the shingle dec 2012

The Shingle December, 2012 of 25

The Newsletter of Gilead Presbyterian Church, Carmel, NY December, 2012

Dear Friends, December is here, and whether we like it or not, Christmas Day is around the corner, which means everywhere we turn, we’re faced with it. As the old song says, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go.” I do love Christmas. We will “green” the church this weekend and light the Carmel town Christmas trees, heralded by angels singing—or at least the Gilead kids. We’ll have our traditional “now where did we store that last year?” discussions, eat a pot-luck meal, and wonder when we’re going to get the decorations up in our own houses. Christmas decorations are everywhere, not just at Gilead, but all over; the same old tired, wonderful songs have begun their incessant December drumming; and the marvelous, maddening shopping for presents has begun. It never ceases to amaze me that a world which can be so hateful all year can join in a virtually universal attempt at love (or at least civility (or perhaps cease-fire)) for a few weeks in the dead of winter. Well, I always say that our natural human tendency is towards fear and self-preservation. It’s the supernatural power of Christ's love and light that empowers us to transcend the darkness. So maybe it's only natural that we can only sustain Light for a few days at a time, when we're trying to do it on our own. But the whole point of Christmas is that God loves us so much that God sent Christ into the world to liberate us from our darkness. We honor this season as a time of giving, and we talk a lot in church about liberating the oppressed, but how can we help others when we're chained ourselves? This Christmas, I invite you to give yourself a gift: the gift of liberation. Believe the Good News of the Light. Give up the anger, fear, guilt, and self-preservation that bind your heart. Cast off your chains and trust that God loves you, and God will take care of things in God's good time. The grace is there, waiting to be accepted: God's eternal and ever-renewing Christmas gift. Have yourself a merry little Christmas, and when your heart is Light, reach out and invite the oppressed around you to join in singing your carol of liberation.

Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening

to them. Suddenly there was an earthquake, so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were unfastened. (Acts 16:25-26)

Love and Light, Martin


A VIEW FROM A PEW By Don De Vries

In Luke’s Gospel, we are led into the story of Jesus’ birth through events that preceded the birth of John, The Baptist. John, who was to be the forerunner of Jesus, was the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, and his birth, like that of Jesus’, was heavily influenced

by the hand of God. Zechariah was a priest serving in the temple, and had a vision which had told him of the coming birth of Jesus, and that Jesus would, indeed, be the Messiah. In a magnificent prayer, which is found in Luke 1: 68-79, Zechariah foretells the nature of God’s gift to mankind which is received as Jesus is born, and concludes “By the tender mercies of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” We know Jesus’ birth did follow shortly after this, but wouldn’t you like to have a one-in-one conversation with Zechariah, and ask him what he meant when he declared that “our feet would be guided into the way of peace?” I guess he didn’t foresee Syria or Afghanistan or Libya in the 21st century, or he might have prayed for our feet to be guided into the lack of war and conflict. Surely these places and their circumstances today do not reflect the way of peace. No, they do not. The problem in these places is not with God’s desire to guide our feet in the way of peace, but with the desire of human beings to be in charge, and to impose their ideas on others with little regard for God’s direction. Until God’s peace rules in the hearts of all mankind, it will be difficult to find freedom from conflict on earth. Jesus told us that His peace passes understanding, that the peace of Christ in a person’s heart makes it possible to manage life in the face of indifference or hostility to God’s word, and to the peace He gives us. However we define peace in this world, it won’t happen until the peace God gives is firmly planted in every heart. Then we can sincerely pray for it, and expect it to happen to the entire world as God, in His mercy, has made possible. Why do people make it so tough on themselves to find peace? God has given it to us when we have faith in Jesus Christ. The act of believing takes almost no physical effort. It is, after all, a matter of our spirits, and it is in our spirits that we have to ask Jesus to dwell this Christmas, so our feet can be guided in the way of peace. As Zechariah put it so eloquently. the light has dawned on us who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death and is there to guide our feet in the way of God’s peace. . As we share again this Christmas the age-old words that describe the events that happened as Jesus was born into this world, and reaffirm that He is the source of our salvation and our hope for eternal life in God’s presence, let us pray, as Zechariah did, that Christ has been born in our hearts. Have a Merry Christmas, and live a New Year in God’s loving care. Photo by Bobby Mikul: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net/view-image.php?image=8164&picture=colorful-sunrise

http://www.publicdomainpictures.net/view-image.php?image=8164&picture=colorful-sunrise


