TheVisitor
Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter June 2015 • Vol. XLIX No. 5 • www.asburyfirst.org
IN THIS ISSUE On Holy Ground, 4 Financial Report, 6-8 Upcoming Events, 9 Hymn Sing, 10 Celebrating Susan, 11 Confirmands, 12 Vacation Bible School, 13
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. 5 (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. POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to
Traditional Worship in our Sanctuary
Asbury First UMC Visitor 1050 East Ave. Rochester, N.Y. 14607-2239 (585) 271-1050
8:30 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday mornings Chancel Worship with Holy Communion
Staff
The Rev. Susan Shafer The Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady II
David Strong Dr. William Weinert Paula Dugan Jessica Burdick-Giordano Mike Mullin Richard Moncrief Melody Guadagnino Ken Carr Michele Cooley Mary Van Keuren Duane Prill Bozena Granat Carol Lamica Elizabeth Church Brian Bohrer Larry Dugan
Senior Minister Minister for Faith Formation – Hospitality & Membership Care Music Administrator; Assistant Organist Director of Music Children’s Ministry Director Children’s Ministry Assistant Director of Youth Ministries Financial Administrator Administrative Assistant Property Care Manager Dining & Caring Center Director Communications Director Organist Director, Children’s Music Director, Youth Music Director, Bell Choir Director, Asbury Singers Director, Youth Theater
Emeriti Staff Rev. Dr. Theodore Weeden, Sr., Pastor Emeritus Dr. Roger Wilhelm, Director of Music Emeritus Marian R. Craighead*, Organist Emeritus *deceased
10:00 a.m. Sunday mornings Listen live 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.
SIGN UP FOR OUR E-NEWSLETTER
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: A greeting from the men at the annual AFUMC men’s retreat, held in May. Left to right: Rick Mittereder, Dave Kay, Greg Johnson, John Foster and Rick Church. Photo by Glenn Peck. Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@asburyfirst.org or (585) 271-1050. Deadline for next issue: Friday, June 5
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Grace in Transition A Pastoral Reflection
In the words of Bob Dylan, “The times they are a-changin’.” Let’s face it, we have experienced more than our fair share of change in the last couple of months. Some of the change has been expected — we knew that we were going to have to say goodbye to the Rev. Lawrence Hargrave upon his retirement in April. Some of the change, however, was not — who could have predicted the number
of deaths within our congregation this year? For better or worse, there are more changes to come—some we are expecting and some by which we will undoubtedly be surprised. We know, for instance, that we are edging ever closer to that day when we will celebrate the ministry of the Rev. Susan Shafer (see page 11 for details) and welcome new ministers into our midst. We don’t know, however, what other changes might come. Although change can be scary, as a people of faith we don’t have to let it overwhelm us. In the midst of uncertainty, we can remind
ourselves of what we know will never change—the grace of God. We know that no matter how much change we face, no matter how we face it, God will be standing by us in love. Though we never really know what a day is going to bring, we know that we don’t have to face it alone. In other words, we are in this together.
survived. Fortunately, we are in a healthy place as a congregation. Our membership is growing, our outreach is broadening, and our faithfulness is deepening. Plus, we have two excellent new ministers joining our pastoral staff!
The good news is that we have a pretty strong track record. In our 195 year history, we have had to weather some fairly major change, from fires to moves to shifts in pastoral leadership. While not all changes were welcomed, all were
The times they are a-changin’, but fortunately for us, the grace of God is not.
I can’t predict everything that lies ahead for us as a congregation, but I could not be more excited about our future together.
Grace and Peace, Stephen
AFUMC news Ministry & Space Update
Bell Choirs Table Pads Replaced
The Ministry & Space Task Force has been studying how we use our campus for the past 2.5 years. In Fall 2014 we held three town hall meetings where we shared our journey and what we had learned. This spring we presented our findings and recommendations to the trustees and church council. Our final step will be a church conference, where we will review what we learned, our church needs, and our recommendations. At that meeting you will be asked to vote on whether to proceed. The next step is hiring an architect to create detailed plans with costs for major maintenance, renovations, and potential new space. The vote will NOT authorize actual building or a capital campaign. The congregation will have an opportunity to review final plans, and will then vote on whether to proceed. In order to give this subject the attention that it deserves and to allow as many people as possible to participate, we will delay the church conference until September. An exact date will be announced this summer. In the meantime, we continue to listen. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact Chuck Hanrahan, chair of the Ministry & Space Task Force at chuck.hanrahan@gmail.com, or (585) 383-8794.
