* * *
Worship News
This summer, members have their choice of worship times and worship styles. Worship will be
held at 8:30am and 10:30am every Sunday during the months of July and August.
There will be no changes to the 10:30am service. It will continue to remain the same. The
Sacrament of Holy Communion will still be served on the 1st Sunday of the month. Most
Sundays, members will use their talents and provide us with special music. And, the service will
always be held indoors.
A contemporary worship service will be offered at 8:30am on July 6th, 13th and 27th. The
service will feature recorded contemporary music and on the 6th, communion will be served at
this service as well.
Whether you prefer an early service or late service. Whether you prefer a traditional service or
a contemporary service. Hopefully, everyone will enjoy worshiping outdoors, surrounded by the
beauty of God’s creation at 8:30am on July 20th. Of course, in the case of inclement weather the
service will move inside. Regardless of weather, a traditional service will be held indoors that
morning at 10:30am.
There are lots of options this summer for us to gather and give God thanks and praise. It is the
hope of everyone involved in the planning of worship that you will be able to attend some or all
of these services and that you’ll find them meaningful and spiritually fulfilling.
* * *
Spring Conference Meeting
The spring meeting of the Pennsylvania Southeast Conference of the United Church of Christ
was held Saturday, May 31st at Zion Blue Mountain UCC in Strausstown.
Following a video presentation highlighting the various ministries that conference churches are
involved in (which included a picture from our Feed the Hungry project, a picture from our book
drive and a picture from the Sch. Haven Crop Walk), the first part of a workshop session titled,
“Vibrant Ministry, When Money is Low and People are Scarce” was held.
The business portion of the meeting began with the Treasurer’s Report and an update on the
progress of the sale of the Mensch Mill property. This was followed by the introduction of the
Conference Minister Candidate.
urer’s Report and an update on the progress of the sale of the Mensch Mill property. This was
followed by the introduction of the Conference Minister Candidate.
Following a period of questions and answers, the Rev. William Paul Worley was elected
Conference Minister by a vote of 254-3, with 4 abstentions.
After lunch, Revs. Michael Baal and Rebecca Brenner presented a resolution regarding
Conference Staff hiring procedures. The resolution failed to pass by a vote of 71-107 with 23
abstaining.
The meeting concluded with a service of worship and communion and part two of the
workshop.
Pastor Brad, Ray Riegel, Richard Bates and Lorraine Phillips attended the meeting please feel
free to speak with any of them if you have any questions.
* * *
Hymn History
In our Gospel lesson on July 6th, Jesus says, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are
carrying heavy burdens and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for
I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and
my burden is light.”
During his lifetime, Joseph Scriven endured a terrible amount of emotional pain and suffering
and found Jesus’ yoke to be light and restful. Therefore, his hymn, “What a Friend We Have in
Jesus,” will be our sermonic hymn that morning.
At age 25, Scriven’s fiancée drowned in a lake on the day before their wedding. Ten years
later, as his mother was facing a crisis, he penned the lyrics of the hymn in a poem to her.
Unbeknownst to him, his mother gave a copy of that poem to publisher who set the poem to
music and quickly it became a popular hymn.
Meanwhile, Scriven fell in love again, only to have tragedy strike a second time, as his fiancée
died of tuberculosis before their wedding.
Despite all this, Scriven continued to minister to widows and the poor, until his death in
October of 1896.
The information for this article came from the book, “Then Sings My Soul,” by Robert J.
Morgan.
* * *
Soup Kitchen
Ministry
We will be helping at the
Pottsville Soup Kitchen
on Thursday, July 10
from 4:30 – 7:00 PM.
If you would like to help,
speak to Rae Ann Borger.
Schuylkill Haven
Food Pantry
Needs For July:
Grape Jelly & Peanut Butter
We will be helping at the
Sch. Haven Food Pantry on
Mon., July 14 at 8:30 AM,
and also on Fri., July 18 at 1 PM.
* * *
Communion Offerings
July is designated to the
Sch. Association Locust Lake Chaplaincy Ministry.
August is designated to
a local Pastor in need.
* * *
FRC Dining Out Days
Friedensburg Country Restaurant
Mon., July 7 & Tues., July 8
All day-each day,
a percentage of all profits will
be donated toward the building
improvements here at St. Paul’s.
Tickets are available on the table in the back of the sanctuary.
If you have any questions,
please speak to Deb Clauser.
Pastor Brad Will Be Out of the Office
the week of July 28-Aug. 1.
He will again serve at the
Hartman Center Camp.
* * *
Kelly Vacation Days
Kelly will be out of the church office on Tuesday, July 22 and
Wed., July 23.
(As per normal working hours, she will not be in
on Monday, July 21!)
* * *
Sunday School Meeting
A meeting of the Sunday School teachers and officers will be held on Tuesday, July 1 at 7:00
PM. Everyone is encouraged to attend, and ideas are always welcomed.
