T h e n e w s l e t t e r o f A s y l u m H i l l C o n g r e g a t i o n a l C h u r c h

Open to and affirming of all God’s people

Volume 69 • Issue 23 • October 1, 2013

Music & Arts ............5youth & Teens .........6

Sunday Worship Services9:00 & 10:15 a.m.

Wednesday, October 2Rev. Matt Laney preaching

First Wednesday Worship (Jazz)I am … inclusive

Sunday, October 6Rev. Gary Miller preachingWorld Communion Sunday

I am … forgiving

Sunday, October 13Rev. Dr. Bernard LaFayette preaching

I am … just

Sunday, October 20 Rev. Matthew Laney preaching

I am … patient

Sunday, October 27Youth Sunday!

I am … with you

uCC news ..............2Adult Education ......3

Women’s Fellow .....3Member Engage. ....4

Children & Family ...8 Outreach & Comm ..9Meet the Deacons ..9

Sea Legsby Matt Laney

One day in late August, John Henry Decker and I met for lunch. John is a member of AHCC and served on the Senior Minister Search Committee which brought me to the church. As we munched on our burritos at Agave downtown, we noted it was two years ago, almost to the date, that I came to Hartford for my fi rst visit with the Search Committee.

John talked about how meaningful the search experience was for the committee and the enduring friendships they formed along the way. In a few moments we hatched the idea of getting the old gang back together for a reunion dinner … including me! The stars aligned and Wanda Williams-McCormack graciously offered to host, just as she did when I fi rst met the whole committee.

What a joy it was to be together again (I was much less nervous this time!) to laugh, share stories and reflect on the church’s journey over the past three years since Gary Miller announced his retirement. After din-ner, we all sat around Wanda’s living room, in much the same way we had two years ago, to look back and share our various per-spectives of the past three years. Not that I was worried, but I’m pleased and humbled

to report the whole committee continues to enthusiastically endorse and support their choice.

In the course of the conversation Tim Hollister asked, “So, after 18 months, do you feel you have found your sea legs?” My immediate answer: Not yet.

I’ve been telling myself, and anyone who will listen, that I’m on a two to three year landing at AHCC, a blessed but diz-zying time of discovery, relationship and team building, administrative adjustments, worship shifts, new programs, goal set-ting, missteps, fumbles and perhaps a few touchdowns.

But the honest truth is, at the end of the day, I often feel like I’m ministering in somebody else’s church and my job is to keep the wheels turning (without the wheels falling off!) until he or she returns. Kind of like a long term substitute teacher. Silly, I know, and probably perfectly normal, but it’s the feeling lingering at the back of my mind. In other words, while I’m fi nding my balance on the deck of AHCC and things are starting to gel, I’m not sure my ministry has actually started!

In many churches, a change in pastoral leadership is accompanied by a one to two year gap while the search committee does its

Wednesday Night Worship and Dinner Kick OffWednesday, October 2, 6:00 p.m. dinner, Drew Hall; 7:00 p.m. worship service, Sanctuary

Come for an evening of praise and prayer, music and fellowship as we kick off the fall with our fi rst Wednesday night alternative worship service. New this year, we will be hosting a hot meal served in Drew Hall before the service. October’s service will have a jazz feel to it while focusing on how our God is open and inclusive to all. The dinner and service is a great mid-week opportunity for our church to gather as a family in addi-tion to Sunday morning, providing a different form of worship that we can participate in together. Rev. Matt Laney will deliver a hopeful message, while Dan Campolieta’s jazz ensemble will be leading the musical aspects of the service. Wednesday night worship will continue monthly throughout the year, always on the fi rst Wednesday of the month, so save the date now for a folk music worship service on November 6.

See “Sea Legs,” pg. 2

New Beginnings: Go Boldly!146th Annual Meeting of the Connecticut Conference United Church of ChristFriday, October 18, 5:30 - 9:00 p.m.; Saturday, October 19, 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Where: Asylum Hill Congregational Church Who: Anyone may attend! (only clergy, past or present conference moderators or delegates may vote) How: For more information, please visit: www.ctucc.org/news/AnnlMtg13/

“Sea Legs,” cont. from pg. 1work and an intentional interim minister is called to build up the lay leadership, establish some clear goals for the next 3-5 years, do some house-cleaning, help the church grieve their last minister and prepare for new pastoral leadership.