Did you know that what’s under the tablecloths that cover the handbell choir tables is an important part of the choir’s equipment? These foam pads protect the bells from being damaged and allow for multiple ringing A bell room table with thick, fabrictechniques, and they take a lot covered foam pads and music stands. of wear and tear. They desperately needed to be replaced! Sandra Holloway, a member of the Asbury Ringers, saw the need and coordinated a pad replacement plan. Asking the Ringers if they would contribute toward the new pads, Sandra was able to collect $700+ to replace the pads and purchase muslin that could be made into protective covers. Sandra and her crew – husband Dave and son Brian, Nancy and Dave Behnk, and Tracey Krimbill – sewed covers for the pads. Thank you to all who contributed and to Sandra for her vision in making this a reality! Update: Miracle Garden Home and School, India Have you see the green and white cardboard box in the Welcoming Foyer with a picture of kids from Miracle Garden? Ever wonder why it’s there? It began when we initiated Imagine It Continued on page 5
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on holy ground Created by the Center for Spiritual Life, On Holy Ground highlights opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal. I’ll walk with God from this day on, His helping hand, I’ll lean upon. This is my prayer, my humble plea, May the Lord be ever with me (from “I’ll Walk with God” by Nicholas Brodzsky and Paul Francis Webster)
The 3 Rs of Walking the Labyrinth The walk into the center, or the rosette area, is one of releasing or quieting your mind … letting go of your burdens. Many walkers carry a stone with them to help them stay focused. Or, if you are uplifting someone in prayer, you can use the stone to center your prayers. Upon reaching the center, this is a time for receiving. In the quietness of the moment, listen to what God is telling you. Spend as much time in the center as you wish, returning by the same path that led you in, hopefully refreshed from your experience.
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f you and God went for a walk, what would you share? Walking on the labyrinth at Asbury First is a walk with God. Once you have realized that the floor in Fellowship Hall has a labyrinth cut into the tiles, you are halfway there! The labyrinth is staffed with stewards (in case you have any questions) on the second Wednesday of every month from 5:00-7:00 p.m. This past Lenten season brought many people to the labyrinth – some new and some familiar walkers. Children came with their families and skipped around, happy to follow the path and look at the messages printed on the stones. Others came with problems to be solved. Still others walked with praise on their lips and thoughts of thankfulness in their hearts. All came to take a walk with God, to unburden and listen to God. The labyrinth provides a sacred space to make that connection.
The center, or the rosette area, of the labyrinth is made up of six petals. The rose symbolizes enlightenment. The six petals represent the six days of creation in addition to the six stages of planetary evolution. Starting on the left as you enter, the first petal is mineral, followed by vegetable, animal, human, angelic, and mystery.
Prior to having the labyrinth installed in Fellowship Hall, a canvas labyrinth was available at Asbury First and was laid down when needed. On October 11, 2006, the inlaid tile labyrinth was opened to the church family for the first time. Its ministry has been quiet and meaningful to those who have walked and shared a conversation with God. We all need quiet space to encounter God. As the summer draws near and life slows down a bit, consider a walk with God on the labyrinth.
Want to find out more about labyrinths? Do you wish to help others find the peace you’ve found yourself through walking the labyrinth? Consider joining the Labyrinth Committee! To do so, please contact Linda Freed at 223-9092 or Charlotte Craig at 473-9674
Read SENSIBLE SHOES This Summer
Labyrinth
Add the book Sensible Shoes: A Story About the Spiritual Journey, by Sharon
Wednesday., June 10 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Garlough Brown, to your summer reading list. You’ll find out, among other things, how walking the laby-
Join us for this reflective peaceful practice designed to help you reconnect with God and your spiritual self.
rinth aided the protagonists on their spiritual journey. The book will be available for sale in the Welcoming Hall on June 21, July 12, and August 9. We will welcome the author to Asbury First on Saturday, September 19 to share her insights into faith and spirituality. 4
AFUMC news, continued from page 3
Recycling as a way to support our environment by recycling and to raise funds for the orphanage and school. As electronics of all size and shape have become a part of our daily lives, so have their waste. By depositing our recyclables in the box provided, we keep these harmful materials from entering our landfills, and we receive a refund for each item. Please keep bringing in your items from your home or office and deposit them in the Imagine It cardboard box. To clarify, we collect: •
Ink cartridges
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Laser/toner drums & fusers
•
PDAs, Cell Phones, MP3s and all accessories, batteries and cords for these items.
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Our Living Births & Baptisms God has sealed you unto love and grace divine Julia Martine Darman daughter of Jeremy and Laura Darman, born on April 13, 2015. Wayne Turnblom and Katie Shirer are the proud grandparents. Adalynn Grace VanEpps daughter of Jesse and Holly VanEpps, born on April 29, 2015. Parker Maurice Zimmer son of Michelle and Jeffrey Zimmer, baptized on April 26, 2015. Ralph and Joanne Zimmer are the proud grandparents.
