| HUFF'S CHURCH CHATTER |
FEBRUARY 2012
MISSION STATEMENT
We, the members of Huff's Union Church, desiring to
be blessed together with Word and Sacrament and to become
evermore the Body of Christ in our world, do hereby commit
ourselves to a ministry which includes increasingly meaningful
worship, creative Christian Education, intentional witnessing,
dedicated service, and responsible support.
Making Disciples: Inside and Out.
UCC slogan: To Believe is to care; to care is to do.
ELCA slogan: Lutherans love life, live love.
WORDS FROM THE PASTOR
Dear Friends,
Rev. Peter Boullata (Unitarian Universalist) recently wrote a
blog subtitled "it's not about you." He talked about a repairman who
came to fix something at his church, and who said to Peter that the
repairman's son was interested in religion. When he heard where his
father was going to make repairs, he said, "Oh, that's the church
where you can believe anything you like." Peter later said he realized
he felt angry that this is how church seems to some people a place
where anything goes, just because his denomination encourages
freedom of thought in their worship of God.
I'd want to add, for Christians, it's infuriating to come across
the similar attitude that you only need say, just once, that you want
Jesus to come into your life, and it doesn't matter at all whether you
stay connected to Jesus, live like Jesus calls you to do, or be a part of
any community that tries to faithfully challenge others to live Jesus'
message. Paul the apostle was very clear that being freed from the
law didn't mean one could do whatever one wanted. Martin Luther
was clear, when he explained being saved by grace through faith, that
it didn't mean any behavior whatsoever is OK. Other Protestant
reformers agreed; one is saved by faith, but one's response is trying
to follow Jesus. The biblical book of James tells believers to show
that they mean it when they say the words of faith, by living in a way
that shows they've internalized the words and are living according to
them.
Another Unitarian Universalist pastor, the Rev. Dr. Victoria
Weinstein, inspired by her colleague's blog, described her
understanding of church this way:
Today the church is an outsider institution, as it
should always have been. It exists to question cultural norms,
to help us want the right things and to hunger and thirst for
justice, to make us uncomfortable with the gap between our
professed ideals and our actions. It exists to claim us, to
shake us, to demand of us, and to make us new
people brothers and sisters of one another, lovers of the
world, workers on behalf of the Kingdom of Equals, and the
kind of people that others are so drawn to that they can't help
but ask, "Wow, how did you get trained to be such an
amazing human being?"
"My church is training me," we would respond. "It is
a lot of inner work, a lot of thinking and reflecting and talking
with people about how to be, and it's expensive. I give my
church a lot of my time and my money. But it really is
working a miracle in my life, which feels amazingly freer,
richer, more meaningful, deep and hopeful now than it did
before I devoted myself to religious community and practice.
If you're interested I'd love you to be my guest for a Sunday
service."
How would you explain that, while our congregation encourages
people to develop a personal faith that seeks to explain the faith anew
for each generation, we do believe that being connected to Jesus and
to other Christians is necessary for good faith development? May this
article provoke you to think again about living faith and being in a
community of faith, where we are "to provoke one another to love
and good deeds." (Hebrews 10:24)
In Christian faithfulness, Pastor Kropa
UNION COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS
We are pleased to announce that Andrea Kreisher and
Raymond Lorish were appointed as union council members; they will
be officially elected at the March 4 congregational meeting.
The following people have been elected to office:
Union Council president: Bob Ruch; Vice president: Tess
Woloszanski; secretary: Rachel Welch; treasurer: Robin Diehl.
Lutheran Council. LeRoy Leibensperger, Dennis Miller
(president), Donald Heimbach (vice president) Tess Woloszanski
(secretary) Wendy Weaver (treasurer)
United Church of Christ Council: Kerry Meitzler, Jimmy
Meitzler, Jr. (President), Gary Moll (vice president), Steve Arner
(secretary), Jon Benfield (treasurer)
Rachel Welch will assume duties of financial secretary.
There will be a Joyful Noise (coin) offering on Feb. 5 for
heating our church building.
Living Waters UCC, Philadelphia, received more than the
$15,000 necessary to meet the challenge grant. We eagerly await
more news about the building they seek to purchase.
We have adopted funeral guidelines which outline what
people who are not members need to do to hold a funeral in the
church.
We will continue to have pew communion at both worship
services on Easter. Service times will be 8 and 10:30 a.m., so people
will not be confused about time. The informal brunch will be held
from 9-10:15 a.m. in the chapel. People attending Sunday School
may stop by for refreshments and a bit of socializing before they go
to class.
We will try having our receptions in the chapel, instead of on
the street level of the church building, for ease of clean up, to keep
people in the same place, and to avoid having to clear off and set up
the library table. We will revisit this topic after six months, to see
how it is working. Shirley Fluck is the new chairperson for the
Hospitality Committee. Please contact her (610-367-5058) if you can
help with set up, clean up, or bringing food items for our receptions
(refreshments after worship times)
The wrought iron railing for the front of the chapel and school
house buildings has not yet been cast. We are eagerly awaiting its
arrival and installation.
We are investigating the purchase of signs to identify rooms,
rest rooms, etc. in the church building, and an outside sign that will
detail what our buildings are, and that deliveries should be made to
the office building. Sunday School has voted to pay for indoor signs.
The outdoor sign might be purchased as a gift to memorialize or
honor someone, or, if no one is interested in doing this, will be
purchased from budgeted funds. (See Pastor Kropa if you are
interested in donating money to pay for this sign)
HUFF'S CHURCH SPRING CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
Our annual spring meeting will be held on Sunday, March 4,
after the 10:30 worship service (bad weather date is March 10).
BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES
We are honoring our members who celebrate their 80th
birthday or older and also honoring those members who celebrate
their 50th anniversary or more. Please let us know if we missed
anyone.
