TheVisitor
Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter May 2012 • Vol. XLVI No. 4 • www.asburyfirst.org
In This Issue Blood Drive, 4 School #41 Update, 5 Garden Committee, 6 Financial Review, 7 Men’s Retreat, 12
The Visitor
Mission Statement
Vol. XLVI No. 4
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.
What Time is it?
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
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. – Ecclesiastes 3:1
Staff
Rev. Susan S. Shafer Rev. Phillip W. Phaneuf Rev. Lawrence Hargrave David T. Strong Dr. William J. Weinert Paula Dugan Melissa Bohrer Richard Moncrief Melody Guadagnino Michele Cooley Jason Franklin Mary Van Keuren Ashley Eckman
Duane A. Prill David T. Strong Bozena Granat Elizabeth Church Brian Bohrer Larry Dugan Megan Phaneuf
Senior Pastor Pastor Pastor Administrative Director of Music and the Arts Artistic Director of Music and the Arts Co-director of Children’s Ministry Co-director of Children’s Ministry Financial Administrator Administrative Assistant Dining & Caring Center Director Property Care Manager Communications Director & Editor Together in Ministry (Volunteer) Coordinator Organist Assistant Organist Director, Children’s Music Director, Bell Choir Director, Youth Music Director, Youth Theater Photographer
For much of human history, people have observed and analyzed the surrounding environment to determine the time of day, season of the year and the year in the context of the continuum of recorded history. We strive to answer the question “What time is it?” Many of us look out our windows in January and expect to see snow and in May expect to see flowers. We find comfort in our anticipated surety of making these conclusions. We look at the position of the moon during the night and the sun during the day and make assumptions based on what many ancient people seriously studied. What time is it? We use time to organize our days and our lives. We use time measurements to contemplate the past and imagine the future. The writer C. S. Lewis observed “The future is something which everyone reaches at the rate of 60 minutes an hour, whatever he does, whoever he is.” It is interesting to see what has changed in the ways that we keep track of time. One study suggests that 60 percent of persons aged 16 through 34 use a cellphone or other electronic device to tell time. We are using fewer wrist watches and alarm clocks to answer the question “What time is it?”
Cover: The Alpha and Omega: carved stone on Asbury First’s front facade. Photo by Megan Phaneuf. Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@asburyfirst.org or (585) 271-1050 x109. Deadline for next issue: Monday, June 11
The writer of Hebrews states in Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. In our current location in the continuum of time, that is a source of comfort as we contemplate the question “ What time is it?” Blessings, Lawrence 2
AFUMC news Rev. Dr. Theodore Weeden, to be named senior pastor emeritus, is a Biblical scholar and theologian who served as Asbury First’s senior pastor from 1977-1995. A native of Georgia, Ted served churches in the South and taught at institutions of higher learning including Shaw University, Wake Forest University, and Crozer Theological Seminary. A life-long advocate for civil rights, social justice and interfaith issues, he is also noted as the author of Mark: Traditions in Conflict. Asbury First’s senior pastor, Rev. Susan Shafer, has fond memories of Rev. Weeden. “For 18 years, Asbury First flourished under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Theodore J. Weeden Sr. Ted, as we came to know him, supported staff through collegial leadership. He helped parishioners to listen for the calling of God in their lives, encouraging them toward the ordained ministry as well as giving scholarly and inspiring voice in teaching and preaching. We were and are blessed by his presence and his faith.” Asbury First Honors Distinguished Individuals Organist emeritus Marian Reiff CraigOn June 10 at the 11:00 a.m. service, three individuals who head came to Asbury First soon after have had a great impact on our faith community will be the Sanctuary was built, in 1956. She honored. Former director of the Sanctuary Choir Roger Wilwould spend the next forty years of her helm, Senior Pastor Emeritus Theodore Weeden, and former life, until just before her death in 1996, organist Marian Craighead will be acknowledged for their bringing joy to the people of our church contributions to our faith community. All will be given the through her exquisite technique at the designation “emeritus” to signify their continuing impact on church’s Austin organ. The wife of noted Asbury First. musician (and head of Eastman School Roger Wilhelm served for nearly thirty years as