TheVisitor
Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter May 2014 • Vol. XLVIII No. 5 • www.asburyfirst.org
In This Issue On Holy Ground, 5 Spiritual Retreats, 7 Caregivers, 8 Reconciling Ministry, 9 Youth News, 10 Vacation Bible School, 13 Miracle Garden, 15
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. XLVIII No. 5 (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.
TIME FOR A BREAK? A Pastoral Reflection
Periodical postage paid at Rochester, N.Y. POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to
Now that Easter has come and gone (the day not the season), our hearts and minds can fully turn to that next place we look for the promise of new life: summer break! This is the moment in the year when our daily struggle becomes just a little harder, when we find ourselves longingly glancing out the window at the sunshine and dreaming of a respite from the routines of life. In short, we could use a break.
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 Scott Ross 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 Property Care Manager 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
Unless otherwise noted, photos are by Greg Francis. Cover: Music, old and new, matters deeply to our faith family at Asbury First. 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, May 30
Unfortunately, the world in which we find ourselves doesn’t always look favorably upon breaks. Our culture celebrates productivity. Our worth is often measured by the amount that we are able to get done. We tell ourselves that we will rest once we finish that next project, that next email, that next (thing) and somehow there always seems to be something else we “need” to get done. But breaks are important and we are more than our work. In the first account of Creation, the very first story in our Bible, we hear about God’s intentionality for the world. God created light and darkness, the day and the night, plant life, animal life, and then us and called it all “good.” Then, as the story goes, on the seventh day God rested—and asked us to rest as well. Humans were created on the sixth day and then rested with God on the seventh. We hadn’t earned a Sabbath. We hadn’t produced anything. We hadn’t accomplished anything. We just were. Perhaps the ancient Israelites who told this story struggled like us. Perhaps they recognized just how easy it would be for us to make rest something we earn rather than a gift of God’s grace. Let’s embrace God’s grace. Before we get to summer break, let’s practice resting. Not because we’ve earned it, but because as people of sacred worth we need it. Let’s not rest to appreciate what we’ve accomplished, but to give thanks for what God continues to do. What would it mean if we turned off our smartphones? What would it mean if we waited until the morning or after the weekend to reply? What would it mean to rest? What will it mean if we don’t? Grace and Peace, Stephen 2
AFUMC news Serving Homeless RAIHN Families for Ten Years
which you belong, want to be a part of this important vol-
Asbury First celebrated its tenth year of serving as a host
unteer effort during our next RAIHN week, June 1-7, please contact Asbury First RAIHN scheduling coordinators Chris and
church for RAIHN (Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network) with an appreciation dinner for RAIHN volunteers.
Doug Lee at (585) 451-7692 or c_s_lee29@msn.com.
As a host church, Asbury First is home for homeless families
AFUMC Member Attends United Nations Forum
for one week, four times a year. Hundreds of volunteers have
AFUMC member Bethany Printup-
participated in this important effort. Fifty of them met to
Davis, a Native of the Tuscarora In-
celebrate their participation on April 8. This past year, thirteen
dian Nation, is one of eight United
RAIHN families (46 family members) have been provided with
Methodists chosen by the UMC’s
shelter and meals at Asbury First during the four host weeks.
General Board of Global Ministries
In providing for these homeless families, 112 volunteers
to attend the 13th session of the
donated nearly 1500 hours. They provided hospitality, cooked
United Nations Permanent Forum
and served meals, visited with the families, entertained chil-
on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII),
dren, and supervised activities, meals and transportation. The
to be held in NY from May 12-23 this year. The UNPFII is an
care continues as Asbury First is scheduled during the rest of
advisory group to the UN’s Economic and Social Council, re-
2014 to serve as temporary home on June 1-7, September
porting on indigenous issues related to economic and social
7-13, and December 7-13. You can help with this important
development, culture, the environment, education, health
outreach program. The Asbury First RAIHN program has a
and human rights. Bethany has long been involved with the
continuing need for volunteers, especially for evening hos-
Upper New York Annual Conference’s Committee on Native
pitality, Saturday shifts, and overnights. If you, or a group to
Continued on page 4.
Editor’s note: in late December, AFUMC member John Church embarked with other youth from our United Methodist Jurisdiction on a Mission of Peace to South Africa. MOP is a life-changing opportunity for young people to experience a new culture, and return to share what they have learned with their home parish. Here is John’s report on his trip.