A Note from the

Gilead Music Department December, 2012

November was an interesting month here at Gilead. With Hurricane Sandy’s arrival followed by a snow storm the following week on Wednesday our rehearsal schedules have gone out the window. Thank you, Choirs, for being flexible and cooperative with what we’re singing and playing. The Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service at St. Andrews in Brewster was well received. The Senior

Choir and the Junior Bell/Orff Instruments played and sang. It’s always a great way to start off the Thanksgiving holiday with a grateful heart and a sense of the Community around us. Here’s what’s going on at Gilead:

December 1 The children’s choirs from Gilead will be singing @ 3:30 pm for the Carmel

Tree Lighting (Plan on arriving about 3:20 to set up)

December 2, Sunday (lighting of the 1st Advent candle) “Light 1 Candle”

o Communion Sunday o 8:45 am Senior Choir rehearsal “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” o 9:15 am Junior Bell Chimes rehearsal (to play in Worship) ”O Come O Come

Emmanuel” o During Church School—Praise Makers rehearse

December 5, Wednesday o 3:15 pm Junior Bells/Orff Instruments o 6:30 pm Senior Bell Chimes o 7:45 pm Senior Choir

December 9, Sunday (2nd Advent candle) singing

“Light 2 Candles” o 8:45 am Senior Bell Chimes rehearsal “One Small

Child” o 9:15 am Senior Choir rehearsal “Comfort Ye, Comfort Ye” o Gilead Trio with Renae Lent, Joan Francis, Mariah Warren: “Cantus” o During Church School—Praise Makers rehearse

December 12, Wednesday,

o 3:15 pm Junior Bells/Orff Instruments o 6:30 pm Senior Bell Chimes (set up for Sunday) o 7:45 pm Senior Choir

December15, Saturday, “Journey to the Manger” (Live Nativity at Tilly Foster Farm)

Needed: “Heavenly Host” singers----- see Mary


December 16, Sunday, 3rd Advent Candle (Orff Instruments)

o 9:00 am Senior Choir o 9:15 am Soloist

December 19, Wednesday

o 3:15 pm Junior Bells/Orff Instruments o 6:30 pm Senior Bell Chimes o 7:45 pm Senior Choir

December 23, Sunday, Church School Pageant (4th Advent Candle)

o 9:00 am—Instrumentalist warm -up o 9:15 am Junior Bells o 9:15 am Praise Makers o 9:30 am All children in costumes for Pageant o 3:00 pm Meet in the parking lot to go Carol singing to the Home Bound

(Followed by pizza, hot chocolate and cookies at Mary’s house)

December 24, Monday, 1st Service 5:00 pm (5th “Christ “Candle” Praise

Makers singing) o 4:15 pm Junior Bell Chimes/Orff Instruments o 4:30 pm Praise Makers

December 24, Monday, 2nd Service 10:00 pm o 8:45 pm Senior Bell Chimes o 9:00 pm Senior Choir

December 30, Sunday, Favorite Carols during Sunday Worship

Have a wonderful Christmas, with love & music in your heart! Mary Temple


Gilead Youth Group News

December 2012 Special thanks to everyone who supported our Bake Sale, proceeds were used to purchase groceries for Thanksgiving weekend for a very large family selected by Marge. I personally delivered them to the family and can assure you they were very appreciative of our generosity. In addition to the fun & excitement of decorating, baking, attending festive events, shopping and receiving gifts, find time as a family to do a few special things that reveal the Love and Spirit of Christ that is in all of us. As a family celebrate Christmas by keeping the birth of Jesus Christ in your thoughts, deeds and focus this month. I offer some examples for you and your children:

Give a gift to God that is a personal promise or devotion, Read the Christmas story together as a family, Set up a Nativity in your home, Plan a project of good will,

Go caroling with Mary Temple, Give a surprise gift of service to someone and attend Christmas Worship together as a family. Most importantly catch the spirit.

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year”. May God fill your home with his peace and joy this Christmas. Merry Christmas and warm wishes for a New Year filled with love, health and many blessings for your family. Fran

Calendar of Activities

Saturday, December 1 - Singing at Cornerstone Park at 3:30 pm. o Dinner and Greening of the Church following at Gilead

Friday, December 7 - Ice Skating o 5th grade-older o Leave Gilead 7:00 pm o $5.00 per person - Friends welcome o RSVP Fran 628-7413

Saturday, December 15 – Journey to the Manger at Tilly Foster Farm o Volunteers Needed

Sunday, December 16 - Grinch NYC Trip Saturday December 22 - Ugly Sweater get-together

o Youth 5th grade-up" o DETAILS To FOLLOW.