* * *
Bible Study
Bible Study will be held on Thursday, July 3, 17, and 24 at 7:00 PM. It will also be held on
Thursday, July 10 at 12 noon. Please speak to Pastor Brad.
Consistory Notes
The regular meeting of the Consistory of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ was held on May
20, 2014. The meeting was called to order by Vice President Eric Reber.

The left-over money that had been donated to defray the cost of the Lenten suppers was
applied to the Seder meal.
PASTORAL REPORT
 Since the VBS closing program is June 22 and we are not holding Sunday School, the SS
requests that loose plate collected during worship be directed to the SS.
 Motion was made to direct loose plate offering on June 22 to the Sunday School. All were in
favor.
 Brad plans to offer contemporary worship services beginning at 8:30 a.m. June 29. Those
services will be held outdoors on July 20 and Aug. 17. If at least 25 or 30 people show up
consistently, he will ask to continue it in the fall. Consistory told Brad it supports and
encourages the addition of a contemporary service.
 Brad plans to take vacation May 27-29. Rev. Janet Lewis will cover pastoral emergencies.
 The spring PSEC meeting will be held at Zion Blue Mountain in Strausstown on May 31.
Delegates are encouraged to attend and visitors are welcome.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
 Clint Clauser is changing the filter in the attic.
 Clint said the water treatment system is using a lot of salt. He will add salt as needed.
SEXTON
 Quarterly water tests completed and were fine.
 The personnel committee will review the job description of the sexton to see whether it
should be expanded or remain the same.
STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE
 Craig Borger hopes to get an update on the number of items donated to the food pantry as
part of our yearlong drive and will update the congregation.
OLD BUSINESS
 Ray Riegel said a replacement part for the malfunctioning water fountain would cost $179.96
plus shipping. Ray recommended disconnecting the fountain and eventually removing it.
Consistory agreed.
 Craig noted that some of the windows look quite dirty even after we got them washed. That’s
because some of the windows have plastic or plexi coverings on them and the dirt is trapped
between the windows and the coverings. Mike Rubinkam will check the windows on Sunday.
 Craig got quotes from R&J Trophies for a plaque for Donald and Betty Clauser. They range
from $60 to $90 depending on the size (less a 20 percent discount), plus 10 cents per letter or
$29.10 for engraving. Listing all of the items the church paid for out of the Clauser request
would cost $156.80. We agreed it’s not necessary to list the items individually.
 Motion was made to purchase a plaque in honor of Donald and Betty Clauser in an amount
not to exceed $150. The plaque shall read: “IN GRATITUDE St. Paul’s UCC recognizes and
appreciates the extraordinary generosity of longtime members DONALD AND BETTY
CLAUSER, whose sacrificial bequest enabled the church to make many needed
improvements and repairs, and funded organizations that are spreading the message of God’s
abounding love locally and around the world.” All were in favor.
 Brian Clauser said he and Jason Kline will inspect the church bell.
 The heat tape has been turned off.
 We cleaned the floors on May 8. We may want to strip the wax and redo it in the fall.
We discussed the prior week’s informal meeting to talk about our budget problems. Brad noted it
has been a long time since the deacons got together to discuss ways to encourage good
stewardship. It was decided the deacons/stewardship committee will meet June 4. Mike will
write a mid-year thank-you/appeal letter for review by the committee at that time, with the goal
of mailing it to the congregation soon after that.
Craig said the air conditioning is a work in progress, and he and his dad are trying to work out
the kinks. He asked consistory to report any complaints to them. It’s helpful to know where the
complaining person sits, because where you sit has an impact on how you experience the A/C.
Craig said the units can be adjusted for temperature, speed, and direction of air flow. Ray noted
that it’s impossible to please 100 percent of the people with regard to a building’s climate
control.
Microsoft will no longer support Windows XP, making Kelly’s computer vulnerable. Craig
estimates we can get a new computer for $450 and a refurbished machine for $250 or $305. Ray
recommended buyusedpcs.com in Kutztown, which sells refurbished computers.
Motion was made to purchase a computer using money from the capital improvements fund. All
were in favor.
July communion offering will be given to the Locust Lake ministry.
The meeting closed with the Mizpah Benediction.
Respectfully submitted,
Mike Rubinkam, Secretary
* * *
CONSISTORY MINUTES – June 8, 2014
ST. PAUL’S UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
A special meeting of the Consistory of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ was held on June 8,
2014. The following people were in attendance: Robert Reed, Lorraine Phillips, Helen
Michelson, Tom Nagle, Mike Rubinkam, Clint Clauser and Ray Riegel.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the mid-year thank you/appeal letter and the ant
problem.
Motion was made to mail the mid-year/thank you/appeal letter to the congregation along with an
offering envelope. All were in favor.
Consistory decided that the trustees will attempt to remedy the ant problem instead of hiring
Ehrlich to treat for them.
The meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted, Mike Rubinkam, Secretary
* * *
Joseph is Coming and We’re Going
Sign-up to join your sisters and brothers in Christ for a matinee performance of the musical,
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” on Saturday, September 27th at 2pm at
the Hershey Theatre.