O
n December 28th I embarked on a 20 day Mission of Peace to South Africa. I spent this time with a group of 17 amazing youth and several adults from all over the Northeast Jurisdiction of the United States. This trip was termed as a journey of “Shalom,” or unconditional love and peace for one another. After a 19 hour plane from Washington D.C. to Johannesburg, we started out on our journey and instantly immersed ourselves in the South African’s culture. While in Johannesburg we learned a lot about Apartheid and the hardships people faced during this time. We also learned quite a lot about Nelson Mandela and what he did for this beautiful country. We visited many places but one stood out among the rest. It was a giant church in the city of Johannesburg by the name of Central Methodist Church. This church opened its doors to the Zimbabwean people who ran from their country during times of violence or political unrest. This church was dirty. And smelly. At one point, they had 3500 people sleeping in the church and only 4 bathrooms. Before we went into the church we were told to think about the question, what is the church? Is it the nice, pretty, clean building or is it the people? They are worshiping right beside you. And as I walked over body after body, sleeping in the church, and as I watched people who had absolutely nothing, smile and say “God bless you” to me, I realized that in God’s eyes we are all equal and we are truly all children of God. And that’s where I found peace. After that powerful and moving week and a half, we flew from Johannesburg to Cape Town. While in Cape Town, we visited a church and also attended worship on Sunday like we had done in Johannesburg. We got to experience how South African Methodists worship and praise God. We also got to experience services in native languages like Zulu, Xhosa and Sotho. Throughout these 20 days we got to meet with some of the nicest people in the world and make connections I would have never had otherwise. Thank you all for supporting me and praying for the group before, during and after the trip. This was truly a life changing experience and I will do my best to continue to be changed by this trip. 3
AFUMC News, continued from page 3.
Bowling League Wraps Up Spring Season
American Ministries, and has co-taught and led discussions
Asbury First’s Bowling League wrapped up their high-scoring season last month at Clover Lanes in Pittsford. For the 24
on Native American issues with churches across the state.
participants, it was a weekly chance to practice their sport
The Upper NY Conference, according to Bethany, has been
and bond in fellowship with other bowlers. Participants
proactive in preparing teaching materials and other resourc-
paid a small fee for the bowling each week, with pizza and
es, leading up to a Conference-wide Act of Repentance in
soda provided by Asbury First. Winners of the individual
2015. This arises out of legislation at the General Conference
awards for highest men’s and women’s scores were Lee Eder
of 2012, which declared an Act of Repentance and Healing
and Wendy Wright (photo, below left). The team high score
Toward Indigenous Peoples.
award was given to Team Strikes and Spares, with Eugene
Bethany’s inclusion in the UN forum came as a result of an
Fisher, Luis Morales, Brian Holloway and Dave Cowdery
invitation from Rev. Glen Chebon Kernell, Jr., the Executive
(Eugene, Lewis and Brian in photo at right). Congratulations
Secretary of Native American and Indigenous Ministries, Jus-
to all the players for a successful season. Watch your bulle-
tice and Relationships with the UMC General Board of Global
tin and Visitor in late summer for information on the fall ’14
Ministries. Speaking to Bethany about the Forum, Kernell
bowling season.
said, “a hope is to take our Native people from the UMC in order that we might make our ministries more a part of the bigger picture in our country, and connect those issues with other indigenous persons from across the world.” A Message from AFUMC Member Jane Jeszenka A heartfelt thank you to my Asbury First family for the caring, love and concern shown me during my recent open heart surgery. I never felt alone. – Jane Jeszenka
Bowling photos by Cailin Monaghan.
Asbury Storehouse Says, “Thank You, thank you!” Did you know that the walls
the walls are now sealed and
And now, a second thank
in the Storehouse seem like
painted; totally refreshed.
you! We are honored and
the walls of Jericho? Due
The painters’ helpers, led
pleased to have been the
to the dampness in the
by our youth minister, Mike
designated outreach re-
lower level of 1050 where
Mullin, were Megan Orms-
cipient for this year’s Easter
the Storehouse is located,
bee, Andrew Kennedy, Tyler
offering. Each guest at the
the paint on the inside walls
Deskins, John Church, and
Storehouse receives a new
chips off and falls to the
Brian Carter. Watching,
pair of socks as well as a
floor, making an unsightly
checking and guiding the
blanket, if needed. Our limit-
mess! During the Easter
entire project, was our new
ed budget is often stretched
recess, a group of help-
property care manager,
to make these much needed
ful congregants worked to
Scott Ross. Thanks to all
items available, so please
resolve the problem. Led by
for making our Storehouse
accept our HUGE thanks for
John Smalt, painter extraor-
space more attractive and a
your kindness and care.
dinaire, his faithful helper,
healthier place to welcome
Dick Clements, and Store-
our guests.
– Nancy Davidow
house sorter, Bill Grannon, 4
on holy ground Embracing our Differences By Kathy Thiel
M
any of us enjoy a nice salad for lunch or dinner. Full of fresh food, packed with nutrients, a salad keeps our bodies healthy and our minds sharp. Some choose a salad with iceberg lettuce as the base; others want Romaine lettuce, or red-leaf. There are salads which do not include any leafy greens and are made up of potatoes, mayonnaise, eggs and bacon. Salads are as varied as we are. And so are our spiritual lives. There are those who need absolute silence in order to connect with God. Sounds and flickering lights offer only distractions to their means to be most fully with God. A quiet room with soft pillows and an open window is perfect, or maybe a nice, grassy patch on which to recline in a meadow or by a stream.
of what are major distractions to some. Going within, being with God, happens for them regardless of their surrounding physical circumstances. Like salad ingredients – pears for me, please, but hold the peppers! – our spiritual lives are individual.
