TheVisitor
Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter November 2013 • Vol. XLVII No. 10 • www.asburyfirst.org
In This Issue On Holy Ground, 5 School #41 Update, 6 December Schedule, 7 Members Honored, 10 Miracle Garden, 12 ArtSparks, 13
The Visitor
Mission Statement
Vol. XLVII No. 10
Through worship, education, outreach, and care, we develop dis-
(USPS 558-470) is published 10 times a year, monthly with combined issues for January/February and July/August, by Asbury First United Methodist Church.
ciples of Jesus Christ who live and proclaim the Gospel and thereby work to transform our culture.
the voices of angels
Periodical postage paid at Rochester, N.Y.
A Pastoral Reflection
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 Mike Mullin Richard Moncrief Melody Guadagnino Michele Cooley Jason Franklin Mary Van Keuren Duane A. Prill 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; Assistant Organist Director of Music Co-director of Children’s Ministry Co-director of Children’s Ministry Director of Youth Ministries Financial Administrator Administrative Assistant Dining & Caring Center Director Property Care Manager Communications Director & Editor Organist Director, Children’s Music Director, Bell Choir; CoDirector, Youth Music Director, Asbury Singers Director, Youth Theater; CoDirector, Youth Music Artist in Residence
Cover: In the beginning was the Word...John 1:1. Our sanctuary, beautifully captured by Asbury First Sexton Dale Raes. Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@asburyfirst.org or (585) 271-1050 x109.
It is the Season of Angels and Shepherds … things small but mighty … a Season when the ordinary carries amazing qualities of the extraordinary … the season when God’s spoken Word comes alive in a Celebration likened to none. It is the Season when children speak with voices of wonder … excitement … anticipation … hope. My shelves of books contain a book that I have loved over the years titled What Children Know about Angels. It is entertaining, theologically thought-provoking and delightful. One young boy says: “I only know the names of two angels … Hark and Harold Angels.” And still another: “angels live in cloud houses made by God and His Son, who’s a very good carpenter.” A young woman, Tess, says so poignantly: “I heard an angel when I fell in the lake and almost drowned. At first, it sounded like ‘glub ... glub’ … . Then I knew it was saying ‘Love, Love.’” And Teresa, age 10, says: “The only thing that gets in the way of an angel delivering its message is you. If you keep on talking yourself and don’t listen, you’ll never get it!” These young people have a message for us all as the Season comes upon us. It is a season of Love and the message will never reach us if we don’t listen! There is an invitation in these young people’s understanding of angels. When the angel appeared to Mary something extraordinary happened in her life and ours. And through the Angel’s proclamation a child was to be born and through that Angel and through that gift God’s love was given in a small yet mighty gift. The ordinary rush of Advent culminating in Christmas calls each of us to the extraordinary possibility of taking time to listen … to be quieted … to be awe-struck by this miraculous gift of love. Perhaps you might find these gifts, these angel messages, in walking the labyrinth with the music of the harp accompanying that journey to the center in meditation; or in taking the time to come to the Wednesday night’s Taize services during Advent; or a quiet moment of meditation as the sun rises upon the cold earth and you begin your day in prayerful talking to God. Benton spoke about these times: “... when angels talk to God, they always say ‘Hallelujah!’ It means ‘Awesome’! Perhaps this Season of Angels and Shepherds will lead you into a deeper experience and your voice and life may say: ‘Hallelujah!’ Angels deliver messages in different ways. Sometimes it’s
Deadline for next issue: Friday, January 3
continued on page 9
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AFUMC news Spaghetti Luncheon Re-Cap
best recommendation to the church body. Congregation-wide meetings will take place in the early spring with a Charge Conference expected in the late Spring. No decisions have yet been made as to space usage or potential changes to the campus, as we are still evaluating possibilities. 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.
The annual Spaghetti Luncheon was a great success as Fellowship Hall was transformed into an Italian restaurant decorated in red, white and green. More than thirty five youth prepared and served over eighty delicious spaghetti and meatball meals to the congregation. Diners heard seven short presentations by youth on their mission experiences, and what participating in this event meant to them personally. Photos of the mission trip were shown as the youth waited upon their dinner guests, taking orders and serving meals. And to top it all off, there was a plethora of desserts: homemade cookies, brownies and cakes! People enjoyed the meal and the fellowship, and the opportunity to connect with the youth. The 2014 Mission Trip will be to Chicago, and more than $700 in ticket sales and donations was raised for this trip.
Together in Service A Successful Week Thank you to all who participated in Together in Service in October, bringing their time, talent and passion. Together with members of Baber A.M.E. Church, we served many in the city who were in need. Members of all ages: • • • • • • • •
Calling All Seniors!
•
Recently, the Older Adult Committee held a very successful fall luncheon, honoring anyone over the age of 80 in our congregation. However, it came to our attention that there may be some among us for whom the church office does not have a birthdate! If you did not receive an invitation to this event, that could be the reason. Please call the church office and let us know that you are indeed an octogenarian or older!
