|
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 Brenda McCutcheon
Deacon of the Month September 2017 Mike Cluchey |
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God in the Seasons
~ By Joanna Fuchs ~
Lord,
In Spring we are reminded of the magnificence of Your creation,
as the earth is covered in verdant green,
with splendid splashes of color,
and we witness birth everywhere,
of animals bearing their young,
of buds turning into leaves and flowers
and our own moods being reborn
with renewed energy and life.
Lord,
in Summer, we remember
the warmth of Your love for us
and the light of Your goodness
Both are everywhere for those who look,
Thank You for butterflies,
birds and wildlife for us to enjoy,
water to swim in,
and weather that frees us to romp and play
while outdoor pleasures are at the peak.
Lord,
In Fall, we thank you for Your cooling breezes,
that bring relief from the relentless summer heat.
We see bright colors fading and dying,
leaves turning brown, crisp, disintegrating,
only to be reborn next year,
reminding us that every living thing, including us,
must die in some way before being reborn.
Lord,
In Winter, as white snow blankets the ground,
we are reminded of Your purity and Your perfection.
The complexity and beauty of each single snowflake
only hints at Your transcendent intelligence and creativity.
We hunker down and snuggle in,
knowing this season will wind down
and Spring will reappear, as it always has
because you created an orderly, predictable universe,
not by chance, but from your flawless design.
Thank You for the seasons, Lord,
and everything in them
that You created for our enjoyment.
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“We were glad to share not only God’s good news with you but also our very lives because we cared for you so much.” I Thessalonians 2:8, CEB
Dear Saints and Friends of First Presbyterian Church, Westfield,
We are now celebrating our two-month anniversary of being together in ministry! Judy and I have felt so welcomed by everyone here in the First Presbyterian Church congregation and the Westfield community, and we have felt so spiritually warmed by our worship and fellowship together.
Our hope is for the resurrection power of God to be manifested in our congregation, and for congregational renewal, which are prerequisites for spiritual and numerical growth. This will require patience for all of us to grow as leaders and disciples, and to guide the First Presbyterian congregation through all the necessary stages of change and growth that will be involved.
How can we learn to patiently guide our congregation through all the necessary stages of change and growth? The answer is love.
Love is more of an art than a science. Love is more a matter of Spirit and not merely a matter of following some code or formula, or simply plugging in some new program. It is modeled after the Master Shepherd, Jesus Christ himself, who for three years patiently walked and worked with twelve disciples who frequently struggled to understand the new message Jesus was teaching, and adjust to the messenger.
Modeling my ministry after Jesus’ ministry, I seek to walk and work among you. In order to walk and work among more of you however, I need to get to know you personally!
I have made it a personal challenge to meet and visit with as many members of the First Presbyterian congregation as I am able to before the end of this year. That means I need your help. I am in the process of calling members to set a time when I can come meet and visit with you personally. Please respond affirmatively when I call.
If you can’t wait for me to call you, please feel free to call me at the church office: 716.326.2643, or on my cell phone: 319.432.8650.
The words of the Apostle Paul best express my motivation for meeting with each of you: “We were glad to share not only God’s good news with you but also our very lives because we cared for you so much,” (I Thessalonians 2:8, CEB).
Yours in Christ’s love and service,
Rev. Ron Sumption
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The Presbytery of Western New York will conduct a service of installation for Ronald L. Sumption, as Pastor of our church on Sunday, October 22, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.
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The Worship Service on "Welcome Back Sunday," Sunday, September 10, will begin our 11:00 a.m. service schedule for the Fall/Winter months. Following the service will be a luncheon hosted by the Mission/Outreach Committee.
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We are happy to welcome Sharon Humphrey as a new member.
Sharon was received into membership on Sunday, August 6, 2017.
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Congratulations to...
Tim Wise and Sheanne Riley on the birth of their son, Cole Matthew Wise, on Monday, August 7, 2017 at Brooks Hospital. The proud grandmother is Ann Wise.
Tim and Margaret Parker Funderburk on the birth of their son, Bryce Parker Funderburk on Saturday, August 12, 2017 in Charlotte, NC. The proud grandparents are Walter and Elaine Parker.
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September 10 at 10:00 a.m.
Hello members of Westfield First Presbyterian! This is your music director giving out a call to all singers, from the shower to the choir loft. All are welcome! This is my last year as your choir director and I would love to have as many of you in the choir room as possible so we can all worship together by making music! I am excited to get new choral repertoire for us to try so I would love to share that with you all! Choir starts on September 10 at 10:00 a.m.
