|
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 December 2017 Trudy Gollnitz |
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Recipe for Christmas All Year Long
~ By Joanna Fuchs ~
Take a heap of child-like wonder
That opens up our eyes
To the unexpected gifts in life—
Each day a sweet surprise.
Mix in fond appreciation
For the people whom we know;
Like festive Christmas candles,
Each one has a special glow.
Add some giggles and some laughter,
A dash of Christmas food,
(Amazing how a piece of pie
Improves our attitude!)
Stir it all with human kindness;
Wrap it up in love and peace,
Decorate with optimism, and
Our joy will never cease.
If we use this healthy recipe,
We know we will remember
To be in the Christmas spirit,
Even when it's not December.
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“Now all of this took place so that what the Lord had spoken through the prophet would be fulfilled: ‘Look! A virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel.’ (Emmanuel means, ‘God with us.’”)
Matthew 1:22-23 (CEB)
Dear Saints and Friends of the First Presbyterian Church of Westfield,
Babies are cute. They are not supposed to inspire awe.
Perhaps that’s one reason why people find it so easy to trivialize Christmas. Baby Jesus, lying helpless in the manger, can be viewed with mild affection. Folks can smile down at him, and then move on to the real business of the season – shopping, vacation, being with the family, mailing greeting cards or sending e-cards that say, “Holiday Greetings” and, so, are unlikely to offend with an overly religious message.
Despite what people may assume, Matthew wasn’t interested in having us meet “Baby Jesus.” We know, because over and over this Gospel writer quoted from the Old Testament. And the passages he selected and applied directly to Christ are passages that insist we see not an infant, but a King; not a babe, but the Master of the universe.
Who is Jesus to Matthew? Matthew 1:23 (see above) identifies Jesus with a virgin-born child. What did the Old Testament prophet Isaiah say about Jesus? Isaiah wrote, “Therefore, the Lord will give you a sign. The young woman is pregnant and is about to give birth to a son, and she will name him Immanuel,” (Isaiah 7:14).
Jesus is “Emmanuel,” (also spelled "Immanuel") a name that in Hebrew means, “With Us Is GOD!” or, as we would say it in English, “God with us.” Look at the babe in the manger, not with mild affection, but in awe, because in this child all the glory of God shines through.
Matthew also quoted from Micah 5, which predicted the birth in Bethlehem of a ruler who would be the shepherd of God’s people, Israel. Looking in Micah, we discover that “He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord,” In fact, “in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.” His people will be secure because “.....he will surely become great throughout the earth.” (Micah 5:4). Why not, when his strength is the strength of God, and his majesty the name of the Lord, which he bears!
The Christ we need to keep in Christmas is not the babe so much as the King of kings. To catch the true spirit of Christmas, read again Matthew’s account – and the prophecies he quotes. And then bow down in awe.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Ron Sumption
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7:00 p.m.
The shopping is done, presents wrapped and now it's time to stop and focus on the true reason for the season. Jesus Christ, who came to earth as a human child to forgive mankind for its sins, is why we gather on this holiest of nights. Join us for a special service; and light candles symbolizing Jesus as the Light of the World. We look forward to seeing you Christmas Eve!
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Christmas is Coming!
Christmas Poinsettias - Now is the time to remember your loved one by donating to the Flower Fund. By giving a Christmas memorial, you will make possible the lovely display of poinsettias and the beautiful live wreaths on the outside doors as a gift to us and to the entire village.
If you would like to give a poinsettia as a Christmas memorial in honor of someone, or make a financial contribution for the decorations, please make your check payable to the First Presbyterian Church, earmarked poinsettia; and mail to the church office or place in the offering plate on Sunday. Include who the memorial is in memory of or in honor of and by whom the gift is given. Each poinsettia is $11.00.
After our Christmas Eve service, the Deacons will distribute the poinsettias to our shut-ins. Should you elect to take your donation to one of our members or otherwise, PLEASE let the office know your intentions so enough poinsettias can be ordered.
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Mission/Outreach News....
"Thanks be to God for this indescribable gift"
2 Corinthians 9: 15
The Christmas Joy Offering celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the truly "indescribable gift," as well as the gifts of church leaders ~ past, present and future.
In the second letter to the Corinthians, Paul talks of a generous gift that has been promised. As he sends folks ahead to make arrangements for this gift, he takes the opportunity to illuminate the impact of generosity. Paul grounds readers first in God's generosity, reminding us that God not only provides seed for sowing and bread for food, but God goes further, partnering in human generosity both as source and as amplification. The gifts we give are from God, and they are multiplied and increased by God as we give. The result of the generous gift made by the Corinthians therefore has a compounding effect, enriching the Corinthians "in every way." It results in impact to those whose need is met, and the ministry made possible by the gift ~ to the giver of the gift as well. It then overflows in thanksgiving to God and benefits the whole church as it inspires and testifies to the gracious work of God through Christ. It is that grace, then, that Paul describes as "indescribable."
