faith matters 0319.pdf · realization of the depth of god’s mercy for us and for all. for as...

Faith Matters page 1 March 2019

faith matters The Roxbury Congregational Church

A Congregation of the United Church of Christ

Vol. 277, Issue 3, March 2019

Church Office, 24 Church Street Roxbury, Connecticut 06783-1703

Church Office: 860-355-1978 e-mail: [email protected]

Pastoral Reflections The Reverend David F. Peters, Minister Lent begins on Wednesday, March 6. We call it Ash Wednesday. The images of the parties in New Orleans Mardi Gras fade. The lights go down. The cloths on our pulpit are now a deep purple. The music slows, becomes somber, and speaks in minor keys. The service is muffled as each week we add to the large purple cloths extended down across from balcony to balcony foretelling the darkness and sadness to come. What alleluias we have to say, we save until Easter. “Lent is a sober season,” writes preacher-activist Ronald Allen, “But the quiet of Lent is not the quiet of despair. It is the quiet that comes from the deepening realization of the depth of God’s mercy for us and for all. For as these days lengthen, we become aware of the shadow of the cross. We know tin the deepest recesses of our beings that God knows our every suffering, our sin. And God gathers them into God’s own self.” Maybe these words help us understand why Christian communities have practiced spiritual disciplines since time immemorial. We enter these disciplines not to earn favor, but to grow in the awareness of the divine love, and to be strengthened as disciples. Discipleship is another theme that runs right through the middle of these six weeks. To be a disciple means to enter disciplines of prayer, study, service, solitude, reflection. To be a disciple is to recognize the cost of how much God cares by responding with renewed care on our part. So it is we redouble our efforts to be in attendance at Sunday worship and to take out time on Maundy Thursday. So it is that our Easter offering is not kept for ourselves, but goes for missions of mercy. Do not be deceived. Lent is not a season of self-help or even self-improvement. It is a rediscovery of the special stake we Christians have in self-giving love. A love that reached its zenith on the cross. A love that is grave one moment and judgment the next. Mercy is the best word to describe the particular shape that self-giving love takes in Lent. Mercy is not leniency or soft-heartedness. It’s much more than feeling sorry for others. Mercy begins as we identify and empathize with others. We identify. We empathize. And then we make concrete and specific expressions of care, expressions of mercy. Which is why this is an excellent season to find ways to be reconciled with your enemies.

Continuing Testament Extravagant Welcome

Changing Lives


In Lent we remember Jesus. We remember that his quiet before Pilate was not the quiet of despair, but of truth. We remember the discipline required of him to put our eternal happiness before his survival, much less his comfort and convenience. We remember the self-giving love he showed us which flowered like spring in tangible expressions of mercy. Let us observe Lent by recalling this. Let us celebrate the depth of God’s mercy.

With love and appreciation, David

Lenten Devotion Online A new Lenten Devotion titled, Young

Voices: Stepping Out of the Wilderness has been published by the Untied Church of Christ and we have purchased and placed it online so that you might use it this Lent. It is written by young people and we feel you might enjoy and find meaning in their reflections during this season.

To read it point your web browser to: https://www.dropbox.com/s/ncb00vuqqdvfu

os/Stepping%20Out.pdf%20213.pdf?dl=0

thank you

To everyone who attended the Annual Meeting on February 10. After our potluck luncheon, we heard the reports of the officers and committees including the budget for this year. We recognized outgoing officers and members of boards and committees who’ve served so conscientiously and whose terms expired. Appreciation went to David Lincicome, who served on Deacons and Stewardship; Mike Farrell and Chris Childs, Trustees; Gaila Rossiter and Rick Heyniger, Missions; Cathy Racz, Fellowship; Ray Fitch, Pastoral Relations; Diane Meade, Nominating; Beatriz Conroy, Church Fair. Thank you to those stepping up into new positions and to those moving to new areas. They include Patricia Fraley, Pastoral Relations; Jean Neff, Stewardship; Joan Temple, Chris Childs and Phil de Vries, Missions; Chris Childs, Nominating; David Lincicome, Litchfield South Association UCC Delegate.


Special thanks to everyone who brought food contributions to the luncheon and for the festive deserts.

February 10 was Scout Sunday. We welcomed members of Boy Scout Troop 65 and Cub Scout Pack 465 and their leaders to take part in the morning worship service.

Teaching Parish Opportunity

At last month’s meeting, the Deacons, after discussion, voted to approach Andover Newton Seminary at Yale Divinity School in New Haven and once again apply to be a Teaching Parish. Many remember with pride our previous students who learned so much here in years past: Revs. Virnette Hamilton and Diane Monti-Catania. This would involve having a seminarian be among us to learn about the dynamics and life of a parish. We are a great congregation and location for such a program and something that the whole congregation can take pride in! The next steps involve seeking non-budget donations of approx. $2000 to go towards the $4000 stipend that Yale offers the student. Then, if accepted into the program, it would involve interviewing possible students and finding a good

match later this spring. Tentatively, they would spend Sundays and one weekday here in Roxbury. They would be supervised by Rev. Peters, who is already certified with Yale as a Supervisor from our previous students. The teaching parish program would run from September through the following spring. If you are willing to help fund this program, please speak with Rev. Peters.