director of the Sanctuary Choir – of Music’s organ department) David Craighead, she released he will now be considered director emeri- a CD with her husband titled The Craigheads at Asbury: Organ tus. This beloved member of Asbury First Duets Played by Marian & David Craighead. Marian was dediis also an abiding force in music, both lo- cated to Asbury First and to church musicianship in general, cally and beyond. He spent twenty years and wrote “As one whose entire adult life has been involved as the director of the Rochester Oratorio in church music, I find myself recalling snatches of solos and Society and nearly as long leading Mad- ahthems based on the poetry of the Psalms and leaning on the strength and faith expressed in these wonderful words.” rigalia, a well-respected chamber choir “Marian Craighead’s un-swerving dedication to her husband that produced five commercial CDs during Roger’s tenure. and children; her steadfast following of the Christian faith; “Roger’s musicality and technical skills are exemplary,” said and her impeccable musicianship are all attributes to which Asbury First Administrative Director of Music and Art David Strong. “We learned from and experienced music-making at a we should aspire,” said Asbury First organist Duane Prill. “Over level that was truly gratifying. But, perhaps more important, the course of 40+ years, she not only lived an honest Christian life serving Asbury First, she also incorporated the institution Roger’s greatest gift to us was his ability to relate to people of pipe organ music so firmly into the fabric of Asbury worand make a difference in their lives.” Silent Auction Donations Sought for DCC Fundraiser A weekend vacation stay, a round of golf, or a membership at Strong Museum, the Rochester Museum & Science Center, or Seneca Park Zoo. If you can help secure donations such as these, then you can make a big impact on the success of the Dining & Caring Center’s Sixth Annual Dinner Among Friends (DAF), to be held September 29, 2012. This year we’re introducing a silent auction and need assistance in securing donated items. If you have ideas or would like to contribute, please contact Bunny Dugo, auction chairperson, at bdugo@ centerforyouth.net. All DAF proceeds help to provide hot meals and other supportive assistance to our neighbors in need. Thank you, Asbury First community, for the many, many ways you support the Dining & Caring Center.
Continued on page 13
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June
July
1 Acts 5:1-16
1 Genesis 1:1-2:4a
2 Acts 5:17-42
2 Genesis 2:4b-25
3 Galatians 1:1-24
3 Genesis 3:1-24
4 Galatians 2:1-21
4 Genesis 6:1-22
5 Galatians 3:1-29
5 Genesis 7:1-24
6 Galatians 4:1-31
6 Genesis 8:1-22
7 Galatians 5:1-26
15 Colossians 2:20-3:17
23 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17
7 Genesis 9:1-17
8 Galatians 6:1-18
16 Colossians 4:2-18
24 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18
8 Genesis 12:1-20
9 Philippians 1:1-30
17 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
25 Hebrews 8:1-13
9 Genesis 13:1-18
10 Philippians 2:1-30
18 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20
26 Hebrews 9:1-28
10 Genesis 14:1-24
11 Philippians 3:1-21
19 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13
27 Hebrews 10:1-39
11 Genesis 15:1-21
12 Philippians 4:1-23
20 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18
28 Hebrews 11:1-40
12 Genesus 16:1-16
13 Colossians 1:1-29
21 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28
29 Hebrews 12:1-29
13 Genesis 17:1-27
14 Colossians 2:1-19
22 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
30 Hebrews 13:1-25
14 Genesis 18:1-33
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We need you! Our community needs you! Donate Blood at the Asbury First Blood Drive Please help us meet our goal of 45 donations. Donating is easy, and takes about one hour in the donor area. You will have a mini-physical and learn your blood type. Why:
In the United States, a blood transfusion is needed almost every 2 seconds. Approximately 34,000 units of blood are used each day in the United States. About one out of every three of us will face a life threatening need for a blood transfusion in our lifetime.
When:
Sunday, June 3, 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Where:
Fellowship Hall (downstairs)
Who: You are eligible to give blood if you are: In general good health . Generally, between 17 and 75 years of age. Or, 16 and accompanied by a parent. For those of you over 75, and who have not donated in recent years, you can check with your doctor. Weigh at least 110 pounds 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 800-215-1659. Call Melody in the Church office to set up your appointment. 271-1050 x103 or mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org.