Through the work of the Christmas Joy Offering, we seek the living of this truth: that God's generosity is the source, the support, and the outcome of our own. We give because God has freely given. We give to support the needs of our church leaders ~ past, present and future ~ and God amplifies and extends those gifts through the ministry of those leaders. Their gifts of ministry extend and amplify as well, "Overflowing" in thanksgiving to God, and the entire environment of generosity bears witness to God's grace, a truly indescribable gift.
Devoted and caring leaders have led many of us in the way of Christ. They have been church workers equipping us to respond to the grace we have known in Jesus Christ, and they have been God's gifts among us. As we celebrate Christ's coming, and think of the profound impact these individuals have had on us, the Christmas Joy Offering provides a way for us to offer a gift in response. Gifts to the Christmas Joy Offering will raise up leaders from small places that are too often overlooked by the church. The historically Presbyterian racial ethnic schools were founded to educate emerging leaders from under-represented groups so leadership in the church would better reflect the diversity of God's people.
Half of the Christmas Joy Offering supports the continued ministry of educating and forming Christian leaders. The other half of the Offering honors those leaders who serve and have served us well. Through the Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions, current and retired church workers who experience need because of tragedy, health concerns or financial hardship can receive assistance from the church they have served so well.
In gratitude to God for the wondrous gift of Jesus, please join in this celebration of God's presence with us by supporting those in need of help and hope.
Envelopes for the Offering are available in the pew racks, or gifts can be mailed to the church office at 49 South Portage Street, Westfield, NY 14787, earmarked "Christmas Joy Offering." Thank you for your gifts!
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Christmas Cards for the children at Buckhorn Children & Family Services
During the holiday season, Buckhorn would like us to send a Christmas Card to a child(ren) at there facility in Kentucky. The card doesn't have to be fancy or full of words, maybe something simple like: This card is to let you know that you are not alone during this holiday season. Here's wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
If you decide to send a card, please do so by December 18. They will give your card to one of their children and youth. These children and youth are between the ages of 12 - 18 years, most of whom have been severely abused/neglected. They reside at Buckhorn to help them deal with their trauma. Many have no contact with their family or friends from their past. A message from you will show them that they are not alone and that there are people who care. It's a small gesture that makes a BIG difference.
Please mail your card to: Buckhorn Children & Family Services, 116 Buckhorn Lane, Buckhorn, KY 41721
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ANGEL TREE
The "Angels" were available for pick-up after the worship service on November 5, 12 & 19.
By adopting an "Angel" you are making this season a bit brighter for many who would otherwise not have a Merry Christmas. For those of you who adopted an "Angel" - remember we must have your gift by Sunday, December 10, for a special dedication.
Guidelines for your "Angel" gift: Have your angels number taped securely to your gift(s). Union Relief requests that all gifts be UNWRAPPED; gift boxes or bags are acceptable.
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Operation Christmas Child - a project of Samaritan's Purse
~ The Power of Simple Gift ~
A heartfelt thank you to those members and friends who filled a shoe box(es). You have brought joy and hope to children in desperate situations worldwide through your gift-filled shoe box(es). A total of 22 shoe boxes were delivered to the collection center in Mayville. We will let you know when we are notified where our boxes were shipped.
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Chosen International Medical Assistance
Chosen International Medical Assistance (CIMA) needs your shoes! Everyone has shoes they are no longer wearing, and don't know what to do with. Right? CIMA 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 also will stay out of landfills; AND, the more shoes collected, the more money CIMA 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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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 the sanctuary. One dollar at a time means we can help to financially support at-risk children at
Buckhorn Children & Family Services.
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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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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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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 into the church office to purchase a gift card. To date, we have profited $840.00
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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 contributions.
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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 and Kathy Ricketts
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), Linda Smalstig, 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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FINANCIAL REPORT
Income through October 31st: $88,708.77
(2017 Pledges Paid to Date: $46,935.35 ~ 86% of Pledges)
Expenses through October 31st: $132,513.20
Investment Funds used through October 31st: $41,700.00
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2018 Stewardship Campaign ~ Update
"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!
To date, total pledging units 24 for a total of $24,920.00
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.
There is still time for any and/or all of those members of First Presbyterian Church who have not pledged to do so. If you didn't receive a letter and pledge card and you would like one, please call the church office/326-2643. Please mail your pledge card to the church office earmarked "Stewardship."
We are grateful for each and every gift given to the church!
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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 Deacons' 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 for the remainder of 2017 and 2018.
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 onestpresby@fairpoint.net to reserve a special date.
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Update....
The Mission Committee extends its thanks to all the volunteers who gave their time and talents to the 2017 Harvest Dinners. The dinners would not have been successful without your help! The profit for 2017 dinners was $4,475.05.