Tickets are $58 for an adult and $20 for the first 25 children and youth under the age of 18.
We will sit together as a group, however transportation will not be provided.
A sign-up sheet will be posted in the hallway. The deadline to sign-up and full payment is
due by Sunday, August 10th. Please contact
Pastor Brad if you have any questions.
One of the most enduring shows of all time, Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber’s JOSEPH
AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT is the irresistible family musical about
the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son.
Directed and choreographed by Tony® Award-winner Andy Blankenbuehler, this new
production will feature Broadway/television star Diana DeGarmo (Hairspray, Hair) as The
Narrator and Broadway star Ace Young (Grease, Hair) as Joseph.
Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothersand the coat of many colors, this
magical musical is full ofsongs includingThose Canaan Days, Any DreamDo and Close Every
Door.Book your tickets and beof the magic!
Saturday, July 12th
Beginning at 4:00 PM, the SS will be hosting a church family picnic in the church picnic grove.
We will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and having ice cream sundaes for dessert. There
will be games for ALL ages: Bingo, volleyball, a bounce house for the kids! And, a movie with
popcorn to end the evening. We will have a sign-up sheet posted on the wall outside the church
secretary’s office door. If you could sign up so we have an idea of how much food to buy it
would be great. But, if you have a last minute opening on your calendar or your plans change, we
sure want you to come anyway!!!! There’s ALWAYS more than enough to go around!
* * *
Confirmation Sign-ups
It’s time to register for the Confirmation classes.
The Confirmation program at St. Paul’s is a 2 year program and beginning this year, a new
class will start every other year.
Eligible Confirmands who are at least 12 years of age by Sept.1st and/or are entering at least
7th grade, and have completed at least 1 full year of Sunday School classes are encouraged to
sign-up.
Anyone wishing to sign-up for 1st year confirmation classes is asked to complete a registration
form and return it to the church office no later than Sunday, August 3rd.
Confirmands must also identify someone to serve as their mentor. Confirmation mentors must
be either, persons currently serving on Consistory, a member of the Spiritual Council or an active
member that is involved in a leadership or teaching role at St. Paul’s. The Confirmand’s mentor
may not be his/her parent, grandparent or sibling and all mentors must be approved by the
Pastor.
1st year Confirmation Classes begin on Sunday, September 7 at 9:15am, with a
Confirmand, parent and mentor meeting. At this time, each confirmand will be instructed on
the requirements and expectations for Confirmation. At the conclusion of the meeting, the
Confirmands, their parents and mentors will be asked to sign the Confirmation Covenant. A
blessing of the Confirmands will follow, during the morning worship service on September 7.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to speak to Pastor Brad, Lori Moyer or
Confirmation Coordinator Verna Ebling.
* * *
Registration Form for the
2016 Confirmation Class (1st Year)
Name: ________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________
_______________________________________
Home Phone #: _________________________________
Cell Phone #: ______________________________
Email: _________________________________________
Parents: ________________________________________
Grade Entering in Fall: ____________
Birth Date: ________________________________
Baptismal Date: ____________________________
Baptismal Church: _______________________________
Mentor: ________________________________________
Youth Fellowship
Planning Meeting
We will gather on the Sunday, July 13 at 5:00 PM to plan events for the Youth Fellowship
group.
Everyone is invited to come-out and share your ideas, and offer your time, as we plan our
schedule for this vital ministry for the upcoming year.
Food will be provided!
Please speak to Pastor Brad for more information.
* * *
Cisors’
Mondays at 6:30 PM and
Thursdays at 6:00 PM
Free and open to everyone.
* * *
Quilters
The Quilters are still quilting!! Stop in on a Tuesday morning from 9:00 AM to about 12 noon
and chat, have a snack, or quilt.
* * *
“Love is a fruit in season
at all times, and
within reach of every hand.”
—Mother Teresa
Help Still NeededMowing Church Property
Volunteers are still needed to mow the church lawn in September and October. A sign-up sheet
is in the back of the sanctuary. See Mike Rubinkam if you have any questions.
* * *
Save the Date:
Sat., Sept. 13 (6 to 9 PM) &
Sunday Sept. 14 (2 to 5).
The Senior Choir will be hosting a Musical
Get-Together to benefit the Sch. Haven Food Pantry. Where: Home of Brian &
Cindy Clauser – due to the location of the player piano.
* * *
August Newsletter Deadline in July
Please note that the August Newsletter deadline will be Tuesday, July 15 (it’s always the 15th,
but some months I can be flexible.) and I cannot be flexible this time! I will be out of the office
July 21-23, and the newsletter needs to be typed, printed, assembled and mailed out prior to this.
