tidings - niantic cmnty church€¦ · youth ministry our wanakee mission trip of 20 youth and 11...

May 2016 TIDINGS Page

From the Pastor and Teacher

Dear Friends,

Over the past month, during worship, I have reminded you and me both that Easter is more a season than a day. It’s actually a challenging concept. So much of our awareness of the world around us is shaped by the news cycle — which used to be about 24 hours, but grows steadily shorter.

Easter-as-a-season means that it takes longer than a day to notice what Easter does, and what Easter means.

We have two more weeks of this rich season, in the month of May. Here’s a lovely reflection that may help you find a deeper, more ample sense of Easter (before we enter the startling time of Pentecost!):

Easter in Our Eyes

Lord, we exalt in the early morning birdsong which wakes us to green beginnings And multi-colored hopes and pulls us to our feet to stand on tiptoe. Surprise us with joy in the morning Struggle with us in heat of noonday Sit with us in the evening shadows of quietness and confidence. For you meet us at every corner and bring new life out of all our dying and create us new and afresh a springtime people With Easter in our eyes.

Continued on Page 2

Niantic Community Church 170 Pennsylvania Avenue

Niantic, CT 06357 Phone: (860) 739-6208

[email protected] www.NianticCommunityChurch.org

Pastor & Teacher:

The Rev. Dr. John A. Nelson

Community Minister: Patty Chaffee

Interim Christian Education/ Youth Ministers:

Pam McCauley, Amy Agles

Music Minister: Richard Schenk

Choral Minister/ Bell Choir Director:

Lynne Floyd

Children’s & Gospel Choirs Ministers:

Lee Wilkerson, Nikki Rollins

Church Secretary: Judy Snitkin

Parish Nurses: Marie LaTourette, Donna Hathaway,

Edie Watrous

Children’s Center Director: Kathy Tiller

Worship Schedule: Sundays at

9:00 am & 11:15 am

A Federated Church of the United Church of Christ and the United Methodist Church

An Open, Affirming, Reconciling Congregation

Editor: Heather Larson

[email protected]

Tidings

Monthly news for members & friends from Niantic Community Church May 2016

Inside This Issue:

Pastor’s Message……….. 1-2

Christian Education…….. 3

Youth Ministry…………. 4

Notices………………..… 5

Nurturing Faith………..... 6-10

Time/Talent Survey…...... 11 Some of the NCC members who Walked to End

Homelessness in New London, see Page 4.

mailto:[email protected]://www.NianticCommunityChurch.orgmailto:[email protected]

May 2016 TIDINGS Page 2

Continued from Page 1

Let us feel you in our pulses and in our breathing and convince us in our very bodies that we may live and die in the hollow of your hand.

Release now those mute longings hidden in our hearts to join the early morning birdsong singing green beginnings and multi-colored hopes.

For you are shaking us and shaping us into a springtime people with Easter in our Eyes.

Robert Raines

God’s richest blessings to you,

Pastor John A. Nelson

Get Ready for Worship!

Follow the “Preparing for Sunday” link on our website (NianticCommunityChurch.org). You will find the scripture readings for the current week, a brief description to set them in context, a reflection on the passages, and a prayer starter. It’s a great way to spend time with God’s Word — and since those passages are (often) the basis for services on Sunday morning, you’ll be adding a new layer of richness and meaning to the experience of worship.

Sunday Worship at 9:00 & 11:15am

May 1st: Sixth Sunday of Easter

Texts: Acts 16:9-15; Psalm 67; Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5; John 14:23-29 (or John 5:1-9)

Pastor John A. Nelson, preaching: “Tell It Again”

May 8th: Seventh Sunday of Easter

Texts: Acts 16:16-34; Psalm 97; Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21; John 17:20-26

Pastor John A. Nelson, preaching: “Auguries of Heaven”

May 15th: Day of Pentecost

Texts: Acts 2:1-21 or Genesis 11:1-9; Psalm 104:24-34, 35b; Romans 8:14-17 or Acts 2:1-21; John 14:8-17, (25-27)

Pastor John A. Nelson, preaching: “Made for Prophecy”

May 22nd: Trinity Sunday Confirmation Service (11:15am)

Texts: Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31; Psalm 8; Romans 5:1-5; John 16:12-15

Pastor John A. Nelson, preaching: “Deep Wisdom” (9am)

Worship in May

M ms

by Carol Vara

What is a Mom? Love, kindness, energy Attention, devotion, care Wisdom, loyalty, trust Heart and soul Commitment, compassion, Dedication, support and endless involvement God bless all moms!


CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Galileo the gorilla says

Our Christian Education program is bringing the weekly offering back for younger participants at NCC. We invite children to bring an offering that will be collected at the beginning of the "Thoughts for Young Minds" each Sunday.

Niantic Community Church has an immediate, Part- time position available for a warm and friendly childcare provider. Nursery hours are during Worship services on Sunday mornings from 8:30 -12:30. Applicants must be 18 yrs or older and have experience working with young children. CPR certification or training is preferred. The employee would work alongside another adult to comply with our Safe Church policy. Please call the church office at 860-739-6208 or email Pam McCauley, [email protected]

Please join the fun and consider teaching Church School one or more weeks this Summer. We have 12 weeks of our One Room Church School from June 19- Sept 4th . All materials, supplies and curriculum will be provided. The volunteer sign up sheet is posted outside the CE office. If you have questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Pam McCauley [email protected]

To encourage face to face interaction with our church family, please remind youth to leave their phones and other devices at home during church school. We are implementing a “No Phone Zone” during church school and fellowship times. Devices may be collected at the beginning of our time together and returned afterwards.

Children's Sunday will be June 12th when our little brothers and sisters in faith will share their light with everyone. It's sure to be an enlightening service.

We now have a High School group meeting in the Youth Room during the first service on Sundays. Peer led community activities, fellowship, and prayer are part of how we learn God's ways. All High school youth are invited to join us!

If you can sing, play an instrument or can just clap your hands and sing at the same time, the Youth Band is looking for YOU! Whether you are the stage hand type, or like performing with an audience, the Youth Band is looking for YOU! We sing FUN praise songs with the church school children each week and play once a month during the worship service. We have tambourines, drums, keyboards, and guitars. We rehearse during the service on Sundays. Please see Jay Mirecki or Chris Gregor for more information.

- Pam McCauley

Join us for Galactic Blast Vacation Bible School! July11-15th 9:00-12:00

Christian Education Calendar:

Sunday, May 1 - Middle School Youth Return from Wanakee. Back about 4:30 pm. Senior Youth and Troop 240 Shelter Meal Prep 4:00-6:00 pm Senior Youth Serve Meal at NL Homeless Hospitality Center 6:00-7:45 pm Monday, May 2 - CE and OAR combined meeting 6:30 pm. CE meeting 7:00 pm Friday, May 6 - Confirmation Lock-In: Meet at 5:00 pm Friday. The confirmands will share their statements of faith. Dinner and snacks served. Parent pick up at 11:00 pm. This is a change from our original schedule. Sunday, May 8 - Wanakee Mission Moment Junior Youth Fellowship: 10:30-12:00 pm. Wanakee Slide Show and potluck party. All participants and their families. Senior High Stock Sales during Coffee Hour Sunday, May 15 - Senior High Stock Sales during Coffee Hour Junior Youth Fellowship: 10:30-12:00 Friday, May 20 - 6:30 pm Confirmation Dinner and Rehearsal Sunday, May 22 - Confirmation Sunday Senior High Stock Sales during Coffee Hour Junior Youth Fellowship: 10:30-12:00 Sunday, May 29 - One Room Church School Senior High Stock Sales during Coffee Hour No Junior Youth Fellowship Sunday, June 12 - Children’s Sunday

mailto:[email protected]


YOUTH MINISTRY

Our Wanakee Mission Trip of 20 youth and 11 adults would not have been possible without the generous support of the NCC congregation. Thank you all! With the proceeds from the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, our Rock-a-thon, and your spare change (and paper money, too!) for the Quarter Contest, we are able to pay for all of the expenses of our enthusiastic and large group and present a check to Jen Mayo for her farm. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you. We can’t wait to share our adventures with you when we return. “May the Lord watch between me and thee while we are absent one from the other.”

Abigail, Bella, Allie, Ella, Paige, Annice, Chelsey, Katie, Nikki, Marilyn, Arden, Matthew, Jack, Evan C., Evan L., Christopher, Luke, Tucker, Jake, and Bobby.