Lenten Matters

Our purple cloth strung across from balcony to balcony reminds us visually that Lent is a time to looking inward and not so much outward. Space is halved. The space feels smaller and can feel that God pulls us downward and inward in introspection and re-discovery. In our church, Lent is a time of prayer and reflection rather than of austerity. We have a series of Lenten Adult Studies each Sunday and 3 Lunches with area UCC congregations and a special dinner on Maundy Thursday to pull us together and meditate on our faith. We don’t really “give things up” for Lent – instead we dig deeper into what all this means to us. And it means different things to different people — we have lots of different ways of being Christian in our community.

Adult Study / Lenten Study 2019 You are invited to join us for a six-week study on Sundays after Fellowship Hour. We will be using the series: Living the Questions. Following a brief DVD video, we will have a guided discussion about the topic and thoughts arising from the video. Each session stands on its own so if you have to miss a session, it doesn’t mean you are left behind and can’t attend sessions following. Upcoming topics include: 3/10: Restoring Relationships 3/17: The Prophetic Jesus 3/24: Evil, Suffering & A God of Love 3/31: Practicing Resurrection 4/7: Debunking the Rapture 4/14 : Reclaiming the World We are planning to start our first session on Sunday, March 10 at noon in the Church Library. Sign up is available on the Opportunity Table. Join us!

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 10.

Set clocks ahead one hour!

LSA Spring Meeting Save the date for the Spring Meeting of the Litchfield South Association, Tuesday, May 14, 2019, hosted by Plymouth Congregational Church, UCC19 Park Street, Plymouth. 5:30 registration 6:00 dinner 7 p.m. Vespers followed by program: Start a Conversation: How to engage each other in a deeply spiritual (new) way. If you would like to attend, speak with Rev. Peters.


Palm Sunday Service, Sunday, April 14, 10:30 a.m. in the Meetinghouse. Maundy Thursday Tenebrae Communion Dinner, Thursday, April 18, 6:30 p.m., Fellowship Hall. Bring a dish to share! Good Friday, April 19, the Meetinghouse is open all day for prayer and meditation. Printed resources are available on the front pew. Easter Sunrise Service, Sunday, April 21, 6:30 a.m., Upper Grassy Hill. Easter Breakfast follows. Easter Celebration Service, Sunday, April 21, 10:30 a.m. in the Meetinghouse. Easter Breakfast Help Needed We are in need of someone to coordinate our annual Easter Breakfast. The Breakfast follows the Sunrise Service at approximately 7 a.m. and involves soliciting donations of breakfast items and setting up for the informal meal. If you are willing, please speak with Rev. Peters soon. Thank you. Easter Lilies Easter lilies can be ordered for our Easter Sunday Service. They are $15 each. To order, send an email to the Church Office and submit a check or cash to the office before noon on April 19. You may place flowers in memory of a specific person or “loved ones”. Please note that in the email. If you would like to place your own flowers and have them mentioned in the Easter bulletin, please send an email to the office or let Nancy know. Thanks for helping to make our church beautiful on Easter morning.

2019 Stewardship Campaign This Little Light of Mine “…let your light shine before others…” Matthew 5:16 “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lamp stand?” Mark 4:21 This year’s Stewardship campaign began last year on November 6th when we sent everyone a letter inviting one and all to let their light shine, spreading God’s love from our church community into the world. We put a cloud of darkness on the wall around Fellowship Hall, and posted a light on that cloud for each pledge we received, covering almost all of it. So far, we have received 56 pledges for a total of $133,192.00 compared with 55 pledges totaling $123,875 at this time last year. We are in the process of sending handwritten thank you notes to those who have pledged. We have 120-plus member families and friends, and are grateful that almost half of these have pledged this year. We remind those who have not pledged that it’s never too late to pledge, or at least make a one-time gift to the work of the church! We thank God for the continuing generosity of our members and friends that makes it possible for us to continue to share God’s love within our church family, in our community, and in the wider world. We praise God for the many opportunities our church gives us to grow in spirit and service. Yours in witness to God’s love from the Stewardship Committee, Colby Kalisher, David Lincicome, Mike Wilcox (continued on next page)


Offering envelopes for 2019 are available in Fellowship Hall. If you do not find a box with your name on it, please take one of the unassigned boxes and note on the clipboard which box you have taken. PLEASE discard all envelopes from previous years. The numbers on the envelopes are used to credit your pledge with weekly contributions. When old envelopes are used and someone else is currently assigned that number, the wrong account will be credited. (From Cathy Racz, Collector)

*****

Rummage Sale Coming On Saturday, May 18, from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., the church will hold our annual Rummage/Bake Sale. We've changed how we accept clothing this year. Clean, good condition clothing must either be brought on hangers or folded in boxes. No garbage bags or plastic bags filled with clothing. This will make it much easier for our workers and will ensure the quality and selection of donations. Also, clothing donations will not be accepted after 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 16th. Other items we would love to receive are household/kitchen items, garden equipment, tools, small furniture, small appliances, books in good condition (novels sell best), linens in good condition. Please be sure everything is clean and in working condition. We do not accept electronics, TV's, exercise equipment, sports equipment, baby equipment, textbooks, luggage, computers older than 5 years or non-working items. You may bring your items beginning Sunday, May 12th after church. Early in the week is better. Nothing will be accepted after 4:00 p.m. Friday, May 17. Please bake as people love our bake table goodies. If you have questions, please call Sue Stauffacher at 860-354-1274 before 8:00 p.m. There will be a signup sheet on the Opportunity Table. February Birthdays (Omitted from last issue -sorry!)