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AFUMC news Brueggemann Lecture and Workshop a Success Rev. Dr. Walter Brueggemann’s April visit to Asbury First will be long remembered for the wit and wisdom (as well as the great sense of humor) that he brought to us. His evening lecture, “The Food Fight of Faith,” was a profoundly evocative meditation on the theology of scarcity and abundance through Biblical times and into our own day. Roughly 400 people, many from the greater Rochester community, attended, giving Brueggemann a standing ovation and reveling in the great theologian’s animated delivery and vibrant personality. The next morning Brueggemann presented a workshop, “The Artistry of Prayer,” in the more intimate setting of the Gathering Center. A sold out crowd of 100 listened to an explication of two poems, written by Brueggemann for the occasion. A true teacher, the former professor of Old Testament solicited frequent input from the workshop attendees, listening and responding respectfully to all questions and comments. Brueggemann was brought to Asbury First through the auspices of the Robert A. Hill Lectureship, and with the assistance of the Center for Spiritual Life under the leadership of Libby Hearne. Thanks to all those who played a role in bringing this dynamic scholar to our faith community.
School #41 Students Give Broken Crayons to Asbury First Youth
Y
es, you read that correctly! As you
may know, the Asbury First youth will be melting down used crayons, making them
School #41
Children of Jamaica
▼ =
Asbury First Youth
into multi-color, heart-
who often benefit from our Asbury First youth, are now giving back and know their crayons are being shared with less fortunate children in Jamaica. As I see it, this is a triangle of love, from School
shaped crayons to take them to the children of Jamaica on
#41 – to the youth of Asbury – to the children of Jamaica
their mission trip this summer. When Jeanne Rowe, long-
– connect the dots and soften the corners of the triangle –
time volunteer at School #41, noticed a collection of broken
and you have a heart. Hearts to hearts to hearts = love! –In
crayons in the kindergarten room she asked if she could
Christ’s love, Nancy Davidow,
have them for our Asbury First youth. This led to a request for
School #41 Coordinator.
crayons to our school liaison, who in turn, collected crayons from every classroom at School #41. The School #41 children, 5
Together in Ministry
Volunteering at asbury first by Ashley Eckman Karen: “I needed more garden space, my home garden is small. Anne and I saw how the gardens at 1010 needed care. They were sad. We thought,‘We can do this!’ We felt good watching them improve. Why do you think others should consider serving in this way? Anne: “Volunteering is a way to feel more connected to our faith and provide service to God and others. It also creates an opportunity to expand our circle of friends in the church family.
“One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth.” –Dorothy Frances Gurney
A
Karen: “It is great to be outside with nature. Joining the Garden Committee has been a way for me to feel connected. It is also a great way to meet people. Often while we are working, folks stop to chat.
s new members, Anne Justus and Karen Hibbard were eager to get involved. Last spring, they each took a leap of faith and traveled to France with a group led by Rev. Susan Shafer. Not knowing each other before the trip, they were assigned as seatmates on the plane ride. This allowed them plenty of time to share their mutual passion for gardening. When they returned to Rochester, they found a request for gardening help at 1010 East Ave. in The Visitor. Together, they responded. Why do you enjoy volunteering? Anne: “I think our spiritual home should be beautiful inside and out, the gardens add visual beauty and demonstrate our level of caring and devotion to our faith.” Karen: “Gardening is my expression of faith. As a retired nurse practitioner, I have cared for God’s people for so long. Today I feel called to care for God’s environment. How do you feel it makes a difference in the life of our church?
Bob Schuman, Garden Committee co-chair, praises the efforts of these two women: “For several years we
have been fighting a losing battle with weeds in the garden of 1010. Last spring, we had the good fortune to have Anne and Karen, join the Garden Committee. They took on the challenge with passion and commitment. Through their efforts the weeds have been removed, new plantings installed and the area greatly improved. We see the benefits of their hard work. Thank you Anne and Karen!” From their trip to France through their year of gardening together, Anne and Karen have grown to be fast friends. For their next gardening transformation, they have connected with the Asbury Day Care Center. They are eager to work with the children to improve the existing butterfly garden in the ‘Outdoor Classroom,’ which is located in the playground area on the Asbury First campus.
Are you interested in volunteering on the Garden Committee?
Anne: “Beauty is for all to enjoy. It brings happiness and comfort to those who choose to savor the moment when visiting our church.”
