TheVisitor Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter August 2013 • Vol. XLVII No. 7 • www.asburyfirst.org
In This Issue AFUMC News, 3 On Holy Ground, 4 Outreach News, 6 Visitation Ministry, 7 Youth Leadership, 9 “Peace by Piece”, 10 Sports Fellowship, 13 1
Mission Statement
The Visitor
Through worship, education, outreach, and care, we develop
Vol. XLVII No. 7
disciples of Jesus Christ who live and proclaim the Gospel and
(USPS 558-470) is published 10 times a year, monthly with combined issues for December/January and July/August, by Asbury First United Methodist Church.
thereby work to transform our culture.
inspired to serve
Periodical postage paid at Rochester, N.Y.
‘When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left. Then the king will say to those at his right hand, “Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” Then the righteous will answer him, “Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?” And the king will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Then he will say to those at his left hand, “You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.” Then they also will answer, “Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not take care of you?” Then he will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.” And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.’–Matthew 25:31-46
POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to Asbury First UMC Visitor 1050 East Ave. Rochester, N.Y. 14607-2239 (585) 271-1050
Staff
Rev. Susan S. Shafer Rev. Stephen Cady
Rev. Lawrence Hargrave
Kathy Thiel David T. Strong Dr. William J. Weinert Paula Dugan Melissa Bohrer Richard Moncrief Melody Guadagnino Michele Cooley Jason Franklin Mary Van Keuren Duane A. Prill David T. Strong Bozena Granat Elizabeth Church Brian Bohrer Larry Dugan Rev. Linda Clemow
Senior Minister Minister for Faith Formation – Hospitality & Membership Care Minister for Outreach and Community Connection Ministries Visitation Minister Music Administrator Director of Music Co-director of Children’s Ministry Co-director of Children’s Ministry Financial Administrator Administrative Assistant Dining & Caring Center Director Property Care Manager Communications Director & Editor Organist Assistant Organist Director, Children’s Music Director, Bell Choir Director, Youth Music Director, Youth Theater Artist in Residence
Have you ever had an encounter with someone and later wondered “Was that Jesus?” Many times we look at service as helping someone else. More times than not, our efforts to help, bless us as much as we think we are being a blessing to someone else. Ask any of those who volunteer in the many outreach programs of Asbury First. Many of the volunteers are not members of our church. Many of our volunteers have been serving for more years than they can count. Others are relatively new. There are numerous and very personal reasons why people are inspired to serve. Several months ago, a group of Asbury First members, while traveling in Italy, experienced the story of the 13th century friar St. Francis of Assisi. After an encounter with the Holy, Francis dedicated his life totally to serve the poor. His example continues to inspire people to this day, including the current Roman Catholic Pope, who took the name of Francis.
Cover: Maggie and Josh Pinke and Katie Dziduch at the Park Ave. Fest, where they manned the Asbury First booth (see page 10 for more). Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@asburyfirst.org or (585) 2711050 x109.
Have you seen Jesus? Are you inspired to serve? In a society in which many choose to judge others by who they are, our scripture reminds us that ultimately we will be judged by who we serve.
Deadline for next issue: Tuesday, August 27
Peace, Blessings and Good Journey.
Read The Visitor online: www.asburyfirst.org
Lawrence 2
AFUMC news Church Library Room Use The Asbury First Resource Library, in the education wing, is such an inviting spot that we sometimes find competing interests make it unavailable as an actual library during the time it’s most in demand—between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sundays. Kindly be aware that between those hours, the library should be available to all as a library, not as a meeting room. The one exception remains the brief gatherings of families prior to baptisms. The library is available for meetings throughout the rest of the week, though, and can be reserved by contacting the church administrative assistant, Melody Guadagnino at (585) 271-1050 x103 or mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org. Thank you for your assistance. – Church Resource Library Committee
present a program titled “Heritage Hymns: I Shall Sing With the Spirit and I Shall Sing with the Mind Also (1 Corinthians 14:15b).” Donations of items for Asbury First’s Dining and Caring Center will be collected. To reserve your space, call Joan Closson at (585) 671-5534 by Thursday, September 19. Interested in finding out more about the Circle? Ginn Fitch will be happy to chat with you. Call her at 381-6464. Music Kick-Off Picnic It’s hard to believe that it’s right around the corner, but we’re planning the annual Music Kick-off Picnic on Wed., August 28 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall (please note the change in venue for this year!). Everyone who’s involved in music or interested in being involved in music at Asbury First is welcome, along with their families. Please bring a dish to pass (grilled chicken, beverages and place settings will be provided). We’ll enjoy a meal together, reconnect with old friends and make new friends as well. If you’re new to Asbury First or have never participated in the music programming but would like to, we invite you to join us and meet some new friends! RSVP to Deb Smith at debbullocksmith@gmail.com or (585) 230-7497 if you’re coming.
Ministry & Space Task Force Update The Ministry & Space Task Force has met weekly throughout the summer months to create possible space utilization scenarios incorporating the major themes that have emerged from our interviews and work to date. We have created a detailed map of how all of our space on campus is utilized on a daily basis, and we have walked the entire campus to visualize the current condition and usability of our space. Both of these assessments show that we have space that is under-utilized and could be repurposed. We are meeting again with some of the major ministries on campus, including the Dining and Caring Center and Storehouse, in order to ensure that we understand their current and future needs. Once we complete the scenarios, we will take them to a larger group, including all campus-based ministries and groups who could be affected by them. We will then work through the advantages and disadvantages of each scenario and determine the best one to recommend to the church body. No decisions have yet been made as to space usage or potential changes to the campus, as we are still evaluating options. We hope to have the scenarios completed early this Fall, and to present them at a church-wide meeting by year end. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Chuck Hanrahan, Chair of the Task Force at chuck.hanrahan@gmail.com or 383-8794.