And Amy, Jennifer, Sue, Laurie, John, Andrew, Dale, Bill, Eric, Stuart, and Mary. Drum roll, please! The winner of the 2016 Wanakee Quarter Contest is the Youth Band. Prepare to be entertained on Sunday, May 15. Thank you all for casting your coins! Stock Market uncertainty tough to handle? Well, we have a foolproof investment opportunity for you. Any one of our 15 stock advisors would be happy to help you on four Sundays in May- May 8, May 15, May 22, and May 29. These dates are the Public Offerings for shares in our Mission Trip this June. Your investment in our Senior High Youth helps ensure their mission work of putting faith in action in Lynn, MA. Stock Ownership signifies your belief in these kids and in this important faith building adventure. Investment advisors: Amelia, Gillian, Chris C., Josh, Cat, Chara, Meghan, Erin, Calvin, Chris G., Des, Ryan, Jake, Evan, and Clarke. - Amy Agles

Junior Youth Fellowship prepares the First Sunday Shelter Meal

Quarter Contest Collection

Walk to End Homeless

The 9th Annual Walk to End Homelessness was held on Sunday, April 24. Organized by the New London Homeless Hospitality Center (HHC) and Connecticut College and sponsored by Lawrence + Memorial Hospital with all proceeds benefiting HHC. The two-mile walk started at 325 Huntington Street and followed easy terrain along Huntington Street to downtown New London. It included three stops with special activities coordinated by Connecticut College students to raise awareness about homelessness.

HHC, founded in 2006, provides hospitality and a bridge to permanent housing for adults experiencing homelessness in New London County. It serves more than 500 individuals annually.

Thank you NCC for your support of the

Walk to End Homelessness last Sunday.

Thirteen people represented Team NCC and

donated approximately $400 to the

Homeless Hospitality Center. Thank you!


Turning Off Your Engine Helps Save Fuel, Lives and the Environment!

Connecticut is committed to reducing air pollution, protecting our health and improving the environment. Plus unattended running vehicles are not safe.

"No Idling" is the law! Learn more at the Dept of Energy & Environmental Protection’s website at http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2684&q=322086&deepNav_GID=1619

Niantic Community Church Children’s Center Kid’s Clubhouse

Summer School Age Program Ages 5 – 12 June 15th – August 21st

6:30 AM – 5:30 PM 2 Field Trips per week Sports, games, crafts, etc. $185 per week if registered by May 30th ($205 per week after May 30th)

170 Pennsylvania Ave, Niantic, CT 06357, (860)739-0877

See our brochure at: nccchildrenscenter.com

NOTICES

Last month I mentioned the burials at

the Old Stone Church Burial Ground.

On the grounds there is a large

memorial stone.

Do you know what it represents?

Hint: it has 93 names on it.

HISTORY QUIZ

Do you have news of an upcoming program or fundraiser? Or perhaps an announcement to share? Let Tidings help spread the word!

Please email your message to [email protected]. Deadline for the next edition is May 15th.

2016 Fundraising Schedule

July 12 Traditional Summer Supper July 26 Traditional Summer Supper August 9 Traditional Summer Supper TBD Lobstah Stew Dinner

Want to join in the fun and

fellowship? There will be lots of ways to help...stayed tuned for more information. No experience necessary.

Save the Dates

http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2684&q=322086&deepNav_GID=1619http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2684&q=322086&deepNav_GID=1619http://www.nccchildrenscenter.com/


NCC PRAYER WALL

Visit the NCC Prayer Wall to review prayers, indicate that you have prayed for the concerns and joys submitted by others, and add your own prayer requests. You may also send prayer requests to [email protected]. All posts are automatically added to the ongoing prayer chain. http://www.nianticcommunitychurch.org/prayers

Contemplative Photography

Discovering God from behind the lens

An interactive program that requires use of a camera,

and time outside of the group session. Each session

will include prayer, reflection and discussion as well

as sharing photos taken over previous weeks. All

levels of ability are welcome to explore this creative

path to the discovery that God is at eye level. A free

nurturing faith program.

Facilitated by Community Minister Patty Chaffee

(860)739-6208

Thursdays 7-9 p.m. (4 Sessions)

May 5 May 26

Nurturing Faith

Our Mosquito season is just around the corner and the Zika virus carried by mosquitos has been in the news quite a bit recently. Zika is a virus that is spread by the Aedes mosquito.

Zika virus outbreaks have been reported in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Caribbean, and Central and South America. At this writing there have been no outbreaks in the United States.

There have been reports of microcephaly (a serious birth defect of the brain) and other problems in babies whose mothers were infected while pregnant. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that pregnant women do not travel to areas where there is a Zika virus outbreak.

Not all people who get the virus get sick. If one does they may experience symptoms such as:

fever, rash, joint pain, headache, and conjunctivitis (pinkeye).