Thank you for your understanding. Kelly
Letter from PSEC Acting Conference Minister,
Rev. Wanda D. Craner Dated June 17, 2014
(sent as Special eNews email on June 17)
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I write to you today experiencing a wide range of feelings. The Pennsylvania Southeast
Conference Consistory has just voted to enter into a tentative agreement of sale of our Mensch
Mill properties, pending a due diligence period for the buyer. The Conference Consistory as well
as members of the Budget and Finance Committee; our Realtor, Mr. John Roedig; Mr. Robert
Fogal; and Ms. Tammie Wisniewski, PSEC Financial Manager, gathered to review the
agreement in detail - asking questions and discussing concerns - and prayerfully coming to a
decision which we are hopeful will serve the future ministry and mission of the Conference. We
will make an announcement as soon as the due diligence period is completed and the final sale
papers are signed. We anticipate making that announcement within the next few months.
I am grateful for the seriousness and care that the Conference Consistory, Conference staff, and
all involved demonstrated while working through the sale process. We all agreed that the
decision we made was the decision that was needed. But I believe each of us felt some tinges of
sadness and grief, too. These feelings were accompanied by a feeling of relief and a sense that
we are moving into a new era of ministry that will be broader and will continue to be faithful to
the Spirit of God's movement among us. The good news is that if all unfolds as it is hoped, the
spiritual retreat aspect of Mensch Mill will continue in ways different, yet connected to the past.
In Christ's peace,
Rev. Wanda D. Craner,
Acting Conference Minister, PSEC
* * *
“Let us disappear into praising. Nothing belongs to us.”
—Rainer Maria Rilke
“Prayer is not a spare wheel that you pull out when in trouble; it is a steering
wheel that directs us in the
right path throughout life.”
—Anonymous
Graduates
High School
Morgan Bates
Morgan is the daughter of Rich and Jennifer Zimmerman-Bates. She graduated from the Sch.
Haven Area School District where she was enrolled in College Prep/ Honors and AP level
courses. Morgan was involved in the following school activities: Marching Band, Concert Band,
Chorus, Musical, Student Council, Biology Club, Veteran’s Day Committee, Debate Club, Pep
Club, School Newspaper and the Community Action Team.
Morgan is involved here at St. Paul’s in the Church Choir, Minstrels, Young Adults, and
Sunday School Youth Superintendent. She previously served as a Deacon on the Consistory, and
a Youth Conference Delegate. She also served as a Delegate to General Synod 29.
Morgan also volunteers at the Pottsville Soup Kitchen and at the Schuylkill Medical Center.
Morgan received the following special honors: National Honor Society, Quill and Scroll
Society, County Band and Chorus, District 10 Band and Chorus, Region V Band and Chorus,
All-State Concert Band, and U.S. Army All-American Marching Band.
Morgan will attend Dickinson College to study Political Science or Law and Policy, and
continue making music.
Sarah Wolfe
Sarah is the daughter of Chuck and Robin Ferguson. She graduated from the Blue Mountain
School District where she was
enrolled in General Academic,
Vocational Nursing and Virtual Academy. Sarah was involved in Cheerleading and Gymnastics.
She plans on pursuing a career in the medical field. Sarah is married to Michael Wolfe and is the
mother of Brantley.
Emily Mattes
Emily is the daughter of Bill and Dawn Mattes. She graduated from the Middletown Area High
School where she was enrolled in College Prep/ Health and Science Pathway.
Emily was involved in Varsity Softball for 4 years, Varsity Volleyball for 4 years, Link Crew,
Mini-Thon and the Special Olympics.
Emily received the following special honors: Mid-Penn Conference All Star Softball and
Volleyball.
Emily is also involved in the Young Adult group here at St. Paul’s
Emily is also involved with the Young Adult group here at St. Paul’s.
Her plans are to attend Penn State Abington for 2 years, and then finish at Penn State Main
Campus for the last 2 years. Emily will be majoring in Athletic Training.
* * *
College
Lauren Clauser
Lauren Clauser is the daughter of Robert and Dana Clauser. She attended Westminster College
in New Wilmington, PA, where she majored in Music Education and received a Bachelor of
Music.
During her time at Westminster, Lauren was involved in Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble,
Flute Choir, Concert Choir, Orchestra, Sigma Kappa Sorority, PA Collegiate Music, Educator’s
Association and was a Campus Tour Guide.
Lauren received the following honors: Pi Sigma Pi Honor Society and the Kappa Delta Pi
Education Honor Society.
Her future plans are to teach music.
Jacob Cotroneo
Jacob Cotroneo is the son of Sheryl Cotroneo. He attended
Alvernia University in Reading where he majored in Sports Management with a minor in
Communications. He received a BS in Sports Management.
Jacob has accepted a position with Boscov’s, Reading into their Executive Trainee/ Buyer
Program.
Jacob currently resides in Wyomissing, PA.
Dustin Deibert
Dustin is the son of Dave and Debbie Deibert. He attended Lebanon Valley College where he
majored in Physical Therapy. Dustin received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT), which is
a 6 year program.
During his time at LVC, Dustin was involved in Clinical Affiliations which were completed in
Milford, DE, Symrna, DE, Schuylkill Medical Center, Phoebe Berks and Broad Mountain
Nursing and Rehab Center in Frackville.