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2017 Vacation Bible School
Vacation Bible School was held Monday, August 14, and Tuesday, August 15, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for ages Kindergarten through 7th grade. There were 9 children that attended. The theme was "The Great Treasure Hunt." It featured pirates, angel and a whole lot of God's love!
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Join Us for...
Sunday School
Fall Kick-off
October 1, 2017
10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
Don't eat breakfast - come and make a your own pancake(s)!
2017 - 2018 will be an exciting year!
Bring a friend!
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Mission/Outreach News....
Buckhorn Children & Family Services has had a 115 year history of providing quality programs intended to improve the lives of at-risk children, youth and their families.
Buckhorn is now facing critical financial circumstances which threaten the continued existence of Buckhorn, its history and mission to provide a sanctuary of health, healing and hope for at-risk children, youth and families. This financial crisis is due in large part to the costs of caring for the children and youth in their care. To help their financial crisis the Mission Committee has adopted two new fundraising projects to help raise funds for Buckhorn. They are as follows:
SAVE THOSE DIMES!
"Dimes for Buckhorn." In September we will begin filling two 2 liter bottles with dimes. Each 2 liter bottle results in approximately $400. The bottles will be located at the entrances to the sanctuary or you can bring them to the church office.
Buck(s) for Buckorn Children & Family Services
There will be a box labeled "Buck(s) for Buckhorn" at the entrances to sanctuary. One dollar at at time we can help financially support at-risk children at Buckhorn Children & Family Services.
"Everyone should give whatever they have decided in their heart. They shouldn't give with hesitation or because of pressure. God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9: 7
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“Welcome Back” Picnic: On Sunday, September 10th the Mission Committee invites you to a picnic lunch following the 11:00 a.m. worship. The menu will include hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, corn on the cob, watermelon, dessert and a beverage. A donation of $10.00 will be appreciated (no charge for children and students). The proceeds will benefit the Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. If you plan to attend please call the church office/326-2643.
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Chosen International Medical Assistance
Chosen International Medical Assistance needs your shoes! Everyone has shoes they are no longer wearing, and don't know what to with, right? Chosen International Medical Assistance partners with funds2org to collect your used shoes. The shoes (including sneakers, boots, sandals, etc.) will be used to create and sustain micro-enterprise opportunities for low income entrepreneurs in developing nations. They will also stay out of landfills, AND, the more shoes collected, the more money Chosen IMA receives to continue its ministries! It's a Win, Win, Win! You can drop off your shoes at the church office or drop in a box located at the Portage Street entrance. Please rubber band each pair of shoes together. Thank you!
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PERSONAL CARE ITEMS
September is our month to collect personal care items for the Food Pantry. Items needed are toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, denture care products, men's shaving items, women's personal care items, shampoo, conditioner and hand lotion. Please try to contribute some of these needed items for those less fortunate. The Food Pantry appreciates any and all of our donations.
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HARVEST DINNER VOLUNTEERS
The Mission Committee is looking for volunteers for the Harvest Dinners. Volunteers are NECESSARY for the dinners to be successful. Please call the church office/326-2643 to volunteer for a date(s) listed below.
Week 1
Thursday, September 28
1:00 p.m.
Friday, September 29
2:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m. ~ Cashier, Hostess or Delivery
5:15 p.m. ~ Clean-up
Week 2
Friday, October 6
2:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m. ~ Cashier, Hostess or Delivery
5:15 p.m. ~ Clean-up
Week 3
Thursday, October 12
10:30 a.m.
Friday, October 13
2:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m. ~ Cashier, Hostess or Delivery
5:15 p.m. ~ Clean - up
Week 4
Friday, October 20
2:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m. ~ Cashier, Hostess or Delivery
5:15 p.m. ~ Clean-up
Week 5
Thursday, October 26
1:00 p.m.
Friday, October 27
2:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
4:30 p.m. ~ Cashier, Hostess or Delivery
5:15 p.m. ~ Clean-up
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October Harvest Dinners
Friday, September 29
Roast Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, Stuffing, Corn, Butternut Squash,
Cranberry-Orange Relish and Assorted Desserts.
Friday, October 6
Roast Pork, Mashed Potatoes, Sauerkraut, Seasoned Green Beans,
Warm Fruit, Homemade Rolls and Assorted Desserts.
Friday, October 13
Meat Loaf, Potato Stuffing, Harvard Beets, Sunset Salad, Succotash, Homemade Rolls and Assorted Desserts.
Friday, October 20
Baked Ham, Scalloped Potatoes, Vegetable Medley, Waldorf Salad, Homemade Rolls and Assorted Desserts.
Friday, October 27
Chicken and Biscuits, Mashed Potatoes, Buttered Peas & Carrots, Cranberry Salad and Assorted Desserts.