• • • •
Update on Space Utilization Group
painted at School 41 and Grace House, a ministry that aids those recently released from prison; served breakfast at the Salvation Army; cooked and served a harvest dinner at Hope House, a clinic run by the Salvation Army; served dinner at Genesis House, and provided snack packs for residents of Genesis House; had an ice cream social at Genesis House; Provided two afternoons of fun at St. Mary’s Adult Day Care; put together 75 bags of groceries for those in need; made hygiene kits for residents of Genesis House, Hope House and the Salvation Army; made healthy snack packs for guests of Ronald McDonald House; made “thinking of you” cards and placemats for guests of Ronald McDonald House; cooked two breakfasts and three dinners at Ronald McDonald House; baked for St. Mary’s Adult Day Care, Hope House and Ronald McDonald House; and did lots of grocery shopping to support all of those meals.
Thank you to those who brought their time, talents, experience, resources and hearts together to make a difference in the lives of others. Together, we accomplished a lot! – Barbara Eltinge.
The Ministry & Space Task Force has met weekly through the summer and fall to create possible scenarios incorporating the major themes that have emerged from our work to date. We have walked the entire campus and found much under-utilized space. We have again met with some of the major ministries on campus including the DCC and Storehouse. There are now six scenarios covering accessibility, major maintenance, and improved usage of space. There are a few “a la carte” options as well, which can be added to any of the scenarios. We are meeting with our architect to explore the possibilities in a little more detail. We anticipate meeting with a larger group, including all ministries and groups who could be affected, in late January/early February of 2014. The larger group will work through the advantages and disadvantages of each scenario and collectively determine the
Looking for Lost Members We have lost touch with some of our members. The church does not have an address for the following people: Amy Brinn, Mary Beth Craig, Robert Craig, Adam Hermon, Danielle Hermon, Greg McFarland, Kelley McFarland, Marcia Power, Alicia Price, Richard Reed, Doris Rowles, Navid Sadri, Michael Saltzer and Linda Shepard. If you have current address information for the above, please call Melody Guadagnino at 271-1050 ext. 103 or send an email to mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org.
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Homeless families celebrate Thanksgiving week at AFUMC. Join us?
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he next RAIHN (Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network) rotation at Asbury First is November 24-December 1, and volunteers are needed to make Thanksgiving special for homeless families!
As participants in the Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network (RAIHN) Asbury First provides a home for families at 1010 East Avenue every 13th week. Currently, there are four homeless families (a total of 13 people) in the RAIHN program. During the last RAIHN week at Asbury First, fifty-one volunteers came together to offer hospitality to 14 members of three separate families. Volunteers served an impressive 347.5 hours, spent making beds, playing games, cooking meals, watching movies, visiting with the families and other volunteers, cleaning, eating and laughing. If you have wanted to get involved in outreach here at Asbury First, consider becoming a RAIHN volunteer. Can you help? Volunteers are needed, especially so during this busy holiday week: • to welcome families when they arrive each evening; • to help provide dinner for the families each night of their weekly stay at 1010 East Ave.; • to provide hospitality (visiting, playing games, doing crafts, helping with homework); • to spend the night at 1010 serving as supervisors for the families during their weekly stay; and • 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).
Our Living Marriages May the blessings of God’s love go with you in your new covenant. Nicole Shull and Andrew Lucas were married October 19, 2013.
Births & Baptisms God has sealed you unto love and grace divine Hannah Rae Cady daughter of Stephen and Emily Cady, baptized on October 20, 2013. Evelyn Jane Ashley daughter of Timothy and Elizabeth Ashley, baptized on November 10, 2013.
in Community
Jacob Dean Moore son of Lindsey and David Moore, born on June 26, 2013.
We offer our prayers and sympathy to Wendy and Bob Zimbelman and family on the death of Wendy’s mother Vivian Backlund on October 25, 2013.
Deaths Merciful God, we entrust to your never-failing care and love
We offer our prayers and sympathy Lesta Wren, on the death of her husband Carl Wren who died on October 25, 2013.
We offer our prayers and sympathy to Barbara and Jeff Edwards on the death of Barb’s father Vincent Giampa who died on October 21, 2013.
We offer our prayers and sympathy the family and friends of Howard Porter who died on October 30, 2013.
We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Florence Kerr who died on October 20, 2013. 4
We offer our prayers and sympathy to Carl Talbot and Joyce Heberle on the death of their sister Arline Porter who died on November 2, 2013. We offer our prayers and sympathy Larry and Judy Smith on the death of Larry’s mother Margaret Smith on October 18, 2013. We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Richard Simpson who died on November 11, 2013.
on holy ground Created by the Center for Spiritual Life, On Holy Ground highlights opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal. The Spiritual Life Committee this year is focusing on “Listening” to God and to each other. We invite you to join us in reflecting on the following “listening” words which lead us to prayer.