AHCC is not in the habit of doing an intentional interim pro-cess, which is fine, but it might mean the new senior minister, like it or not, is going to fill that role in their first year or so. That’s been true for me. I’ve often felt like an interim minister preparing the church for my own ministry. And then there’s all the regular stuff about being new in a well-established, large organization.

I’m not looking for sympathy

here. It’s just the way it is.Many things are going ex-

ceptionally well. Despite all the change and transition, the church has weathered in recent years, our membership, ministries and unflagging optimism continue to be strong. With the recent arrival of Marcie Jackson as our new Director of Children and Family Ministries (Spirit Hill) following a two year interim skillfully held by Molly Reynolds, as well as an emerging vision and strategic plan, I sense we are entering a new era of leadership focused on growing Christians today for the church of tomorrow.

And you have an important role in the present and future of the church. Your gifts of presence,

participation and pledge enable us to be faithful to God’s call to build an engaged community of disciples growing in faith and love with meaningful outreach into our neighborhood and com-munity. Much as we love our magnificent building, the church is really just a collection of regu-lar broken people seeking God’s redeeming embrace. I stand in as much need of God’s grace as anyone, all the more so as I daily submit myself to God’s will and direction as your servant-in-chief.

Speaking of embrace, I’m re-ally excited about Gary Miller’s visit on October 6. Gary and I have spoken half a dozen times on the phone but we’ve yet to meet in person. So many people have told me about Gary’s warm

presence and great hugs, I’m looking forward to experiencing them for myself! Gary and Beth will have lunch with Ann and me while they’re in town.

Thank you for your faithful love and commitment to God through AHCC. I love and ap-preciate you not for what you do for the church, but because you are a beloved child of a good and gracious God. Let us boldly seek God’s future together, always ask-ing ourselves not “what can the church do for me?” but “what can I do for the church?” in response to God’s grace and all that God is doing through us.

Sea legs? Not yet. But lean-ing on one another and on the Everlasting Arms, our journey and destination are secure.

In faith and love,Matt

Bubble Girl: An Irreverent Journey of FaithThursday, October 24, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m., Happy Hour and Presentation

Come enjoy an evening with Kathryn (Kat) Banakis as she talks about her life and her book, Bubble Girl. The book follows her funny, quirky, wobbly, messy wanderings while helping you reflect on your own faith journey. Bubble Girl seamlessly weaves together iconic tales of those in their twenties and thirties– isolation, unemployment, virtual (and real) relationships, and rodent infestations – with theological reflection. Banakis highlights humor and holiness in a soul “coming of age” story.

Banakis is an Episcopal priest in the Chicago area and holds two degrees in reli-gion from Yale University.

Staff and Leadership:Matthew Laney, Senior Minister - mlaney@ahcc.org

Erica A. Thompson, Assoc. Minister - ethompson@ahcc.orgDonna K. Manocchio, Assoc. Minister - dmanocchio@ahcc.org

Daniel J. Campolieta, Organist & Assoc. Music Director - dcampolieta@ahcc.orgTony Mein, Director of Outreach Ministries - tmein@ahcc.org

Helena F. Carvalho, Director of Operations - hcarvalho@ahcc.orgMarcie Jackson, Director of Children & Family Ministries - mjackson@ahcc.org

Steven A. Mitchell, Minister of Music & Arts - smitchell@ahcc.orgEditor, Rhonda Mitchell, Communications Manager - rmitchell@ahcc.orgMolly Reynolds, Director of Member Engagement - mreynolds@ahcc.org

Ruth Hofstatter, Moderator Ted Carroll, Vice Moderator

ASYLUM HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

814 Asylum Avenue Hartford, CT 06105-2892

Ph: (860)525-5696; Fax: (860)525-3457

www.ahcc.org • info@ahcc.orgWorship Services

Sundays at 9:00 & 10:15 a.m.

2 Sign up for all events at the Opportunity Table unless otherwise specified.

ADuLT CHRiSTiAn EDuCATiOn

Legacy Fellowship LuncheonWednesday, October 9, 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

It’s that time of year when we have the opportunity to thank our Legacy Fellowship members by hosting the Legacy Fellowship luncheon.Each year, we plan a festive luncheon and program for those who have told us of their intention to remember the church in their es-

tate plans. These loyal church members–who number nearly 200–have made a commitment that significantly impacts the continuity and future stability of Asylum Hill Congregational Church. Bringing the group together is one way we can show our appreciation for their dedication and can encourage conversations about how to expand this special fellowship.

