BUTLER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Non-Profit 5 Bartholdi Avenue Organization Butler, New Jersey 07405-1496 U.S. POSTAGE

PAID FORWARDING SERVICE REQUESTED Bloomingdale, N.J.

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Tabernacle Times

Being United in Christ Teaching the Word Loving and Caring Empowering and Enabling Disciples Responding to Needs UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 5 Bartholdi Avenue, Butler, New Jersey 07405 Church Office (973) 838-2026 Website Address: bumcnj.org Email Address: umcbutler @gmail.com FAX (973) 838-8821 The Reverend Steven Bechtold Lourdes Matos-Santiago Pastor Assistant Pastor

Pat Inglis, Editor

TABERNACLE TIMES

**** DECEMBER 2010 ****

Let’s Talk about . . . Christmas! In less than four weeks, Christmas day will be upon us. We all know what Christmas has become; what we often don’t understand is what Christmas is supposed to be. Only two of the four gospels even have a birth narrative (Matthew and Luke). The two accounts that we do have bear little resemblance to the holiday that we celebrate, or dream of. These two accounts are replete with the harsh realities of life in the time when Jesus was born. This was not a warm and friendly world; the stable with its manger was not a quaint hostel where cows and donkeys stood in silent awe at the birth of the savior. It was cold, dark, and damp, but it may have been a lot better than having a baby in a crowded inn or home. The magi from the east came bearing gifts, but they also recognized the dangerous world of Herod’s kingdom that sent them home by another route and Joseph and Mary to Egypt to avoid the slaughter of their child. The savior was born into the midst of cruelty, oppression, isolation, and fear. But life hasn’t changed that much when we look at our global picture. As much as we want to turn Christmas into a birthday party for Jesus, it isn’t. Birthdays come once a year, they make us feel good for a day or two, and then it’s back to life as normal. Birthdays mark our aging in a world that places high value on productivity, so that if you’re too young or too old your value is diminished. But Christmas is something different. Christmas is a celebration created by the early church to celebrate the incarnation – that the Word became flesh and dwelled among us. Early Christians didn’t care what date Jesus was born on. They adopted the date from a Roman celebration. It was a subversive measure that enabled them to celebrate the coming of the Light of the World while the Roman culture celebrated the return of the light after the winter solstice. Skeptics say that it was an accommodation to the dominant culture of the day, but I think that what Christians saw was a time when the true Light could be celebrated! Christmas was not a holiday, it was a holy day – a day to remind the faithful that the Light of the world had come to shine in the darkest places of their existence. Christmas was a single day for remembering the Light of Christ every day. When I was growing up, we always had a little book on the coffee table at Christmas time, a sermon by Peter Marshall, chaplain of the US Senate, entitled “Let’s Keep Christmas.” It’s a sentiment that we hear often at Christmas time. But I would encourage you to embrace that title – Keep Christmas. When we pass December 25th, we may put the decorations into the attic for another year, but Christmas should never be put away. When you find yourself in a difficult time, remember that Christ came to walk with you in the struggles. When you see injustice in the community or in the world, remember that Christ came to show us a better way of peace and joy.

(continued on page 3)

December ’10 – page 2

Although we are designating December as Rice & Dried Beans month for Loaves & Fishes, the supply closet for this ministry continues to be quite low on all items. Over 50 families were served by our Thanksgiving distribution, and the need continues to be great. Please pick up any of the items from the list below and place them in the box at the entrance to the Narthex to help us meet the needs of this important ministry.

Macaroni & Cheese Canned Tuna Canned Fruit

Canned peas, carrots Mixed vegetables Canned tomatoes

Boxed Cereals (hot & cold)

Pancake Mixes Pancake Syrup

Dried or Powdered Milk Peanut Butter Cooking Oil

Pasta Pasta Sauce

Boxed Potatoes Rice Side Dishes

Bags of Rice Dried Beans – Red or Black

Jelly – Strawberry & Grape Paper towels Toilet paper

Tissues Toothpaste Shampoo

Thank you for your generosity,

Debby Smeilus, Coordinator

Dear Friends,

Thank you so much for the over-whelming support and generosity shared with me on Pastor’s Appreciation Day on October 31st. It was such a surprise! Your thought-fulness and expressions of gratitude were a blessing for me. It is a joy to be in ministry with you in the Butler United Methodist Church, to be a partner with you all in sharing the good news. Again, thank you so much, and may God continue to bless you all as we more together towards the celebration of the birth of the Prince of Peace.