Adult Dinner $10.00
All dinners include a beverage.
Sit down, take-out or delivery available.
For delivery ~ please call the church office/326-2643 before Noon on the day of the dinner.
Proceeds benefiting Mission/Outreach Projects
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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.
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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. Please join them!
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Clerk's Pen(cil) II
Following the call to order, devotions and prayer by Moderator Rev. Ronald L. Sumption the Session took up the work of the church on Thursday, August 10, 2017.
Actions taken at the meeting are summarized as follows:
~ Received the Treasurer's report for July.
~ A congregational meeting was called for Sunday, September 17, to elect a deacon to a vacancy on the Board of Deacons and to vote on a change to the by-laws.
~ Approved the use of Fellowship Hall and Sanctuary by the Westfield Women's Organization for their Holly Tour on Sunday, November 19.
~ Approved the use of Fellowship Hall and Kitchen on Saturday, November 18, for "Breakfast with Santa" hosted by the 7th grade at WACS as a fundraiser for their Gettysburg trip.
~ Approved the use of Fellowship Hall & Kitchen by the YWCA on Tuesday, August 22, from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. for an Ice Cream Social.
~ Approved changing the monthly session meetings to the third Monday of each month at 5:00 p.m.
~ Approved Lakeshore Center for the Arts use of the Sunday School room during their performances of "Harvest Moon". The church will host a coffee/desert following the performances.
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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, Don Strobl, Ethel Scarpine, Lillian Saunders, Tammy Rothwell, Mark Robbins.
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), Lois Lindstrom (Mother of Kathy Ricketts), Cathy Vilardo-Strobl, Shawn Canfield (Son-in-Law of Mike & Kathy Ricketts).
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:
Marian Colt ~ Friday, August 11, 2017
(Sister of Robert Wilmarth)
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with all who have lost loved ones recently.
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FINANCIAL REPORT
Income through July 31st: $63,427.37
(2017 Pledges Paid to Date: $33,070.35)
Expenses through July 31st: $87,856.77
Investment Funds used through July 31st: $28,700.00
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SEPTEMBER 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
Aryanna Ellis
Marjory Fritz
2nd
Brenda McCutcheon
3rd
Clinton Parker
Ariana Robbins
Justin Smith
4th
Mark Robbins
7th
Jane McMaster
11th
Dylan MacCubbin
12th
Tim Wise
14th
Brett MacCubbin
15th
Jean Mead
Margaret Parker
16th
Nikki Corbett
Nancy Hagedorn
17th
Heidi Duncombe
Sharon Humphrey
18th
Jeff Monroe
Matt Monroe
Dorothy Near
19th
Gary Crowell
Tammy Rothwell
Lillian Saunders
22nd
Matt Swank
25th
Kellie Sacilowski
26th
Penny Deakin
Karen Swank
28th
Madeline Barton
David Wilson
SEPTEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
A special Anniversary Prayer...
That God's Eternal love
Will fill your heart this day
With joy and blessings from above
3rd
Phil & Linda Young
4th
Derek & Brittany Edwards
12th
Brett & Terri MacCubbin
15th
Scott & Shelly Freyn
26th
Barry & Cathi Wright
27th
Eric & Marie Edwards
Friday, September 1
7:30 p.m.
Bonfire
~ Church Lawn ~
Saturday, September 2
8:00 p.m.
Lakeshore Center for the Arts production of
"Harvest Moon"
~ Sanctuary ~
Sunday, September 3
9:00 a.m.
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
10:00 a.m.
Family Worship
Monday, September 4
Labor Day
~ Church Office Closed ~
Tuesday, September 5
7:00 p.m.
Mission/Outreach Meeting
Wednesday, Setpember 6
9:00 a.m.
Worship & Music
8:00 p.m.
Lakeshore Center for the Arts Production of
"Harvest Moon"
~ Sancaturary ~
"Welcome Back" Sunday, September 10
10:00 a.m.
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Eduction
10:00 a.m.
Choir Rehearsal
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
12:00 Noon
"Welcome Back" Luncheon
~ Hosted by Mission/Outreach ~
Tuesday, September 12
10:30 a.m.
Fellowship Meeting
Sunday, Setpember 17
10:00 a.m.
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
10:00 a.m.
Choir Rehearsal
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
Monday, September 18
5:00 p.m.
Session Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Deacon Meeting
Wednesday, September 20
9:00 a.m.
Property & Finance Meeting
Sunday, Septembe 24
10:00 a.m.
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
10:00 a.m.
Choir Rehearsal
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
Friday, September 29
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Roast Turkey Harvest Dinner
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A calm and undisturbed
mind and heart
are the life and health
of the body
Proverbs 14: 30