School 41 Tutors Needed Are you looking for a challenging but greatly rewarding volunteer opportunity? Since 2007, Asbury First volunteers have helped the students of School #41 to reach their academic goals by helping them to improve their reading and math skills and assisting in other ways at this urban school. 87 percent of the school’s 600 students live below the poverty line; your help plays a vital role in giving these young people the tools to rise out of poverty and achieve their full potential. If you are interested in helping out, please contact Nancy Davidow at ndavidow@ aol.com. Please keep this important ministry in your prayers throughout the school year. Thank you! Bible Study This Fall We’ll have two Bible Study classes at Asbury First this fall, both facilitated by Asbury First friend, Rev. David Lubba. Here are the details: • Wednesday Bible Study, starting September 11 10:00-11:00 a.m., 1010 East Ave., Meditation Room We invite you to be a part of this on-going study group.
Roudebush Circle News Roudebush Circle of the United Methodist Women will hold a “Welcome Back for the Fall” event on Tuesday, September 24 at 6:00 p.m. in 1010 East Avenue. Women and men are invited to this celebration. A catered dinner will be provided (please bring your own table service) at a cost of $8.50. Joan Callahan will
Continued on page 10
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on holy ground On Holy Ground, created by the Center for Spiritual Life, highlights opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal.
Take Another Look at the Gospels
TAIZE
The Gospels offer a variety of riches. Written in the years after Jesus’s death they contain accounts of his life, stories he told, challenges he faced, joys he experienced, wisdom he imparted, and much, much more. They tell of the beginnings of two of the sacraments in the Methodist Church - baptism and communion. Matthew, Mark and Luke tell of Jesus’ baptism; Christians throughout the world baptize in the name of God the Creator, Christ the Redeemer and the Holy Spirit. The story of Jesus’ birth is told in detail in the gospels of Matthew and Luke; it is only in Luke that there are shepherds in the fields who see the star. Matthew is the only one who tells us about the Magi. Mark’s gospel begins with Jesus as an adult. In John, we read that the Word was made flesh to live among us. Each of the four canonical gospels is different, but each tells of Jesus’ last supper and his resurrection. Read them all to discover the nuances of each particular author.
During our four summer Taize services, we were fed by the silence, by the music played so lovingly by Ann J. Johnson, Laurie Kennedy, Gwen Gassler, and Annette Farrington, and by holy communion. Taize services will continue into the coming months on the second Wednesdays of September, October and November. We will gather in the chancel at 6:30 p.m. and offer our prayers and hearts to God through quiet contemplation, singing, listening, being. The labyrinth will be open on these Wednesdays from 5:007:00 p.m. for those who wish to coordinate a deepening labyrinth walk with community worship. Our Taize services will be held from 6:30-7:15 p.m. on these dates:
The first three gospels, Matthew, Mark and Luke, are often referred to as the synoptic gospels because they tell similar stories. The gospel of John is considered to be different enough from the first three that it stands on its own and is not known as a synoptic gospel. John is the only one to tell the story of the wedding at Cana where Jesus turns water into wine; John is also the only one who tells the story of the woman at the well. Themes of love and acceptance of all of God’s children run through all four of the gospels.
September 11 October 9
November 13
During the September 11 service we will lift prayers keeping especially in our hearts those whose lives have been forever touched by the deaths of friends and loved ones. All are invited to these services, and all are included in the invitation to holy communion. We look forward to seeing you there. If you have any questions, please contact Kathy Thiel at 271-1050 x. 112. Have a blessed day.
I invite you at the beginning of this exciting new year of programming, to open the Gospels, find a story to which you are drawn, reflect upon it, find ways in which it speaks to you, wonder at how Jesus’ love works in your life. Ask questions of the text, write down thoughts that are generated from your reading. Find the ways in which God speaks to you through these texts. There is an abundance of riches to be had! – Kathy Thiel
W
e hope that you have had opportunities this summer to experience peaceful surroundings and special time with God. As we look forward to the coming church year, we invite you to pass along any ideas, thoughts, or suggestions for spiritually oriented programs we could offer at Asbury First. Please contact: Rev. Susan Shafer at sshafer@asburyfirst.org or 271-1050 x110; Kathy Thiel, 271-1050 x112 or kthiel@ asburyfirst.org or Marty Garland, at 385-0982. You may also contact any of the Spiritual Life Committee members: Karen Barner Linda Freed Cindy Burkhardt Ida Hickman Linda Clemow Timothy Johnson Charlotte Craig Christine Shah David Crawford Jeanne Stickney Bill Freed Lois Wentis
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AFUMC news
WORSHIP worship schedule
Sunday September 1 Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher 8:30 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion 10:00 a.m. Traditional worship with Summer Choir Sunday September 8 all pastors will preach 8:30 a.m. Traditional worship with Asbury Singers 10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion 11:00 a.m. Traditional worship with Sanctuary Choir Sunday September 15 Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher 8:30 a.m. Traditional worship with Asbury Singers 10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
11:00 a.m. Traditional worship with Sanctuary Choir
Our Living
in Community
Deaths
Owen Charles Skiles son of David and Kristen Skiles, baptized on July 6, 2013.
