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May 2004 Newsletter
    
Deadline for Newsletter Articles for next month is the 15th of the month.
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Reason To Rejoice!
Faith Filled Lent, Holy Week Are Reason To Rejoice!
Lent and Holy Week were indeed faith-filled days at Faith Lutheran Church during which the faithful gathered for spiritual renewal and growth.
We give thanks for moving mid-week worship that began with the somber Ash Wednesday service and then continued for five weeks. Congregation members shared their talents to present the drama, “The People Vs. Judas Iscariot,” which was set into a worship service. As each witness shared his or her testimony the ministry of Jesus was uniquely and clearly presented. The attorneys and judge added a few light moments with their bantering. And, the final witness – death – sent chills through the sanctuary. In the end the congregation, serving as jury, voted to grant Judas eternal grace.
Attendance remained strong all six Wednesday evenings, ranging from 97 to 122. Soup suppers preceded worship and also were well-attended with 80-100 people coming for fellowship each night.
The congregation gathered on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday for services that combined scripture, liturgy, reflections and varied, moving music. There were inspirational moments as Holy Communion was shared and the altar was stripped on Thursday and worshippers from Faith Lutheran and St. Hilary Catholic Churches came forward to honor the cross of Christ on Friday. Attendance on Maundy Thursday was 139 and on Good Friday was 282. There is indeed reason to rejoice as the people of Faith commit themselves more and more to spiritual growth and faithful living. For all this we say, “Thanks be to God!”
The Celebration Choir
The Celebration Choir will be presenting the Schubert Mass in G on May 16. We are looking for singers! Practices will be at 9:15 a.m. Sunday mornings. Those interested in participating should contact Scott McVey.
“Voices of Faith”
Another opportunity is available for those who like to sing but can’t make a commitment to the Celebration Choir. We are going to get a group together to sing at the 9:15 service on May 23. On that day, we celebrate the end of another Explorer’s Club season. We have a great anthem about becoming like a little child which will be perfect! We may also try a gospel piece or something else different and fun to use sometime during the summer. Please join us. The Weekly Beacon will carry details for dates and times of rehearsals, but start praying now about how you can be part of this exciting new ministry.
Christ Is Risen!
Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! All three worship services on Easter Sunday were joyous times of celebration. Each service was the same - blending traditional and contemporary aspects of worship - and creating a wonderful sense of unity among church goers. Music was provided by Bob Mollard, organist; The Flashlight Band; the Celebration Choir and the voices of the congregation. Many people gave of their time to prepare for and assist in worship, for which we are thankful.
This is the first time that three services have been held on Easter Sunday at Faith Lutheran Church. Although attendance this year was nearly identical to last year's count, the long term goal is for Easter to be an "Open House Day". With three services on THE most important day of the year, those attending have more choices. And, all will feel welcome because there will be room for everyone. Additionally, worship will be more meaningful if overcrowding is not an issue.
Attendance at worship was: 7:30 a.m., 93; 9 a.m., 148; 10:45 a.m., 250.
The youth, under the capable leadership of Leo and Wendy Boes, served breakfast in the Fellowship Hall from 8:15-10:15 a.m. The food and fellowship were both satisfying! Thanks are expressed to all who assisted with the breakfast, both on Saturday and Sunday. It's interesting to note that the time of the Easter breakfast was expanded this year, making it possible for people to be seated without waiting.
In all of this, though, the most important report is that the people of God gathered to celebrate and proclaim the good news that Jesus is alive! Alleluia!
Your Input is Important!
Worship Survey Distributed
On May 2 during the worship services every confirmed member, and also regular visitors, will have the opportunity to complete a survey about worship at Faith Lutheran Church.
This survey was developed by the Church Council and the Worship Team. It requests detailed information about congregation members worship habits and preferences. It also seeks people's reflections, opinions and suggestions for the future.
The youth, under the capable leadership of Leo and Wendy Boes, served breakfast in the Fellowship Hall from 8:15-10:15 a.m. The food and fellowship were both satisfying! Thanks are expressed to all who assisted with the breakfast, both on Saturday and Sunday. It's interesting to note that the time of the Easter breakfast was expanded this year, making it possible for people to be seated without waiting.
