The   Chronicle   is   Published by   First Presbyterian Church  49 South Portage Street  Westfield, New York             2018

Church Office Hours 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday   Office:  (716) 326-2643 Fax:  (716) 793-6019   Website: www.steeplesinthepark.com   E-Mail: onestpresby@fairpoint.net    Pastor Ronald L. Sumption ronaldsumption@live.com (319) 432-8650 Administrative Assistant Polly M. Knopp   Custodian Brenda McCutcheon   Deacon of the Month MAY 2018 Sherry Mead

 

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Mothers Are Special 

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Dear Saints and Friends of the First Presbyterian Church and Society of Westfield,

Last month I wrote about the conclusion of a six-week Leadership Training session I led that was based on the book I Refuse to Lead a Dying Church by Paul Nixon. The premise of the book is that God intends every servant of the Resurrected Christ to be a servant of life, and that God invites every church of every sort of community to thrive. It is Nixon's contention that any church can blossom and grow anywhere if it will become healthy enough spiritually and pay attention to the needs, experiences and sensibilities of those it seeks to serve.

 

Nixon states that every thriving church with which he has worked has devoted much energy to community building. An important part of building community for thriving churches is the creation and nurture of a dynamic network of small groups. These small groups function as the basic building block for pastoral care, fellowship, and spiritual formation. Nixon states: “We know such groups work, because thousands of churches around the world have experienced the power of such community.” Nixon goes on to state: “We know that small groups work, and that they are powerful forces for spiritual life in the churches that depend upon them.”

Here's how this applies to you. I am inviting you to participate in a small group which I will facilitate, beginning later in May. The purpose of this small group will be for pastoral care, fellowship, and spiritual formation, and will be on-going. If you are interested in participating, please contact me, either directly or through the church office, indicating your interest, your name and contact information, and the two days of the week and times of day that would work best for you to meet. 

I am also inviting you to participate in a second six-week Leadership Training session based on the book I Refuse to Lead a Dying Church. The session will begin in June. Again, if you are interested, please contact me, either directly or through the church office, indicating your interest, your name and contact information, and the two days of the week and times of day that would work best for you to meet. 

Our church can blossom and grow if we will become healthy enough spiritually and pay attention to the needs, experiences and sensibilities of those we seek to serve. Devoting ourselves to building community by establishing a small-group ministry and participating in leadership training will help us live into claiming God's promise found in Jeremiah: “'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,'” (Jeremiah 29:11, CEB)

Yours in Christ's love and service,

Rev. Ron Sumption

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Mission/Outreach News....

 

~ BUILDING A LIFE OF FAITH ~

MAY 20, 2018 

“O God, from my youth you have taught me,

and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds.”

Psalm 71: 17

 

The Pentecost Offering unites us in a churchwide effort to support young people in Christ and inspire them to share their faith, ideas, and unique gifts with the church and the world.

 

Each year on Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birthday of the church. The Holy Spirit remains with us still, connecting us with the church of the past, continuing to inspire the church of today, and pointing us to the church of the future.

 

Studies show that a foundation of faith established during childhood through young adulthood, helps ensure lifelong faith and service. Psalm 71 testifies to this same truth. Verse 17 says “O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds.” The patterns and lessons established during these formative years continue to bear fruit throughout a person’s life.

 

These lessons might be taught through a congregation’s commitment to Educate a Child, Transform the World in ministries that shape a child’s academic achievement, setting them on a path toward a stable future. They might be taught through one of the youth events sponsored by Ministries with Youth at the national church that brings together young people from all over the country to share their experiences of faith with one another, and learn how their faith can help them address challenges all over the world. Or our young adults may be guided through a year of intentional service where they discern God’s call upon their lives by our Young Adult Volunteer Program.

 

And there is more -- Presbyterian congregations are finding new ways to minister to children at-risk in their own communities. General Assembly programs are advocating for children and developing youth and young adult leaders.

 

By giving to the Pentecost Offering, one of the four Special Offerings of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), we are nurturing the faith of those who are the church to come; children, youth, and young adults. We invite you to join with the worldwide church in building for our future, in building individual lives of faith. Won’t you join us on the Day of Pentecost, May 20? If we all do a little, it adds up to a lot.

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The Mission Committee will host a yard sale at the home of Marjory Fritz on the weekend of July 27 and 28 to raise funds for on-going mission causes throughout the year.  All members and friends are asked to donate one or two nice items for the sale.  If you need assistance in getting your item(s) to the church, please contact the church office at 326-2643.  We also ask that no clothing be donated for this particular sale.  (If you have clothing you wish to donate, please consider using the St. Pauly clothing drop-off shed located at the Lakeshore Assembly of God Church on East Main Street.)  Items for the yard sale will be accepted beginning June 1.  VOLUNTEERS are needed for the following times each day of the sale: 10a.m. - 12 Noon, 12 Noon  - 2 p.m., 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.   If you would like to volunteer please contact Hank Lynn/326-4314 or the church office/326-2643.