10 Regina Kay 12 Julie Whitney 18 Brett & Bernie Kibbe (A) 19 Tiffany Horton 19 Dawn Collette 19 Zachary Collette 24 Matthew Collette 26 Jean Neff 27 Diana de Vries March Birthdays 2 Beverly Wolmer 5 Bob Montesi 6 Pat Lowe 8 Nancy Glover 8 Kirby Peters 10 Joan Temple 10 Judy Larson 10 Jan Steers 12 Seth Temple 16 Sandi Larson 17 Nancy Callahan 23 Danielle Fredericks 25 Brook Fredericks 31 Nan Rossiter


Rev. Peters and the Board of Deacons invites you to consider sharing your faith story. Christian tradition has long included the sharing of faith stories. People in the early church shared their personal stories of God’s presence in their lives as a way of explaining their faith to newcomers. Pilgrims along the journey have always shared stories with one another about their experiences. We are our stories. We cannot fully know one another without sharing. The psalms represent someone’s testimony at the time of writing. The entire New Testament is the individual writer’s testimony of their experience of Jesus Christ and the transformative power of God. “Testimony reminds us of where we have been, helps us see where we are and directs us toward unanticipated paths.” (Christianity For the Rest of Us, Diana Butler Bass, p.139) Guidelines for Sharing: A personal story of importance to your spiritual life. It can be about why you attend this church, how you have seen God working in your life, or something that feeds your spirit. 3-5 minutes in length Delivered as part of worship We put time aside during worship on the 3rd Sunday of each month for sharing Faith Stories. If you are willing, please speak with Charlie Stauffacher or Rev. Peters. \

upcoming

Men’s Breakfast Saturday, March 9 8 a.m.

The Men’s Fellowship breakfast is held the second Saturday of each month at 8 a.m. in Fellowship Hall. All men of the Church are welcome to come for great hospitality, food, and lively, informal discussions and stories. Kitchen talk begins while the meal is being prepared around 7:30 a.m. The Men’s fellowship group has been the sponsoring organization for our annual Juried Art Show.

ongoing

"Traveling Well"

A study has begun facilitated by Diane. Meade, MAR inspired by Rev. Dr. Kirk Byron Jones called “Traveling Well: Our Spiritual Journey.” The group met after worship the 24th of February and will meet again on Sunday March 3 and continue to meet monthly after Lent. "Traveling Well" focuses on the quiet time we have listening to our soul and acting on those inspirations. During the 45-60 minute session, participants can share their journal entries, how they responded to the soul's revelations. Some of the topics for creating and continuing meaningful conversations: 1. Be Still. 2. Lay Burdens Down. 3. Listen Deeply. 4. Don't Run Away.


5. Be Honest. (Continued next page) 6. Be Gentle. 7. Welcome New Truth. A limited number of copies of Dr. Jones' book Soul Talk are available (or can be purchased from Amazon at the extraordinarily reasonable price of $7.99). Additionally there are blank journals available for participants. You are invited to join Diane as we share our stories of Traveling Well. Community Yoga Our yoga group is taking a winter break now and will not be meeting. Watch for the announcement of the program’s return. We thank Suzanne Fitch for her time and expertise in leading this popular group, with half of the class fee going to the Roxbury Resident Assistance Fund. Super Saturday Workshops Saturday, March 16 Worship, Workshops, Fellowship, Networking, The deadline to register for Super Saturday being held March 16 at Minnechaug Regional High School in Wilbraham, MA is approaching. The event features a full day of worship, workshops and networking. The main speaker will be Rebekah Anderson. Rebekah began investigating disability theology during an internship with the Office of Congregational Assessment Support and Advancement of the UCC and has presented on the topic at the National Church Leadership Institute, Eastern Regional Youth Event, and Super Saturday. She is an alumna of the Connecticut Conference’s Thinking About Working for God Apprenticeship and the UCC’s Young Adult Service communities and is in her first year at Union Theological Seminar. www.macucc.org

Friday, April 26, 2019 6:00 p.m.

Edmond Town Hall, Main Street, Newtown.

Free – Dress is business casual – Bring your friends!

Keep Hope Alive is an inspiring and truly unique fundraising event. Mingle with members of the Simply Smiles community during the cocktail hour while you enjoy an open bar and hors d’oeuvres. Then, Bryan Nurnberger, Founder & President of Simply Smiles, will take the stage to share the story of Simply Smiles and how you can support the children in our care.

WAIT UNTIL YOU SEE WHAT WE CAN DO TOGETHER.


Confirmation Class

Our confirmand this year is Caroline Kibbe pictured here with her mentor, Jeanne Steers. As well as meeting with her mentor, she will be visiting local places of worship as part of her Confirmation experience. She will be preparing an individual Personal Statements of Faith in preparation for the Rite of Confirmation on Pentecost Sunday, June 9, 2019.

One Great Hour of Sharing This offering will be received Sunday, March 31 during the service. It is part of our Church’s Wider Mission and one of the four special mission offerings of the United Church of Christ. The offering provides hope to people in more than 80 countries. The UCC works with international partners to provide health, education, refugee, agriculture and emergency relief initiatives. Please give generously. Faith in Action

Pat Fraley at Loaves and Fishes in January. Church is not just worship on a Sunday morning... it is also serving others with joy in our hearts. It is love in action! . Community Outreach

What a great Trivia Night we had on February 9th. A great turn-out, our best ever and, of course, great leadership from Chris Childs and Joan Temple, as always!