The Wintering of God’s Love
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n the last day of October, four members from the Center for Spirituality traveled down to the Abbey of the Genesee. This is a monastery where an enclave of Cistercian monks live out their contemplative offices. They support themselves by the baking of their wellknown Monks Bread. Our visit to the Abbey was with the expectation of encountering the “Divine” within the Abbey’s regularly scheduled Vesper service. What we encountered instead was Eucharist worship complete with homily. It was then that I realized that we were being blessed to celebrate All Saints’ Eve in holy worship with the monks. The homily, based on Romans 8, was crafted around these words of Paul: If God is for us, who is against us? For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. The homelist left in our care two compelling
was as if the altar of nature had been stripped in preparation for its Easter coverings of resurrection. I came to realize that the starkness of the trees was their entrance into the Advent time of nature, during which roots grow and buds are set.
truths: First, that God’s love for us is enduring and eternal. Second, that human confidence and security in the eternality of God’s love is a lifelong process of striving to know and accept the truth that each of us is enwrapped in this very love of God. As I reflected on these ideas during the Eucharist service, I experienced an epiphany in which it dawned on me with great clarity that the car ride from Clarkson to the Abbey was itself the sermon. It was amazing to us that the passing countryside had so quickly changed from autumnal brilliance of gold, orange, brown and red. All had changed to the gray, naked, drabness of winter. And while the sermon was yet unfolding, I was sent back into contemplative reflection of the drastically changed landscape that had ushered us to the Abbey. I realized that the descriptors of “gray, naked, and drab” in no way conveyed the truth of the countryside in winter dress. Rather, what we had seen was the earth and trees now bare, and waiting in open candor, looking to the time when they would be adorned anew with the splendor of spring. It 5
Might we also claim for ourselves this same Advent posture in which we experience the love of God within a continual process of spiritual growth; an unfolding where our understanding of our rootedness in Divine Grace is ever expanding, and new buds of promise are set in our relationship with God and in ministry. The trees in winter dress remind us of how essential and dynamic this winter time of contemplation, anticipation, waiting, and preparation become as we move into advent and Christmastide. The true message of the wintering of the earth and trees in their bareness, nakedness, and drabness, is God himself nurturing the life deep within them. It is preparation for the glorious explosion of springtime: blossoms and fruiting that will surely come again. If God be for us, who or what can be against us?
Labyrinth & Taize
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See page 7 for the full list of labyrinth and Taize times during Advent.
Outreach news Update on School #41
L
ast spring and early this fall, the Asbury First community was asked to participate with donations for field trips (spring) and school supplies (fall). To bring you up to date: most, but not all, classes went on end-of-year field trips. All children who went on the field trips were supported with $10 each for bus transportation, given generously by you! One group went to Mendon Ponds in support of their study of birds of prey. Another enjoyed the new African Safari display at the zoo, this in support of their study of wild animals. A third group went to the Genesee Country Museum, learning about and participating in activities of the life-style of eighteenth century county residents. This fall, we filled my car with school supplies, most welcomed by children and teachers alike. Asbury First members continue to bring me school supplies on a regular basis. Thanks to all who keep the children and the needs of School #41 in their thoughts. Volunteers for this school year total 27! Most impressive! On any given day, were you to drop in at school you would find Asbury First tutors in many classrooms. Our volunteers look forward to their commitment of one hour a week, and the children look forward to the special time they have a volunteer in their room!
As we move toward the holidays, 20 families at School #41 will receive food bags from us at Christmas. It has become a tradition for the children of Asbury First to bring canned goods, cereals and other nonperishables to fill the 20 bags. Our budget allows us to add a canned ham and a game for each family.
her feet financially, the children did better in school. The following quote hangs on a plaque on her wall: “100 years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove, but that the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.” I believe this to be at the heart of our volunteers at School #41. I believe we are making a difference in the life of a child.
We have also purchased licenses for the teachers to enable them to use the RAZ (Reading A to Z) program. This program is an online tutoring program which reads to children, then assists them in reading the same story they have just heard and finally, tests them on their comprehension. It is a widelyacclaimed program which boasts improved reading skills across the board. Donations throughout the year and from the Joy of Christmas Giving program allow us to assist with programs such as RAZ. Without these generous gifts we would not be able to support the school in this way. Thanks again to each of you who so generously give to School #41, now in its eighth year making a difference for many students!
For your prayers, love and support, thank you. –Nancy S. Davidow, School #41 Project Coordinator
Students from School #41 are transfixed by their meeting with Denda, one of the Bornean orangutans at the Seneca Park Zoo. They had been studying wild animals at school as part of their curriculum.
Christmas for Storehouse Kids YOU can help make Christmas a little brighter for a needy boy or girl this year. The Storehouse will be collecting toys and games on two Sundays: December 8 and 15. Bring your unwrapped gifts to the Gathering Center on those dates, and help bring a smile to the face of a child during this blessed season. Our preferred donations are new toys, toys, and more toys!