Portable electronics such as digital cameras, laptops, camcorders, GPS devices, satellite radios, DVD players, USB memory keys, gaming devices and external hard drives.
Nathan James Shearer son of Amanda and Michael Shearer, baptized on April 26, 2015.
Please no printers, TVs or computers.
in Community Madelyn Adele Huntley daughter of Sarah and Michael Huntley, baptized on May 10, 2015.
Deaths Merciful God, we entrust to Your never-failing care and love. We offer our prayers and sympathy to Annette and Jim Farrington on the death of Annette’s father Richard Barnett on April 17, 2015 in West Memphis, Arkansas. We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Pepper Wolf who died on April 29, 2015. We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Carl Pollack who died on April 29, 2015.
worship schedule WORSHIP
Since we began collecting these recyclables in March of 2013 we have processed 1,210 items and received $380 from your “trash” for the Miracle Garden School in India. Thank you for your participation in this ministry that helps here in the U.S and across the world.
SUNDAY SERVICE TIMES 8:30 a.m. – Traditional Worship 10:00 a.m. – Chancel Worship with Holy Communion 11:00 a.m. – Traditional Worship
Campus Caretaker Joins Staff Asbury First is pleased to announce that James Flack has joined the church maintenance staff as campus caretaker. James will live in the apartment on the third floor of 1010 East Ave. As campus caretaker, he will work with the property care staff, helping the sextons as needed and ensuring campus security during evening hours. A native Rochesterian, James previously worked for People, Inc., a non-profit agency that provides services for those with disabilities. In James Flack his spare time, James enjoys music. He has one son, who is a chef in California. Please give him a warm Asbury First welcome when you see him!
NOTE: We move to summer hours on Sunday, June 14. Services will be held at 8:30 a.m. (chancel worship with communion), and 10:00 a.m. (traditional worship). SUNDAY MAY 24 Memorial Sunday/Pentecost Acts 2:1-21 Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher SUNDAY MAY 31 Trinity Sunday 5
John 3:1-17 Guest preacher
SUNDAY JUNE 7 Seond Sunday After Pentecost 1 Samuel 8:4-20 Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady, preacher SUNDAY JUNE 14 Youth Sunday youth leaders, preachers (two services, at 8:30 and 10:00 a.m.) SUNDAY JUNE 21 Fourth Sunday After Pentecost/ Father’s Day Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady, preacher
ASBURY FIRST UMC Income
2014 Actual
Pledge Donations
$ 410,297
$ 420,886
$ 429,439
Unpledged Donations
$ 16,516
$ 25,000
$ 24,923
Designated Gifts
$ 223,385
$ 58,967
$ 49,472
Other Contributions
$ 7,668
$ 4,510
$ 6,235
Subtotal Contributions
$ 657,866
$ 509,363
$ 510,069
Designated Fundraising
$ 42,503
$ 36,550
$ 33,768
Property Usage
$ 27,745
$ 28,576
$ 24,575
Endowment Income
$ 156,874
$ 153,678
$ 139,409
Other
$ 936
$ 800
$ 400
TOTAL
$ 885,924
$ 728,967
$ 708,221
Carryover from previous year
$ 129,730
$ 129,730
$ 198,759
800
600
400
200
2014 ACTUAL / $708,221
2015 Plan
2015 PL AN / $728,967
2015 Actual
2015 ACTUAL / $885,924
Janu ar y - A pr il 2015 Fin anc i al R e p or t
Income
1000
0
In total, the income received during the first four months was $885,924 against a plan of $728,927. This large difference is because of the gifts received establishing the pastoral care endowment and the designated payments received for the spiritual life pilgrimage (following the journeys of Paul in Greece and Turkey). If these designated gifts are excluded ($170,000), we are actually behind in the income that has been budgeted. Highlights of the first four months are:
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PLEDGED DONATIONS: We have received
have been recorded. Otherwise, designated giving contin-
$410,297 from members of the congregation who
ues as we had thought it would and remains very strong.
made pledges (including new member pledges).
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OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS: This is the plate col-
While this is behind our annual plan, it is early in the year still, and the timing of receipts of pledges frequently changes year-to-year.
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last year, despite a very blustery February. DESIGNATED FUNDRAISING: Fundraising for
UNPLEDGED DONATIONS: These are gifts
the Dining and Caring Center, Storehouse and youth
that can be tracked from both non-members
mission trip remains on plan and very strong. In-
and members of the congregation who did not
make pledges. This number is very difficult to forecast as it is based on trends over previous years. As we progress through the year, we will keep a close eye on this category of income.
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lections from services. This amount is more than
cluded in this was the generous transfer of $5,000 from the Outreach Committee to the Dining and Caring Center.