In Christ, Steve

A special thanks to the Helping Hands group from Butler UMC who cleaned up my mother’s yard this month.

- Fred Rochacewicz

UP-DATING THE DIRECTORY

1ST Lt. Butler, Gregory D. HMLA-169 (Section S3)

Unit 42055 FPO AP 96427-2055

… to Greg Butler and Ashley Burk who became engaged on October 9th. An April

2012 wedding is planned in Indiana.

December ’10 – page 11

HELPING HANDS … A Community Helping its Community

This month a special Helping Hands day is scheduled for Saturday, December 11th. Volunteers will be traveling to the Strengthen Our Sisters shelter in Wanaque, where we will be doing a variety of small jobs. Following lunch with the guests of the shelter we will be distributing the Christmas gifts which have been collected for their children. Everyone willing to lend a hand is asked to come to the Fellowship Hall at the church by 8:30am that morning and we will carpool to Wanaque. PLEASE NOTE: We are asking everyone who intends to go to the shelter with us on the 11th to please let us know by December 4th by indicating on the tear off below, so we can plan on the jobs we can complete that morning, as well as how many we should plan on for lunch. If you have something you could use that extra pair of hands to help with in future months, would appreciate an occasional ride to church, or if you are willing to offer those helping hands or transportation, please fill out the tear off below and drop it into the offering plate. Opportunities to serve will be available for everyone who would like to participate. For more info, please see Jack Inglis or Tracey Gleason.

Please sign me up for HELPING HANDS

I (We) will be going to Strengthen Our Sisters on December 11th # of people ________

I could use some help with __________________________________________________

I would appreciate a ride to church events

I’d like to offer a helping hand I can offer a ride

Name ______________________________________________________________________ Phone ________________________ Email _______________________________________

December ‘10 – page 10

Let’s Talk about . . . Christmas! (continued from page 2) When you see disease that plagues the world, remember that Christ came to heal. When you feel the coldness of a world that only values you for what you can do at that moment, remember that Christ came to remind us that we are God’s children, and we are loved for who we are, not for what we do. Keeping ever before us the Light of Christ reminds us that in the midst of a world that in many ways seems just as cold and oppressive as the first century, we are not alone – for God is with us – and that, my friends is the meaning of Emmanuel! In Christ,

Steve CALLING ALL MEN … The next breakfast meeting of the Butler United Methodist Men will be on Sunday, December 5th in Fellowship Hall. Breakfast will be served promptly at 8:00 AM so that anyone who needs to can be on time for ushering or choir rehearsal. The Advent Conspiracy – Wellspring Services for Advent

Thursday nights at 8:00 p.m. in the Library Nobody wants a Christmas worth forgetting. The Advent Conspiracy is an international movement of people who want to substitute compassion for consumption, who want to make Christmas a life-style rather than an event. Through the weeks of Advent, the Wellspring services will focus on how we can make Christmas a world-changing event – just like the first one! Wellspring Services are quiet and reflective; they focus on addressing the questions of faith rather than providing the “company” answer. Wellspring values building relationships and community, seeking to find an authentic experience of what it means to be Christian apart from the traditions that are often barriers to persons seeking a faith community. Wellspring is an experience for us all.

December ’10 – page 3

Don’t Miss These Special Services and Events which are planned for the Advent/Christmas Season at our church … Sunday Mornings ~ November 28th thru December 26th Our Sunday School will lead us in a Bethlehem Village Adventure as we prepare for our Savior. Further details of what is planned for each Sunday can be found on page 9 of this issue of Tabernacle Times.

Monday, December 6th – 11:00 am SENIOR WORSHIP & LUNCH

Please join us for this time of worship followed by fellowship with friends around the table. Everyone’s invited, but please call the church office if you will be staying for lunch, 973-838-2026.

Saturday, December 11th – 8:30 am

HELPING HANDS at Strengthen Our Sisters

Join us as we give our special Christmas present to the residents of this women’s shelter in Wanaque, by volunteering our time to help out with small projects at the shelter. See further details on the plans for this day on page 10.

Sunday, December 12th – 3:00pm ~ Christmas Caroling Come share the Spirit of Christmas with those who are shut-in and unable to attend the Christmas events of the congregation.

All-Church Christmas Card & Christmas Flowers – Don’t forget the deadline for adding your personal greetings to this year’s All-Church Christmas card or for ordering Christmas flowers in honor or memory of a loved one is December 13th.