Merciful God, we entrust to your never-failing care and love
Sunday September 22 Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher 8:30 a.m. Traditional worship with Asbury Singers
We offer our prayers and Robert Dylan Freese sympathy to the family and friends son of Jennifer and Robert Freese, of baptized on July 7, 2003. Rick McKibben who died on June 13, 2013. Kyler Jackson Weather son of Ann Marie and Eric We offer our prayers and Weather, baptized on July 7, 2003. sympathy to the family and friends of Henry Rhome Ruanphae Don Curtis son of Rhome and Sondra who died on June 28, 2013. Ruanphae, baptized on July 7,
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion 11:00 a.m. Traditional worship with Sanctuary Choir Sunday september 29 Jeremiah 1:1-3, 6-15 Rev. Susan Shafer, preacher 8:30 a.m. Traditional worship with Asbury Singers
2003. We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends Adrianna Elizabeth Coccia of daughter of Cara and Daniel Cliff Rogers Coccia, baptized on July 21, 2003. who died on June 27, 2013.
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
Births & Baptisms God has sealed you unto love and grace divine
11:00 a.m. Traditional worship with Sanctuary Choir
Ellie Malik daughter of Jennifer and Jeffrey Malik, born on April 19, 2013.
T ogether in M inistry S unday S eptember 8
Alexander James Towsley son of Catherine and Adam Towsley, baptized on June 23, 2013. Hailey Christine Singer daughter of Lynn and Steven Singer, baptized on June 23, 2013.
Join us as we return to our regular schedule of services at
Zachary Miles Pittinaro son of Kristine and Ryan Pittinaro, baptized on June 23, 2013.
8:30, 10:00, and 11:00 am on Sunday, September 8. You'll have the chance to find out about volunteer opportunities at Asbury First, and we'll share lunch after the 11:00 am service. Bring a dessert to share – we'll supply the rest! 5
Marriages May the blessings of God’s love go with you in your new covenant. Andrelece Reed and Richard Verrastro on June 8, 2013. Kimbery Hines and Willis Ferrel on June 15, 2013. Mara Tramonto and Jordan Stevens on June 22, 3013. Elizabeth Eagan and John Pasquarella on July 5, 2013. Christina Kay and Rotthachack Kirivong on July 6, 2013.
Outreach news What A Difference a Decade Makes!
each year by Asbury First and Baber AME: sprucing up yards and homes, planting flowers at street corners, and installing plantings at churches, schools, and public buildings.
A
Terry Elkins, Rand Warner, and Beverly Schuman standing next to the memorial for Tyshaun Cauldwell in the City of Rochester’s JOSANA area.
sbury First members have been working in and with a challenged Northwest side City of Rochester neighborhood known as the JOSANA for more than a decade now; you can really begin to see the difference! Beginning shortly after the shooting death of a 10-yearold boy named Tyshaun Lamar Cauldwell in 2001, the City of Rochester was galvanized into action. Asbury First people responded in many different ways over the following years:
• Our congregants have helped build new homes through Habitat for Humanity, which has built more than two dozen new homes, and is planning to complete a total of 100 homes in the JOSANA area over ten years. • Asbury First has partnered with a JOSANA neighborhood church, Ark of Jesus Ministries, to provide assistance for their Celebration of Life Community, Inc. outreach effort. Although there is still a high turnover of residents in the neighborhood and a high percentage of renters and absentee landlords, there is evidence of people taking ownership: pocket parks and flower palntings are getting care. Care is also given to the memorial gardens erected in honor of Tyshaun and a young girl who was also an innocent shooting victim.
• Our ministers have toured the neighborhood and been involved in discussions with neighborhood leaders.
When our friends and members and others work in this neighborhood and interact with residents, they not only accomplish progress visible to those on the outside, but they also bring hope, inspiration, encouragement, accomplishment, vision and enoblement to the residents and others on the inside. We are all God’s children. Let us keep working on the FISH (fixing what is broken right now) and also on the fish POLE (helping people to prosper and become self-sustaining in all ways for the long term.) Thus we can build a city of and for God. – Rand Warner & Bob Schuman
• Members of our congregation have become involved with neighborhood organizations such as JOSANA, Tyshaun Cauldwell Memorial Community Drop-In Center, Charles Settlement House, neighborhood churches, and others. • Many members, including the Asbury First Garden Committee, as well as guests and employees from the Dining & Caring Center, participated in the Great Week of Service, held jointly
Together in Service Week (Formerly Great Week of Service) Sunday, October 12-Saturday, October 19 Together in Service week offers the Asbury First congregation an opportunity to reach out to the Rochester community with God’s love. This year’s dates include Columbus Day, offering families an opportunity to join in the volunteer efforts. A broad range of service opportunities are planned for the entire congregation (both young and old).We are also encouraging the various committees and classes to designate a specific activity that they will do as a group. “Together in Service” offers each of us an opportunity to combine our time and talents with other members of the congregation to make a difference in the community. During this week hundreds of AFUMC members will volunteer thousands of hours in service to our neighbors. You can volunteer for just a few hours, a full day or throughout the week. We are again partnering with Baber AME Church. Working with community organizations such as the Salvation Army Center, the West Avenue UMC Youth Café, Saint Mary’s Adult Day Care Center, and school 41, AFUMC is helping to enrich the lives of others. Volunteer activities have included meal preparations, movies, health kit assemble and distribution, teen nights activities, auctions, baby showers and jewelry making workshops. Painting and repair projects are also planned throughout the city. You can register for volunteer activities after church beginning September 8 or online at http://tinyurl.com/n3ah99y. For further information feel free to contact the organizing committee members: Andy Dutcher, Carolyn Hamil, John Smalt, Barbara Eltinge or Bob Castle; you may email Bob at rcastle166@frontiernet.net.
