TheVisitor
Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter November 2013 • Vol. XLVII No. 9 • www.asburyfirst.org
In This Issue On Holy Ground, 5 Making Ministry Happen, 8 A Cafe With Heart, 9 Financial Report, 10-11 Youth Room Update, 12 Dinner Among Friends, 15
The Visitor
Mission Statement
Vol. XLVII No. 9
Through worship, education, outreach, and care, we develop dis-
(USPS 558-470) is published 10 times a year, monthly with combined issues for January/February and July/August, by Asbury First United Methodist Church.
ciples of Jesus Christ who live and proclaim the Gospel and thereby work to transform our culture.
Help and hope
Periodical postage paid at Rochester, N.Y.
A Pastoral Reflection
POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to Asbury First UMC Visitor 1050 East Ave. Rochester, N.Y. 14607-2239 (585) 271-1050
When the psalmist wrote the 121st Psalm several thousand years ago, the statement was: “I l lift up my eyes to the hills, from where will my help come?” (NRSV). The psalmist, apparently in a state of distress, looks for help and hope from the hills, a higher place. In this time of economic insecurity for many, the high steeple of Asbury First United Methodist Church is both a sign of help and a sign of hope.
Staff
Rev. Susan S. Shafer Rev. Stephen Cady
Rev. Lawrence Hargrave
Kathy Thiel David T. Strong Dr. William J. Weinert Paula Dugan Melissa Bohrer Mike Mullin Richard Moncrief Melody Guadagnino Michele Cooley Jason Franklin 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 Youth Director Financial Administrator Administrative Assistant Dining & Caring Center Director Property Care Manager Communications Director & Editor Organist Director, Children’s Music Director, Bell Choir; CoDirector, Youth Music Director, Asbury Singers Director, Youth Theater; CoDirector, Youth Music Artist in Residence
Cover: the imposing stonework of Asbury First’s spire, beautifully captured by Glenn Peck. 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, November 1
Some fifty years ago, John, Paul, George, and Ringo, better known as the Beatles, sang “Help, I need somebody. Help, not just anybody. Help, you know, I need someone. Help!” Daily, the staff and volunteers of Asbury First offer help and hope to many people. For some, there is not a song on their lips, merely a cry for help. For thousands of adults and children, the needs of food, clothing and health care are provided at our church. Temporary shelter, as well, is offered for families through the Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network. As the Beatles sang,“When I was younger, so much younger than today, I never needed anybody’s help in any way. But now these days are gone, I’m not so self assured. Now I find, I’ve changed my mind, I’ve opened up the doors. Help me if you can, I’m feeling down. And I do appreciate you being ’round. Help me get my feet back on the ground. Won’t you, please, please help me?” At some point in life, we all need help. It may be in our earliest days when we depend on a parent to feed, clothe and clean us or our later days when we may need someone to clean, clothe and feed us. While many of us find it difficult to ask for help, sometimes we reach a point when we must. As a church, Asbury First helped thousands this past year. Yet, as I write this, I reflect on the three persons whom we were not able to help this morning because we lacked the funds. As people of God, we are representatives of God and God’s love as demonstrated through Jesus Christ. As we consider the many ways that we have been blessed personally, please consider the ways in which we can use our time, talent and treasure to help our church make a difference in people’s lives. Even in our personal struggles, the psalmist offers us these words of assurance: “My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.” Peace, blessings, and good journey,
Rev. Lawrence Hargrave 2
AFUMC news Church Women United CWU will hold their World Community Day on Friday, November 1 from 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Greece Baptist Church, 1230 Long Pond Road, 14626. The program will include a talk by Dr. Michael Ford on “Walking Through the Doors of Opportunity.” Registration is $3.00; please bring a brown bag lunch – dessert and beverages will be provided. A collection will be taken of non-perishable food items for the Community Food Cupboard of Rochester.
dress information for anyone in this category, please send it to Ed Crosby at edkate1080@gmail.com or call Ed at 334-1349. Thank you for helping us to keep our records current. United Methodist Women News Roudebush Circle of the U.M.W. will hold their November meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 6:00 p.m. in 1010 East Ave. A catered dinner is available for $8.50 – please bring your own table service. The program will feature Marcia Wilke talking about “The Story Behind Our Favorite Christmas Carols,” and Rev. Susan Shafer will lead a communion service. Donations for the Storehouse (especially toddler sizes 2-5, boys and girls) will be collected. Everyone is welcome, men and women! Please make your reservations before Friday, Nov. 15 by calling Joan Closson at 671-5534. For more information on the Circle, please call Ginn Fitch at 381-6464.