Anyone who is unable to complete the survey on May 2 may pick one up on May 9 from the tables in the narthex or the back of the Fellowship Hall. The deadline for returning the surveys is May 16.
New Members Received
New members will be received during the 9:15 a.m. worship service on May 2. A reception will be held in the Fellowship Hall immediately after the service to welcome them. Please stay - or come early - to offer your greetings and look for their names in the June Beacon of Faith.
Growth and Discipleship
From the Minister of Christian Growth and Discipleship, Carolyn Wagar
What a month. I don't know about you, but ever since Pastor Jean exhorted us to be "true followers" and not simply "admirers" of Jesus I have found myself in some pretty uncomfortable situations! Suddenly whether I wanted to do something or not had to be weighed against follower versus admirer! Pair that with the fact that in my most recent seminary class we are being taught that "taking up our cross to follow" often just means doing those things that are outside our comfort zones, and I'm suddenly trying to be kinder, gentler, and more considerate.
As noted elsewhere in this newsletter, there are many new learning opportunities here at Faith. Coming to a Bible study or going on retreat may most assuredly be out of your comfort zone but might be worth a try. As I write this, 18 brave women have committed to our first Women's Retreat: Extreme Spiritual Makeover. Several of them have expressed concern. People don't know what to expect, and that can be a bit frightening. Since every group of people brings a different dynamic to any meeting, I never know what to expect, either! One thing we can be sure of is that God will be present and with the Holy Spirit will make all our attempts at ministry far more meaningful than if we had to work on our own.
Great things are happening at FLC. Pastor has called us to be "radical", to remember "whose we are" and now to really examine what it takes to be true "followers." Join us on May 3 at 7 pm or May 8 at 9:30 am and help discern what God calls us to do next as His people at Faith Lutheran Church. There are going to be many opportunities for personal growth and growth as a congregation, and, like the retreat, it may be a bit frightening. But we have an awesome God and He will not let us fail!
Explorer Club
Year End Celebration - Explorer Club - May 23rd - During 9:15 a.m Worship
This year end celebration service will be held in the Sanctuary. Children will sit with their classes and will participate in the service, which will include Holy Communion. All parents and Clara's Club Guides are invited to attend worship.
Camp Creation
July 12 - July 16 (9 am - 12:30 pm)
For children who are entering Kindergarten to children who have completed 6th grade.
Interested in volunteering? Even if your availability is limited, we would love to have you! Call or email Beth Gsellman: Bgsellma@kent.edu (330-867-4569)
Life is Good"
Good Things Happen at Summer Camp
Campfires Games Arts and Crafts Worship Laughter Swimming Friendship - Weeks of June 13 thru August 8, 2004 - Week long and mini-week programs Ages K-12th grade and families Register for summer camp online at www.lomocamps.org How to reach us: Camp Luther 440-224-2196 LMC 419-864-8030 Camp Frederick 330-227-3633 Lomo Outreach 614-898-6993 Camp Mowana 419-589-7406 Central Office 800-431-5666 LMC 419-864-8030 Camp Mowana 419-589-7406
prayer shawl ministry
Our prayer shawl ministry has brought comfort and warmth to fourteen families. Many of these folks are Faith members who face challenges of mobility. The shawls are blessed during a worship service and passed among members who silently say a prayer for the recipients.
Our knitters and crocheters have been very busy and have made many more beautiful shawls which now wait to be given away. Do you know an individual or family who is in need of comfort and the assurance of prayer? They need not be members of this congregation; prayer shawls can be an outreach of our ministry to the community.
If you are interested in making a shawl, or in learning how to knit or crochet, just call Penny Thompson 330-666-5065. The yarn, needles, and hooks, will be supplied by the CLN Committee.
We Do Next?:
What Shall We Do Next?: Everyone in the congregation is welcome to attend "What Shall We Do Next?: Discerning God's call for Faith Lutheran Church." Just how "radical" does God want us to be? Where will we put all our expanded ministries? Shall we start an Elder Day Care Center or a Free Clinic? These and other ideas will be discussed as God's people come to listen, learn, and give opinions. There will be two identical sessions and you only need to attend one. The first is Monday, May 3 at 7 pm and the other session is Saturday, May 8 at 9:30 am. This is God's church and you are His people, let's see what exciting ideas are generated. Refreshments and child care will be provided.