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• Visitation ministry • Kathy Thiel, Stepping into the Role of Church Visitor at Asbury First, Explains What Visitation Ministy is, and How it is Something We Can All Experience
I
n September of 2012
we share our histories, talk
you welcomed me in
about good books we’ve read,
to your faithful fellow-
sit together in companionable
ship of followers, the Asbury
silence. During Lent we have
First community of faith,
shared communion together –
as a Student Minister. This
this is always a possibility for
relationship involved Colgate
those who would like it. It is a
Rochester Crozer Divinity
treat to tour your gardens, see
School (CRCDS) where I am a
pictures of your families and
student in the Master of Divin-
friends, and hear your stories.
ity (M.Div.) Program. CRCDS
One of the most important
requires M.Div. students to
aspects of being in community
complete two semesters of Su-
together is getting to know
pervised Ministry in a church,
each other. We are in this
hospital, or similar setting. I
together! We are called to be
have been honored to be a part of your staff for this past year. During this time I have gotten to know many of you, participated in worship, attended meetings, and visited Asbury First members. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here as a student. I am still a student at CRCDS, I will finish my studies in January of 2014 and graduate in May of 2014, and though my supervised ministry time with you and that relationship ended a few months ago, I will be continuing on staff as Church Visitor. I am thrilled with this and look forward to getting to know more of you, participating in worship, visiting, and, yes, attending meetings! It is a
Christ’s body which has many Kathy Thiel, center, shares prayerful joys and concerns during a service in June as Asbury First’s Senior Minister, Rev. Susan S. Shafer, looks on.
parts. Each person is a unique
joy and a privilege to be part of
– visiting is for all! If you are
God, and we have the awe-
this vibrant community!
able to come to worship every
some opportunity to reach out
All ministers at Asbury First
Sunday, and want to make an
and get to know each other.
make visits. Visiting is a way
appointment for a visit, please
In so doing we strengthen our
of stretching out the arms
call. If you know of someone in
community, we make the world
of the church community
need of a pastoral call, please
stronger, and we brighten each
to homes, hospitals, nursing
phone the office and let the
other’s lives. Feeling God’s
homes, hospices, wherever
staff know. Joy for me comes in
presence among us is indeed a
there are members and friends
being with you and being a part
blessing to enjoy!
of Asbury First. Visiting is a
of your life.
Anyone can request a visit by
way to experience God among
God is present with us in love
calling any staff member at the
us as we sit together and talk,
and fellowship. Sharing God’s
church office 271-1050. You
laugh, cry, and share. I look
love in the community of two
may reach me by dialing exten-
forward to being with those of
or three is a great joy! Differ-
sion #112. If you are calling
you who are unable to get to
ent and various things hap-
and a staff member cannot be
church, members of the Older
pen during a pastoral visit. A
reached, we will return your
Adult Fellowship, and all those
pastoral visit can be one during
call as soon as possible. I look
in need. But you don’t have to
which you share a concern or
forward to time together with
fit in any one of these groups
a joy. Sometimes during a visit
you!
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individual called and loved by
You are cordially invited ... to learn more about stewardship MAKI NG
MINISTRY HAPPE N
Do you find
church and engage in the same conversations with fellow mem-
it hard to talk
bers and become ambassadors to our congregation.
about steward-
The seminar will be hosted by AFUMC members Kelly Meuller
ship?
and Tom Clemow and last for approximately one hour. It will be held in the Red Room of 1010 East Ave. Two sessions will be
Do you some-
times think that the church places too much (or too little)
offered:
emphasis on it?
•
Sunday August 25, 11:00 a.m. directly after the service
Are you uncertain where you fit in the big picture of stewardship
•
Thursday September 12 at 6:00 p.m.
at Asbury First, and of the important role you play in helping the
It is being billed as the “Leadership Stewardship Launch” and will
church’s ministries to grow and thrive?
be directed at the leaders among us who chair our committees,
The Stewardship Committee would like to help you answer
coordinate various functional groups, or provide directional ad-
those questions with a seminar focusing on stewardship here as
vice . The meeting is open to all who hold an interest in steward-
it applies to ourselves and our relationship to Asbury First. The
ship and the financial health of the church. We encourage your
purpose of the seminar is to engage each other in conversation
attendance and you are most welcome. Please contact Melody
about stewardship in our lives. When we increase our comfort
Guadagnino at (585) 271-1050 x103 or mguadagnino@asbury-
zone in talking to each other, we can, in turn, go out into the
•
first.org to let us know if you’d like to attend.
RAIHN at Asbury First: Can you help?