We will gather beginning at 11:45 a.m. for an informal reception followed by lunch at noon. At the conclusion of lunch we will wel-come two examples of the importance of legacy gifts in the life of our church. As part of our “Music for Humanity Series,” supported by a legacy gift, we packed our church for a spectacular jazz performance in April entitled “Ninety Miles.” The event raised more than $7,000 in ticket sales with all proceeds going directly to Camp Courant. Josh Reese, Executive Director of Camp Courant, will join us to speak about their important work.

Then, Alyce Hild, Executive Director of Loaves & Fishes Ministries, will talk about this vital program which is dedicated to revitalizing our Asylum Hill neighborhood and its close affiliation with AHCC. The lunch will conclude at 1:00 p.m.

Invitations have been sent to Legacy Fellowship members. If we have missed sending an invitation to any member who has made a legacy commitment, please let the church office know–and let us welcome you to the luncheon on October 9!

Have You Signed Up For Interfaith University?It’s not too late! Contact Mary Way (860)216-9819Wednesdays, October 9 - 30, 6:30 - 8:45 p.m.

Interfaith U is a collaborative effort between AHCC and Hartford Seminary that will explore over a period of years what it means to be a Christian in a multi-faith world. This year is the exploration of Islam. The course includes four classes: Understanding Islamic Beliefs, Traditions and Practices; Global Islam; Perceptions of Each Other and Islam in America. Teachers for the University will include faculty and scholars from the Seminary and community leaders. Sessions will be facilitated by AHCC staff and members and the fee of $20 per person includes all course materials.

Brochures with more detailed information are available in Drew Hall and on the Adult Christian Education bulletin board. Come and discover more about Islam and more about how we are called to be deeply committed Christians in an Interfaith World.

Grandtimers Returns!Thursday, October 24, 10:00 a.m.

“Buongiorno! Getting to Know You”

New Associate Minister Donna Manocchio will share stories of her faith, heritage, and a recent biking trip to Italy.

Grandtimers is a pro-gram primarily for people of retirement age (however you define that), but anyone interested in the program is invited to attend. No reser-vations are necessary and guests and visitors are always welcome.

Women’s Prayer Group Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m.

There is no need to register to be a part of this wonderful group as it is a casual gathering of women (come as you are, and as you are able). We open with the sharing of joys, continue with thoughtful and spirit-filled conversation, and end in prayer and meditation.

If you would like more information or would like prayers lifted, please contact Erica Thompson at ethompson@ahcc.org or (860)216-9823.

WOMEn’S SPiRiTuALiTy & FELLOWSHiP

3860.525.5696 • www.ahcc.org Asylum Hill Congregational Church - Open to and affirming of all God’s people

Connecticut ForumThursday, november 21

AHCC has secured 10 tickets to the CT Forum to hear author Malcolm Gladwell and other “big thinkers.” Gladwell’s latest book, David and Goliath: underdogs, misfits and the art of battling giants will be released on October 1 and hard cover copies will be available for purchase in AHCC’s front office beginning October 2. We will be hosting a discussion of the book at AHCC on Wednesday, November 13 at 7:00 p.m. First priority to those who purchase a book AND attend the CT Forum (limit 10) at a cost of $70 per person. If you would like to attend the forum only, you will be placed on a waiting list. The cost for the forum only is $50.00 per person. Sign up and payment box on the Opportunity Table.

MEMbER EngAgEMEnT

Plugging In at AHCC – Judy CarrithersWelcome to the third installment of our Member Engagement series. This month, Judy Carrithers tells her story of being both involved and engaged at AHCC over the last 18 years.

It’s easy to see how Judy, being an actively involved member, has touched so many lives in our church and in our community. But it’s her engagement with AHCC that inspires her to lead in serving others, to be enriched by the spiritual friendships formed in our community and as a result, to leading a life of deeper personal meaning.

“Being asked to write about my experiences as an engaged member of AHCC has been an 18 year trip down Memory Lane. It follows my nature that if I am not actively involved I’m not as interested. Whether volunteering or actively participating in an extended commitment, the risk and the investment provide rewards that far outweigh the “work.” Sometimes it takes time to realize, but it is true.

In my earliest years, I relied on my experience as a teacher, volunteering in the church school but also expanding my experiences by joining the Children and Family Ministries Committee where I had my first opportunities with outreach in Hartford. We got winter coats to city school children and worked with Covenant to Care by putting together emergency packs for infants and children in perilous situations requiring temporary foster care. At that time, there was also a group that ran a Saturday morning program for neighborhood children where we cooked, went to the Bushnell and even roller skated. It’s hard to imagine that now. This is also where I met Tony Mein, an integral part of AHCC community outreach even today. Upon my retirement, the work of Joann Kidd drew me to the Thrift Shop where I volunteered for a few years.

