ppeeaaccee - brookside congregational church...
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THE BROOKSIDE CHRONICLE Brookside Congregational Church, United Church of Christ
2013 Elm Street, Manchester, NH 03104-2528
Tel. (603) 669-2807 • Fax (603) 668-9041
Visit Our Web Site: www.brooksidecc.org
December, 2013
Room to Grow, Room to Serve, Room for You An Open and Affirming Congregation
WHAT’S INSIDE
Advent & Christmas, at a Glance
A summary of the season. page 2
“Bits and Pieces”
Various items of interest. page 11
Christian Formation for All Ages
Nurturing our faith. page 5
December Bible Readings, Worship Info.
Prepare the way… page 14
From Dawn’s Desk
Growing in peace. p. 3-4
“From the Brookside Workbench”
A new maintenance feature. page 13
Many Ways to Help Others
Share as you are able. p. 7-8
Music for the Season
A busy, musical month! page 6
Order Your Poinsettias
Deadline is December 16. page 6
Peace for Kids
December activities for you! page 12
When Do I…?
Sunday volunteer schedules. page 15
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Join Pastor Dawn in the Manning House
for a Christmas Story. Refreshments
will be served.
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…details on page 6
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December, 2013 2
Advent and Christmas at Brookside
Sunday, Dec. 1 – Advent 1 (Communion Sunday; Loaves & Fishes)
10:00 am – Worship (with Advent Candlelighting) and Church School
Sunday, Dec. 8 – Advent 2
10:00 am – All ages worship; Advent Candlelighting and
Decorating the Sanctuary Christmas Tree
Thursday, Dec. 12
5:30 pm – Women’s Union Christmas Meeting/Yankee Swap
Sunday, Dec. 15 – Advent 3 (New Members Received)
10:00 am – Worship (with Advent Candlelighting) and Church School
4:00 pm – Meet in Choir Room for Caroling
Wednesday, Dec. 18
3-4 pm – Children’s Story Time, in Manning House Parlor
Saturday, Dec. 21
2:30 pm – Carillon Prelude
3:00 pm – 4th Annual Christmas Concert, “Christmas at Brookside”
featuring Choirs, Handbells, and Martell Spagnolo
Sunday, Dec. 22 – Advent 4
10:00 am – Worship (with Advent Candlelighting) and Church School
11:15 am – Christmas Basket assembly in Fellowship Hall
Tuesday, Dec. 24 – CHRISTMAS EVE
Noon Church Office closes at Noon today.
4:30 pm – Children’s Christmas Eve Service, featuring a mini musical;
this service is especially planned with children in mind.
7:00 pm – Traditional Candlelight Service
Wednesday, Dec. 25 Merry Christmas! Building Closed.
Thursday, Dec. 26 Church Office opens at Noon today.
Sunday, Dec. 29 10:00 am – Worship; NO Church School (child care available for 5 & under)
Wednesday, Jan. 1 New Year’s Day – Building Closed
Sunday, Jan. 5 – Epiphany (Communion, Loaves & Fishes)
10:00 am – Worship – Journey of the Magi; Church School begins new Unit
~ See page 6 to order Poinsettias for Christmas. ~
December, 2013 3
From Dawn’s Desk O little town of Bethlehem,
how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by;
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light.
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight. This beloved Christmas Carol was written by Phillips Brooks, renowned preacher and pastor of
Trinity Church in Boston. He wrote the carol in 1868 years after a pilgrimage to the Holy Land where
he worshipped in the Church of the Nativity on Christmas Eve. The experience made an indelible
impression on him.
I am reminded of the Brookside/Temple Adath Yeshurun pilgrimage in April, 2013. One of our
stops was Bethlehem in the occupied territory of Palestine on the West Bank. Biblically, Bethlehem was
the location of the story of Ruth when she left Moab with her mother-in-law Naomi. It was the home of
King David when he was the youngest of Jesse’s sons, a shepherd boy, and the least likely in the world’s
eyes to be chosen by God. The prophet Micah indicates that the messiah will be born in Bethlehem:
from you shall come forth for me (God) one who is to rule in Israel… And they shall live secure, for now
he shall be great to the ends of the earth: and he shall be the one of peace. Of course, Christians inter-
pret this prophecy as meaning Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
I can’t say I had the same inspiring experience at the Church of the Nativity as Phillip Brooks had.
The Church of the Nativity is actually managed by three churches: Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox,
and Ethiopian Orthodox, and each has their own chancel area. The Church is built over the entrance to
the cave where Jesus is said to have been born. The entrance is a small door through which a hundred
pushing pilgrims from all over the world tried to fit simultaneously. Not an experience of Christian
hospitality going through the door.