Women on Wednesdays (WOW) invites readers Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha and Mohammed Cross the Road?, by Brian D. Mclaren, begins the 2013-14 season of Wednesday reading for the Women on Wednesday group. Discussion leader is Asbury First’s artist-in-residence, Rev. Linda Clemow. In this book, the author proposes a new faith alternative built on trust rather than hostility. He suggests this way of being a Christian goes beyond mere tolerance to vigorous interest in the other faiths.
Creative Thinking Saves 15K A recent repair at Asbury First resulted in a savings of just under 15 thousand dollars for the church when it was noticed that an area of pavement near the back door to 1010 East Ave. had crumbled, creating hazardous conditions. Initial estimates to fix the surface were in the $15K range. Quick thinking by Property Care Manager Jason Franklin and a group of concerned members resulted in another possibility: a poured concrete walkway. Work was done by a group of members including Rick Kuempel, Bruce Schwendy, and Howie Holcomb. Final cost for the repair? Less than $500. Thanks to all those who worked on Rick Kuempel (left) and Bruce Schwendy (in the project for stewarding doorway) survey the newly-laid concrete on the 1010 East Av. patio. our resources wisely.
Subsequent books will be selected by the group from recommendations of pastors and members, visits to bookstores and current topics in the news. Several chapters or sections of the selected book are read and discussed each week, with leadership of the discussion rotating among members. The value of hearing each others’ perspectives and interpretations is an important part of what keeps the group growing, laughing and learning each week. WOW meets every Wednesday from noon to 1:00 p.m. in the dining room at 1010 East Avenue. Bring a bag lunch and join us. Visitors and new members who enjoy reading and learning are always welcome. Addresses Requested for Service Men and Women As we approach the holiday season, when we traditionally send out gift packages for those members and friends of Asbury First who are serving in the military, we ask you to help us update our listing on all those in the armed services. If you have updated ad-
Answers to library quiz on page 14: 1.Asbury First has two libraries available for use by church members. 2.The church libraries are open whenever the church is open. 3.Borrowing books from the church libraries is absolutely free. 4. The church libraries are located right off the gathering space (Church Resource Library) and in 1010 East Ave. (Spiritual Life Library). 5. The book borrowing time is three weeks. 6. Church libraries have books for all ages. 7. Everyone may borrow books from the church libraries. 8. Funds to support the church library come from the church budget, donations, and memorial gifts. 9. Church library books include both fiction and non-fiction, as well as reference books. 10. The first church library was started in 1977 (that’s 36 years ago) with a single bookcase in a small room.
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AFUMC news Our Living Deaths
Matilynn Sara Charno
Merciful God, we entrust to your
daughter of Jason and Chrysa
never-failing care and love
Charno, baptized on October
We offer our prayers and sympathy to Dr. Mac Evarts and his family on the death of Nancy Evarts on September 10, 2013. We offer our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Don Carson who died September 16, 2013. Births & Baptisms God has sealed you unto
worship schedule WORSHIP
in Community
13, 2013. Jaxon Russell Steenberg son of Ashleigh and Ryan Steenberg, baptized on October 13, 2013. Jacob Michael Parkes son of Michael and Kristin Parkes, born on September 11, 2013. Thalia Adelaide Shaver daughter of Joseph and Aimee Shaver, born on October 1, 2013.
love and grace divine Emerson Catherine
William Michael Dennis
Kennedy
son of Brett and Jennifer
daughter of Andrew and Tirsa
Dennis, born on October 2,
Kennedy, baptized on Septem-
2013.
Leyden
with you in your new covenant.
daughter of Chris and Tiffani
Melissa Goodrich and
Leyden, baptized on October
Michael Folino were
6, 2013.
married on September 21,
Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher
Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
Sunday November 3 Ephesians 1:11-23 Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher
Sunday November 24 Thanksgiving Sunday Luke 23:33-43
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Rev. Stephen M. Cady II, preacher
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Sunday November 10 Luke 20:27-38
Marriages May the blessings of God’s love go
Sunday November 17 Luke 21:5-19
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
ber 15, 2013. Mackenzi Elizabeth
Sunday October 27 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17
Ellie Jennifer Malik daughter of Jeffrey and
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
Rev. Lawrence Hargrave, preacher
Sunday December 1 First Sunday of Advent
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
Isaiah 2:1-5
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
2013.
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion
Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher
10:00 a.m. Informal Worship with Holy Communion 11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
Jennifer Malik, baptized on October 13, 2013. 4
on holy ground Created by the Center for Spiritual Life, On Holy Ground highlights opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal. The Spiritual Life Committee this year is focusing on “Listening” to God and to each other. We invite you to join us in reflecting on the following “listening” words which lead us to prayer.
?
How do we know when God is talking to us? – How do we listen? When are we in the presence of God?
We would know more of you by Walter Brueggemann You are the God of all truth, the God of deep hiddenness.