All are welcome to join this vital ministry. The Garden Committee is responsible for maintaining existing gardens on the Asbury First campus, as well as recommending and implementing long range plans for landscaping. The goal of the Garden Committee is to enhance the welcoming spirit of the campus for all who come to worship and participate in the wide variety of ministries offered by Asbury First. The gardens are well cared for, and we appreciate the dedication and hard work of all committee members. We always welcome more helping hands. Work schedules are flexible. If you are interested, contact Jeanne Ristau, Garden Committee co-chair at jristau@frontiernet.net or 223-4356.
Karen: “This is another aspect of stewardship. We are responsible to steward our environment. How does volunteering make a difference for you personally? Anne: “By giving, I not only add to the joy of others, but it enriches my life in many ways. True friendships are solidified in addition to spiritual friendships.”
For additional volunteer opportunities, contact Ashley Eckman, Together in Ministry coordinator at 271-1050 x112. 6
A s b ury F i r s t U M C 201 2 F i n a nci a l S u mm a ry Connecting Stewardship and Ministry / January-March 2012
A Letter from Revered Susan S. Shafer With your help, our Sunday services are indeed filled with beautiful “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.” For these things and many more, please accept our deepest thanks. You are at the very heart of who we are and what we do, and I am filled with gratitude for your willingness to open yourself to Christ’s love and join with one of you means to us. It is also my hope that you are aware of the ways in which we, your pastors and staff, are here to serve you. As a community founded in God’s caring and mercy, we are charged with loving and supporting one another at all times. It is always a joy to connect with you in any way in which you’re comfortable – whether that be by email or phone, at a formal meeting or a few casual words exchanged on a Sunday morning. We are here to share in Dear Friends,
your celebrations, stand by you in your griefs, and walk
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and
next to you in your faith journey. I know I speak for my
admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude
colleagues when I say that it is an honor to be entrusted
in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to
with this charge.
God.” – Colossians 3.16
As I write this, heading into the summer months, you
Paul’s words echo in my heart today as I reflect on the
may be preparing for vacation or travel. Whether you
financial report on the following pages. Through your
are here each Sunday or not, however, know that we are
generosity, your thoughtful stewardship of your own time,
grateful for your presence in our lives, and for your many
talents, and treasures, we are able to thrive as a church
gifts to the church. No matter how far your roam, we will
community. Because of you, our outreach ministries
always be here at Asbury First, waiting for your return,
continue to support those in our neighborhoods and
with gratitude in our hearts.
beyond who are in need. Because of you, we are able to
Sincerely,
maintain our beautiful church grounds and buildings.
Rev. Susan S. Shafer
A supplement to the Asbury First newsletter, The Visitor
Janu ar y -March 2012 Fin anc i al R e p or t / 1
us in ministry. I hope you know how much each and every
Asbury First UMC Income
600
2011 Actual
Pledge donations
$ 310,112
$ 304,596
$ 312,044
Unpledged donations
$ 20,229
$ 10,500
$ 7,456
Designated Gifts
$ 45,355
$ 30,099
$ 89,261
Other contributions
$ 3,183
$ 3,000
$ 3,751
Subtotal contributions
$ 378,879
$ 348,195
$ 401,280
Designated Fundraising
$ 38,667
$ 22,040
$ 23,666
Property Usage
$ 19,572
$ 19,200
$ 15,944
Endowment income
$ 63,597
$ 58,058
$ 58,786
Endowment for Vision 2020
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
Other
$ 726
$ 500
$ 709
Carryover from past year
$ 43,426
$ 35,000
$ 42,219
TOTAL
$ 594,867
$ 532,993
$ 592,604
500
400
300
200
2011 Actual / $592,604
2012 Plan
2012 Pl an / $532,993
2012 Actual
2012 Actual / $594,867
Janu ar y -March 2012 Fin anc i al R e p or t / 2
Income
100
0
In total, the income during the first three months was $594,868 against our budget of $532,933. The amount we have received, in total, is more than 2010’s first three months income of $541,104. The $50,000 increase came from $20,000 of higher Designated Gifts and Fundrasing and $30,000 of higher contributions. Highlights of the first three months are:
1
Pledged donations: We have received $310,112 from those members of the Congregation who made pledges (including new member pledges). This is slightly ahead of what we had budgeted as we have seen a number of members pay ahead with stock transfers. This number is slightly ahead of last year year’s first three months. Thanks to everyone.