I recently read a story of a generous social worker who shared her home with a single mom and her two children. The loving home environment changed the lives of the mom and her children; the mom was able to get back on 6
• A look ahead • ❆ Labyrinth
to December’s Advent Activities ❆ Caribbean Christmas Mass
Wed., December. 4, 11, 18 5:00-7:00 p.m. Walking the labyrinth is a time for reflection, hope, and peace, a time to slow down to receive the message God has for you.
Sunday, December 22 3:00 p.m. For more information, see page 12.
❆ Christmas Eve Tuesday, December 24 Service of Carols and Holy Communion 12:00 noon Organ, harp, and voice.
❆ Taizé Wed., December 4, 11, 18 6:30 p.m. This contemplative service is a short pause in your day that offers an opportunity for reflection, rest, and the beauty of silence and peaceful music.
Service for Families and Children 4:00 p.m. Choral and handbell music and a pageant.
❆ Amadeus Chorale Concert
Service of Word, Candlelight, Lessons & Carols 7:00 p.m. Choral, handbell, and instrumental music.
Friday, December 6 7:00 p.m. For more information, see page 11.
Service of Word, Candlelight, and Holy Communion 9:00 p.m. Instrumental and vocal music with Communion.
❆ Advent’s Winter Wonder Night (for children and families) Sunday, December 8 5:00-7:00 p.m. Come join us for dinner, fellowship, and storytelling as we take in the warmth of our beautiful chancel.
Service of Word, Candlelight, Lessons, & Carols 11:00 p.m. Choral, handbell, and instrumental music.
❆ Christmas Day
❆ A Service of Remembrance
Wednesday, December 25 Traditional Service 10:00 a.m. Word and special music (this will be the only service on Christmas day).
Sunday, December 8 3:00 p.m. A candlelight meditative service of word, music, and communion, with the lighting of the remembrance candles.
❆ New Year’s Eve
❆ A Winter’s Night Concert
Tuesday, December 31 Communion and Meditation 4:00-6:00 p.m. Come and go as you wish. Labyrinth available 4:006:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 15 3:00 p.m. For more information, see page 16.
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Stewardship news
We’re almost there ... It’s True! We’re closing in on our pledge drive goal for 2014. But there’s still time for you to get your pledge in and take a leadership role in ensuring that Asbury First’s ministries of education, worship, outreach and membership care remain strong and vibrant for the coming year.
2014 Stewardship Pledge Drive To continue Christ’s work, I/we offer this gift of financial support to the annual operating budget for 2014: My/our estimate of giving for 2014 is_______________________ per month for 12 months = $
total
OR $_______________________ per
(week, day, etc.)= $_
OR increase last year's gift by
Campaign Status as of November 13 Pledges received: 356 New pledges: 35 Total amount pledged: $835,762 Our monetary goal: $1,083,000
_ total percent
The Power of a Dollar Approximately 800 friends and members of Asbury First give to the church each year, although not all of them pledge (roughly 550 do). If all these people were to add a pledge of one dollar per week in addition to what they already give, this would mean an additional $41,600 per year. This amount, just a small increase for each individual, would go far to support our ministries. Outreach programs such as the Dining and Caring Center and URWell Clinic, would be able to feed and care for more people in the coming year. Services could continue to feature music from some of Rochester’s most outstanding musicians. We would be able to continue printing bulletins, and sending The Visitor to all our friends each month. All because each of you gave an additional one dollar a week! It might seem like a drop in the bucket, but each of those drops contributes something vital toward filling up the life of our church, so that we can brim over with the joy of ministry to our members, and and to all in God’s kingdom.
In addition, I/we offer a designated gift of $__________________________________________ to be used for _________________________ If you would like envelopes, please indicate your preference. ❑ monthly ❑ weekly Are you interested in electronic funds transfer? ❑ yes (If yes, we will contact you) Total estimated gift for 2014 $ Name(s): Address: email:
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Bookstore Purchases Bring Books to Asbury First’s Resource Library
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hether you read your books in hardback or on a piece of computer hardware, getting a book as a gift is a real treat. And who doesn’t give or receive at least one book each year as a Christmas present? The Asbury First Resource Library is hoping that you love to give books, games, toys, movies and music for the holidays. That’s because for the third year in a row the Library Committee is holding a book fair at Barnes & Noble in Pittsford to raise money to buy books. The idea is simple: members of the Asbury First community are invited to do their shopping at Barnes & Noble any time on Monday, December 2, and identify themselves as being with Asbury First or participating in the book fair. The cashiers will automatically count a percentage of those purchases toward our fundraiser. Nearly everything in the store counts, including Nook devices, food and drink in the store’s café, and Vera Bradley gifts. A few purchases won’t count toward our fundraiser, such as software, Nook downloads, memberships, and video games. If you buy a gift card during the book far, it won’t count toward our total, but if you already have one and want to spend it, that will count. Feel free to use your B&N membership or educator ID to get your usual discounts. Need another reason to come to the store that day? How about these in-store activities: 11:00 a.m. – Children’s story time with Director of Youth Ministries Mike Mullin. 1:00 p.m. – Children’s story time with members of the Asbury First Library Committee. 5:00 p.m. – Children’s craft time. 7:00 p.m. – Asbury First Bell Choir. Can’t make it? You can still participate online from December 2-7 by visiting www.bn.com/bookfairs and giving this code (11221520) when prompted at the checkout. Or you can go to any Barnes and Noble around the country on Dec. 2 and present the code at checkout, explaining that you’re participating in a book fair in Rochester, NY. For more information, contact Diana Carter at blueloon@rochester.rr.com or (585) 473-1187, or stop by the library, located on the first floor of the education wing of 1040 East Ave. Pastor’s Reflection, continued from page 2
just a letter you get under your pillow, signed “Love, God.” Some of the lazier angels just throw the message down and make gravity do all the work.”
