|
The Chronicle
is
Published by
First Presbyterian Church 49 South Portage Street Westfield, New York
2017 |
Church Office Hours 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday
Office: (716) 326-2643 Fax: (716) 793-6019
Website:
E-Mail:
Pastor Ronald L. Sumption ronaldsumption@live.com (319) 432-8650 Administrative Assistant Polly M. Knopp
Custodian Melanie McCutcheon
Deacon of the Month November 2017 Nicole Corbett |
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Thanksgiving
~ Lizelia Augusta Jenkins Mooret ~
Let us give thanks to God above,
Thanks for expressions of His love,
Seen in the book of nature, grand
Taught by His love on every hand.
Let us be thankful in our hearts,
Thankful for all the truth imparts,
For the religion of our Lord,
All that is taught us in His word.
Let us be thankful for a land,
That will for such religion stand;
One that protects it by the law,
One that before it stands in awe.
Thankful for all things let us be,
Though there be woes and misery;
Lessons they bring us for our good -
Later 'twill all be understood.
Thankful for peace o'er land and sea,
Thankful for signs of liberty,
Thankful for homes, for life and health,
Pleasure and plenty, fame and wealth.
Thankful for friends and loved ones, too,
Thankful for all things, good and true,
Thankful for harvest in the fall,
Thankful to Him who gave it all.
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"Give liberally and be ungrudging when you do so, for on this account the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake." Deuteronomy 15: 10 (NRSV)
Dear Saints and Friends of the First Presbyterian Church of Westfield,
Did you know generosity is the most-talked-about value in the entire Bible?
The word faith or its variations is used 246 times in the Bible. The word hope, which is another important word in our Christian life, is used 185 times. The word love, which is obviously an important word to those of us who are Christian believers, is used 733 times.
But the word give or giving is used 2,285 times in the Bible. The Bible talks more about giving than about any of those other issues. Why? Because giving is the expression of faith, hope, and love.
God wants us to learn to be generous. Deuteronomy 15: 10 says, "Give liberally and be ungrudging when you do so, for on this account the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake." (NRSV)
That's a pretty all-encompassing promise. God says, "Put Me first, and I will bless all and everything that you do."
We Christians are called to share our time, talent and treasure with the ministry of our church, which is the body of Christ. When a person doesn't give generously to the ministry of the church -- when they withhold their time, talent or treasure -- it means they lack confidence in God. That's sad.
It's amazing that there are some people who will trust God for their salvation, their eternity in heaven, but they don't have enough faith to trust God for the use of their time and energy, their abilities and experience, their resources and finances. What's the logic in that?
If I can trust God for my eternal destiny, don't you think I can trust God with my career moves, my finances, and my giving? It's the same God. Withholding or limiting your contributions to the ministry of the church means you miss out on so many blessings.
November is the month when you are asked to make your Stewardship Commitment Pledge for next year. I would challenge you: Make a generous pledge to the church. Pledge to give more of your time, talent and treasure. Don't rob yourself of one more minute of blessing.
It feels good to give. You know that if you're a giver.
There are givers, and there are takers. You're going to be one or the other. The takers are the unhappy people in life. The givers are the happy people. Jesus said it like this: "There is more happiness in giving than in receiving."
Why do we give? We give because giving blesses God and those whom He loves. We give because giving blesses us in return. But more importantly, we give because of what Jesus did for us.
Yours in Christ's love and service,
Rev. Ron Sumption
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NEEDED! Elders, deacon, at-large committee
Notice NEEDED, the word of the day. Needed has more than one plea, and that’s what is necessary at Westfield's
First Presbyterian Church.
Following are a few considered necessary for our
house of worship:
ELDERS– two (2) are needed for a three-year term. The Session meets the
3rd Monday of each month.
DEACON– one (1) Deacon needed for one year.
“MEMBERS AT-LARGE” – four (4) needed for Nominating Committee for a one (1) year term.
If you’re one who has served as an elder previously, perhaps you’re ready to return to serve again. Maybe you’ve never experienced being an elder. If not, you will be greeted gratefully. As for deacons and Nominating Committee members, they, too, are needed in order to serve our place of worship.
Do not hesitate! Contact Polly – or contact Jane McMaster by phone - 792-4696
- as soon as you get to the end of this NEEDED note.
May God bless and guide you every day.