Others can find their connection on a crowded subway train, squashed between two other commuters. The way in which they are in touch with God comes in spite
Religious Etiquette for All
W
e live in an area which is home to many different religious faith traditions. Among these are Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Mormon, Islam, Jew-
ish, Presbyterian, Catholic, and other United Methodist churches, to name only a handful. One of the commonalities of these traditions is that they are followed by those who are not much different than we are. Even within our own United Methodist tradition there are different ways to recognize and celebrate God in our lives. How to Be A Perfect Stranger gives religious etiquette advice and offers explanations about how and why certain rituals are followed. It is a good book to pick up, open up, and begin to read at the page at which it opens. You will learn about Life Cycle Events and Festival Days, and perhaps be stimulated to ask some more direct questions of your friends of different faith traditions. 5
When we meet together for worship, we enjoy many different ways to praise God. We lift our voices in song, we bow our heads in silent prayer, we listen to music and the preached word. As we join in these varied, worshipful ways, may we know that our individual, personal ways are recognized and appreciated by God. Think of the many ways in which friends and family have wished you Happy Birthday over the years – balloons, cake, presents, singing, a special activity – and know that as you have appreciated the thought behind this variety of well-wishing, so God appreciates and knows the heart of those who gather to worship, and those who bring themselves to a place of meditation to connect with God. Whether it be on a sunny day while walking the dog, on a rainy afternoon curled up with a book, or in a quiet, dark room with one candle lit, may you know that the most direct path to God is what works best for you.
Labyrinth Wednesday, June 11 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Calling the Ar tists of Asbur y First
by Rev. Linda Clemow In my last newsletter article I mentioned that Asbury First will be celebrating the art and music programs at our church. Pentecost, which is Sunday, June 8, was chosen as the perfect time for this celebration. At Pentecost, the church celebrates the blessing of the Holy Spirit as it empowered and enlivened the witness of the disciples. In the account from Acts, the disciples were suddenly gifted with the power to speak in all of the languages of the earth. We think of that as a multilingual event. Could it not have been, as well, a gift of artistic expression? We who primarily experience the praise of God verbally
the art show. You have unique gifts and talents to share with the congregation! The works of art do not need to be specifically Christian or religious. The talents given to you to share are sacred in their own right. Here is a list of all the kinds of art that we want to include (and feel free to contact me with other suggestions): • paintings • weaving • wall hangings • art quilts • sculpture • wood working • photography • jewelry
or musically may have within our midst the untapped “voices” of the visual artists, the dramatic artists, the dancing artists. Which of these forms of expressions can we draw out of our congregation? June 8 begins with Confirmation at the 8:30 a.m. service, a traditional Pentecost Sunday event in the life of the church. It will continue with an art show in the Gathering Center. This show will be in place Sunday morning through Sunday afternoon. The worship service will include special music by the some of the Asbury First choirs. I am appealing to the artists of Asbury First to participate in
worship schedule WORSHIP
Our Living
Sunday Service Times (Through June 8) 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Sunday may 18
Births & Baptisms
Fifth Sunday of Easter John 14:1-14 Katherine Thiel, preacher
God has sealed you unto love and grace divine
10:00 a.m.
Sunday may 25
Informal Worship with Communion
Sixth Sunday of Easter/Memorial Day Luke 24:44-53 Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship NOTE: We will begin our summer service hours on Sunday, June 15, as follows: 8:30 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion 10:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
Jacob Michael Parkes son of Michael and Kristin Parkes, baptized on April 27, 2014.
Seventh Sunday of Easter John 14:1-14Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher Sunday June 8 Pentecost/Confirmation Sunday Acts 2:1-21 Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher
6
in Community We offer our prayers and sympathy to Susanna Ferris on the death of her mother Shirley Ferris on April 9 in Hornell, New York.
Merciful God, we entrust to your never-failing care and love.
We offer our prayers and sympathy Tammi Vinci on the death of her father Matthew Vinci on April 20, 2014.
We offer our prayers and sympathy the family and friends of Ellen Tyler who died on March 28, 2014.
We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Rev. Dr. E. David DuBois who died on May 2, 2014.
We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of John Clarke who died on April 13, 2014 in Groveland, Florida.
We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Edie Prest who died on May 5, 2014.
Deaths
Sunday June 1
All works of art, where applicable, should either be framed or matted, and suitable for display. Each artist is asked to type an artist’s statement that will be displayed with the art as well as title of work and type of media used. We are asking that you limit the submissions to three pieces with the understanding that the third piece may not be displayed depending on space. The works of art should be submitted by Wednesday, June 4, to the church office. If you need more information or have questions, please call Linda Clemow at 236-1184.
Men’s Retreat: Finding the Quiet Center Come and find the quiet centre In the crowded life we lead Find the room for hope to enter Find the frame where we are freed Clear the chaos and the clutter Clear our eyes that we can see
– from Finding the Quiet Center, by Benjamin Franklin White, Jack Schrader, Shirley Erena Murray. ©1992, Hope Pub. Co.; read by Jim Carter on Sunday morning at the Men’s Retreat at Camp Casowasco, NY.