2 3
Unpledged donations: These are gifts that can be tracked from both non-members members of the Congregation who did not make Estimates of Giving. We have received $20,229, which is double what the budget was and more than double last year.
Designated Gifts: Although this looks like Designated Gifts are much lower than last year, the reason is the payments that were made by the individuals who went on the France trip in 2011 is in last year’s numbers.
8
4 5
Designated Fundraising: Fundraising (including gifts from outside Foundations) for the Dining Caring Center, Storehouse and Youth Mission trip is higher than anticipated for the first 3 months.
Carryover from last year: To remind everyone, the funds listed here are only those that are Designated. We will make an adjustment in next quarter’s report to show those funds that we carriedover from last year that are un-designated also.
Financial Summary / January 1-March 31, 2012
Expenses 2011 Actual
$ 193,509
$ 195,739
$ 207,498
Utilities and maintenance
$ 69,792
$ 80,045
$ 81,905
Administrative
$ 12,255
$ 15,658
$ 17,536
Conference Apportionment
$ 39,821
$ 39,821
$ 36,201
Worship & Devotional
$ 9,008
$ 9,527
$ 12,571
Education
$ 16,754
$ 15,436
$ 9,300
Communications
$ 7,427
$ 6,775
$ 12,329
Membership Care
$ 1,416
$ 1,171
$ 1,721
Outreach
$ 61,037
$ 62,724
$ 45,016
TOTAL
$ 411,019
$ 426,896
$ 424,077
400
300
200
100
0
Through the first three months of the year, we have spent $411,018. This is lower than we had planned by $15,000. We have spent $14,000 less than the first 3 months of last year this year. Explanations of spending are below.
1 2 3
Staffing: So far this year, we have spent almost exactly what we had budgeted. It is less than last year as we do not have 3 full-time pastors during the first half of this year. Utilities and maintenance: A huge benefit from our unusual winter was that we have saved $12,000 on gas and electric bills.
4
Outreach Spending: In total, we have dispensed $61,037 in the first three months for specific outreach efforts. Inside of this is the spending for the Dining Caring Center, Storehouse, and generous gifts to Egel Funds, UMCOR, African Mission, and the Grocery Bag Ministry.
Program Spending: Virtually all of the Program Spending of the Church is right where we thought it would be through the first 3 months.
9
Janu ar y -March 2012 Fin anc i al R e p or t / 3
Staffing
2011 Actual / $424,077
2012 Plan
2012 Pl an / $426,896
2012 Actual
2012 Actual / $4411,019
Income
500
Where the Money Comes From Other Contributions
Where the Money Goes
Carryover From Past Year
Endowment for Vision 2020
Membership Care Communications
Outreach
Education Worship & Devotional
Endowment Income Pledge Donations Property Usage
Designated Fundraising
Administrative
Other
Janu ar y -March 2012 Fin anc i al R e p or t / 4
Staffing Conference Apportionment
Designated Gifts Unpledged Donations
In summary As you all know, it took some effort to balance the budget this year. We had to ask members to prayerfully think about their pledging levels, more than once. We also had to use funds that we had not used last year (as a result of the departure of Mark Ralls and being short one full-time pastor). However, once the budget was balanced it has become very predictable. All of you who contribute reliably as you had pledged, and all those who make spending decisions as budgeted, keep the church in good financial health. This allows the complexity of the church finances to remain in the background allowing the missions of the church to proceed as they were planned.
Doug Major Chair, Finance Committee
Utilities & Maintenance
VBS 2012 Is Out of This World!
P
lease join us for Vacation Bible School August 6-9 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 that 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 Science Student guide Games Bible Stories Crafts Snack Nursery Caregiver Do you have any children under 4 that would need childcare when you volunteer? If yes, please list names and ages. __________________________________________________________________________________________
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Casowasco Peace: Retreat 2012 by Jim Carter A lone cross stands and waits, Beckoning all to come and rest. To venture out from daily routine, And find yourself along the quiet hill. Morning hikes up wooded trails, Escalating to the rapture of ripples over rocks. Casowasco calls. We sit. We talk. We talk some more. We laugh. We share. We search for our souls. We explore our common soul, both with each other and the world beyond. And with God. Always with God. Casowasco beckons us closer to God. The quiet of the camp pervades and calms. And promotes the peace. That inspires the meditation. And whether it takes 10 minutes or 10 hours, Casowasco eventually works its magic. We have retreated. To our closer walk with God.