A fresh new trust for all whose faith is dim. The love of life, God’s precious gift in reach of all; Seeing in each day the seeds of the morrow,
However the angels speak to you this Advent and Christmas Season, they will speak if we open our hearts and listen. It would be my prayer for all of us that we be renewed through the preciousness of this Season of Love and pray the prayer of Howard Thurmond:
Finding in each struggle the strength of renewal, Seeking in each person the face of my brother or sister, I place these gifts on my altar this Christmas; Gifts that are mine, as the years are mine.”
“I place these gifts on my altar this Christmas;
May it be so! Amen
Gifts that are mine, as the years are mine.
,
The quiet hopes that flood the earnest cargo of my dreams;
Rev. Susan S. Shafer
The best of all good things for those I love. 9
• Members honored for Service •
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United Methodist Women Award Service Pins to Six AFUMC members
served on the worship work area committee and has been a trustee of the church. Well known for his carpentry skills, he is the creative force behind set design for our church plays.
n Sunday, November 3, Asbury First’s Roudebush Circle of the United Methodist Women awarded mission recognition pins to six members who have dedicated much time and effort in mission service and the spreading of the Gospel. Here are just a few of the reasons why each was commended.
• Bob Schuman
a thirty-year member of Asbury First, Bob has held • Elizabeth Church numerous leadership roles at Left to right: Bob Schuman, Robyn Gage, Rick Kuempel, Jerry Svoboda, ElizaElizabeth is a life-long the church. He chaired the beth Church, and Beth Woolever. member of AFUMC, who has Vision 2000 group and lay participated in church music groups since she was a youth.She personnel committee; he has thrice been president of the currently shares her musical skills as director of the Asbury trustees, and has also been a member of the investment, Ringers and as co-director, with Larry Dugan, of the youth planned giving, and stewardship committees. He serves as a music program. Elizabeth has traveled widely with mission Stephen Minister and is active during our annual Together in groups, including trips to Project Chacocente, Nicaragua, Service week. Somehow, Bob also finds time to co-chair the and Miracle Garden Tsunami Children’s Home in India. She gardening committee, work with a hospitality team on Sunday has spearheaded numerous fundraising projects for these and mornings, and help with the Grocery Bag Ministry. other outreach efforts. • Dr. Jerry Svoboda, M.D.
• Robyn Gage
Jerry’s first medical mission trip took place in 1998 when he traveled to the Peruvian Amazon with his family. From 2000 until 2012, Jerry was associated with Medical Ministry International (MMI), serving as a general surgeon for the organization, with which he has made 17 trips to the Dominican Republic. (Several Asbury First members have accompanied him.) Another MMI trip was with family to Ecuador. A colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, he served three months as a combat surgeon in Iraq in 2007 and in the same capacity for three months in Afghanistan in 2010.
Robyn has played a leadership role in many mission opportunities at Asbury First. She has traveled to Miracle Garden Tsunami Children’s home with her daughter, Emily, carrying suitcases of vitamins and has been to Chacocente numerous times. She is, in fact, chair of the board of directors of Project Chacocente, and works tirelessly on behalf of the families in Managua who are being helped. Closer to home, Robyn is involved in other volunteer activities, such as creating the beautiful costumes each year for the youth musical.
• Beth Woolever
• Rick Kuempel
A life-long Methodist, Beth has traveled twice to the Middle East as a member of Christians Witnessing for Palestine. Closer to home, she is one of the founders of the Asbury First Resource Library, and volunteers regularly with RAIHN, Altar Guild, Roudebush Circle of the U.M.W., the URWell Clinic, and her Covenant Group.
Rick has had a hand in many Asbury First projects. He joined our congregation when he met church members while working with Habitat for Humanity; he has continued to work for this organization. He’s a member of both the Sanctuary Choir, the Monday Morning Crew, and the Asbury First Orchestra. Rick has also 10
Comfort and Joy Amadeus Chorale and Asbury First UMC Present
Friday, December 6 7:00 p.m. Asbury First Sanctuary $5 at the door or on www.showtix4u.com
The vibrant young singers of Amadeus Chorale, with guest artists Lyric Arts Academy Strings, presents holiday classics including Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, Vivaldi’s Gloria, Rutter’s Shepherd’s Pipe Carol, along with new settings of beloved Christmas favorites. The chorus will also interpret their new arrangement of Over the Rainbow with American Sign Language.
