TheVisitor
Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter December 2015 • Vol. XLIX No. 10 • www.asburyfirst.org
In This Issue Advent Schedule, 4 Basketball Road Trip, 6 Stress Reduction, 6 TOPS Weight Loss, 8
Fall Festival & Hoedown Good Times on the Granger Street Lawn
New Members, 9 Hoedown, 10 City Sing, 16
Mission Statement
The Visitor
Through worship, education, outreach, and care, we develop disciples of Jesus Christ who live and proclaim the Gospel and thereby work to transform our culture.
Vol. XLIX No. 10 (USPS 558-470) is published 10 times a year, monthly with combined issues for November/December and July/August, by Asbury First United Methodist Church.
Five Ways to Worship at Asbury First
Periodical postage paid at Rochester, N.Y.
Our church goal this year: we commit to attending worship on Sundays as often as possible and inviting a friend to worship with us.
POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to Asbury First UMC Visitor 1050 East Ave. Rochester, N.Y. 14607-2239 (585) 271-1050
Traditional Worship in our Sanctuary 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday mornings
Staff
Chancel Worship with Holy Communion 10:00 a.m. Sunday mornings
The Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady II Senior Minister Kathy Thiel Minister for Pastoral Care and Outreach Katie O’Hern Minister for Discipleship and Mission David Strong Music Administrator; Assistant Organist Dr. William Weinert Director of Music Paula Dugan Children’s Ministry Director Holly Temming Children’s Ministry Assistant; Interim Director, Children’s Music Mike Mullin Youth Minister Summer Sattora Ministry Intern Richard Moncrief Financial Administrator Melody Guadagnino Administrative Assistant Ken Carr Property Care Manager Michele Cooley Dining & Caring Center Director Mary Van Keuren Communications Director Duane Prill Organist Carol Lamica Director, Youth Music Elizabeth Church Director, Bell Choir Brian Bohrer Director, Asbury Singers Larry Dugan Director, Youth Theater Linda Clemow Artist-in-Residence
Listen on WYSL 1040 AM or 92.1 FM 11:00 a.m.-noon Sunday mornings Watch live at www.asburyfirst.org 11:00 a.m. Sunday mornings Watch past services in our video archive at www.asburyfirst.org any time!
INCLUSIVITY STATEMENT Asbury First United Methodist Church prayerfully strives to live in its community with open hearts, open minds, and open doors. Affirming that each person is of sacred worth, we seek to be a fully inclusive church, believing that all people are God’s children, created in God’s image, loved and blessed equally by God. It is our purpose to be a Reconciling Congregation. This means extending hospitality and encouraging full participation of all, regardless of age, race, national origin, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marital status or family structure, education or economic background, and physical or mental ability. We recognize that we hold a variety of opinions. We do not seek to erase our differences, but to journey together in faith toward greater understanding and mutual respect. We believe that reconciliation to God and to one another is central to our mission and ministry.
Emeriti Staff Rev. Dr. Theodore Weeden, Sr., Pastor Emeritus Dr. Roger Wilhelm, Director of Music Emeritus Marian R. Craighead*, Organist Emeritus *deceased
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Unless otherwise noted, photos are by Greg Francis.
To receive our email newsletters, with news of upcoming services, classes, and other events at Asbury First, go to www.asburyfirst.org and scroll to the bottom of the home page, where you’ll see a sign-up window. Or, if you have a smartphone, scan this QR code to take you directly to a sign-up page.
Cover: Elizabeth and Rick Church dance down the row at the Asbury First Fall Festival and Hoedown in October. More pics on page 10. Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@asburyfirst.org or (585) 271-1050. Deadline for next issue: Monday, January 4
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’Tis the Season
A Pastoral Reflection
Advent is a season of preparation. While we typically think of it as preparation for Christmas, it is actually the time set aside in the liturgical calendar year when we prepare for the coming kingdom of God — for the time when God’s hope for the world is finally realized and we live as Christ commanded. Given the state of the world, we are going to need some prep work if we are going to get there. Fortunately, we have a head start. This is a year of preparation. All fall as a church we have been dreaming together about who we are and who God is calling us to
be. We know the ultimate vision — the same one Jesus shared with his disciples — a world in each and every person knows that they are beloved of God. Our job is to dream our way there. In other words, we have already begun preparing for the kingdom of God — one dream at a time.