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Cinco de Mayo Luncheon

May 6

Join the fun and come to the Mission Committee's fourth Mexican fiesta!! The event will take place immediately following worship on May 6.  The menu includes Mexican Pizza, Enchiladas, Mexican Macaroni & Cheese., Taco Salad, Sangria Punch, Desserts, Coffee and Tea.  Please NOTE none of these items will be hot and spicy, so the luncheon may be enjoyed by all.  A donation of $10 is suggested (no charge for Children & Students).   Proceeds will be used for various Mission Projects throughout the year.  If you plan to attend please call the church office/326-2643

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"You shall be called repairers fo the breach"  Isaiah 58

"Sharing God's love with our neighsbor in-need around the world by providing relief from natural disasters, food for the hungry, and support for the poor and oppressed.

Our thanks go out to everyone who made a gift to the One Great Hour of Sharing offering on Easter.  As of this date our gift of $370 has been sent to the Presbytery for distirubtion to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, Presbyterian Hunger Programs and Self Development to serve people seeking to reclaim and restore their lives.

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Soles Healing Souls

 

Chosen International Medical Assistance

"A Christ ministry dedicated to improving the quality of life to all God's people for His glory."

 

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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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 fundraising projects to help

raise funds for Buckhorn.

 

KEEP SAVING THOSE DIMES! 

"Dimes for Buckhorn."  In September 2017 we began filling three 2 liter bottles with dimes.  Each 2 liter bottle results in approximately $400.  The bottles are 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 we can help financially support at-risk children at Buckhorn  Children & Family Services.

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Looking ahead...

The 2018 Chicken Barbecue ~ it's not too early to be thinking about the Chicken Barbecue.  This year's BBQ is July 27 and 28.  VOLUNTEERS for this event are NECESSARY for it to be successful!  

 

The following are areas of opportunities for you to volunteer:   kitchen, servers, corn huskers or cookers, chicken cookers, runners, parking lot or ticket sales.  To have a convenient choice of the day or time you prefer, volunteering soon will guarantee the day and time of your choosing.  DON'T DELAY!  You can volunteer by calling Mike Ricketts/753-7831 or the church office/326-2643.

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Our Summer Worship schedule begins Sunday, May 27, at 10:00 a.m. and will   continue through Sunday, September 2, 2018. 

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Thursday, May 3, 2018

7:00 p.m.

Eason Hall

 

The National Day of Prayer was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman.  In 1988, the law was unanimously amended by both the House and the Senate and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan on Thursday, May 5, 1988, designating the first Thursday of May as a day of national prayer.  Every president since 1952 has signed a National Day of Prayer proclamation.

Prayer brings people together.  Prayer builds bridges between opposing persons and even political parties.  Prayer reminds us that we are created in God's image and He desires for us to represent Him everywhere we go.  Prayer brings UNITY.  This year, the theme will be PRAYER FOR AMERICA - UNITY, based upon Ephesians 4: 3 which challenges us to mobilize unified public prayer for America, "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." 

Please join the Westfield Ministerial Association on Thursday, May 3, at 7:00 p.m. at Eason Hall - Everyone is welcome!

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Clerk's Pen(cil) II

 Following the call to order by Moderator Rev. Ronald L. Sumption, the Session took up the work of the church on Tuesday, April 17, 2018.

 

Actions taken at the meeting are summarized as follows:

~ Received the Treasurer and Deacon report.

~ Removed Ruth C. Stacy from active membership rolls due to death. (Death:  February 14, 2018).

~ Removed Tammy L. Rothwell from active membership rolls due to death.  (Death:  Saturday, March 17, 2018)

~ Approved the use of the church for the wedding of Ramona Luder's daughter on Saturday, September 1, 2018.

~ Received Ann Weidman's letter of resignation as a Member-at-Large from the 2018 Nominating Committee.

~ Approved the summer worship schedule to begin on Sunday, May 27 at 10:00 a.m. 

~ Approved the use of the Fellowship Hall and the Kitchen by the Westfield Hospital Auxiliary on November 5 for a community dinner.

~ Approved the use of Fellowship Hall and Kitchen on Saturday, May 12 for a Mother's Day cupcake decorating event.

~ Approved the use of Fellowship Hall and the Kitchen by Westfield School, seventh graders on Memorial Day, May 28, for a pancake breakfast.  

 

Other Business...

~ Reviewed the job description for the Organist/Choir Director.

