TheVisitor Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter February 2016 • Vol. L No. 2 • www.asburyfirst.org
In This Issue Breath Prayer, 5 A Ministry of Stewardship, 6 Yoga & Chocolate, 7 New Members, 8 Clinic Update, 9 Stephen Ministries, 11 Hope College, 12 Youth Retreats, 13
An Evening of Yoga & Chocolate Fellowship Takes Many Forms at Asbury First!
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. L No. 2
(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. Periodical postage paid at Rochester, N.Y. POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to Asbury First UMC Visitor 1050 East Ave. Rochester, N.Y. 14607-2239 (585) 271-1050
Five Ways to Worship at Asbury First Our church goal this year: we commit to attending worship on Sundays as often as possible and inviting a friend to worship with us. Traditional Worship in our Sanctuary 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday mornings
Staff 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 Morgan Dornsife Development Director 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
Chancel Worship with Holy Communion 10:00 a.m. Sunday mornings 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
Rev. Dr. Theodore Weeden, Sr., Pastor Emeritus Dr. Roger Wilhelm, Director of Music Emeritus Marian R. Craighead*, Organist Emeritus
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.
*deceased Unless otherwise noted, photos are by Greg Francis.
sign up for our E-newsletter
Emeriti Staff
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: Audrey and Tim Shafer enjoy a good stretch at Asbury First’s “Yoga & Chocolate” event. See page 7. Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@asburyfirst.org or 585-271-1050, x109. Deadline for next issue: Monday, February 29
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Sacred Journeys A Pastoral Reflection Greetings and blessings to all of you! May you feel the love of God in your heart. We have embarked on the journey of Lent. For many of us, this beginning was marked on Ash Wednesday with ashes and celebrated with communion. Our Lenten journey will end on Easter Sunday with trumpets exclaiming our joy at the resurrection. Our altar will overflow with beautiful flowers. Lent is a wonderful time for spiritual contemplation. It is a time to look within ourselves and examine who we are as Children
of God. Knowing that we are accompanied by a loving God gives us the space to explore the ways in which we may have fallen short in the past, and reflect upon how we might strengthen our relationship with God. As we reflect, we become more aware of who we are, and how we are in this world. God uses our insights about ourselves to push us toward growth.
complete understanding of one’s self, and a thirst for a stronger relationship with one’s family and with God. Another may begin at the beginning, naked, wondering, questioning, asking, “God, will you please set my foot on the first step of my path to fullness with you?” Yet another may be searching for what questions to ask. “God, I know you are out there, I want a relationship with you, will you please help me?”
Jesus experienced a 40 day period in the wilderness, a big part of his journey. We know how Jesus’ journey ended, but our own journeys are in process, and we have not yet seen the endings. We are each unique and our journeys are as different as we are. One may begin with a
Whatever we ask, wherever we go, whatever we do, God is with us. If we make the wrong decision, God is there with us, to help us. When life gives us surprises, God is with us. God sees our struggles as successes because we are trying. God sees
what we may call failures as victories because we showed up. God is our greatest advocate, cheering us on, helping us up when we fall, encouraging us in all that we do to become closer to God, and more attuned to God’s love in the world. Friends, as we continue on this sacred journey together, finding our paths, choosing our stepping stones, resting along the way, God is with us. Take the journey of Lent to come out at the end on Easter Day with hallelujahs for the goodness and grace of God we experience when we strive to grow deeper in communion with God. We are in this together! Thanks be to God!
Kathy Thiel
AFUMC news in orange gear, enjoyed a basketball-themed trivia contest on the bus ride to Syracuse, courtesy of Craig Dennison. We’d like to think that the final score – 60-57 Syracuse – was at least partly due to the presence of our AFUMC group. Lost Members We have lost touch with some of our members. The church does not have an address for the following people: Marianne Adams, Thomas Brandt, Stacy Lynne Connell, Helen Cover, Beth Cubberly, Barbara DeVitto, Carole Dinmore, Lloyd Gray, Lauren Greer, Janet Guido, Allison Ianacone, III, Lisa Kenna, John Magin, David Moore, Lindsey
Asbury First Group Cheers on Syracuse Bball for the Win
Moore, Christine O’Brien, Stanley Poling, Thomas Rook, Brian
A group of Asbury First mem-
Ruster, James Smith, Jack Swackhamer, Jonathan Stuermer,
bers and friends were on
Adrienne West, and David White Jr. If you have current
hand at the Carrier Dome on
address information for the above, please call Melody
Saturday, January 30 when
Guadagnino at 585-271-1050 ext. 103 or send an email to
the Syracuse University men’s
mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org.
basketball team took on Georgia Tech. The group, who dutifully adorned themselves
Continued on next page.