around us. Let’s lift our voices. Here’s a dream: that the city of Rochester comes together for something beautiful, something hopeful, something peaceful. To that end, the vision team of Asbury First has an idea. After a hard year, we are inviting anyone and everyone in the city of Rochester and its surrounding regions to come together on the afternoon of December 20 at the Public Market at 4:00 p.m. for what we are calling a “City Sing” for peace. So far, Third Presbyterian, Mt. Olivet, Temple B’rith Kodesh, St. Paul’s Episcopal, Historic Parsells Church, and several others have agreed to rally their congregations to this end, but all are invited. We will sing songs of Christmas, of
The dream board is filling up. As I look at the ideas shared, as I read emails, as I replay conversations, I am struck by our hopefulness as a congregation. After so much transition, after a year filled with such harsh news in our community and world, one would expect to find a defeated people, but the opposite is true here. We are a people looking with hope toward the future. Now it is time to share some of that hope with the community
AFUMC news
Asbury First Supports School #9 Recently, the Outreach Committee approved the funding for blazers for students at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School in Rochester. This school gives at-risk young men the support they need to learn and be successful. The blazers were welcomed by these young men, and each of them wrote a personal letter of thanks to Asbury First. This generous gift has already made a difference in their young lives.
Hanukkah, of Kwanzaa, all in the name of peace. Please mark your calendar, bring your candle, and plan to join us. Be prepared. The challenges of our world can easily overwhelm us and we can convince ourselves that we are too insignificant to make a difference, but that is not what Advent is about. Advent is a season which asks us to prepare for our love to work. It is a season that reminds us that no matter how insurmountable the challenges of this world seem, the kingdom of God is never far away. We can make a difference in this world, but we have to do it one relationship at a time. ’Tis the season! Grace and Peace,
Stephen Cady
Habitat House at 57 Ries Street is Being Built! The Roger Cross Memorial House (Roger Cross was the founder of the Flower City Chapter of Habitat for Humanity) sponsored by the Harvest Home Coalition (which includes AFUMC) has begun. Our participation continues Asbury First’s 25+ year involvement with Habitat. We have had 16 people volunteer from Asbury First at the site – more are needed. To sign up, go to www.rochesterhabitat.org – “Volunteer” – “Online Volunteer” and follow the instructions. Register as a new volunteer. Then go to the calendar and sign up under “Harvest Home” or “House Building”. For more information contact John Smalt at 924-8624 or jhsmalt@gmail.com.
• Christmas Hospitality • As we prepare for and celebrate the coming holiday season, there will be many visitors to our church who have never stepped through our doors before. The members of Asbury First have always extended their hands in friendship to those who are new, and we want to ask you to continue this tradition in December, and take an extra moment when you are on campus to greet and welcome any new faces you see. This is especially true for Christmas Eve, when hundreds of first-time visitors will attend our services. They may be nervous about being in a new, unfamiliar place, or they may have questions that you can answer for them. Please join with us in helping to turn strangers into friends, and in making our services comfortable and welcoming for all. Thank you! 3
• A look ahead • to December’s Advent Activities
❆ Labyrinth
❆ Christmas Eve
Wednesdays, December. 2, 9, 16 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Thursday, December 24
12:00 noon
❆ Taizé
A Service of Word, Carols and Holy Communion.
Wednesdays, December 2, 9, 16 6:00 p.m. See page 5 for more information.
4:00 p.m.
❆ Advent Retreat
7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 5 9:30 a.m.-noon See page 5 for more information.
A Service of Word, Lessons & Carols.
9:00 p.m.
❆ A Service of Remembrance
11:00 p.m.
A Service for Families and Children featuring the Children's Pageant.
A Service of Word, Carols and Holy Communion. A Service of Word, Lessons & Carols.
Sunday, December 6 3:00 p.m. We remember our loved ones who are no longer with us with a meditative service of word, music, and communion, and the lighting of the remembrance candles.
All Christmas Eve services except 4:00 p.m. feature candlelight.
❆ Christmas Day Friday, December 25 10:00 a.m. Lessons & Carols Poetry and music (this will be the only service on Christmas day).
❆ Stress Reduction Workshop December 8 & 12 Learn how to handle the many stressors of the holiday season. For more information, see page 7.
❆ Sunday After Christmas Sunday, December 27 10:00 a.m. (This will be the only service on this day).
❆ Advent’s Winter Wonder Night (for children and families) Sunday, December 13 4:00-8:00 p.m. Come join us for dinner, fellowship, and storytelling.
❆ New Year’s Eve Thursday, December 31 5:00-6:00 p.m. Communion and Meditation Come and go as you wish. Labyrinth will be available.
❆ A Listening Life Tuesday, December 15 7:00-8:30 p.m. See page 13 for more information.
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on holy ground Created by the Center for Spiritual Life, On Holy Ground highlights opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal.