What is Advent?

When is Advent celebrated? | History of Advent

Prior to the Nativity Celebration of Christmas Day, Advent refers to the holy season of the Christian church which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It begins on the Fourth Sunday before Christmas and ends on the 25th of December. As the commencement of the Christian year, the Advent Season holds a special place in the Christian tradition. The History of Advent The word "advent" comes from the Latin term for "coming," and refers to the first and second Comings of Jesus Christ, in the senses of Savior and Judge, respectively. The first authoritative mention of Advent appears in the Synod of Lerida (AD 524), and the season has been recognized since as the beginning of the western ecclesiastical (church) year. The celebration originally began as a period of fasting, similar to Lent. Although the practice of abstention was later relaxed, Advent retains the spirit of atonement and penitence. Advent Wreaths and Calendars In western cultures, the four Sundays of Advent are often celebrated with Advent wreaths decorated with four candles. Made from evergreens, the circular wreaths symbolize eternal life and the endless nature of God's love. Three of the candles are purple or blue while the fourth is typically rose-colored or pink. One candle is lit each Sunday of the season. The rose-colored candle is lit on the third Sunday, which is considered to be a more festive day than the others. On Christmas Day, a fifth candle (known as the "Christ Candle" and often white in color) is lit in the center of the wreath, or may replace it altogether. Advent calendars are also popular during the season. About 25 small compartments are created, often through the use of multiple sheets of cardboard or through sewn pockets. These are filled with seasonal messages, religious pictures, small chocolates, stories, or toys, depending upon the particular calendar. Advent Traditions and Customs around the World There are many ways Advent is celebrated. In English history, poor women would carry "Advent images" -- two dolls dressed as Christ and the Virgin Mary. Upon showing these images to passersby, the women would be gifted with small amounts of money or trinkets. Failing to donate was considered bad luck. In Normandy, children under 12 were sent through farmers' fields with torches, setting fire to straw to drive off vermin. Italy supported the tradition of bagpipe players entering into Rome during the last days of the season. They played music before shrines of the Blessed Virgin, just as shepherds played pipes at the manger to honor the Messiah's coming. The Season of Advent remains one of the most important times of the Christian year. It celebrates the blessing of the birth of Christ, and reminds the faithful of his eventual return.

Written by: Bob Robertson - http://www.sharefaith.com/guide/Christian-Holidays/advent_season.html

http://www.sharefaith.com/image/five-lit-advent-candles-on-wreath.html

http://www.sharefaith.com/guide/Christian-Holidays/whats-the-true-meaning-of-christmas.html

http://www.sharefaith.com/guide/Christian-Holidays/season_of_lent.html

http://www.sharefaith.com/author/bob-robertson.html

http://www.sharefaith.com/guide/Christian-Holidays/advent_season.html


Super Storm Sandy

Super Storm Sandy hit Putnam County hard. While we did not suffer anywhere near the damage others in the New York City area did. The storm took its toll, including taking

down a large tree next to the manse. Fortunately, the manse sustained only minor damage and Martin had garaged his new car (thanks, Rebekah!). Unfortunately, the

little house on the playground did not fare so well. All photos on these pages were taken by Holly Toal of the Putnam County Time/Press and are copyrighted by the Putnam County Times/Press. I’d like to give special thanks to Don Hall, publisher, for giving us permission to reprint the pictures and for providing us with additional unpublished photos.

http://putnampresstimes.com/index.html


OUTREACH AND MISSION Operation Christmas Child

Thanks to everyone who prepared shoe boxes with Christmas gifts for Operation Christmas Child. These boxes will be distributed to children throughout the world who would otherwise have a very bleak Christmas morning. It was wonderful to see the

Communion Table covered with these important gifts, part of our mission to the world.

Gilead Food Pantry The Gilead Food Pantry is open Friday mornings from 10:00 am until noon to offer food to those who are in need. Donations of food or funds are always welcome. Food items can be placed in the basket in the lounge while funds are best given directly to Marj Williams or placed in the offering basket with the notation “Food Pantry” on the envelope or memo line of your check.

The Salvation Army has begun supporting our food pantry by offering free breakfast to food pantry clients on Friday mornings from 10:00 am until 11:30 am. We greatly appreciate their ministry! For more information on this important ministry, please see Marj Williams.

While the goods received during the Kid’s Kitchen Collections have been a great help to the food pantry, please remember that other things continue to be needed, so please continue to bring other items on non-communion Sundays. Thanks!

Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity is part of our church mission. There are volunteer opportunities on house sites or off site work. Steve Biolsi is the Project Manager for Habitat for Humanity of Putnam County. He can be reached at 914-774-9314. You can get more information on the web at www.habitatputnam.org and you can find them on Facebook.

http://www.habitatputnam.org/

http://www.habitatputnam.org/


Hudson River Presbytery Response to Sandy Storm Victims Dear Hudson River Saints:

At the suggestion of a Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Team who has arrived to work with the Stony Point Center, we are establishing a special HRP Fund for Storm Victims. As you may know, the Stony Point Center has been housing over 100 storm victims since Sandy first hit the area - most of them young Hispanic families who were displaced when their trailers in the town of Stony Point were destroyed. The Center is feeding and housing them, and the guests are helping with cleaning and cooking. They are most grateful for their home away from home. However, the prospects for long term housing are still unclear, and there is much trauma in their lives. The financial costs to Stony Point Center are obviously rising. And the families have increasing needs (gas, diapers, supplies). Since their homes are mostly destroyed, the needs will only grow. So, we want to encourage you to invite your congregations to consider giving to this HRP Fund for Storm Victims. The money will only be used for victims of the storm, and any money left over after this crisis has passed, will be given to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. (We have also requested $10,000 from PDA in Louisville- the maximum amount any presbytery can receive after a disaster. As many of you know PDA is one of the main recipients of the One Great Hour of Sharing monies). Rick Ufford-Chase, Co-Director of the Stony Point Center, and myself will disburse the money, based on identifiable need and accountable recipients. Checks should be made out to Hudson River Presbytery and sent to 655 Scarborough Road, Scarborough, New York 10510. Thank you for your generosity. If you have any questions, please send them to [email protected]. Blessings to all - Susan Andrews

General Presbyter

PS. Please do not bring food or clothes to Stony Point Center. The staff and volunteers are providing what is

needed.

mailto:[email protected]


Groundswells by Rob LoAlbo

Session met on Tuesday, November 13th at 7:30 PM. The meeting began with a reading from Philippians 4.4-9:

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

After a prayer, Session then reported on and discussed the following:

In October, there were 22 pastoral care visits and 26 pastoral care phone conversations, and one Presbytery functions.

Gilead served communion on November 4th.

A baptism for Nathan Thomas, son of Erin and Joel Thomas, was performed on November 18th.

The church directory is in the process of being distributed.

The financial report was presented, which included an increased deficit over last month by over 25%. Session continues to rely on the faith of the congregation.

Session is still examining possibilities regarding the inclusion of electronic donations, with a mind towards cost effectiveness.

A grant in the amount of $2013 was received from Presbytery for community outreach.

As a result of Hurricane Sandy, a tree fell on the manse, with damage and removal costs coming to $1850.

Session is hoping that the insurance will cover the costs.

Because of the membership costs to presbytery incurred by the church for each member, a discussion occurred regarding the removal of inactive members from the roster, in an effort to save money.

Thanks for following our activities. Please continue to pray for us. We continue to seek guidance, instruction, assurance, unity and focus, as expressed and modeled by our members. If you have any questions, feel free to approach a Session member for further discussion.

Groundswells: “a broad, deep, swell or rolling of the sea, due to a distant storm or gale or any surge of support, approval, or enthusiasm, especially among the general public.” It’s also a monthly column where Shingle readers read about Session’s activities.

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A Moment for Stewardship “And when you ask them ‘How much should we give?’ they only answer ‘More! More! More!’” (“Fortunate Son”, Creedence Clearwater Revival, 1969) I know this is what it feels like for church members sometimes. To be honest, it’s how it felt for me from my spot in the back pew for many years. It seems like one Stewardship season has barely ended when another one is starting up. We are deluged with emails, letters, cards in the pews, and multiple sermons and speeches, all asking for “more”. The worst of it is that now all this comes at a time when most of us actually have LESS than we did before. Money is increasing hard to come by, and food, gas, vacations, college tuitions are certainly not going down any. So the church is left to pile on and ask you to dig just a little deeper than you did last year. The church doesn’t really have many tools for raising money. We can’t tax people, we can’t sic the IRS or debt collectors on anyone, and we can’t screw up anyone’s credit score. To be honest, all we have at our disposal is guilt and coercion, and we try very hard every year to get that mixture just right. But still, the speeches must be made, the letters sent, the articles written. All of you are well aware of the church’s financial situation. You don’t need to read another article outlining that for you. You are also aware of your own personal financial situation, and of how much you can do to help the church survive. We trust that everyone will do as much as they can, and look forward to a healthy and prosperous 2013 for the whole Gilead family. Thank you for your time and God Bless Gilead Dave Moody Stewardship Committee Chairman