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CARRYOVER FROM LAST YEAR: These funds
remain from previous last year’s budget. They are
DESIGNATED GIFTS: This is where the $139,400 of gifts to the pastoral care endowment and the
a mix of designated gifts and unrestricted funds to
run the church. We have used very little of this number so far this year, which means we are spending only what we receive.
$30,000 of receipts for the spiritual life journey
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Financial Summary / January 1–April 30, 2015
Expenses
1000
2014 Actual
$ 330,605
$ 314,843
$ 309,621
Utilities and maintenance
$ 122,663
$ 126,106
$ 123,342
Administrative
$ 27,979
$ 27,018
$ 16,775
Conference Apportionment
$ 58,113
$ 58,925
$ 57,398
Worship & Devotional
$ 55,942
$ 16,967
$ 15,356
Education
$ 23,878
$ 14,883
$ 24,329
Communications
$ 12,890
$ 9,550
$ 14,896
Membership Care
$ 5,615
$ 3,658
$ 4,487
Outreach
$ 91,531
$ 95,690
$ 89,729
Special Admin
$
$ 0
$
TOTAL
$ 806,216
$ 667,640
$ $655,933
800
600
400
77,000
0
200
0
Through the first four months of the year, we have spent $806,216 which is nearly $140,000 more than we had planned. However, this amount includes $30,000 of payments for the spiritual life journey that members of the congregation paid for (noted in income section also) and a $75,000 transfer of designated funds received into a permanent endowment for pastoral care. When backing out those items, we are $25,000 over in spending so far this year. That will be explained below:
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time, we have spent $16,000 more than planned; however
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$5,000 of that is timing. These necessary expenditures re-
for the year.
sult in a strong, talented pastoral and lay staff committed
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STAFFING: The staff is in transition with two from the pastoral staff retiring and a change in the property manager position. At the current
to serving the people and ministries of Asbury First.
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UTILITIES AND MAINTENANCE: We have weathered the worst Mother Nature could throw at us and have remained under budget on gas and electric. CONFERENCE CONNECTIONAL: The monthly transfer of funds to the Conference is right where it had been planned for the first four months.
WORSHIP AND DEVOTIONAL: This spending category is much higher than plan, however it contains the $30,000 of payments for the spri-
tual life journey and is not an impact to the total budget
EDUCATION: This category includes earlier spending than planned for the annual youth mission trip. The trip is self-funded and not an impact
to the total budget for the year. SPECIAL ADMIN: In total, we have spent $168,531 in the first four months for specific outreach efforts. This amount includes the $77,000
transfer from designated funds to the pastoral care endowment.
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Janu ar y - A pr il 2015 Fin anc i al R e p or t
Staffing
2014 ACTUAL / $655,933
2015 Plan
2015 PL AN / $667,640
2015 Actual
20115 ACTUAL / $806,216
Expenses
Where the Money Comes From
Where the Money Goes
Other
Property Usage
Special Admin
Endowment Income Outreach
Designated Fundraising
Membership Care Communications Education
Other Contributions Designated Gifts
Utilities & Maintenance
Worship & Devotional
Janu ar y - A pr il 2015 Fin anc i al R e p or t
Staffing
Pledge Donations
Conference Apportionment
Unpledged Donations
Administrative
In Summary
Financial Audit Completed
THE FIRST FOUR months contain many one-time designated fund activities which make understanding where we are financially difficult, so let me make it simple. We are about $10,000 behind in income (mainly due to timing on receipt of pledges) and we have spent $15,000 more than planned (excluding items that will reduce as the year goes by). However, we are confident that as the year continues, our overall financial position, guided by the continued wisdom and stewardship of our leaders, will remain strong.
AS WAS MENTIONED IN THE LAST Charge Conference, the Finance Committee has moved the frequency of the full external audits to every three years, and in the two between years, have an external accounting firm review all our financial practices and controls to ensure everything is being managed correctly. We have done this not because we have ever found problems, but instead in recognition of the amount of funds flowing through Asbury First and the need for unquestioned care in the handling of those funds. In April, the Raymond F. Wager CPA firm reported their finding from the review of the policies governing the handling of the funds of the church. The policies and processes reviewed fell into the
Doug Major Chair, Finance Committee
categories of: • • • • • • •
Segregation of duties Adequate back-up for our financial administrator On-line banking policies Cash receipt processing Cash disbursement processing Payroll transactions Bank reconciliations
There were no major weaknesses found in our processes, but there are a number of actions suggested by the auditors that the Finance Committee will be working on over the course of the year. This new process audit practice is an excellent additional step taken to ensure the pledges and other gifts to the church are under control and well managed.