Another Opportunity for Worship Advent is the start of the new
the many offerings here at Asbury
and listen. All of this happens
from an ecumenical community
year for the church! It is our sea-
First UMC is a contemplative ser-
at the Taizé service, which takes
of the same name in the town
son of preparation, beginning on
vice with music to soothe us and
place on three Wednesdays dur-
of Taizé, France. More than 100
Sunday, November 29 and end-
remind us of the joy of sound;
ing Advent: December 2, 9 and
brothers from both the Catholic
ing on Thursday, December 24,
scripture to remind us of the
16 from 6:00-6:45 p.m. Please
and Protestant traditions live
Christmas Eve. There are many
importance of words in our lives;
consider joining us to experience a
there, and it has become an im-
things we can do to ready our-
communion to bring the peace of
familiar, or a new way to connect
portant pilgrimage destination for
selves for the celebration of the
Christ to our lives; and silence to
with our God of love.
Christians across the globe. The
birth of Jesus of Nazareth. One of
center and settle us when we stop
Our Taizé service takes its name
founder, Brother Roger Schütz, wanted to build a community where people lived in a spirit of kindness, simplicity, and reconciliation. More than 100,000 people – mostly young adults – travel to Taizé every year to pray, study, and work communally. Our Taizé at Asbury First is similar to the
Join us for a Retreat Workshop
Advent is God’s Dream for the World, Coming True in Jesus! Saturday, December 5 1010 East Avenue (the red brick building west of the church) Beverages and snacks will be available at 9:00 a.m. Program runs from 9:30 to noon At Asbury First, we’ve committed to dreaming together and turning our thoughts and prayers toward the leading of God as we pursue being the hands, eyes, ears and heart of God for and with our community. What a exciting adventure! Advent is the season to remember and give thanks that God took on human flesh in and through Jesus, who walked and lived among us. In Advent, we are called to remember and learn from Jesus’ coming and how that inspires and guides us today. The themes of Advent invite us to DREAM, AWAKE, REMEMBER, REJOICE and ANTICIPATE. Please join us for a morning of Advent Reflection and Dreaming. All are welcome; bring a friend, a neighbor, a guest. There is no charge, but registration is requested. Please contact Melody Guadagnino at (585) 271-1050. x103. Hosts: Spiritual Life Committee Facilitator: Bonnie Matthaidess, (585) 752-4650. For questions and more information, contact Bonnie. 5
sort of prayer service you might find at the Taizé community.
Labyrinth
Wednesdays, December 2, 9, 16 5:00-7:00 p.m. (there will be no walk on December 23) Come, walk, and listen to beautiful music as you experience some quiet, meditative time during Advent.
Let’s Go Orange! Join us for an Asbury First Basketball Road Trip to the Carrier Dome!
Syracuse Vs. Georgia Tech Saturday, January 30 Leaving AFUMC at 9:30 a.m. for the noon game Once again this year we are planning a college hoops road trip to Syracuse! Last year, this event sold out fast, so check your calendars and plan on joining us. The details: The chartered bus will depart from the Asbury First parking lot at 9:30 a.m. and will return at about 4:15 p.m. We have 55 tickets in the 300 level – 40 adults and 15 youth. The cost is $53 for adults and $33 for youth 12 and under. This includes transportation and game ticket. Our crew had a fabulous time last trip. The orange-clad fans on the bus and fellowship with new and old Asbury First friends made it a treat! Once again, Craig Dennison will lead a fun, SU-related trivia contest on the bus. To reserve your seat today, contact Melody Guadagnino in the church office at (585) 271-1050 x103 or mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org. This trip would make a great Christmas gift or family event. We hope you can join us!
Stress Reduction Workshop
Children’s Ministry Presents
Advent’s Winter Wonder Night
Tuesday, December 8 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. or
Sunday December 13 Gathering Center 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 12 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. 1010 East Avenue (red brick building next to the church) free-will offering will be taken
You are invited to leave behind the hustle and bustle this season brings for one evening, don your pajamas, and enjoy a breakfast/dinner in the Gathering Center. We will round out the evening with special Christmas music and a family worship service in the Sanctuary. We hope you can join us as we look forward to sharing the magic of the season with you and your family. Please RSVP to Paula Dugan by December 9 at pdugan@asburyfirst.org or by calling 271-1050 x111.
During the holiday season many of us experience feelings of great stress. If you would like to learn how to relieve it using spiritual and holistic means, please join us for a workshop with Jennifer Klein, a gifted teacher and leader who will share insights and ways to reduce stress in our lives. Open to the Asbury First community and you are welcome to bring a friend! Childcare will be available. Please RSVP to Melody Guadagnino at (585) 271-1050 x103 or mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org.
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outreach news Together in Service Wrap-Up Thank you to all who participated in Together in Service 2015! This year, we:
• Helped in construction of the Roger Cross Memorial House, a Habitat house being built by the Harvest Home Coalition, a group of Rochesterarea churches including Asbury First.