BIRTHDAYS
2/7 - Lorraine Moll 2/17 - Robert Taylor
2/21 - Arlene Hill 2/25 - Mabel Weller
2/27 - William Merkel 2/29 - Ethel Boyer
2/29 - Mae Hoffman
ANNIVERSARIES
2/20 - LeRoy & Ruth Leibensperger
ACOLYTE SCHEDULE
2/5 - Serena Watkins, Aidan Schaffer, Haley Gambler & Tilleen Meitzler
Crucifer - Mavrick Hess
2/12 - Nathan Meitzler & Kylene Smeltz
Crucifer - Ty Robinson
2/19 - Brendan Noska & Lydia Seip
Crucifer - Griffin Weaver
Ash Wednesday - 2/22 - Shauna Watkins & Daniel Strauss
Crucifer - Cole Swackhamer
2/26 - Aidan Schaffer & Mahlon Schaffer
Crucifer - Jordan Wilson
NURSERY NEWS
February Schedule
2/5 - Jon & Melissa Benfield & Suzanne Arner
2/12 - Amy & Brionna Hall & Kim & Carlisle Dixon
2/19 - Josh & Shannon Noska
2/26 - Tess Hess, Chyanne Carwell & Melanie Gallina
NOTE: We ask that you please be in the nursery by
10:15 a.m. If there is a problem and you cannot make your
scheduled date, please call the office or Rachel Welch. We need to
have our volunteers in the nursery each Sunday. If an emergency
happens after office hours on the weekend, please contact Rachel
Welch if you cannot get a substitute. Thank you for volunteering.
SPECIAL OFFERING FOR FEBRUARY
The special offering for the month of February is the ELCA
hunger offering. This offering helps people throughout the world
have the basics of life. Offering envelopes are in the pew racks and
literature racks of the church, or simply use a blank envelope, mark
it Lutheran Hunger Fund, and either place filled envelope in the
offering plate or mail it to Huff's Church. Include your name if you
wish to be credited for this gift on your giving statement.
END OF YEAR STATEMENTS
In an effort to cut our costs, the year end statements are in
church. Those that are not picked up will be mailed by January 31st.
THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS
We thank our Thrivent members who directed their Choice
Dollars to Huff's. Our check for January is $200.00.
THANK YOU
Thank you to the generous people in our congregation who
have given faithfully through 2011. Because of you, our offering
envelopes (including the electronic giving deposits) were 110.91% of
anticipated giving! Yes, it helped us to catch up! Of course, like
home, there are always unplanned expenses (such as furnace repair)
but together we can support our congregation's mission, ministry, and
buildings.
Thank you to all who are Thrivent members and who directed
charitable contributions to Huff's Church. We received $5257
through this program in 2011.
Thank you to Claudia Strauss for baking our gluten free
wafers.
SOUPER BOWL OF CARING
As in previous years, on the first Sunday of February, after
both our worship services, our youth will assist us in receiving a
monetary offering, a can of soup, and/or a box of crackers as an
offering for our four agencies which deal with feeding the hungry in
our area: Pennsburg Open Line, Boyertown Multi Service, Friend,
Inc. (Brandywine School District area) and the Allentown Rescue
Mission. We need two youth to volunteer to hold the soup pots after
worship on that Sunday, and, after the money has been counted and
passed along, to take the kettles and wash, dry and return them to the
kitchen in the chapel. Talk to Pastor Kropa to volunteer. Thank you
to Carlisle Dixon and Brionna Hall for volunteering to pick up and
hold the soup pots after the 8 a.m. worship service.
HEALING SERVICE
Both worship services on Sunday, February 12, will focus on
healing. There will be a moment to come forward, if you wish, for
anointing and a special prayer.
LENT
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, which is February 22 this
year. The full Lenten schedule will be publicized in the March
newsletter. Easter will be April 8. The first mid-week worship
service will be held at Huff's Church chapel; meal downstairs at 6
p.m. and worship upstairs at 7 p.m. Something new for this year:
there will be time after the worship service, downstairs in the chapel,
for some coffee, any left over snacks, and talk back about the
Scripture lesson that was preached. We will try the talk back sessions
for two weeks, and if no one is interested, they will be discontinued.
If there is interest, how much fun we will have chatting about the
lessons and getting to know one another better!
LENTEN COIN FOLDER
We will again offer coin folders as a way of fulfilling the
Lenten spiritual practice of generosity. Please pick up a folder from
the table in the Narthex, just outside our Sanctuary so you may begin
to fill them on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22. Please bring filled folders on
Easter Sunday (or the following Sunday). You may also write a
check, if you do not care to save quarters to fill the folder.
SHABBAT WORSHIP SERVICE OPPORTUNITY
Pastor Mike has arranged an opportunity to attend Shabbat
Worship Service at Temple Oheb Shalom in Wyomissing on Friday,
February 24th (full address on sign-up sheet). Pastor Mike is taking
his confirmands from Bethany to this event so he is not available to
drive or "lead" the Huff's contingent, but he would be there to meet
the Huff's group, much as it worked last year with the Islamic Center.
The service is at 7:45 p.m. The service is normally about 60-65
minutes in length. There will be a brief time of fellowship and
refreshments after the service and then Rabbi Michelson will meet
briefly with the group to talk briefly about Judaism and answer any
questions you might have.
Some may ask why should a Christian attend a Jewish
Worship Service? After all we are not Jewish; we believe in Jesus as
the Messiah, our Lord and Savior. What can we possible learn from
something like this?
As Christians we need to remember that Jesus Christ, our
Lord and Savior was born, lived and died a Jew. Most of his
teachings were centered upon Hebrew Scripture (our Old Testament).
Our faith, Christianity, grew out of and remains in many ways
similar. While without a doubt, we have critical theological
differences, we also have many similarities and things in common.
In addition, over the centuries of history there has been much
misunderstanding between the two faiths and a great deal of
persecution by the Christian Church. It is always good to have
dialogue and learn more about each other. So I hope some of you
will take advantage and join us in this opportunity.
I will post a sign up sheet in the church as we did last year.
Please also indicate if you would be willing to drive. If leaving from
Huff's, I would recommend you leave by 7 p.m. at the latest. Adults
and Youth are welcome.
DUAL MEMBERSHIP
Just a reminder that if you are a member of Huff's Union
Church, you are automatically a member in both the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in American and the United Church of Christ unless
you wish to withdraw membership from either denomination. You
may call the office and receive an "opt out" form to fill out, if you
wish to be a member of only one denomination.
WINTER WEATHER
We will try to publicize worship cancellations on channel 69
(this could not happen last time because our reporter lost power) and
also on the web site. You may also call a council member to ask
about whether we are having worship. We will decide before 6 a.m.
on a Sunday morning whether worship will be held. If church is
cancelled, Sunday School is also cancelled.
We need help in shoveling the walks in wintry weather. If
you can help on a Sunday morning, be at church by 6:30 a.m.,
wearing warm clothing and with your snow shovel. Any questions,
call LeRoy Leibensperger. If it is a weekday, please be at church
by 8 a.m. wearing warm clothes and with your snow shovel.
If you have questions, call Dennis Miller.
If it is bad weather, the office may open late, or be closed for
the day. Please leave a message, and we will respond as soon as we
are back at work.