God of all hiddenness who always shows yourself in being hidden,
who hides yourself in your disclosures,
we would know more of you
of your goodness and your mercy,
of your large purposes and long-term dreams.
In your presence we become aware of how little we know of ourselves,
of our interests and passions,
of our fears and dreads,
of our own wonderments and gifts.
In your truthfulness, let us know more of you
and in knowing you, ourselves as well
We pray in the name of Jesus, where we see you fully,
and ourselves clearly. Amen.
– Old Testament Theology Class/September 29, 1998; from Awed to Heaven, Rooted in Earth: Prayers of Walter Brueggemann, p. 54
FOR REFLECTION
Labyrinth & Taize
“Happy is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord.” – Proverbs 8:34-35 “…I created your brain with capacity to know me as Friend and Lord simultaneously. The human mind is the pinnacle of my creation, but so few use it for its primary purpose — knowing me. I communicate continually through My Spirit, My Word, and My creation…” – Jesus Calling by Sarah Young: September 29, p. 284 “The function of prayer is not to establish a routine; it is to establish a relationship with the God who is in relationship with us always.” “The function of prayer is to bring us into touch with ourselves, as well.” –The Rule of Benedict by Joan Chittister, pp. 132-133 5
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Wednesday, November 13 Labyrinth: 5:00-7:00 p.m. Taize: 6:30-7:15 p.m. Join us for these relaxing and spiritual worship experiences.
Outreach news Our Members Help the Homeless
Help Those Who Are Cold This Winter As we begin to plan for the upcoming holiday season, the Dining and Caring Center has a request of all our members and friends. When you are shopping in the coming weeks, would you consider picking up men’s hats, gloves (large & x-large) and personal hygiene items for the Thanksgiving In-Gathering, held on Sunday, November 24? The In-Gathering is an annual event at Asbury First when we bring monetary and material gifts to the altar on Thanksgiving Sunday to support those in need in our community. These gifts will be used to fill Christmas bags which we distribute to our guests, many of whom are homeless. Being able to have a decent hat and a warm pair of gloves really makes a difference to those who spend most of their time outside during the cold winter months.
RAIHN (Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network) week is a success at Asbury First because of YOU. Fifty-one people came together the week of September 1-8 to offer hospitality to 14 members of three separate families. The total number of hours served was an impressive 347.5, spent making beds, playing games, making meals, watching movies, visiting with the families and other volunteers, cleaning, eating and laughing. Each one of our volunteers who served is greatly appreciated. We could not have done it without them! Our next RAIHN rotation at Asbury First is November 24 through December 1, and volunteers are needed. Sign up with your family and friends by contacting Chris and Doug Lee at (585) 451-7692 or c_s_lee29@msn.com. We now have three Asbury First church groups involved with RAIHN: the Men’s Devotional Group, the TOPS weight-loss group, and Embrace Ministries. If you are involved in another group (Sunday School Class, Bible Study, etc.) why not ask them if they would like to participate in RAIHN?
S
ave the date for the Asbury First Resource Library’s annual fundraiser: a book fair at Barnes and Noble. Shop anytime Monday, Dec. 2 at the Pittsford Plaza store or online Dec. 2-7. Hear the Asbury First bell choir
throughout the store and story-readers in the children’s section. Check upcoming bulletins for more details.
Giving the “Shirt Off Your Back”: Two Stories of Christian Outreach
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sbury First volunteers are wonderful people who give of their time and talent in service to those in our community who are in need. But sometimes, they go far beyond what we ask of them. Recently, two stories came to our attention that we wanted to share: While delivering supplies to the Storehouse, one of our volunteers happened upon a young man with an appointment at a time when the Storehouse was closed. Rather than turn the man away, he helped the stranger find some much-needed clothing. Sadly, the most needed item was a belt, but there was none in stock. Rather than sending the man away without one, the volunteer took off his own belt and handed it to the grateful client. Leaving the public market with a hot cup of coffee, another volunteer happened upon a bedraggled man just one block from the market with a cardboard sign which read: “money for coffee.” The two made eye contact. She pointed to her cup of coffee and his eyes lit up! Reaching out her car window, she handed him her coffee. Christian love personified; times two!