November 24 Psalm 93:1-5 25 Luke 18:28-43 26 Isaiah 2:1-22 27 Romans 13:1-14 28 Luke 17:20-37 29 1 Chronicles 15:25-16.7 30 Luke 5:1-16 December 1 Luke 1:1-25 2 Zechariah 9:1-17 3 Isaiah 11:1-16 4 Psalm 72:1-20 5 Romans 15:1-13 6 Matthew 3:1-12 7 Leviticus 19:1-19 8 Ezekiel 34:11-31 9 James 1:1-27 10 James 2:1-26
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
James 3:1-18 James 4:1-17 James 5:1-20 Isaiah 35:1-10 Matthew 11:1-19 Proverbs 3:1-20 Titus 1:1-16 Titus 2:1-15 Titus 3:1-15 Romans 1:1-17 Matthew 1:18-25 Isaiah 8:5-18 Isaiah 8:19-9:7 Luke 2:1-14
25 John 1:1-14 26 Acts 6:1-15 27 Hebrews 2:1-18 28 Hebrews 3:1-19 29 Isaiah 52:1-12 30 Isaiah 63:1-14 31 Luke 2:15-21 January 1 Hebrews 1:1-14 2 Hebrews 2:1-18 3 Hebrews 3:1-19 4 Matthew 1:1-17 5 Matthew 1:18-25 6 Matthew 2:1-12
Scripture reading suggestions courtesy of the American Bible Society, www.americanbible.org.
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7 Matthew 2:13-23 8 Matthew 3:1-17 9 Matthew 8:1-17 10 Matthew 8:18-34 11 Matthew 9:1-17 12 Matthew 9:18-38 13 Matthew 10:1-15 14 Matthew 10:16-31 15 Matthew 10:32-42 16 Matthew 11:1-19 17 Matthew 11:20-30 18 Matthew 16:13-28 19 John 17:1-26 20 Acts 6:1-15 21 Acts 7:1-34 22 Acts 7:35-8:3 23 Acts 8:4-25 24 Acts 8:26-40 25 Acts 9:1-25
Glenn McClure’s
Caribbean Christmas Mass Featuring The Irondequoit Chorale and Panloco Steel Drum Band directed by Eric Trumpowky Sunday, December 22 ~ 3:00 p.m. Asbury First Sanctuary
Come join the Irondequoit Chorale and the Panloco Steel Drum Band for an unforgettable island -flavored musical celebration of Christmas! Tickets: $10/$8 seniors ($12/$10 at the door); available at Cooper Deli (12 Cooper Rd., Rochester, 14617), or call 266-5018. For more information, check out the Irondequoit Chorale’s website at www.theirondequoitchorale.org.
YOU Can Make a Difference to the Children of Miracle Garden “I tell you this: anything you did for one of my brothers here, however humble, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
T
he Vision of Miracle Garden Tsunami Children’s Home and School is to better the lives of orphan children born into poverty and despair in Tamil Nadu, India. Miracle Garden is a place of love where children receive an education that can provide a new life. The education provided at Miracle Garden School rivals or exceeds other quality private schools in the area. With certified, college-educated teachers, the children are surpassing their area school peers. The school owes its 60 percent self-financed status to the small tuition paid by the 174 village children who attend from nine different villages. Sixty-four children also pay for transportation, provided by the two Miracle Garden vans. Thirty-two of the orphans who live at Miracle Garden Children’s Home attend the Miracle Garden School while six go outside to a government school for upper grades not provided at MG.
tion will provide the cost of two uniforms, one “sports uniform” and the needed shoes and belt. A $65 donation will provide chicken and eggs to the kids for one week. And $22 a week will provide an apple or orange for every orphan. A wonderful way to show your support year round is to sponsor a child for a year at only $30 a month.
One way Asbury First supports Miracle Garden is through our annual “Joy of Christmas Giving” campaign. Your contribution can be used to support an individual child, for the orphans in general, or for the school. A $30 Christmas donation will provide one orphan with a few small gifts, a set of new clothes and three special meals on Christmas Day. A $50 Christmas dona-
Your gifts and prayers for Miracle Garden go far to help these children have a high quality diet, learn self care, like brushing their teeth and bathing, and receive a great education. It is with joy in our hearts that we remember and support this mission, at Christmas and all year. – Elizabeth Church 12
From Chaos to Beaut y
by Rev. Linda Clemow
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n January I will be offering a course called ‘Fabulous Fiber Fusion’. This is one of my favorite techniques for creating art. I use unusual fabrics and fibers that are piled high on my work tables. Some I have prepared by painting, some by dyeing, others are printed on. There are threads of all colors and yarns, natural wool roving and things called tussie mussies. There are gossamer fibers thin as spider webs that shimmer in an amazing array of colors. There are other objects and fabrics that you may not think of as art materials: Tyvek (yes, the stuff they wrap houses in during construction), and copper wire – just about anything you can find lying around has potential. All of this is in chaotic piles in the studio.
