January 2014 visitor by Asbury First United Methodist Church

TheVisitor

Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter January 2014 • Vol. XLVIII No. 1 • www.asburyfirst.org

In This Issue On Holy Ground, 5 Disaster Outreach, 6 Chacocente, 9 Youth News, 10 New Members, 12 A Year of Thanks, 15

The Visitor

Mission Statement

Vol. XLVIII No. 1

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.

waiting with purpose

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 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 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: Dave Rice captures a quiet moment between services in the Sanctuary on Christmas Eve. 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: Friday, January 31

One of many spiritual practices that enriches my life is to read a prayer daily. Often I turn to Walter Brueggeman’s two prayer books or to Ted Loder’s prayer books for they bring me in touch with the Spirit in poetic words that inspire and describe drawing me deeper into the Spirit’s tether. The other day as snow banked in our back yard and the tiny limbs of our bare dogwood trees became beautifully laden with a layer of snow, I remembered one of Ted Loder’s prayers that speaks so beautifully of this season and paused to read it: “In this season of short days and long nights, of grey and white and cold, teach me the lessons of waiting of the snow joining the mystery of hunkered-down seeds growing in their sleep watched over by gnarled-limbed, grandparent trees resting from autumn’s staggering energy; circling to race back home to the sun. O God, grant me your sense of timing.” There is something about Loder’s words that gives me a sense of purpose and patience in this season of grey and white and cold. It’s purposes seem so often to be hidden in shivering cold and blustery winds. God’s sense of timing has revelation in it. In this “season of short days and long nights, of grey and white and cold,” there are lessons of beginnings, lessons of waiting and lessons of endings to be learned in our hearts. Something new and right and just and different may come out of our waiting and endings … something new, in us, ready to be born can come out of our waiting. Just perhaps in prayerful waiting, we can become more open to the same Spirit who moved over the face of the water in the first day of creation. Just perhaps you and I can spend some time thinking and wondering about all the surprising, ingenious ways God blesses us and all the wondrous gifts God gives us. The prayerful poetry of another can beckon and lure us all more deeply in recognition of the mysterious miracles of life and relationships and continued on next page

AFUMC news Women on Wednesdays explore “Bad Girls” of the Bible

is a separate organization within the church, so this money does not come out of the church operating budget.

Bad Girls of the Bible by Liz Higgs is Women on Wednesday’s (WOW) next book, with discussion starting January 29. Higgs defines badness – or sin – as a heart that’s hardened against God, however temporary the condition or isolated the tough spot. She speaks from experience, as you will find in the introduction. The author divides Bad Girls into groups, with a chapter on each: Eve was the first BG, then Higgs selects three women who were Bad to the Bone, three more who were Bad for a Moment and three more who were Bad for a Season, but Not Forever. Please join WOW for some lively discussion! Subsequent books will be selected by the group from recommendations of pastors and members, visits to bookstores and current topics in the news. Several chapters or sections of the selected book are read and discussed each week, with leadership of the discussion rotating among members. The value of hearing each others’ perspectives and interpretations is an important part of what keeps the group growing, laughing and learning each week. WOW meets every Wednesday from noon to 1 PM in the Dining Room at 1010 East Avenue. Bring a bag lunch and join us. Visitors and new members who enjoy reading and learning are always welcome.

For many years the florists provided the flowers at the same cost of $100 per Sunday without an increase. In 2011 we were working with Stanley Florists and the quality of the arrangements was beginning to be unsatisfactory. We contacted them with specifics and over time there was no improvement, so we felt led to change florists. We contacted several florists for bids and after meeting with them separately, we were astounded at the increase in price which they offered, some as high as $200 a week! Kittelberger Florist provided the lowest bid of $139 a week. We are grateful and excited to be working with them, as they have also provided service to us above and beyond the basic Advent wreath arrangement, photo by Karyl Friedman. expectations.