The men’s annual retreat to Casowasco Camp and Retreat Center, a United Methodist Church facility on the shores of Owasco Lake in Moravia, N.Y., was held this year at the end of April. Thanks to Jim Carter for giving us permission to reprint his poem, and to Glenn Peck for his wonderful photos.
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Chocolate for Chacocente Joins District UMC’s Together Mary Church and Katherine Gage sell chocolate on Palm Sunday during Asbury First’s annual “Chocolate for Chacocente” fundraiser. This year’s sale was extended to include Hilton UMC and Greece UMC. Chocolate is donated and prepared by volunteers so 100% of the money raised goes directly to Project Chacocente. Thanks to everyone for preparing, selling, buying and eating to make this year’s sale a success!
ship that it’s absence would be noticed by all. My experience as organist at Asbury First, and that of my successors, will forever be changed by her dedication, musicianship, humor, and kindness.” Roudebush Circle Recognizes Service On April 29 at the 11:00 a.m. service, the Roudebush Circle of the UMW (United Methodist Women) presented Special Mission Recognition Pins to two extraordinary Asbury First women. The honorees were Melody Guadagnino and Ida Hickman. These ‘bright lights’ of Asbury First were recognized for their steadfast service and dedication to the highest interests of our church community. Ginn Fitch presented a pin to Ida Hickman, who is involved in Asbury First groups including the Altar Guild, URWellness Clinic, Fellowship class, Roudebush Circle, Communion Committee, Storehouse, and others. She is also a nurse at the Jewish Home and babysits her five grandchildren. “God blessed us all through her kind words, big smiles, and personality plus that she displays and delivers while working with the many Asbury First committees she serves on, said Fitch. Beth Woolever presented a pin to Melody Guadagnino. “As the dedicated administrative assistant for Asbury First’s church office, Melody has been responsible for keeping business running smoothly during the week since 2001,” said Woolever. “She is always dedicated , professional, and kind. A member of Asbury since 1999, she has twice served as Altar Guild president, and as a member of Worship and Communion committees.” Congratulations to both of these dedicated members of our church family.
Two Asbury First Youth Selected for Mission of Peace Shalom Ambassadors for the Northeast Jurisdictional Council on Youth Ministry’s Mission of Peace 2013 have been chosen and two Asbury First youth will be traveling to Cuba as members of this year’s team! Mary Church and Brennon Thompson were selected through an application and interview process. Each Annual Conference is allowed to select three youth per year. Mary and Brennon join eight former Asbury First youth chosen as Shalom Ambassadors who traveled to China, Cuba, India, Nicaragua and South Africa. The following is taken from the Genesee Valley District UMC website: The Mission of Peace (MOP) is a yearly journey of discovery and Shalom to nations in our global community sponsored by the United Methodist Church. On each MOP, participants worship in churches, meet youth in churches and civic organizations and share with people who have a similar longing for peace and understanding. These times have been the high points of each MOP experience. The MOP is a life changing experience! It is a journey which leads each participant to discover God’s Spirit at work in the world. It is an experience of God’s extended family. It is primarily a people to people experience in which we learn from our hosts how they live as disciples of Jesus Christ in their country. It is a mission which has brought us closer to God’s hoped for community where all are sisters and brothers. Each year the youth who represent the Annual Conferences of the United Methodist Church in the Northeastern Jurisdiction must raise the money which supports their MOP. Each youth is expected to share their experience at least five times upon their return. Those who have journeyed on the Mission of Peace give thanks to God and to all who have made it possible for us to make this journey. We pray daily for Shalom, for understanding between people, and that there may be the chance that others can journey on a Mission of Peace.