Most weekday activities will be cancelled if weather is bad.
If you are unsure about the weather, please call the person responsible
for the church event, to see if it will be held.
ALL CHURCH RETREAT
Any member or friend of Huff's Church is invited to mark
your calendars for the 2012 All Church Retreat to be held on March
3. Here is what we have planned for your day:
9-10 Worship, Encountering the Scriptures
10-10:15 break
10:15-11:15 Understanding the ELCA and the UCC (roots, approaches, styles)
11:15-noon Committee chairpersons shared in a few sentences 2011
accomplishments and 2012 plans
noon-12:30 Lunch (brown bag; coffee, tea and cold water provided)
12:30-1:30 Brainstorming our future
1:30-1:45 break
1:45-2:00 Worship
2:00-3 Union Council meeting for March
We hope, if you are a committee chairperson, you may come
for the whole day and we ask that you present a summary of what
2011 brought, who your new members are, and what you plan for
2012 at our committee chairpersons time from 11:15-noon. Please
send a brief report if you cannot be present. If you are not a member
of Union Council, your day ends with worship at 2. Union Council's
regularly scheduled March meeting is from 2-3 p.m. at the retreat.
No meeting on March 12.
Please sign up if you plan to attend the retreat, and bring a
sack lunch.
PRESENTATION ON SOUTH AFRICA - SUNDAY MARCH 25
AT 9:15AM IN LOWER LEVEL OF CHURCH
Pam Ulicny, Tom Mitchell's daughter, is a science teacher at
Tri-Valley Jr/Sr High School who was chosen as one of 24 U.S.
educators to tour South Africa between July 24th and August 10th,
2011. This fully funded trip was an educational outreach program
sponsored by Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. Called the Toyota
International Teacher program. TITP South Africa's mission was to
learn first-hand about sustainability and conservation efforts in South
Africa, the country's rich cultural heritage, its current economic and
political issues, and its educational system.
Pam will share pictures and stories of her trip. Children 4th
grade and under will participate in African related activities. Older
children, teens and adults will hear more about issues that still linger
in South Africa's post-apartheid era including the challenges of
poverty, HIV/AIDS, crime, broken families and drugs. Combined,
these issues produce increasing cycles of deprivation, abuse and
poverty.
Pam will also discuss the ways that South African non-profit
organizations are trying to improve the welfare, education and
opportunities for impoverished South African families, working on
a case by case level, one household at a time. An offering will be
received for Educo-Africa, an organization that uses outdoor and
nature related activities to build self esteem and leadership among the
youth of South Africa.
NEW SANCTUARY ITEMS
The new green paraments and liquid wax candles for the
torches and the candelebra were given in loving memory of Bernice
Bauer by her husband Terry, son Steve, and family.
THE LAST SUPPER
Cast members: The final preparations for the 2012 year have been
made. Palm Sunday is April 1 and at 2:30 p.m. we will be at Liberty
Nursing Home, 17th & Liberty St. (Close to the Allentown Hospital).
5:30 p.m. at St. Peter's Church, Macungie and they will be serving
lunch.
Everyone will receive a letter from me in March concerning
all the specifics. Any concern that you might have, call me at 215-
679-2668. Always in Christ, Carl Arner
CONFIRMATION CLASS OF 2010
The Confirmation Class presented statements to Union
Council members explaining why they chose to live out their
baptismal vows at Huff's and what they plan to do to stay connected
to Huff's after Confirmation. As part of their statement, they were
asked to choose a Bible verse. The confirmands have given council
permission to share these statements in the newsletter.
My Confirmation Statement by Mark Ziegenfuse
I have been with Huff's Church since I have been baptized.
I'm a Christian because my whole family has been Christian and
that's what I believe in. It first started with my grandmother and then
my mom and my dad through marriage.
When I am confirmed I plan to help at most of the church
events and since I am going to be a member I plan to be an active
member.
When I went to Sunday School years ago I thought it was a lot
of fun but I didn't really understand everything we talked and sang
about or the little art crafts we made. When I started confirmation I
started understanding everything.
I quote Moses and he says "Thus says the Lord, the God of
Israel, let my people go so they may celebrate a festival time in the
wilderness." I chose this because Moses just wanted his people free
and no slavery, and I hope there will never be slavery again.
THANK YOU NOTES RECEIVED
From Rev. Barry & Carol Spatz,
We wish to thank everyone for your cards and words of
comfort during the recent deaths of my sister-in-law, Cathie
Geisinger, and my mother, Arlene Spatz this past month. Your
thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
From the Lutheran Home at Topton:
Volunteers of Huff's Church,
Many thanks for your generous donation and your spirit of
giving to the Christmas Sharing at the Lutheran Home at Topton.
Sincerely, Lou Wentz, Dir. Of Community Life
From Boyertown Area Multi-Service, Inc.,
Dear Friends,
Thank you so much for your recent $245.00 donation. Please
know how much your generosity and kindness are appreciated.
Sincerely, Dana L. Eichert, Exec. Dir.
From Bethany Children's Home:
Dear Friends,
We thank you for your generous contribution of $95.00.
Every gift to Bethany helps us provide each youth with a greater
sense of self-esteem, self-confidence, trust and security.
Sincerely, Jonathan L Henning, Chief Rel. Officer
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
MITTEN TREE
Our lovely church mitten tree had every branch from top to
the base bedecked with 141 mittens, caps, scarfs, etc. This has been
the largest amount that we've ever had.
Our granddaughter, Hannah, sorted and packaged everything.
We had 2 large boxes which were sent to St. Vincent's Mission in
David, Kentucky.
Many thanks to the children, parents and grandparents of the
church for all the donated items which will keep the children in
Appalachia warm during the winter season.
Our next project for the mission will be our seed tree that will
be in the upper Narthex starting February 26th. Seeds must be to
church by March 18. Serving Christ, Carl Arner
FOOD BANK
Wednesday, January 4th was our coldest day so far this winter
at 9 degrees, however Bob & Sue Stockdale packaged 267 assorted
food and related items and later in the day delivered everything to
Open Line in Pennsburg. The need at all these agencies is increasing
on a daily basis, so thanks to each and everyone that continues to
support this mission of our church. Every donated item stays within
the Upper Perkiomen Valley.
Our donations for January, February and March are given to
Boyertown Multi-Service. Thanks again to Bob & Sue for rendering
their services to the less fortunate.