Homeless families stay on our church campus at 1010 East Avenue every 13 weeks as part of the RAIHN (Rochester Interfaith Network) program. We welcome these families—provide housing, meals and company during their stay with us. You could help with this—cook dinner for the group, welcome the families to our 1010 home, play games with the children, and keep our families company. In order to be sensitive and considerate to the families’ situation, we offer a two-hour training session for volunteers. Topics covered in the training are: • • • • • •
What RAIHN is, how it works Why there is a need for RAIHN (Community overview/scope of homelessness) Who are the families we serve Sensitivity and confidentiality concerns Hosting the families, what you need to know A video training segment with guests’ perspective
A training session for volunteers (or those interested in volunteering) is scheduled for Asbury First on Wednesday, August 21, at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to participate. Call Chris or Doug Lee to register for the volunteer training at (585) 451-7692 or Melody Guadagnino, ext. 103, at the church office (271-1050).The next Rochester Interfaith Network Week for providing a home for homeless families at Asbury First is the week of September 1-8. Can you help? Training is not an immediate requirement. Volunteers are needed: • To welcome families when they arrive each evening • To provide dinner for the families each night of their weekly stay at 1010 • To provide hospitality (visiting, playing games, doing crafts, helping with homework) • To spend the night as 1010 East Ave. serving as supervisors for the families during their weekly stay • To help out on weekends with supervision, meals and recreation If you want to be a part of this important volunteer effort, please contact Chris and Doug Lee at (585) 451-7692 or c_s_lee29@msn.com or Melody Guadagnino, ext. 103, at the church office (271-1050).
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• New leadership for youth • Mike Mullin Arrives in August
Methodist Church. His experience there played a formative role in his decision to enter youth ministry. Mike received his B.A. in Christian Education and Music (percussion) at Westminster College in New Wilmington, PA and has completed coursework towards a master of Theology degree at Creighton University in Omaha. He met his wife, Nadia, in college and in February of this year, they welcomed their “giant” son Caleb into the world (he is 23 pounds and almost six months old). Mike is an Eagle Scout and gained a great love for the outdoors through his scouting experiences, and has carried that love of the outdoors into his ministry. He worked as a ropes course constructor, inspector, and trainer for Griffin Adventures. He has taken week-long trips backpacking on the continental divide and in the Bob Marshall
Mike and wife Nadia have traveled extensively.
T
he Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) and the Youth Director Search Team are very pleased to announce that we have successfully completed our national search for the new youth director for Asbury First United Methodist Church. Mike Mullin comes to us with several years experience in youth ministry, most recently serving a church of comparable size and inclination to Asbury First in Omaha, Nebraska. After several Skype and in-person interviews with the search team, pastoral staff, youth, and the SPRC,
we feel strongly that he has the right skills to help continue in the rich tradition of youth ministry at Asbury First.
Wilderness, and has canoed down the Noire River in Quebec. Mike’s adventurous spirit can be seen in his love of whitewater kayaking, rock climbing, spelunking, and slack lining as well as in his heart for international mission to places like Vietnam and Russia. Some of Mike’s more regular pasttimes include watching movies (no, he has not yet seen Sharknado) and playing Frisbee, miniature golf, and just about any game (board or otherwise). Mike is looking forward to all of the adventures that await him at Asbury First. He and his family are excited to be joining the community in late August. There will be a welcome picnic on the lawn of the church on Tuesday, August 27 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. for all youth, grades 6-12 to come out and meet him.
Attention Youth in Grades 6-12! You are invited to welcome our new Youth Director, Mike Mullen, at a
Welcome Picnic
Mike Mullin was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana and has, since then, lived in six different states. Most recently he served as the director of youth ministries at Countryside Community Church in Omaha, Nebraska. While Countryside is a part of The United Church of Christ, Mike is no stranger to The United Methodist Church. He grew up in Wexford, Pennsylvania, where he attended Ingomar United
Tuesday, August 27 6:00-8:00 p.m. Granger Street Lawn You’ll have a chance to meet Mike and give him a warm Asbury First welcome, as well as see all your UMYF friends and re-connect after the summer. Please bring a dish to pass – we’ll supply the hamburgers and hot dogs. Don’t miss it! 9
be using the book The Rule of Benedict: A Spirituality for the 21st Century, by Joan Chittister, available on Amazon for $12.33 (Scholarships are available). To register please contact Melody Guadagnino at 271-1050 x103 or mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org.
AFUMC News, continued from page 3
•
We’ve studied Bible passages, entire books of the Bible, denominational study curriculum and current best-selling books. Come join us! Bring your ideas for a future study focus. Sunday Bible Study, starting September 15 9:45-10:45 a.m., 1050 East Ave., Teak Room In this adult Sunday school class, we will work together to broaden and deepen our knowledge and understanding of the Bible. We may look at selected verses, or a single passage or an entire book. Bring your Bible and your ideas for future studies.
Living Healthy – New! Do you have an ongoing health condition and want to take charge of your life? Then join us for Living Healthy, a six-week workshop series for adults with a chronic or limiting health condition and/or caregivers, running on Tuesdays, from Sept. 24-Oct. 9, 1:00-3:30 p.m. in the Gathering Center. You’ll look at topics such as using your mind to manage symptoms, fitness and exercise, better breathing, nutrition, making treatment decisions, depression, and working with health care professionals and health care systems. Taught by AFUMC member Mary Berk, and offered in conjunction with Lifespan, the cost is $20. Register by calling Lifespan at (585) 244-8400 x139.