December, 2013 4
As in Jesus day, Bethlehem is an occupied land. Below is a picture of the security wall from the
Bethlehem side with graffiti. The merchants are really hurting, and life in Bethlehem is difficult when it
comes to providing one’s family with the basic necessities.
I don’t think Bethlehem was a serene, Christmas card village in Jesus’ day either. The Romans were
forcing a census to extract more taxes from the already overburdened people. The town was congested
with pilgrims competing for lodging and other things. And, into this chaos the Prince of Peace was born,
Emmanuel, God with us. Then, as now, the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
In my own spiritual practices, I have been delving deeper into what peace means; not peace, as the
world gives it, but the peace of Christ: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. (Jn 14:27). How
does the peace of Christ, not only keep me centered, but also pour out into the world? How do hopes and
fears affect peace? How do we deepen our spiritual practice as a peacemaker? What is the difference
between being a doormat for Jesus and choosing a nonviolent response? How is hospitality related to
peacemaking? How do we live peace?
If any of these questions stir you during the Advent season, then join us for Monday Matters and
The Things that Make for Peace. May Advent be not only a preparation for Christmas parties and family
gatherings, but a time of reflection and deepening spiritual practice for you as we prepare for Christ’s
coming.
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel….
Pastor Dawn
December, 2013 5
Church School – Fran Hakenson Keeps Us Informed
We thank Karen Horsch, Suzanne Burke, Alison and Alex Kivikoski, and Lance
Auger for teaching the unit on “The Lord is My Shepherd” which ended November
10th
. Thanks also to those who helped with the Advent workshop.
On November 17th
we started our Christmas unit, “Jesus is Born.” In this unit
Amy Woloski and Dawn Brockett are teaching Cooking, Scott Milne is teaching
Science, and Kurt Strandson is teaching Storytelling.
December 1st there will be a Multiage Video workshop, since it is Thanksgiving
weekend.
December 8th
we will have intergenerational worship where we will decorate the Sanctuary’s
Christmas Tree with the ornaments that we made at the Advent Workshop on November 24th
.
December 15th
will be the last workshop of the “Jesus is Born” unit.
December 22nd
the choir will be presenting a cantata – the Christmas Story in word and song. We
invite all children to attend this service. However, we realize that it might be too long for very young
children. This Sunday and the next, Nursery care will be open for all children 5 and under. Children can
be brought to the Nursery at the beginning of worship or any time during the service.
January 5th
we will begin our next unit – more about this unit in the January Chronicle.
Confirmation Class to Gather on December 1st
Confirmands will meet on Sunday, December 1 from 11:30-1 PM. Mentors are welcomed to join
us, but it is not required. Lunch will be provided. The focus of our discussion will be on God: what we
understand about God, how God is portrayed in culture, and what the church has to say about God.
Monday Matters: December Focus Is “Peace”
This weekly opportunity for study and discussion on a variety of topics of faith and ethics meets
from 7-8:30 pm in the Manning House parlor. You can come as your schedule allows. During Decem-
ber, we continue the series “The Things that Make for Peace,” as follows:
Dec. 2 (2) Finding Peace – led by Rev. Dr. David Reynolds
Dec. 9 (3) Practicing Peace
Dec. 16 (4) Extending Peace
The group will resume in January, beginning with:
Jan. 6 Epiphany – When Grace Appears – Growing Together in Discipleship
A Note from Heath
We’d like to thank everyone who attended our open house on Sunday, October 6th
. Close to 300 invi-
tations were either mailed or handed out, and we had well over 80 people come and see our new home.
Most were Brookside folk, some were old friends, and we even made some new friends. I was amazed to
learn that many people who had been coming to Brookside for several years had never seen the inside of
the cottage. We were very happy to open the house to everyone and were glad all who attended had a
great time. As time and resources allow, Bobbie and I will be decorating and making improvements here
and there to make the space even more ‘homey’. If you missed the open house and would like to see the
inside of the cottage, please see me or Bobbie and we will gladly arrange a time for you to come by.
December, 2013 6
Much Music this Month
It's hard to believe, but the holidays are upon us again
and all our choirs are busily preparing! Please join us for
our 4th annual concert "Christmas at Brookside" on Sat-
urday, December 21 at 3:00 pm when all our choirs are
performing and we will again welcome UCC pastor Mar-
tell Spagnolo as we celebrate the baby Jesus, the infant
king through beautiful music. We hope you will bring
your friends and family to this wonderful event, but make
plans to come early to enjoy an added bonus – the sounds
of our own carillon! Heath has volunteered to play carols
and more as we gather for the concert. The delightful
sounds of our tower bells will begin at 2:30 and we will have cookies and cocoa to keep you warm.