Serving Christ, Carl Arner
YOUTH AND CHRISTIAN KIDS CLUB
CHRISTIAN KIDS CLUB
CKC will go on hiatus over Lent. CKC will hold its last
meeting prior to Lent on Wednesday, February 15th at 6 p.m. CKC
will resume after Easter on Wednesday, April 11th. There will also be
CKC on Wednesday, February 8th.
Please note the Bowling Trip mentioned under Youth Group
scheduled for March 4th. We are looking to possibly plan a Miniature
Golf outing coupled with ice cream for late April or early May for
CKC and other interested families.
YOUTH GROUP
Attention all Youth and Youth Leaders: There are a number of
activities that are now planned for February & March 2012. We hope
and pray that as many youth as possible will take advantage of some
of these opportunities. Below you will see opportunities for worship,
for service, for fellowship and fun.
Snow Removal of Recycling Bins - Once again it is that time of
year. We need volunteers who can shovel and clear the snow by the
Recycling Bins. Please see the information on the sign up sheet on
the Sunday School bulletin board or contact Pastor Mike for more
information.
Souper Bowl Sunday: Sunday, February 5th: We will need several
youth at both services to collect donations after Church as part of our
Souper Bowl effort. In addition, Pastor Mike is looking to see if
there would be a youth willing to speak at each service about Souper
Bowl Sunday. More information will be posted on the Sunday
School bulletin board. Please contact Pastor Mike for more info at
either 610-698-0311 or at revmike@ptd.net
Shabbat Worship Service at Temple Oheb Shalom - Please see the
article with information about this opportunity on Friday, February
24th.
Youth Sunday Meeting - March 4th from 12:15 to 1 p.m., come on
out for our first meeting to discuss Youth Sunday which will take
place on April 22nd.
Bowling at Emmaus Bowling Center - March 4th. This is designed
not just as a CKC & Youth event, but instead a family event, as
families are encouraged to attend. Leave Huff's at 1 p.m. and bowl
2 games at Emmaus Bowling Center. Cost is $5.90 for 2 games.
Open to all youth grades 3 & older and younger youth if accompanied
by a parent or responsible adult. We will need drivers so please let
Pastor Mike know if you can drive.
Youth Sunday Meeting - March 18th from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. -
Please come on out as we continue to plan for the Youth Sunday
Service on April 22nd.
Community YG Event - March 18th - Please see flyer and
permission slips on the Sunday School bulletin board. This event is
for Youth in grades 7-12 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Fleetwood
Community Center. We will meet at Huff's at 2:30 p.m. and return
approximately at 6:20 p.m. Event includes games and food including
pizza. Youth are invited to bring a drink or snack to share as well as
a game. You need the permission slip hanging on the Sunday School
bulletin board.
Coming/Planned Events:
Youth Sunday, Sunday April 22nd at the 10:30 service.
Conrad Road Clean up (late Spring)
Rescheduled Paint Ball Outing (probably sometime in April
or May)
CONFIRMATION
Confirmation class will be held on Sundays, February 5 (with
mentors, sharing faith journeys) and Feb. 12 at 9:15 a.m., and on
Sunday, February 19 (note date change!!!) directly after 10:30
worship; don't forget to bring a sack lunch and beverage.
CHURCH FAMILY
MEMORIALS
To the Endowment Fund in memory of Harold K. & Mary Y. Mest
James & Kathy Mest Randy & Suzy Mest
To CIF in memory of Ella Keiser
Elvin Keiser, Sr.
To CIF in memory of Noel & Pat Funk
Ray & Dolores Funk
To CIF in memory of Dolores Scrip
Sue Kayhart
To CIF in memory of Herbert H. Brensinger
Marie Bower Bruce & Shirley Cressman
To CIF in memory of Elton S. Brensinger
Craig & Clara Ihle Second Nature H.F.S., LLC
Charles & Cleo Schuler Darrell & Lucina Beck
Marie Bower Joseph Windish
Joe & Connie Szilli Jayne C. Stoudt
Sister, Miriam Kline Minerva & Carl Arner
Charles, Marion & Sandy Miller
To Current Fund in memory of Anna Marcella Gressley
Fern Gressley & Family Mary Szilli
Pearl & Jeffrey Hoffman Melvin & Norma Greiss
Raymond & Linda Lorish Ann Lorish
Marie Bower Eric & Robin Diehl
Marvin & Audrey Diehl Michael Diehl
Dennis & Bea Miller M/M Thomas Shollenberger
Elvin Keiser, Jr. Huff's Church Senior Citizens
Kenneth, Arlan & Eleanor Krock
To CIF in memory of Leroy B. Hoffman
Charles, Marion & Sandy Miller
FUNERALS
Please pray for the family and friends of Herbert H.
Brensinger who died on November 25.
Please pray for the family and friends of Anna Marcella
Gressley who died on December 20.
Please pray for the family and friends of Leroy B. Hoffman
who died on January 2.
BAPTISM
God's blessing on Kylie Giorgianna Windish, daughter of
Craig & Hillarie (Plessner) who was baptized on January 1.
LADIES AID SOCIETY
The next meeting of the Ladies Aid is Wednesday, February
1 at 7:30 p.m. Continue saving your Radcliffe's and Redners tapes
and deposit them in the basket on the Food Bank cabinet or mail them
to the church office.
AREA NEWS
WOMEN'S FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY
The women of New Goshenhoppen UCC cordially invite
Huff's women to a time of worship and fellowship on Saturday,
February 11, 2012 at 9 a.m. The preacher will be Rev. Susan Lynch,
St. John's UCC, Sumneytown. Community choir rehearsal at 8:30
a.m. that morning. Continental breakfast follows. Please let the
church office at New Goshenhoppen know by February 8 if you will
attend. Phone number is 215-679-2041 or email office@newgoshucc.org
In case of inclement weather please call the church office or
Delores Schuler at 610-395-1507 or Bonnie Fisher at 215-234-8483.
DIAKON FAMILY LIFE SERVICES
They are sponsoring the following free six-week grief support
groups in our area: Boyertown, Mondays, March 19 to April 30 from
6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Parish of St. Columbkill in Boyertown (no
session on April 9) or in Mertztown from April 11 to May 16 from
6:30-8:30 p.m. at St. Paul's ELCA. One must register to attend;
please call 610-682-1337 or 1-888-499-2699.
DIAKON FAMILY LIFE SERVICES
There will be a free six week support group "Surviving and
Thriving Through Separation or Divorce" on Monday evenings,
March 19-April 30 (no session on April 9) at Calvary ELCA,
Laureldale. One must register. Call Diakon Family Life Services at
610-682-1337 or 1-888-499-2699 to register.
