hopeful for
new and renewed partnership throughout the world. Let now the misconceptions
and misrepresentations of the Middle East fall by the wayside. The new Middle
East is emerging, calling for peace and justice, freedom and democracy, and for
basic human rights and values to be upheld.

Bishop Dr. Munib A. Younan
Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land
Posted for Pastor Bob

Come Sing!

2011-02-21T17:32:00.002-05:00

Helen is starting a choir. YIPPPEEE!!!

Please come one, come all.

Rehearsal for the next few Saturdays from 9AM - 10:30AM.

The more, the merrier - honestly.

New Furnace!

2011-02-17T08:31:00.002-05:00

Ain't it a beaut? Thanks, Doug for the photo.

Come One - Come All!

2011-02-16T14:52:00.000-05:00

Our new organist, Helen Hamel has offered to get our choir off the ground. She
is willing to meet during the week if that is more convenient for any one.
Please come and join. Joyful noise is made by anyone who likes to sing.

Council Meeting-February 2011

2011-02-16T14:51:00.000-05:00

1. Rev. Ralph Peterson to officiate at the Feb. 27th service, $100+ $.50 a mile.
2. Cluster Meeting @ St. Lukes on March 1st. that is their dinner night we are
invited and will have meeting after.
3. Deb working with Patti will have to be voted in by council when she is ready.
4. Mac to check re; annual fund raising sign ie; Christ our Emmanuel Lutheran Church
Annual Fund Drive.
5. a. Ask P. Bob to be V.Pres of council.
b. President- Marcia
c. Treas.- Patti & Deb
d. Financial Sec.- Kandy Tubbs
e. Deputy Treasure Improvement Fund- Linda Stalker
f. Committee Reports due on a monthly basis.
g. Property Comm.- Mac, Gary, Doug & Bruce.
h. Report on Confirmation- Linda
i. Worship & Music- Pastor Bob & R. Tucksmith
j. Fellowship- Donna Jean
k. Spec. Luncheons- Patti & Ann
l. Stewardship- Patti & Ken
m. Cluster Rep.- Dawn T., Richard T.(?), Pastor Bob, MAc(?)
6. Comm. Rpts;
a. Property- Contracts w/ Suburban Propane canceled, Main-Care new cont. holder.
Pastor cloak cabinet raised.
New Propane gas furnaces installed.
Handle replaced on up-stairs toilet in the apartment.
Hot air trunk line w/ 4 exhausts from lower furnace.
Thanks to Marcia & Bruce, we have new Renters for the office,
Local Lawyer Mark Renfro.
b. Feb. treasury report deposits of $3,551.50, Disbursements $2.703.82. Deposits
does not show the apt. rent of $950 that had not been deposited yet.
c. Worship & Music- New organist working out fine, Helen would like to get our
choir going on a regular basis and is willing to practice during the week if we
like. Richard and children doing a wonderful
job. Richard would like some feed back re; his Sunday service leadership.
7. Directory- Doug advised almost ready, the rough draft is fantastic, church will
pay for them, and we will ask each family to contribute towards the cost of each.
Doug to order 45 copies w/ bill to be submitted to Patti.
8. New Business; Mac to contact all who may be interested in joining the choir, an
announcement will be made on Sun. all are welcome.
9. Ash Wednesday March 9th. we may be asked to hold worship and host here.
10. Council to meet with Pastor Preisinger on March 8th. Pastor review.

Next Council Meeting March 8th, 7PM.

SINGING WITH THE LUTHERANS

2011-01-31T08:10:00.001-05:00

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 they do.

If you ask an audience in New York City, a relatively Lutheranless 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!

Provided by Pastor Bob

Second Annual Meeting

2011-01-23T15:02:00.004-05:00

Some new council members were voted in, annual reports from pastor and the committees were reviewed and accepted. Our many accomplishments were applauded.

Remember to give regularly to Christ our Emmanuel Church whether you attend the service or not. We are going to try to add a weekly organist which will add to the church's expenses but hopefully bring in more people and enhance the service for everyone. A steady choir - wouldn't that be nice?!

If you would like to make a donation to the extra cost of live music, or to the printing of the picture directory, or to help replenish the improvement fund, which was used for the many capital projects in 2010, feel free to mail something in to 19 Park Row, Chatham NY 12037 ATT: Treasurer. If you are putting money in the basket, mark your donation and we will make sure it will be applied as you wish.

Stay warmmmmmm, everybody!!!

Thanks to Richard and his helpers the walkways were all clear. We appreciate it, fellas!

No side door this Sunday

2011-01-20T20:42:00.003-05:00

Richard is working hard at clearing the pathways but unfortunately it looks like the only entrance to the church will be the front door. The lift will also be available.

For this Sunday, as of now, it looks like the path from the parking lot to the side entrance and the path from the street to the side entrance will not be passable.

Richard, thank you for your hard work. This ice is somethin' else!