Gilead Events – Promotion Guidelines Whenever an event is occurring within our church, it is important to get the word out as much as possible, both before and after the event. We would like to share what it is we do in our church with the community. The Communications committee has prepared comprehensive Guidelines listing steps to take before, during, and after a Gilead event. The Guidelines are being sent along with this issue of The Shingle and will be available at the church. They are also available online at http://www.gileadchurch.org/publicity.html.

http://www.gileadchurch.org/publicity.html


Financial Report

As of 9/30/12:

Regular Income Year to Date 125,607

Expenses Year to Date 127,608

Surplus (Deficit) (2,001)

Renovation Loan Balance

$42,252

Needed: Church School

Teachers

for 2012 - 2013

Positions are available in all grades.

Curriculum is provided.

Please share your faith with our youth.

Please sign up in church lounge

or contact Diana Drake Behan

845-225-1979 or [email protected]

Please remember to support the Deacons’ Fund, either by using the special quarterly envelopes or by designating “Deacons’ Fund” on a check.


GILEAD GROUPS Journey to the Manger Come one, come all, to the Manger! On Tuesday, October 30, at 7:00 p.m., we will gather at Gilead to read through the script of our live nativity tour, Journey to the Manger, which will be presented at Tilly Foster Farm from 5:00 to 8:00 pm on December 15. If you are interested in joining our cast, or helping out in any way, with sets, costumes, PR, hospitality, parking attendance, or music, please join us. No experience necessary, just a heart for the Christmas Gospel, which we would like to give as an offering to the Putnam County area this December 15. We will have a great deal of fun preparing our theatrical gift, and we pray that it will bring us and our community closer to Christ. Come on the 30th to help us assign parts! Are you an angel or a Wise Man (or woman)? Please forward this information to any and all of your friends and family. If you would like more information, or you’re unable to make the meeting on October 30 but would like to participate, please call Martin at 845-531-2690 or email [email protected].

Faith Discussion Group INVITATION TO JOIN THE FAITH DISCUSSION GROUP

Since the beginning of September, the group has considered the prophecies of Isaiah, Paul’s letters to Timothy, and Titus. 1st and 2nd Thessalonians will be the basis for our conversations as we begin the new year. There is a real difference between the Old and New Testament scriptures, and why not? Paul writes after Jesus’ resurrection, while Isaiah is God’s messenger delivering the promise of a Messiah who is still way in the future, and not yet a matter of fact. The group meets to discuss these things each Thursday from 7:30 – 8:30 PM in the lounge, and all are welcome. The annual year-end break to allow folks to participate fully in Gilead’s holiday observance is scheduled, with the final 2012 meeting on November 15, resuming on January 3, 2013. Make a New Year’s resolution to be a participant on any Thursday evening you can. It will encourage you as you work to build your faith. See Don De Vries if you have questions about the group.



Gilead Designer

Gilead Designers will be meeting in December on a date to be announced. The group meets at Gilead at 6:00 pm. Anyone interested in creating craft projects is invited. Please see Mary Temple or Ellen Nielsen for more information.

Gilead Gourmets The Gilead Gourmets would like to hear from you! They are beginning to plan for 2013 and would like to know what kinds of events you would like to attend. The organization has become a social fellowship for adults, and is not planning all-church, family oriented events. If you are interested in joining in these dining activities, please complete the form on the next page, or submit on online form at http://www.emailmeform.com/builder/form/eD9t57FmUwq6o9APGrv6 If you have any questions you can see Bill or MaryJo Brett after church or

call them at 203-270-1053, or email them at [email protected].

Stretch Exercise Classes

Stretch Exercise Classes are being given every Monday and Thursday at 11:00 am at Gilead. Annina and her friend Brigitta have organized this ongoing class. There is a charge of $1.00 per class which is being donated to Gilead every month. Those with physical problems would especially benefit by these classes. Everyone is welcome. If further information is needed, please contact Annina at 845-225-7012.

If you would like to be kept up to date on the year’s schedule and any updates, please join the Spirit Walkers Ecumenical Hiking Group page on Facebook. All hikers must have a signed waiver on file with the church prior to hiking with us, and, if age 18 or under, a signed permission slip.