• Put together nearly 200 hygiene kits, which were given to four local aide agencies: Including the YWCA, the Salvation Army’s Genesis House (a 14 bed shelter for homeless youth ages 16-20) and another Salvation Army initiative, Hope House, which provides transitional housing for women who are homeless or coming out of prison.. • Volunteered with RAIHN, the Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network, of which Asbury First is a member, and which provides support and temporary housing to homeless families.
• Served meals at Unity Adult Day Services, which provides a supportive environment for people who need care during daytime hours.
• Built two “Sheds in a Kit” for Habitat for Humanity, working with teens and adults from several area churches. The sheds were built at Asbury First and then trucked to their final location, with Habitatbuilt homes.
Cynthia Herriot Sullivan and Betty Crews of Baber AME Church, delivering groceries to the YWCA. Baber is Asbury First’s partner church for our Together in Service activities.
• Received and allocated $1,500 in Wegman's gift cards to the programs with which we were working.
• Cooked and served a spaghetti dinner and ice cream social for Genesis House, and contributed needed items such as hats and mittens for the approaching winter.
The Together in Service Committee, with members from Baber AME and AFUMC, is the epitome of “together,” bringing our passions, perspectives, experiences, talents and time together to make a difference in Rochester. Please join us next October! – Barbara Eltinge.
• Cooked and served dinner for Hope House. • Provided groceries to the YWCA.
What is Happening at School #41? The answer to that question – a lot!
• As mentioned above, Asbury First will have a presence on the community advisory board.
School #41, where Asbury First has a tutoring program, was among those cited this spring as failing in both reading and math test scores. The school is now in receivership, meaning that if math and reading scores do not improve significantly within the next two years, administering the school will fall to the state or an educational intervention similar to that of East High School.
• Asbury First’s outreach committee will assist with the purchase of educational materials. • We will continue to assist in special projects: filling 20 grocery bags (with the assistance of the Asbury First children) at Christmas, helping with the transportation cost of field trips, and providing school supplies.
What is being done? The City School District has required the formation of community advisory groups for schools in receivership. Under the leadership of a new principal, the group has begun meeting at the school. Since Asbury First has had a presence at 41 for eight years, they requested that we have a part in the community plan, and I am honored to serve in that role. We will not only support changes, but will do as much as possible to assist 41 getting “back on track.”
A little story in support of school supplies: Because I have been outof-town this fall, it wasn’t until this past week that I was able to deliver the school supplies collected at Together In Ministry Sunday. As I was pointing out the various supplies to the parent-teacher liaison, a viceprincipal overheard that there were two backpacks included. She had just received a call from a parent asking for help in getting her child a backpack. So the very next day, the child in need had a new backpack. I call these happenings “God Moments.”
So what will our help look like?
As the community advisory board continues meeting monthly, we will explore ways in which groups such as Asbury First can be of assistance. Please hold in prayer the children of School #41, teachers and administrators, our Asbury First volunteers and the community advisory board. – Nancy S. Davidow, School #41 Project Coordinator.
•
Asbury First volunteers began math and reading tutoring during the second week in October, following an informative orientation with the School #41 administration and the City School District Volunteer Coordinator. 7 7
• Gaining While We Lose • by Ruth Phinney
Secretary, Asbury First TOPS
Y
ou’ve heard the saying
mittee on Relief to help with
that “size matters.” But it
earthquake relief in Nepal this
doesn’t matter when it comes
past spring. TOPS club mem-
to the Asbury First TOPS
bers are already discussing how
group. We’re small in number,
we can support the ministries
but big in support – and in
of AFUMC in the future,
more ways that you might
including reaching out to the
think.
Rochester community during
Yes, the Asbury First TOPS
“Together in Service” Week.
(Taking Off Pounds Sensibly)
TOPS members may not
group is a weight loss sup-
always be the biggest losers;
port group. Each Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.
but together we are all winners as we support each other in weight
(weigh-in begins at 5:30 p.m.) we come together to share healthy
loss and in the ministry of Asbury First United Methodist Church.
eating tips, challenge one another, set goals, celebrate losses, and
Please feel free to check out Asbury TOPS. It’s always free to try!
encourage and support those who are stuck. The group is even
TOPS Club Inc. is a nonprofit, non-commercial network of
counting steps toward a challenge to walk around the United
weight-loss support groups and wellness education organizations.
States, hitting all 50 states. So far we’ve already walked to Alaska
Asbury First TOPS is just one of 12,000 chapters throughout
and Hawaii and we’re in the center of the (virtual) country.
the U.S. TOPS offers tools and programs for healthy living
But supporting each other in weight loss isn’t the only way we
and weight management, with exceptional group fellowship and
believe support is important. Each month, we have very small dues
recognition. Established in 1948 to champion weight-loss support
that help cover club expenses. We also have a “temptation” jar into
and success, we've helped millions of REAL People achieve REAL
which we contribute if we gain over the course of the week or give
Weight Loss and live healthier lives. More information available at
into the specified weekly named “temptation.” With the money
http://www.tops.org/.
raised through the “temptation” jar, Asbury First TOPS has supported a number of projects at the church.