– Nancy Davidow. 6
Imper fection
by Rev. Linda Clemow
I’ve written about imperfection in this column before but I recently discovered a very interesting Japanese concept that puts it into perspective for me. It is called Wabi Sabi. It seems to fit with what I try to emphasize in my classes. I may not always follow it in my art but it is a great concept for thoughts and feelings about art – especially your own creations. Wabi Sabi is the quintessential and comprehensive Japanese aesthetic centered on the beauty of transience, incompleteness and imperfection. It is a concept derived from the Buddhist teaching of the three marks of existence – specifically impermanence, the other two being suffering and emptiness, or the absence of selfnature. Wabi is the kind of beauty that comes from having just the right kind of imperfection – an asymmetrical handmade bowl as opposed to a bowl which is perfect and soulless. Sabi is the kind of beauty that comes with age – the patina and wear on a carved October 27 Luke 18:9-27 28 John 15:11-27 29 Matthew 11:20-30 30 John 8:12-30 31 John 8:31-47 November 1 Luke 6:17-36 2 Isaiah 25:1-12 3 Luke 19:1-10 4 Luke 19:11-27 5 Psalm 17:1-15
piece of wood, for example. Imagine a lifestyle – for that is what Wabi Sabi in the traditional sense is – where the fact that nothing is perfect allows us the space, time and freedom to live in the moment and engage with being creative. Imagine learning to look at an object and seeing the
imperfections as beauty. Imagine looking at the imperfect faces and bodies of those around us and seeing all as beautiful! Wabi Sabi also applies to things in nature. It originally only applied to the world of nature. But over the centuries it came to include
6 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 7 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 8 Luke 20:1-18 9 Luke 20:19-40 10 Psalm 98:1-9 11 Revelation 14:1-13 12 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 7
Luke 4:31-44 Luke 5:17-26 Luke 6:37-49 Luke 8:40-56 Luke 20:41-21.6 Luke 21:7-24 Luke 21:25-38
material things as well. Several years ago I was teaching a drawing class. I had prepared a still-life for the students’ drawing exercise. In the still-life I included quite a few sunflowers long past their prime – long, long past. There was much complaining and resistance. I pointed out that the old flowers, with heads and petals bent towards the table, had their own particular beauty. It was only after drawing the still-life that they began to see there was an elegance in the aged beauties. The stress of time, and the impermanence of their existence, added a dimension beyond words of melancholy and soul. Many artists-students and professionals have a difficult time with the concept of perfection. Their work is “not good enough,” not “perfect,” and therefore has no value. It is an ongoing battle with their psyches! But now that I have discovered this philosophy, I will be working with my students to learn to embrace Wabi Sabi.
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Psalm 46:1-11 2 Chronicles 29:1-11 2 Samuel 5:1-13 Psalm 122:1-9 Psalm 93:1-5 Luke 18:28-43 Isaiah 2:1-22 Romans 13:1-14 Luke 17:20-37 1 Chronicles 15:25-16.7 Luke 5:1-16
We rely on YOU.
A
s your church leaders forge plans for the many ministries of Asbury First in the coming year, we want you to know that it’s only your support that allows us to feed the hungry, clothe the needy, teach the children, pres-
ent meaningful worship services – and perform countless other acts to serve the kingdom of Jesus Christ. Make ministry happen at Asbury First in 2014 with your pledge of support, and be a part of the chain of love and compassion that flows out from our church to the global community. Please cut out this form and mail it to Asbury First UMC, 1050 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14607, attn: Dick Moncrief; or place it in the offering plate on Sunday, or fill out the online form at www.asburyfirst.org. Thank you for taking aleadership role in the ministries of Asbury First. Asbury First United Methodist Church 2014 Stewardship Pledge Drive To continue Christ’s work, I/we offer this gift of financial support to the annual operating budget for 2014: My/our estimate of giving for 2014 is___________________________ per month for 12 months = $ OR $_______________________ _per (week, day, etc.)= $ OR increase last year's gift by _____ ____percent In addition, I/we offer a designated gift of $_______________________________________ to be used for If you would like envelopes, please indicate your preference. ❑ monthly ❑ weekly Are you interested in electronic funds transfer? ❑ yes (If yes, we will contact you) Total estimated gift for 2014 $ Name(s): Address: email:
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total total
• A cafe with heart •
AFUMC Members Lend a Hand at West Avenue UMC Youth Program by Diana Carter
I
t’s Friday night and the buzzer sounds at the side door of West Avenue United Methodist Church. In blows a little girl I’ll call Keisha and her older sister. Keisha, a third grader, inevitably enters with a frown on her expressive face. Keisha’s older sister, who I’ll call Raven, is in seventh grade, and has learned to be more reserved. Her face has more of a wary look. Both come armed with attitude each week, waiting to see what will befall them. They live in a world full of hard knocks and they’ve already learned the ways of survival in that world.
stay in the parlor where the meal was served and play board games. Whatever the choices offered, if it’s new and it seems the least bit educational, Raven usually says she’s not interested. “Miss, I don’t want to do that,” she’ll say. And if you don’t react, she’ll say, “MISS, I DON’T WANT TO DO THAT!” But she stays anyway, eyeing the activity until she becomes comfortable. Keisha is almost always willing to jump right in, her frown replaced by a look of eagerness. Suzette is great at cajoling and sometimes requiring the kids to try something new: a book club for younger girls, an educational film about the appropriate ways of dealing with the opposite sex for the teens, and social skills role playing for everyone. (Suzette believes electronics are robbing kids of the ability to communicate face to face.) Sometimes there are rap sessions led by Ray, who works with troubled teens during the day. After these educational programs, the kids get to play games. The church has a Wii system, but board games like Uno and Connect Four are just as popular.