Saturday, December 18th – 10:00am ~ Christmas Decorating . Share the joy as we decorate our church for Christmas.

December ’10 – page 4

Advent (from the Latin word adventus meaning "coming") a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Birth of Christ. "O come let us adore him, Christ the Lord. Child, for us sinners, poor and in the manger, we would embrace thee with love and awe. Who would not love thee, loving us so dearly?" Hymn 234

We invite you to come, prepare for Him, worship Him, love Him, celebrate anew the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and be renewed with love and awe at this gift of life that God has freely given to the world. May you fall more deeply in love with God this advent season.

XO <>< Our time of preparation begins with decorating the sanctuary on Saturday, November 27th @ 9:30am. We pray that all of the congregation will join in this time of preparation when we will have a great opportunity to spend some time together. This is what is happening each Sunday Morning: November 28th @ 10:45 … Bethlehem Village Tribe leaders will lead the congregation in "Clear the Way" and then the congregation will follow the leaders into the Fellowship Hall where we will all gather together around the Census Taker who will explain the customs and traditions. We will then all sing one song together and enjoy a pancake breakfast together! December 5th @ 10:45 … the same format but after singing together, the kids will make Christmas Cards for Strengthen our Sisters and the adults will wrap the Christmas gifts which will be delivered to the children at the shelter by Helping Hands on Saturday, December 11th. December 12th @ 10:45 … the same format but after singing together we will prepare cookie bags for Christmas Caroling and enjoy singing some carols together so that those of us going caroling at 3:00pm that afternoon will be all warmed up!! December 19th @ 10:45 … the same format but after singing together, we will prepare Goodie Bags for LaPosada which we will celebrate together at 5:00PM that day. December 26th @ 10:45 … the same format but after singing together, there will be a special story teller and breakfast casserole together. ALL CHILDREN PARTICIPATING IN BETHLEHEM VILLAGE ADVENTURE MUST BE IN THE LIBRARY BY 9:00AM EACH SUNDAY DURING ADVENT.

December ’10 – page 9

OPPORTUNITIES

Friday, December 24th 7:30pm – Candlelight Family Service Carols, Children’s Story, Candle lighting (in English and Spanish) 11:00pm – Candlelight Communion Service Carols, Holy Communion, Candle lighting

USHERS (Keith Worman 973-838-5538)

Keith Worman, Captain Tim Campbell

Wayne Anderson Tim Hack

GREETERS

December 5th Judy Bernascone & Eileen Weinbrecht December 12th Jean & Ray Bresett December 19th Pat & Wayne Anderson December 21st Pat Inglis December 24th 7:30pm The Walters Family 11:00pm Jack & Pat Inglis December 26th Sandy & Charlie Smith and family December ’10 – page 8

ACOLYTES

(Alex Nafz 973-283-2668)

Katie Smelius Alex Thomas

SOUND TECHNICIAN

Scott Lowe

COFFEE HOUR HOSTS (Cecelia Joseph 973-838-0665)

Sandy Weigel 973-835-5544

Our Sunday School will host the BETHLEHEM VILLAGE ADVENTURE

every Sunday in December – with something special planned for each week

Won’t you sign up to host a week

in the New Year? (See the signup sheet in Fellowship Hall)

DECEMBER DATES… (continued) Sunday, December 19th – 9:30am ~ Choir Cantata Invite your friends and neighbors to worship with us this morning as our Tabernacle Choir leads us into Christmas week with beautiful music.

Sunday, December 19th – 5:00pm – La Posadas Beginning in the Sanctuary Join our Hispanic sisters and brothers in a traditional celebration with songs, dance, piñatas, and wonderful food.

Tuesday, December 21st – 7:30pm ~ Blue Christmas The true meaning of Christmas is the coming of the light of the world into the midst of darkness. On the longest night of the year, we gather together for a meditative service designed especially for persons who find the traditions of Christmas difficult due to loss of loved ones, family separated by distance or circumstance, and those willing to join with them to focus on the hope that is found in Christ. While it is separation or loss that bring many to this service, it is not a service of sadness or mourning, but a service that looks beyond the Christmas decorations and joyfulness to the true hope of the world. Join us in the Narthex on Tuesday, December 21st, at 7:30 for a peaceful and hope-filled experience of worship.