Eugene Fisher and Katie O’Hern at the Carrier Dome
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AFUMC News, continued from previous page.
An Update from The Ministry & Space Task Force
Dining Center Closed Early March
Picture in your mind Asbury First’s sanctuary – a beautiful
Due to the installation of new flooring the Dining and
building, a steeple soaring into the sky, and a long
Caring Center will be closed from March 1 to March 10.
walk from East Avenue leading to massive stone steps,
If you are scheduled to work during those days, you will
welcoming you into our church home. What’s wrong with
not need to come in. Thank you, and we apologize for the
this picture? Many of us enter our place of worship from
inconvenience.
the parking lot, so few see or use the front door anymore.
Dream On
Those front stone steps and the handicapped ramp are
The dream board has come
crumbling – soon to become a challenge for all who use
down and we have asked that
this entrance. “But they are made of stone,” you say, “so
the community spend the
they shouldn’t be crumbling.” Unfortunately, the steps are
season of Lent in prayer for our
made of limestone, a material that makes a wonderful wall,
common dreams. The season
but doesn’t stand up to harsh winters and snow melting
of Easter brings with it the
materials (salts). The steps were replaced about 25 years ago
promise of new life and, this
with the same type of stone the builders of our church used
year, a new chance to dream.
during its construction. The Ministry & Space Task Force is in
For one week, from Sunday,
conversation with the church architect to determine how to
April 10 to Sunday April 17,
solve the problem and what materials should be considered.
we will place a large board with all of our dreams on it in
We’ll keep you updated in The Visitor on our progress with
the Gathering Center. We request and encourage all who
this project.
are interested to take a moment, either Sunday morning or sometime during the week, to arrange the dreams as you
worship schedule WORSHIP
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 February 28 Third Sunday in Lent Luke 13:1-9 Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher Sunday March 6 Fourth Sunday in Lent Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher
see fit. This crowd-sourced “affinity diagram” will be fluid and allow everyone to reveal the common themes of our dreaming together and to help us find together who God is calling us to be. New cards will be available for those who,
Sunday, March 13 Fifth Sunday in Lent Kathy Thiel Sunday March 20 Palm Sunday Luke 19:28-40 Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher
through the process, discover new dreams. Once the dreams have been sorted, our Strategic Planning Team (aka “Dream Team”) will use those themes and insights to create a new five-year strategic plan for Asbury First.
in Community
Our Living
Sunday March 27 Easter Sunday Luke 24:1-12 Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher
Deaths Merciful God, we entrust to Your never-failing care and love. We offer our prayers and We offer our prayers and symsympathy to Ron and Dot pathy to Monica Gilligan on Horning on the death of Ron’s the death of her mother brother Penny Gilligan Bernard Horning on February 2, 2016 in on January 30, 2016 in Boca Westhampton Beach, New Raton, Florida. York.
For a full schedule of Holy Week services, please see the back cover. Sunday APril 3 Second Sunday of Easter Katie O’Hern, preacher 4
on holy ground Created by the Center for Spiritual Life, On Holy Ground highlights opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal.
Exploring the Breath Prayer “…a brief breath prayer [is] a kind of prayer
down to focus on what I am praying. This is the
that engages the body. The breath prayer
first time I have practiced this discipline and
method — repeating a short phase on the inhale
I am finding it extremely satisfying as another
and a petition on the exhale — will bring
way to be serious and committed to my relation-
the concepts into the body and enhance their
ship with God. A dear friend who has macular
understanding. The beauty of a breath prayer
degeneration, causing limited eyesight, called
comes in its brevity and portability. We may
me one evening and expressed her anxieties over
think or utter it anywhere, anytime — stand-
several events about which she was worried. She
ing in a grocery store line or during a brief
has a strong faith and has been a devoted Chris-
bout of insomnia at 3:00 a.m. The more
tian for many years. I suggested the breath prayer
often, the better.”
and read several examples to her. Immediately, she
– from Rhythms of Growth: 365 Medita-
said, ‘I like “Speak, O God, … for I am listening”.’ She thanked me and I thanked God for giving me
tions to Nurture the Soul, by Linda Douty,
the thought to suggest the breath prayer to her.”
Upper Room Books, pp. 10.