Plan Your New Year’s Resolution Now: Make it a TOPS Year!
Several times each year, the Asbury First TOPS group prepares and serves a meal to individuals participating in the RAIHN (Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network) program, a
You don’t need to spend a lot of money or eat nothing
non-profit, non-denominational group of faith communities in
but carrots to lose weight in 2016. At the Asbury First
Rochester who help homeless families achieve sustainable indepen-
TOPS group, you’ll find out tips and pointers for safe
dence. It helps us focus on how important food and fellowship are
weight loss, guidelines for healthy eating, and the sup-
to these families, and how food is a necessity and not something we
port an encouragement of your Asbury First friends. If
should abuse.
you’d like to find out more information on the AFUMC
The TOPS group has also contributed funds to support Asbury
group, contact Jane Beamish at jbwwtod@gmail.com –
First’s Grocery Bag Ministry, the Resource Library, RAIHN (used
or just stop by on a Wednesday evening at 6:00 p.m.
to buy new toys, snacks, etc.), Miracle Garden Tsunami Children’s Home, West Avenue Kids Café, and the United Methodist Com8
New Members New Members
We l c o m e o u r
Introducing Asbury First’s newest members. We’re so glad you’ve become part of our faith family!
Bonnie Gregory Bonnie, who lives in Henrietta, is retired from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. She moved to Rochester several years ago to care for her late brother, and was active in her previous church in a variety of ministries. She enjoys skiing, art and music, nature, and reading.
The Brocht Family Alicia and Jeff Brocht and their daughters Kimberlyn and Tori live in W. Henrietta. Alicia is a statistical programmer at University of Rochester while Jeff, we’re delighted to note, is a candy maker with Stever’s Candies on Park Ave. Tori is currently a college sophomore and Kimberlyn is in tenth grade.
The Karpovich Family Christie and Tony and their children Scott, Isabelle and Sophie, live in Pittsford. Tony is the owner of True Energy Solutions, Inc. Prior to attending Asbury First, they were active members of United Church of Pittsford. They enjoy supporting their children's activities, and Tony likes hiking, fishing, mud runs, and biking.
JeannÉ McWilliamson Jeanné is retired and lives in Pittsford. She comes to us from University United Methodist Church in San Antonio, Texas, where she was active in United Methodist Women. She enjoys reading and crafts, and hopes to learn more about discipleship at Asbury First.
Peggy MacDonald Peggy, shown here with her son Ian MacDonald and daughter-in-law Maggie Tobin (both members of Asbury First), lives in Webster and is retired. She has four adult children. She is hoping to use her baking and secretarial skills in service to others, and has already begun to volunteer in the church office as a receptionist.
Nancy Minor Nancy lives in Rochester. She is interested in learning more about her faith through adult Bible study, spiritual life enrichment opportunities, and other educational programs at Asbury First. She has been active in creating handmade cards for members of the military through Operation Write Home.
Photos courtesy of Kurt Mueller.
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Not Pictured: The Parent Family Ali and Jonathan Parent live in Macedon with their children Riley, Madden, and Will. Ali, a former middle school teacher, is currently a stay-at-home mom, while Jonathan is a senior sales engineer at Eaton. They previously attended Mills River First United Methodist Church in North Carolina. They enjoy reading and spending time with their family. Kenny and Jen Bailey Kenny and Jennifer live with their two-year-old son, Sebastian, in Rochester. Both work in academia: Kenny as a senior academic tech support specialist at St. John Fisher and Jen at RIT, where she is a lecturer. Kenny has already volunteered to work with Asbury First’s tech committee, and Jen is exploring volunteer opportunities at the church. Jay Nelson Jay and his wife, Barbara, have attended Asbury First for many years. The Nelsons live in Penfield, where they home school their four children: Connor, Trevor, Harper, and Audrey. Jay is an associate professor of English at MCC, and he has taught numerous adult Sunday school classes at Asbury First. The Nelsons have also been active in children’s ministry for many years.
Church-Wide Festival and Hoedown Even Mother Nature cooperated on Saturday, October 24 when a balmy fall evening ushered in the first-ever, multi-generational, churchwide Fall Festival and Hoedown at Asbury First. Guests shared a delicious barbecued chicken dinner, scoped out the many pumpkins and gourds for sale at the youth fundraiser, participated in games and face painting (the kids did, anyway!), and finally, cleared the dance floor for a good old-fashioned hoedown, led by veteran caller, the Rev. Gary Burdick. Enthusiasm for the evening’s events left little question about turning this into an annual Asbury First event. Here are a few of our favorite photos from the evening.