A supplement to the Asbury First newsletter, The Visitor
upcoming events
GIVE BLOOD SAVE A LIFE
Asbury First United Methodist Church Presents
2015 Golf Tournament
Donate Blood at the Asbury First Blood Drive
Monday, July 13
When: Sunday, June 21, 7:30 a.m.-12
Eagle Vale Golf Course 4344 Nine Mile Point Rd. Fairport, NY 14450
noon Where: Fellowship Hall (downstairs in church building)
To register or for information about sponsorships contact charitygolf@asburyfirst.org. All proceeds support Asbury First outreach ministries. A portion of the cost is tax deductible as a contribution to Asbury First.
Who: You are eligible to give blood if you are: in good health; between 17 and 75 years of age (or 16 and accompanied by a parent). If you
12 noon
Registration & Lunch
are over 75 and have not donated recently, check with your
1:00 p.m.
Shotgun start
doctor); weigh at least 110 pounds; and meet qualifications.
5:00 p.m.
Silent auction
Questions? Check the Red Cross web site at http://www.
6:00 p.m.
Chicken Pasta Buffet
redcrossblood.org/ for a list of criteria and more information.
$100/person or $400/team (includes 18 holes with cart, lunch and dinner.) Tickets for dinner only: $40.
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Call Ed Ristau to set up your appointment at 223-4356.
•
Come One, Come All to the Annual
Summer Carnival & Picnic
Save the Date! Join us at the Asbury First Annual
Ice Cream Social with
New Horizons Band
Sunday, June 7 noon to 2 pm Granger Street Lawn
Tuesday, June 9 7:00 p.m. Listen to the New Horizons Band while enjoying lemonade and an ice cream sundae. Concert is free; nominal charge for refreshments. Some chairs provided. In case of rain, we’ll move to the Gathering Center.
Celebrate the end of our spring ‘15 programming and the arrival of summer! We’ll have a bounce house
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and other activities for the kids, and hot dogs and watermelon for all. Everyone is welcome, no matter what your age. Join us for fun and fellowship! 9
•
music
&
the a r t s Hymn Sing on Sunday morning, June 21
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f you enjoy singing hymns, then plan on being in the Sanctuary on Sunday, June 21 at 9:45 a.m. In preparation for the 10:00 a.m. summer worship service, the prelude music will be a fifteen-minute hymn sing. Hymn requests will be received from the congregation. Our United Methodist hymnal includes a rich tradition of hymns, psalms, and responses spanning over five centuries. Included are 51 hymns, 8 poems, and 6 responses by Charles Wesley (17071788), who wrote the words to more than 6,000 hymns. A few of his familiar hymns that we sing at Asbury First include: Christ the Lord is Risen Today; Hail the Day that Sees Him Rise; Hark! The Herald Angels Sing; O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing; Love Divine, All Loves Excelling; Come Thou Long Expected Jesus; Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending; Rejoice, the Lord is King; Ye Servants of God; Forth in Thy Name, O Lord; and Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies. Charles Wesley’s son, Samuel Sebastian Wesley, composed the music to Lead Me, Lord and The Church’s One Foundation.
We also sing many hymns with words written by another Englishman, Isaac Watts (1674-1748), including Joy to the World; Come Ye that Love the Lord; Jesus Shall Reign; O God, Our Help in Ages Past; When I Survey the Wondrous Cross; This is the Day That the Lord Has Made; Come, We That Love the Lord; Marching to Zion; and I Sing the Mighty Power of God. While the Wesleyan hymns are the cornerstone of our Methodist hymnal, there are hundreds of composers and poets/lyricists represented. Your favorite hymns could have been written in the twentieth century, by Johann Sebastian Bach or Felix Mendelssohn, or in the traditions of cultures from Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and the United States. Come ready to choose your favorite hymn on June 21 for the congregation to sing. As John Wesley wrote in his directions for singing (see page vii of our hymnal): “Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every word you sing.” – Jeanne Strong. photo by Glenn Peck.
Women’sRetreat
• Saturday-Sunday, June 13-14
Walking
• Camp Asbury, Silver Lake, N.Y.
Simply
• $90/person (due by June 1 to the church office) – includes Saturday lunch and dinner; Sunday breakfast.
With Christ
• Single or double rooms available. • A weekend of serenity, stress relief, stretching, silence, songs, sharing, smiles, and Scripture focused on the theme of “Walking Simply with Christ.” • Register by contacting Melody Guadagnino in the church office at (585) 271-1050 x103 or mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org. 10
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Celebrating Susan u
For the next few months, we’ll be celebrating the ministry of our senior minister, the Rev. Susan S. Shafer, as she prepares for retirement this summer. Here’s how you can participate.