Benedictine Spirituality Class –New! In this new class, you are invited into a deeper relationship with your spiritual life, sharing in community through conversation and prayer. This class will be fun and informal – readings are optional; there are no assignments. Led by Kathy Thiel, it will be held on Thursdays, Sept. 12 through Oct. 3, from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Meditation Room at 1010 East Ave. You’ll
AFUMC Book Group Starts Season on September 11 Women on Wednesday (WOW) begins its 24th year on September 11. The guest speaker for this opening meeting is Rev. Stephen M. Cady II, who will speak on reading and provide AFUMC News, continued on next page
Making Change Happen, “Peace by Piece” Festival-goers at the Park Ave. Fest in early August had the chance to contribute to world peace, without spending a dime. Asbury First’s booth featured an 8’ x 4’ puzzle montage, with images of the people and place of AFUMC, that had been turned into a giant, 1,000+ piece puzzle. Passers-by were invited to place one puzzle piece on the board, and for each piece that was placed, local businesses pledged money that will be sent to United Methodist Committee on Relief, to be used for global peace initiatives. The creative activity, a brainchild of the Visioning Committee, was a huge success, and the final, completed puzzle can now be seen in the Welcoming Hall. Special thanks goes to the sponsors for the project: Crawford Funeral Home, Inc., Thelma’s Mastectomy Boutique, Gary and Ruthellen Hoyle, F. Oliver’s Oils and Vinegars, Bella Weddings and Events, True Touch Beauty Salon and Spa, Jines Restaurant, and one anonymous donor. Nearly $1,000 was raised through the generosity of these sponsors. 10
suggestions on books for discussion. The WOW group has read numerous authors on religions and spirituality, including John Shelby Spong, Joan Chittister, Marcus Borg, Desmond Tutu, Dr. Frances Collins, Brian McLaren and Esther de Waal. The books are selected by the group, chosen by vote, with this selection process commencing this year on September 11 and continuing through September 18 and 25. Several chapters or sections of the selected book are read each week and discussed at the weekly meetings, allowing members to benefit from each others’ perspectives and interpretations. What keeps this group going? Some say that it’s “the pleasure of identifying with others who love reading and are willing to share their responses,”“the camaraderie among the members,” and “different perspectives discussed.” The invitation is open for women who enjoy reading and learning to join WOW at noon on Wednesdays in the dining room at 1010 East Avenue. The one-hour meeting time enables people to bring a bag lunch to the meeting. WOW will be represented at the church’s Together In Ministry Sunday on Septem-
ber 8. You are encouraged to stop by their table to pick up book lists and information on the group. Our first book to be discussed this year will be Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha and Mohammed Cross the Road, by Brian D. McLaren. Discussion will be led by Asbury First’s artist-in-residence, Rev. Linda Clemow.
A Few of my Favorite Things... Fall, Food, Flowers, Food, Fellowship, Food, Fundraisers, Food, Friends, Food ... As summer creeps to an end, our Fall Fundraiser Featuring Friends and Food returns for the seventh time! DINNER AMONG FRIENDS, our annual effort to raise money for the Dining and Caring Center (ADDC), is right around the corner. Hopefully, you have already signed up to host a meal, be a guest, or sponsor this important event. If not, it's never too late! Please contact Martha Tuke at 359-8944 to host a dinner or attend a dinner. Please contact Jeffrey Lamica at 507-6345 to sponsor this event. These are the details: • Hosting means you invite some guests to your home for dinner and dessert; • attending means you sign up to be a guest at one of the hosts' dinners; • sponsoring means you may or may not be able to participate at Dinner Among Friends, but that you want to show support for the ADDC by making a generous donation, in your name, your company's name, or in honor of someone. Who:
YOU!
What:
Sign-up and participate in Dinner Among Friends.
When:
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Where:
Asbury First Gathering Center at 5:00 p.m.for appetizers, beverages, and conversation, then at 6:00 p.m.depart to your host's home for the evening.
Why:
To support the Dining and Caring Center while enjoying great food, friends and fellowship
How:
Call Martha or Jeffrey now to sign-up to help support this vital outreach program.
How much: $50 donation is suggested and appreciated for this wonderful evening out. Your donation is tax exempt and the entire $50 goes directly to the ADCC. Thank you in advance for your support of the Seventh Dinner Among Friends celebrating 20 years of the Asbury Dining and Caring Center serving our community and beyond. 11
creation fear
by Rev. Linda Clemow
“ ‘Come to the edge.’ ‘We can’t. We’re afraid.’ ‘Come to the edge.’ ‘We can’t. We will fall!’ ‘Come to the edge.’ And they came. And he pushed them. And they flew.” – Guillaume Apollinaire While I was researching what the ‘experts’ had to say about making art and our fears I kept coming across systems for overcoming our fears. “Five Steps to Overcome the Fear of Art,” “Simple Steps to Eliminate Creation Anxiety,” “Why We Are Afraid to Create” … and so on. I got tired just reading all these recipes for becoming a creative person. I wrote last month about being brave and vulnerable and this month I want to write about the fear of creating. But I don’t have five simple steps or even a system. I want you to understand that everyone has this fear – even those of us who are creating all the time.
The only thing stopping you from making art is yourself .It is exhausting to lay blame everywhere. It’s not your schedule or your health, your family or your house, it’s you. Or perhaps it would be better to say it’s something in you. That something is fear. I don’t know why we have this fear. Perhaps it is because the making of art is a deeply intimate process; it is direct connection with the Divine. That is a pretty awesome connection – will it require something of us? Will we have to change? Will we be uncomfortable? Does my work have to be perfect? Am I failing God if my art is not pleasing? What if others laugh at or don’t understand my art? All these questions find their way into our consciousness and prevent us from the joy that can be found in creating. My solution to all these questions and fears is to try creating! Just try it. We are created in God’s image, God is a creating God and with
all the messiness and imperfectness in creation God still called it good! However imperfectness is not a fault. Imagine all the trees – perfectly shaped, perfectly leaved, perfectly colored: imagine the sky always a perfect blue; imagine all of us perfect little faces and bodies: BORING! God made a universe full of imperfection. It is what makes life interesting. And God endowed us with the ability to create – imperfectly, messily, happily! There are no systems, no simple steps. Just create. Join me in one of the art classes this fall. My classes are held in a safe, non-judgmental environment. We breathe deeply and allow the Spirit to calm our fears. “Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor, the enemy of the people.” – Anne Lamott in her book Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life.