A
Here are some more examples of breath prayers that you might
FUMC member Marty Garland says, “I have been saying
try, from Rhythms of Growth:
the breath prayer for January: ‘Speak, O God, … for I am
listening.’ I am finding that not only does it make me aware that
4 “Speak, O God, … for I am listening.” (page 13)
I am NOT listening, but also that I am NOT breathing deeply
4 “Guiding Spirit, … show me the way.” (page 43)
enough. As I repeat the prayer (sometimes at 2:00 a.m.) my
4 “Open my eyes, … that I may see.” (page 71)
breathing becomes more regular and deeper, and my mind calms
Labyrinth
Taizé Service
Wednesdays, March 2, 9, 16 5:00-7:00 p.m. Come, walk, and listen to beautiful music as you experience some quiet, meditative time during Advent.
Wednesdays, March 2, 9, 16 6:00-6:45 p.m. A meditative service featuring simple music, word, prayer and silence.
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Stewardship news
1 by Morgan Dornsife, Development Director 2
Ed. note: in this issue of The Visitor, we
thought. And with that, I began my develop-
which God has called us.’ Our invitation is
premiere a column on the many facets of giving
ment career, holding a deep conviction of the
clear and confident because we trust that our
and the role of philanthropy in all our lives. In
role this work plays in the Kingdom of God.
vision and mission are like ‘trees planted by
the coming months, our authors will explore
It seemed fitting that in my first weeks at As-
streams of water, which yield their fruit in its
some of the aspects of giving and stewardship. Why does giving matter? What is God asking of us in terms of how, when and why we give? Does giving benefit us, the giver, as it benefits the one who receives? We invite you, as you read these articles, to think about what philanthropic giving means to you. For our first column, Development Director Morgan Dornsife reflects on giving as ministry.
A
few years ago, I had
my first day as a development professional. While I still lacked some clarity on the big picture of development work, I was passionate and eager
Morgan Dornsife
to learn. As I walked into my new office, two things were waiting for me. First, a lovely bouquet of flowers from my team. And second, a small book titled The Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri Nouwen. I sat down in disbelief and began to flip through the book. Nouwen (a Roman Catholic priest, professor, and author on topics of faith and spirituality) is one of my favorite writers, and I had no idea he had written about the work I was beginning that day. Feeling God’s confirmation of my career decision, I eagerly dove into the book and read it from cover to cover. On the last page, I couldn’t help but tear up a bit. “This is exactly what I am supposed to be doing,” I
bury First, I returned to this essay. As I reread
season, and their leaves do not wither’.” (Psalm
these familiar words, I was overwhelmed with
1:3)
how closely Nouwen’s comments spoke both
Asbury First has spent the last year dreaming
to me in my new role, and to the current situ-
about the future God has for us. Similarly,
ation in which Asbury First finds itself.
I am spending time now also in a season of
n Fundraising is, first and foremost, a form of ministry … [It] is proclaiming what we believe in such a way that we offer other people an opportunity to participate with us in our vision and mission. –Henri Nouwen
dreaming and prayer. What plans does God have for the “ministry of stewardship” here at Asbury First? How will the work I do support the bigger calling God has for us all? How will we continue to honor God in our stewardship? As I continue to dream, I’d like to extend an invitation for you to join me. I think we can all agree that the dreams God has led us to dream will only become a reality if we all work together. Please get in touch with me. I would love to hear your dreams, your journey at Asbury First, and how you would like to join the great work ahead of us. I am convinced God has positioned Asbury First for great things. I am ready to invest my energy, prayers, and money into this work ahead. And I look forward to you joining me!
n “When we seek to raise funds we are not saying, ‘Please, could you help us out because lately it’s been hard’.” said Nouwen. “Rather, we are declaring, ‘We have a vision that is amazing and exciting. We are inviting you to invest yourself through the resources that God has given you — your energy, your prayers, and your money — in this work to
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If you would like more information, or are interested in making a gift or sharing your Asbury First experiences with Morgan, feel free to contact her at 585-271-1050 ext. 112 or mdornsife@asburyfirst.org.
An Evening of Elegance and Exercise at Asbury First People come to church for many reasons, and at Asbury First, a good yoga stretch followed by some delicious chocolate treats are just two of those reasons. The second annual “Partnering Yoga and Chocolate” event took place on Friday, February 12 in the Gathering Center. Nearly 60 people participated in gentle yoga moves, led by Lindsey LaPlant of Bodhi Tree Yoga in Penfield. Meanwhile, downstairs in the Youth Room, Lindsey Mease from LooLoo’s Little Yogis led a class of yoga for children. Afterwards, participants cooled off while munching on sweets from Stever’s Homemade Candy and Tasteful Connections Catering, and enjoying the company of friends both new and old.