V{Ü|áàÅtá Xäx fxÜä|vxá

December ’10 – page 5

SPECIAL

Bible Study Opportunities Continue Throughout December … EVENING STUDIES …

Tuesdays, 7pm in Asbury Room, Bible Discovery led by Pastor Steve Thursdays, 8pm in the Library, Wellspring led by Pastor Steve Fridays, 7pm in the Library, Spanish Bible Study led by Pastora Lourdes

MORNING STUDIES …

Wednesdays, 9:30-11:15am in the Library Thursdays, 10-11:30am in the Library … Old Testament Challenge Fridays, 6:00 – 7:00am … Men’s Bible Study in the Library.

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1

9:30am Bible Study 10-1pm Gleaners 7pm Community of Faith 7pm Finance Meeting

29:30-4 pm Gleaners 10am Faith & Fellowship 6:30pm Rainbow Choir 7:00pm Adult Bells 8pm Tabernacle Choir 8pm Wellspring

3 6am Men’s Bible Study 10-1 pm Gleaners 7pm Spanish Bible Study

4 8:30am Gleaners Devotions 9:30-12:30pm Gleaners 10am NA Meeting

2nd Sunday of Advent 5 9:30am Worship, nursery 10:30am Sunday School 10:45am Bethlehem Village 11:30am Chimes Rehearsal 12pm Spanish Worship 2:15pm Cantata Practice 4pm Naomi Circle Christmas

6 10-1pm Gleaners 7-9pm Gleaners 7pm Spanish Prayer Service 7pm Natural Church Dev. Mtg

7 9:30-4 pm Gleaners 7:00pm Bible Discovery 7:30pm Cantata Practice

8 9:30am Bible Study 10-1pm Gleaners

99:30-4 pm Gleaners 10am Faith & Fellowship 6:30pm Rainbow Choir 7:00pm Adult Bells 8pm Tabernacle Choir 8pm Wellspring

10

6am Men’s Bible Study 10-1 pm Gleaners 7pm Spanish Bible Study

11 8:30am Helping Hands 8:30am Gleaners Devotions 9:30-12:30pm Gleaners 10am NA Meeting

3rd Sunday of Advent 12 9:30am Worship, nursery 10:30am Sunday School 10:45am Bethlehem Village 11:30am Chimes Rehearsal 12pm Spanish Worship 3pm Christmas Caroling

13 10-1pm Gleaners 1:30pm Agape Circle 7-9pm Gleaners

14 9:30-4 pm Gleaners 7:00pm Bible Discovery

15 9:30am Bible Study 10-1pm Gleaners 7pm Community of Faith 7:30pm Cantata Practice

16 9:30-4 pm Gleaners 10am Faith & Fellowship 10:30am Noah’s Ark in Hall 6:30pm Rainbow Choir 7:00pm Adult Bells 8pm Tabernacle Choir 8pm Wellspring

17 6am Men’s Bible Study 10-1 pm Gleaners 7pm Spanish Bible Study

18 8:30am Gleaners Devotions 9:30-12:30pm Gleaners 10am NA Meeting 12 Noon Cantata Rehearsal

4th Sunday of Advent 19 9:30am Worship, nursery 10:30am Sunday School 10:45am Bethlehem Village 11:30am Chimes Rehearsal 12pm Spanish Worship 5pm La Posada

2010-1pm Gleaners 9-11am Loaves & 7-9pm Fishes 7-9pm Gleaners NO Trustees Meeting 7pm Spanish Prayer Service

21 9:30-4 pm Gleaners 7:30 pm Blue Christmas Service in Narthex

22 9:30am Bible Study 10-1pm Gleaners

23 9:30-4 pm Gleaners 10am Faith & Fellowship 6:30pm Rainbow Choir 7:00pm Adult Bells 8pm Tabernacle Choir 8pm Wellspring

24 6am Men’s Bible Study 10-1 pm Gleaners

Christmas Eve Services… 7:30pm Family Candlelight 11pm Candlelight Communion

25

Merry Chr i s tmas !