Even though the kids know they can leave their troubles at the door when they walk into West Avenue’s Kids Café, it takes a while for them to drop their armor. Here they’ll be received by Ray or Milton, men of the church who sign the kids in and help maintain order. And they’re always greeted with a warm hug from Suzette, who coordinates the café and often leads the activities. Once a month, volunteers from Asbury First UMC help out at West Avenue’s Kids Café. Typically it’s Andy Dutcher, Carolyn and Fred Hamel, Jim and Diana Carter and their twins, Brian and Peter. Sometimes Ellen Lamb joins us. We bring a meal –Andy’s meatball subs, or chili made by Diana and Carolyn. There’s always salad or a vegetable, fruit and dessert, too. Before we eat, children and adults gather in a circle and say a prayer. Some nights Pastor Nola is on hand and she’ll lead a brief service. The message usually is one of encouragement or assurance of God’s love. Other times that evidence of love comes by way of Suzette, who asks the children to offer up their joys and concerns. Then we sit down to eat together. Some of the teenagers are just too cool, or prefer the food at home, so they sit to the side during the meal and listen to their music or play with their cell phones. Soon enough, though, the tables are put away and it’s time for activi-
Often, Raven will admit after the educational program that it was fun, and ask to do it again another time. Her face finally starts to show signs of engagement. Several times Asbury First has sponsored field trips: a Red Wings game, a visit to Adventure Landing, scaling the walls at Rock Ventures. At these times, all the old familiar faces of Kids Café members show up. The teens come as eagerly as the little ones.
Asbury First members were there when the West Avenue Kid’s Café folks went exploring at RockVentures.
ties. If there are enough volunteers (and there sometimes aren’t when the Asbury First folks aren’t there) there are several choices: a game room with a pool table and air hockey; a computer room; and a library for a quiet activity. If there are not very many volunteers, all the kids 9
Asbury First helps out by financing these adventures, supplying food and paper goods for the café, and even bringing Christmas or graduation gifts for the members of Kids Café. But its biggest contribution is the time and energy of its people. Those of us who participate, though, agree our contributions are small compared to the reinvigoration we receive each month from the children at Kids Café.
Asbury First UMC Income
2012 Actual 700
Pledge Donations
$ 712,599
$ 731,675
$ 748,424
Unpledged Donations
$ 36,879
$ 60,000
$ 47,803
Designated Gifts
$ 102,472
$ 94,888
$ 107,122
Other Contributions
$ 13,559
$ 13,000
$ 12,860
Subtotal Contributions
$ 865,509
$ 899,563
$ 916,209
Designated Fundraising
$ 104,295
$ 74,461
$ 106,952
Property Usage
$ 55,471
$ 56,841
$ 58,986
Endowment Income
$ 138,847
$ 138,787
$ 137,696
Endowment for Growth
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
Other
$ 8,256
$ 2,250
$ 4,318
TOTAL
$ 1,222,378
$ 1,221,902 $ 1,274,161
Carryover from previous year
$ 212,840
$ 212,840
$ 146,805
600
500
400
300
200
100
2012 Actual / $1,274,161
2013 Plan
2013 Pl an / $1,221,902
2013 Actual
2013 Actual / $1,222,378
Janu ar y - S e ptemb er 2013 Fin anc i al R e p or t
Income
800
0
In total, the income during the first nine months of the year was $1,222,378 which is right where it was expected to be. However, designated gifts and designated fundraising is up $40,000 from where it was forecasted (which is great), while the income to run the Church is off budget by $40,000 (which is a big concern).
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Pledged donations: Income from members who submitted pledges is off by $20,000 from where it was budgeted. The budget is a forecast of the timing of the way everyone fulfills their pledge (based on previous year’s experience). It is hoped that the shortfall closes by year end and everyone fulfills their pledge as committed.
Unpledged donations: These are gifts that can be tracked from both non-members and members of the congregation who did not make estimates of giving pledges. With many families choosing not to pledge last year, it was forecasted that they would continue to financially support the church so this area’s budget was increased from last year. As you can see, the amount received is well below budget and 25 percent less than last year.
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Designated Gifts: Generosity continues from all as the total designated gifts are roughly at the same level as last year. This income can only be spent on what the intent of the gift was. None of this income can be used for the day-to-day running of the church programs.