Upcoming calendar

First Sundays = Communion Second Sundays = Children’s Sermon

Third Sundays = Faith Stories Fourth Sundays= Mission Moments

MARCH 2 Spaghetti Supper Fundraiser 5:00 p.m. March 3 Worship including Communion 10:30 a.m. March 6 Ash Wednesday – Lent begins Service 7 p.m. March 10 First Sunday in Lent – Daylight Saving Time returns

Adult Lenten Study I Noon March 17 Adult Lenten Study II Noon March 24 Adult Lenten Study III Noon March 30 Jazz Concert with Doug White Quintet 7:00 p.m. March 31 One Great Hour of Sharing Offering 10:30 a.m.

Adult Lenten Study IV Noon APRIL 7 Worship including Communion 10:30 a.m. Adult Study V Noon April 14 Palm Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. April 18 Maundy Thursday Community Tenebrae Dinner 6:30 p.m. April 19 Good Friday April 21 Easter Day Sunrise Service – Breakfast follows 6:00 a.m. Celebration Worship 10:30 a.m. May 5 Worship including Communion 10:30 a.m.

Ladies Luncheon 12 noon May 11 Spring Church Work Day 9 a.m. – 12p.m. May 12 Mother’s Day May 18 Rummage and Bake Sale 9:00 a.m.– 2 p.m.. May 27 Memorial Day Holiday Parade 10:00 a.m. JUNE 1 Chili Cook-off 5 – 7:30 p.m. June 9 Pentecost – Rite of Confirmation 10:30 a.m. Church Family Day Picnic June 14-16 Roxbury Regional Art Show & Sale - Art at the Meetinghouse JULY & AUGUST 9:30 a.m. Worship time Rev. Peters on Vacation (July) & Sabbatical (August) August 10 Tag Sale 9a.m. - 3p.m. August 24 Beef Barbecue 5p.m. – 7p.m. SEPTEMBER 1 10:30 a.m. worship time returns – Rev. Peters back from Sabbatical

trustee matters


As the COLD months continue... Please remember to close the doors to the restrooms and the kitchen when you are finished using them. This not only helps the church conserve energy but keeps the pipes from freezing. These areas all have thermostats and are separate heating zones. The thermostats are programmed to return to lower settings at preset times each day. If you want to put heat on, simply push the up arrow on the thermostat to 64 degrees. This will get the room to a comfortable level. When you leave you can push the RUN button to return to the pre-set level. There are buckets of sand and eco-friendly salt at the entrances to the building. Please use sparingly. Rummage/Bake Sale Tag/Bake Sale Coming An early reminder of two important church fundraisers: Rummage/Bake Sale – Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. For the Rummage Sale, we take good, clean, used clothing and other household items. Tag/Bake Sale – Saturday, August 10, 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. For the Tag/Bake Sale, you may rent a table for $25 or a space for $20 and sell your own items, or you may contribute to the “church table.” The Bake Sale is a big part of these events. Some people come just for our baked goods because they are soooo good. So please consider baking. Questions? Sue Stauffacher at 860-354-1274. Sue will be seeking volunteers to help with both of these events as they draw closer.

fellowship matters

One of the ways that we can help our community here at Church stronger is the important time after worship when we have refreshments and conversation! It is when we share our concerns, stories, and dreams with one another. To help facilitate that, we provide light snacks and drinks. We need hosts for these times. We encourage you to sign up for a time that is best for your schedule on the kiosk in Fellowship Hall. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Simple is better. Store- bought items are ok if baking is not your thing. Information: Jeanne Steers 860-354-7484. Upcoming Events: April 21 Easter Breakfast May 5 Ladies Luncheon June 9 Spring Church Celebration July/August Sundaes on Saturday September 8 Welcome Back Picnic September 28 Dinner Train at Essex October TBA Progressive Supper December 15 Victorian Christmas December 22 Caroling

So Your Minister Can Help / Support If you are hospitalized and desire pastoral support, you or your family should notify our minister of the hospitalization as soon as possible, by calling 860-355-1978. With the new federal regulations, he is not able to find this information from the hospital.


Silver Lake Conference Center

Events

SPRING 2019 Counselor-in-Training Weekend 3/1/19 – 3/3/19 For youth age 15 by 6/15/19 to age 16. . For youth in grades 6-8 From tap to table, experience nature’s renewal and its sweet gifts at Silver Lake March 22, 7 p.m., to March 24, 11 a.m. We will tap the camp’s sugar maple trees, collect the sap, and boil it over a big outdoor stove as we participate in the transformation of sap into syrup. We will follow the same techniques used by Native Americans for thousands of years. See firsthand God’s gift of Resurrection in the coming Spring. Women’s Yoga and Music Spirit Retreat 3/29/19- 3/31/19. Counselor Retreat 4/12/19 – 4/13/19. Simply Smiles / Silver lake Mission Trip to Oaxaca, Mexico 4/13/19 – 4/20/19.

SUMMER CAMP 2019

Silver Lake 2019 Summer Conferences have been announced and registration is open for those entering grades 4-12 in the fall who wish to attend. Silver Lake is our UCC summer camp located in near-by Sharon, CT. This year’s Theme is “Peace Works;” Empowering the Next Generation of Peacemakers. Youth Conferences run each week First week begins Sunday June 23. Last week begins week through August 4. There is also an off-site conference at H.O.M.E.