Nominating Committee
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For All the Saints
First Presbyterian Church
Sunday, November 5, 2017
Remembering members and friends of our congregation who have died since
All Saints Day last year:
Janet Odell
Kathryn "Dee" Jensen
Donald A. Fritz
Lois Poletto Lindstrom
Beth S. Reynolds
“For all the saints, who from their labors rest,
Who Thee by faith before the world confessed,
Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest.
Alleluia! Alleluia!”
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REMINDER!! On Sunday, November 5, Daylight Saving Time ends. Remember to turn your clocks back on Saturday night before retiring. We don't want you to be too early for church!
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Mission/Outreach News...
Peace & Global Witness Offering
~ Proclaim the Peace of Christ ~
"So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near." Ephesians 2: 14 - 17
On World Communion Sunday, October 1, our congregation gave $120.00 to the Peace & Global Witness Offering ~ the third Special Offering of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Thank you for your donations! Twenty-five percent of donations remain with our church. The Mission Committee will determine how best to use our gifts to support local peacemaking initiatives or community-based ministries. The other 75% will be forwarded to the Presbytery of WNY where 25% will be used to support Presbytery and Synod peacemaking efforts and 50% will be forwarded to the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program of the Presbyterian Mission Agency so that it can continue to provide assistance and resources for congregations and other bodies of the PC (USA).
Operation Christmas Child
A project of Samaritans Purse
~ The Power of a Simple Gift ~
In 2016 more than 11 million shoebox gifts were collected!. That means Samaritan's Purse has delivered more than
135 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than
150 countries and territories since 1993.
Each and every shoebox gift, given in Jesus' name, opens doors for boys and girls and their families to hear the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ. As a result, churches are growing and communities are transformed.
We invite any member and/or friend to fill a shoebox. A pamphlet with information on how to pack your shoebox and suggested gifts is available at the entrances to the sanctuary or in the church office. Please have your shoeboxes returned on or before November 19 for a special dedication during the
worship service.
ANGEL TREE
Plans are underway for the annual community mission project "Angel Tree" sponsored by Westfield Union Relief -
a ladies aid society.
The Angels will be available for pick-up in early November. The date will be placed in the bulletin or you can call the church office.
Guidelines for your "Angel" gift are: Have your angel's name and number taped securely to your gift(s); Union Relief requests that all gifts be UNWRAPPED; gift boxes or bags are acceptable.
A dedication of your gifts will be held during morning worship.
Westfield Community Kitchen
For the month of November, we will be collecting some much-needed items for the Community Kitchen. The "Wish List" is as follows: small dessert plates, napkins, paper towels, individual sugar packets, salad dressings, decaf and regular coffee, dry soup mixes, Jello, puddings, powdered creamer, canned carrots, chicken broth, biscuit mix, cake mixes, aluminum foil (wide), Sweet n' Low and bleach. The Community Kitchen greatly appreciates our help!
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Be a staff member for your church
As you sit in your favorite pew to listen to the Sunday church service and join in the congregation prayers or sing various hymns each week, do you say to yourself “Hmm, wonder if I could be up there announcing up-coming events and reading scriptures?”
Or, would you just like to be a “fill-in” when a regular liturgist must call for a helper on short notice? And, imagine sitting on the same place as the pastor sits plus not far from those lovely voices coming from behind you. That’s a great way to get to know those who bring “church” to us.
Well, you’re in luck! You’ve just made it to a special month when liturgists usually are assigned to their liturgy of choice. You are being asked on which Sundays and months you prefer being scheduled. And, be excited as our “regulars” seeing your name on a few lists are delighted to welcome new LITURGISTS.
By the way, our regular liturgists in 2017 are/were Anneliza Barney, Mike Cluchey, John Daily, Marilynne Northrop, Mike Ricketts and Steve Stratton. You might call them regulars, but they will be glad to turn over a few Sundays for you.
As for many other happenings, our liturgy sign-ups also have a final enlist date. Should you wish to be one of our liturgists, you must sign up by November 17, 2017 by contacting me.
Blessings to all –
A
Ann E. Weidman
753-2414
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Dish-to-Pass Luncheon
November 12, 2017
The Fellowship Committee will host a Dish-to-Pass luncheon following worship on Sunday, November 12. Everyone is asked to bring a dish to pass and table service. The committee will provide a beverage. Your dish can be delivered to the kitchen prior the worship service.
In addition to your dish-to-pass please bring an item(s) for the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes.
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Looking for a Unique Christmas gift?