Dustin received the following honors: he was invited to present at the “Inquiry 2014 Student
Symposium of Research” and he maintained a 3.67/4.0 GPA.
Dustin is also involved in the following activities: LVC’s C.U.R.E; Free PT Clinic Volunteer
where he serves the underinsured population of Lebanon City; Body Armour Volunteer, which is
a program designed for proper body movement and conditioning for LVC athletes; and, he is a
member of the American Physical Therapy Association.
Dustin plans to take the Physical Therapy Board in July, and then work in a short-term Rehab
setting once he obtains his license.
Dustin enjoys working with the geriatric population.
Congrats to all our
graduates!!!
* * *
'As you did it to one
of the least of these ...'
In his book God’s Politics, theologian Jim Wallis, who frequently speaks on matters of faith and
society, tells of an old Pentecostal mentor of his named Mary Glover. He says he learned more
about Jesus’ relationship with the poor from her than he did in seminary.
For instance, Jim recounts, every time they were about to open the doors to a neighborhood food
line in Washington, D.C., Mary prayed, “Lord, we know that you’ll be comin’ through this line
today, so, Lord, help us treat you well.
“Enjoy
Creation”
I hope you have taken the time to enjoy God’s beautiful creation. Yes, we had a lot of rain,
cooler temps, strange, but beautiful clouds and many off season occurances this Spring. It will be
summertime by the time you read this article, a time to get out, picnic, walk, ride, enjoy the
sights and sounds of relaxed, fun-filled days of vacations. I hope you take time to look at the
greenery God has created for us– lush grass, full leaved trees; then, the colors of abundant
flowers. We have had many and vivid colored rainbows– a reminder of God’s promises.
We hurry and scurry often, and miss what God provides for us. Take some time– sit quietly, look
around you and enjoy. The song we sing says, “There is beauty all around”- take time to enjoy.
Our church grounds are beautiful thanks to our volunteers and elves that weed (Pastor), our
volunteers who mow the lawn, etc. It’s always cooler and quieter here on the hill– come sit on a
bench, enjoy the scenery, meditate or just be still and know God.
See you here!
“Paulie”
Thanks:
-to Bill and Bonnie Reber for sponsoring the shut-in mailing for July
-to Bonnie Reber, Shirley Reber and Ardith Moyer for putting together the June NL
-to Bill Reber for mowing/ weedwacking the church lawn during the month of June
-St.
Paul's Summer Hill UCC,
I would like to say thank you for the graduation card and gift.thoughtful and generosity is much
appreciated.that I finally graduated, maybe I will have time to do some leisure reading
instead of always for my physical therapy courses.now I am in the process of studying for my
board exam that I take at the end of July.you all are doing well!
Thanks again and God Bless!
Dustin Deibert
-Dear St. Paul’s Family,
Thank you for all the prayers, cards, phone calls and good wishes during my recovery from
surgery. Your support and encouragement are truly appreciated.
May God bless you all.
Helen Michelson
-Dear Members of St. Paul’s,
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers upon the death of my mother. Thank you for all the
cards I received.
Deb and Rich Clauser
-Dear Members of St. Paul’s,
Thank you very much for the graduation gift and remembering me on a very special occasion.
Your love and support over the years will carry over into the next stage in my life.
Love,
Emily Mattes
-Dear Pastor Brad, Michelle and Members,
I can’t thank you enough for all your prayers, cards, flowers and words of encouragement upon
my recent diagnosis. John and I both feel quite blessed to be a part of such a loving and caring
church family. The will continues to stay strong knowing that better days
will come with continued prayers and God’s grace.
Blessings,
Beth and John Satterwhite
-to Pastor Brad for “doing” and “going” about things above and
beyond his job description.—He shows us how to practice what we preach!
-to Tamara Nagle and all who volunteered and donated to help make VBS a great success.
-Dear Members of St. Paul’s and Pastor Brad,
Thank you to everyone for your prayers, concerns, cards and telephone calls.
And, thank you Pastor Brad for your hospital visits, telephone calls, prayers and Communion.
I appreciated the thoughtfulness.
Cathy Krause
* * *
SWiC's MOST WANTED List
We are in need of the following items for SWiC’s emergency shelter:
· Brush and combs,
· Hair ties, bows, and barrettes,
· Sunscreen for women and children.
If you are able to donate any of the above needed items, please call SWiC’s office at
570.622.3991 or email swicagency@comcast.net to make arrangements. Thank you!
Friends Helping Friends
for SWiC
“Friends Helping Friends,” hosted by Boscov’s Department Store, is an opportunity for local
non-profits to raise funds by selling Boscov’s shopping passes. The pass, which costs $5, allows
customers to receive 25% off of their entire Boscov’s purchase on October 21, 2014.
SWiC is selling passes prior to the event. All money raised goes directly to support SWiC’s
services for victims of domestic violence in our area. For more information, please contact
Amber at SWiC by phone (570.622.3991) or email (swicmedadv@comcast.net).