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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!
Theresa and Kristopher Dunlavey The Dunlaveys live in Rochester and have two children, Lucy and Violet. Kristopher works for MVP Healthcare and Theresa is a graphic artist. Kristopher volunteers with Asbury First’s Carvers of Hope group, and enjoys wood carving, sports, and movies. Theresa likes crafting and sewing, and is a member of a pregnancy bereavement group.
Grace Fuller Grace, who lives in Irondequoit, works for the University of Rochester Medical Center. She has three grown children: Susanna, Anthony, and Joseph. She has many interests, including hiking, dancing, drawing, and meeting new people, and she serves as the recording secretary for the local chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club.
Karen and William Masters Karen and Bill are retired, and live in Macedon. They come to us from Grace UMC in Naperville, Illinois. Bill’s interests include reading and doing crossword puzzles. Karen has been active in choir, women’s groups and Sunday school. They enjoy helping others.
Dr. Leonard Sweet Monday, March 28 7:00 p.m. | free
Theology on Tapas
Renowned writer and theologian Dr.
Thursdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 5-6:30 p.m. | Ox and Stone (282 Alexander St.)
Leonard Sweet will visit Asbury First in March under the auspices of Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. At Asbury First he will give the Stanley I.
Join us for tapas and informal conversation
Stuber Lecture, titled You Don’t ‘Work’ a
about life, faith, and today’s world. Each week we’ll talk about a different topic,
Violin: The Play of Faith.
all while getting to know one another
Dr. Sweet is a scholar of American culture,
and sharing food. Want to learn more or
a preacher and a best-selling author who communicates the gospel
suggest a topic for conversation? Contact
with a signature bridging of the worlds of faith, the academy, and
Katie O’Hern at kohern@asburyfirst.org.
popular culture. He is currently the E. Stanley Jones Professor of
No need to register: just show up, and stay
Evangelism at Drew University, Madison, NJ and a Visiting Distin-
as long as you like!
guished Professor at George Fox University, Portland, Oregon. 8
Outreach news Asbury First URWell Clinic Update Asbury First UR Well clinic opened January 14, 2009 to care for uninsured and underserved families and individuals. This past year, we treated 339 patients. (In the church’s annual report, it stated that we had treated 318 patients, but that was an error). Patients from in and around the Rochester area were treated for aches and pain, asthma, allergies, infection, flu, sore throats, urinary tract infections, PPDs (tuberculosis test), high blood pressure, and diabetes mellitus. We also performed physicals for work, school, and sports. An important part of our ministry is providing health and preventative maintenance education on common diseases and topics such as the proper use of medication and smoking cessation counseling. Referrals were given as needed. We have a social worker available on site or on call to assist those who need help in finding food, housing, and other social service needs. There is also a New York health insurance navigator present on site to assist patients in applying for health insurance coverage. Between November 2014 and December 2015 she enrolled 60 patients in health care while at our clinic. Additionally, the medical students and volunteers from Tasteful Connections Catering continue to provide healthy and nutritious meals to patents while they wait to be seen in the clinic. In 2015, 249 patients received physicals at the clinic for work, school sports, or college. Patients who had physicals were able to start new jobs
faces was joy for all of us at the clinic. We are happy to be there to give them the care they need. Often they would thank us, saying “if you were not here I don’t know what I would have done.” In 2015, we improved our clinic equipment by adding a portable blood pressure machine, an 02 meter, a scale that measures BMI (body mass index), blood pressure cuffs of various sizes for more accurate readings, stethoscopes, two otoscopes (for examining the ear) and two ophthalmoscopes (for examing the eye; one for each room), a microscope, and a medication cabinet. All of these item will allow us to give the patients who access our clinic the best health care possible. We hosted our second open house on May 24 and welcomed 40 guests. On October 4, 2015 we began hosting a blood pressure clinic open to the congregation which is available on the first Sunday of every month. Top to bottom: medical students share information with each other and their preceptors before seeing patients; all clients at the clinic receive a hot meal, here served by a student; AFUMC member and nurse Ida Hickman talks to a patient at the clinic.
Our goal is to continue to provide the best possible care at our clinic, and build a trusting and caring relation within and outside of Rochester.
to improve their lives; students who received physicals were happy and excited because they would be able to participate in the sport of their choice, and college students were grateful to have one hurdle gone from their lives, enabling them to enter college and begin their higher education. 69 patients were treated for medical problems, while 21 patients were treated for dermatology issues. To see their happy
Thanks to all our Asbury First friends for your gifts, prayers and words of encouragements and appreciation.