New Groups
Please carefully check the May calendar. We have several new groups up and running and we'd love you to attend! Can't find a group that is interesting to you? Then call Carolyn and we'll discuss what else we need!
Can you build an Ark?
Well, we don't need ark builders exactly more like float builders. Yes! Fourth of July is just around the corner and we really need YOUR help with our annual float. Last year the band took on the responsibility, but we really want an ALL CHURCH effort this year! So please, please, we need people with the gifts of creativity, service, skilled labor, and great smiles. This can be a MAJOR OUTREACH opportunity for our congregation. Call Carolyn today and say you'll help…you won't want to be left off the "boat" on this one!
BAKE SALE
GREAT AMERICAN BAKE SALE - COMING TO FAITH
Maybe you've seen advertisement's for The Great American Bake Sale in Parade Magazine or on ABC? It is a nationwide movement held to raise money to feed hungry children in THIS country. Betty Crocker, Tyson Foods, ABC, and Share our Strength (an anti hunger organization) are all joining forces to help feed the more than 13 million children in America that are going hungry.
This will be a huge and exciting effort that will take cooperation and help from everyone! We need bakers, poster makers, bakers, face painters, bakers, people to pass out balloons, hot dog vendors…..and more. We are hoping to have some local celebrities and that's not all… This is BIG!
Please come to our first informational/organizational meeting. We will hold two identical meetings on Thursday, May 13. One meeting will be at 10 am and one meeting will be at 7 pm. Childcare will be provided. Please try to attend one of these meetings, and since this will be open to the community, bring a friend, relative, or neighbor! All of us care about children and we can really be successful with YOUR support.
This is going to be a wonderful way to get Faith seen by the community and bring the community to Faith! Visit the web site at www.greatamericanmakesale.org/site/ . If you have questions, call Carolyn at church or Margie Jelar at 330-864-8959.
Homosexuality Study
The Church and Homosexuality Study - Every adult in the congregation is encouraged to participate in Journey Together Faithfully, ELCA Studies on Sexuality, Part Two - The Church and Homosexuality. Faith Lutheran Church is joining with five other congregations to do this study; the pastors will take turns leading the sessions. This is a six-part study that will be held:
7-8 p.m. - Sundays - May 2, 16 and 23, June 6 and 13, Trinity Lutheran Church, Norton
This study is in preparation for the Churchwide Assembly that will be held in the summer of 2005. During that Assembly the issues of whether or not to allow clergy who identify themselves as homosexuals to be in committed relationships and whether or not the church will bless same-sex unions will be voted on. Voting Members to the Assembly will be elected at the Synod Assembly in May.
Mother Daughter Banquet
Quilted Treasures" the theme of this years Mother-
Daughter banquet and program will highlight quilts as a celebration and reflection of our lives. We are honored to have quilting expert Sheila Finklestein as our guest speaker, along with our own Nancy Chrisman and Ginny Greenawalt.
We are looking for members willing to display their quilted treasurers, old or new for everyone to enjoy.
A very special program is planned for the "Little Women" of Faith, during which they will make their own quilted treasure for Mother's Day.
Mark your calendar for the upcoming Mother-Daughter Banquet. This annual event is scheduled for Thursday, May 6 - punch will be served at 6:30 p.m. followed by a salad supper. Please add to our delicious salad buffet with your favorite salad. Rolls, beverages and dessert will be provided. The sign up board can be found in the Narthex and at the entrance into the Fellowship Hall. This years program is $3.00 for adults, $2.00 for children, under 5 free.
Bible Study
Sundays 10:30Alex Simpson a.m., Fellowship Hall - Study of the book of John
Moms of Faith 7:00 p.m. May 3, 17
We will be using the Bible Study, "Celebrating Friendship" by Luci Swindoll. Contact Joanne Caton at 330-865-6744 for more information.
Babysitting will be provided in the nursery.
Scrapbooking Marathon
- Tuesday May 11 - 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. If you plan to stay the entire time, bring a sack lunch and food for your kids! Child care provided. Call Carolyn at church (330-836-881), or Paula Gresock (330-334-3272) if you have questions.
WELCA
Wednesday, May 12 10:00 a.m.