S u san Mo me nts
Church-Wide Service and Celebration
For a gift that we’re creating for Susan, we’re looking for your “Susan Moment” – those times when Susan’s gifts of compassionate ministry touched your life, whether it was a time of joy or a time of challenge or sorrow. Share your Susan Moment by sending it to susanmoments@asburyfirst.org. We are also collecting photos of Susan from throughout her ministry at Asbury First. Send them to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@ asburyfirst.org, or drop them off in the church office.
Sunday, June 28 10:00 a.m. service, followed by luncheon On June 28, we’ll celebrate Susan in our worship service (note: there will only be one service that day, at 10:00 a.m.), followed by a luncheon on the lawn (there is no charge for the luncheon). There will be an opportunity for you to wish her well as she enters this new phase of her life.
Th e R e v. S u sa n S . S h a f e r Pa sto r al Ca r e E n d o w me n t
C e leb ratory Di nn er Saturday, June 27 6:00 p.m. reception; 7:00 dinner Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center Cost: $50/person
The Rev. Susan S. Shafer has impacted thousands of lives in her 34 years of ministry at Asbury First United Methodist Church. Her extraordinary gifts for pastoral care have brought comfort, strength, and a powerful sense of Christ’s presence to both members of Asbury First and countless individuals in the greater Rochester community. Now, as she prepares for retirement, we honor her ministry by ensuring that her legacy of care will live on at Asbury First through an endowed pastoral care position in her name.To donate or make a pledge to this fund, go to our website at www.asburyfirst.org and click on the link on the home page.
You are cordially invited to an evening of celebration in Susan’s honor at the Convention Center. RSVP online at www. asburyfirst.org (an online payment option is available), or by sending your check made out to Asbury First United Methodist Church (please write “Susan’s dinner” in the memo line) to us at 1050 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14607. Please let us know the names of those attending, and if you have any special dietary and/or other assistance needed. 11
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youth ministry news
s our school year is winding down, this year’s class of eighth grade confirmation students are winding up to become full members of the Asbury First United Methodist Church community. We are excited to be celebrating this event with the whole church on Sunday, May 17. In honor of this occasion, we asked each of our confirmands a few questions so that we all might get to know each of them a little better prior to confirmation Sunday. Leaz Sheeran School: The Harley School “My favorite memory is working at Vacation Bible School, helping younger kids do arts and crafts.”
Ben Conrow Spry Middle School “My favorite Asbury First memory is Pretzel Sunday. I’m most looking forward to the senior high mission trips. Hannah May Beamish Willink Middle School in Webster “My memory is collecting sea glass with my friends at the beach at the girls’ retreat.”
Elizabeth Joy Roote Gates-Chili Middle School “My favorite memory was the middle school mission trip to Niagara Falls. I’m looking forward to the trip to the Adirondacks.”
Anna Lee Latshaw The Charles Finney School “My favorite memory is getting to perform with an amazing cast while doing the youth musical Fiddler on the Roof.”
William Robert McGraw Twelve Corners Middle School “My favorite memory was participating in the holiday pageants and receiving my third grade bible. I want to join the church because it is where EVERYBODY is accepted for who they are.”
Eric Thomas Linehan Calkins Road Middle School “I love the youth group and how everyone has been so nice and welcoming to me since I’ve moved here.”
Michael Price Twelve Corner Middle School “My favorite memory is participating in Pretzel Sunday activities.”
Allison Nicole Czora Willink Middle School “I am looking forward to exploring United Methodism and my personal faith journey. My favorite memories are being an angel in the Christmas pageant and processing in-gathering donations for the DCC.”
Julianna Nichols Dake Jr. High School “I am looking forward to being able to be play a bigger role in the church.” Hayden Patrick Headley Baytrail Middle School “My favorite church memories are sleepovers at 1050 East Ave.”
Benjamin Mack Willink Middle School “My favorite church memory is taking ghost tours during sleepovers in 1050.”
Christopher Hamilton Rochester Prep West “One thing I enjoy about Asbury First is meeting new people. I enjoy the classes because I made new friends and have fun there. I’d like to thank Arleen Barnett for introducing me to Asbury First.”