Don't miss the chance to escape the busy-ness and enjoy the "reason for the season," and if you are able,
please bring non-perishable items to share with our friends at New Horizons!
In the meantime, the Chancel Choir and Junior Choir member Kyra Whitehead have been invited to
sing at the "Freedom Salute" in honor of the NH Army National Guard's 169th Medevac unit that has
returned from Afghanistan. We sang for their deployment ceremony last year and have been looking
forward to welcoming them home. The public is invited, so come and show your gratitude for our troops
on Saturday, December 7 at 11:00 am in Concord.
A little closer to home, we will be Christmas caroling at New Horizons and then to our neighbors in
the north end on Sunday, December 15. Please meet us in the choir room at 4 pm if you would like to
join us – all are welcome!
Don't forget, the Chancel Choir will present a cantata – the Christmas story told through word and
song – on the morning of December 22, and our Junior Choir will be presenting our first mini musical
on Christmas Eve at the 4:30 Family Service. Be sure to come and hear them share their talents as we
celebrate the birth of Jesus, and stay for our Traditional Candlelight service when our Chancel and Bell
Choirs will sing and ring in the peace and joy of Christmas as we welcome our savior...the infant King.
Blessings for a joyous Christmastime!
In peace and harmony,
Kim
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Order a Poinsettia to Honor a Loved One
The Sanctuary will be decorated with poinsettias beginning December 22. If you
would like to donate a poinsettia, please fill out this form and return it to the church office
by Monday, December 16. The cost is $11 each.
I/We _________________________________________________________ wish to donate
______ poinsettia(s) in memory of ____________________________________________
Enclosed is my check for $ ________ (made payable to Brookside Congregational Church).
~ Plants may be taken home after the Christmas Eve candlelight service ~
December, 2013 7
Holiday Basket Project: Sharing Our Blessings
Our annual “all-church” effort to provide Holiday Meals for families in need in the
Manchester area has begun, with 48 Thanksgiving baskets distributed on November 25.
We now look toward providing meal baskets for Christmas. Given the extensive
need in our local community, many of you expressed the interest in having Brookside
try to do additional baskets for the Christmas effort as we had in the past, so we will be
working to provide 60 baskets for Christmas. You may want to consider our “Gift of
Giving” cards which can be associated with monetary donations towards meal baskets and can be mean-
ingful gifts during the Christmas season. Food donations are also welcome.
Here are some key dates related to the Brookside Christmas Meal Basket effort –
Sundays, December 1 & 8 – Visit the Holiday Basket Table to sign up to donate funds or food dona-
tions. Gift of Giving cards will be available as well (Fellowship Hall).
Sunday, December 15 – All food donations for the baskets need to be delivered to Fellowship Hall to
allow us to inventory food donations to prepare for basket setups. Monetary donations still very much
appreciated, and “Gift of Giving” cards will still be available.
Saturday, December 21 – Set up for Christmas basket preparation (8:30 AM, Fellowship Hall).
Sunday, December 22 – “All Church basket filling”– filling 60 baskets for Christmas meals (Immedi-
ately following Sunday service – Fellowship Hall).
Monday, December 23 – Basket distribution/Agency pick-up (8:45 AM, Sanctuary).
Thank you to all who have made this all-church effort possible! This effort has definitely made a dif-
ference in our community!
Christmas Fund: We Have Come to Bear the Light of Christ
For 111 years, the Christmas Fund for the Veterans of the Cross and the Emergency Fund – one of
four Special Mission Offerings of the United Church of Christ – has been a way in which we, as mem-
bers of the UCC and the predecessor denominations from which our Church was born, share the light
and love of Jesus Christ to those who have so faithfully and selflessly served, and who now find them-
selves facing unforeseen financial crises.
This year, Brookside Church will be receiving offerings for the Christmas Fund throughout the
month of December via special envelopes in the pew racks, along with a portion of the Christmas Eve
offering. On behalf of clergy and lay employees and families whose lives are touched by your giving to
the Christmas Fund Offering, we express profound gratitude for your generosity and compassion.
New Horizons on New Year's Eve
Volunteers are needed to help serve the evening meal at New Horizons Soup
Kitchen on Tuesday, December 31. Brookside will provide the 'servers' for the even-
ing on New Year's Eve this year, and, as you might guess, there may be an extra large
crowd of folks in need of a hot meal that evening. The hours of service are 4:00 to
6:00 pm, and we may need a larger number of volunteers than typical during other
parts of the year. If you are able to give a little of your time on the last day of 2013 to
offer folks coming to New Horizons hopes and prayers along with a hot meal, please
contact Rod Leavell at 668-5574 or [email protected].