Fall 2013 ArtSparks Offerings Watercolor Mondays, 1:00-3:00 p.m., September 9 through October 28 Cost: $50; Taught by Linda Clemow. This is a continuation of the class that started this spring but you may start new with us. No prior experience required.
Looking at Art Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.-noon, September 12 through October 3 Cost: $10; Taught by Linda Clemow. You need not have any experience in looking at art. We will begin with a study titled Art and Hate. This is a look at how art was used to influence Nazi Germany, Hitler’s influence on art, how the Germans stole the art of Europe and how the Monument Men saved much of this art. This will include a viewing of the movie The Rape of Europa, about the theft of the art, the attempts to hide the art and its eventual return. This class will also include a look at modern art at its earliest beginnings, and a review of the major and some not-so-major movements of the time.
Sculpey Clay Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m.-noon, September 10 through October 29 Cost: $50; Taught by Linda Clemow and Cheryl Thompson. Come and experiment with the colors, styles and techniques of working with this fun clay – make beads, boxes, embellishments. No prior experience required.
Call Linda Clemow at 236-1184 for more information and to register for classes. 12
Athletics
Sports Fellowship at Asbury First
Asbury First Bowling League Sunday, September 8, running for ten weeks 7:00-9:00 p.m. Clover Lanes, 2750 Monroe Ave., 14618 $10/person/week, Pizza and soda provided free of charge Do you love to bowl? AFUMC’s adult bowling league (17 and over) will begin its fall season soon, and we invite you to join our group for ten weeks, Sunday, September 8 through Sunday, November 9 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Clover Lanes, 2750 Monroe Ave., 14618. Cost is $10 per person,
per week, with pizza and soda available free of charge. Sign up with your team of four, or we can place you on a team. Whether you’re an expert bowler or just a beginner, this league welcomes you! How to join? Just contact RJ Pollard, rjpollard14@gmail.com or 585-643-0243 (text or call) for more info or to sign up. This past spring, our league was a huge success, and we congratulate the following on their awards: 2013 Asbury First Summer Bowling League Champions: the Justice League
2013 Asbury First Summer Bowling League High Men’s Average: Bob Pollard 2013 Asbury First Summer Bowling League High Women’s Average: Cheri Fleming Why not join us this coming fall and challenge our champions to bring their best game?
Asbury First Running Club Starting September 14 8:00-9:30 a.m. Child care available if needed. We are looking for all levels of runners to join us Saturday mornings for the ultimate mind, body, and spirit experience. Our running goal is to complete the East Avenue Grocery Run on November 2. This is a run put on by the Third Presbyterian Church that benefits Foodlink. Our spiritual goal is to be in fellowship withlike minded believers. Fellowship gives us the opportunity to strengthen our own faith while building a strong faith community. The physical goal is to be good stewards of the vessel that carries God's love and grace to others. We start running on SEPTEMBER 14 and will run every Saturday leading up to the November second 5K. We ask runners to take turns bringing refreshments for refueling after our runs. If you are interested, please e-mail Maggie Tobin at maggietobin3@gmail.com.
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R
Library news
ead a good book lately? Check out these reading possibilities. September marks the start of church school, the 11:00 a.m. church service, and the Asbury First Resource Library monthly book selections. Books for all ages and on all topics can be found in the Church Resource Library.
Children: The Beautiful World God Made, by Rhonda Gowler Greene, Anne Wilson (Illustrator). This book is the creation story from Genesis for preschool through grade 3. It is in rhymed poetry filled with lovely images. The stages of creation are illustrated in bright spreads of folk-style art. The golden sunburst of light, the star-filled cobalt skies, the multicolored fish swarming in turquoise waters, the circle of exotic animals, and the exciting abstract designs all reflect the majesty and wonder of the Earth.
of events cause her to question her faith in God and to face her fears. Her struggles and questions are met with wisdom, humor, and a positive attitude. A Little Piece of Ground, by Elizabeth Laird with Sonia Nims. A Little Piece Of Ground explores the human cost of the occupation of Palestinian lands through the eyes of a young Palestinian boy. Ages 9-12 will benefit from reading this extraordinary book about war and peace. Teens: Perfectly Unique Praising God From Head to Foot, by Annie F. Downs. This book will take you on a thoughtful, funny, and spirit-filled exploration of the way you were designed and will help you better honor the Creator by learning to value his perfectly unique creation (yourself!).
Mrs. Harkness and the Panda, by Alicia Potter, illustrations by Melissa Sweet. This book tells the little-known story of American fashion designer Ruth Harkness, who trekked through China in 1936 to bring the first live panda back to the U.S. Especially for ages 5-8, this story of Mrs. Harkness’ life—and the panda’s—speaks of bravery and determination. The Asian style watercolor landscapes are considered “breathtakingly beautiful.”
Adult: Dear and Glorious Physician: A Novel About Saint Luke, by Taylor Caldwell. This book is considered by readers as an “extraordinary piece of carefully researched and beautifully written literature. This world-famous novel is about the triumphant story of St. Luke—a man of science and writer of the third Gospel.
The Junk Yard Wonders, by Patricia Polacco. Considered an amazing book that should be read to every child, The Junk Yard Wonders tells the story of Tricia, who attends a new school and is placed in a special education class. Though the children are shunned by other members of the school community and their class is called the “junkyard,” their teacher makes them see the potential and possibilities in who they are and how they can follow their dreams (for ages 6-9).