September 29
Served 114, Receipts $1,143.00, Expenses $78.09, Profit $1,064.91
October 6
Served 86, Receipts $870.00, Expenses $108.94, Profit $761.06
October 13
Served 85, Receipts $875.00, Expenses $124.96, Profit $750.04
October 20
Served 85, Receipts $890.00, Expenses $107.16, Profit $782.84
October 27
Served 115, Receipts $1,210.00, Expenses $93.80, Profit $1,116.20
For 2017, total dinners served 486, Receipts $4,988.00, Expenses $512.95, Profit $4,475.05.
Income/Expense History of the Harvest Dinners
2009
Served 324, Receipts 2,745.98, Expenses $532.56, Profit $2,213.42
2010
Served 295, Receipts $3,144.61; Expenses $484.61, Profit $2,660.00
2011
Served 343, Receipts $3,486.40; Expenses $503.40, Profit $2,983.00
2012
There was a sixth meal served after church due to the amount of left-overs from a Friday dinner. This increased the receipts as well as profit.
Served 351, Receipts $3,707.00; Expenses $496.53; Profit $3,209.47
2013
Served 359, Receipts $3,786.00; Expenses $522.90; Profit $3,263.31
2014
Served 403, Receipts $4,147.00; Expenses $551.62; Profits $3,595.38
2015
Served 458, Receipts $4,700.00,;Expenses $545.83; Profit $4,154.92
2016
Served 5094, Receipts $5,026.00,;Expenses $553.08; Profit $4,472.92
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Westfield Community Kitchen
Annual Fall Soup Supper
Monday, December 4, 2017
5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
at the Westfield Methodist Church Community Room
Adults $8, Children under 5 - $3, a Family $20
There will be a multitude of fabulous soups from local restaurants, chefs
and soup lovers.
The Community is invited to attend!
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A "Thank You" note was received from Westfield Women's Organization for the use of Fellowship Hall & Kitchen during their annual Holly Tour:
"Thank you Presbyterian Church parishioners, for opening your church to the Westfield Women's Organization for our place of rest and dessert on the day of the Holly Tour.
It is very generous of you to let us decorate and use the Fellowship Hall"
Sincerely, Sandy Brown
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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
2nd
Patty Robbins
3rd
Jake Freyn
4th
Wendy Dyment
Victoria Patchkofsky
9th
Jack Bills
Ashley Rosado
11th
Rich Schroeder
12th
Darla Augur
Kristen Monroe
14th
Tyler Wright
15th
Don Eno
Sally Merwin
Betty Wilson
16th
Chris Trump
18th
Holly Gollnitz
Erma Lloyd
19th
Ann Deakin
Ethel Scarpine
Ralph Wakeley
Jim Scarpine
20th
Chris Barton
22nd
Emily Parker
24th
Christian Deakin
27th
Jerry Kittle
Sherry Mead
Alexis Grapes
28th
Julie Murphy
29th
Phil Young
30th
Doc Near
ANNIVERSARIES
A special Anniversary Prayer...
That God's Eternal love
Will fill your heart this day
With joy and blessings from above
16th
Diane & Jim Scarpine
17th
Joan & Tom Lemke
31st
Amy & Bob North
Sunday, December 3
10:00 a.m.
Choir Rehearsal
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
~ Communion ~
12:00 Noon
Presbyterian Women's Meeting
~ Brown Bag Lunch ~
Monday, December 4
6:00 p.m.
Deacon Christmas Dinner
~ Webb's ~
Tuesday, December 7
7:00 p.m.
Mission/Outreach Meeting
Wednesday, December 6
9:00 a.m.
Worship & Music Meeting
Sunday, December 10
10:00 a.m.
Choir Rehearsal
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
Sunday School - Pageant Rehearsal
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
Friday, December 15
"It's a Wonderful Life"
~ Hosted by Lakeshore Center for the Arts ~
in Sanctuary
Sunday, Decmeber 17
10:00 a.m.
Sunday School
Choir Rehearsal
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
Sunday School - Pageant Rehearsal
11:00 a.m.
Children's Christmas Pageant
Friday, December 15
Church Office Closed
Monday, December 18
5:00 p.m.
Session Meeting
5:30 p.m.
Joint Meeting of the Deacon's and Session
Sunday, December 24
10:00 a.m.
Choir Rehearsal
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
7:00 p.m.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Monday, December 25
Church Office Closed
Tuesday, December 26
Church Office Closed
Sunday, December 31
10:00 a.m.
Choir Rehearsal
Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education
11:00 a.m.
Family Worship
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A
Shiny
Little Star
Burned bright
Full of glowing light
Spreading joy to the night
Christmas time!
A time that fills us with desire
And slowly sets our hearts on fire
We pray, we love and listen to the choir
A jolly Christmas time
The Christmas tree stands so tall and so proud
Takes a seat on the presents as they become a crowd
Looks over the treasured presents like a hovering cloud
Everybody loves Christmas time
It's decorated merrily with colours and materials of all kinds
It created a place of pleasure and joy for our eyes, and our minds
And many years of pleasure and memories it always unwinds
Christmas
Is slowly
On its
Way
To
Us
