Florence Congregational Church
Parish Visitor
August 2015
Faith ♦ Christ ♦ Community
In This Month’s Issue:
Upcoming Events
Anniversaries & Birthdays .…….…….………………………… 8
Church Record ..………………….……...……………………… 6
Decorations & Property Note ………..………………………… 1
Friendship Circle ……………………..…………..……………… 7
Fund Raising (Bazaar etc.) ..…………..……..…..…….……… 4
Lectionary Readings ………………..……………..……………. 7
Missions …………………..………………………..……………. 3
Musical News ………………………………………………… . 3
NEW HYMNALS ……………………………………..….………. 9
Operation Christmas Child …………………………..……...….. 5
Parish Nurse …………………………………………..………… 5
Pastor’s Corner..………………….……………………..….……. 2
Pint & Burger …………………….……………………..………. 4
Prayer List ..…..…………………………..…………………..… 6
Recipe Corner …….…………………………………………….. 8
Upcoming Events ..………………………………………………. 1
Tuesday, August 4th @ 6:00 pm
A Pint, A Burger @ the Brewmaster
Wednesday, August 12th
Property Mtg @ 7pm
Wednesday, August 12th
Trustees Mtg @ 7pm
Wednesday, August 12th
Cabinet Mtg @ 7pm
The Decorating and Property Committees thank everyone who stayed after church
on Sunday, June 7 to help clean up the gardens, lawns, trees and sweep the parking
lot including several BA members who pitched in to help. It was a gorgeous breezy
day and everyone worked well together to make the curbside appeal happen. A
truckload of mulch donated by Bill was spread. Thanks to Keith and Don who also
donated all the Hosta plants and to the Bates for the potting soil. You might notice
that the almost dead tree in the garden was removed as well. Thank you everyone!!
Sandy, Donna and Phyllis
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August 2015
Ten years ago I was on the road driving to Florence, almost weekly to meet up
with many of you serving on various boards and committees. Having accepted
your “call” in July of 2005, I wanted to get to know you before our big move to
Florence in early September. The trip of 293 miles one way was and is a journey
of about five and a half hours. I recall the sense of adventure, excitement and new possibilities filling my mind and
prodding my heart. The journey here has been all that and more. I continue to wrestle with the awe and wonder
of God’s work here at the Florence Congregational Church. I have had long conversations with many of you as of
late regarding our work and limited resources that seem to create a lot of angst. I am reminded of an email I
received a while ago:
God has a positive answer:
You say, “It’s impossible”
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God says, “All things are possible” (Luke 18:27)
You say, “I’m too tired”
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God says, “I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28-30)
You say, “I can’t go on”
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God says, “My grace is sufficient” (II Corinthians 12:9)
You say, “I can’t figure things out”
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God says, “I will direct your steps” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say, “I can’t do it”
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God says, “You can do all things” (Philippians 4:13)
You say, “I am not able”
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God says, “I am able” (II Corinthians 9:8)
You say, “It’s not worth it”
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God says, “It will be worth it” (Roman 8:28)
You say, “I can’t forgive myself”
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God says, “I forgive you” (Romans 8:1)
You say, “I can’t manage”
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God says, “I will supply your needs” (Philippians 4:19)
You say, “I am afraid”
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God says, “I have not given you a spirit of fear” (II Tim. 1:7)
You say, “I am always worried and frustrated” -----
God says, “Cast all your cares on me” (I Peter 5:7)
You say, “I don’t have enough faith” -----
God says, “I have given everyone a measure of faith (Rom.12:3)
You say, “I’m not smart enough”
-------
God says, “I give you wisdom” (I Corinthians 1:30)
You say, “I feel all alone”
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God says, “I will never leave you or forsake you” (Heb. 13:5)
What do you say, really? What do you have to say about your church to the community? Things are changing
here in Florence, the Paradise of Northampton. There are many things to consider as we meet to discuss the
future of FCC. What is it you will say? What do you imagine God will say? My dad, and later friends, Sister Anne
and Sister Green encouraged me to ask questions, to recognize fear, to be strong and to face the obstacles of life.