The Church has available commemorative glass tumblers, goblets and ornaments. The glassware has an etched picture of the church and the ornament is a reproduction of the church building on porcelain. The cost for each is as follows: Ornament - $10.00, Glass Tumbler - $5.00 and Goblet - $6.00. To acquire a piece of history, please call the church office at (716) 326-2643. If you are not local - arrangements can be made to have item(s) mailed. Thank you for your support!
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SUNDAY FRESH FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS
In 2014 in an effort to have fresh flowers in Church every Sunday, we changed the procedure. The Church Sanctuary is a living place, a place to experience all that God has created. Therefore, artificial arrangements were discontinued. Another benefit of having fresh flowers available every week, the Deacon's deliver the arrangement to our shut-ins, those who are ill or those hospitalized.
The fresh flower arrangements are given by members and friends of the congregation throughout the year. Some are in memory of loved ones, or in honor or appreciation for a special person. The only dates not available are December 17 and 24, which are reserved for poinsettias. Our Flower Calendar is in NEED of donors.
Flower donations are made directly to the church. A donation of $25.00 will cover the cost for one week. If you request "special" flowers, i.e. roses, you will be notified of the additional cost so a donation can be made to cover the overage.
Please call the church office/326-2643 or e-mail at onestpresby@fairpoint.net to reserve a special date.
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The Hospital Auxiliary is hosting a Ham Harvest Dinner on Tuesday, November 7 (Election Day), beginning at 5 p.m. here at First Presbyterian Church. Community and members of the church are invited to attend!
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2017 Advent Devotional Writing Project
This year our Advent Devotion booklet will be written by members and friends of our congregation. The devotions will be available in printed booklet form and online on the church website. Devotions will begin on the first Sunday of Advent, December 3, and continue each day until Christmas.
The devotions will help members of our church family learn more about each other, learn from each other and prepare for the celebration of Christmas.
Each day of the Advent season, a passage of scripture will be chosen. The devotions may be written by individuals, couples or families of all ages.
If you would like to participate by writing a devotion, please contact the church office/326-2643 or John Daily at jndaily67@gmail.com. A list of scripture passages is being composed and will be available early November. The list will be in the Sunday bulletin announcements. If you prefer you may also choose a scripture passage of your own.
Guidelines for writing a devotion:
Each devotion should have the scripture passage for the day, one verse or phrase you'd like to highlight from that scripture passage, a brief devotion, a short prayer and the writer’s (or writers’) name(s). The word limit for the devotion and prayer together is 250 words. Please avoid copying from another published source, but make sure to cite it if you do.
Ways to submit your devotion: email it to John Daily atjndaily67@gmail.com" or deliver it to Polly at the church office during business hours or drop it in the collection plate on Sundays.
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Prayer Concerns
A special prayer that you'll be blessed with tender care and needed rest, warm thoughts of friends that mean so much and most of all, God's healing touch.
REMEMBER TO PRAY FOR....
Members of Our Congregation
Kay Hall, Gwen Farver, Ruth Stacy, Doc and Dorothy Near,
Betty Reid, Enid Beadle, Bev & Les Yeaney, Norma Vanderpool, Ethel Scarpine,
Lillian Saunders, Tammy Rothwell, Mark Robbins, Ann Wise.
Family and Friends of our Congregation
Darrell Colgrove, Mary Grygier (Sister of Elaine Parker), Mike Strada (Brother of Elaine Parker), Abigail Jopek, The Pandolph/Peary Families (Friends of John Daily), Shawn Canfield (Son-in-Law of Mike & Kathy Ricketts), Cindy Harper.
Our Servicemen.
Capt. Christopher Kittle
Chief Petty Officer, James "JD" Watkins (Grandson of Betty Reid)
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Celebrations of Eternal Life...
Our deepest sympathy as a congregation is extended to the families and friends upon the death of their loved ones:
Beth S. Reynolds ~ Monday, October 16, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with all who have lost loved ones recently.
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FINANCIAL REPORT
Income through September 30th: $77,576.72
(2017 Pledges Paid to Date: $40,675.35 ~ 83% of pledges paid )
Expenses through September 30th: $116,023.09
Investment Funds used through September 30th: $36,700.00
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2018 Stewardship Campaign
“Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9: 7-8)
The 2018 Stewardship Campaign is up and running!
A letter and pledge card was mailed on October 24, 2017. Pledges are essential to our church's planning process in order to determine our annual budget and determine how we will cover our operating expenses. Our Stewardship goal for 2018 is to cover the operating expenses of the church so we no longer draw from our investments. If you didn't receive a letter and pledge card and you would like one, please call the church office/326-2643.