In the Spirit let us travel, open to each other’s pain, let our loves and fears unravel, celebrate the space we gain: there’s a place for deepest dreaming, there’s a time for heart to care, in the Spirit’s lively scheming there is always room to spare!
Photos by Glenn Peck and Jim Carter.
Women’s Retreat: Praying in Color Yes, it was good that 23 women retreated the first weekend in April at Camp Asbury in Perry, NY. Sunny , crisp, early spring weather welcomed us to this beautiful setting on the still-frozen shores of Silver Lake. Many friendships were made and renewed. Again and again, you could hear, “We must do this again. This time spent with other women is something I value and appreciate.”
evening discussion following the viewing of the movie Chocolat was fun with much laughter and reflection. Our hospitality team generously provided delicious goodies and treated us so well.
Our theme was “Enfolded in God’s Love“ and we surely experienced the Presence of God enfolding and embracing us through the Word, music, nature, and each other whether in large group presentations, small group discussions, or quiet personal time. The book Praying in Color was introduced. Using the author’s techniques, we experimented with shapes, embellishments and colors as we prayerfully brought those we love, personal life experiences and/or our thanksgiving to God in a tangible way on our paper and journals. Many were pleasantly surprised at this quiet means of bringing our hearts to prayer.
For me our Sunday worship and communion service is fondly remembered and held dear to my heart. As these beautiful women told their stories and connections to Lydia, As part of our morning worship, we the dealer of purple cloth, swaddled the cross in the scarves we were wearing, creating another image/symbol for the living word of God was the body of Christ among us. palpable. We were sent forth “Blessed to be a Blessing.”
There was relaxing free time for walking, resting, playing games and little road trips to nearby parks and exploring the area. Our Saturday
– Bonnie Matthaidess, retreat facilitator 7
• Caring for the Caregivers • A New Asbury First Group Supports Those who Care For Others 1 by Mary Berk 2 Ed. note: Many of us know the joys and sorrows of caring for another person. Whether it is an elderly parent, a sick child, or someone else in need of help, it can be a challenge to compassionately provide the physical and emotional support for a person who is hurting or vulnerable. But who takes care of the caregivers? In March and April, a group at Asbury First got together to try to partly answer that question. Led by member Mary Berk, a licensed social worker, the group offered a safe place to speak about caregiving with others who were experiencing the same challenges. The group sessions became a powerfully affirming experience for the participants, and what was originally meant to be a single six-session event now will be repeated in September (watch your bulletin and future issues of The Visitor for more information). For those who did not get a chance to attend, Mary Berk offers the following thoughts on the group and what it means to be a caregiver.
A
sbury First recognized the need within our congregation to provide support for the caregivers among us. We began our first Caregivers Support Group in March. It ran for six weeks and there were nine caregivers in our initial group. There are currently over 44 million unpaid caregivers providing care for individuals who cannot maintain their independence without help. This translates to one in four households at an estimated value of $257 billion dollars. The true value to those who are frail, disabled, and vulnerable cannot be measured. The cost to caregivers, however, can be significant. Many juggle caregiving, parenting, and careers. Others provide care to multiple relatives or friends simultaneously. Caregiving is a career for which there is no preparation or remuneration. Job qualifications include excellent manage-
ment, financial and advocacy experience, and interpersonal skills. Physical stamina, creativity, and a sense of humor are highly recommended. Caregivers are expected to effectively navigate health care systems, behavioral health systems, social service
“Thank you for the opportunity to share our experiences as caregivers. Like anything in life, if you haven’t gone through the situation you can’t really appreciate the challenges. Our small group had great empathy for what everyone shared.”
} “I might have eventually made the decision I did, but it was because of the support of the group that I could make it now rather than wait until I had no other choice.” systems, and family communications. The term caregiver applies to a spouse, partner, child, relative or friend who is providing assistance to a loved one. Caregivers may live in the home, in town, or across the country. In one family there may be several adult children who share the caregiving responsibilities. In other situations the burden of care may fall on a single person. No two situations look the same, but they share common themes. All caregivers are trying to provide the best care they can while making every effort to accommodate the wishes of their loved one. There is frequently disagreement in families around decision-making and it is not uncommon for a family’s unresolved relationship issues 8
to be revived amidst the stress of caregiving. Caregivers rarely feel they are doing an adequate job. They always wish the choices were clearer, that they had more patience, that they had a better understanding of the options, that they had more time as they struggle to manage situations where there is no hope of improvement or the inevitable fact of decline. Caregiving is an act of love that is at once rewarding, challenging, and profoundly life changing. Caregivers know better than anyone that life is precious; fragile one moment, vital and powerful the next. They learn that it is not a journey one takes alone. Many begin by believing they should do everything themselves. They eventually learn to accept help when it is offered and support when it is freely given. They discover that sharing their experiences lightens the burden and enables them to return to their loved one with renewed energy. If you are currently a caregiver and feel you would benefit from the support of others, please consider joining the Caregiver Support Group when it resumes in September. We also extend a warm welcome to former caregivers. The loss of the caregiving role can leave a void for which many are unprepared. The shared experience and wisdom you gained is a gift to others and a step toward closure. The group format is casual and welcoming. Members are encouraged to share only what they choose. Confidentiality and mutual respect are the only ground rules. For current and former caregivers it is an opportunity to explore and process the complex situations and emotions that are regularly encountered in caregiving. Each session meets weekly for six weeks. We hope to offer three sessions per year.