“The only thing you have to fear, is fear itself.” I live it, and so I ask lots of questions seeking answers and
solutions. We, as a congregation of Christ’ disciples need to ask the questions, share possible solutions and work
together to accomplish the tasks ahead of us. Be prepared to come and contribute your ideas, hopes and energy.
This fall will be busy, perhaps more to the tune of organized confusion, but we will strive to thrive, nor merely
survive.
In Christ, Pi
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π
The Missions Board met on June 4th. After much
discussion money was disbursed to these organizations:
Jesse’s House
Grove Street
NACCC - Center for
Congregational Leadership
MA General Cancer Hospital CDH
Pan American Institute
Seafarer’s Friends
$150.00
100.00
100.00
300.00
100.00
100.00
$ 850.00
From mid-July through August, we are collecting extra funds in aid of those affected by the
Nepal earthquake in April 2015 and the Portland, MI Church & parsonage destroyed by a
tornado in June during the NACCC Annual Meeting. Missions will match those funds.
Special offering envelope is included in this month’s Parish Visitor. Please make checks
payable to FCC, memo Nepal earthquake, Michigan tornado or Both. Thank you! Our next
meeting will be in late September.
Respectfully,
Jean Richardson
Musical news from Nadine
The Doxology we sing every Sunday has an interesting history. Thomas Ken was
called “England’s first hymnist.” He was born in 1637 in London. When his
parents died, his half-sister enrolled him in Winchester College for Boys and he
was later ordained as a minister. Thomas went back to Winchester and, in
encouraging the devotional habits of the boys, wrote three hymns in 1674. This was quite an event,
as English hymns had not yet appeared; only Psalms were sung in public worship. In fact, Thomas
suggested that the hymns be sung, privately, in the morning, bedtime, and at midnight (if they were
insomniacs). All three hymns ended with a common stanza, “Praise God, from Whom all blessings
flow….”which has become the most widely-sung verse in the world.
In 1680, Thomas was appointed chaplain to King Charles II of England, which was a thankless job as
Charles had a variety of mistresses. During the reign of the next king, James II, Thomas, by now a
bishop, was imprisoned in the tower of London for his Protestant convictions. After his release, he
retired to the home of a wealthy friend, where he died in March of 1711. The Doxology was sung at
his funeral.
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Fund Raiser
Update
We, Crafty Ladies, continue to meet Tuesdays at 12:30. We have been busy
working on several projects, including new items for this year. Come and check us
out. Also thank you for being our testers for various dips. This has been most
helpful.
This year’s Sewing Exchange will be September 19; so watch for
opportunities to help on the days leading up to the event as well as on the 19th.
We have already had inquiries from venders wanting tables, so it looks promising.
Next will be jam and jelly making starting in October. Come join the fun. We
still need fruit, wax and sugar. The pectin has been donated, so we should be good
this year.
As we enter our busy event season over the next several months with the
Bazaar on November 14, we will be repeatedly asking for your ongoing support to
share your time, talent and treasure as we work to support the Florence
Congregational Church.
Thank you,
The Weekly Crafty Ladies
A Pint, a Burger, and Pi (Pastor Irv)
Fun, fellowship, food and great friends. The next “A Pint, Burger and Pi”
fellowship gathering at Brewmasters Tavern in Williamsburg is on August 4th at 6:00pm.
Church members are encouraged to invite friends and family. It is such a joy to watch and listen to folks
engage in telling stories of life – comparing, remembering days gone by and sharing the news of the day.
Many commented on the night noting that they were pleased to have the opportunity to relax and have fun. If
you know you want to come, we would appreciate a call to the office just to help in the set-up of the room by
their staff. Drop-in’s are always encouraged!