MISSION STATEMENT
We, the members of Huff's Union Church, desiring to
be blessed together with Word and Sacrament and to become
evermore the Body of Christ in our world, do hereby commit
ourselves to a ministry which includes increasingly meaningful
worship, creative Christian Education, intentional witnessing,
dedicated service, and responsible support.
Making Disciples: Inside and Out.
UCC slogan: To Believe is to care; to care is to do.
ELCA slogan: Lutherans love life, live love.
WORDS FROM THE PASTOR
Dear Friends,
Rev. Peter Boullata (Unitarian Universalist) recently wrote a
blog subtitled "it's not about you." He talked about a repairman who
came to fix something at his church, and who said to Peter that the
repairman's son was interested in religion. When he heard where his
father was going to make repairs, he said, "Oh, that's the church
where you can believe anything you like." Peter later said he realized
he felt angry that this is how church seems to some people a place
where anything goes, just because his denomination encourages
freedom of thought in their worship of God.
I'd want to add, for Christians, it's infuriating to come across
the similar attitude that you only need say, just once, that you want
Jesus to come into your life, and it doesn't matter at all whether you
stay connected to Jesus, live like Jesus calls you to do, or be a part of
any community that tries to faithfully challenge others to live Jesus'
message. Paul the apostle was very clear that being freed from the
law didn't mean one could do whatever one wanted. Martin Luther
was clear, when he explained being saved by grace through faith, that
it didn't mean any behavior whatsoever is OK. Other Protestant
reformers agreed; one is saved by faith, but one's response is trying
to follow Jesus. The biblical book of James tells believers to show
that they mean it when they say the words of faith, by living in a way
that shows they've internalized the words and are living according to
them.
Another Unitarian Universalist pastor, the Rev. Dr. Victoria
Weinstein, inspired by her colleague's blog, described her
understanding of church this way:
Today the church is an outsider institution, as it
should always have been. It exists to question cultural norms,
to help us want the right things and to hunger and thirst for
justice, to make us uncomfortable with the gap between our
professed ideals and our actions. It exists to claim us, to
shake us, to demand of us, and to make us new
people brothers and sisters of one another, lovers of the
world, workers on behalf of the Kingdom of Equals, and the
kind of people that others are so drawn to that they can't help
but ask, "Wow, how did you get trained to be such an
amazing human being?"
"My church is training me," we would respond. "It is
a lot of inner work, a lot of thinking and reflecting and talking
with people about how to be, and it's expensive. I give my
church a lot of my time and my money. But it really is
working a miracle in my life, which feels amazingly freer,
richer, more meaningful, deep and hopeful now than it did
before I devoted myself to religious community and practice.
If you're interested I'd love you to be my guest for a Sunday
service."
How would you explain that, while our congregation encourages
people to develop a personal faith that seeks to explain the faith anew
for each generation, we do believe that being connected to Jesus and
to other Christians is necessary for good faith development? May this
article provoke you to think again about living faith and being in a
community of faith, where we are "to provoke one another to love
and good deeds." (Hebrews 10:24)
In Christian faithfulness, Pastor Kropa
UNION COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS
We are pleased to announce that Andrea Kreisher and
Raymond Lorish were appointed as union council members; they will
be officially elected at the March 4 congregational meeting.
The following people have been elected to office:
Union Council president: Bob Ruch; Vice president: Tess
Woloszanski; secretary: Rachel Welch; treasurer: Robin Diehl.
Lutheran Council. LeRoy Leibensperger, Dennis Miller
(president), Donald Heimbach (vice president) Tess Woloszanski
(secretary) Wendy Weaver (treasurer)
United Church of Christ Council: Kerry Meitzler, Jimmy
Meitzler, Jr. (President), Gary Moll (vice president), Steve Arner
(secretary), Jon Benfield (treasurer)
Rachel Welch will assume duties of financial secretary.
There will be a Joyful Noise (coin) offering on Feb. 5 for
heating our church building.
Living Waters UCC, Philadelphia, received more than the
$15,000 necessary to meet the challenge grant. We eagerly await
more news about the building they seek to purchase.
We have adopted funeral guidelines which outline what
people who are not members need to do to hold a funeral in the
church.
We will continue to have pew communion at both worship
services on Easter. Service times will be 8 and 10:30 a.m., so people
will not be confused about time. The informal brunch will be held
from 9-10:15 a.m. in the chapel. People attending Sunday School
may stop by for refreshments and a bit of socializing before they go
to class.
We will try having our receptions in the chapel, instead of on
the street level of the church building, for ease of clean up, to keep
people in the same place, and to avoid having to clear off and set up
the library table. We will revisit this topic after six months, to see
how it is working. Shirley Fluck is the new chairperson for the
Hospitality Committee. Please contact her (610-367-5058) if you can
help with set up, clean up, or bringing food items for our receptions
(refreshments after worship times)
The wrought iron railing for the front of the chapel and school
house buildings has not yet been cast. We are eagerly awaiting its
arrival and installation.
We are investigating the purchase of signs to identify rooms,
rest rooms, etc. in the church building, and an outside sign that will
detail what our buildings are, and that deliveries should be made to
the office building. Sunday School has voted to pay for indoor signs.
The outdoor sign might be purchased as a gift to memorialize or
honor someone, or, if no one is interested in doing this, will be
purchased from budgeted funds. (See Pastor Kropa if you are
interested in donating money to pay for this sign)
HUFF'S CHURCH SPRING CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
Our annual spring meeting will be held on Sunday, March 4,
after the 10:30 worship service (bad weather date is March 10).
BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES
We are honoring our members who celebrate their 80th
birthday or older and also honoring those members who celebrate
their 50th anniversary or more. Please let us know if we missed
anyone.