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–Ida Hickman Check out our new promotional video for the clinic, created by AFUMC member Kurt Mueller. Just go to www.youtube.com and in the search bar type in “Asbury First UR Well Clinic.”
Upcoming AFUMC events
Pie for Pi Day Sale
United Methodism 101
Sunday, March 13
Wednesdays, April 6, 13, 20, 27 6:30-7:30 p.m. Gathering Center • • • • •
Do we believe in free will or predestination? Why do we use grape juice and not wine during communion? Why do our ministers move around so much? What’s up with the name “Methodist?” What does it mean to be “strangely warmed?”
Whether you’ve been a United Methodist all of your life or have just stumbled upon us recently, this class is for you! This four-week discussion is about the history, structure, beliefs, and challenges of The United Methodist Church. Please let us know if you plan to attend by April 1 so that we can order books (optional). The cost will be $12 for the optional book and assistance is available.
Our youth will be selling delicious homemade pies before and after all services on March 13 in honor of Pi Day (3/14 ... get it?) Pies will be $10, with 100 percent of the sales going to support our Asbury First youth missions.
Comparing the Gospels Thursdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 6:00-7:00 p.m. | 1010 East Ave., Red Room
Pretzel Sunday
Have you ever wondered why we have four Gospels – not just one? In this class, we’ll take a look at differences and similarities among the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Each written under different circumstances, we’ll contrast some of the betterknown stories and talk about what each author was trying to accomplish by writing it as he did. We’ll pay special attention to the Johannine Gospel, which deviates from the synoptics (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) in some significant ways. Join us as we take a closer look at these four seminal books of our faith. For more information
Sunday, March 6 ~ 9:45 a.m.-noon We invite your children to join us in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 a.m. to visit stations related to our theme, “You Are the Salt of the Earth.” At 10:45, we’re asking the parents to please pick up their children so that you can worship as a family at the 11:00 a.m. service. After children’s time at that service, we’ll head back downstairs to finish baking our pretzels, which we’ll share with the congregation when the service is over. Please contact Paula Dugan at pdugan@asburyfirst.org or 585-271-1050 x111 if you have any questions.
contact Summer Sattora at ssattora@asburyfirst.org. 10
• Love One ANother As I have Loved YOU • –John 15:12 1 by Kathy Thiel 2
A
sbury First is
future care receiver.
blessed to have two
Stephen Ministries is a Chris-
kinds of “Stephen Minis-
tian organization; more than
try.” Our senior minister,
170 different denominations are
Stephen Cady, is one,
registered with the international
and the other is the lay
group. At the training I attended,
ministry called Stephen
40 different denominations were
Ministries. This article is
represented. It felt a little like the
devoted to a brief outline
early church might have felt to sit
of the latter.
in a large room with more than
In the book of Acts, we
200 people who had the well-being
hear a story involving another Stephen, one who
training; afterward, they receive regular
of others as their first priority, and who would bring this ministry
was faithful and diligent in his love and
supervision for support and advice.
back to congregations with different ways
work for God and Christ. This Stephen
Stephen Ministers are here to walk
of recognizing and acknowledging God
was full of the Spirit and of wisdom, and
alongside you while you are going through
and Christ. Stephen Ministry is Christ-
was chosen as one who would minister
a normal life-event such as the death
centered care, lifting up and living by the
to those in need. In Acts 6:15 we are told
of a loved one, the loss of a job, divorce.
words of Jesus, from the Gospel of John:
that Stephen’s face was “like the face of an
Stephen Ministers offer support by way
“Love one another as I have loved you.” We
angel.” Who wouldn’t want to see the face
of presence and compassion. One of the
have plenty of examples of the ways Jesus
of an angel? We all look for someone with
most important parts of being a Stephen
loved everyone.
faithful diligence, and shining, Spirit-filled
Minister is listening. Stephen Ministers are not therapists and do not give advice.
Stephen Ministers are here for those who
countenance, especially when we are in need. These compassionate folk come in
A relationship between a Stephen Minis-
many and varied ways to our sides when
ter, the care-giver, and the care-receiver is
we are hurting.
sacred.