~ Nominating Committee will meet to fill 2 vacancies - 2018 Nominating Committe Member-at-Large and a Deacon (Class of 2018)

 

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THE SESSION

Class of 2018 

Hank Lynn

Jane McMaster

Diane Scarpine

Class of 2019

John Daily

Will Northrop

Mike Ricketts

Class of 2020

Marion Eno

Bob Rau

Jamie Scarpine

 

BOARD OF DEACONS

Class of 2018

Vacancy

Trudy Gollnitz

Sherry Mead

Barb Sanders

Class of 2019

Carolyn Bills

Dean Mead

Pat Sciarrino

Judy Sumption

Class of 2020

Sharon Humphrey

Elaine Parker

Mark Smith

Nancy Smith

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August 17 & 18 

A Next to New Sale is in the early planning stages—before moving forward we would like to the know if there is any interest in donations of clothing, shoes

OR volunteering your time for the sale. THIS IS NOT A RUMMAGE SALE. This would be a church function to raise funds for general operating expenses. The unsold items will be donated to the Vietnam Veterans of America.

 

To show your interest please contact Marion Eno/326-2174 or the Church

office/326-2643.

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the simple solution to community fundraising

 

As a church we continue to 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 $50 and $100 denominations.  Please call (326-2643) or stop in the church office to purchase a gift card.  Since June 2016, the profit from the gifts cards is $1,591.25.

 

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'Donate Now' button

 

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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Habitat Day:  Lend-a-Hand

 

The Chautauqua Area Habitat for Humanity is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all decidated 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 session are Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

 

If you would like to provide refreshments for the Habitat Volunteers please contact Debbie Caruso at Hurlbut Church, 357-4045. Refreshments are needed for Saturday mornings at 10:00 a.m.

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Nothing quite like REAL flowers! 

 

In 2018 we will continue the effort to have fresh flowers in Church every Sunday.  The Church Sanctuary is a living place and a place to experience all that God has created.  Flower donations are made directly to the church.  A donation of $25 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 to request a week in 2018 for flowers in memory or in honor of a special person.

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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, Doc and Dorothy Near, Betty Reid, Enid Beadle, Bev & Les Yeaney, Norma Vanderpool, Gloria Wakeley, Lillian Saunders,  Mark Robbins, Barb Lynn, 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), Cathy Vilardo-Strobl, Walter Brown, Cody Crandall & Cindy Harper.

 

Our Servicemen

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:

 

Raymond E. Barrett ~ Saturday, March 24, 2018

(Father of Erin Seminatore)

Joseph D'Angelo ~ Sunday, April 15

(Brother-in-Law of Pat Sciarrino)

 

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with all who have lost loved ones recently. 

 

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FINANCIAL REPORT

Income through March 31:  $29,283.56

(2018 Pledges Paid to Date:  $17,837.00)

Expenses through March 31:  $41,830.04

Investment Funds used through March 31:  $10,200.00

 

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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

1st

Scott Gross

5th

Mary Ann Buettner

HAPPY 90th MARY ANN!

Melanie Ricketts

7th

Tina Neal

8th

Joan Kunow

9th

Andrew Riforgiato

Jodi Wilson

12th

Will Northrop

Les Yeaney

14th

Jim Boyle

Marion Eno

Destinee Rogers

17th

Paul Farver

19th

Stephanie Clawson

Terri MacCubbin

Pat Sciarrino

21st

John Wysard

24th

Sue Gross

25th

Art Webster

27th 

Candy Hamilton

30th

Julie Travis

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ANNIVERSARIES

A special Anniversary Prayer...

That God's Eternal love

Will fill your heart this day

With joy and blessings from above

10th

Brenda & Don Bird

14th

Ramona & David Luder

15th

Polly & Jake Knopp

25th

Nancy & Mark Smith

 

 

Tuesday, May 1

5:30 p.m.

Worship & Music Meeting

Sunday, May 6

10:00 a.m.

Choir Rehearsal

Sunday School

Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education

11:00 a.m.

Family Worship

12:00 Noon

Cinco de Mayo Luncheon

~ Hosted by Mission/Outreach Committee ~

Monday, May 7

7:00 p.m.

Mission/Outreach Meeting

Saturday, May 12

2 p.m. to  4:00 p.m.

Cupcake Decorating Event

 

Sunday, May 13

10:00 a.m.

Choir Rehearsal

Sunday School

Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education

11:00 a.m.

Family Worship

Tuesday, May 15

6:00 p.m

Session Meeting

Wednesday, May 16

9:00 a.m.

Property & Finance Meeting

Thursday, May 17

7:00 p.m. 

Presbyterian Women's Meeting

Sunday, May 20

10:00 a.m.

Choir Rehearsal

Sunday School

Christian Nurture ~ Adult Education

11:00 a.m.

Family Worship

Monday, May 21

7:00 p.m.

Deacon Meeting

Friday, May 25

Church Office Closed

Sunday, May 27

10:00 a.m.

Family Worship

Monday, Mary 28

~ Memorial Day ~

7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Veteran's Breakfast

sponsored by 

7th Grade from WACS

~ Fellowship Hall

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This is Memorial Day

by:  Samuel Lombardo

This is Memorial Day

In our land of the free.

It's because of those who sacrificed

Whose graves you're here to see.

They fought on foreign lands

And across the open seas

And paid the ultimate price 

To keep you and I free.

So put all things aside

And honor this important day,

Which we have dedicated

As our Memorial Day.