Coop I Orland, ME July 14-20. An Open House will be held on Sunday, May 19 from 2- 4 pm. at Silver Lake. Take a tour, see the cabins and buildings. A visit to Silver Lake before camp is the best way for a first-time conferee to know what to expect and you might even meet a new friend who is going to the same week! See Rev. Peters with questions. Brochures are posted in Fellowship Hall or you can visit their website, www.silverlakect.org. Scholarships are available.

*****

Star Island Experience

Star Island, off the coast of Portsmouth, NH is a wonderful week-long time of renewal and enrichment for adults and youth alike. Two week- long multi-generational conferences that might interest you: Star Gathering 1 Family Conference “Bodies are Beautiful” July 27, – August 3, 2019. Star Gathering 2 Family Conference “The Body – A Vehicle for Justice, Advocacy and Peace” August 3, 2019 – August 10, 2019. For more information go to their website starisland.org. For questions speak with Charlie & Sue Stauffacher or Des & Nancy Desmond. Church Scholarships are available for both UCC experiences.


mission matters The following grants were approved for distribution in 2018: Connecticut Roxbury Resident Relief Fund $200 Daily Bread Food Pantry $200 Greater Women’s Center of Danbury $200 Loaves and Fishes Hospitality House $200 Association of Religious Communities $200 Silver Lake Conference Center $200 Brian O’Connell Homeless Project $300 Christian Community Outreach Ministries $200 United States Back Bay Mission $200 Andover Newton Seminary at Yale $200 Seafarer’s Friend – Boston $200 Fuller Center for Housing $200 Holy Joe’s Café – Chaplain’s ministry support $200 International Simply Smiles $200 UCC Micro-loan Program (Wider Church Ministries) $200 Church World Service $200 Heifer Project $100 Crosby Fund for Haitian Education $200 United Church of Christ Disaster Ministries $200 Total Distributions approved: $3,600 $2900 from 2018 Budget $700 from a directed gift Thank you to everyone who made this possible!

Faith In Action

Serve the Evening Meal at Loaves and Fishes You are invited to share the love of God by

helping to serve the meal at Loaves and Fishes Hospitality House in New Milford. Our meal is prepared through the generosity of the Bridgewater Store and Bistro each month so that we can serve it to the 20+ homeless and working poor of New

Milford. On the fourth Wednesday of each month we gather at 3 p.m. at Loaves and Fishes and prepare for service and then clean up. Each month’s team includes 3 people. We like to rotate our team members and encourage first timers! Sign up on the Opportunity Table. Questions: Charlie Meade or David Peters.

Distribute Groceries at Daily Bread Food Pantry Each month on the second Monday, our

congregation shares God’s love by distributing non-perishables at Danbury’s Food Pantry. We like to have 3-4 team members each month and encourage first-timers. Sign up on the Opportunity Table. Questions: Sue Stauffacher.

Knit Prayer Shawls and Prayer Squares We bless and distribute Prayer Shawls to those who are in need of a warm shawl that also conveys the love and care of the congregation surrounding them as the recipient goes through a health issue or a difficult time. Information on the Opportunity Table. Questions: Jan Steers.

Fix Things and Help with Small Projects From time to time there are small fix-it projects around the church buildings and grounds that need attention. If you have repair skills and would like to help, speak with our Trustees (including Charlie Meade, Chris Childs, or Chris Steers).

Visit Someone at Home Once a Month Called to Care is a ministry sponsored by the Deacons and led by Colby Kalisher. You choose a person on our list of folks who can benefit by a monthly visit. The visit is one way to share God’s love and that of our congregation. What a better way to spend one hour each month than to brighten someone’s day?! SERRV Shop Open


Looking to buy a unique gift and help others at the same time? Try SERRV! Our shop is open each Sunday after worship in Fellowship Hall with affordable jewelry, handicrafts, candles, tea, soup mixes and so on. Questions? Speak with Susan Zappulla-Peters or Nancy Desmond. Recycling News

(contributed by Sue Stauffacher) Plastic recycling has taken on a new life! Trex, maker of decking, etc., is collecting plastic/film items to be recycled into benches, decking, railings, etc. These items include plastic grocery bags, newspaper sleeves, produce bags, pellet bags, bread bags, product wrap, dry cleaning bags, cereal liners (plastic), bubble wrap/air pillows (deflated), case overwrap (think Costco), salt bags, zip lock and other resealable bags, etc. All items must be clean, dry, and free from food residue. There is a container for these items in the entrance to New Morning Market in Woodbury. It says "Trex" on it.

Jazz Concert

Saturday, March 30 - 7:00 pm

Roxbury Congregational

Church 24 Church Street ~ Roxbury,

Connecticut

FEATURING ROXBURY’S OWN:

Classic Jazz at its Best!

Doors open at 6:30 pm

Donation: $15 per person


Word & Sacrament for March 2019

Deacons of the Month: Charlie Stauffacher & Linda Ross

Counter: Fellowship Coordinator:

Underlined scriptures are for Lay Readers Sunday, March 3 Last Sunday after Epiphany Exodus 34: 29-35 Psalm 99 2 Corinthians 3: 12-4:2 Luke 9: 28-36, (37-43a) Greeters: Steve Ross & Mike Wilcox Reader: Steve or Mike Fellowship Hour: Susan Zappulla Peters Flowers: Sunday, March 10 First Sunday of Lent Deuteronomy 26: 1-11 Psalm 91: 1-2, 9-16 Romans 10: 8b-13 Luke 4: 1-13 Greeters: Bill & Jan Steers Reader: Bill or Jan Fellowship Hour: Barb Cover Flowers: _____________________________________ 2019 Flower Calendar The 2019 Flower Calendar is now posted in Fellowship Hall. If you have a particular date/dates on which you would like to place flowers on the altar, please add your name to the calendar. Please write clearly and add any memorial or celebratory dedication you wish printed in the bulletin.