For many years the Altar Floral Arrangements suggested donation for altar flowers in memory or honor of The floral arrangements, including the poinsettias at Advent someone has been $30. Some people have donated more and the flowers at Easter, on the high altar and two side altars and some have donated less. With the increase in weekly cost are paid for by the Altar Guild with donations given by the and a decrease in weekly donations due to the passing or members of the congregation. Following the 11:00 a.m. serleaving of many faithful, long-time congregation members, vice the altar flowers are delivered by Altar Guild members to the over-all floral fund is currently paying out more than is church members in the hospital or to shut-ins. The Altar Guild coming in. continued on page 11

continued from previous page

ArtSparks Class for Spring

trust that “all will be well” through God’s timing. I have always loved Dag Hammarskjold’s saying:

Drawing and Painting

“For all that has been – Thanks! To all that shall be –Yes!

Mondays, March 31-May 12 1:00-3:00 p.m.

In these “short days and long nights, of grey and white and cold” perhaps you, too, may find a prayer … a moment … to praise God for what is and what is yet to be, and God’s graciousness and creativity can be celebrated even in the midst of banking snow, blustering winds, cold and grey. It is there for our seeking and learning.

Many of those taking the ArtSparks watercolor classes with Rev. Linda Clemow have expressed a desire to learn to draw as well as paint. In this course, you will spend time learning the basics of drawing as they affect

Prayerful blessings,

the process of painting. Please call Linda Clemow at

Rev. Susan S. Shafer

236-1184 to register by March 5.

Asbury First/UR Well Clinic Celebrates Anniversary Asbury/UR Well Clinic celebrating it fifth anniversary on January 14 this year. The mission of this joint ministry between Asbury First and the University of Rochester Medical School is to provide free high-quality preventative and health maintenance services to uninsured and underserved families and individuals of Rochester. We aim to foster the health of our community while promoting the spirit of education, social justice, and collaboration.

newspaper of the Upper New York Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, in September. • The undergraduate public health program at the University of Rochester Medical Center had students satisfy their community service requirement at the Clinic; these students are returning next spring. • Robert Wesleyan Collage’s nursing undergraduates in education and St. John Fisher pharmacology students also satisfied their community services requirement at the Clinic.

In 2013, the Clinic cared for 1600 patients, providing acute care, physical and dermatology services. Some of these patients were foreign travelers who became ill while on vacation here in Rochester and were referred to the Asbury/UR Well Clinic by Strong and/or families. Clinic volunteers and staff provided warm meals to patients while they waited to be seen.

•

Our goals for 2014 are to continue to provide the best health care possible to uninsured and underserved families and individuals who enter our clinic, and to build a trusting and caring relationship with community.

2013 had some other significant milestones: • This past year, the Clinic improved their processes by adding electronic charting, to protect the privacy of patients’ health records.

Thanks to all our Asbury First members and friends for for their gifts, food, and words of appreciation. – Ida Hickman

• We were proud to be featured in a story in the Advocate, the

Our Living Marriages May the blessings of God’s love go with you in your new covenant. David Ward and Barbara Clayton, married on December 6, 2013. Taylor Dennison and Emily Lamica, married on December 31, 2013.

Births & Baptisms God has sealed you unto love and grace divine Olivia Ann Greer daughter of Lauren and John Greer, baptized on November 17, 2013. Olivia is the

Dr. Byron Kennedy, the Director of Monroe County Department Health, recently visited the Asbury/UR Well Clinic and stated that he was” very impressed” with our clinic operation and was enthusiastic about the important community asset we have become.

in Community Deaths

granddaughter of Deborah Foley.

Merciful God, we entrust to your never-failing care and love

Lydia Mary Francis daughter of David and Kelsey Francis, baptized on December 29, 2013.

We offer our prayers and sympathy to Pamela ShultzPye and family on the death of Pamela’s mother in Michigan.

Ava Mae Reynolds daughter of Wendy and Frank Reynolds, baptized on December 29, 2013.

We offer our prayers and sympathy to Sue Bickel on the death of her mother on December 3, 2013.

Austin Frederick Anderson son of Lindsey and David Moore, born on December 25, 2013 in Santa Cruz, CA. Austin is the grandson of Don and Jan Anderson.