Inspired by this story, Kenneth Haugk, a
Asbury First has an active Stephen Minis-
relationship you have with your pastoral
pastor and clinical psychologist, began Ste-
try with many trained Stephen Ministers.
staff. It does not take the place of pastoral
phen Ministries in 1975. His idea was to
Recently, I attended a leadership training
counseling. Your pastors are still going to
form a group of lay people who would care
course and am now certified to train more
be with you on your journey and will still
for parishioners and community members
Stephen Ministers. If you are interested
visit you and be in touch with you.
during times of need. Initially, there were
in becoming a Stephen Ministers, please contact me at 585-271-1050 x. 106 or
If you would like more information about
nine lay people trained as Stephen Ministers. Today, there are thousands of Stephen
kthiel@asburyfirst.org. Training is a won-
Ministers in more than 12,000 partici-
derful way to explore more about yourself
pating congregations. Stephen Ministers
as you learn about this caring ministry. It is
prepare for this ministry with 50 hours of
rich with possibility for both you and your
are suffering, and those who need support. This is not therapy, but rather a Christ-like presence for you in your time of need. This ministry relationship does not replace the
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Stephen Ministry, if you would like to be trained as a Stephen Minister, or if you would like to receive care from a Stephen Minister, please contact me.
music the
O
arts
&
The Hope College Chapel Choir Concert to Perform
n Thursday, March 17 at 7:30 p.m., Asbury First will host a concert in our sanctuary performed by the Hope College Chapel Choir.
vespers program, which is broadcast from its home in Holland, Michigan throughout the United States on PBS television and National Public Radio. Additionally, the choir has sung at The National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden, Grove, CA, and at many choral conferences.
Directed by Brad Richmond, The Chapel Choir is Hope College’s premier choral ensemble. Comprising forty auditioned choristers, the choir has toured extensively throughout the U.S.A. and Canada, and has traveled to Europe and South Africa for performances.
The choir’s 2016 tour itinerary includes eight concerts in churches in Michigan, New Jersey, and New York, including at St. Paul’s Chapel in New York City. Their New York and New Jersey stops begin at Asbury First.
Brad Richmond has been director of choral activities at Hope College since 1998. He teaches conducting and voice, and directs the College Chorus in addition to the Chapel Choir.
There is no charge for this event: a free-will offering will be taken at the door. – Jeanne Strong
The Chapel Choir is featured in the college’s annual Christmas
Salon Concert Series
Save the Date!
Cordancia Chamber Orchestra: April in Paris
at A s b u r y F i r s t S u n d a y, M a r c h 2 0 / 2 : 0 0 P . M . DvorÁk Trios v
Friday, April 22 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $12 general admission; $9 senior/student admission, available at the door.
Featuring Rebecca Penneys, piano Mikhail Kopelman, violin Stefan Reuss, cello
A program of French music, including works by George Antheil, Delius, and Ibert, and members of the French group, Les Six. The program will also feature the winner of Cordancia’s Concerto Competition for Young Performers.
The musicians will perform Trio No. 3 in F minor, Op. 65 and Trio No. 4 in E minor “Dumky,” Op. 90. Dumky
Cordancia performs with conductor Rachel Lauber, pianist Ines Draskovic and this year’s competition winner.
is a Slavic term that Dvorák used to indicate a mostly
This is the first performance of this program. The second performance will be on April 24 in the Linehan Chapel at Nazareth College.
Tickets are $30 in advance, available by calling the
www.cordancia.org
also available at the door for $35, free for full-time
v
brooding, introspective composition.
church office at (585) 271-1050 x103. Tickets are students with ID.
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youth ministry news Reflections on the Senior High Retreat What does it mean to retreat from something? By definition, it means to withdraw to a quiet or secluded place, which is exactly what the senior high youth group had the opportunity to do during this past not-so-snowy January weekend. A total of 23 youth and adults traveled to Camp Casowasco in order to retreat from something – whether it was work, friends, stress, responsibilities, etc. We were all there to escape from something, and the activities and continuous fellowship gave us all the chance to experience what it truly means to retreat.
in its entirety. Now, thanks to the wonderful Mike Mullin, director of youth ministry, and Summer Sattora, ministry intern, I have learned more about revelation than I honestly ever expected too. While in fellowship with our youth group, I feel more comfortable and willing to try new things. I have never been good at throwing a Frisbee, but with the help of some great friends and youth counselors, I was able to participate in a game of “frolf” or frisbee golf. It was nice to be able to overcome an obstacle in my life with the support of my peers. This past weekend was my ninth and final retreat to Casowasco. Since I was in eighth grade, I have been going to this Camp on a retreat at least once a year. It has become a highly anticipated event in my life, one that I wish lasted more than just a weekend. Being a senior, it was very bittersweet to walk around this beautiful place for the last time as a youth. Camp Casowasco has always been a place of peace, comfort, reflection and an escape for me. I have greatly enjoyed the past nine trips I have taken to this beautiful place, and I am so thankful that I have gotten to share my happy place with our youth group.