SWiC will be represented
at the following
upcoming events:
July 1-30 – Stuff the Bus, organized by Schuylkill United Way, Fairlane Village and Cressona
malls. Vans will be available for shoppers to drop off donations
of school supplies, such as pencils, paper, notebooks, crayons,
markers, highlighters, etc. Many children SWiC serves receive backpacks packed with supplies
before start of school year.
We will celebrate Baptismal Anniversaries on Sunday, July 13 at 10:30 AM.
* * *
St. James, the Apostle
James, son of Zebedee, the first of Jesus’ disciples to be martyred, is commemorated on July 25.
Killed by sword on the order of King Herod around 44 A.D., James is the only apostle whose
martyrdom is recorded in Scripture. Scholars believe he wasn’t the author of the New Testament
book of James.
Jesus called James, James’ brother John and their fishing partner Simon to take up “catching
people” (Luke 5:1-11). They soon formed Jesus’ inner circle, the only disciples Jesus took along
when he was transfigured, when he prayed in Gethsemane and at certain other times.
Jesus dubbed James and John “Sons of Thunder”; did they perhaps have anger-management
problems? And the brothers asked Jesus for special status in his coming kingdom, winning
themselves no favor with the other disciples. But James’ imperfections remind us that God
always chooses flawed people — including you and me — to carry out his work!
The Bride of Christ
As all brides do, Joni Eareckson Tada wanted her wedding day to be perfect. Yet the longtime
quadriplegic wheeled over the hem of her gown, leaving a greasy tire mark. To top it off, her
daisies were off-center, and she couldn’t rearrange them herself.
“She wasn’t a picture-perfect bride by any stretch,” according to Joni and Ken: An Untold Love
Story (Zondervan). Yet as soon as Joni saw her beloved craning his neck to get a glimpse of her,
all the worrying and self-loathing washed away. In fact, she wanted to get out of her chair and
run to him. “In his eyes, she was the pure and perfect bride. His bride.”
Joni and Ken write: “This is how it will be when we see Jesus. Overcome with longing.
Overtaken with joy. We’ll catch a glimpse of him and want to run to him. Right out of this life
and into the next one.”
* * *
“There are two freedoms — the false, where a man
is free to do what he likes; the true, where he is free
to do what he ought.”
—Charles Kingsley
Words From FDR
We still remain true to the faith of our fathers who established religious liberty when the nation
began. We must remember, too, that our forebears in every generation, and wherever they
established their homes, made prompt and generous provision for the institutions of religion. We
must continue their steadfast reliance upon the providence of God.
No greater blessing could come to our land today than a revival of the spirit of religion. I doubt if
there is any problem in the world today — social, political or economic — that would not find
happy solution if approached in the spirit of the Sermon on the Mount.
—Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1938
* * *
Living for Christ
Missionary Sadhu Sundar Singh (1889-1929), a formative figure in the development of the
Christian church in India, was often arrested and beaten for his beliefs. As he trekked across the
frontier of Tibet, he earned the nickname “the apostle with the bleeding feet.”
Two of his quotes shed light on the dedication — and reward — of living for Jesus:
• “I am not worthy to follow in the steps of my Lord but, like him, I want no home, no
possessions. Like him I will belong to the road, sharing the suffering of my people, eating with
those who will give me shelter, and telling all men of the love of God.”
• “It is easy to die for Christ. It is hard to live for him. Dying takes only an hour or two, but to
live for Christ means to die daily. Only during the few years of this life are we given the
privilege of serving each other and Christ …. We shall have heaven forever, but only a short
time for service here, and therefore must not waste the opportunity.”
* * *
A Great Purpose
There is no circumstance, no trouble, no testing, that can ever touch me until, first of all, it has
gone past God and past Christ, right through to me. If it has come that far, it has come with a
great purpose, which I may not understand at the moment. But I refuse to become panicky, as I
lift up my eyes to him and accept it as coming from the throne of God for some great purpose of
blessing to my own heart.
—Alan Redpath
Someone 'With
Skin On'
My 3-year-old nephew was having a hard time falling asleep at Grandma’s house, so my mom
lay down beside him for a while. As she started to ease out of the room, his eyes flew open.
“You’re safe,” she reminded him. “Jesus is always with you.”
“I know, Grandma,” he protested, “but I want someone with skin on!”
That reminded me of a quote by theologian Frederick Buechner: “Compassion is the sometimes
fatal capacity for feeling what it is like to live inside somebody else’s skin.” God came to us as
Jesus — someone “with skin on” — so we would know he understands what it’s like to live
inside our skin. Now as Jesus’ body in the world, we’re often called on to be someone “with skin
on” to others. Indeed, we’re to show them such compassion that we could just as well be wearing
their skin.
—Heidi Mann
* * *
“Ah, summer, what power
you have to make us
suffer and like it.”