December, 2013 8
How to Help Those Affected by Typhoon Haiyan
The United Church of Christ has issued an appeal for $250,000 for Typhoon Haiyan response. The
UCC will support early response and recovery efforts of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines
as well as partners in the ACT Alliance that have significant operations in the Philippines, including the
National Council of Churches in the Philippines, United Methodist Committee on Relief, Lutheran
World Relief and Christian Aid.
Initial support grants funded by One Great Hour of Sharing have been sent to the ACT Alliance and
UCCP. Initial response activities will likely include material resource provision, emergency shelter
items, drinking water and cash for work programs. Long-term response initiatives and partners will be
supported as funds are available. It is likely a disaster of this magnitude will require multiple years for
recovery.
How you can help:
1. Pray for the people impacted by Typhoon Haiyan, UCC partner organizations active in response
efforts, and all humanitarian workers.
2. To assist people in recovering from this disaster, please make a gift payable to Brookside Congre-
gational Church and mark in the memo portion “Typhoon Haiyan.” Checks can be placed in the offering
plate and the total collected will subsequently be mailed to the NH Conference so that Brookside gets
proper acknowledgment of the donations.
OR you can make a secure online donation to the International Disaster Relief fund (search - UCC,
International Disaster Relief). Please note “Typhoon Haiyan” in the Comments Box.
Zimbabwe Notes and Follow-up
We have received word that the container that was shipped earlier this year has arrived in Beira
(Mozambique). It should arrive at its destination within 6-10 days.
There was so much excitement during the month of October when we had 12 visiting delegates from
UCC in Zimbabwe! Thank you to all who participated by hosting guests overnight, helping with plan-
ning and carrying out all the background support for the Ukama Fair, and attending/leading various
events and activities throughout the Manchester/Concord area during our guests’ three-week stay in
New Hampshire.
Empty Bowls Sets a Record
This year’s Empty Bowls soup fundraiser was the biggest and best ever, raising $9,500 for New
Horizons from the sale of 460 handmade ceramic bowls. Thank you to all who participated!
December, 2013 9
Holy Communion
The sacrament of Communion will be celebrated on Sunday, December 1, served by: Ellen
Tourigny, Mary Pratt, Anne Rodman, Judy Foley, Chris Taylor, and George Abbott, with Denise Forest
assisting.
Please note, we use gluten-free bread for Communion, so that those who have a gluten intolerance
may participate fully in the sacrament.
Will You Join Us?
New members will be received into the congregation during worship on Sunday, December 15. If
you didn’t attend the orientation session in November but are interested in joining, please speak with
Pastor Dawn (669-2807, ext. 101 or [email protected]).
If You Would Like to Schedule a Baptism
Avery Emerson Bouthiette, daughter of Craig & Vanessa Bouthiette, was baptized on November 10.
Ezra Greene Schneider, son of Karl & Laura Schneider, was baptized on November 24.
If you would like to schedule a Baptism, please speak with Pastor Dawn (see contact info above).
Joined in Holy Matrimony
Congratulations to Jen Hoysradt and James Gartner who were married here on November 2.
Faithful Stewards Corner
Our thanks to:
Marylou Bissonnette, Louise Popp, and Nancy Popp, for a second year of chairing the
Brookside Christmas Fair.
Women’s Union, for decorating Manning House.
Dawn & Megan Brockett, for setting up the Sanctuary Christmas Tree.
Deacons, for decorating the Sanctuary.
Rod Leavell, Pete Lovejoy, Bob Dunn, Herb Pence, Tom Cleary, Bruce Richards, Joe
Forest, Anne Lachance, for helping distribute the Thanksgiving boxes.
Jan Strabone, Cathy Knox, Dorice Reitchel, Rosemary Hoysradt, for helping with
decorations at the Advent Workshop.
Mary Pratt, Ellen Tourigny, Anne Lachance for Advent Workshop help.
Judy Foley and Russ Dunn, for making soup for the Advent Workshop.
Alex Kivikoski, Rejoice Dhliwayo, Thoko Dhliwayo, Kate Stantial, for helping with
sandwiches at the Advent Workshop.
If any ministry member has someone to mention for the “Faithful Stewards Corner,” send their
names to Pastor Dawn by the 15th
of each month for the Chronicle.