• Hearts Open to REconciliation • AFUMC Journeys Toward Greater Understanding and Respect For All 1 by the Reconciling Ministries Committee 2
T
he Reconciling Ministries Commit-
meaning and purpose of this ongoing
tee has continued its work over the
effort along with a series of frequently
last several months and has also had the
asked questions that may assist mem-
opportunity to speak with several small
bers of the congregation in understand-
groups in the church. These conversa-
ing the content and context for our
tions will continue over the next weeks
initiative. We look forward to hearing
and months. We are also planning
from anyone who has an interest. More
several additional opportunities for
information will be forthcoming as the
discussion in the early fall. In prepara-
process moves forward. Please contact
tion, the committee has prepared the
Nancy Specht at ncspeck@gmail.com at
following statement that articulates the
any time for further information.
Reconciling Statement of Asbury First United Methodist Church Asbury First United Methodist Church prayerfully strives to live in its urban 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.
Frequently Asked Questions What does it mean to become a
national grassroots organization of
church community. Reconciling moves
“reconciling” United Methodist
United Methodist individuals, churches,
beyond welcoming to begin a process
church?
and affiliates. The organization was
of healing. Unfortunately, Christianity
A “reconciling” church is one that
founded in 1982 and includes more than
has a long history of inflicting violence
adopts a public statement which, while
500 congregations nationwide, works
(physical or otherwise), hatred and
inclusive of all families and individuals,
for full participation of all people in the
discrimination against lesbian, gay,
explicitly welcomes persons of all sexual
life of The United Methodist Church.
bisexual and transgendered (LGBT)
orientations and gender identities. The
Asbury First is already a welcoming
people. Many LGBT people have been
statement is intended to be visible and, therefore, would be present on the church website, in our bulletin and in The Visitor.
church. Why does it need to be reconciling? We endeavor to not just welcome all of
The Reconciling Ministries Network
God’s children, but to encourage all to
(RMN; www.rmnetwork.org), is a
be fully-participating members of our 9
hurt by the church and a process of healing is necessary. We believe it is a biblical and theological imperative for our congregation to support this Continued on page 12.
youth ministry news
A
sbury First is a powerful prayer community. For 37 years, Asbury First members have lifted youth mission trips in prayer. This year we’re asking that the power of prayer be lent to both the high-school mission trip to Chicago and a middle-school mission trip to Niagara Falls. Approximately 40 youth and adults from Asbury First will work for a week in early July with the DOOR project: Discovering Opportunities for Outreach
and Reflection, a national ministry with programs in several cities, including Chicago. The group expects to help with meal preparation, youth programs, senior engagement, environmental care, or HIV/AIDS awareness, among other tasks. This is hard, rewarding work and the group needs you – not to swing a hammer or to feed the hungry, but to do some spiritual heavy lifting through prayer. In late July, middle-school students and their counselors will spend three days in Niagara Falls. They’ll work with Community Missions, a local organization, and stay at the Mission House associated the First United Methodist Church there. They, too, will need your prayers to guide their work.
Please consider becoming a Prayer Partner. By doing this you’ll be matched with a missioner – middle-schooler, high-schooler, or adult. You’ll be asked to write a letter to that person, which will be handed out during the mission trip. You will also be asked to keep them in your thoughts and lift them in daily prayer throughout the week. You may even receive a letter back! You can sign up by contacting Diana Carter at blueloon@rochester.rr.com or (585) 473-1187, or look for a sign-up table in the Welcoming Hall some Sundays in June. Please help us support our amazing youth and their counselors.