584-1325 or 413-320-6955
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From the
Blood pressure and you – what you don’t know!
What is Hypertension – high blood pressure?
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It is called the silent killer because 30% of people often don’t know they have the
disease.
Systolic pressure the top number of your reading reflects the pressure in your
arteries with each heartbeat.
Diastolic pressure is the bottom number and reflects the pressure in your arteries
between beats (when the heart is at rest).
Over time, high blood pressure can damage your arteries and other organs
What you can do TODAY!
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Have your blood pressure checked at least yearly.
If your pressure is high, see your healthcare provider
Exercise for 30 minutes a day
Stop smoking
Eat 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
Avoid salt.
Find ways to reduce stress.
Have you noticed a reoccurring theme to my healthy articles? Most include reference to
exercise, smoking, eating and stress habits. So focus on these areas and you will be on your
way to a healthier life style.
Enjoy the summer
God’s blessings
FCC is participating in Operation Christmas Child again this year!
What goes into a child’s box?
A “Wow” Item – Start with a medium size item that will capture the
child’s attention the instant he or she opens the box.
Ideas include: Stuffed animal, Toys (puppets, trucks, etc.), Doll (baby, Barbie, etc.), Musical
instrument, Outfit, Shoes, small tools, such as a measuring tape.
Toys: Include items such as toy cars, yo-yos, jump ropes, balls, toys that light up and make
noise (with extra batteries), etc.
School Supplies: pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, markers, paper, solar calculators,
coloring and picture books, etc.
Non-liquid Hygiene Items: toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc.
Accessories: T-shirts, socks, hats, sunglasses, hair clips, jewelry, watches, flashlights (with
extra batteries), etc.
Crafts: Make your own items such as hair bows, finger puppets, and friendship bracelets.
Age and Gender Categories: Girls 2-4, Girls 5-9, Girls 10-14, Boys 2-4, Boys 5-9, Boys 10-14.
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Please remember these people in your
Prayers and consider calling or
sending a card this month.
Bob Bates
710 No. Farms Road, Florence, MA 01062
Betty Lamoureux
60 Highland Ave., Easthampton, MA 01027
Art Colepaugh – 70 Forest Glen Dr.
Florence, MA 01062
Rosel LaPalme, Apt 110
7 Nash Hill PL, Williamsburg, MA 01053
Marion Foster, 29 Rust Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Keith & Sue Moors
9 Harold Street, Florence MA 01062
Suzy Hoyt - c/o Wingate @ Worchester
59 Acton Street, Rm 201-2
Worcester, Massachusetts 01604
Edna Murphy - Rm 214 - Hadley at Elaine,
20 N. Maple St., Hadley MA 01035
Rev. Dr. Arvel M. Steece
49 Dragon Hill Rd, Shelburne MA 01370
Sharon Kellstrom (Marion Foster’s daughter)
9794 Westchester Dr., Omaha NE 68114-3875
Reminder: Please notify the church office if you have a friend or family member who would like a visit
from an FCC representative (Pastor Irv, Diane, etc.). Thank you
The Parish Visitor is a publication of the Florence Congregational Church, issued monthly.
To submit articles for future issues, please contact the church office at 584-1325,
Tues - Thurs 9am-1pm or email the church at florencechurch@comcast.net
Church Record
Deaths
Anne Gay (Singleton) Schuler
Alwyn Fitzgerald
Helen Marney O’Grady
Jo-Anne Moynihan
Olga E. Perez
March 6, 2015
May 27, 2015
June 3, 2015
June 30, 2015
July 10, 2015
Prayer Group
We always welcome a follow up for concerns expressed in worship service. Please let Pastor Irv
know if the situation has changed. We meet weekly on Thursdays at 1:00 pm.