December, 2013 10
Women’s Union Plans a Yankee Swap
The December Women's Union meeting will be held on Thursday, Dec. 12. The
evening will be hosted by Carole Whitcher, who has planned a delightful holiday
dinner along with a Yankee Swap. Festivities begin at 5:30 pm and everyone is
invited. Dinner is $7.00 per person. Those who would like to participate in the
Yankee Swap should bring a new, wrapped gift with a value of $10.00. Please
RSVP to Donna Moody if you plan to attend, 695-4128.
How the Fair Fared this Year… Fair Enough!
Thanks to the help of nearly 75 volunteers, the annual Christmas Fair was a big success. About 1,000
people attended the fair, about 300 more than last year. Pastor Dawn welcomed the vendors and invited
all to join in a prayer before the doors opened to the public. Many area merchants contributed door prize
items, including: Cleary Cleaners, Hoppagrass Florist, Belmont Hall, Cactus Jacks/T-Bones, Farm and
Flower, and The Kitchen.
Fran Hakenson chaired the raffle table which raised $577 in addition to providing fun for all. The
bake sale was chaired by Robin Popp, with help from Vange Popp. Donations of baked goods exceeded
all expectations, and raised almost $1,600. Once again, Dave Gates chaired the used books, and set a
record over previous years with $465 in sales.
Marylou Bissonnette and Melody Whitcher, worked tirelessly in the weeks leading up to the fair,
preparing Brookside Vineyards Grape Jam, decorating, cleaning, cooking and soliciting donations for
door prizes. Carole and Melody Whitcher (aka Mrs. Claus) chaired the luncheon raising $636. Along
with their volunteers, they treated a record number of guests to beans, hot dogs, chili, cornbread, cole-
slaw, and desserts.
Tom Cleary's rookie season as chair of the White Elephant Sale was a success raising $283. He
worked hard to move a ton of merchandise out of Fellowship Hall. (Unfortunately they weren't able to
sell both tons.) The Jewelry table was chaired by Martha Cushing and Connie Jowdy for the second
year, and with the help of their volunteers, it was a shining success raising $216. Penny Stillman and all
of the ladies of the thrift shop operated the Antiques and Collectibles table raising $495 and kept the
Thrift Shop open during the fair. Houseplants grew in abundance this year and Hope Pearson and Sarah
Merrill worked all day selling over $200 worth of plants which were started by church members in the
weeks leading up to the fair.
Many thanks to all who assisted in setting up and cleaning up after the fair. After any large event it is
always nice to see fresh faces with some energy left to help with the clean-up.
Brad Baylies provided live Christmas music and Glenn Greenidge served as our announcer from the
stage which was made to look like an old-fashioned Christmas by Marylou Bissonnette and Vange Popp.
The fair grossed over $6,000. We are anticipating expenses of approximately $700. Thanks to all
who gave time and talent to make this year's fair a success! A testament to the potential for great accom-
plishments, when the entire Brookside community works together.
Merry Christmas to All!
Louise, Marylou and Nancy (The Popp Sisters)
December, 2013 11
Kudos to This Brookside Member!
Our own Laura (Braciale) Schneider is featured at the deCordova Museum in Lincoln,
Mass. as part of their 2013 Biennial Exhibition, running through April 13, 2014. For more
information, log on to www.decordova.org/laura-braciale.
Seniors: Tour Manchester’s Holiday Light Displays
The Manchester Police Dept. is sponsoring a Senior Lights Tour on Wednesday, Decem-
ber 4, leaving from the JFK Ice Arena parking lot at 5:30 pm. After the tour, light (haha, get
it?) refreshments will be served. We will return to the JFK by 8:30 pm. Pre-registration is
required; to reserve a spot, please call 792-5431 by December 1.
Interfaith Women to Feature Global Holiday Music
Interfaith Women of NH invites all women to a musical program titled “Holiday Music
Around the World” on Thursday, December 5, 6:45 pm at the First Congregational Church,
corner of Hanover and Union Streets in Manchester. Presenters will include a South Sudanese
group of dancers; Song of the Lark singers Rahel and Sue; Aksara a cappella ensemble; plus
more. Registration begins at 6:30, and there will be refreshments after the program. Please
RSVP to Karen at [email protected] or 641-6834.
NH Conference UCC Hosts Advent Open House ~ Wednesday, December 11 from 2-4 pm ~ 140 Sheep Davis Road, Pembroke ~
Come one and all: tour the Conference facility and meet your Conference staff. Enjoy
fellowship, holiday music, fresh baked cookies, and an abundance of holiday cheer!
RSVPs are appreciated, but not required (to do so, call 225-6647 or email
Women’s Celebration Theme Is “Together We Can”
Every four years, since 1982, the United Church of Christ, Women Leaders of New Eng-
land (UCCWLNE) have sponsored a spring weekend gathering of women, both clergy and lay.