Meet Our Confirmands As our school year is winding down, this year’s class of 8th grade confirmation students are winding up to become full members of the Asbury First United Methodist Church community. We are excited to be celebrating in this event with the whole church on Pentecost Sunday, June 8 at the 8:30 a.m. service. As we look forward to this day, we asked each of our confirmands a series of questions so that we all might get to know each of them a little better prior to confirmation Sunday. ✪ My name is Clara Benham and I attend Honeoye Falls-Lima Middle School. I have been attending Asbury First for about 10 years and my favorite memory is volunteering in the Dining and Caring Center with the confirmation class. I want to join the church so that I may continue to become closer to God and continue to help those in need. ✪ My name is Richard Carson Benjamin and I attend Barker Road Middle School in Pittsford. I have been attending Asbury First for about 10 years and my favorite aspects of the church are the youth group, the ministers, the services, and being able to make friends from all over Rochester. I want to join because I think the church is an uplifting place. ✪ My name is Lila Grayce Campbell and I attend Allendale Columbia School. I have attended Asbury First my entire life and my favorite memory was taking part in the Christmas pageants when I was younger. I want to join the church to continue to feel more connected to the church, the community, and my family – my grandfather was a Methodist pastor, my parents got married in this church, and I was baptized in this church. Continued on page 11
10
youth ministry news Confirmands, continued from page 10
✪ My name is Luis Colon and I attend Arcadia Middle School. I have attended Asbury First my entire life and my favorite aspect of church has been the confirmation class. I want to join the church so that I may continue to grow in my faith and become closer to God. ✪ My name is Jack Dugan and I attend Martha Brown Middle School in Fairport. I’ve been attending Asbury First since I was born. My favorite memories are of the church-wide retreats held at Watson Homestead – I miss them! I want to join the church because it has less rules than the Catholic church that my friends attend! Seriously, Asbury First feels like home. ✪ My name is Carly Guidice and I attend Spry Middle School. I have been attending Asbury First for about 11 years and my favorite activity was attending this year’s middle school winter retreat to Camp Casowasco. I want to join the church because I want to learn more about my creator and when I am in Asbury First I feel like I am part of a huge family that I know will support me. ✪ My name is Connor Armstrong Nelson and I am home schooled. I have been attending Asbury First my whole life and my favorite memory is participating in the Harry Potter and Christianity group discussions led by Rev. Dr. Cady. I would like to join the church because the people are friendly and share similar beliefs. I also like the variety of opportunities that Asbury First provides for me. ✪ My name is Victoria Slattery and I attend School of the Arts. I have been attending Asbury First since I was in kindergarten and my favorite memory is receiving my third grade Bible during a church service. I also enjoy the overnights, as well. I want to be a member so I can continue to learn about God, and also to volunteer in lots of different ministries like the Dining and Caring Center, mission trips, and working on the video and sound during church services.
Come One, Come All to the Annual
Asbury First Carnival Sunday, June 1 After the 11:00 a.m. Service Granger Street Lawn Celebrate the end of our spring ‘14 programming and the arrival of summer ! We’ll have a bounce house, pony rides 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! 11
Reconciling Ministries, continued from page 9.
Might this issue divide our
United Methodist motto “Open Minds,
process of welcome and healing for all
congregation?
Open Hearts, Open Doors” and also em-
God’s children. To be reconciled means
We understand that issues related to
brace the church’s position on inclusion,
to restore harmony in our relationship
homosexuality and sexuality in general
non-discrimination and ministry to all
with God and one another through
can be uncomfortable and divisive. Our
are in full compliance with church law.
Jesus Christ.
process is designed to promote open
Does becoming a Reconciling
and honest dialogue with all voices
Will becoming a reconciling congregation change the “face” of our congregation? The Reconciling Committee does not believe that adopting a reconciling statement would significantly alter the composition of the congregation. The experience of many congregations
having the opportunity to be heard. It is expected that we may agree to disagree about this particular issue, but we believe that no one should be excluded from the life and ministries of the church. We also believe that our church will be stronger because of this dialogue no matter where we as
who go through the reconciling process is that they receive some new
individuals stand on this single issue.
Congregation mean that same-sex marriages will be performed at Asbury or that we support ordaining openly LGBT pastors? The purpose of becoming reconciling is to be truly welcoming of all people. Regardless of whether we become a reconciling congregation, the prohibitions against pastors performing same-sex marriages and ordination
LGBT members, but also receive as
Will we be breaking church law if we
of openly LGBT pastors will remain in
many or more heterosexual members
become a reconciling congregation?
effect until or unless they are changed
who are drawn to a truly hospitable
No. There is no Disciplinary restriction
at General Conference.
congregation. Our hope is to strengthen
on becoming a reconciling congrega-
Asbury First’s commitment to being a
tion. All General Conferences since 1998
congregation that welcomes all God’s
have voted against petitions trying to
children and is reflective of the diversity
make it against the rules to be reconcil-
found in God’s creation.
ing. Congregations that embrace the
May
17
John 15:1-27
18
Matthew 12:1-21
18
John 16:1-15
19
Matthew 12:22-37
19
John 16:16-33
20
Matthew 12:38-50
20
I Corinthians 12:1-11
21
Matthew 14:1-21
21
I Corinthians 14:1-25
22
Matthew 14:22-36
31
23
Matthew 15:21-39
24
25
8
Acts 2:1-28
22
I Corinthians 14:26-40
June
9
Acts 2:29-47
23
Ezekiel 1:1-2:1
Matthew 17:1-23
1
Isaiah 6:1-13
10
Acts 5:12-42
24
Ezekiel 2:2-10
Ephesians 1:1-23
2
Isaiah 61:1-11
11
Romans 8:1-17
25
Ezekial 3:1-27
26
Ephesians 2:1-22
3
Isaiah 62:1-12
12
Romans 8:18-39
26
Ezekiel 36:1-15
27
Ephesians 3:1-21
4
Joel 1:1-20
13
Romans 12:1-21
27
Ezekiel 36:16-38
28
Ephesians 4:1-16
5
Joel 2:1-17
14
Romans 14:1-23
28
Ezekiel 37:1-28
29
Acts 1:1-11
6
Joel 2:18-32
15
John 14:1-14
29
Ezekiel 39:1-29
30
Acts 1:12-26
7
Joel 3:1-21
16
John 14:15_31
30
Ezekiel 43:1-17
Psalm 47
Scripture reading suggestions courtesy of the American Bible Society, www.americanbible.org.