Sunday, March 17 Second Sunday of Lent Genesis 15: 1-12, 17-18 Psalm 27 Philippians 3: 7-4:1 Luke 13: 31-35 or Luke 9: 28-36, (37-43a) Greeters: Reader: Fellowship Hour: Flowers: Sunday, March 24 Third Sunday of Lent Isaiah 55: 1-9 Psalm 63: 1-8 1 Corinthians 10: 1-13 Luke 13: 1-9 Greeters: Reader: Jerry Smith Fellowship Hour: Flowers: Sunday, March 31 Fourth Sunday of Lent Joshua 5: 9-12 Psalm 32 2 Corinthians 5: 16-21 Luke 15: 1-3, 11b-32 Greeters: Reader: Fellowship Hour: Flowers:


Don’t just make a plan, make a difference!

Your gift can create a lasting legacy For over 200 years people like you have been making bequests and life income gifts that have helped generations of church people. Just like you, shared God’s love to the Roxbury community and the wider world. Perhaps this congregation has made a difference in your life, provided important support and comfort to a neighbor or friend, or inspiration that led you to change your life. Now you can honor that gift with one of your own. By your charitable financial plans including the church, you can make a difference in the future of the church. Types of Planned Gifts Gifts through your will The Roxbury Congregational Church can be named as a beneficiary in your will and you can specify an outright gift of cash, securities, real estate of tangible personal property. If your estate is subject to the federal estate tax, a charitable bequest can save significant tax dollars. Appreciated Stock By making a gift of stock you receive an income tax deduction and eliminate the capital gains tax. Charitable Remainder Trust You can use under-performing appreciated assets to create steady income for the rest of your life. You receive a significant charitable deduction and the capital gains tax is eliminated. Your trust can be professionally managed.

Charitable Lead Trusts A charitable lead trust can enhance your ability to make larger current gifts to the Roxbury Congregation Church and you can preserve assets for your family while still supporting the church. You can also reduce your taxable income and your estate tax. Gifts of Life Insurance. This can be done either by purchasing a new life insurance policy or by contributing a policy which you currently own, but no longer need. Roxbury Congregational Church can be designated as the beneficiary of the policy, while you retain the right to change the beneficiary at a later date and otherwise retain ownership of the policy. Benefits

• Tax advantages are substantial, especially on appreciated securities and properties.

• Total income, estate and capital gains tax savings and the probate expenses savings can come close the amount transferred.

• Many giving options can assure you of income for the rest of your life.

• Your assets remain in your control during your lifetime.

• You can modify your gift to a particular agreed-upon purpose.

• While unrestricted gifts allow the church to allocate funds to areas of greatest needs, we can also help you direct your giving to the areas where you have the greatest passions.

By making a planned gift to the Roxbury Congregational Church, your generosity will live into the future and help ensure that this tradition, this faith community, continues. For more information, please contact Rev. David Peters at the Church Office or speak with your financial planning specialist. (We have a few within the congregation.)


Roxbury Church Leadership 2019-2020 OFFICERS one year terms Moderator: Brian Neff (7) 860-354-3177 [email protected] Vice Moderator: Joan Temple (4) 860-350-0529 [email protected] Clerk: Pat Fraley (3) 860-868-0051 [email protected] Treasurer: Beverly Wolmer (2) 860-355-3343 [email protected] Assistant Treas: Heidi Neff (2) 860-354-3177 [email protected] Collector: Cathy Racz (2) 860-799-0180 [email protected] Accounting/Audit: Dumas & Co 860-355-2223 Librarian: Joan Temple (9) 860-350-0529 [email protected] Historian: Dale Pinchbeck (3) 860-355-4297 [email protected] Board Of Deacons /Christian Education Committee Patricia Fraley (1) (2022) 860-868-0051 [email protected] ________________ (1) (2022) Diane Meade (1) ( 2021) 860-355-1584 [email protected] Ray Fitch (2) (2021) 203-586-9599 [email protected] Michael Wilcox (1) (2020) 860-354-8821 [email protected] Charles Stauffacher (2) (2020) 860-354-1274 [email protected] Mark Kibbe(Youth) (2) (2020) 860-355-7574 [email protected] Board Of Trustees ________________ 1) (2022) Tom Farrell (1) (2022) 860-948-2833 [email protected] Dale Pinchbeck (1) (2021) 860-355-4297 [email protected] Chris Steers (1) (2021) 860-354-7484 [email protected] Charles Meade (1) (2020) 860-898-0107 [email protected] Tina Brockett (1) (2020) 860-354-9157 [email protected] Mission Committee Barbara Mousted (1) (2022) 860-799-6501 [email protected] Joan Temple (2) (2022) 860-350-0529 Megan Hodge (1) (2021) 860-355-7022 [email protected] Christopher Childs (2) (2021) 860-355-9067 [email protected] Phil deVries (1) (2020) 860-354-0062 [email protected] ________________ (1) (2020) Pastoral Relations Committee Patricia Fraley (1) (2022) 860-868-0051 [email protected] Colby Kalisher (3) (2021) 860-355-8012 [email protected] Tina Brockett (3) (2020) 860-354-9157 [email protected] Fellowship Committee _________________ (1 ) (2022) Jeanne Steers (2) (2022) 860-354-7484 [email protected] ________________ ( 1) (2021) _________________(1 ) (2021) Beatriz Conroy (1) (2020) 860-354-2529 [email protected] Steven Ross (1) (2020) 860-799-5421 [email protected]