This year's event will be the weekend of March 28-30, 2014 at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in
Portland, Maine. There will be worship, keynote speakers, music, workshops & forums, Bible
study, marketplace Connections and more. Find more details and registration information at
www.uccwomenscelebration.org.
Fifth Sunday = Tour of Brookside Church
Learn about some of Brookside’s secrets during this tour of the Church and Manning
House. Bill Hoysradt will be your knowledgeable tour guide – meet him by the Coke machine
in Fellowship Hall around 11:15 a.m. on Sunday, December 29.
December, 2013 12
Kids’ Activity Page
December, 2013 13
From the Brookside Workbench
This new feature will highlight some of the maintenance that is required
in and around this large facility on an ongoing basis. Those of you who own
your own home can only imagine… multiply your maintenance issues by 10
or 20, and you might get an idea of what we deal with to keep this “ark” in
good and seaworthy condition.
First… an Item of Note
The garbage disposal in the Fellowship Hall Kitchen is broken – kaput – out of order – so please do
not try to use it! All food waste should be put in the garbage cans. Thanks.
Completed “Out of the Ordinary” Projects
Sealed foundation cracks and waterproofed concrete outside of Fellowship Hall.
Installed a walkway to the Thrift Shop shed.
Sanctuary front steps masonry repairs done. This is a temporary fix; in the future more work is
needed to be done.
Replaced one groundwater sump pump outside of Fellowship Hall and repaired the other (will also
need to be replaced in the near future).
Replaced two broken gutters by the Fellowship Hall entrance.
Repair work done to the MH boiler system due to a blockage.
Upcoming Projects
Waterproofing FH Windows.
Reglazing some of the Brookside building and the sexton cottage windows.
Chimney cap on furnace chimney.
Helping Hands Always Welcome
If you are available to volunteer some time to help with some other maintenance projects, please
contact the church office. A couple of projects we have on the “to do list” are painting, preparing the
flower beds for winter.
To Your Health!
The Parish Nurse has hours here every week, on Thursdays from 10:00 to
11:30 a.m. in Room D. Avail yourself of free nurse consultation, blood pres-
sure checks, health information, referrals and more. Be sure to check out the
Parish Nurse bulletin board across from Room E to learn about events throughout Manchester!
Free hearing screening will be offered on Thursday, December 5, same hours as above. Please call
663-8004 to register.
Weather Policy: when Manchester Schools are closed due to inclement weather, the Parish Nurse
Office will be closed – and the nurse will not be here.
If You’re Hospitalized…
Remember to call the church office (669-2807) if you want the pastor to know that you’re in the
hospital. Due to federal law, hospitals are not permitted to provide us with this information.
December, 2013 14
15 15 15 15 Chronicle Deadline 15 15 15 15
Please submit all items for the January Chronicle by Sunday, December 15. You can deliver them
in person, send them by mail, or e-mail them to: [email protected]. Thank you.
Ask, and You Shall Receive
If you would like pledge envelopes for 2014, please contact Vicky in the church office (669-2807 or
[email protected]) and she will be happy to get you a set.
Looking Ahead to Annual Reports for 2013
Please submit all Annual Reports (written and financial) by Monday, January 6 (if via email, as a
Word document to [email protected]). This deadline is necessary to have the booklet ready by
January 17. The Annual Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, January 26, immediately following worship.
Worship and Bible Readings for December
Each issue of the Chronicle features monthly Bible readings, so that you can
read and reflect on your own, at a time that suits you best. Following are the
readings for December; underlined passages will be used in worship.
December 1 – Advent 1
Hebrew Scriptures Isaiah 2:1-5
Psalm 122
Christian Testament Romans 13:11-14
Matthew 24:36-44
Sermon: “Living into Peace through Hope”
December 8 – Advent 2: Tree Decorating
Hebrew Scriptures Isaiah 11:1-10
Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19
Christian Testament Romans 15:4-13
Matthew 3:1-12
December 15 – Advent 3
Hebrew Scriptures Isaiah 35:1-10
Psalm 146:5-10
Christian Testament James 5:7-10
Matthew 11:2-11
Sermon: “What Do You See and Hear?”