We are grateful for each and every gift given to the church!
Please have your pledge card returned by Monday, November 20. A sealed box has been placed in the Narthex of the church, or you can return your pledge card to the church office to the attention of the Stewardship Committee.
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the simple solution to community fundraising
As a church we are participating in TOPS Markets "Cash for Causes" program. We have purchased TOPS "Cash for Causes" gift cards that are available to church members and friends. You pay the cash value of the card and the church earns 5% on each card sold. We all buy groceries! There is no additional cost to you; you simply use the gift card. Cards are available in $25, $50 and $100 denominations. Please call (326-2643) or stop in the church office to purchase a gift card. To date, we have profited $
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Donate On-Line
The church has a "Donate Now" button on our website ~ steeplesinthepark.com. To donate to our church and ministry simply click on the donate tab located on the right hand side of the website. You will be directed to a secure Pay-Pal site to complete your donation. The Church greatly appreciates any and all contribution's.
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Habitat Day: Lend-a-Hand
The Chautauqua Area Habitat for Humanity is an ecumenical Christian Ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. They are currently working at 35 Beckman Avenue, Westfield. There is a job for everyone; no special skills required. The work sessions are Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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“A Christmas Carol”
Friday, November 17, 2017—7:00 p.m.
Sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, Westfield
A benefit for Lake Shore Center for the Arts
Tickets $10.00, suggested for ages 13 and above.
Presenting Mr. Kim Tenreiro performing Charles Dickens’ classic tale of reclamation and salvation.
A dramatic one-man performance that brings to life over 30 characters during the show.
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NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS
We all join in extending Greetings
and Best Wishes for a Happy Birthday.
May this day be Richly Blessed
With Peace and Joy and
Everything that makes for Happiness
1st
Chelsey MacCubbin
Josh Monroe
2nd
Ryleigh Sanderson
3rd
Jack Beckman
Luella Reynolds
Scott Sugar
7th
Kaelyn Helman
Elna Meleen
13th
Rob Schofield
15th
Aimee Helman
Barb Lynn
16th
Beth Cluchey
Jonathan Corbett
17th
Bob Dyment
18th
Pam Truitt
19th
Scott Freyn
Alberta Parker
20th
Mindi Monroe
Rhiannon Seminatore
24th
Ann Wise
25th
Casey Northrop
28th
Don Strobl
29th
Judy Womeldorf
Linda Young
30th
Cameron Wright
NOVEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
A special Anniversary Prayer...
That God's Eternal love
Will fill your heart this day
With joy and blessings from above
13th
Barb & Hank Lynn
15th
Lillian & Earl Saunders
Wednesday, November 1
9:00 a.m.
Worship & Music
Sunday, November 5
~ All Saints Day ~
10:00 a.m.
Sunday School
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Educaiton
Choir Rehersal
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
Monday, November 6
7:00 p.m.
Mission/Outreach Meeting
Tuesday, November 7
5 - Until Sold Out
Westfield Hospital Auxiliary
Ham Harvest Dinner
Friday, November 10
Veterans Day Observed
~ Church Office Closed
Sunday, November 12
10:00 a.m.
Sunday School
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
Choir Rehearsal
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
~ Communion ~
12:00 Noon
Dish-to-Pass
~ Hosted by Fellowship Committee ~
Wednesday, November 15
9:00 a.m.
Property & Finance
7:00 p.m.
Presbyterian Women's Sub-Committee Meeting
@ Pat Sciarrino's home
Friday, November 17
7:00 p.m.
"Christmas Carol"
~ Lakeshore Center for the Arts ~
In the Sanctuary
Sunday, November 19
10:00 a.m.
Sunday School
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
Choir Rehearsal
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
Monday, November 20
5:00 p.m.
Session Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Deacon Meeting
Thursday, November 23
~ Thanksgiving ~
Church Office Closed
Friday, November 24
~ Church Office Closed ~
Sunday, November 26
10:00 a.m.
Sunday School
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
Choir Rehearsal
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
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Thank a Veteran: A Veterans Day Poem
Today is the day we honor,
the noble and the brave,
the men and women who dedicated their lives,
and the sacrifices that they have made.
When America had an urgent need,
they were the first to raise their hand,
without thinking twice about it,
They were proud to take a stand.
Some came back from war with battle scars,
others in flagged draped coffins.
Even though their flesh may have left,
their spirits will never be forgotten.
They unselfishly and knowingly,
put their lives on the line,
so when you see veterans, thank them,
cause without them, freedom would have died.