BIRTHDAYS
2/7 - Lorraine Moll 2/17 - Robert Taylor
2/21 - Arlene Hill 2/25 - Mabel Weller
2/27 - William Merkel 2/29 - Ethel Boyer
2/29 - Mae Hoffman
ANNIVERSARIES
2/20 - LeRoy & Ruth Leibensperger
ACOLYTE SCHEDULE
2/5 - Serena Watkins, Aidan Schaffer, Haley Gambler & Tilleen Meitzler
Crucifer - Mavrick Hess
2/12 - Nathan Meitzler & Kylene Smeltz
Crucifer - Ty Robinson
2/19 - Brendan Noska & Lydia Seip
Crucifer - Griffin Weaver
Ash Wednesday - 2/22 - Shauna Watkins & Daniel Strauss
Crucifer - Cole Swackhamer
2/26 - Aidan Schaffer & Mahlon Schaffer
Crucifer - Jordan Wilson
NURSERY NEWS
February Schedule
2/5 - Jon & Melissa Benfield & Suzanne Arner
2/12 - Amy & Brionna Hall & Kim & Carlisle Dixon
2/19 - Josh & Shannon Noska
2/26 - Tess Hess, Chyanne Carwell & Melanie Gallina
NOTE: We ask that you please be in the nursery by
10:15 a.m. If there is a problem and you cannot make your
scheduled date, please call the office or Rachel Welch. We need to
have our volunteers in the nursery each Sunday. If an emergency
happens after office hours on the weekend, please contact Rachel
Welch if you cannot get a substitute. Thank you for volunteering.
SPECIAL OFFERING FOR FEBRUARY
The special offering for the month of February is the ELCA
hunger offering. This offering helps people throughout the world
have the basics of life. Offering envelopes are in the pew racks and
literature racks of the church, or simply use a blank envelope, mark
it Lutheran Hunger Fund, and either place filled envelope in the
offering plate or mail it to Huff's Church. Include your name if you
wish to be credited for this gift on your giving statement.
END OF YEAR STATEMENTS
In an effort to cut our costs, the year end statements are in
church. Those that are not picked up will be mailed by January 31st.
THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS
We thank our Thrivent members who directed their Choice
Dollars to Huff's. Our check for January is $200.00.
THANK YOU
Thank you to the generous people in our congregation who
have given faithfully through 2011. Because of you, our offering
envelopes (including the electronic giving deposits) were 110.91% of
anticipated giving! Yes, it helped us to catch up! Of course, like
home, there are always unplanned expenses (such as furnace repair)
but together we can support our congregation's mission, ministry, and
buildings.
Thank you to all who are Thrivent members and who directed
charitable contributions to Huff's Church. We received $5257
through this program in 2011.
Thank you to Claudia Strauss for baking our gluten free
wafers.
SOUPER BOWL OF CARING
As in previous years, on the first Sunday of February, after
both our worship services, our youth will assist us in receiving a
monetary offering, a can of soup, and/or a box of crackers as an
offering for our four agencies which deal with feeding the hungry in
our area: Pennsburg Open Line, Boyertown Multi Service, Friend,
Inc. (Brandywine School District area) and the Allentown Rescue
Mission. We need two youth to volunteer to hold the soup pots after
worship on that Sunday, and, after the money has been counted and
passed along, to take the kettles and wash, dry and return them to the
kitchen in the chapel. Talk to Pastor Kropa to volunteer. Thank you
to Carlisle Dixon and Brionna Hall for volunteering to pick up and
hold the soup pots after the 8 a.m. worship service.
HEALING SERVICE
Both worship services on Sunday, February 12, will focus on
healing. There will be a moment to come forward, if you wish, for
anointing and a special prayer.
LENT
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, which is February 22 this
year. The full Lenten schedule will be publicized in the March
newsletter. Easter will be April 8. The first mid-week worship
service will be held at Huff's Church chapel; meal downstairs at 6
p.m. and worship upstairs at 7 p.m. Something new for this year:
there will be time after the worship service, downstairs in the chapel,
for some coffee, any left over snacks, and talk back about the
Scripture lesson that was preached. We will try the talk back sessions
for two weeks, and if no one is interested, they will be discontinued.
If there is interest, how much fun we will have chatting about the
lessons and getting to know one another better!
LENTEN COIN FOLDER
We will again offer coin folders as a way of fulfilling the
Lenten spiritual practice of generosity. Please pick up a folder from
the table in the Narthex, just outside our Sanctuary so you may begin
to fill them on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22. Please bring filled folders on
Easter Sunday (or the following Sunday). You may also write a
check, if you do not care to save quarters to fill the folder.
SHABBAT WORSHIP SERVICE OPPORTUNITY
Pastor Mike has arranged an opportunity to attend Shabbat
Worship Service at Temple Oheb Shalom in Wyomissing on Friday,
February 24th (full address on sign-up sheet). Pastor Mike is taking
his confirmands from Bethany to this event so he is not available to
drive or "lead" the Huff's contingent, but he would be there to meet
the Huff's group, much as it worked last year with the Islamic Center.
The service is at 7:45 p.m. The service is normally about 60-65
minutes in length. There will be a brief time of fellowship and
refreshments after the service and then Rabbi Michelson will meet
briefly with the group to talk briefly about Judaism and answer any
questions you might have.
Some may ask why should a Christian attend a Jewish
Worship Service? After all we are not Jewish; we believe in Jesus as
the Messiah, our Lord and Savior. What can we possible learn from
something like this?
As Christians we need to remember that Jesus Christ, our
Lord and Savior was born, lived and died a Jew. Most of his
teachings were centered upon Hebrew Scripture (our Old Testament).
Our faith, Christianity, grew out of and remains in many ways
similar. While without a doubt, we have critical theological
differences, we also have many similarities and things in common.
In addition, over the centuries of history there has been much
misunderstanding between the two faiths and a great deal of
persecution by the Christian Church. It is always good to have
dialogue and learn more about each other. So I hope some of you
will take advantage and join us in this opportunity.
I will post a sign up sheet in the church as we did last year.
Please also indicate if you would be willing to drive. If leaving from
Huff's, I would recommend you leave by 7 p.m. at the latest. Adults
and Youth are welcome.
DUAL MEMBERSHIP
Just a reminder that if you are a member of Huff's Union
Church, you are automatically a member in both the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in American and the United Church of Christ unless
you wish to withdraw membership from either denomination. You
may call the office and receive an "opt out" form to fill out, if you
wish to be a member of only one denomination.
WINTER WEATHER
We will try to publicize worship cancellations on channel 69
(this could not happen last time because our reporter lost power) and
also on the web site. You may also call a council member to ask
about whether we are having worship. We will decide before 6 a.m.
on a Sunday morning whether worship will be held. If church is
cancelled, Sunday School is also cancelled.
We need help in shoveling the walks in wintry weather. If
you can help on a Sunday morning, be at church by 6:30 a.m.,
wearing warm clothing and with your snow shovel. Any questions,
call LeRoy Leibensperger. If it is a weekday, please be at church
by 8 a.m. wearing warm clothes and with your snow shovel.
If you have questions, call Dennis Miller.
If it is bad weather, the office may open late, or be closed for
the day. Please leave a message, and we will respond as soon as we
are back at work.