We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Elaine Gompf who died on December 7, 2013. 4

We offer our prayers and sympathy to Jeanne and David Strong and family on the death of Jeanne’s mother Marian Rupp on January 8, 2014. We offer our prayers and sympathy to Christine and Bruce Steele on the death of Christine’s father Donald Dambrowski on January 7, 2014.

on holy ground Endings, Beginnings, and Continuings by Marty Garland Endings: I marvel at how quickly 2013 has come to a close. I know older people have told me that time goes faster the older you get, but I think the time goes very fast now – of course, I haven’t gotten any older! It is the ending of one more year of my life, but that’s about all. Beginnings: I have always loved the New Year! A time to start over – to really do those things that I told myself at the beginning of last year I would do. Alas, most of those good intentions dwindled as the days, weeks, and months sped along, and that will probably happen again this year. But that’s okay. The important thing is to BEGIN – whatever it is. I think beginning is the hard part of trying to practice a new habit, clearing out clutter, finding new areas of service, or anything else a person feels led to do. Sometimes the habit is established, sometimes the clutter is sorted through, sometimes we get involved in new areas of service… and it works for us. Sometimes, not. Continuings: Last year we began the “On Holy Ground” section of The Visitor and it continues! The labyrinth and Taize ser-

in a rush to get somewhere or find someone I need to talk with about work or church or social details.

vice continue. We will continue to explore, encourage, and live our faith with each other in community. Our focus in the fall was our relationship with God. We continue on with that relationship to explore and experience at a deeper level how God’s love can be spread through listening to others. I prefer to be more of a listener than a talker, but I am frequently aware of how little I really “LISTEN” to someone. Usually, I have an agenda of details to explain, or I am thinking of what I will say when the other stops speaking, or I am mentally in the past or the future with some memory or thought. I want to be more able to really listen to others and not be

FOR REFLECTION “I am leading you along a way that is uniquely right for you. The closer to Me you grow, the more fully you become your true self – the one I designed you to be. Because you are one of a kind, the path you are traveling with Me diverges increas-

I confess that I have an addiction. Actually I have several, but the one I most love is that of reading Daily Devotional books. I read three at breakfast time: The Upper Room, Jesus Calling, and Guideposts’ Book for the Year. I have another book at work, and I have two others at home, one which even has a reading for the morning and one for the evening! It is so easy for me to get distracted, lose my focus, get caught up in thinking I should be solving other people’s problems, etc., that by reading these short, daily messages written by people of various backgrounds I am more able to forgive myself and get back on track. Last fall I began a plan to read the Bible in a year and am on course. I have done other Bible studies in the past, but I began this program because I wanted to learn who God is. What I am realizing is that doing all of these readings is helping me to develop and nuture my relationship with the living God who loves me and others in a way that I don’t think I will ever be able to comprehend intellectually. So, I invite you to join us in reviewing 2013 to see how God has worked in our lives, in beginning to practice new habits that will allow God’s love to enable us to really listen to others, and in continuing to seek for HOLY GROUND.

ingly from that of other people. However, in My mysterious wisdom and ways, I enable you to follow this solitary path while staying in close contact with others. In fact, the more completely you devote yourself to Me, the more freely you can love people. Marvel at the beauty of a life intertwined with My Presence. Rejoice as we journey together in intimate communion. Enjoy the adventure of finding yourself through losing yourself in Me.” from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Reading for December 30, p. 381 5

Labyrinth

•

Wednesday, February 12

Outreach news Early Reponse Teams Bring Comfort and Willing Hands to Disaster-Stricken Regions

uring June of this past summer 12

As we drove to the home we saw huge

counties in Central and Northern

piles of debris outside each home as

New York faced unrelenting rain and

people got rid of their damaged posses-

disastrous flooding. There was more

sions. Most homes had been flooded up

32 million dollars of damage from the

to six feet on the first floor. When we got

flooding. Many thousands of people were

to the home we moved slowly at first as

impacted.

we met the homeowners. I could see this

The Methodist Church, through UMCOR

would not be easy for them. Our team ERT leader talked to the homeowners

(United Methodist Committee on Relief),

to get a sense of how they were feeling.

has developed a program to provide

After we were given the okay we started

disaster emergency help. Volunteers are

the rebuilding process. Drywall had to be

trained to work in small groups helping

stripped down to the studs to prevent

homeowners. These ERT (Early Response

additional mold. Some members of our

Team) members are not the first respond-

team went into the basement and began

ers in a disaster. That is done by police,

cleaning with a pressure washer. Even

firemen and trained professionals. Emer-

the hardwood floors in the house had to

gency Reponse Teams are activated dur-

be removed as they were buckling. The

ing the second phase of a disaster when

final process involved cleaning the walls

local pastors ask for help. All teams are

twice using Clorox. We spent two days

self-sufficient and able to sustain them-

working on the house and then started

selves so as not to add to the confusion.

working on another house on the third

Even though the possible life-threatening trauma of disaster has passed there are

day.

many issues a homeowner must face.