26 9:30am Worship, nursery 10:30am Sunday School 10:45am Bethlehem Village 12pm Spanish Worship

27 10-1pm Gleaners 7-9pm Gleaners

28

9:30-4 pm Gleaners

29

9:30am Bible Study 10-1pm Gleaners 7pm Community of Faith

30

9:30-4 pm Gleaners

31

6am Men’s Bible Study 10-1 pm Gleaners

OPPORTUNITIES

Friday, December 24th 7:30pm – Candlelight Family Service Carols, Children’s Story, Candle lighting (in English and Spanish) 11:00pm – Candlelight Communion Service Carols, Holy Communion, Candle lighting

USHERS (Keith Worman 973-838-5538)

Keith Worman, Captain Tim Campbell

Wayne Anderson Tim Hack

GREETERS

December 5th Judy Bernascone & Eileen Weinbrecht December 12th Jean & Ray Bresett December 19th Pat & Wayne Anderson December 21st Pat Inglis December 24th 7:30pm The Walters Family 11:00pm Jack & Pat Inglis December 26th Sandy & Charlie Smith and family December ’10 – page 8

ACOLYTES

(Alex Nafz 973-283-2668)

Katie Smelius Alex Thomas

SOUND TECHNICIAN

Scott Lowe

COFFEE HOUR HOSTS (Cecelia Joseph 973-838-0665)

Sandy Weigel 973-835-5544

Our Sunday School will host the BETHLEHEM VILLAGE ADVENTURE

every Sunday in December – with something special planned for each week

Won’t you sign up to host a week

in the New Year? (See the signup sheet in Fellowship Hall)

DECEMBER DATES… (continued) Sunday, December 19th – 9:30am ~ Choir Cantata Invite your friends and neighbors to worship with us this morning as our Tabernacle Choir leads us into Christmas week with beautiful music.

Sunday, December 19th – 5:00pm – La Posadas Beginning in the Sanctuary Join our Hispanic sisters and brothers in a traditional celebration with songs, dance, piñatas, and wonderful food.

Tuesday, December 21st – 7:30pm ~ Blue Christmas The true meaning of Christmas is the coming of the light of the world into the midst of darkness. On the longest night of the year, we gather together for a meditative service designed especially for persons who find the traditions of Christmas difficult due to loss of loved ones, family separated by distance or circumstance, and those willing to join with them to focus on the hope that is found in Christ. While it is separation or loss that bring many to this service, it is not a service of sadness or mourning, but a service that looks beyond the Christmas decorations and joyfulness to the true hope of the world. Join us in the Narthex on Tuesday, December 21st, at 7:30 for a peaceful and hope-filled experience of worship.

V{Ü|áàÅtá Xäx fxÜä|vxá

December ’10 – page 5

SPECIAL

Bible Study Opportunities Continue Throughout December … EVENING STUDIES …

Tuesdays, 7pm in Asbury Room, Bible Discovery led by Pastor Steve Thursdays, 8pm in the Library, Wellspring led by Pastor Steve Fridays, 7pm in the Library, Spanish Bible Study led by Pastora Lourdes

MORNING STUDIES …

Wednesdays, 9:30-11:15am in the Library Thursdays, 10-11:30am in the Library … Old Testament Challenge Fridays, 6:00 – 7:00am … Men’s Bible Study in the Library.

Don’t Miss These Special Services and Events which are planned for the Advent/Christmas Season at our church … Sunday Mornings ~ November 28th thru December 26th Our Sunday School will lead us in a Bethlehem Village Adventure as we prepare for our Savior. Further details of what is planned for each Sunday can be found on page 9 of this issue of Tabernacle Times.

Monday, December 6th – 11:00 am SENIOR WORSHIP & LUNCH

Please join us for this time of worship followed by fellowship with friends around the table. Everyone’s invited, but please call the church office if you will be staying for lunch, 973-838-2026.

Saturday, December 11th – 8:30 am

HELPING HANDS at Strengthen Our Sisters

Join us as we give our special Christmas present to the residents of this women’s shelter in Wanaque, by volunteering our time to help out with small projects at the shelter. See further details on the plans for this day on page 10.

Sunday, December 12th – 3:00pm ~ Christmas Caroling Come share the Spirit of Christmas with those who are shut-in and unable to attend the Christmas events of the congregation.

All-Church Christmas Card & Christmas Flowers – Don’t forget the deadline for adding your personal greetings to this year’s All-Church Christmas card or for ordering Christmas flowers in honor or memory of a loved one is December 13th.

Saturday, December 18th – 10:00am ~ Christmas Decorating . Share the joy as we decorate our church for Christmas.

December ’10 – page 4

Advent (from the Latin word adventus meaning "coming") a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Birth of Christ. "O come let us adore him, Christ the Lord. Child, for us sinners, poor and in the manger, we would embrace thee with love and awe. Who would not love thee, loving us so dearly?" Hymn 234

We invite you to come, prepare for Him, worship Him, love Him, celebrate anew the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and be renewed with love and awe at this gift of life that God has freely given to the world. May you fall more deeply in love with God this advent season.

