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January 2007 Newsletter
    
Deadline for Newsletter Articles for next month is the 15th of the month.
Email the Church Office or fax the office at 330-836-8872
Use Newsletter submission form here on the website or place in church office newsletter mail box.
Un-Decorate
Please Help Un-Decorate - Following Both Worship Services - January 7, 2006 - Many hands make light work!
From Sally Butler …
Just wanted to share with you the heart-warming experience Chris, Kerry, and I had helping serve the Thanksgiving meal at OPEN M. We had the pleasure of working with a variety of gracious volunteers ranging from school age children to senior citizens. Furthermore, interacting with the less fortunate, yet truly appreciative people, who came for the sit-down dinner was extremely touching. It made us more aware of how truly blessed we are, and reinforced the realization of how little time and effort it takes to put a smile on a stranger’s face.
A sense of hope was conveyed through the eyes of people we helped serve. Even though we played a small role in what transpired that evening, it was very rewarding and the true meaning of Thanksgiving echoed through us. Walking to our car, Chris and Kerry asked if we could volunteer at OPEN M again next Thanksgiving. My reply was, “Absolutely!”
OPERATION GOOD SAMARITAN
Our Good Samaritan network expanded this year to include a beauty salon, a girl scout troop, and various family and friends! Thanks to those people and the generous people here at Faith, we helped four families who would have otherwise had no Christmas at all. The two social workers involved expressed that these particular families were those who didn’t ask for help or seek a hand out and were amazed and appreciative of the willingness of others. I reminded the social workers that we are trying to “be Jesus” to those people in some small way. Thanks again, so much, for your help.
A POEM TO ALL TEAM MEMBERS
Do you rummage, do you teach, do you out to others reach?
Do you make the yummy soup for our hospice family group?
Do you sing or do you play, work with children, knit, or pray?
Do you bake or help our youth learn to live in God’s own truth?
Do you for our worship read, serve on Council, or lay weed?
Do you help with VBS when we strive to do our best?
Do you help prepare the altar, do you work with quilts and pins?
Do you work in Judy’s office, or take communion to shut-ins?
Do you clean and decorate so that Faith always looks great?
Do you usher, do you greet, pass out eggs across the street?
Do you ring a hand bell cheerful or pray with others when they’re tearful?
Do you serve on CLN, or call people now and then?
Do you march in the parade, offer water, give folks aide?
Do you work with all God’s money, making sure it’s done just so?
Do you help out in the courtyard helping lovely flowers grow?
Do you serve with our Endowment or Finance or Nominating?
Do you give to Good Samaritan without ever hesitating?
Do you make sure worship happens, do you keep the building strong?
Do you help with advertising, inviting people to belong?
Do you give yourself to children in Clara’s Club or junior choir?
Do you teach kids about Jesus and set their little hearts on fire?
If you serve in any way, then I simply want to say,
That your gifts are needed greatly; we appreciate you much!
And we ASK that you come 1/20 so that all our teams can touch.
It’s a Saturday in the morning and we want ALL TEAMS to meet.
It will be a time together, it will be a time to EAT!
ALL TEAM MEMBERS come and join us as we work to do God’s will,
He will bless us as we gather, and His promises fulfill.
CJWH 2006
Preschool registration
For church members only!!! - Sunday, January 7, 10-10:30 a.m. in the Kinship Café area -- Don't miss out on your chance to register before we open to the public! Any questions??? Call Wendy or Heather at 330-836-8827
A Look Ahead in Explorers’ Club………
Explorers’ classes will resume on January 7. The children will continue their winter curriculum study. *** Please note there is no “winter learning event” planned for this school year. Class will meet during normally scheduled worship times for the remainder of the school year.
Greetings from the Children’s Choirs!!
I want to begin this by telling all of you how proud I am of our children. They have spent a lot of time this fall working on our Christmas program “Star Journey” and it showed. They were AWESOME! For several weeks, I promised you that this would be “Cosmic”, “a real kick in the comet” and those who attended will also attest to the fact that they did leave with “Stars in their eyes”. (Maybe a few tears too!).
I also want to thank again the dedication of Gabe Hyter and Julie Magons. We are truly equal partners in what goes on at choir. My last thank you is to the parents. Gabe, Julie & I couldn’t do this if the parents don’t bring the children to us and support us in a multitude of other ways.
Now that I’ve had a couple of hours to relax, it’s on to thoughts of the new year. We will resume choir practice on January 17 at 7 p.m. in the choir room. Come ready to sing and have more fun. See you there!!
Michelle Borodikin
First Communion Class
Mark Your Calendars For First Communion Class
First Communion Class will be 4-6 p.m. on Sunday, February 25, in the Fellowship Hall. All children in third grade or older who have not yet participated in First Communion Class are invited to attend with at least one parent.
Parents of children younger than third grade may request that their children be allowed to participate in the class by contacting Pastor Jean. The congregation’s policy is that the Pastor will determine whether or not a child younger than third grade will be accepted to the Lord’s Table.