The best part of the trip was our nightly

What do I now do? What do I do with my

group discussions about what we had

house? What do I replace? How do I deal with mold? During this past summer more than

Scenes from flooded Oneida region where Asbury Firstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Early Response Team worked last summer. Photos courtesy of John Smalt.

done that day. We talked with each other about the many spiritual aspects of our work. All of us came away with a better understanding how helping others starts

250 homes and businesses in the city of

days long. The work was both physically

Oneida flooded. A call was made by the

and mentally tiring but very rewarding.

with just small steps.

Methodist pastor for ERT groups to help

The first morning we drove to the flood

If you are interested in working with

people with the flooding. Our group traveled together in cars and used the Methodist church as our base camp. There were seven men, two women, and two eighteen year olds working in our group. Our stay as a group was only three

command center in Oneida, located in a Kmart parking lot. Many different national agencies were set up there to help people. At the main table we signed in and were assigned a home that needed help.

ERT disaster help you will need to take a training class offered through the United Methodist Church. Please contact Bob Castle at 244-3022 or John Smalt 9248624 for more information on this challenging but infinitely rewarding ministry. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;John Smalt

Outreach news Asbury First RAIHN Outreach helps Homeless Families

ost of us don’t know

teer group, ranging in age from

what it feels like to

5 to 83, included members of at

be without a home, but there

least four church congregations,

are families in Rochester who

couples, singles, families, several

struggle with this problem.

parent-child duos, a men’s group,

Asbury First is one of the 14

and a weight-loss support group.

Rochester area churches which

The next RAIHN rotation at

has stepped up to help those

Asbury First is March 2-9, and

families—providing safe shelter

volunteers are needed! It’s an

and nourishing food to parents

opportunity to sign up with

and children in need.

family and friends for a good

2014 marks the 10th year that

cause. There are currently three

Asbury First has served as a host church in the RAIHN (Roch-

Asbury First church groups participating in RAIHN: the Men’s

ester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network) program. As a host

Prayer Group, the TOPS weight-loss group, and Embrace. The

church, Asbury First is home for homeless families for one week

invitation is out for any other church groups (Sunday School Class,

four times a year. The most recent RAIHN week at Asbury First

Bible Study, etc.) to participate in RAIHN. No prior experience is

was November 24-December 1.

required and groups and individuals are all welcomed.

At the last Asbury First RAIHN week, 67 people volunteered to

The Asbury First RAIHN program has a continuing need for

help create a home and meals. They provided hospitality to five

volunteers, especially for evening hospitality, Saturday shifts, and

homeless families– eight adults and seven children (ranging from

overnights. If you want to be a part of this important volunteer

ten months to age 11). The volunteers worked 400.5 hours, making

effort, please contact Chris and Doug Lee at (585) 451-7692 or

beds, preparing and serving meals, visiting with the families, clean-

c_s_lee29@msn.com or Melody Guadagnino at the church office,

ing and helping out where needed. Our inter-generational volun-

585-271-1050, ext. 103.

Meeting Betty: Reflecting on Our Small World and Asbury First’s Outreach Ministries

t has been a privilege the

dance, I found myself looking

go to church?” Her reply was,

sured her that I would and sure

last few years, for my

at a grandmother figure who

“Zion Church.” “No,” I said,

enough, on Tuesday morning

husband, Len, to take photos

had come to the dance with her

“my church is Asbury First.”

she was there with, this time,

of the mother/son and father/

grandson. As they approached

“Oh,” she said, “they have the

her nephew. We gave each other

daughter dance at School

the table to pay for a photo, I

most wonderful breakfasts at

a hug and a new friendship was

#41, where Asbury First has

said, “I have met you somewhere

that church. I go there with my

born. How wonderful it is to

a thriving outreach ministry

before. Where have our paths

daughter.” “So, that’s where I’ve

make connections with those

in helping the students with

crossed?” She thought perhaps I

seen you,” I said. “I help serve

we serve at other places on our

their academic studies. At the

had seen her at other functions

the breakfast there on Tuesday

journey through life. – Nancy

most recent photo session in

at School #41, but I was sure I

mornings.” “Will you be there

Davidow.