We look forward to seeing you as we explore the beauty of God’s creation!

http://www.emailmeform.com/builder/form/eD9t57FmUwq6o9APGrv6


http://www.facebook.com/groups/104136439689832/


. Gilead Gourmet’s Survey

The Gilead Gourmets has become a group of adult social gatherings. Please assist us in planning future activities by completing the survey below and returning it to the Brett’s in person after church service or by e-mailing to [email protected]. You may also call in your responses to 203-270-1053. Please check the following areas of interest: ____ Lunch following the Church Service at Valentino’s ____ Southeast Grill House ____ Aversano’s ____ Other ____ ____ Dinner - Saturday ____ Sunday ____ Valentino’s ____ Southeast Grill House ____ Aversano’s ____ Other ____ ____ Small gatherings of 6-8 people at a Host House. The host prepares the entrée and guests may bring appetizers, salad and Dessert. Would you be willing to volunteer your home as a host? ____ ____ Dinners at select venues for special times of the year. Valentine Day ____ St Patrick Day ____ Spring/Easter ____ Barbecue/ Summer Fall ____ Other ____ Other restaurants you would be interested in:_____________________ Name:_____________________________ Tel# ___________ Thank you for taking the time to complete the survey and assisting us in furthering fellowship within Gilead Presbyterian Church. Sincerely, Mary Jo Brett



Gilead Prayer Chain The prayer chain organized by the Deacons is an avenue of support for congregation members who are experiencing joy, pain or dealing with unexpected situations. Currently there are 19 members who have volunteered to be on the prayer chain and are emailed/called about prayer request as they

come in. The Prayer chain is a fast way to gain a community of support when you need it! If you have any joys/concerns you would like us to hear about, Prayers can be emailed to:

Prayer Chain Coordinator: Lindsay D’Ascoli : [email protected]

If you would like to volunteer to be added to our prayer chain email list Email [email protected] or contact (845)225-0221

Prayer Chain for Pets Yes! Thank you, thank you for your great response/interest: there will now be a pet*/pet owners prayer chain for those pets and/or pet owners who have health/behavioral concerns for their treasured friends. We are looking for anyone who would care to join us in a prayer chain for anyone needing prayers for their pets. The following have agreed to act as contacts for the group:

Joyce Scott Carmel 845-225-7293

Mary Lou Cassidy Carmel 845-225-7268

Shirley DeVries Brewster 845-279-8688

Sue Surovic Carmel 845-225-2988

Alicia Briley Carmel 845-228-4672

Please feel free to call any one of us for prayerful support during difficult times..

Young Adults of Gilead

Calling all Young Adults of Gilead - there is now a Facebook group just for you "Gilead Presbyterian Young Adults".

What age group are the Young Adults of Gilead? People post confirmation through college graduation. The group is brand new. It was created 4/24/12 and comments are appreciated. it is a place where you can find support and help when you need it or provide support and help when someone needs it. it is a way to stay connected to Gilead or reconnect with Gilead. Links to the Gilead website and PCUSA are there and events will be added they become known. Look for scripture and postings by Micah Rose Emerson, a former youth director of Gilead. Use the group as a way to keep God by your side as you find your way in the world. Come and have a look!





GILEAD NEWS

The Church School Christmas Pageant will be held during morning worship on

December 23rd

!

Christmas Eve Services

Family Service at 5:00 pm

Candlelight Service at 10:00 pm

Sunday Evening Devotional

“Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. 14 Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective.” (James 5:13-16)

We have a new informal worship opportunity at Gilead. Called our Sunday Evening Devotional, on the last Sunday of each month at 7:30 p.m., we are gathering in the lounge for a time of prayer, Scripture, discernment and fellowship. Bring your joys and concerns, faith and love.

Baptisms

Benjamin Howard Warren, son of John and Mariah Warren on October 21.

Nathan Alexander Thomas, son of Joel and Erin Thomas

on November 18.

Gianna Grace D’Ascoli and Vincent Gabriel D’Ascoli, children of Rob D’Ascoli and Lindsay Sutton-D’Ascoli om November 25.


Gilead Christmas Bazaar

Thanks to all everyone who helped make this year’s bazaar

a huge success. It raised $1,875 for Gilead!

Photos by Gina Davis


Women's Retreat

Due to Super Storm Sandy, the Women's Retreat at Holmes Presbyterian Camp & Conference Center was postponed. It will now be held Fri., Dec. 7th til Sun., Dec. 9th. Now's your chance to take advantage of an early Christmas present to yourself- a time of peace amidst the hustle and bustle of the season. This year's theme is: "Let Me Count the Ways: Seeing God in Everything." Come and join women of the Hudson River, New York and Long Island Presbyteries in a weekend of faith, fellowship and fun. For the retreat brochure and registration form, visit the Holmes website at www.holmescamp.org, or check the church lounge. Hope to see you there!