Brunch at the church - Followed by - First Ladies Museum, Canton
(field trip) - Call Bettemae Ramsey to make your reservation (330-836-5211)
Bible Study
Wednesdays July 28 - September 1 - 7:00 p.m - 8:00 p.m. and also
Thursdays July 29 - September 2 - 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Led by Pastor Jean
Attend one of the two sessions each week. You may "mix and match" sessions ...come in the mornings sometimes or at night sometimes, whatever meets your needs.
Attention Golfers
St. Luke Annual Benefit - Raintree Country Club, Wednesday, June 30
10:00 a.m. (Registration begins at 9:00 a.m.)
The event will feature a day of golf on the 18-hole championship course, cart, lunch, hole-in-one contests, raffle prizes and a buffet dinner in the club dining room. Proceeds will go to the St. Luke Foundation resident assistance program.
Faith Golf Outings
June 27, July 25, August 29, September 19
These are the dates scheduled for the Faith golf outings at Pine Valley Golf Course in Wadsworth. Anyone interested in hosing a lite supper after one of these outings should please contact Sally Hauth, 330-825-8477.
Thank You
From Polly Dobkin, Congregational President:
What a wonderful Lenten season we enjoyed! So many people gave of their time and talent to make it a memorable experience. The Worship Team is to be commended for the planning and organization involved in making this such a success. The cooks provided a great variety of soup, bread and dessert to tempt our palates. Thank you to the Lay Readers who graciously volunteered and to all who inspired us with their music. The actors transformed us into a Jury as we listened to the Prosecutor, Defense Attorney and those on the witness stand. We the Jury, were given the task of deciding the fate of Judas.
Holy Week was a time of preparation. We experienced the foot washing of the disciples at the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday and the reading of the Passion with our neighbors from St Hilary on Good Friday. Easter Sunday was a glorious day of celebration. Pastor Jean told us that Easter is the most important day of the year. She invited us to open the windows and shout "Jesus is Alive". Let us share the good news with all who will listen.
We are truly blessed to have so many members who are always willing to help in several different ways. Thank you and may God bless all of you.
Thank You
From Vee Robinson: A Big THANKS …
To all those who participated in making the Easter basket project a BIG success -226 Easter baskets were filled with candies and toys and taken to Children's Services for distribution. Generous donations from ladies of WELCA, Faith Preschool, the CLN Committee, Faith's Youth Group, Debbie Gottas and Vee Robinson made this possible! Also assistance from DuWayne and Dorothy Hansen, Jean Bulter, Joanne Caton, setting up the goodies was greatly appreciated. Wendy and Leo Boes and the Youth Group assembled the baskets on Sunday, March 28. Another 25+ baskets were donated by various congregation members, making the total number of baskets over 250!!! Also, donations of candies, toys and stuffed animals from members of the congregation were greatly appreciated.
Thank You
From Connie Humble, Summit County Children Services:
Dear Mrs. Butler and Members:
WOW! Where do I begin? On behalf of the staff of Summit County Children Services and the children we serve, I want to thank you and the members of Faith Lutheran Church for donating 250 Easter baskets for the children in our care. Unbelievable!
I understand you have coordinated this project for many years and it has taken on a life of its own. I want to personally thank you for again taking the lead on this annual project for your church and for making Easter brighter for children in our care.
Thank You
From Barbara Reiter, ACCESS
To Faith Lutheran Youth:
On behalf of the board members, staff and clients at ACCESS, Inc. I thank you for your March 24 contribution of 42 sack lunches. If is with donations such as yours that we are able to offer a safe and supportive environment for our clients.
In Our Prayers:
Health Concerns: Faith member Louise Baltes, Faith member Mary Alice Boose, Faith member Mary Ann Crutcher, Faith member Pat Gsellman, Faith member Bob Johnson, Faith member Justine Molnar, Faith member Alison Seefelt
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., For the Faith Lutheran Church congregation, that each person might joyfully celebrate the resurrection of Jesus during the Easter Season.
In Times of Loss: For the Downing and Carano families upon the death of Bill and Diane's grandmother, Helen Clarke, on March 26., For the family of Phyllis Gadd Beisel, a former member of
Faith Lutheran Church, who died in Georgia on April 12. Services were held in Florida.
In Thanksgiving: With thanksgiving to God for the unexpected return of the sight of Faith member Charlie Ramsey, and with gratitude for all the prayers.
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