November, the mother/son

had not. I asked, “Where do you

this Tuesday?” she asked. I as7

Stewardship news

Something to think about: •

30,000 meals served each year to the homeless.

•

6,000+ families in need given clothing, kitchen supplies, and linens.

•

52 weeks of soaring, spiritual music, faith-filled words and the fellowship of many at our Sunday services.

•

Vibrant children and youth ministries, and numerous groups for all, young and young-at-heart, to study and share their faith.

gramming. For 2014, to maintain programs at last year’s levels, we are short of our final goal by roughly $75,000. We want to THANK YOU if you who have submitted pledges and brought us so close to our goal in these challenging economic times. We will work hard to reward your faith in us this coming year. If you have not made your pledge yet, we’d ask you to consider investing in the lives of all those who are impacted by Asbury First’s ministries. St. Paul, after all, exhorts the early Christians to give without considering the cost: “Now as you excel in everything— in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you—so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking.” (2 Corinthians 8:7).

Every single one of these ministries happens at Asbury First because you and a dedicated group of members and friends give so generously of your skills, your time, and your financial resources. YOU provide the fuel that keeps Asbury First’s flame burning strong.

Your gift, no matter what its size, has a powerful impact on Asbury First’s ministries. We ask you to prayerfully consider pledging to our church, and making a positive difference in the lives of all those who are touched by the ministries of Asbury First.

Each year, we rely on your pledges to fund our annual operating plan (AOP), which provides the material support for all our pro8

• The Miracle of Project Chacocente •

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 Ed. note: Project Chacocente, an outreach ministry of the Upper New York Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (and Asbury First), rescues families who live in the Managua, Nicaragua, city dump. The families are given the means to begin their lives over again in nearby Masaya, with training, education, and the material, emotional, and spiritual support they need to thrive. Recently, Robyn Gage attended a ceremony there for eight families who received final ownership of their new homes. Here is her report.

age five. Currently, there are twelve healthy, happy children running and playing with their friends at Chacocente. Without this project, chances are four of them would have died. What’s the future for Project Chacocente? Although Chacocente Christian School was not a part of the original vision, its impact on the area is without question. Without the opportunity to attend a tuition-free, full-day school, most of these children would not attend school at all. With smaller class sizes, a free lunch (the only meal of the day for most students), qualified teachers and higher academic standards, the school is preparing children for a brighter future. This year, the addition of Grade 11 will enable students to earn a high school diploma. The school operates entirely on donations from the U.S.

I wish each of you could have been at Project Chacocente on January 7 as several families received the deeds to their property. In an emotional ceremony, Founder Cheryl Avery presented eight families with the rights to their homes and two acres of farmland. As I looked at the people I now know as friends, I understood more than ever that I was witnessing a miracle. God held the hands of each one as they faced and overcame fear, malnutrition, depression, illiteracy, lack of a water supply, funding concerns and poor quality schools, as well as challenges such as personality conflicts, boredom and parenting issues.

The families, staff and board of directors are planning Phase II and many ideas are being circulated. Will a church be built on the Chacocente campus? Will aid be given to Chacocente’s neighbors living in poorly constructed, unsafe homes? Will a community center be built for continuing adult education? Will a health center be part of the future? Please pray for God’s guidance as we move forward!

His presence is evident in the way they now conduct their lives. Living in hope and gratitude, they have become new creations! The old is gone and the new has come!

Once again, thank you for making this ministry possible. We hope you will continue to walk with these special people as they spread the blessings they have received to their neighbors!

The families know that Asbury First has supported them through prayer, delegation visits and financial support. They asked me to thank each of you personally and they hope you will visit Nicaragua so they can meet you. They are a most hospitable people!

I leave you with a few of their remarks: “My family now lives together in dignity.”

What has been accomplished?

“Whatever you decide to do, you have my two arms and my two hands to help you.” – Karen

Forty-six people now live together in Christian community far from the Managua Dump. They own the homes they built and the land they farm. They send their children to Chacocente Christian School, which has academic standards far above the state-run schools. Several adults have learned technical skills such as welding, electricity, baking and sewing. Four adults have earned high school diplomas and two adults have earned degrees in English at the University of Central America, increasing their employment opportunities. The women of the project have learned to weave, and sell hammocks and jewelry at local hotels.