—Russell Baker
Christian Symbol
River
In the Bible, rivers (and other bodies of water) often represent deliverance, salvation, freedom
and cleansing. The Jordan River is especially prominent: The Israelites crossed it to enter the
Promised Land after God delivered them from slavery, and John baptized Jesus (and many other
people) there. The image of crossing the Jordan River has long been a metaphor for death —
crossing from earthly to heavenly life, from worldly struggles to the bliss of God's kingdom,
from physical ailments to the wholeness of a resurrection body.
* * *
Bible Quiz
What was the first plague God brought upon the Egyptians when Pharaoh refused to let the
Hebrews leave his land?
A. Water turned to blood
B. Dense darkness for three days
C. Death of all Egyptian firstborn males
D. Swarms of gnats
Answer: A (See Exodus 7:20-21 ff.)
* * *
On Prayer
Be not afraid to pray;
to pray is right;
Pray if thou canst with hope,
but ever pray,
Though hope be weak
or sick with long delay;
Pray in the darkness
if there be no light;
And if for any wish
thou daren’t pray
Then pray to God
to cast that wish away.
—E.M. Bounds
* * *
Hot Air
Scientists have discovered that sound travels faster in the summer than in the winter. In hot
summer air, sound travels at 1,266 feet per second. But in cold air, sound travels as slow as 1,066
feet per second. So that means sermons preached in the summer will naturally be shorter, right?
Lectionary Readings
For July:
June 30- July 6
(Fourth Sunday
after Pentecost)
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
Psalm 45:10-17
Song of Solomon 2:8-13
Zechariah 9:9-12
Psalm 145:8-14
Romans 7:15-25a
Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30
July 7- July 13
(Fifth Sunday
after Pentecost)
Genesis 25:19-34
Psalm 119:105-112
Isaiah 55:10-13
Psalm 65:(1-8), 9-13
Romans 8:1-11
Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
July 14 - July 20
(Sixth Sunday
after Pentecost)
Genesis 28:10-19a
Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24
Wisdom of Sol. 12:13, 16-19
Isaiah 44:6-8/ Psalm 86:11-17
Romans 8:12-25
Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
July 21 - July 27
(Seventh Sunday
after Pentecost)
Genesis 29:15-28
Psalm 105:1-11, 45b
Psalm 128
I Kings 3:5-12
Psalm 119:129-136
Romans 8:26-39
Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52
July 28 - August 3
(Eighth Sunday
after Pentecost)
Genesis 32:22-31
Psalm 17:1-7, 15
Isaiah 55:1-5
Psalm 145:8-98, 14-21
Romans 9:1-5
Matthew 14:13-21
* * *
Special Dates
• Canada Day, July 1, 2014
• U.S. Independence Day, July 4, 2014
Bethany Children’s Home in Womelsdorf invite you to celebrate their
151st Anniversary Day
Friday, August 15
11am-10pm
Benefits Bethany’s Mission
to Build Brighter Futures
for Kids and Families.
Live Music, Food, Fireworks, Bouncies, Kid’s Games, Face Painting, Photo Booth,
Plant and Bake Sale, Quilt Raffles, Basket Bash, Wellness Activities, Crafts, Local
Artwork–
something for everyone!!
* * *
Bethany Christian Fellowship in Cressona is looking for bands for a Summer Band Festival
on Saturday, August 9 from 5-9 PM. For more info., see the flyer on the bulletin board in the
narthex.
* * *
A Blood Drive will be held
on Thursday, July 24 from 12:30-5:30pm at Jerusalem
Lutheran Church in
Schuylkill Haven.
Please give if you are able.
Keeping You Posted
'Keeping You e-Posted' is a weekly, coordinated e-zine
of news, featured items,
resources, worship materials, and justice-action items
e-mailed each Tuesday.
Stay up to date:
visit www.ucc.org
and sign-up today.
* * *
You don’t need to wait to read the Communitas on a Sunday morning! Stay up to
date on the conference news by joining the PENNSYLVANIA SOUTHEAST
CONFERENCE mailing list PSEC eCommunications.
Just visit psec.org and join the mailing (email that is!). list.
Jul-Oct Events- Locations Throughout the Conference
Visit psec.org to learn more
Jul 7- Aug 10 - SUMMER CAMP AT NEW GOSHENHOPPEN PARK 1070 Church Rd. in
East Greenville 18041. Learn more: newgoshucc.org or 215-679-2041.
Jul 9-13 - REGIONAL YOUTH EVENT at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove for youth
grades 7-13 and young adults 18-30. Deadline: June 15 at maryeucc.org.
Jul 10-13 - UCC MUSICIANS NATIONAL NETWORK 2014 CONFERENCE “Make a
Joyful Noise” at Congregational UCC in Greensboro, NC. Info: UCCMNN.com.
Jul 14-Aug 1 - ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE at Wentz’s UCC, 3246 Skippack
Pike in Lansdale 19446. Learn more: Lauren Trezza laurengrayce@bellsouth.net.
Jul 27 - WYOMISSING BAND at Phoebe Berks, 1 Reading Dive in Wernersville from 6-8pm.
More info or inclement weather: 610-927-8200.