12
Please join us for “Tales of the Tide: Jesus by the Water” VBS on August 4-7 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 $10.00 per child with a maximum of $30.00 per family. Make checks payable to Asbury First United Methodist Church. Child’s Name
Age
Allergies
T-Shirt Size
Would your children like to be grouped together (please circle)? Yes or No
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 7, we’ll celebrate the end of a great week with dinner at Durand Eastman Park! Questions? Contact Melissa Bohrer or Paula Dugan, (585) 271-1050 x111 or mbohrer@asburyfirst.org and pdugan@asburyfirst.org. 13
Library news
B
ooks for all ages can be found in the church resource library. The library is ALWAYS open when the church is. he following books have been selected as featured books for May. The library is located just off the Welcoming Hall near the elevators. Everyone is welcome!
Children: Love Is, adapted from the King James Bible and illustrated by Wendy Anderson Halperin. This picture book on love is excerpted from the well-known (Love is patient. Love is kind. Love never ends...) apostle Paul’s definitions of love in I Corinthians 13. Halperin combines Paul’s words with watercolor and pencil, creating a “memorable, unusually thoughtful picture book.” It brings a timeless message of love, and is perfect for 4-8 year olds and for any occasion when you simply want to say I love you.
nothing has gone right. Nothing’s the same. Not his Dad. Not his sister and definitely not him. Milo copes with being the new kid as he struggles to survive a school year filled with reminders of what his life “used to be.” The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie. This is an absorbing novel for ages 12-17 about a Native American boy searching for a brighter future. Both humorous and stirring, Alexei’s novel follows Junior, a resident of the Spokane reservation who transfers out of the reservation school and into a nearby rich, all-white farm school in order to nurture his desire to become a cartoonist. Junior encounters problems — a backlash at home, family problems — all the while relaying his thoughts and feelings via amusing descriptions and drawings.
The Treasury of Angel Stories, by Mary Joslin. Each of these stories highlights a key moment in the Old or New Testament, from the creation to the resurrection and on to revelation. The illustrations enhance the beauty of the stories, making a book that will be treasured by children, parents, and teachers. This 32-page book is especially suited to children ages 10-12.
Adults: The Invention of Wings, by Sue Monk Kidd. Sue Monk Kidd brings a haunting, thought-provoking, and spiritual narrative of both black history and women’s history to life. It is a story of two women who became sisters under the skin. Considered “inspirational” by reviewers, the book reveals the relationship of 11-year-old girl and her slave named Handful from their early years to maturity.
Everything I Need To Know I Learned From A Little Golden Book, by Diane Muldrow. Okay, this book is for adults but seems appropriate to put it in the children’s section. It is a humorous “guide to life” for grown-ups! There is hardly a real-life situation that hasn’t been covered in the more than 70-year-old line of children’s books — from managing money, to the importance of exercise, to finding contentment in the simplest things. The book draws from more than 60 stories of these best-loved books — among them The Poky Little Puppy, Pantaloon, Mister Dog, Nurse Nancy, We Help Mommy, Five Pennies to Spend, and The Little Red Hen.
How Did I Get to Be 70 When I’m 35 Inside, by Linda Douty. Spiritual director Linda Douty discusses the challenges and surprises of aging by talking about how you actually feel. She offers a method to adjust to the unexpected as you grow older. She looks at surprises, welcome and unwelcome, concerning self-image, the physical body, relationships, and spiritual life. The thinking is that questions for reflecting on who you are in this period of your life—or who you would like to be—will help you live each day more purposefully and joyfully.
Cookies: Bite-Size Life Lessons, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, ill. by Brooke Dyer. Three-five year olds will learn that “COOPERATE means, why don’t you add the chips while I stir?”“FAIR means, you get a bit, I get a bite!” The author’s crafty cookie-making metaphors teach nourishing life lessons about respect, trustworthiness, politeness, patience, and loyalty. Children and parents alike will find it “a tasty approach to teaching important concepts to sweet-toothed children.”
The Hidden Face of God, by Gerald L. Schroeder. Physicist and Biblical scholar Schroeder argues that the origins of life and the universe are God-driven. In a fusion of science and faith, the scientist and popular writer Gerald L. Schroeder explains why cutting-edge scientific theories point to a great plan underlying the universe. The author invokes God as the omnipotent force infusing the universe with information that explains, for example, some of the more bizarre phenomena of quantum mechanics.
Teens: Perfectly Unique, by Annie F. Downs. According to the author,“From head to foot, the way you view your body is directly connected to how you serve God. From the thoughts you think to the steps you take, every part of you is linked to the divine.” Those in ages 13-18 will find this book helpful as it deals with why God made you as you are. This book will take you on a thoughtful, funny, and spirit-filled exploration of the way you were designed and will help you better honor the Creator by learning to value a perfectly unique creation (you).