XO <>< Our time of preparation begins with decorating the sanctuary on Saturday, November 27th @ 9:30am. We pray that all of the congregation will join in this time of preparation when we will have a great opportunity to spend some time together. This is what is happening each Sunday Morning: November 28th @ 10:45 … Bethlehem Village Tribe leaders will lead the congregation in "Clear the Way" and then the congregation will follow the leaders into the Fellowship Hall where we will all gather together around the Census Taker who will explain the customs and traditions. We will then all sing one song together and enjoy a pancake breakfast together! December 5th @ 10:45 … the same format but after singing together, the kids will make Christmas Cards for Strengthen our Sisters and the adults will wrap the Christmas gifts which will be delivered to the children at the shelter by Helping Hands on Saturday, December 11th. December 12th @ 10:45 … the same format but after singing together we will prepare cookie bags for Christmas Caroling and enjoy singing some carols together so that those of us going caroling at 3:00pm that afternoon will be all warmed up!! December 19th @ 10:45 … the same format but after singing together, we will prepare Goodie Bags for LaPosada which we will celebrate together at 5:00PM that day. December 26th @ 10:45 … the same format but after singing together, there will be a special story teller and breakfast casserole together. ALL CHILDREN PARTICIPATING IN BETHLEHEM VILLAGE ADVENTURE MUST BE IN THE LIBRARY BY 9:00AM EACH SUNDAY DURING ADVENT.

December ’10 – page 9

HELPING HANDS … A Community Helping its Community

This month a special Helping Hands day is scheduled for Saturday, December 11th. Volunteers will be traveling to the Strengthen Our Sisters shelter in Wanaque, where we will be doing a variety of small jobs. Following lunch with the guests of the shelter we will be distributing the Christmas gifts which have been collected for their children. Everyone willing to lend a hand is asked to come to the Fellowship Hall at the church by 8:30am that morning and we will carpool to Wanaque. PLEASE NOTE: We are asking everyone who intends to go to the shelter with us on the 11th to please let us know by December 4th by indicating on the tear off below, so we can plan on the jobs we can complete that morning, as well as how many we should plan on for lunch. If you have something you could use that extra pair of hands to help with in future months, would appreciate an occasional ride to church, or if you are willing to offer those helping hands or transportation, please fill out the tear off below and drop it into the offering plate. Opportunities to serve will be available for everyone who would like to participate. For more info, please see Jack Inglis or Tracey Gleason.

Please sign me up for HELPING HANDS

I (We) will be going to Strengthen Our Sisters on December 11th # of people ________

I could use some help with __________________________________________________

I would appreciate a ride to church events

I’d like to offer a helping hand I can offer a ride

Name ______________________________________________________________________ Phone ________________________ Email _______________________________________

December ‘10 – page 10

Let’s Talk about . . . Christmas! (continued from page 2) When you see disease that plagues the world, remember that Christ came to heal. When you feel the coldness of a world that only values you for what you can do at that moment, remember that Christ came to remind us that we are God’s children, and we are loved for who we are, not for what we do. Keeping ever before us the Light of Christ reminds us that in the midst of a world that in many ways seems just as cold and oppressive as the first century, we are not alone – for God is with us – and that, my friends is the meaning of Emmanuel! In Christ,

Steve CALLING ALL MEN … The next breakfast meeting of the Butler United Methodist Men will be on Sunday, December 5th in Fellowship Hall. Breakfast will be served promptly at 8:00 AM so that anyone who needs to can be on time for ushering or choir rehearsal. The Advent Conspiracy – Wellspring Services for Advent

Thursday nights at 8:00 p.m. in the Library Nobody wants a Christmas worth forgetting. The Advent Conspiracy is an international movement of people who want to substitute compassion for consumption, who want to make Christmas a life-style rather than an event. Through the weeks of Advent, the Wellspring services will focus on how we can make Christmas a world-changing event – just like the first one! Wellspring Services are quiet and reflective; they focus on addressing the questions of faith rather than providing the “company” answer. Wellspring values building relationships and community, seeking to find an authentic experience of what it means to be Christian apart from the traditions that are often barriers to persons seeking a faith community. Wellspring is an experience for us all.