Stewardship Committee Jean Neff (1) (2022) 860-354-2461 Colby Kalisher (2) (2021) 860-355-8012 [email protected] Michael Wilcox (1) (2020) 860-354-8821 [email protected] Nominating Committee (2 year terms) Christopher Childs (2) (2021) 860-355-9067 [email protected] Sue Stauffacher. (1) (2021) 860-354-1274 [email protected] Nancy Callahan (1) (2020) 203-264-4037 [email protected]

The following have 1 year terms:

Church Christmas Fair Committee Cathy Racz (4) (2019) 860-799-0180 [email protected] Linda Ross (2) (2019) 860-799-5421 [email protected] Charles Meade (1) (2019) 860-898-0107 [email protected] Flower Committee (purposely left unfilled) (1) Litchfield South Assoc. UCC Delegates Diane Meade (2) (2019) 860-355-1584 [email protected] Charles Meade (2) (2019) 860-898-0107 [email protected] Connecticut Conference, UCC Delegates Jay Pinchbeck (9) (2020) 860-355-2497 [email protected] Diane Meade (6) (2020) 860-355-1584 [email protected] David Lincicome (2) (2020) 203-948-2008 [email protected] Boy Scouts Institutional Representative Jason McKay (4) (2020) 860-868-2525 [email protected] STAFF Minister Rev. David F. Peters 860-355-1978 [email protected] Organist Sandra Kleisner 860-868-9040 [email protected] Secretary Nancy Glover 860-355-1978 [email protected] Custodian Bruce Rossiter 860-354-3065 [email protected] Fundraisers / Ministries0 Rummage / Bake Sale Sue Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected] Tag Sale Sue Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected] Art Show Charlie Meade - 860-898-0107 [email protected] Beef Barbecue Chris Childs 860-355-9067 [email protected] Chili Cook-off Steve Ross 860-799-5421 [email protected] Charlie Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected] Trivia Nights


Chris Childs 860-355-9067 [email protected] Joan Temple 860-350-0529 [email protected] Cash for Causes (cash cards) Heidi Neff 860-354-3177 [email protected] SERRV (third-world gifts) Susan Zappulla-Peters 860-355-8830 [email protected] Daily Bread Food Pantry Sue Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected] NM Homeless Weekend Breakfast Charlie Meade 860-898-0107 [email protected] Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen Charlie Meade 860-898-0107 [email protected] Prayer Shawls / Prayer Squares Jan Steers 860-354-7210 [email protected] Mission Service Trips David Peters 860-355-1978 [email protected] 860-355-8830 Hm Groups Boy Scouts Brad Jones, Scoutmaster 860-868-5566 [email protected] Cub Scouts Eliot Johnson 860-868-7528 [email protected] Yoga Suzanne Fitch 860-355-1764 [email protected] cell: 203-994-0518

*****

Church Mission Outreach Efforts

Cash for Causes – PLUS! Retail Gift Cards

Have you checked out the list of participating stores on the kiosk in Fellowship Hall? Some of the stores give as much as 14% of the purchase price of the cards directly to the church. You can purchase these cards to use yourself or give as gifts. All you have to do is see Heidi Neff after church, pre-pay and she will order the cards for you. There are cards available from many stores in the Danbury Mall as well as grocery stores such as Stop and Shop, Shop Rite, Big Y and Stew Leonards. Also, Walmart, Staples, HomeGoods, LL Bean and so on. Orders are placed each Monday and the cards are available the following Sunday. For more information contact Heidi at 860-354-3177 or [email protected], with any questions you may have.

LaBonne’s Receipts A continuing thank you to everyone who contributes LaBonne’s receipts to the church. This has been an on-going source of revenue to add to our mission funds. Please save your receipts and place them in the wooden box on the table in Fellowship Hall. Questions to Sue Stauffacher at 860-354-1274.

AmazonSmile Do you shop at Amazon.com? If you do you can contribute to our church’s mission by linking your purchases to AmazonSmile. All you have to do is go to the church’s website and clink on the link. Amazon will make a donation of five percent of your purchase to Roxbury Church every time you make a purchase. You can also buy a cash card for Amazon from the church and then use it on AmazonSmile!

Helping our Church There are two areas in Fellowship Hall where you can make contributions to help the church financially.

1. By placing your LaBonne’s receipts into the lovely wooden box on the Opportunity Table. They add up to a half of one percent of the total before taxes. It takes a lot of them to make a reasonable return, so please keep them coming!

2. By placing your used toner cartridges into the plastic tub marked “recycle” underneath the Opportunity Table. Staples will take up to 20 per month and give us $2 credit for each one. (Please don’t place chargers here or cell phones. Used cell phones can be taken to the First Selectman’s office for use by our troops.)

Questions to Sue Stauffacher at 860-354-1274.