“We want to benefit our community and neighbors.” “I want to give a portion of my land to my children so they can live here when I’m gone.” – Manuela “I like how Americans of all denominations come to worship with us.” “It would be beautiful to learn to read better.” – Reyna “I’m thankful for an educational system where my kids can graduate. And I am happy that other kids can come here to a school with clean hygiene and without drugs.” – Marcos

By far, the greatest accomplishment is lives saved. In 2004, when the project began, one of three children living in the dump died before reaching

left to right: Robyn Gage with Nohelia and Dona Reyna; the families celebrate successfully fulfilling their contract and becoming landowners; the celebration included traditional dance performances by young girls of the project; the women of Project Chacocente pose with founder Cheryl Avery.

youth ministry news Youth Usher in New Year with Skiing Fun

Score Some Great Homemade Soup!

Thirteen youth and seven

Sunday, February 3

adults took advantage of

$10/quart

the cold weather and loads

available after all

of snow on January 4 and

Sunday services

ventured down to Bristol Mountain. A few members

There’s nothing better than hot, homemade soup on a cold

of our crew were skiing or

winter’s day – especially on Superbowl Sunday! The youth

snowboarding veterans, but many were trying it for the very

will be selling soup after all services that day in support of

first time. After a few runs on the bunny hill and a learner’s

their youth mission trip. Be sure to mark your calendars and

class offered free to groups, we were all ready to take on the

take home a quart or two to share with your buddies in front

lifts and ride the mountain – though most everyone still stuck

of the TV!

to the green slopes :) – Mike Mullin

You are cordially invited to the Asbury First

Winter Gala

Hosted by the Asbury First Youth Friday, February 14 Fellowship Hall Our youth are once again hosting a church-wide Winter Gala! Please join us for a fun evening of dancing and revelry, fellowship and fun on the evening of St. Valentine’s Day. All proceeds from the event will go to help support our youth missions. Watch the church bulletin and other media outlets for more information on specific time and ticket cost.

class usually has a monthly social, plus a ladies lunch and a men’s lunch activity. We are a very giving group, helping with church projects and supporting our outreach programs. We were appropriately named by our charter members, for we have truly grown in partnership with God and each other to form a loving, caring and supportive extended Christian Family. We welcome all visitors and new members.

AFUMC News, continued from page 3

We are in need of more people to provide donations. For those who can, an increase in the amount of $30 would certainly be helpful. At the same time, we do not want someone to not donate because they are not able to give that much. The more people who provide donations over the course of the year, including the Easter flowers and Advent poinsettias, the better the Altar Guild will be able to cover the increase in cost per week and still be able to provide a beautiful setting for worship.

Giving Thanks With the Gratitude Wall An attitude of gratitude was clearly apparent at Asbury First this past November as a new tradition began at the church: a Gratitude Wall. The brainchild of the church’s Visioning Committee, the wall was placed in the Gathering Center for the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, with an invitation to AFUMC members and friends to write on and post some of the things they were most thankful for. The results were delightful: by Thanksgiving, the wall was covered with hundreds of colorful paper leaves listing the thoughts of many. Jottings ranged from the thoughtful (“all that I have: my family, friends, education, and especially God and my faith”) to the downright silly (“napkins for sticky and messy chicken wings”). It’s clear that the hearts and minds of church-goers were on the things that matter: the most popular item to give thanks for was “family,” with “our church” coming in not far behind.

If you would like to honor or remember family members or friends by providing a donation for flowers on the altar, please contact Jeanne Ristau at 223-4356, preferably by the 15th of the month before the date you’re requesting. Following the 11:00 a.m. service you may pick up your bouquet or request it to be delivered to a shut-in. If you have any questions, please contact Ellen Williams at 248-9064 or Marty Garland at 385-0982. Church Women United News Church Women United is planning for their World Day of Prayer to be held on Friday, March 7 at Asbury First. Worship is planned from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. The speaker this year is our own Rev. Susan Shafer. Everyone is welcome and we hope you will join us. Happy 65th Birthday to the Partnership Class An update from the Partnership Class, via Ed Crosby: The Partnership Class has been together since January 24, 1949. After 65 years we are fortunate to have three of the original charter members – Gloria Steinmiller, Joanne and Ralph Zimmer – still with us. Our class meets each Sunday in the Meditation Room in 1010 East Ave. We have a variety of speakers and our attendance varies from 15-20 people. The