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youth ministry news Children of Eden a Success! In mid-November, the Asbury First youth presented their annual fall musical. This year’s selection was Children of Eden, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (of Godspell and Pippin fame) with a book by John Caird. The play was directed by Larry Dugan, with vocal direction by Carol Lamica, and Chelsey Backer on hand for choreography. The cast breathed new life into the stories of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Noah and the flood. Congratulations to all those who participated!
Photos by Dave Kennedy.
AFUMC Ski/Snowboard Day Saturday, January 2 Bristol Mountain (5662 Route 64, Canandaigua, N.Y. 14424) Open to ALL in our Asbury First family! Whether you’ve been riding the diamond moguls since you were a tot or have never strapped on a ski, you’re invited to an Asbury First Ski/Snowboard Day at Bristol Mountain. This has been an annual event for our youth, and this year we are excited it open it to our entire church family, all ages are welcome! We’ll meet at the church at 8:00 a.m. and carpool/caravan to Bristol; we’ll return to the church at about 6:00 p.m. Cost is $80/adult (adults can add lesson option for an additional $35), $65/ under 18 (includes a free lesson if interested); ). This price includes a lift ticket and rental of skis or a snowboard. If you have your own gear, cost is $52 for adult, $45/under 18. Reserve your space by Sunday, December 20 by contacting Melody Guadagnino in the church office at (585) 271-1050 or mguadagnino@ asburyfirst.org. Checks should be made out to Asbury First and sent in by Dec. 20 in order for us to qualify for the group rate. 11
Holiday Craft Sale Saturday, December 5, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Sunday, December 6 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Fellowship Hall
ds
C
St as for orehous m eK ist i hr
Sundays, November 29, December 6 and 13
Would you like to give a gift to a child who might not receive any this Christmas? The Asbury First Storehouse will be presenting gifts to all visiting children in December, and they need YOUR help.
scarves & hats
ornaments
photographic cards
doll clothes
prints
jewelry
pottery
pet items and much more!
Here’s what they’re looking for: • Infant and preschool learning toys. • Games, dolls, trucks and cars for young boys and girls. • Nail polish, eye shadow and make up for teen and pre-teen girls. • New pajamas, games and books for teens. • Games, books and sports equipment for teen and pre-teen boys. All toys should be new or gently used. There will be a table for your donations in the Welcoming Hall. Thank you for your generosity to our neighbors in need.
A portion of all proceeds benefits the Storehouse.
worship schedule WORSHIP
Asbury Day Care Center
Y Annual Wreath Sale Z
Sunday Service Times 8:30 a.m. – Traditional Worship 10:00 a.m. – Chancel Worship with Holy Communion 11:00 a.m. – Traditional Worship with Sanctuary Choir. Sunday december 6 Second Sunday of Advent Luke 3:1-16 Choral Cantata
Asbury Day Care Center is pleased to offer fresh holiday wreaths again this year. The Annual Wreath Sale will be held before and after each service on Sunday, December 6. A pre-order, pre-pay option is also 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 12
See schedule for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day on page 4.
Sunday december 27 First Sunday After Christmas Luke 2:41-52 Kathy Thiel, preacher There will only be one service at 10:00 a.m. on December 27.
Service of Remembrance will be held at 3:00 p.m.
Sunday January 3 Epiphany of the Lord Matthew 2:1-12 Katie O’Hern, preacher
Sunday december 13 Third Sunday of Advent Philippians 4:4-7 Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher
Sunday January 10 Baptism of the Lord Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher
Sunday december 20 Fourth Sunday of Advent Luke 1:39-45 Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher
Sunday January 17 Dr. Martin Luther King Day 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Katie O’Hern, preacher
Roaring Through the 20s at
A Listening Life
Downton Abbey
Tuesday, December 15 7:00-8:30 p.m. | 1010 Red Room
When we hear something, do we really listen? From the whisper of a breeze in the trees to a baby’s piercing cry for attention, we use our
Sunday, January 3 2:00 p.m. Asbury First Sanctuary
sense of hearing every day. But do we fully understand and appreciate what we’re hearing? In this series of discussions, we’ll look at how we
Join host Michael Lasser, vocalist Cindy Miller, and pianist Alan Jones in this exploration of show tunes and popular music that would have been familiar to the characters from the beloved television series during the roaring 20s. Presented by WXXI and Asbury First. Tickets are $20, available by calling (585) 258-0200.
listen to many voices: from God’s still voice to the voices of the world around us. We’ll explore ways to ensure that we don’t succumb to the old adage: “in one ear and out the other,” and we’ll talk about how listening carefully can help us to learn, to grow, and to reach out to God and others. Series will continue in spring.