Lectionary Readings
August 2015
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2nd
Exodus 16:2-4, 9-15
Psalm 78:23-29
Ephesians 4:1-16
John 6:24-35
16th
Proverbs 9:1-6
Psalm 111
Ephesians 5:15-20
23rd
Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18
Psalm 84
Ephesians 6:10-20
9th
1 Kings 19:4-8
Psalm 34:1-8
Ephesians 4:25 - 5:2
John 6:35, 41-51
30th
Song of Solomon 2:8-13
Psalm 15
James 1:17-27
Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
Friendship Circle
2015-2016 Fall Kick –Off Event
This is a Potluck Supper on September 9th in the Parish Hall.
We will eat at 6pm sharp so that all who want to be home by
dark can be. Come early … ovens will be available
from 5:00pm on. All are welcome; guests are encouraged
to join in! Reservations are requested by September 6th.
Questions? Call Jean Richardson at 529-9593.
Thank-you.
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08/26 Gretchen Gould
08/29 Lorraine Bates
08/01 Edward Stanley
08/05 Brenda Gammon
08/05 Kiah Crowley (Wayne Peereboom’s dau.)
08/06 Edwin Cady
08/08 Justin Uhlig
08/08 Jacob Dibrindisi
08/11 Gerald Boulanger
08/14 Norma Burnett
08/15 Mary Kenny
08/15 James Russell
08/15 Susan Lenkowski
08/16 Richard Durant
08/20 Colleen Culver
08/23 Carolynn Nuttelman
08/24 Lois DeLisle
Coffee Buns
08/02
08/07
08/13
08/13
08/14
08/15
George & Judith Stott-Griess
Ralph & Ann Carpenter
Christopher & Christine Adams
Armand & Rosel Lapalme
Douglas & Kerry Loux
Robert & Lorraine Bates
From: Sandy Gammon
¾ cup milk, scalded
½ cup shortening
½ cup sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 well beaten eggs
4 ½ cups flour (about)
2 pkgs. dry yeast
¼ cup warm water
Melted oleo (about
2Tbsp.)
½ cups sugar
4 tsp. cinnamon
Scald milk, stirring occasionally so it heats evenly. Soften yeast in warm water. Combine milk,
shortening, ½ cup sugar and salt. Cool to lukewarm. Add softened yeast mixture; add eggs,
then the flour. Mix to a soft dough.
Knead on floured board until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, turning once to grease
surface. Cover with damp cloth. Let rise until double; punch down; let set for 10 minutes.
Divide dough in half and roll to ¼ inch thick. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with
cinnamon and sugar mixture. Roll as for a jelly roll. Cut in 1 inch slices. Place on greased
cookie sheet or pan; cover and rise until double.
Bake at 350 for about 15 minutes
When cooled, drizzle with glaze made from confectionary sugar and water.
The summer address for Sarah and Rebecca Flinker until August 21st:
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Sarah & Rebecca Flinker – Staff
Camp Fowler & Retreat Center
12164
P.O. Box 131
Speculator, NY
We are excited and
looking forward to
purchasing new hymnals published by the National
Association of Congregational Christian Churches.
This new hymnal, “Hymns for a Pilgrim People” has
selections that include hymns written by Rev. Dr. Arvel M. Steece, Nancy
McNulty and Helen Gierke. Samples of this music have been used as inserts in
several past Sunday bulletins. It encompasses an excellent cross section of
favorite hymns from both the current Blue and Pilgrim hymnals as well as new
more current music. Each hymnal cost $20.00, we have funds for appox. 50
already. We are looking for an additional 20 books.
If you would like to purchase one or more in memory/honor of someone,
please complete the attached order form and return to the church with payment.
Please Print Carefully – Thank-you:
Name: ____________________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
IMO/Honor of: ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
Payment amount: ___________________________________________________
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Prayer — it's in our genes
I don’t think prayer is merely a sociological phenomenon. I don’t think it’s something we do just
to fit into a community or when we’ve exhausted all other options. I think it’s hardwired into our
spiritual DNA. God is the inevitability of humanity’s search for true meaning.
—Jared Brock, A Year of Living Prayerfully
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