January 25  Acts 9:1-25 26  Acts 9:26-43 27  Acts 10:1-33 28  Acts 10:34-48 29  Acts 11:1-30 30  Acts 12:1-25 31  Acts 13:1-12 February 1  Acts 13:13-35 2  Acts 13:36-52

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Acts 14:1-28 Acts 15:1-21  Acts 15:22-41  Acts 16:1-15  Acts 16:16-40  John 2:1-25  John 3:1-21

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

 

Scripture reading suggestions courtesy of the American Bible Society, www.americanbible.org.

John 3:22-36 John 4:1-26  John 4:27-42  John 4:43-54  1 Corinthians 13:1-13  John 10:1-21  John 10:22-42  

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Matthew 18:1-14 Matthew 19:13-30  Matthew 22:15-40  Leviticus 19:1-18  Deuteronomy 6:1-25  1 John 1:1-2.6  1 John 2:7-29  1 John 3:1-24  1 John 4:1-21  1 John 5:1-21  2 John  3 John  

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!

Ruth McConnell Ruth lives in Pittsford, and is retired. She has four grown children: Marilyn, Carolyn, Elaine, and Alice. Prior to joining Asbury First, Ruth was active in Trinity Federated Church in Naples, N.Y. Her favorite activities include gardening and sewing.

Carol Harrington A city resident, Carol is a sales associate with Palmers Direct to You Market. She’s married to Chuck, and they have two children, Christina and Andrew. Carol is active in the RAIHN outreach program for homeless families, loves to read, sew, and take walks in her spare time.

Martha Sweitzer Martha lives in the city with her partner, Richard. She is a semi-retired elementary teacher who has served as a Sunday school teacher and Stephen Minister at her previous church. When she has time, she likes to crochet, read, and take hikes.

Gail Wold Gail lives in the city. She’s a Registered Nurse, and works as coordinator of New York State-wide school health services. She’s married to Paul, and has three grown children: Lindsay, Michael, and Emily. Her youngest daughter, Emily, also joined Asbury First with this group.

Jeffrey Camardello & Emily Wold Jeffrey and Emily live in the city near Cobbs Hill, and are planning an August 16 wedding this year. Jeffrey is a banker with Canandaigua National Bank, and Emily is an auditor with Price Waterhouse Coopers.

Carol Lamica A resident of Henrietta, Carol is a vocal music teacher with Rush-Henrietta Central Schools. She’s been married to Tim for 22 years, and has three children: Emily, Allison, and Joe. At her previous church, she was director of music for eight years, and has also served as a choir director.

The

Salon Concert Series at A s b u r y F i r s t

S u n d a y, F e b r u a r y 2 | 2 : 0 0 p . m . Mozart Trio in C Major, K 548 Beethoven Trio in B Flat Major, Op. 97 “Archduke”

Featuring Rebecca Pennys, piano; Mikhail Kopelman, violin; and Stefan Reuss, cello. To reserve your tickets call the church office at (585) 271-1050 x103. Tickets are $35/free for students.

Black History Month at Asbury First THE DREAM DEFERRED

Shadows of the Lynching Tree

the Challenge of Institutionalizing Change

Movie and Discussion with Director Carvin Eison Friday, February 21

Monday, February 17 7:00-8:30 pm Asbury First Sanctuary Dr. Bernard Lafayette, an ordained Baptist minister, is a longtime civil rights activist, organizer, and an authority on nonviolent social change. He co-founded the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee in 1960, and he was a core leader of the civil rights movement in Nashville, TN, and Selma, AL. He directed the Alabama Voter Registration Project in 1962, and was appointed by Martin Luther King, Jr. to be national program administrator for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and national coordinator of the 1968 Poor People’s Campaign. This lecture is co-sponsored by Asbury First and the M.K. Gandhi Insititute for Nonviolence.