Hanging of the Greens Wednesday, December 2
The early Christians placed greens in their windows to
Gathering Center. Please let Paula Dugan know if you are
indicate that Christ had entered the home – greens such
planning to come for dinner at pdugan@asburyfirst.org by
as cedar for royalty, fir and pine boughs for everlasting life,
Tuesday, December 1. All are welcome; there is no charge.
holly symbolizing Jesus’ death and ivy representing the
7:15 p.m. – Join us to celebrate the “Hanging of the Greens”
resurrection. And so it is time for us to once again prepare
in the Gathering Center as we light the tree, sing carols, and
our church home for Advent. The church campus awaits
enjoy the fellowship of Asbury First!
your special touches for this Christmas season. Many hands
Come and go as you can, help while your children are at
are needed to complete everything in one afternoon and
rehearsals, before Taizé, before Sanctuary Choir rehearsal,
evening. Our schedule is:
after Women on Wednesday, before or after walking the
10:00 a.m. – Set up the Gathering Center tree and tree in
Labyrinth. Bring a group, bring your family, come alone,
1010 East Avenue.
come for the whole time, come for an hour, but as we say,
1:00 p.m. – Decorate Fellowship Hall window wells.
“Whatever you do, just come!” Many hands make light work
3:00 – 5:00 p.m. – Make wreaths for the front doors.
and finishing it on Wednesday will have the church ready for
5:00-7:00 p.m. – Set up and decorate trees in the Education
the upcoming concerts, the craft sale, and all of the other
Wing and 1050 East Avenue (the church office building),
programs and services of the season. Come and join in the
hang wreaths and lights outside.
fellowship of the Hanging of the Greens!
6:00 p.m. - Join the children and families for dinner in the 13
library news December is a perfect time to explore special holiday books for all ages. Take a look at the following books available in the library’s collection of books for children, young adults and adults. The library has a large collection of Christmas fiction that will be on display in the library this month. The library is located just off the gathering space near the elevators. Everyone is welcome and it’s free! Children: The Message of the Birds, by Kate Westerlung. This beautifully-produced, 32-page book begins with a wise owl telling the other birds the story of the birth of Jesus. When the baby is born, the animals recognize his infant cooing as words of a song conveying peace, goodwill, and joy. The birds plan to carry the song far and wide and sing it to the children and let them pass the message to their family and friends. Full-color illustrations and an elegant text carry the simple story. According to Children’s Literature, “This would be a nice read-aloud at home or in the classroom, especially during the end of year holidays.”
Adults: 52 Little Lessons From It’s a Wonderful Life, by Bob Welch. Bob Welch takes us deeper into the nuances of Frank Capra’s 1946 tribute to bedrock values. This 224-page book takes readers back to the favorite Christmas classic and teaches us how God wants us to learn things to make us better people. There are 52 lessons – one for each week. It includes little “nuggets of wisdom that, when applied, can change our perspective.” This was the men’s 2015 retreat book, so check with them for their recommendation. Parenting: I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas: Gifts, Decorations, and Recipes That Use Less and Mean More, by Ann Getty. In only 180 pages, Anna Getty, environmental advocate, writer, television personality, chef, mother, and organic living expert, helps families reduce their carbon footprint and save money without sacrificing style or tradition in this holiday season. She advises on how to best choose a tree (real or fake?), mitigate the negative effects of necessary travel, and recycle post-holiday, and shares favorite holiday recipes for organic appetizers and homemade craft ideas such as pinecone wreaths and recycled sweater pillows.
Silver Packages: An Appalachian Christmas Story, by Cynthia Rylant. Grades 1-4 will enjoy this book complete with full-page watercolor paintings of a story loosely based on actual events. Rylant traces the origins of an Appalachian “Christmas Train” that travels through the mountains each year on December 23 to deliver silver packages to needy children. Teens: Bless This Mouse, by Lois Lowry. Although especially for ages 9-12, all ages will enjoy this wonderful talking mouse story, a hilarious and timeless tale about a village of church mice. It is a good-humored adventure filled with master plans, near disasters, and brave rescues.
Everyone: Goodness and Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas, by ed. by Michael Leach, James Keane, and Doris Goodnough. These 300 pages bring 48 reflections, poems and stories by notable authors providing daily inspiration, not only for the days of Advent and the Christmas holidays, but for every season of the year. (Located in the Spiritual Life Library, in 1010 East Avenue, the red brick building adjacent to the church, in the meditation room).
Counting by 7’s, by Holly Goldberg Sloan. This is an intensely moving middle grade novel about being an outsider, coping with loss, and discovering the true meaning of family. It contains lessons about resourcefulness, community, and true resilience in the face of loss.