McKenzie Flynn Dake Junior High School “I remember going to Camp Casowasco and all of the great friends I’ve made through Asbury First. I’m looking forward to the mission trip.” 12
Vacation Bible School Come One, Come All to our “Under the Big Top” VBS on August 3-6 from 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Asbury First UMC. VBS is for children from ages four through those entering sixth grade. Cost is $15.00 per child with a maximum of $40.00 per family. Make checks payable to Asbury First United Methodist Church. Child’s Name
Age
Allergies
T-Shirt Size
PARENT/GUARDIAN INFORMATION Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Name____________________________________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________________________________________________ Phone_________________________ Cell_________________________Email____________________________ Best number to be reached during VBS hours________________________________________________________
MEDICAL INFORMATION Please list any special instructions or conditions VBS volunteers should be aware of:____________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ Emergency Contact ___________________________________________________________________________ Relationship to child(ren) ______________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________________________ Cell____________________________________________ Medical Insurance Company ____________________________________________________________________ In the event of an emergency or injury, I do hereby give consent to Asbury First United Methodist Church to administer the necessary medical treatment. Signature of parent/guardian____________________________________________ Date ____________________ Please list the people who have the permission to pick up your child(ren):____________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________
VOLUNTEER INFORMATION Would you like to be a VBS Volunteer? In what area(s) would you like to help (circle one or more)? Registration Music Student guide Games Bible Stories Crafts Snack Nursery Caregiver Do you have any children under four that would need childcare when you volunteer? If yes, please list names and ages. ___________________________________________________________________________________________
On Thursday evening, August 6, we’ll celebrate the end of a great week with dinner at Asbury First’s Big Top tent. Questions? Contact Paula Dugan, (585) 271-1050 x111 or pdugan@asburyfirst.org. 13
library news Books for all ages and on all topics can be found in the church resource library. Take a look at the following books. They have been selected as featured books for June and are available in the library’s collection of books for children, youth, and adults. Children: Last Stop on Market Street, by Matt de la Pena. This story of a young boy and his grandmother is considered “2015’s first must-read picture book.” In this 32-page book, especially for ages three through five, a young boy yearns for what he doesn’t have, but his Nana teaches him to find beauty in what he has and can give, as well as in the city where they live.
Adult: The Book of Forgiving, by Desmond Tutu and Mpho Tutu. Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Prize winner, along with his daughter, the Reverend Mpho Tutu, offers a 240-page manual on the art of forgiveness—helping us to realize that we are all capable of healing and transformation. Tutu says that the four important steps to healing are: admitting the wrong and acknowledging the harm; telling one’s story and witnessing the anguish; asking for forgiveness and granting forgiveness; and renewing or releasing the relationship.
Golden Rule, by Ilene Cooper, Gabi Swiatowska (illustrator). This 32-page book for ages four through eight is a gentle reminder of the timeless rule of do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Everyone knows a version of the Golden Rule. But what does it really mean? And how do you follow it? In this gorgeously illustrated book, a grandfather explains to his grandson that the Golden Rule means you “treat people the way you would like to be treated.”
Parenting: A Moment’s Peace for Mothers: A Mom’s Guide to Creating Calm in the Midst of Chaos, by Elizabeth Irving. This 204-page guide provides busy moms with skills and techniques to create their own sense of peace and face daily challenges. The step-by-step plans incorporate a series of relaxation techniques, hints for developing meaningful family rituals, instructions for gentle but powerful breathing, and body awareness skills.
Youth: This Star Won’t Go Out: The Life and Words of Esther Grace Earl, by Esther Earl. This New York Times Bestseller is in full color and illustrated with art and photographs. It is a collection of the journals, fiction, letters, and sketches of the late Esther Grace Earl, who passed away in 2010 at the age of 16. Essays by family and friends help tell Esther’s story along with an introduction by award-winning author John Green, who dedicated his #1 bestselling novel, The Fault in Our Stars, to her. This 448-page book is especially appropriate for ages 12-17.
May 24 Acts 2:1-13 25 Acts 2:14-47 26 Galatians 1:1-24 27 Galatians 2:1-21 28 Galatians 3:1-29 29 Galatians 4:1-31 30 Galatians 5:1-26 31 Galatians 6:1-18 June 1 Hosea 1:1-2:1 2 Hosea 2:2-23 3 Hosea 11:1-11
Singers and Music Lovers Young and Old: Then Sings My Soul, by Robert Morgan (books 1-3). These books provide stories, words and music for the most beloved seasonal hymns of faith. They are devotional-style stories that show the emotion and drama behind the hymns of faith that have changed many lives throughout history. “This collection recounts stories of the people whose faith led them to write these hymns and the people whose faith was affected by reading, hearing, and singing the songs.”
4 Hosea 14:1-9 5 Joel 2:1-27 6 Amos 9:1-15 7 Zephaniah 3:1-20 8 Haggai 1:1-15 9 Haggai 2:1-23 10 Zechariah 1:1-21
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 14
Zechariah 2:1-13 Zechariah 3:1-10 Zechariah 4:1-10 Zechariah 8:1-23 Zechariah 9:1-17 Zechariah 10:1-12 Isaiah 51:1-23
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Isaiah 52:1-12 Isaiah 54:1-17 Isaiah 55:1-13 Isaiah 56:1-12 Isaiah 57:1-21 Isaiah 58:1-14 Isaiah 59:1-21 Isaiah 60:1-22 Isaiah 61:1-11 Isaiah 62:1-12 Isaiah 65:17-25 Jeremiah 30:1-24 Lamentations 3:1-58
the last word 1 by Michele Cooley 2
Following Your Dreams
music can save lives. It gives you a good feeling. As a street musician, I have to be
H
ere at the Dining and Caring Center
disciplined. I can play as many or as few
we all have hopes and dreams. There
hours as I want. Sometimes I get anxious
are so many talented guests here just await-
because I put all of my energy into a show.