Most weekday activities will be cancelled if weather is bad.
If you are unsure about the weather, please call the person responsible
for the church event, to see if it will be held.
ALL CHURCH RETREAT
Any member or friend of Huff's Church is invited to mark
your calendars for the 2012 All Church Retreat to be held on March
3. Here is what we have planned for your day:
9-10 Worship, Encountering the Scriptures
10-10:15 break
10:15-11:15 Understanding the ELCA and the UCC (roots, approaches, styles)
11:15-noon Committee chairpersons shared in a few sentences 2011
accomplishments and 2012 plans
noon-12:30 Lunch (brown bag; coffee, tea and cold water provided)
12:30-1:30 Brainstorming our future
1:30-1:45 break
1:45-2:00 Worship
2:00-3 Union Council meeting for March
We hope, if you are a committee chairperson, you may come
for the whole day and we ask that you present a summary of what
2011 brought, who your new members are, and what you plan for
2012 at our committee chairpersons time from 11:15-noon. Please
send a brief report if you cannot be present. If you are not a member
of Union Council, your day ends with worship at 2. Union Council's
regularly scheduled March meeting is from 2-3 p.m. at the retreat.
No meeting on March 12.
Please sign up if you plan to attend the retreat, and bring a
sack lunch.
PRESENTATION ON SOUTH AFRICA - SUNDAY MARCH 25
AT 9:15AM IN LOWER LEVEL OF CHURCH
Pam Ulicny, Tom Mitchell's daughter, is a science teacher at
Tri-Valley Jr/Sr High School who was chosen as one of 24 U.S.
educators to tour South Africa between July 24th and August 10th,
2011. This fully funded trip was an educational outreach program
sponsored by Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. Called the Toyota
International Teacher program. TITP South Africa's mission was to
learn first-hand about sustainability and conservation efforts in South
Africa, the country's rich cultural heritage, its current economic and
political issues, and its educational system.
Pam will share pictures and stories of her trip. Children 4th
grade and under will participate in African related activities. Older
children, teens and adults will hear more about issues that still linger
in South Africa's post-apartheid era including the challenges of
poverty, HIV/AIDS, crime, broken families and drugs. Combined,
these issues produce increasing cycles of deprivation, abuse and
poverty.
Pam will also discuss the ways that South African non-profit
organizations are trying to improve the welfare, education and
opportunities for impoverished South African families, working on
a case by case level, one household at a time. An offering will be
received for Educo-Africa, an organization that uses outdoor and
nature related activities to build self esteem and leadership among the
youth of South Africa.
NEW SANCTUARY ITEMS
The new green paraments and liquid wax candles for the
torches and the candelebra were given in loving memory of Bernice
Bauer by her husband Terry, son Steve, and family.
THE LAST SUPPER
Cast members: The final preparations for the 2012 year have been
made. Palm Sunday is April 1 and at 2:30 p.m. we will be at Liberty
Nursing Home, 17th & Liberty St. (Close to the Allentown Hospital).
5:30 p.m. at St. Peter's Church, Macungie and they will be serving
lunch.
Everyone will receive a letter from me in March concerning
all the specifics. Any concern that you might have, call me at 215-
679-2668. Always in Christ, Carl Arner
CONFIRMATION CLASS OF 2010
The Confirmation Class presented statements to Union
Council members explaining why they chose to live out their
baptismal vows at Huff's and what they plan to do to stay connected
to Huff's after Confirmation. As part of their statement, they were
asked to choose a Bible verse. The confirmands have given council
permission to share these statements in the newsletter.
My Confirmation Statement by Mark Ziegenfuse
I have been with Huff's Church since I have been baptized.
I'm a Christian because my whole family has been Christian and
that's what I believe in. It first started with my grandmother and then
my mom and my dad through marriage.
When I am confirmed I plan to help at most of the church
events and since I am going to be a member I plan to be an active
member.
When I went to Sunday School years ago I thought it was a lot
of fun but I didn't really understand everything we talked and sang
about or the little art crafts we made. When I started confirmation I
started understanding everything.
I quote Moses and he says "Thus says the Lord, the God of
Israel, let my people go so they may celebrate a festival time in the
wilderness." I chose this because Moses just wanted his people free
and no slavery, and I hope there will never be slavery again.
THANK YOU NOTES RECEIVED
From Rev. Barry & Carol Spatz,
We wish to thank everyone for your cards and words of
comfort during the recent deaths of my sister-in-law, Cathie
Geisinger, and my mother, Arlene Spatz this past month. Your
thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
From the Lutheran Home at Topton:
Volunteers of Huff's Church,
Many thanks for your generous donation and your spirit of
giving to the Christmas Sharing at the Lutheran Home at Topton.
Sincerely, Lou Wentz, Dir. Of Community Life
From Boyertown Area Multi-Service, Inc.,
Dear Friends,
Thank you so much for your recent $245.00 donation. Please
know how much your generosity and kindness are appreciated.
Sincerely, Dana L. Eichert, Exec. Dir.
From Bethany Children's Home:
Dear Friends,
We thank you for your generous contribution of $95.00.
Every gift to Bethany helps us provide each youth with a greater
sense of self-esteem, self-confidence, trust and security.
Sincerely, Jonathan L Henning, Chief Rel. Officer
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
MITTEN TREE
Our lovely church mitten tree had every branch from top to
the base bedecked with 141 mittens, caps, scarfs, etc. This has been
the largest amount that we've ever had.
Our granddaughter, Hannah, sorted and packaged everything.
We had 2 large boxes which were sent to St. Vincent's Mission in
David, Kentucky.
Many thanks to the children, parents and grandparents of the
church for all the donated items which will keep the children in
Appalachia warm during the winter season.
Our next project for the mission will be our seed tree that will
be in the upper Narthex starting February 26th. Seeds must be to
church by March 18. Serving Christ, Carl Arner
FOOD BANK
Wednesday, January 4th was our coldest day so far this winter
at 9 degrees, however Bob & Sue Stockdale packaged 267 assorted
food and related items and later in the day delivered everything to
Open Line in Pennsburg. The need at all these agencies is increasing
on a daily basis, so thanks to each and everyone that continues to
support this mission of our church. Every donated item stays within
the Upper Perkiomen Valley.
Our donations for January, February and March are given to
Boyertown Multi-Service. Thanks again to Bob & Sue for rendering
their services to the less fortunate.