Symptoms are usually mild, and start 2 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. A blood test can tell whether you have the infection. At this time there are no vaccines or medicines to treat it. Drinking lots of fluids, resting, and taking medication such as Tylenol (Acetaminophen) might help.

The CDC recommends one wear long sleeves and pants and to cover exposed skin with mosquito repellant that contains DEET. Apply your sunscreen first then the repellant. Also, while traveling or vacationing, be aware of the areas where mosquito’s caring the virus have been reported.

Have a wonderful summer!

Peace and Health,

Donna Hathaway, RN CPN

PARISH NURSE

Church World Service’s Blanket Sunday is Mother's Day, May 8, 2016. Cards will be available May 1st and 8th for a $5.00 donation, between services. While the gift of a Blanket to be used in emergencies is a wonderful way to honor mothers, it is also a thoughtful gift for baby showers, birthdays or in memory of a loved one. Thank you for your support of this important mission and tradition at NCC.

http://www.nianticcommunitychurch.org/prayers


MEN’S RETREAT

Patty’s Corner Thoughts from your Community Minister

Blue Grass Gospel Project

May 2016

Greetings ! I hope you are enjoying this blessed and

blooming season. Everything seems to be sprouting,

buds on bushes, tulips opening, forsythia flower-

ing… it’s such a colorful time of year after so much

resting time in gray. I noticed a quote I have taped

over my desk, all four corners curling with time.

Sometimes things are in view so much, you stop see-

ing them. Has that ever happened to you? I don’t

know who said it, but I’m glad I found it. It reminds

me to take time to appreciate these simple things that

have been gone from view for the past several months

and how powerful our thoughts are in shaping our

experience of life.

You have a CHOICE Each and every single day

____________________

I choose to feel BLESSED

I choose to feel GRATEFUL

I choose to feel EXCITED

I choose to be THANKFUL

I choose to be HAPPY

Abundant blessings to you,

Patty

The Blue Grass Gospel Project performed an intimate concert on April 2nd at Niantic Community Church. Photos by Craig Woody.


Don’t know how to knit? We’ll teach you ! Don’t have any yarn? We’ll provide it !

Need a pattern? We have em ! Prefer to crochet? That’s okay !

Bring a friend to the Fellowship Room at NCC located at 170 Pennsylvania Ave., Niantic, CT. (860)739-6208.

Save the Date and join us on the 4th Tuesday of each month for the Niantic Community Church

Prayer Shawl Ministry 2016

May 24 June 28

Use your faith to create an active, successful dating process for

casual dating and/or a life mate

Join Us !

Wednesdays, No May Session / June 15 Time: 6-8pm In the Parish Life Ministry office Register in the church office It’s FREE – And all are welcome ! Facilitated by Carol Vara

Niantic Community Church 170 Pennsylvania Ave, Niantic, CT 06357

(860)739-6208

Follow us on Twitter (@NianticChurch) and like us on Facebook (facebook.com/NianticCommunityChurch).

Sacred Source Painting

Join us as we meander through The Artist’s

Way by Julia Cameron, while experiencing the

process of Sacred Source Painting. Awaken

your artist’s soul with this mini-creativity

retreat for every ability. Call to see if it’s right

for you.

May 13th / June 10th

9:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Bring a bag lunch

All art materials provided

$5 materials fee (if you are able)

Call Patty Chaffee (860) 739-6208

Registration is Required

Each month we have:

Music/Prayer/Meditation

Discussion about The Artist’s Way

Painting in total silence for an hour

Sharing the SSP experience

Free Your Creative Spirit !

with Carol Vara

6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays

Embrace this ancient practice of meditation to create a sense of inner peace, solitude and tranquility through guided imagery and music. Dress comfortably. Bring towel or yoga mat, or meditate in a chair. Suitable for all ages & abilities. Join us in the Multipurpose Room for this free Nurturing Faith activity.

(Registration not required.)

May 11th (then returns in Sept)


Anything Goes …minimize, simplify, organize

BOOK CLUB

The Women's Fellowship Book Club has selected "Beautiful Ruins" by Jess Walter as their next book.

The novel is a social satire which explores human nature and satirizing the Hollywood culture that is at the center of the novel. Please join in a fun discussion on June 12th at 7 pm in the Fellowship Room. Any questions, contact Carol Donovan at [email protected].

7:00-8:00 p.m.

June 3 / June 24

A free nurturing faith opportunity, facilitated by Kate Brodaski.

Bring a drum if you have one. All are welcome and

no experience or drum needed.

Call the church office (860) 739-6208 to confirm dates or visit the church calendar at

www.NianticCommunityChurch.org

Join us & bring a friend !!!