A Note From Rev. Susan Shafer Some of you are really good “counters”! You have discovered and mentioned that June represents the completion of thirty years of full-time appointment for me here at Asbury First and my 31st year if you count the first year, which was part time. What a privilege it is to minister among this marvelous and faithful community of God in Christ. You all fill me with inspiration and care that has made these years fly by. I continue to have new God-inspired visions for us all in our care for one another and our faithfulness to this community and beyond. These are great years and I thank you for them. I have asked that we recognize this milestone through prayer and a deeper and growing relationship with our God. That truly would be the greatest gift to me and to our church. We will have time to reflect and rejoice along the way and as we welcome Rev. Stephen Cady to our staff, we will celebrate his presence and his family’s presence among us with a reception on July 8. May we all continue to grow in the Spirit and to find expression for our faith. Blessings and thanksgiving to you all ! –Susan.
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Library news
S
ummertime is reading time and the church library wants to help you with that undertaking. The June library book selections are below and we invite you to stop by the Church Resource Library and check out our many selections for all ages. The library remains open all summer for your use The Wish, by Gail Carson Levine.
Children Come Worship With Me: A Journey Through the Church Year, by Ruth Boling, Illistrated by Tracey Dahle Carrier.
In Wilma’s middle school, she is left out, forgotten, ignored — until she meets an extraordinary old lady who grants a wish for Wilma to be the most popular kid in school. Presto! Everything changes. Now Wilma has more best friends than she can keep track of and forty dates to the Graduation Night Dance; and someone is writing her love poetry. What more could she want? Nothing! But will it last? How can Wilma make sure she is never unpopular again? This engaging novel for ages 9-12 explores the question of whether we really want to be liked for who we are.
The church mice who took us on a tour of Sunday worship in A Children’s Guide to Worship, are back, and this time they are teaching about the holidays and seasons of the church. In this colorful and beautifully illustrated children’s book, Advent, Christmas, Palm Sunday, Easter and more come alive as the mice trace the journey of the church year and invite children of all ages to worship. Brother Wolf, Sister Sparrow: Stories about Saints and Animals, by Eric A. Kimmel, Illustrations by John Winch.
Adults The Collected Sermons of Walter Brueggemann (252).
Readers in grades three and up will benefit from glimpses at the lives of 12 saints, each of whom has been linked to an animal in some way. The author presents the legends and gives the chronological and geographical context for each. His storytelling allows readers to come away with a clear sense of why these people are honored above others. This richly illustrated book should bring understanding and tolerance of differing traditions to any reader.
If you did, or didn’t, hear Dr. Brueggemann speak at Asbury First in April, you’ll want to hear his sermons provided in this collection. In addition to being one of the world’s leading interpreters of the Old Testament, Walter Brueggemann is a skilled and beloved preacher. This collection of sermons demonstrates Brueggemann’s fidelity to biblical texts, which come alive with meaning in our contemporary world.
Youth The Chosen, by Chaim Potok.
Cutting for Stone, by Abraham Verghese. This moving novel by a respected physician begins and ends with very difficult surgeries. While dealing with medicine and technical issues, this beautifully and compellingly written story is primarily one of family, love, life, loyalties and compassion. It is rich in detail, huge in heart, and very insightful. The story shows different perspectives of cultural diversity and moves from India to Ethiopia to a hospital in New York City over decades and generations.
The Jewish enclaves of Brooklyn, N.Y., form the backdrop for Chaim Potok’s classic novel that begins just before D-Day and traces the unlikely friendship of two Jewish teens as they watch World War II draw to a close and the new state of Israel emerge. This National Book Award finalist is suggested for grades 7 and up. The story revolves around the evolving, and sometimes painful, relationships between these boys and their fathers, and the conflicts the young men must face as they come of age.
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Our Living Deaths Merciful God, we entrust to your never-failing care and love We offer our prayers and sympathy to Marjorie Bleeg on the death of her mother Ruby C. Taft on March 15, 2012.
in Community Births & Baptisms
We offer our prayers and sympathy to Marilyn Klotz and Carl Johnson, and Nancy Klotz and John Bowen on the death of Marilyn and Nancy’s mother Florence Klotz on April 8, 2012.
May the blessings of God’s love go with you in your new covenant. Lily Faith Carr daughter of Lori and Ken Carr, baptized on May 6, 2012.