Parenting: The Secrets of Happy Families: 8 Keys to Building a Lifetime of Connection and Commitment, by Scott Haltzman. Research proves that happy families are good for health, longevity, peace of mind, productivity, and success. In The Secrets of Happy Families, Scott Haltzman offers an original approach to building family contentment that works for families of all ethnicities and make-ups—two-parent, single-parent, blended, childless, or same-sex couples. Drawing on more than 1200 family-life questionnaires, psychological research, and experience as a clinician, the author provides a “positive psychology” way of solving family problems through strategy and leadership.
Milo: Sticky Notes and Brain Freeze, by Alan Silverberg. Nine to thirteen year olds, this one’s for you! Milo is a funny and touching story, told through text and cartoons, of a 13-year-old boy’s struggle to come to terms with the loss of his mother. Since Milo’s mother died 14
the last word 1 by Elizabeth Church 2
Greetings from AFUMC members John and Michelle Pandian and the children of Miracle Garden Home and School in Theethipalayam, Tamil Nadu, India! As I write this the school is taking its “summer” break. Schools in India take a two-month break during April and May, and the new year begins in June. During this time the majority of the students, 66 percent, remain with their families in the nine neighboring villages from which they come. The remaining students, the orphans living at Miracle Garden, may spend some time with extended family in their home villages. The teachers’ break will be a balance between planning lessons for the new year and recruiting students.
have a spiritual leader for the past three years. A young man from the nearby city of Coimbatore has led worship services at Miracle Garden for the children, staff and neighboring Christians. Affiliated with Youth With A Mission, an international organization that focuses on children’s ministry and the spiritual development of children, the children have been blessed with Rev. H. Napoleon’s presence and guidance. Christian World Relief has also asked for a proposal for a donation. Once complete, Michelle is hoping this gift will allow Miracle Garden to purchase a newer van to help transport children to and from school. With church and community sponsors from England and the U.S., and many individual sponsors for the children’s room, board and education, there’s still much we can do. Michelle and John specifically ask for your prayers that Miracle Garden continues to make a positive impact on the lives of these children. Michelle and John ask that you keep the safety of the children, school and staff in your prayers. They also ask for prayers for a peaceful transition of government.
John and Michelle are very pleased that the nominal tuition they ask of the neighbor children covers 60 percent of the school’s expenses. Miracle Garden school includes grades Pre-K (what is called “upper” and “lower” kindergarten) through eighth grade. This last year the school had 242 students enrolled, and hopes to increase to 300 students in June. With capacity for 350, there’s still room to grow.
John continues to keep his diabetes in control with diet and exercise, and Michelle and Adam remain in Holmen, Wisconsin where Michelle is a teacher of the deaf and hard of hearing. Adam, now 10, has made good progress since he was diagnosed with PANDAs or Pans, several years ago. A neurological disease often brought on by infection, Adam has struggled with significant food allergies, tics, OCD and behaviors that hinder his learning.
While school is not in session, there’s still plenty going on! Construction is underway to build a greenhouse adjacent to the school. With $8400 from the Dorothea Ross Foundation, the greenhouse will provide a valuable agricultural educational opportunity and learning tool. Vegetables will be the focus, as prices for fresh produce, needed for the children’s growth and health, have skyrocketed. With approximately 1,000 square feet, the greenhouse will include an upper/hanging layer where they plan to grow orchids as a cash crop. News in India at this time is all about the national election. The election will take a month to complete to allow people from remote communities time to get to a polling site. Many roads have been closed, areas have heightened security and deliveries have been delayed because of this process. While the Pandians are looking forward to life return-
Photos by John Pandian
ing to normal post-election, there is concern over what the results might mean for this Christian outreach in a conservative Hindu area. Christianity is still a fringe presence in India and is persecuted, especially in smaller villages. Miracle Garden has been fortunate to 15
For more information about Miracle Garden or to become a sponsor of a child, a teacher or any part of the school, please contact Elizabeth Church at elizchurch@juno.com, or call 461-9802. You can see more pictures and read news by visiting: tsunamichildrenshome. blogspot.com, or www.MiracleGardenGO. wix.com/india. Just $30 a month will feed, cloth and educate one of these children. Thank you for your continued support and prayers for these brothers and sisters in Christ!
PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
GIVE BLOOD SAVE A LIFE
Donate Blood at the Asbury First Blood Drive Please help us meet our goal of 35 donations! When: Sunday, June 1, 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Where: Fellowship Hall (downstairs in church building) 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 are over 75 and have not donated recently, check with your doctor); weigh at least 110 pounds; and meet qualifications (your health history will be confidentially evaluated to determine eligibility). Questions? Check the American Red Cross web site at http:// www.redcrossblood.org/ for a list of criteria and more information. You may also call the Red Cross at 800-733-2767. Call Ed Ristau to set up your appointment at 223-4356.