The theme for this retreat was revelation. Through various discussions, movies, songs, and activities we learned about the three major perspectives on revelation: past, present and future. We started the weekend off by learning about what revelation means and different perceptions of it. I have to admit that although I knew of revelation before coming on this retreat, I wasn’t quite sure what it meant
–Author Hannah Smith is a senior at Pittsford Sutherland High School.
SOLID Youth Retreat for the Junior High Teens at Camp Casowasco Eight people from Asbury First went to the junior high retreat: four youth and four adults. We played games like streeball; our team was named Team Phillip. Streeball is a mix of street hockey, kickball, and soccer. We also played frisbee golf and many board games, including Anomia, Spit, BS, and James Bond. In our small groups and sessions, our theme was connection. In one session, we made small chains with the names of people who we felt connected to and then connected all of ours from our personal youth group. After all the churches were finished, we connected all of the chains together so that we could all feel connected in some way. They had a great band there who played Christian rock music. All in all, we all had a great time and were able to feel more connected with God. – Author Maddie White is in eighth grade at Rush-Henrietta.
The Asbury First group at Camp Casowasco for the SOLID youth retreat. L to r, Owen Cole, Maddie White, Riley Flynn, Mike Mullin, Trevor Nelson, Summer Sattora, Ian Pershing, and Ali Payne.
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library news February provides perfect reading weather. Picture yourself in a comfy chair in a warm place with one of the following books. Take a look at the books available in the library’s collection of books for children, teens and adults. The library is located just off the gathering space near the elevators. When the church is open, the library is open. It’s FREE and everyone is welcome! Children: Book of Bible Studies, by Tomi dePaola. This 128-page anthology of 37 Bible stories and prayers is based on the New International Version, a contemporary translation of the Bible, to make these tales accessible to young readers. Jonah in the whale, Noah and his animal pairs headed for the ark, Moses with the burning bush: all are presented in an appealing style for ages 4-8.
peace, the role of women, and the survival of the planet. She explores the deepest questions of human existence, including love, suffering and death, the quest for happiness, the meaning of life, and reflections on her own journey, why she remains in the church, and what sustains her faith and hope. Accidental Saints: Finding God in all the Wrong People, by Nadoc Bolz-Weber. Accidental Saints demonstrates what happens when ordinary people meet to share bread and wine, struggle with scripture, and tell the truth about their real lives.
The Book with no Pictures, by B. J. Novak. “Cleverly irreverent and irresistibly silly,” The Book with No Pictures is one that kids will love to hear again and again. A #1 New York Times bestseller, this innovative and wildly funny read-aloud book was written by award-winning humorist/actor B.J. Novak.
What Comes Next and How to Like It, by Abigail Thomas. This book is a moving memoir about many of life’s greatest challenges and inimitable rewards.
Teens: I Wish I Knew What to Do: On What to Say to Get Bullies to Leave You Alone, by Beth Carls. A collection of 95 essays, written by teen authors from across the country, who share their personal advice about experiences as either being the bully, victim or bystander to not only youth, but to parents and educators on how to stop this growing trend.
Parenting: Home is Where the Mom Is: A Christian Mom’s Guide to Taking Care of herself, Her Family, and her Home, by Shelly Burke. This book provides down-to-earth advice on nurturing yourself, your marriage, and your children. It serves as a reference to moms of all ages.
Words for the Journey: Letters to our Teenagers About Life and Faith, by Martin Copenhaver and Anthony Robinson. This book for teens provides thought provoking brief chapters on questions teens and adults have about God. It is cited as a wonderful resource for individual as well as group faith formation.
DVD: Jerusalem, directed by Daniel Ferguson. Actor Benedict Cumberbatch narrates this 43-minute National Geographic film exploring the landscape of Jerusalem.
Adults: Essential Writings, by Joan Chittister. The author addresses the key social issues of our time: justice, March 1 Psalm 79 2 Psalm 80 3 Psalm 84 4 Psalm 85 5 Psalm 86 6 1 Kings 3:1-15 7 1 Kings 8:1-21 8 1 Kings 8:22-40 9 1 Kings 8:41-53 10 1 Kings 8:54-66
11 Jeremiah 32:1-15 12 Jeremiah 32:16-44 13 Jeremiah 42:1-22 14 Lamentations 1:1-22 15 Lamentations 3:1-33 16 Lamentations 3:34-66
17 Lamentations 5:1-22 18 Luke 11:1-13 19 Luke 18:1-14 20 Luke 19:28-48 21 Luke 20:1-26
22 Luke 22:1-38 23 Luke 22:39-71 24 Luke 23:1-25 25 Luke 23:26-49 26 Luke 23:50-56 27 Luke 24:1-12 28 Luke 24:13-35 29 Luke 24:36-53 30 Jonah 1:1-17 31 Jonah 2:1-10
Scripture reading suggestions courtesy of the American Bible Society, www.americanbible.org.