First Communion will be celebrated during 9:15 a.m. worship on Sunday, March 4 for those who have participated in the class.
Confirmation Class :
Classes with Janice and Lucius on Sunday, January 14 and 28 at 9:15 a.m. Class with Pastor Jean on Wednesday, January 10 at 6:30 p.m. Fellowship Activity on Sunday, January 14th - lunch at noon, sledding (weather permitting!) from 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. at Hawkins Hill. Parents must provide transportation for the youth!
9th Grade Class: Meetings on Sunday, January 14 and 28 with Wendy and Leo in the Library at 9:15 a.m. Join us for breakfast and conversation. High School Youth: Meeting at Panera on Sunday, January 7 and 21 at 9:15 a.m. Grades 9-12: Wednesday Night Youth Gathering on January 24 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
FAMILY NIGHT at ED'S DINER
Are you missing some good old-fashioned family fun? Tired of cooking dinner for the family and then all heading off in separate directions? Why not let Ed cook for you and provide some fun too?
On Saturday, January 13 from 5 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Join us at ED'S DINER for good food & great fun! Bring the kids in their pj's and your favorite family game. Make it a "date" with another family! (Menu, Relish Trays, Sloppy Joes, Chips, Dessert) Cost $8 per person - Tickets Are On Sale Now! Let Ed be your Valentine this year. You deserve some romantic time with your sweetie! No cooking, no dishes - just awesome food, great service and relaxation! Plenty of opportunity to play footsie under the table. ED'S DINER Valentine Celebration On Saturday, February 10 from 5-8:00 Menu Salad & Bread, Steak OR Chicken, Baked Potato, Green Beans, Dessert, Pre-Sale Ticket Cost $12 for Chicken, $15 for Steak, Child care for the little ones will be offered in the nursery.
Our guests from November were RAVING!!! Get your tickets now! Seating for this event on sale now 100% of the profit will go towards the YOUTH MISSION TRIP GUATEMALA SUMMER 2007
Won't you join us in support of our youth as they raise the needed funds for their call to mission in Guatemala? For more information, or to make a donation, please contact David and Melissa Johnson at 330-334-7080 OR Leo and Wendy Boes at 330-414-0300. We thank you for your prayers & support.
Church Council
Serving the Church in 2007
During the Annual Meeting on November 19 the following people were elected to the Church Council: Diane Christoff, Matt Harpster, Karl Schwarze, Greg Stafford
Other congregation members who were elected to positions of leadership are: Audit Committee: Bill Evans, Endowment Committee: Michael Carano, Nominating Committee: Debbie Gottas, Jeff Mallison and Linda Weidrick, Synod Assembly Delegates: Lowell and Marlene Unger
The Church Council elected or appointed the following persons to serve as officers: President – Polly Dobkin, Vice-President – Mark Watkins, Secretary – Pat Gsellman, Treasurer – Judy Lee, Financial Secretary – Ken Jakubec
Please pray for them in these positions of leadership.
SPECIAL NOTICE TO COUNCIL
Please note: There will be NO COUNCIL MEETING on January 15th. Council members need to attend the ALL TEAM MEETING on Saturday January 20th. Council will have a breakfast meeting beginning promptly at 8:15 which will lead into the TEAM MEETING.
FAQs on the Building Expansion Project
Q: “When will we see a rendering of the front addition?”
Q: “How many new parking spaces will we gain?”
Q: “Will we be handicap accessible?”
In December, Faith held four Q&A Sessions as opportunities for members to look a little more closely at the drawings for the building expansion project and ask questions of the Building and Building Finance Teams. We welcomed your questions! Some we could handle easily, some we needed to consult with experts, and some we won’t know until we are further into the project. If you missed the Q&A Sessions but have a burning question, please contact Dineen Dowling (330-873-1869 or dineend@neo.rr.com) and she will try to find an answer for you. An extensive Q&A Report will be compiled and available in the Narthex or outside the Fellowship Hall.
A: Sometime in January, 2007
A: 32 new parking spaces
A: Yes! An automatic door into the Welcome Center, an elevator up to the second floor, and the new handicap accessible restrooms will make Faith much more inviting to those who need a little extra help.
New Bishop Installation
On February 3 - The Rev. Elizabeth Eaton was elected Bishop of the ELCA Northeastern Ohio Synod on December 2, 2006. She will be installed at 2 p.m. on February 3, 2007 at St. Paul Episcopal Church in Akron. ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson will preside over the installation.
Bishop-Elect Eaton most recently served as pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church in Ashtabula. She was born in Bay Village, Ohio. In 1973 she earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Education from The College of Wooster. She earned a master of divinity degree in 1980 from Harvard Divinity School. Following ordination in 1981, she served congregations in Worthington and Youngstown before being called to Messiah Lutheran in 1991.
There were five ballots to elect the Bishop; in the last one she received 281 votes over the Rev. David Anderson, co-pastor of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Medina, who received 233 votes.