Upcoming COFFEE HOUR hosts are: May 1, 8, 15 - Christian Ed May 22, 29, June 5, 12—OAR

Can you help?

Kitchen Keeper needed to maintain the little kitchen off the Fellowship Room.

Do you have a welcoming spirit? Are you interested in working with others on new

member ministry? Contact Patty Chaffee to

explore this meaningful work.

Anything Goes meets the third Monday of each month, Sept-June from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Room. The hot item of last months gathering was a huge package of toilet paper that prompted nearly the whole group to "pick a duck." Josephine Beebe was the lucky winner and pretty excited about it too.

“Pick a Duck” you ask… Well, people clean out and organize their home/life and bring things they no longer want/need to Anything Goes. In turn they present their offerings. Whoever wants it raises their hand and if more than one person wants the item, they pick a duck that are floating around in a pool. Ducks are numbered underneath and the highest number gets the item. When everything has been presented, we clean up our mess and load items to go to charity in someone's car, and gather for lunch and discussion about an article related to simplicity and spirituality, about living with greater intention and mindfulness. Wanna know more about this awesome opportunity for fellowship, and exploring the spirituality of simplicity? Give Patty Chaffee a call or join us May 16th. Bring a bag lunch.


History Quiz Answer

The monument honors the Civil War Veterans from

East Lyme. The town placed it in the burial ground

and it was dedicated on June 14th 1926. There was

a very large crowd in attendance including all the

children from the Niantic School who walked from

school to the grounds.

Trivia: This picture is a

postcard that people could

purchase the day of the

dedication.

The Women's Christian Service Association (WCSA) Rummage Sale on Saturday, April 23, was very successful due to all those who donated, set up, worked, cleaned up, and, of course, purchased.

A large Thank You to everyone who enthusiastically helped to make our Spring Rummage Sale a success. With thanks, WCSA

Joanne Moore was invited to present a proposal for a permanent labyrinth at McCook's Point Park. She was asked by Dave Putnam to present the idea to the Parks and Recreation Commission on 5/12 at 7 p.m. in the town's Community Center. All of her hard work so many days (and nights) rebuilding the labyrinth in the sand has finally paid off in a way we never expected. So many folks use those seaside labyrinths, and now the town is taking notice. If you are inclined to support the proposal, feel free to attend the meeting that is open to the public.

LABYRINTH NEWS

WORLD LABYRINTH DAY

Celebrate the eighth annual World Labyrinth Day on Saturday, May 7, 2016!

The Labyrinth Society invites you to ‘Walk as One at 1:00" in the afternoon, joining others around the globe to create a wave of peaceful energy washing across the time zones.

Check out the Labyrinth Society’s website at https://labyrinthsociety.org/world-labyrinth-day for more information.

https://labyrinthsociety.org/world-labyrinth-day


Niantic Community Church: Each Member a Minister

Serving God through Stewardship of Time and Talents

This survey includes a variety of ways for you to offer your time and talent in thanks to God through service at Niantic Community Church and in the wider community. It includes possibilities for ministry that we have thought of and we’d be delighted to hear any new ideas for service you may have. Please complete this form and return it to the church office or place in an offering plate. Please mark all that apply: A = already serving in this area X = would consider serving in this area.

Caring for Others / Parish Life Assist in Worship A X A X

Make telephone calls Lay reader/liturgist Transportation to appointments or church Lay speaker Prayer chain Usher Provide meals Greeter Bake for funeral reception Baptism assistant New member ministry Parish visitors Call on homebound Decorate sanctuary Call on visitors Fill pew card holders Help at funeral receptions Special events (concerts, retreats) Serve home communion Other____________ Labyrinth Other__________

Thank you for your participation. If you have questions and/or suggestions, please contact Sonya Hoisington with Parish Life Ministry at 860-235-0170 or Patty Chaffee, our Community Minister at 860-739-6208. Also, please let us know if someone you know might benefit from some of these ministries. Name____________________________________________ Email__________________________________ Home Phone______________________________________ Cell____________________________________ How do you prefer to be contacted? -Phone -E-mail -Text

Our new and improved website is LIVE! And though we are still learning the ins and outs of our new Wordpress site, we are excited about our updated look. We hope you agree. Visit the NCC website at http://www.nianticcommunitychurch.org
http://www.nianticcommunitychurch.org/

tidings - niantic cmnty church€¦ · youth ministry our wanakee mission trip of 20 youth and 11...

Documents