April Faith Matters Deadline:

March 15th. Email submissions to: Office@ roxburychurch.org

Church Office Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Leadership Listing (All 860- unless noted)

Ministers: The Congregation Moderator: Brian Neff, 354-3177 Clerk: Patricia Fraley, 868-0051 Treasurer: Bev Wolmer, 355-3343 Collector: Cathy Racz, 799-0180 Deacons: Charlie Stauffacher, 354-1274 Trustees: Charlie Meade, 354-1274 Stewardship: Colby Kalisher, 355-8012 Missions: Barbara Mousted,799-6501 Fellowship: Jeanne Steers, 354-7484 Pastoral Relations: TBA

Men’s Group: Charlie Meade 354-1274 Youth Group: Barb Cover, (203) 788-5823 Historian: Dale Pinchbeck, 355-4297 Librarian: Joan Temple, 350-0529 Secretary/Newsletter Editor: Nancy Glover , 355 -1978 Minister of Music: Sandra Kleisner, 868-9040 Custodian: Bruce Rossiter Pastor: The Rev. David F. Peters, office: 355-1978 home: 355-8830 [email protected]

March 2019Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

246:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Baptism Kinsley Light10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments11:45 AM Spaghetti Dinner planning11:45 AM Traveling Well

25 26Rev. Peters' day off

278:00 AM Minister's Coffee3:00 PM Loaves & Fishes Meal6:00 PM Cub Scout Dens7:00 PM Boy Scout Troop 65

284:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)7:30 PM Choir Rehearsal

1 26:00 AM Shelter Breakfast10:30 AM Mindfulness Group5:00 PM Spaghetti Supper

36:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Confirmation9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments

46:00 PM Beekeeping Class - M.Rice

5Rev. Peters' day off

6LENTASH WEDNESDAY

8:00 AM Minister's Coffee6:00 PM Cub Scout Dens6:00 PM Ash Wednesday Service7:00 PM Boy Scout Troop 65

7

4:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)7:00 PM Deacons

8 9

6:00 AM Shelter Breakfast8:00 AM Men's Breakfast10:30 AM Mindfulness Group

10LENTLENT 1Daylight Saving Time

6:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments12:30 PM Beekeeping Class - M.Rice

11

9:00 AM Daily Bread Food Pantry team

12

Rev. Peters' day off

13

8:00 AM Minister's Coffee6:00 PM Cub Scout Dens7:00 PM Boy Scout Troop 65

14

4:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)7:00 PM Cub Scout Pack 465

15

Newsletter Deadline

16

6:00 AM Shelter Breakfast8:00 AM Super Saturday Workshops10:30 AM Mindfulness Group

17LENTSt. Patrick’s DayLENT 2

6:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments11:45 AM Church Council

18


19


20


21

Holi

4:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)

22 23

6:00 AM Shelter Breakfast10:30 AM Mindfulness Group

24LENTLENT 3

6:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments

25 26


27


28


29 30

6:00 AM Shelter Breakfast10:30 AM Mindfulness Group7:00 PM Jazz Concert Doug White

31LENTLENT 4


1

April Fools' Day

2


3


4

4:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)6:00 PM Beekeeping Class - M.Rice7:00 PM Deacons

5 6


246:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Baptism Kinsley Light10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments11:45 AM Spaghetti Dinner planning11:45 AM Traveling Well

25 26Rev. Peters' day off



1 26:00 AM Shelter Breakfast10:30 AM Mindfulness Group5:00 PM Spaghetti Supper

36:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Confirmation9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments


5Rev. Peters' day off

6LENTASH WEDNESDAY

8:00 AM Minister's Coffee6:00 PM Cub Scout Dens6:00 PM Ash Wednesday Service7:00 PM Boy Scout Troop 65

7

4:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)7:00 PM Deacons

8 9

6:00 AM Shelter Breakfast8:00 AM Men's Breakfast10:30 AM Mindfulness Group

10LENTLENT 1Daylight Saving Time

6:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments12:30 PM Beekeeping Class - M.Rice

11

9:00 AM Daily Bread Food Pantry team

12


13


14

4:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)7:00 PM Cub Scout Pack 465

15

Newsletter Deadline

16

6:00 AM Shelter Breakfast8:00 AM Super Saturday Workshops10:30 AM Mindfulness Group

17LENTSt. Patrick’s DayLENT 2

6:00 AM Shelter Bkst9:00 AM Choir10:30 AM Worship, Church School11:30 AM Refreshments11:45 AM Church Council

18


19


20


21

Holi

4:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)

22 23


24LENTLENT 3


25 26


27


28


29 30

6:00 AM Shelter Breakfast10:30 AM Mindfulness Group7:00 PM Jazz Concert Doug White

31LENTLENT 4


1

April Fools' Day

2


3


4

4:00 PM Piano Lessons (Sandy)6:00 PM Beekeeping Class - M.Rice7:00 PM Deacons

5 6


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Roxbury Congregational Church, UCC 24 Church Street Roxbury, CT 06783 Address Service Requested

faith matters The Roxbury Congregational Church

A Congregation of the United Church of Christ “We Are A Community Seeking To Share God’s Love!”

Church Office, 24 Church Street Roxbury, Connecticut 06783-1703 Church Office: 860-355-1978 e-mail: [email protected] www.roxburychurch.org

NEWSLETTER – MARCH 2019 Worship – Sundays 10:30 a.m.

Church School with Nursery

JAZZ CONCERT March 30

No Matter Who You Are, or Where You Are On Life’s Journey, You Are Welcome Here!

faith matters 0319.pdf · realization of the depth of god’s mercy for us and for all. for as...

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