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Other Contributions: It is worth noting that our plate collections (amount received during services that cannot be tracked to an individual) are up 10 percent from this time last year. Designated Fundraising: Included here is the fundraising (including gifts from outside foundations) for the Dining and Caring Center, Storehouse and youth mission trip. The level of fundraising is roughly the same as this time last year.
Financial Summary / January 1-September 31, 2013
Expenses 2012 Actual
700
$ 667,613
$ 660,406
$ 601,970
Utilities and maintenance
$ 166,351
$ 177,889
$ 164,898
600
Administrative
$ 61,982
$ 62,717
$ 39,716
500
Conference Apportionment
$ 128,672
$ 129,796
$ 128,865
Worship & Devotional
$ 34,562
Education
$ 64,269
$ 59,175
$ 82,242
Communications
$ 25,496
$ 39,762
$ 19,484
Membership Care
$ 18,324
$ 11,031
$ 11,856
Outreach
$ 176,786
$ 173,944
$ 171,066
TOTAL
$ 1,354,055
$ 1,347,892 $ 1,250,625
400
$ 33,172
$ 30,528 300
200
100
0
Through the first nine months of the year, we have spent $1,354,055. This is slightly more than we had planned due to spending on designated items. If the designated spending is removed from the total, we have spent $10,000 less than our budget so far this year, however some of the program spending under-run may be timing within the year.
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Staffing: Spending is higher than we had planned by $17,000 due to non-salary related items that we did not plan for.
Utilities and maintenance: Spending on utilities continues well under budget, saving $11,000 in our budget to date. So far, we have spent roughly the same as last year to support facilities. (This spending does not include major improvements like the roofing in 1050 East Ave. or the sound system.) Administrative: These are expenses to run the office of the church (including publications). They are right on plan. The increase from last year is related to some projects supported by designated funds. Worship and Devotional: Spending to support the worship services is right on budget.
Education: Spending in this category is higher than plan but less than last year. The differences all have to do with the cost of the youth mission trip, which is completely funded by designated fundraising. Communications: Spending here is lower than we had planned (so far). The difference is that we have not spent the money to upgrade the church website yet this year.
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Outreach Spending: In total, we have dispensed $176,000 in the first nine months for specific outreach efforts. Inside of this is the spending for the Dining and Caring Center, Storehouse, and generous gifts to Grocery Bag Ministries, RAIHN, UMCOR, Egel Funds, and others. Carryover: Due to unexpected giving and mindful spending in previous years, we had a carryover of funds from last year of $212,840. The funds are being used to support the spending of the church this year as there was not enough planned income to support all the church planned to do this year.
In summary In total (through the first nine months) we have spent $132,000 more than we have received in income. This spending has been covered by the carryover from last year. However, the budget did not plan for the shortfall in giving (both pledged and unpledged). This $40,000 shortfall, through the first nine months, is a significant concern. The congregations’s help is needed to close this shortfall. Otherwise, we wlll have to cut back on our planned spending for the balance of the year. – Doug Major, Chair, Finance Committee 11
Janu ar y - S e ptemb er 2013 Fin anc i al R e p or t
Staffing
2012 Actual / $1,250,625
2013 Plan
2013 Pl an / $1,347,892
2013 Actual
2013 Actual / $1,354,055
Income
800
The UMYF Wall: Core Values, Boldly Proclaimed
United Methodism 202
The Social Principles
Sundays, November 3, 10, 17, and 24 12:15 p.m. 1050 East Ave. Dining Room •
Does The United Methodist Church have a stance on food justice?
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have all been working together to renovate our weekly meeting space to make it a little
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f you have not been down to the youth room recently, it is worth a field trip. Our youth program has undergone many changes and transitions in the last several months and
sexuality or access to health care?
the youth room was not to be left out of the mix. Our youth, parents, and adult leaders more inviting and intentional. One of the most recent changes has been to brighten up
Do we care how space is explored or how genetic technology is used?
one of our walls with a lot of color that quite literally makes a statement. The end result is amazing, and the path it took to get there was incredible as well.
What do we believe about human
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During one of many conversations about renovating the room, a comment was made
Is it ok to drink alcohol in front of other United Methodists?
about possibly spray-painting the walls. This was then considered seriously as a way to create a youthful mural on one of the walls – but not necessarily with the literal use of spray-paint. Some youth and leaders tried to contact local artists who work in this medium, and we came across the FUA Krew (FUA-Krew.org), an international graffiti crew with representation here in the Rochester area. However these artists did not have their
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What about gambling?