ing the opportunity, courage, and motiva-
I was playing in Atlanta once when an
tion to start to realize them. Two people
older woman and her daughter asked me
who come to mind are Matthew Corey
if I wrote the song I Think About You.
and James Jackson. They are making their
When I said I did, she asked to buy my
dreams come true. Both are musicians who
CD right on the spot. What a great feeling
connected here at the Dining Center. They
that was, alleviating my anxiety.
didn’t know each other previously but they
Coming to Asbury First is a routine now. I
both came here with guitars, which prompt-
check my e-mail and get a solid breakfast.
ed discussion between them. They were
Through Asbury First, I’ve been able to
attempting to overcome homelessness and mental health issues and were finding their way through their music. They encouraged each other and have come a long way since they first met about a year and a half ago.
James Jackson at the Dining & Caring Center
tions and foster care, where I was badly bullied. She died when I was 14. In foster care you lose the sense of who you are. Many go
get my head straight. It’s a good stepping stone for the rest of the day. I have found a sense of community. Some people here are inspired by what Matt and I are doing. We are breaking out of the box.
I interviewed James to get a perspective on
from the “system” to homelessness and some
his situation and this is what he had to say:
to incarceration. As a homeless man, I ran
I have always been a gypsy and a nomad.
from the shelters, which reminded me of the
This is the first time I have taken steps
institutions. They are all the same. Some get
in life to be stable. I have now embraced
stuck in the shelter lifestyle and are com-
Rochester, and I want to help change things
fortable with it. I wanted to rise above the
here. I was like a ghost. I would stand on
perception people have of the homeless.
the street corner playing my guitar and
As of today I have been in my apartment
people thought I was just a homeless addict
for the last six months. In the beginning it
looking for drugs. I knew I wasn’t but that
was hard. I wasn’t used to the daily chores
seemed to be the stereotype. It was a very
and hygiene rituals that come with having
harsh winter but I came out ahead. When
your own place. I have adjusted and now
you struggle with homelessness there are
feel a sense of belonging, and have built a
many aspects to consider. Mental health
strong bond with the Rochester community.
issues mean that your overall character is
I was asked to speak at a Social Welfare
challenged.
Alliance program in March regarding
I went through the foster care system. I was
mental health issues and homelessness. I
born with fetal dilantin syndrome which
really believe that one of the ways to help
Contact Michele Cooley, mcooley@
caused a birth defect in my hands and feet.
the homeless is to find out what the home-
asburyfirst.org (585) 461-0285 to find out
My mother was in a wheelchair and could
less person liked as a kid. Your passions
how you can help people like James and
not care for me so I was placed in institu-
are stronger than your addictions. I believe
Matt to achieve their dreams.
15
Matt and James are making a difference in Rochester and other areas as well. They will be going to New York City on May 19 where James will be playing at the Harlem Shrine Theater and he and Matt will be playing at the Apollo Theater in Harlem on the next day. We are very proud of them. They have encouraged each other, become friends and advocates, and it all started here at the Dining and Caring Center “For any one who is hungry or homeless.” If you would like to be a positive force in someone’s life as a volunteer, please consider the Dining Center. You will make a difference.
PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
Prayer Partners Wanted! 2015 marks our 39th year of youth missions! We are excited to be continuing in the tradition of gathering congregation members to partner with our youth and leaders to pray for us and for our ministries while we are away. This year, our senior high youth will be travelling to Tsaile, AZ to partner with Sierra Service Project and to work and minister alongside Navajo Nation. Approximately 40 youth and adults will be attending this trip from July 4-11. Meanwhile, our junior high youth will travel to the Adirondacks to experience
senior high, or adult — and will be given a photo and brief bio of him or her; you will be asked to provide a photo and write a letter to your missioner which they will receive during the trip; and finally, you will be asked to keep your missioner in prayer throughout the trip.
God through both outdoor adventures and service to the local communities. Approximately 10 youth and adults will be attending this trip on July 16-18.
We hope that you will consider becoming a prayer partner with us this year! As a prayer partner, you will be matched with a missioner — junior high,
You may sign up to be a prayer partner at a table in the Welcoming Hall on a Sunday morning, by emailing Mike Mullin at mmullin@asburyfirst.org, or by calling the church office at (585) 2711050 and letting us know of your interest. We look forward to sharing with you in these wonderful ministries!