December ’10 – page 3

Let’s Talk about . . . Christmas! In less than four weeks, Christmas day will be upon us. We all know what Christmas has become; what we often don’t understand is what Christmas is supposed to be. Only two of the four gospels even have a birth narrative (Matthew and Luke). The two accounts that we do have bear little resemblance to the holiday that we celebrate, or dream of. These two accounts are replete with the harsh realities of life in the time when Jesus was born. This was not a warm and friendly world; the stable with its manger was not a quaint hostel where cows and donkeys stood in silent awe at the birth of the savior. It was cold, dark, and damp, but it may have been a lot better than having a baby in a crowded inn or home. The magi from the east came bearing gifts, but they also recognized the dangerous world of Herod’s kingdom that sent them home by another route and Joseph and Mary to Egypt to avoid the slaughter of their child. The savior was born into the midst of cruelty, oppression, isolation, and fear. But life hasn’t changed that much when we look at our global picture. As much as we want to turn Christmas into a birthday party for Jesus, it isn’t. Birthdays come once a year, they make us feel good for a day or two, and then it’s back to life as normal. Birthdays mark our aging in a world that places high value on productivity, so that if you’re too young or too old your value is diminished. But Christmas is something different. Christmas is a celebration created by the early church to celebrate the incarnation – that the Word became flesh and dwelled among us. Early Christians didn’t care what date Jesus was born on. They adopted the date from a Roman celebration. It was a subversive measure that enabled them to celebrate the coming of the Light of the World while the Roman culture celebrated the return of the light after the winter solstice. Skeptics say that it was an accommodation to the dominant culture of the day, but I think that what Christians saw was a time when the true Light could be celebrated! Christmas was not a holiday, it was a holy day – a day to remind the faithful that the Light of the world had come to shine in the darkest places of their existence. Christmas was a single day for remembering the Light of Christ every day. When I was growing up, we always had a little book on the coffee table at Christmas time, a sermon by Peter Marshall, chaplain of the US Senate, entitled “Let’s Keep Christmas.” It’s a sentiment that we hear often at Christmas time. But I would encourage you to embrace that title – Keep Christmas. When we pass December 25th, we may put the decorations into the attic for another year, but Christmas should never be put away. When you find yourself in a difficult time, remember that Christ came to walk with you in the struggles. When you see injustice in the community or in the world, remember that Christ came to show us a better way of peace and joy.

(continued on page 3)

December ’10 – page 2

Although we are designating December as Rice & Dried Beans month for Loaves & Fishes, the supply closet for this ministry continues to be quite low on all items. Over 50 families were served by our Thanksgiving distribution, and the need continues to be great. Please pick up any of the items from the list below and place them in the box at the entrance to the Narthex to help us meet the needs of this important ministry.

Macaroni & Cheese Canned Tuna Canned Fruit

Canned peas, carrots Mixed vegetables Canned tomatoes

Boxed Cereals (hot & cold)

Pancake Mixes Pancake Syrup

Dried or Powdered Milk Peanut Butter Cooking Oil

Pasta Pasta Sauce

Boxed Potatoes Rice Side Dishes

Bags of Rice Dried Beans – Red or Black

Jelly – Strawberry & Grape Paper towels Toilet paper

Tissues Toothpaste Shampoo

Thank you for your generosity,

Debby Smeilus, Coordinator

Dear Friends,

Thank you so much for the over-whelming support and generosity shared with me on Pastor’s Appreciation Day on October 31st. It was such a surprise! Your thought-fulness and expressions of gratitude were a blessing for me. It is a joy to be in ministry with you in the Butler United Methodist Church, to be a partner with you all in sharing the good news. Again, thank you so much, and may God continue to bless you all as we more together towards the celebration of the birth of the Prince of Peace.

In Christ, Steve

A special thanks to the Helping Hands group from Butler UMC who cleaned up my mother’s yard this month.

- Fred Rochacewicz

UP-DATING THE DIRECTORY

1ST Lt. Butler, Gregory D. HMLA-169 (Section S3)

Unit 42055 FPO AP 96427-2055

… to Greg Butler and Ashley Burk who became engaged on October 9th. An April

2012 wedding is planned in Indiana.

December ’10 – page 11

Advent Prayer Calendar

28

Pray for those who are feeling isolated and alone

29

Offer thanks for God’s presence in your life

30

Ask God to open your eyes to the wonder of this season

1

Pray for justice for all of God’s people.

2

Give thanks to God for the new life that we receive in Jesus.

3

Ask God to reveal how you can be a more faithful servant.

4

Pray for a humble heart, a passion for justice, and a loving spirit.