December
23
Luke 1:57-80
1
Philippians 1:1-30
24
Luke 2:1-20
2
Philippians 2:1-30
25
John 1:19-34
3
Philippians 3:1-21
26
John 1:19-34
4
Philippians 4:1-23
27
Luke 2:21-52
28
Luke 3:1-22
29
Titus 1:1-16
30
Titus 2:1-15
31
Titus 3:1-15
5 6 7 8 9
10
Isaiah 40:1-31 Isaiah 41:1-29 Isaiah 42:1-25 Isaiah 43:1-28 Isaiah 44:1-28
Isaiah 45:1-25
11
Isaiah 48:1-22
17
Malachi 1:1-14
12
Isaiah 49:1-26
18
Malachi 2:1-17
13
Jeremiah 23:1-8
19
Malachi 3:1-18
14
Jeremiah 31:1-22
20
Malachi 4:1-6
15
Jeremiah 31:23-40
21
Luke 1:1-25
16
Jeremiah 33:1-26
22
Luke 1:26-56
Scripture reading suggestions courtesy of the American Bible Society, www.americanbible.org.
14
the last word 1 by Robyn Gage 2
O
ne thing is certain: the road out of poverty is long, exhausting and fraught with pitfalls. We are all called to do our part for our neighbors in Rochester and those in other countries. Books such as Toxic Charity by Robert D. Lupton or When Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett point out the need to be in an ongoing relationship with those we seek to help. They outline well-meaning ministries and services, organized and carried out by smart, caring people, that fail to improve the lives of those they aim to help. While Project Chacocente has certainly had failures, there have also been successes. Operating since 2004 in rural Nicaragua, with a primary goal of creating Christian community among the families removed from their homes in the Managua dump, the ministry has learned much along the way. Below are the stories of a few Chacocente residents showing the difficulty of their journey from despair to hope. Deyvin: His story is painful. While foraging for food with his three older brothers at the Managua dump, they came upon candy, and like any children, his brothers immediately ate it, not knowing it was laced with poison. Within an hour, Deyvin watched as his three older brothers died; all victims of extreme poverty. Deyvin was two at the time. With social services threatening to take away their other
Small Steps Taken Together: A Chacocente Update
Left, Deyvin loves to ride his bicycle, which was a gift from his sponsor. Child sponsorships are available for $30/month and provide schoolbooks, desks, and healthy lunches for the students of Chacocente Christian School. Right, Madeling is presented with the key to her new home. Built on land earned by her parents, Madeling and her husband are saving for windows and a door. From left: Gabril Godinez, in-country director, Madeling, AFUMC member Robyn Gage and Ashley Dubois, board of directors member.
Madeling: Always determined, Madeling has made the best of the opportunities with which she has been blessed. Moving to Project Chacocente in 2004 with her parents and six siblings, she graduated from the public high school, the first in her family for generations. It may sound like a small thing, but to do so she had to ride her bike an hour to and from school, the unpaved road nearly impassable in the rainy season and clouded with dust during the dry season. Upon graduation, she was hired as the librarian at Chacocente Christian School, where she surpassed expectations. Currently, she is the fourth grade teacher at Chacocente Christian school and attends Teacher School in Masaya. She hopes to earn her teaching certificate in one year.
children, his parents fled to the mountains with their three remaining sons and one daughter. Project Chacocente founder, Cheryl Avery, heard of the incident and worked with the local authorities, assuring that no charges were brought against the parents. The family moved to the Project. Deyvin, having lost his brothers and the only home he knew. became despondent, refusing to eat or smile. Losing weight rapidly, he was expected to die. Nurtured back to health with love and baby food (unheard of in Nicaragua at the time), Deyvin now is a student at Chacocente Christian School. He remains small for his age and he struggles with his studies, but the good news is that he smiles, plays with his friends and tries hard at school. He has hope! 15
This past summer, she was presented with the key to her home, built by members of the Chacocente community and visiting mission teams from the United States. Once she has saved enough money for windows and a door, she, her husband and daughter will reside there. Asbury First has been a blessing for Deyvin and Madeling, as well as many others at Project Chacocente and Chacocente Christian School. Plans are underway for a 2016 trip for Asbury First members to see first hand the wonders of this ministry! Details to follow. If you would like to sponsor a child for $30/month or a teacher (full sponsorships is $6,000/year or partial support is $100/month), please contact Robyn Gage at projectchacocente@gmail.com or 585-752-9070.
PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
A City United in Song, Singing for Peace Join Your Neighbor in Song Walk Together in Peace
CITY SING FOR PEACE & UNITY DECEMBER 20 ~ 4:00 pm ~ Starting at the Public Market After a season marked by violence in Rochester, we invite you to join your neighbors on December 20 at 4:00 at the Public Market. We will walk out together into the Central Park neighborhood singing songs of Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, peace, and Christmas.
Singing Songs of Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas and Peace Song Books Will be Provided – Bring Your Own Candle
ALL ARE WELCOME Refreshments will be available for a small cost.