Bishop-Elect Eaton is married to the Rev. Conrad Selnick, who is an Episcopal priest serving St. Christopher-By-The-River in Gates Mills, Ohio. They are the parents of two college-age daughters, Rebeckah and Susannah.
The ELCA Northeastern Ohio Synod has nearly 85,000 members in 207 congregations.
Prayer Shawl Knitters
The Prayer Shawl knitters and crocheters will be meeting each Thursday morning at 10 a.m. in the fellowship hall. This group consists of experienced and novice workers. Please come and work with us and/or learn from us. All are welcome.
Letters to Faith
" Dear Friends at Faith Lutheran, Thank you for your gift of $250.00 to Lutheran Outdoor Ministries in Ohio. We are grateful and humbled by your faithful stewardship of God’s good gifts.The autumn leaves crackle an crunch under foot. The leaves blanket our camps with colorful natural mulch. Gratitude abounds as we send our appreciation to you at this Advent season. We appreciation your financial contribution to this ministry. Your prayers and gifts do make a difference. In Christ’s service, Penny R. Christensen, LOMO Executive Director# # # Dear Friends of Habitat, Habitat for Humanity of Summit co. Inc. is very grateful for your generous donation of $1500. Your donation will go directly towards the building of simple, decent, affordable homes in Summit County. Our mission is to eliminate sub-standard housing in Summit County and with the help of individuals such as you we are making this mission a vision. I invite you to contact me for a personal tour of current homes we have under construction. I would be honored to show you how your donation is being put to use here in your community.
Sincerely, Andrea Victor, Programs Coordinator# # # Dear Faith Preschool, On behalf of the Visiting Nurse Services Hospice Care Center I would like to thank you for your generous donation of cookies. Your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated by our staff, patients and their families and helps us to fulfill the concept of Hospice. Sincerely, Evelyn Burkhart, Director of Development# # # Dear Friends, As the Christmas season approaches, we are surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the Holidays. It’s easy to get wrapped up in all the tinsel, glitter, and unending hassles of shopping. It makes me wonder if people remember the real meaning of Christmas. During this time of year many people commend the ministries of OPEN M. Others, like you, choose with their heart to follow their passion and get involved; understanding the TRUE meaning of Christmas. This ministry is totally dependant upon gifts like your recent donation of $1500 to OPEN M. Be assured that your gift will make an immediate difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you for not losing sight of ministry in the midst of the rush of Christmas. May we together continue to always follow His light! Serving under His Grace, Dottie Arcmoody, Chief Executive Officer"
WELCA
Wednesday, January 10 10 a.m. Fellowship Hall - Holland Excursion Shared, And “Comfy Chair” Challenge
Traveling on alternative transportation—a barge—Norma Setteur attended an Elder Hostel tour called Road Scholar in Holland in May 2006, tulip season. As a second part of the morning program, we will be challenged to answer questions in the game of “Comfy Chair” led by Norma.
Devotions: Maxine Heldridge, Hostesses: Marion McHenry and Deanie Sefton
Copley High School Chamber Singers
The Copley High School Chamber Singers presented an outstanding music program for the December meeting. The program was enjoyed by twenty-eight ladies and gentlemen, who also enjoyed the delicious Christmas cookies, coffee and punch.
ALL TEAM MEETING:
LEADERS! MEMBERS! HELPERS! Saturday, January 20 9:15 A.M. Breakfast and Nursery provided.
Couples Retreat
That’s right. Time to set aside some “couple time” and join us for a time of non-threatening, non-violent, non-embarassing communication. Our 23 hour retreat will begin Friday, February 23 in the evening and conclude Saturday, February 24 no later than 4 p.m. It will be at the Holiday Inn on Rt. 8 in Hudson. There will be group discussions, quiet time, and time for couples to enjoy the facilities, or nature, or simply each other. Please call Carolyn for details or to reserve your space. We can even provide enthusiastic endorsements from the couples who came last year!
In Our Prayers:
Health Concerns: Faith member Bob Heldridge; Faith member Dick Kesti;
Special Prayers: For all military personnel who have been deployed to Iraq and surrounding areas, and for their families, with special prayers for those who have endured injury or loss.; That peace would prevail in our world, and that there would be healing in those places torn apart by war and violence, especially Iraq.
In Time of Loss: For the family and friends of Faith visitor John Gruich upon his death on November 25, that they will be comforted.; For the family and friends of Faith member Doug Winslow upon his death on December 14, that they will be comforted. Pastor Jean presided at his funeral on December 18.; For the family and friends of Faith member Ted Peterson upon his death on December 17, that they will be comforted. Pastor Jean presided at his Memorial service on December 22.
Greetings Faith Members!
We thank you for reading this month’s newsletter. It was so filled with good news, why not share it with others? Remove the address label and then leave it at the doctor’s office or the hair salon. Or, hand it to a new neighbor or friend who has no church home. Share the goodness … that is the goodness of the love of God in Jesus!
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