Parenting: 365 Manners Kids Should Know, by Sheryl Eberly with Carolyn Eberly. Exercises, games, activities and other fun ways that are designed to help children and teens learn etiquette are provided in this book. It is considered “an essential tool for life, providing an awareness and respect of others.”
Youth: Something to Sing About, by C.C. Payne. This 167-page book for ages 8-11 deals with the life of a ten-year-old girl who is deathly afraid of bees. She longs for a friend and a series August 25 Luke 13:10-21 26 Hebrews 13:1-14 27 Hebrews 12:15-25 28 Psalm 8:1-16 29 Luke 9:1-17 30 Luke 14:1-14 31 Jeremiah 2:1-13 September 1 Habakkuk 2:5-20 2 habakkuk 3:1-19 3 Lamentations 2:1-22 4 Lamentations 3:1-18
5 Lamentations 3:19-39 6 Luke 17:1-10 7 Jeremiah 29:1-14 8 Lamentations 3:40-66 9 Lamentations 4:1-22 10 Lamentations 5:1-22 11 Psalm 66:1-20
12 Psalm 111:1-10 13 Luke 17:11-19 14 Deuteronomy 8:1-20 15 Exodus 17:1-16 16 Jeremiah 31:1-22 17 Jeremiah 31:23-40 18 2 Timothy 4:9-22 14
19 Psalm 119:89-104 20 Luke 18:1-8 21 Joel 1:1-20 22 Joel 2:1-17 23 Joel 2:18-32 24 Joel 3:1-21 25 Psalm 65:1-13 26 Psalm 84:1-12 27 Luke 18:9-27 28 John 15:11-27 29 Matthew 11:20-30 30 John 8:12-30 31 John 8:31-47
the last word 1 by Michele Cooley 2
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ith temperatures in the 90s and guest numbers in excess of 140 per meal, July was our busiest month in the history of the Dining and Caring Center, with 2900 meals served. Our volunteers continued to exude the warmth and energy that makes us unique. The quality of meals and attention to detail make sure that each guest feels wanted and welcome. I asked a few of our guests and volunteers to give their perspective about the Dining Center. Please keep in mind as you read that you, too, can be involved in a ministry that is God-centered and directed by love. Our contributors wanted to use their real names. My name is Darryl Jebbett. I want to thank Asbury First for the opportunity to volunteer at the Dining and Caring Center for the past eight months. I am forever grateful for the support from Michele and the volunteer church members. I have stayed sober for 10 months and my life has gotten stable and a lot better. I continue to go to church at Asbury First and by volunteering I have learned a lot about giving and living through God and the examples at the church. Thank you for the help. Chris says: I like the fellowship, the great food and talking with Michele. She is very knowledgeable and has helped me out in many ways. I have learned a lot and like coming here to start my day and passing on my knowledge to others who might need it. The bike repair
MERCURY RISING AT THE ADCC I have received here. As of today, I volunteer Tuesday through Friday and Sunday. I love the atmosphere and meeting new people and new volunteers. I also try to recruit new volunteers. This is a great place and I don’t know anywhere else that provides all of the services that the Dining Center does. I recommend for any and all to come and enjoy the great experience and services that they offer. Thank you for letting me write this.
program is great and has helped me out many times. Asbury First overall is a great place to be. I thank God for the Asbury Dining Center and the church. Recently the church helped me out with rent and because they did I was able to stay where I am, which helped with my anxiety and depression.
to my appointments. Throughout the months while I was homeless and waiting for my DSS benefits to kick in, Michele helped me look for jobs online and prepped me for interviews. When I finally got my own place I decided to come back and volunteer. I love it here. I like to prep food, serve the guests and give back for all of the help and support
Andy Mott is a volunteer who has come very far here at the Dining Center. This is his story: I, Andrew J Mott, first heard of Asbury Dining and Caring Center back in November 2012. I was homeless and staying at the Open Door Mission. I found out about the services and the hours and days they are open. I came here every day for breakfast and lunch on Wed. I loved the services they provided. Michele helped me out with a referral to go to the Storehouse and gave me a bus pass to get
Darryl, Andy and Chris are doing well today. Darryl is enrolled at SUNY Brockport and Andy at MCC. Chris is actively looking for a job. Please consider volunteering at the Dining Center. We need you. You will be surprised at how much our guests appreciate you. They need your warmth, encouragement and stability. More than this they need your hope. Feel free to contact me at any time with your questions or to sign up to volunteer, at 271-0692 or mcooley@asburyfirst.org.
Want to help make a difference at the Dining & Caring Center? Sign up to host or attend a dinner at the Seventh Annual Dinner Among Friends Fundraiser on September 28. For more information, see page 11. 15
PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
In the News
A Current Events Roundtable
Starting Sunday, September 15 9:45-10:45 a.m. Dining Room, 1050 East Ave. Why watch the Sunday morning talking heads on CNN or MSNBC when you yourself can be one? Join the panel at In the News, a new Sunday school roundtable that examines the spiritual implications of current events. Those who “appear” on In the News will find it a friendly forum for expressing personal viewpoints on diverse topics within modern social change, world history and conflicts, national politics, and local community issues. Broaden your own perspectives – and those of others – by bringing your opinions Sunday mornings to our panel. It’s safe and fun discussion with room for any and all ideas. With no commercial interruption! If you have questions about this class, please contact Kurt Mueller at kmueller@momentdriven.com.