The next step is to enhance the wabi-sabi (a Japanese aesthetic centered on the beauty of transience, incompleteness and imperfection) of the materials. I melt
five barbed needles, punches into the yarns and threads until they are held together. The netting is no longer visible except for some black lines that can be removed if the artist so desires. I do not remove these threads as they are a reminder of an understructure that holds the beauty together.
them, burn holes in them, and fuse them together. I watch their natural properties distort into intriguing shapes and colors. The surprise always lies in their reaction to the distressing techniques. They change from something ordinary into shapes and colors unimagined in their ordinariness. Sometimes I sew them together, but not in typical sewing techniques (sensing a pattern here?) I free-motion sew. My hands
guide the materials and threads in random patterns that enhance the lines and colors of the distressed materials. I also have a machine called an embellisher. It looks like a sewing machine, but doesn’t sew in the traditional way. In this technique the threads and yarns are sandwiched between layers of black netting. The netting holds the piece together while the embellisher machine, with its
Many of the processes I use for fabric fusion are violent. The materials are burned, melted, punched and pulled, but as I move through the art process the materials are bound together. For me these processes echo the processes of life: we are ‘punched’ and ‘pulled,’ burned and melted, and at times it hurts, but the result is something quite beautiful. I invite those interested to join me on Mondays in the studio to learn this art of fabulous fiber fusion. The class will be afternoons from 1:00-3:00 p.m., satarting January 27. The cost is $60 for 8 weeks. Call Linda Clemow at 236-1184 to register.
Y Asbury Day Care Center Annual Wreath Sale Z
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t’s a donation and decoration all in one! Asbury Day Care Center is pleased to offer fresh holiday wreaths
from Clover Nursery and Garden Center again this year. The Annual Wreath Sale will be held before and after each service on Sunday, December 8. A pre-order, pre-pay option is available. Call 461-2920 (the Day Care office) to reserve a wreath. All proceeds will benefit the classrooms at the Center. The teachers, parents, and children of Asbury Day Care Center greatly appreciate your joining us in this effort. Thank you! Z 13
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Library news
ecember at the library features books on the Christmas season. Join us to explore Christmas and books for all ages. The library is ALWAYS open. Take a look at the following books available for children, young adults and adults. The library is located just off the Welcoming Hall near the elevators. The Spiritual Life Library is in the Meditation Room at 1010 East Avenue. Everyone is welcome!
Children: Hark! A Christmas Sampler, by Jane Yolen, illustrations by Tomi de Paolo. Filled with delightful holiday illustrations and Christmas tales.
Advent and Christmas from Henri J. M. Nouwen: Daily Scripture and Prayers. A guide to a spiritual journey through Advent and Christmas of waiting, hope, and celebration. (In the Spiritual Life Library in 1010 East Avenue)
The Most Important Christmas, by James H. Nelesen. This colorful 32-page book, especially for ages 4-8, helps with the understanding of the real meaning of Christmas.
While We Wait: Living the Questions of Advent, by Mary Lou Redding. Published by Upper Room Books, it has weekly readings and group session plans. (In the Spiritual Life Library in 1010 East Avenue)
The Christmas Crib that Zack Built, by Carol S. Wedeven. Using poetry and rhyme, the author tells the birth of Jesus Christ using the pattern of “This Is the House That Jack Built.”
The Mood of Christmas and Other Celebrations, by Howard Thurman. Meditations of hope, celebration, love, compassion, and blessing of the Christmas season. (In the Spiritual Life Library in 1010 East Avenue)
Child of Bethlehem, by Elena Pasquali. Ages 3-5 will hear the story of the Nativity told through the eyes of the children of Bethlehem.
Parenting Section: God is in the Small Stuff for Your Family, by Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz. A part of the God is in the Small Stuff series, this book was designed for busy parents who are short on reading time.
Teens: Life Strategies for Teens, (158McG) by Jay McGraw. Life Strategies for Teens is a guide to teen life that doesn’t tell what to do, or who to be, but rather how to live life best.
Offering the Gospel to Children, by Gretchen Wolff Pritchard. Gretchen Wolff Pritchard shows how to offer the gospel imaginatively to children.
The Book Thief, (YA, F, ZUZ) by Marcus Zusak. Zusak’s unforgettable story is about the ability of books to feed the soul and is cited as “one of the most enduring stories of our time.”
Not Christmas selections, but additions that you are sure to enjoy: David and Goliath, (155.24 GLA) by Malcolm Gladwell. In his latest bestseller, Gladwell probes the often deceptive contests between giants and apparent underdogs.
The Fault in Our Stars, (YA GRE) by John Green. Winner of the 2013 Children’s Choice Teen Book of the Year Award and the TIME Magazine’s #1 Fiction Book of 2012, it explores “ the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.”
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent and Lead, (158, BRO) by Brené Brown. Based on twelve years of research, Dr. Brown challenges everything we think we know about vulnerability.