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the last word
1 by Michele Cooley, DCC Director, and Ray Fox 2 Saying ‘YES” To Life I like to tell stories of inspiration and hope. The Visitor provides a forum for this and an opportunity for readers to meet some really wonderful people. Ray Fox is just such a person. He started here as a volunteer on July 11, 2014. Many of you who are familiar with Alcoholics Anonymous are aware that having a sponsor provides support and encouragement to an individual. Ray’s sponsor happens to be an Asbury First United Methodist Church member who suggested that the Dining Center might be a good fit for Ray. He was right. Ray is very dedicated and works alongside Charles, our chef, in the kitchen. He is a man who has come far from a place of despair. This is what Ray had to tell me about his life. “When you live a life of drug addiction it’s take, take, take. Now I get gratification from giving back with love. My sponsor thought this would be a good place to make connections. I was born in Brooklyn and raised on Long Island, the third oldest boy of 12 children. We had a very chaotic home life. Dad was a compulsive gambler and alcoholic. When the paychecks did not come in as planned, Mom became angry and took it out on the children. It was horrible. I was deathly afraid of my parents and started drinking and using drugs at about 12 or 13 years old. The solution my parents came up with to deal with my addictions was to put me in the Army. I had no choice. I went from a
Ray asked us to share a poem that he wrote that expresses his hope: AWAKE Blended skies of gray Misty rain dampens the earth Much as the soul seeks to be refreshed by the light. Break through the darkness, my dear Lord, Reach within and entice me to look ahead with hope! Damp green grass moistens the soul and the Heavens Burst forth with life-giving rays. Enjoy the moment, Let it seep through your pores and quench your spirit! Let your eyes open wide with delight and gladness to see the beauty of Your reflection through God’s gentle eyes. – Raymond Fox
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house ruled by a strict regimen into the military which was the same. I came home from the military and Vietnam as a heroin addict. My life was one of many challenges. I lost my marriage of 20 years. At the age of 57 I cried out to God for help. I found East House after surrendering to my addiction. I was in the hospital for alcohol and drug addiction and I did not want to die leaving my four children without a father. They are all back in my life now and I take things one day at a time. It is very hard to change at 57 and to look at life as a glass half full. I had to change my attitude. Addiction preys on your weakness to the point that you feel like the only solution would be to go back to your old life. I was released from prison and relocated to Rochester from Cephus Attica. This organization was a great support. They helped me find a job and a place to live in a time of need. At the Dining Center I get much more than I give. This keeps me alive spiritually and the essence of sobriety is spirituality. I get power from God by coming here and connecting with the people. I like the guests and enjoy saying the morning blessing on Friday before breakfast. I serve with a smile and a genuine understanding of where guests might be and where I do not want to return. I have been sober now for five years and would like to dedicate my sobriety to my two brothers, one who passed away from Aids/HIV 18 years ago and the other who committed suicide 8 years ago.”
PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
He Is Risen! Join us at Asbury First During Lent and Easter Week
Palm Sunday March 20 Our regular services will be held at 8:30, 10:00 and 11:00 a.m; palms will be distributed to all. Labyrinth March 2, 9, 16 / 5:00-7:00 p.m. Our beautiful labyrinth is located under the Sanctuary, in Fellowship Hall. Walking the labyrinth is an ancient practice that provides a place for reflection and peaceful prayer. TaizÉ SERVICE March 2, 9, 16 / 6:00 p.m. These services feature simple sung chants, quiet prayer, and contemplative silence. Maundy Thursday March 24 / 7:30 p.m. Candlelight re-enactment of Christ’s last night &
Communion service. Sanctuary open at 6:30 p.m. for silent meditation. Good Friday March 25 / noon Envisioning the Passion Holy Week-themed art and music by Voices Chamber Choir. Family Prayer Night 6:00-7:30 p.m. A come-when-you-wish child-friendly event. Easter Sunday March 27 Traditional Service 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. With festive music. Chancel Communion service 10:00 a.m.