If you have ever wondered about what the church believes in regard to these
contact information posted on their website. About a week after coming across their
or any other social issues, please join
website, Rev. Stephen Cady stopped by a graphic sign store on Park Avenue and hap-
us for Methodism 202: The Social
pened to mention the idea we had for our youth room wall. As it turns out, the employ-
Principles beginning at 12:15 p.m. on
ee with whom Stephen was talking put us in connection with a local artist who knew FUA Krew members, and, finally, our featured wall was painted by two local graffiti artists in the FUA Krew (FUA stands for From Up Above). When we met with the artists and pre-
Sunday, November 3 and running for four weeks. The cost of the class will be
sented them with our idea and our core values, they suggested simply putting the words
$4 to offset the cost of the book. NO
on the wall. We decided to put our trust in these two artists. They brought their painting
PREREQUISITES required, but Method-
supplies (numerous cans of spray paint and a few drop cloths) and brought our youth core-values to life. If you are unfamiliar with our core-values, these are six words that articulate the essence of our youth programming here at Asbury First. They were chosen during a brainstorming session last spring with some of our youth and adult leaders. And so, thanks to a little help “From Up Above”, our youth will now always be reminded that UMYF is a place that is: Safe, Open-Minded, Loving, Chill, Fun-Loving, Consistent, and Passionate. – Mike Mullin 12
ism 101 is encouraged for context!
Upcoming events
Friday-Saturday, November 22-23, 7:00 p.m. Sunday, November 24, 1:00 p.m. Fellowship Hall Tickets: $10/$5 students and seniors, available after services on Sundays and at the door before each performance Join our Asbury First youth as they bring to life the delightful musical tale of Tevye, Golde, and their strong-willed daughters, caught in a conflict between traditional ways and outside influences in Tzarist Russia.
music & the arts please join us for these upcoming concerts! Amadeus Chorale
Caribbean Christmas Mass with the Irondequoit Chorale Sunday December 22 3:00 p.m.
Friday, December 6 7:00 p.m.
Concentus in Concert
Madrigalia in Concert
Sunday, December 15 3:00 p.m.
January 25 8:00 p.m. 13
Library news November commences holiday season with Thanksgiving and Christmas vacations and extra reading time. So we have some November Resource Library selections that will help you choose vacation-reading books. Take a look at the selections below for children, young adults and adults. They are just a few of the many possibilities available for loan in the Church Resource Library. The library is located just off the gathering space near the elevators. When the church is open, the library is open, and everyone is welcome. Come in and browse! Children: Annie and Helen, by Deborah Hopkinson. Author Deborah Hopkinson and illustrator Raul Colón present the story of Helen Keller in a fresh and original way that is perfect for young children. This 48-page book is especially written for the age 4-8 audience. It explains the process of educating the deaf and blind that was pioneered by Annie Sullivan.
public eye and moved with his wife, Mary Jo, to a bare-necessities cabin on an uninhabited island off the coast of Maine. This isolated home they came to call Moosewood. It was the setting for Jack and Mary Jo’s spiritual awakening. Illuminata: A Return to Prayer, by Marianne Williamson. Illuminata deals with prayer in our daily lives, with prayers on topics from releasing anger to finding forgiveness, from finding great love to achieving intimacy. There are prayers for couples, for parents, and for children; prayers to mend broken relationships and prayers to overcome obsessive and compulsive love. There are prayers to heal the soul, prayers to heal the body, and prayers for work and creativity.
Journey, by Aaron Becker. This debut novel was created and illustrated by Aaron Becker. It is reminiscent of Harold and the Purple Crayon and is 40 pages that will appeal to ages 4-8. In this promising picture book, a lonely girl escapes the boredom of a sepia-toned world by drawing a doorway to a magical realm. This child uses a red crayon and a lot of imagination to venture across a Venice-like kingdom, fly among a fleet of airships, and take off on a magic carpet ride.
Parenting Section: 59 Seconds: Change Your Life In Under a Minute, by Richard Wiseman. A psychologist and best-selling author gives a myth-busting response to the self-help movement, with tips and tricks to improve your life that come straight from the scientific community. Now, in 59 Seconds, he brings together the scientific advice that could help us be happier, perform better, procrastinate less, improve relationships, reduce stress and be a better parent.
Teens: Rubber Houses, by Ellen Yeomans. Rubber Houses is a moving free-verse novel about 17-year-old Kit’s experiences of loving her 9-year-old brother, losing him to cancer, and moving on but never forgetting. For ages 12-18, the book deals with this teen’s ultimate coping strategy following her loss.
If you don’t find the book you want or need in the Church Resource Library, try the Spiritual Life Library in 1010 East Avenue’s Meditation Room.
Adult: Finding Moosewood, Finding God: What Happened When a TV Newsman Abandoned His Career for Life on an Island, by Jack Perkins. At the age of 52 and at the height of his career, Jack Perkins, an NBC correspondent, commentator, and anchorman, disappeared from the
Remember to return the books you have borrowed so that others are able to enjoy them.