December 22 – Advent 4
Hebrew Scriptures Isaiah 7:10-16
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19
Christian Testament Romans 1:1-7
Matthew 1:18-25
Sermon: “Signs of God with Us”
December 24 – Christmas Eve
- 4:30 Children’s Service with Mini Musical
- 7:00 Candlelight Service
December 29
Hebrew Scriptures Isaiah 63:7-9
Psalm 148
Christian Testament Hebrews 2:10-18
Matthew 2:13-23
Surprise
December, 2013 15
USHERS
December 1 December 8
Scott Antonucci David Migliori
Betsy Antonucci Cindy Migliori
Jeff Fletcher Bob Dunn
David Gates Sis Dunn
December 15 December 22
Richard Rodman Mike Goodman
Bruce Richards Gail Goodman
Don Waldrupe Jeff Rapson
Greg Berry Tricia Lucas
December 24 December 29
All Bob Merrill
Deacons Sarah Merrill
Usher Louise Popp
Nancy Popp
DEACONS OF THE WEEK
December 1 December 8
Ellen Tourigny Chris Taylor
Mary Pratt Scott Milne
December 15 December 22
Anne Rodman Anne Rodman
Scott Milne Chris Taylor
December 24 December 29
Denise Forest Denise Forest
Anne Rodman Megan Brockett
DOORPERSON
December 1 December 8
Bob Boisvert Chris Taylor
December 15 December 22
Bruce Richards Morehouse Family
December 29
Tricia Lucas
ACOLYTES
December 1 December 8
Kyra Whitehead Derrick Dixon
December 15 December 22
Owen Strandson Sam Boisvert
December 24 December 29
Sienna Milne Laura Tourigny
READERS
December 1 December 8
Denise Forest Jeff Rapson
December 15 December 22
Herb Pence Jean Dickson
December 29
Cathy Knox
Fellowship Hour Schedule
The schedule for the next three
months is as follows:
Dec: Stewardship Ministry
Jan: Mission Ministry
December, 2013 16
Financial Update, In a Nutshell…
Any questions regarding the detail of the
treasurer's report below may be directed to Gail
Goodman at 656-9038, or e-mail her at
TREASURER'S REPORT
For the period ending October 31, 2013
Actual vs. Budget
Month Actual Budget Var.
Total Income 26,681 29,816 (3,134)
Total Expenses 31,279 33,847 (2,568)
Net Gain (Loss) ($4,598) ($4,032) (566)
Year-to-date Actual Budget Var.
Total Income 279,044 286,291 (7,246)
Total Expenses 277,777 293,880 (16,103)
Net Gain (Loss) 1,268 (7,588) 8,857
Actual Budget Var.
Total YTD Pledges
142,874 149,894 (7,019)
Brookside Congregational Church
United Church of Christ
2013 Elm Street
Manchester, NH 03104
Telephone (603) 669-2807
Fax (603) 668-9041
Web Site: www.brooksidecc.org
Sunday Worship & Church School: 10 am
Church Office Hours: Monday – Thursday,
9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Fridays, 9:00 am to NOON
Rev. Dr. Dawn Berry, Pastor
Office Hours 9–3, Mon.–Thurs.
(Friday is the Pastor’s Day Off)
Office tel. 669-2807 x 101; home 746-5033
email: [email protected]
Please remember that the pastor is frequently
called away, or may have other commitments
during the day. It is best to call first if you
need to speak with her.
A Note From Your Stewardship Committee
This holiday season, we thank everyone who has supported Brookside Congregational Church this
past year with their time, talent and financial contributions and look forward to support from all of our
members in the year ahead. If you need a convenient way to make regular offerings or if you plan to
make an additional gift before the end of the year, we encourage you to look into our electronic giving
options. As the pace of life speeds up, especially around the holidays, you may find electronic giving a
most welcome way to make contributions. More information will be available on the website soon
(www.brooksidecc.org), or contact the church office at 669-2807 for more information.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
The objective of The Brookside Chronicle is to disperse church news; inspire people to a new
awareness; and interpret the ministry of our church. We will be faithful to the truth, honest and car-
ing, and strive for accuracy.
The Chronicle staff appreciates and welcomes input from all organizations, boards, ministry
groups, members and friends of Brookside Congregational Church. We reserve the right to edit, cut
or leave out articles according to available space, timeliness and priority.
BROOKSIDE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST (Dec. 2013) 2013 ELM STREET, MANCHESTER, NH 03104-2528 ~ (603) 669-2807
FAX: (603) 668-9041; WEB SITE: WWW.BROOKSIDECC.ORG OFFICERS, MINISTRY GROUPS AND STAFF MEMBERS (Chairs underlined; * denotes Council Members)
Moderator
Laura Sevigny * Treasurer
Gail Goodman * Clerk
Dale Trombley *
Members at Large
Dave Migliori * Nancy Lachance * Stewardship
Greg Berry Dawn Brockett Joe Lachance Tricia Lucas Jeff Rapson * TJ Rapson Kerry Richardson Roger Sevigny * Cindy Watts
Christian Formation
George Abbott Megan Brockett Judy Foley Denise Forest Scott Milne Mary Pratt Anne Rodman Chris Taylor Ellen Tourigny * Gary Trahan Mission
Pamela Brown Liberty Dhliwayo Jean Dickson Anne Lachance * Rod Leavell Cindy Migliori Beverly Robie * Jane Sherwin
Paula Curry, Thrift Shop Rep.