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Jayce Ryan McKain son of Carrie and Joseph McKain, baptized on May 6, 2012.
the last word 1 by Michele Cooley 2
One Sunday at the DCC Today is Mother’s Day and we are serving a delicious meal of ham, sweet potatoes, spring salad, pea salad, homemade peach and strawberry pies thanks to our cooks James Dent and Jeanette Taylor. We have food enough for 120 people. Many of our volunteers, spear headed by team leader Deb McLean, are moms who are sacrificing time with their children to volunteer for our guests. Some of our guests have not been in contact with their families for years. We are their family. There is a din in the Dining Center, as conversations of our guests fill the room. One by one guests stop by my office. Jim stops by to say hello. Jim has been coming to the Dining Center since last August. “Judy, the pastor of Calvary St. Andrews, informed me about the services here last summer. I was shocked. The food is always very good and the service is always very good. Of all of the places that I have gone to in the city there is no better meal. and I mean that whole heartedly. I am serious as a heart attack! The plates here would top $20.00 or more. Every one gets a fair portion: complete meal, salad coffee, where else can
start giving and it starts coming. Keep on living and keep on giving. I love this place. If I had a boatload of money I would donate more. I would sincerely give from the heart if I could. “
you go? Seriously, I was shocked that Asbury First offered up all of the services and they go out of their way to help someone in need. I don’t just feel it, it is the truth. Everyone is kind and courteous in so many ways. Everybody who volunteers here has it in their heart. It is part of who they are. They want to make it a good experience, and Hershel Patterson really works hard in the dining room area to make it nice and keep order.”
Tim enters my office. He wants to reconnect with his father. “I am ready for rehab and want to stay in Hornell now. Can I use your phone?” We dial and it does not go well. Tim will move to Hornell but will stay in the streets. His father was diagnosed with a heart condition and cannot take the stress Tim would bring. “I will be homeless but I will go to rehab.” We will discuss this again on Tuesday. For now, he leaves rather forlornly. He does have an apartment in Rochester but is not happy.
Curtis enters my office. He is about to start a new job and wants to keep in touch and let me know how he is doing. I give him one of our business cards. He will be going out of town for several weeks and this is a great opportunity. “The main thing I can say about the Dining Center is the networking opportunities to look for gainful employment.There are a lot of us in my situation, and the whole social entity of the place is wonderful. I am a massive socializer and it makes me feel good. It is a valuable place to interact and is an amazing safe haven for your sobriety. If someone has the urge to use (drugs) they could have the choice to come here to a positive place. I am coming from the heart. I have had job opportunities and I like to help empty the Foodlink truck. The availability of additional resources such as help with rent is apreciated. I had the opportunity to give back when I could because when you give you receive. You
Wayne stops by. His job with the Department of Transportation is great and he has been there for eight weeks now. He loves it. He would like the hat that I have put aside for him. Eugene, one of our volunteers, has made it about three months ago and Wayne now has money to purchase the colorful knit cap that will come in handy next winter. He leaves my office happy with his new hat. Douglas has just been hit by a car and needs bus passes for his physical therapy. His foot is in a special boot and is getting better. he says. He leaves with his bus
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passes on a full stomach. Aaron from the bike ministry stops in to report the status of his new apartment. After many months of homelessnes, I helped him secure it a couple of weeks ago and he is all settled in now. This was a collaborative effort. He has no furniture but that will come. We are working on that. Pastor Susan Shafer helped with a $100 deposit. And the Rochester Women’s Charitable Foundation assisted with $200.00 He is now helping the elderly couple that lives above him (his new neighbors) with their three dogs. We are going to try to find supplies for the couple. Aaron is going to his group appointments and will soon have his driver’s license. Things are looking up. There are many more visitors to my office too numerous to mention, with a wide variety of challenges. It has been another rewarding day at the Asbury First Dining and Caring Center. Hershel is the last to go. I thank him for his help. “It’s not help, its enjoyment.” he replies. We leave with love and the promise of fellowship that we will do it all again on Tuesday. There will be some new faces and many familiar ones. We will come together with faith in God and the optimism that this world is a wonderful place and we are doing our best to make it a little better.
PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested
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Save the Date! Join us at the Asbury First Annual
Ice Cream Social
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with
New Horizons Band Wednesday, June 20 7:00 p.m.
Listen to the New Horizons Band while enjoying lemonade and an ice cream sundae. Concert is free; nominal charge for refreshments. Some chairs provided. In case of rain, we’ll move to the Gathering Center.
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