This is a Test! (answers are on page X and in the church libraries)
a Asbury has (a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 libraries available for your use. a The church libraries are open (a) 8-5 p.m. daily (b) when the church is open (c) by appointment only. a The cost to borrow books from the church libraries is (a) nothing (b) 25 cents (c) depends upon how long you keep the book. a The church libraries are located in (a) the Narthex (b) 1010 East Ave. (c) right off the Gathering Space a Books may be borrowed from the church libraries for (a) 1 week (b) 3 weeks (c) forever. a The church libraries have books for (a) children (b) young adult (c) all ages. a (a) Children (b) adults (c) everyone may borrow books from the church libraries a Funds for church libraries come from (a) church budget (b) donations (c) memorial gifts. a Church library books include (a) reference books (b) fiction (c) non-fiction. a Asbury First has had a church library for (a) 36 years (b) 25 years (c) since the beginning of time. 14
the last word 1 by Wendy Brown Baird 2
Dinner Among Friends Sets New Records O
n Saturday, September 28, close to three hundred people took part in the Seventh Annual Dinner Among Friends to benefit the Asbury Dining and Caring Center. Thanks to this record turn-out and the generosity of our sponsors, we raised net proceeds of well over $20,000, an all-time high! The evening began with an hors d’oeuvres reception at Asbury First United Methodist Church, where attendees enjoyed appetizers donated by Jines Restaurant, Rochester Riverside Convention Center, Signatures at Humphrey House, and Tasteful Connections; with music by Laurie Kennedy and Beth Glaza, both of whom donated their time. From there, guests traveled to private homes where meals ranged from a kidfriendly barbecue to sit-down beef tenderloin for 32. Our guests cannot thank you personally. But, one cold morning this winter, please stop for a moment and imagine a crowd of hungry people gathered in a warm, inviting dining room, enjoying a hot meal and the comfort of good friends. Your participation in DAF makes that image a reality.
Special thanks to this year’s hosts for their exceptional generosity: Tim & Libby Ashley Dave & Sandra Holloway/Ray & Tom & Judy Bristow Marilyn Waring John & Angie Burch Timothy Johnson & Robert Miller Stephen & Emily Cady Carol Kramer & Ron Stallworth Larry & Karen Conrad Jeffrey Lamica Len & Nancy Davidow David & Karen Long Peter & Tess Doerner Phil & Morna Monahan Larry & Robyn Gage Diane Lucas & Maxine Morse
Betty Nichols Jeanne Rowe & Linda Shevlin John & Susan Shafer Dick & Ann Standish Al & Laura Swett Carol Trout/Andy Dutcher/ Dawn Riedy/Ruthellen Hoyle Teddi Urriola
Heartfelt gratitude goes to our sponsors for their generous financial support: Presenting Sponsor Dutcher & Zatkowsky; Gold Sponsors, Federated Clover Investment Advisors, and Howe & Rusling; Silver Sponsors, American Packaging Corporation, An Anonymous Friend, Jim & Carmen Brush, and Nolan’s Rental; Bronze Sponsors, Canandaigua National Bank, Edward Jones, Hammer Packaging, The Powers Law Firm, A.D. Simonetti Properties, Summit Federal Credit Union, and Thomson Reuters. Kittelberger Florist, Make Waves Salon, and Art Sparks provided in-kind support. Last, but certainly not least, we thank the volunteers—most of whom also serve on Asbury’s Embrace Team–who donated countless hours of time to make this year’s event so successful: Sandra Holloway, Martha Tuke, Nancy Davidow, Andrea Adair, Jim Stinehour, Elaine Short, Mary Walker, Jeffrey Lamica, Cathy Bracht, Morna Monahan, and Ann Standish.
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Clockwise, from top left: Ike Jordan and Shirley Petherbridge at the appetizer reception; John and Henrietta Foster, and Dave and Beth Rice in the Gathering Center ; musical entertainment was beautifully supplied by Beth Glaza and Laurie Kennedy; some of Rochester’s finest restaurants supported the event through their donations of delicious appetizers.
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PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
Christmas Altar Poinsettia Donation Form
Given by_________________________________________________________________________________ (please print clearly)
phone: day______________________________evening____________________________________________ Please check one of the following and print the names clearly: ____in loving memory of: ____________________________________________________________________ ____in honor of: __________________________________________________________________________ ____in celebration of:_______________________________________________________________________ ____a donation. Please return this form to the church office, attention Beverly Schuman, no later than Thursday, December 6. Please include your donation. Checks should be made payable to Asbury First UMC Altar Guild. Thank you, and have a very merry Christmas!