Former Bishop

2011-01-20T09:55:00.001-05:00

The Rev. Dr. Lee Miller, who served as Bishop of the Upstate New York Synod
from 1992-2002, has been hospitalized twice in the last month. He is now
returning home in the care of hospice. We invite you to pray for him, his wife
Joan, and all his family. Cards and notes are encouraged so that they may enjoy
them as time and energy permits. They may be sent to 6423 Scotland Rd., East
Syracuse, NY 13057. Dr. Miller is a member of St. Stephen's, Syracuse so Pastor
Jim Jerge is his designated pastor. We will provide updates as we are able. As
always, we put our trust in our Lord, knowing that Dr. Miller is resting in the
hands of a loving and gracious Saviour.

Grace and peace,
Marie C. Jerge, Bishop

Council Minutes - Jan 11 2011

2011-01-16T14:56:00.004-05:00

Annual Meeting

Come vote!

January 23, 2011 - We will vote on:

Three candidates for council vacancies
Worshipping upstairs/downstairs
Hiring an organist regularly to the tune of $100 a pop
Other stuff

The meeting will follow an abbreviated worship service and should be over by noon.

Pastor's Vacation

(left over from 2010)

He will be in Brooklyn for the month of February
Only one service (on February 27) will offer communion
Richard will lead the other services

A banner to display at the church tag sale is being looked into. Know of anyone who might be willing to donate?

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

$200/year will be donated to local charities. I think this is what the council notes said. Correct me if I am wrong.

Our Food Pantries are in desperate need. Please remember to bring in a contribution when you come to church.

APARTMENT FOR RENT

The office next door to the church is still available. The advertising was expensive and did not produce any results, so spread the word.

Have a good week, everyone!

Looks at the Lift

2011-01-06T07:53:00.004-05:00

Winnie B christened the lift for us on Christmas Eve rising to the service in her wheelchair. What a great sight! Sorry there is no photo of that but here's Hank after his knee surgery and a closer look at what makes the lift tick.

Photos by Doug.

Blankets & Dogs

2011-01-02T15:56:00.001-05:00

It looks like we are going to continue to meet upstairs this winter.
Since it may be a bit chilly, remember to dress warmly. According to Marcia, Christa says that in "the old days" worshippers used to bring blankets and dogs to keep warm. Woof! Woof!

2010 Christmas message: "Fear Not!"

2010-12-24T15:04:00.001-05:00

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)

2010-12-20T12:02:00.002-05:00

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

2010-12-12T17:03:00.004-05:00

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

2010-12-11T12:58:00.002-05:00

What a turn-out!

Donations requested

2010-12-11T12:35:00.000-05:00

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

2010-12-08T16:51:00.003-05:00

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.
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.
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//////
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.
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
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

2010-12-01T17:08:00.001-05:00

Great visit! My how those babies have grown!

Choir rehearsal

2010-12-01T12:36:00.001-05:00

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

2010-12-01T12:28:00.001-05:00

"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

2010-11-21T18:24:00.001-05:00

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

2010-11-20T18:04:00.004-05:00

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

2010-11-10T16:35:00.005-05:00

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

2010-11-04T11:27:00.008-04:00

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

2010-11-02T19:26:00.004-04:00

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

2010-10-20T17:26:00.000-04:00

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

2010-10-06T12:41:00.003-04:00

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

2010-10-04T10:51:00.001-04:00

Here we go!

Thanks for photos, Doug.

Council Meeting

2010-09-20T14:20:00.003-04:00

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

2010-09-20T13:45:00.000-04:00

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

2010-08-25T14:18:00.000-04:00

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

2010-08-17T08:58:00.003-04:00

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

2010-08-16T18:43:00.006-04:00

Thanks, Linda O!

2010-08-15T12:16:00.003-04:00

For your listening pleasure!

Cluster Picnic 2010

2010-08-08T13:54:00.000-04:00

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!!

2010-08-03T11:17:00.001-04:00

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

2010-08-02T11:56:00.001-04:00

Thanks again for the good work, Doug!

Annual Tag Sale 2010

2010-07-15T21:57:00.004-04:00

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

2010-07-14T14:03:00.003-04:00

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

2010-07-12T12:06:00.001-04:00

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

2010-06-28T15:50:00.000-04:00

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

2010-06-11T16:36:00.001-04:00

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

Council Meeting-June 1, 2010

2010-06-07T11:20:00.003-04:00

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

2010-06-02T14:13:00.001-04:00

Friends for 70 years!

Mission Statement

2010-06-02T13:58:00.000-04:00

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

2010-06-02T13:19:00.003-04:00

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

2010-05-17T15:15:00.001-04:00

Remember to wear red!

Council Meeting - May 4, 2010

2010-05-06T15:42:00.005-04:00

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

2010-04-29T11:54:00.001-04:00

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

Christ Our Emmanuel begins

2010-04-29T11:43:00.000-04:00

New carpet

2010-04-22T10:41:00.000-04:00

First the window. Now the carpet!

Sunday, April 25

2010-04-19T10:26:00.000-04:00

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

2010-04-15T15:58:00.000-04:00

The new window goes in!

A letter shared by Pastor

2010-04-09T11:51:00.001-04:00

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