Serving Christ, Carl Arner
YOUTH AND CHRISTIAN KIDS CLUB
CHRISTIAN KIDS CLUB
CKC will go on hiatus over Lent. CKC will hold its last
meeting prior to Lent on Wednesday, February 15th at 6 p.m. CKC
will resume after Easter on Wednesday, April 11th. There will also be
CKC on Wednesday, February 8th.
Please note the Bowling Trip mentioned under Youth Group
scheduled for March 4th. We are looking to possibly plan a Miniature
Golf outing coupled with ice cream for late April or early May for
CKC and other interested families.
YOUTH GROUP
Attention all Youth and Youth Leaders: There are a number of
activities that are now planned for February & March 2012. We hope
and pray that as many youth as possible will take advantage of some
of these opportunities. Below you will see opportunities for worship,
for service, for fellowship and fun.
Snow Removal of Recycling Bins - Once again it is that time of
year. We need volunteers who can shovel and clear the snow by the
Recycling Bins. Please see the information on the sign up sheet on
the Sunday School bulletin board or contact Pastor Mike for more
information.
Souper Bowl Sunday: Sunday, February 5th: We will need several
youth at both services to collect donations after Church as part of our
Souper Bowl effort. In addition, Pastor Mike is looking to see if
there would be a youth willing to speak at each service about Souper
Bowl Sunday. More information will be posted on the Sunday
School bulletin board. Please contact Pastor Mike for more info at
either 610-698-0311 or at revmike@ptd.net
Shabbat Worship Service at Temple Oheb Shalom - Please see the
article with information about this opportunity on Friday, February
24th.
Youth Sunday Meeting - March 4th from 12:15 to 1 p.m., come on
out for our first meeting to discuss Youth Sunday which will take
place on April 22nd.
Bowling at Emmaus Bowling Center - March 4th. This is designed
not just as a CKC & Youth event, but instead a family event, as
families are encouraged to attend. Leave Huff's at 1 p.m. and bowl
2 games at Emmaus Bowling Center. Cost is $5.90 for 2 games.
Open to all youth grades 3 & older and younger youth if accompanied
by a parent or responsible adult. We will need drivers so please let
Pastor Mike know if you can drive.
Youth Sunday Meeting - March 18th from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. -
Please come on out as we continue to plan for the Youth Sunday
Service on April 22nd.
Community YG Event - March 18th - Please see flyer and
permission slips on the Sunday School bulletin board. This event is
for Youth in grades 7-12 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Fleetwood
Community Center. We will meet at Huff's at 2:30 p.m. and return
approximately at 6:20 p.m. Event includes games and food including
pizza. Youth are invited to bring a drink or snack to share as well as
a game. You need the permission slip hanging on the Sunday School
bulletin board.
Coming/Planned Events:
Youth Sunday, Sunday April 22nd at the 10:30 service.
Conrad Road Clean up (late Spring)
Rescheduled Paint Ball Outing (probably sometime in April
or May)
CONFIRMATION
Confirmation class will be held on Sundays, February 5 (with
mentors, sharing faith journeys) and Feb. 12 at 9:15 a.m., and on
Sunday, February 19 (note date change!!!) directly after 10:30
worship; don't forget to bring a sack lunch and beverage.
CHURCH FAMILY
MEMORIALS
To the Endowment Fund in memory of Harold K. & Mary Y. Mest
James & Kathy Mest Randy & Suzy Mest
To CIF in memory of Ella Keiser
Elvin Keiser, Sr.
To CIF in memory of Noel & Pat Funk
Ray & Dolores Funk
To CIF in memory of Dolores Scrip
Sue Kayhart
To CIF in memory of Herbert H. Brensinger
Marie Bower Bruce & Shirley Cressman
To CIF in memory of Elton S. Brensinger
Craig & Clara Ihle Second Nature H.F.S., LLC
Charles & Cleo Schuler Darrell & Lucina Beck
Marie Bower Joseph Windish
Joe & Connie Szilli Jayne C. Stoudt
Sister, Miriam Kline Minerva & Carl Arner
Charles, Marion & Sandy Miller
To Current Fund in memory of Anna Marcella Gressley
Fern Gressley & Family Mary Szilli
Pearl & Jeffrey Hoffman Melvin & Norma Greiss
Raymond & Linda Lorish Ann Lorish
Marie Bower Eric & Robin Diehl
Marvin & Audrey Diehl Michael Diehl
Dennis & Bea Miller M/M Thomas Shollenberger
Elvin Keiser, Jr. Huff's Church Senior Citizens
Kenneth, Arlan & Eleanor Krock
To CIF in memory of Leroy B. Hoffman
Charles, Marion & Sandy Miller
FUNERALS
Please pray for the family and friends of Herbert H.
Brensinger who died on November 25.
Please pray for the family and friends of Anna Marcella
Gressley who died on December 20.
Please pray for the family and friends of Leroy B. Hoffman
who died on January 2.
BAPTISM
God's blessing on Kylie Giorgianna Windish, daughter of
Craig & Hillarie (Plessner) who was baptized on January 1.
LADIES AID SOCIETY
The next meeting of the Ladies Aid is Wednesday, February
1 at 7:30 p.m. Continue saving your Radcliffe's and Redners tapes
and deposit them in the basket on the Food Bank cabinet or mail them
to the church office.
AREA NEWS
WOMEN'S FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY
The women of New Goshenhoppen UCC cordially invite
Huff's women to a time of worship and fellowship on Saturday,
February 11, 2012 at 9 a.m. The preacher will be Rev. Susan Lynch,
St. John's UCC, Sumneytown. Community choir rehearsal at 8:30
a.m. that morning. Continental breakfast follows. Please let the
church office at New Goshenhoppen know by February 8 if you will
attend. Phone number is 215-679-2041 or email office@newgoshucc.org
In case of inclement weather please call the church office or
Delores Schuler at 610-395-1507 or Bonnie Fisher at 215-234-8483.
DIAKON FAMILY LIFE SERVICES
They are sponsoring the following free six-week grief support
groups in our area: Boyertown, Mondays, March 19 to April 30 from
6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Parish of St. Columbkill in Boyertown (no
session on April 9) or in Mertztown from April 11 to May 16 from
6:30-8:30 p.m. at St. Paul's ELCA. One must register to attend;
please call 610-682-1337 or 1-888-499-2699.
DIAKON FAMILY LIFE SERVICES
There will be a free six week support group "Surviving and
Thriving Through Separation or Divorce" on Monday evenings,
March 19-April 30 (no session on April 9) at Calvary ELCA,
Laureldale. One must register. Call Diakon Family Life Services at
610-682-1337 or 1-888-499-2699 to register.