Aug 3 - GOLF TOURNAMENT sponsored by Maidencreek Church at 1 pm at Richmaiden
Golf Course, 234 Richmaiden Road in Fleetwood 19522. For tickets or more info: 610-926-3907
or maidencreekchurch@frontier.com.
Aug 24 - PRETZEL CITY DIXIELAND JAZZ BAND One of the summer band concerts at
the Village Green at Phoebe Berks, 1 Reading Drive in Wernersville. For more info or inclement
weather, call 610-927-8200.
Sep 27 - ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT sponsored by Epler’s Church in Leesport at 12 pm
at the Rich Maiden Golf Course in Fleetwood. To learn more call Cindy Petro: 610-478-9246.
Oct 7-8 - PARISH SECRETARY SEMINAR Join us the annual
Parish Secretaries' Seminar "Welcome To My World" at the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel
in Lancaster, PA. Register at LutheranCongregationalServices.org and click the link for Parish
Secretaries under the Congregations column. Registrations are due no later than August 23.
Oct 20-24 - COMMUNITY NIGHTS AT SCHOOLS Churches and youth groups are
encouraged to attend assemblies to connect with students and families needing prayer or a local
church. UCC churches sponsoring/helping are: St. Paul's of Douglassville, Community of Exeter,
St. Peter's of West Lawn. For more info, 610 -763-8043 or visit berksbase18.org.
of school supplies, such as pencils, paper, notebooks, crayons, markers, highlighters, etc. Many
children SWiC serves receive backpacks packed with supplies before start of school year.
Friday, July 11 – Conewago, drug & alcohol rehabilitation facility, Pottsville, presentation to
residents.
Tuesday, July 15 – Stuff the Bus Kid’s Day, hosted by Schuylkill United Way and Schuylkill
Mall. Free movie 9:30 a.m. (“Alvin and the Chipmunks 3: Chipwrecked”), free lunch and
activities led by SWiC and other partner agencies. All families are encouraged to bring school
supplies to help Stuff the Bus.
Tuesday, July 22 – Schuylkill County Idol, Schuylkill Mall, SWiC staff presenting at opening.
Friday, August 8 – Conewago, drug & alcohol rehabilitation facility, Pottsville, presentation to
residents.
Friday, August 15 – Barefield Park, Pottsville, Community Kick-Nic, hosted by Schuylkill
United Way, includes food, refreshments, and activities. SWiC will be serving popcorn. Come
and meet us!
American
Independence
John Adams, who became America’s second president, was so elated when the United States
was about to celebrate independence from England that he wrote:
“It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God
Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns,
bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other, from this time
forward, forevermore.”
* * *
Faithful and True
Faith of our fathers, living still,
In spite of dungeon,
fire and sword;
O how our hearts
beat high with joy
Whene’er we hear
that glorious Word!
Faith of our fathers, holy faith!
We will be true to thee till death.
—Frederick W. Faber
July Birthdays
3 - Bonnie Reber
- Jenna Reber
4 - Becky McBreen
7 - Thomas Corondi
10 - Linda Clauser
- Carla Lassandro
11 - Dean Ulsh
- David A. Peiffer Sr.
- Nevin Miller
- Skyler Brown
- Melissa Eckert
13 - Douglas Clauser
14 - Matthew Mengel
- David Zimmerman
- Gavin Guers
15 - Jacob Cotroneo
16 - Debbie Koch
- Dustin Deibert
18 - Pam Clauser
19 - Russell Peiffer
- Nancy Clauser
- Zacharia Itle
- Robert H. Reed
- Colby Ulsh
21 - Arlene Fix
- Aaron Honyara
22 - Wade Sterner
24 - Sharon Shealer
- Thomas Herring
- Kristy Reber
25 - Lori Ulsh
28 - Ida Adams
July Anniversaries
1 - Ronnie and Debbie Koch
- Albert and Debbie Krause
2 - Paul and Louise Clauser
3 - Linda and Dick Clauser
6 - John and Nancy Ulsh
9 - Franklin and Ann Reichert
15 - Jason and Brandi Kline
19 - Helen and John Michelson
21 - Kathy and Ed Kline
22 - Donna and Ken Krammes
25 - Mike and Amy Rubinkam
27 - Sherry and Marcus Erbland
28 - Gary and Evie Keller
- George and Carol Sullivan
30 - Bradley and Katie Miller
* * *
Baptismal Anniversaries
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Mya Nicole, daughter of Clint and Christine Clauser
Logan Tucker, son of Jason and Lori Ulsh
Gaige Graham, son of Bob and Brook Koch- Guers
Jillian Casey, daughter of Stephen and Casey Horvath
Kelly Elizabeth, daughter of Eric and Kristy Reber
Dustin Michael, son of Peter and Trisha Bouchard
Chloe Alyssa Brown, daughter of Kevin and Gina Brown
Julia Ann, daughter of Bobby and Melissa Eckert
Brandon Hunter, son of Dan and Tanya Elo