5

Pray for an open heart and renewed joy this season.

6

Give thanks to God for all the promises that have been fulfilled.

7

Pray that God’s peace might dwell in every heart.

8

Open your eyes to see God working in new ways around you

9

Pray for the reconciling of all people to God and one another

10

Pray that you might see God’s answers to prayer in your life.

11

Listen for the word of God present in the world today.

12

Pray that the truth about Christmas might be revealed to all people.

13

Open your hearts so that you might hear God’s voice in new ways.

14

Ask God to remove fears that plague your thoughts.

15

Open yourself to be a true servant of God wherever you’re needed

16

Pray for those who live on the margins of society.

17

Give thanks for prayers that have been answered.

18

Ask for God’s guidance as you prepare your heart for Christmas.

19

Pray that God may use you in unexpected ways this coming year.

20

Give thanks that God is with you today and every day.

21

Pray for all those who need to know God’s love in this season.

22

Open your heart to make room for the celebration of the real Christmas

23

Give thanks and praise to God for the gift of Jesus Christ.

24

Ask God to help you to share the real good news of Christmas!

Your Advent Prayer Calendar On the reverse side you will find a prayer calendar for the season of Advent. Each day there are two Spiritual Disciplines for you participate in addition to the scriptures and devotional readings you received with the Advent Devotional:

1. Prayer – a prayer focus for the day is suggested. Following these will help you to follow a disciplined prayer life for these four weeks. 2. Generosity – a small check box is in each square. Each day, set aside a monetary gift every day in the envelope provided, and at the end

of the season, place it in the offering plate. This offering is used to expand and grow our ministry in the name of Jesus Christ – our gift to the world as God gave to us so generously.

Spiritual Disciplines are a way of growing closer to God, connecting in a deeper and more meaningful way. Until we participate, it is hard to understand exactly what they do for us. But when we are dedicated and committed to fulfilling these disciplines, we find new things happening in our spiritual lives, and our hearts grow calm and spirits our lifted. In is my prayer for our congregation that the season of Advent will open up our hearts to make the celebration of Christmas even more meaningful. This is a time of additional stresses of time, finances, and priorities. The practice of Spiritual Disciplines helps keep our lives balanced, and opens ourselves to the healing and powerful hand of God to work in our midst. May God bless you in this season of life and light.

Pastor Steve

What is Christmas ?

Every time a hand reaches out to help another, .... that is Christmas. Every time someone puts anger aside

and strives for understanding, that is Christmas.

Every time people forget their differences,

and realize their love for each other that is Christmas.

May this Christmas bring us closer to the spirit of human

understanding, closer to the blessing of peace!

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS/DECORATIONS

Orders are being taken for Christmas Poinsettias and Decorations. Here is an opportunity for you to help beautify the sanctuary on Christmas Eve, December 24th, as you remember or recognize a loved one. As we have in the past, we will also purchase greens for the beautification of the Lord's Table and surrounding sanctuary. Please print clearly your name, and the name(s) of person(s) whom you wish to remember or honor. Enclose $10.00 and the tear off portion of this page in an envelope marked "Christmas" for each plant/decoration ordered. This may be left in the church office or placed in the offering plate on Sunday. Deadline for ordering is December 13th. I/We wish to order ______ Poinsettias/Decorations. $__________ Enclosed. Name of Donor ____________________________________________________ In Loving Memory of _______________________________________________ In Honor of _______________________________________________________ Plants may be removed for your own enjoyment; the Flower Delivery Committee will distribute any remaining plants to shut-ins. (Plants may be picked up following the late service on Christmas Eve.)

I will pick up ______. I will not pick up ______. I will help deliver ______.

BUTLER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Non-Profit 5 Bartholdi Avenue Organization Butler, New Jersey 07405-1496 U.S. POSTAGE

PAID FORWARDING SERVICE REQUESTED Bloomingdale, N.J.

07403 Permit #6

Tabernacle Times

Being United in Christ Teaching the Word Loving and Caring Empowering and Enabling Disciples Responding to Needs UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 5 Bartholdi Avenue, Butler, New Jersey 07405 Church Office (973) 838-2026 Website Address: bumcnj.org Email Address: umcbutler @gmail.com FAX (973) 838-8821 The Reverend Steven Bechtold Lourdes Matos-Santiago Pastor Assistant Pastor

Pat Inglis, Editor

TABERNACLE TIMES

**** DECEMBER 2010 ****