Sermon Podcasts: www.gileadchurch.org/multimedia.html or gilead.sermonpodcasts.com/. They are

also available through iTunes software. YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/GileadChurch#p/u Facebook: Public Page:

o http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gilead-Presbyterian-Church/139888512714485 Facebook Closed Group:

o http://www.facebook.com/groups/164333380282707/

When you click on the Gilead Facebook page, please make sure you click on the “Like” button – it’s another way to keep up with events at Gilead.

Our Daily Bread

Please note that the current issue of our Daily Bread is now available in the lounge. Pick one up for some daily inspiration.

News from the Town of Carmel

Effective January 1, the Town of Carmel is instituting town-wide garbage pick-up. Two contractors, AAA Carting and R&S Waste will be the only carters licensed for residential collection. For more information please refer http://www.carmelny.org/press_release_11-28-12.pdf .

http://www.holmescamp.org/

http://www.gileadchurch.org/multimedia.html

http://gilead.sermonpodcasts.com/

http://www.youtube.com/user/GileadChurch#p/u

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gilead-Presbyterian-Church/139888512714485


http://www.carmelny.org/press_release_11-28-12.pdf


The CNS Pre-K Program is Gilead's nonsectarian school for 2 1/2 to 5 year olds. Since it was founded in 1949, the Pre-School has been a respected community resource for early childhood education. Our staff consists of three teachers and an aide with many years of experience at CNS between them. All are active members of the community and volunteers in the school district.

The school offers two, three and five day programs. They follow the same calendar as the Carmel Central School district.

In preparing a child for Kindergarten, their philosophy is teaching the whole child to grow. They provide a daily routine balanced between academic skills and lessons, crafts, free and structured play time, music, story time, computer time, snack, and outdoor activities on the large playground. The curriculum was developed in conjunction with the area kindergarten teachers to best prepare the child for kindergarten and instill an enthusiasm for learning in a fun loving environment. Utilizing the team teaching method, three teachers give a student to teacher ratio of approximately 8 to 1. For children scheduled to enter public school in September of the year, we routinely prepare a detailed evaluation of Kindergarten readiness. For more information, please call the school at 845-225-8044.

Used with permission. Copyright Gospel Communications International, Inc.

www.reverendfun.com

Used with permission. ©Communication Resources, Inc.

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FUNDRAISING OPPORTUNITIES

Tastefully Simple So far you helped raise over $100 for Gilead, simply by ordering The Food That You Love!

The Tastefully Simple Fundraiser will continue each month with a featured special. A link has been posted on the website, so you can order anytime.

If you would rather place your order with me or have any questions, please call me!

Cynthia Davern Tastefully Simple Senior Consultant

"the food you love, the time you deserve" 845-225-3878

[email protected]

There is an easy way to help Gilead’s finances if you shop at Amazon.com. Gilead receives a commission from Amazon if you enter their site through Gilead’s web page. Just go to www.gileadchurch.org and click on Gilead Staff Recommendations on the left side menu – the bottom choice just above the church’s name.

You can also reach that page directly at www.gileadchurch.org/marketplace4.html . You can bookmark the page for easier access!

From that page you can view books, music, and other items recommended by Gilead staff members, or search Amazon directly.


http://www.gileadchurch.org/

http://www.gileadchurch.org/marketplace4.html


WORSHIP AND MINISTRY Pastor McGeachy generally follows the lectionary each week, but there are occasional exceptions. We are making these available for those who may wish to read the likely scripture readings in advance of Sunday worship. The daily lectionary and the Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study are available on our website: www.gileadchurch.org.