TBD, Women’s Union Rep.
Called to Care Coordinators
Martha Cushing Sarah Duffley Human Resources
Jeff Fletcher Robert Merrill Calley Milne Pastoral Relations
Becky Boisvert Tricia Lucas Scott Milne Mark Watts Church Delegates
Jean Dickson Joe Lachance Kerry Richardson Anne Rodman Roger Sevigny Dale Trombley
Trustee to Elliot
Roger Sevigny
Hearts & Hands/ Prayer Shawl Ministry Coordinator
Rosemary Hoysradt Thrift Shop
Penny Stillman & Paula Curry, co-chairs Bill Hoysradt, Treas.
Dawn Brockett Sis Dunn Gail Goodman Joe Lachance
Women’s Union
Marylou Bissonnette, President
Sis Dunn, Nancy Popp, program/meeting chairs Jean Dickson, Secretary/Treasurer
Librarian/Historian
Donna Moody
Sexton
Heath Auger voice mail #105
Pastor
Rev. Dr. Dawn Berry * voice mail #101
Dir. of Music/Organist
Kim Whitehead voice mail #108
Church School Coordinator
Rev. Fran Hakenson voice mail #104
Acting Youth Coordinator
Ellen Tourigny
Parish Administrator
Vicky Wisner voice mail #100
Admin. Assistant
Nicole Grinnell voice mail #103
Thanks to all who serve in so many capacities.
December, 2013 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9:00 am Chancel Choir rehearsal 9:00 am Pastor’s Day Off 9:00 am
10:00 am Worship – Advent 1 Noon “Hearts & Thrift Shop (PDO) Thrift Shop
Communion; Loaves & Fishes) Hands” craft group 10:00 am
11:15 am Junior Choir rehearsal 1:30 pm Worship, Parish Nurse &
11:30 am Confirmation Class Evergreen Place 6:00 pm 6:00 pm Hearing Screening
Stewardship Ministry Handbell Choir
7:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:30 pm 6:45 Interfaith Women
Monday Matters Christian Formation Chancel Choir at First Cong. Church
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 9:00 am Chancel Choir rehearsal 9:00 am (PDO) 9:00 am
10:00 am Worship – Advent 2 Thrift Shop Thrift Shop
(All Ages Worship – Tree Decorating) Noon “Hearts & 10:00 am
11:15 am Junior Choir rehearsal Hands” craft group Parish Nurse
11:30 am Mission Ministry 6:00 pm
Handbell Choir 5:30 pm
7:00 pm 6:00 pm Council 7:30 pm Women’s Union
Monday Matters of Ministries Chancel Choir
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 9:00 am Chancel Choir rehearsal Deadline to Order 9:00 am (PDO) 8:30 am Christmas
10:00 am Worship – Advent 3 Poinsettias 3-4 pm Children’s Thrift Shop Basket preparation
(New Members Received) Christmas Story Hour 10:00 am 9:00 am
11:15 am Junior Choir rehearsal Noon “Hearts & Parish Nurse Thrift Shop
4:00 pm Meet for Caroling Hands” craft group 6:00 pm
Handbell Choir 3:00 pm 4th Annual
CHRONICLE 7:00 pm 7:30 pm Christmas Concert
DEADLINE Monday Matters Chancel Choir
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 9:00 am Chancel Choir rehearsal 8:45 am Christmas Office Closes at Office Opens at (PDO) 9:00 am
10:00 am Worship – Advent 4 Basket Distribution Noon Today A Noon Today Thrift Shop
11:10 am Christmas Basket Assembly VERY
11:30 am Junior Choir rehearsal 4:30 pm Children’s MERRY (NO Thrift Shop or
11:30-Close Organ Fund Benefit at Xmas Eve Service CHRISTMAS Parish Nurse)
Shorty’s Manchester (Building Closed)
7:00 pm Candlelight ll
Xmas Eve Service
29 30 31 Note: Generally, only church-related activities are
listed here; however, be aware that many
outside groups use space in our facility on a
regular basis, as well.
A full calendar of events is available on our
website, www.brooksidecc.org; click to any
page and find the link on the left side.
9:00 am Chancel Choir rehearsal
10:00 am Worship
11:15 am Church Tour
4:00 pm Vol. to
New Horizons