7:00-9:00 p.m. Fellowship Hall Join filmmaker Carvin Eison for a viewing of his powerful and unsettling film, Shadows of the Lynching Tree, followed by a discussion with the director. Shadows of the Lynching Tree explores the horrific topic of lynching with “impressive artistry,” according to Gannett reviewer Jack Garner. “Eison ... employs fresh interviews with scholars, rare footage and photographs ... “ said Garner, “...but also underscores the topic’s continued relevance by setting it in counterpoint to the recent election of the first African-American president in the United States.” Join us for this thought-provoking look at a dark time in America’s history.

Library news

ebruary provides perfect reading weather. Picture yourself in a comfy chair in a warm place with one of the following recommended books. Join us in exploring the library resources. Take a look at the following 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.

Children: Journey, by Aaron Becker. A NYTimes Best Illustrated Children’s Book of 2013, this wordless picture book is reminiscent of long-time favorite Harold and the Purple Crayon. The illustrations tell the story of a lonely girl who uses red chalk to draw a door on her wall, walking through it into a forest with a winding river and red boat that travels to a castle, a hot-air balloon and all sorts of adventures. Critics say “readers will be both dazzled and spurred on imagined travels of their own.” It will especially please readers ages 4–8.

The Book Thief, by Markus Zusak. We’ve recommended this extraordinary #1 New York Times bestseller before but now that it is out as a movie is all the more reason to read it. Markus Zusak’s unforgettable story is about the ability of books to feed the soul and is recommended for both teens and adults. Liesel Meminger is a foster girl living outside of Munich who shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement. The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins. All three books in the Hunger Games trilogy (The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, and Mockingjay) are available in our library. Although the targeted readers for these books are the age 13-17 youth, they have also become very popular with adults. Two books in the series are out as films with the second film currently in theatres.

Old Turtle, by Douglas Wood. A bestselling fable on ecology and spirituality tells the story of the animals, rocks, waters, and trees of the earth arguing about God. “Is He a wind who is never still? Is He a rock that never moves? Is He high above or here among us?” When asked, wise old turtle quietly answers that God is all of these things.

Adults: Letters from Skye, by Erika Brockmole. Letters from Skye is a story told in letters, spanning two continents and two world wars. It is set in Scotland’s remote Isle of Skye. Cited as “A poignant tale of a stubborn love that bridges the lives and wars of two generations.”

Teens: The Fault in Our Stars, by John Green. This book, especially for readers ages 14-17, is “A poignant tale of a stubborn love that bridges the lives and wars of two generations.” Award-winning-author John Green has written a book considered one that explores the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. by Rachel Joyce. Named one of the best books of the year by the Washington Post, this is a funny, poignant story about an ordinary man on an extraordinary journey. Travel with Harold in this haunting, poignant and wise book that examines love and devotion.

worship schedule WORSHIP Sunday Service Times 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship with Asbury Singers

Sunday february 2 Fourth Sunday after Epiphany Matthew 5:1-12 Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher

10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion

Sunday february 9 Fifth Sunday after Epiphany Matthew 5:13-20 Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher

Allah: A Christian Response, by Miroslav Volf. The question dealt with in this book is: “Is the God of the Qur’an the same as the God of the Bible?” The author argues that while beliefs about God may differ, the object of worship for both religions is the same. Miroslav Volf is the Henry B. Wright Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School and the founding director of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture. (Located in the Spiritual Life Library in 1010 East Ave.) Parenting What Makes A Hero? The Surprising Science of Selflessness, by Elizabeth Svoboda. An interesting investigation into the biology and psychology of why we sacrifice for other people is documented in this book by science writer Svoboda. According to the author, researchers are now applying the lens of science for the first time to study heroism. The question presented is how biology, upbringing, and outside influences intersect to produce altruistic and heroic behavior, and how can we encourage this behavior in corporations, classrooms, and individuals.

11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship with Sanctu- Sunday february 16 Sixth Sunday after Epiphany ary Choir I Corinthians 3:1-9 Sunday january 26 Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher Third Sunday after Epiphany Sunday february 23 Matthew 4:12-23 Seventh Sunday after Epiphany Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher Matthew 5:38-48 Rev. Stephen M. Cady, preacher 14

the last word 1 by Michele Cooley 2

A Year of Thanks Another year has passed at

unteers, who came each

the Asbury Dining and Car-

Sunday.

ing Center, bringing constant

• Recover Rochester, a new

growth, new volunteers and

food donation program

partnerships, generosity and