Lectionary for Sundays and Festivals Scripture Reference December, 2012

1st Sunday of Advent—December 2 Jeremiah 33:14–16 Psalm 25:1–10 1 Thess. 3:9–13 Luke 21:25–36

Christmas Eve—December 24 Isaiah 9:2-7 Psalm 96:1-13 Titus 2:11-14 Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)

2nd Sunday of Advent—December 9 Malachi 3:1–4 Luke 1:68–79 Philippians1:3–11 Luke 3:1–6

Nativity of the Lord/Christmas—December 25 Christmas Dawn Isaiah 62:6-12 Psalm 97:1-12 Titus 3:4-7 Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20 Christmas Day Isaiah 52:7-10 Psalm 98:1-9 Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12) John 1:1-14

3rd Sunday of Advent—December 16 Zeph. 3:14–20 Isaiah 12:2–6 Philippians 4:4–7 Luke 3:7–18

1st Sunday after Christmas—December 30 1 Samuel 2:18–20, 26 Psalm 148 Colossians 3:12–17 Luke 2:41–52

4th Sunday of Advent—December 23 Micah 5:2–5a Luke 1:46–55 or Psalm 80:1–7 Hebrews 10:5–10 Luke 1:39–45 (46–55)



December 2 Antoinette O’Conner

Terry Vanderhoff Renae Lent Rob Loalbo Roy Delanoy Communion Cleanup: Renae Lent

December 9 Mariah Warren

Dick Van Vlack Carolyn Lewis

December 16 Warren Behan Phil Engler Ken Kern

December 23 Annina Celli

Chris Newe Joanne Paulson

December 24

December 24

December 30 Brenda Verdesi Diane Devlin


Birthdays

12/1 Ryan Moody 12/26 Jeff Davis

12/2 Wendy Tompkins 12/27 Victoria DuBon

12/3 Stan Haywood 12/27 Diane Krebs

12/3 Jose Ojeda 12/28 Sabrina Diaz

12/4 Alexandra Casabona 12/29 Brandon Lewin

12/7 William DiPippo 12/31 Philip Engler

12/9 David Nielsen

12/11 Rebecca Baxter-Foard

12/11 Alexander Vandenberg

12/12 Denise Figueroa

12/15 Annina Celli

12/16 Ian Bennet, Sr. Anniversaries 12/16 Eric Mueller 12/23 Judith & Tony Stavrides

12/17 David Cosmo

12/17 Erik Vandenberg

12/20 Stephanie Gould

12/23 Margaret Karell

12/24 Micah Emerson

Please accept our apologies if we have missed you during the year. If you wish to share these events, please either send an email to [email protected] or leave a write it on a slip of paper and leave it in The Shingle mail slot in the office.

For more information about Gilead Church, please visit our web site: www.gileadchurch.org

Please remember that the deadline for submissions is the 20th of each month. Submissions preferably can be emailed to Martin McGeachy at the church office: [email protected] with a copy to Warren Behan at [email protected], or you may drop off a hard copy at the Office.

Gilead Presbyterian Church 9 Church St.

Carmel, NY 10512 845-225-4586

Email: [email protected]

Martin McGeachy Pastor

Fran Croughan Youth Director

Mary Temple Music Director

Acknowledgements: Some Images © FaithClipart.com or ©Communication Resources, Inc. www.churchart.com






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DECEMBER 2012Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

2510:00 AM Morning Worship andChurch School11:00 AM Youth Serve at CoffeeHour7:30 PM Sunday EveningDevotional

2611:00 AM StretchExercise Class7:00 PM AA Meeting

27 286:30 PM Senior BellsRehearsal7:00 PM AA Meeting7:45 PM Senior ChoirRehearsal

2911:00 AM StretchExercise Class7:30 PM FaithDiscussion Group

30 1

10:00 AM PRPH3:30 PM Carmel TreeLighting and Carolingat Cornerstone Park4:30 PM Greening ofthe Church

2

Advent



611:00 AM StretchExercise Class7:30 PM FaithDiscussion Group

7

7:00 PM Youth IceSkating - 5th Gradeand Up

810:00 AM PRPH

910:00 AM Morning Worship andChurch School


117:30 PM SessionMeeting

126:30 PM Senior BellsRehearsal7:00 PM AA Meeting7:45 PM Senior ChoirRehearsal

1311:00 AM StretchExercise Class

14 15

10:00 AM PRPH5:00 PM Journey tothe Manger

16

NYC Trip to "The Grinch"10:00 AM Morning Worship andChurch School




21First Day of Winter

22Youth "Ugly Sweater"Get Together10:00 AM PRPH

23

10:00 AM Morning Worship andChurch School Pageant3:00 PM Christmas Caroling

24

11:00 AM StretchExercise Class5:00 PM FamilyChristmas EveService7:00 PM AA Meeting10:00 PM CandlelightChristmas EveService

25

Christmas Day

266:30 PM Senior BellsRehearsal7:00 PM AA Meeting7:45 PM Senior ChoirRehearsal


28 2910:00 AM PRPH

3010:00 AM Morning Worship andChurch School7:30 PM Sunday EveningDevotional



3 4 510:00 AM PRPH

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