Adult: Advent and Christmas of Thomas Merton. Some of Merton’s writings on Advent and Christmas are in this book in a day-by-day format, paired with a scripture passage and a daily prayer. (Located in the Spiritual Life Library in 1010 East Avenue)
worship schedule WORSHIP
Sunday Service Times 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 November 24 Thanksgiving Sunday Luke 23:33-43 Rev. Stephen M. Cady II, preacher Sunday December 1 First Sunday of Advent Isaiah 2:1-5 Kathy Thiel, preacher
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, (FIC, JOY) by Rachel Joyce. This story of faith, fidelity and redemption, is about the wonderful everyday things discovered through the mere process of putting one foot in front of the other. Sunday December 8 Second Sunday of Advent Isaiah 11:1-10 Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher Remembrance Service at 3:00 p.m.
Sunday December 29 First Sunday after Christmas Matthew 2:13-23 Rev. Lawrence Hargrave, preacher
Sunday December 15 Third Sunday of Advent Matthew 11:2-11 Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher
Sunday January 5 Epiphany Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher
Sunday December 22 Fourth Sunday of Advent Matthew 1:18-25 Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher
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Sunday January 12 Baptism of the Lord Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher For details on holiday services, please see page 7.
the last word 1 by Michele Cooley 2
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t was Christmas Eve 2011 and a few guests were sleeping in chairs or resting in the computer room. It was quiet, and at noon one young man was asleep on the bathroom floor. I announced that I would be attending the service next door. It was cold out and icy. Many places were closed for the holidays. “Its okay to stay here while I go to the service and you are welcome to attend. I offered. A young couple decided they would accompany me but most opted for sleeping at the Dining Center where it was warm and the coffee was freshly brewed. After the service I invited some of our guests to have sandwiches and snacks in the gathering space. Ryan was hesitant. He smelled and was unkempt with a long beard and disheveled hair, big boots, and ill fitting camoflage outfit. “I won’t fit in. The congregation is all dressed up.” “Don’t worry,” I encouraged. “This is Christmas Eve. Everyone fits in here and there is plenty of food.” He acquiesced and seemed to enjoy the little sandwiches and fruit plate and cookies. He kept to himself, was polite and left rather quickly. Ryan left to go panhandling. I wished him a Merry Christmas knowing that it would be a sad one for him. Heroin had stolen his education, family, soul and nearly his life. It had not taken his
Home for the Holidays lowing days, Ryan’s sister, brotherin-law, father and brother-in-law’s mother all stopped in with presents for Ryan. It was obvious that they still cared. Each left crestfallen and depressed at the situation. The winter dragged on and in June Ryan stopped coming to the Dining Center. I hoped for the miracle of recovery for him but was unsure of what had transpired. Then a few weeks ago an unrecognizable Ryan happened to be passing by. He looked for my car and came in to say hello.
compassion or intelligence and passion for music – specifically piano, for which he has a true gift. Over the past few years I had made referrals to rehab programs, provided transportation and even stopped occasionally to give him a few dollars when it was bitter cold and I saw him on his street corner. I knew I shouldn’t have done this but he was freezing and forlorn. The winter evenings and impending nights were very long.
to watch this deterioration of a young man with so much to offer. His family did not give up on him. We did not give up on him here at Asbury First. One by one his family members would come to the Dining Center looking for Ryan. When his mother came in one day with presents for him there was not dry eye in the dining room. “Is that his mother?” one guest asked. “This is really heartwarming. It was a true gift for us to see this.”
Christmas 2012 brought a similar situation. Ryan looked worse than ever but a trip to the Asbury First Storehouse and a shower helped a lot. It was heartbreaking
Many related that they wished they could have a visit from a family member. During the fol15
“I can’t believe how many people you see here at the Dining Center,” he said. “You never gave up on me. I don’t know how you do this day after day, month after month. I am clean and sober for six months now. I owe a lot to you and your volunteers. I went on a cruise to Alaska with my entire family this summer and have been helping my father doing survey work. My mother and I are refinishing furniture and selling at the Public Market. They took a real chance letting me back in the house but for now I am doing well. I will stop by and visit again and I will will be safe and secure and finally at my home for the holidays.” Thank you and Merry Christmas to all of our volunteers who dedicate their time and compassion to all of our guests. For many we are their home for the holidays.
PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
Concentus Women’s Chorus Presents a Holiday Concert
“A Winter’s Night”
Sunday, December 15, 2013 3:00 p.m. Asbury First Sanctuary Suggested donation: $10/$5 student at the door.
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oin us for a performance of carols and anthems that explore the mystery and joy of the Christmas season and the stark beauty of winter. Directed by Asbury First member Gwendolyn Hall Gassler, Concentus is known for its blended tone quality and expressive interpretation of choral literature spanning over six centuries. The concert repertoire includes imaginative settings of familiar carols as well as recently composed anthems. The audience is invited to visit with the musicians at a post-concert reception in the Gathering Space.
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