As the years have gone by, one thing remains constant: I continue to be inspired to action by like-minded people I have met at this church. They have given me the courage and confidence that I am not in this alone. Things I used to only think about doing are actual realities because others are valuing the same.

A very influential friend has been Kathleen Graham. As soon as she became the Director of Children and Family Ministries and brought the concept of Spirit Hill, I was off and running again. Her own spirit was with me in teaching, curriculum writing, and costume making for the annual Children’s Christmas Pageant. She and I would dream of creative and artistic enhancements for Spirit Hill and I couldn’t get into it fast enough.

Engagement doesn’t always come in the form of donating one’s time. Being a member of the Diversity Committee, participating in Erica’s Tuesday morning prayer (and laughter) group for several years, and most recently becoming involved with the newly formed anti-violence group (SUSO), I have challenged my limitations and continue to feed my soul. Fellow members, gifted in so many ways, surround me.

Engagement is about opportunity, the opportunity to lead a more meaningful life and to make the church more personal to each of us. For me, Judy Carrithers, it has often been about the people. I have had the opportunity to know staff members and their families better and I am always amazed at the many times AHCC members are sharing involvement and joy with me elsewhere in the community. The church is so often the common thread that holds us together.” - Judy Carrithers

We’re waiting for YOUR story! Contact Molly Reynolds, Director of Member Engagement, at (860)216-9834 today!

4 Sign up for all events at the Opportunity Table unless otherwise specified.

MuSiC AnD ARTSTierney Sutton Band kicks off John & Edie Murphy Music for Humanity ConcertsFriday, October 4, 8:00 p.m., Sanctuary

Tickets $25, support Interval House of HartfordThe John & Edie Murphy Music for Humanity Concerts are proud to present jazz vocalist Tierney Sutton and the Tierney Sutton Band, live in our sanctuary. A three-time Grammy nominee for “Best Jazz Vocal Album,” Tierney Sutton is often described as “a singer’s singer,” but just as often, she is described as a “musician’s singer,” who uses her voice like an instrument. For over 20 years she has fronted the Tierney Sutton Band, which includes stellar partners, pianist Christian Jacob, drummer Ray Brinker and bassists Kevin Axt and Trey Henry.

As a Music for Humanity Concert, all ticket sales are directed to a local charity or service organization in the City of Hartford. Money raised at this concert will benefit Interval House – dedicated to providing services to prevent and break the cycle of family and intimate partner abuse. This worthy organization strives to reach all persons at risk and bring about social change. Order tickets now! (860) 278-0785 or online (service fee applies) at www.ahcc.org.

The Music of Stephen Schwartz: A Broadway Revue!A John and Edie Murphy Music for Humanity ConcertFriday, October 25, 8:00 p.m., Tickets: $20

The very popular annual Broadway Revue will be sweeping into the sanctuary earlier than usual this year as several members of our church’s choir along with a smokin’ pit band will be pre-senting the music of songwriter and Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz. Many of Schwartz’s works as a composer and lyricist deal with spirituality in the Judeo-Christian faith, including Godspell, Children of Eden, and the Prince of Egypt. The concert will feature songs from these works, as well as from the musicals Pippin, Wicked, Rags, and Disney’s the Hunchback of Notre Dame. Ticket sales will benefit the Asylum Hill Neighborhood Association. As this is a Music for Humanity event, all concert expenses are covered by an endowed gift made by the Murphy family, meaning every dollar of every ticket sold directly benefits AHNA. Tickets can be pur-chased by calling (860)278-0785 or online at ahcc.org. Don’t miss the hottest ticket in town!

Save the DateSunday, October 6

Rev. Gary Miller returns to the pulpit of AHCC to lead a service of worship and celebration of

World Communion Sunday

5860.525.5696 • www.ahcc.org Asylum Hill Congregational Church - Open to and affirming of all God’s people

Youth SundayYouth Sunday will be upon us before we know it! So, please mark your calendars now for Sunday, October 27. We are so excited about a committed group of seniors who will be taking on leadership roles for Youth Sunday, and helping to facilitate all aspects of the service.

Here are all of the dates relating to Youth Sunday:• Sunday, September 29 during the regularly scheduled YG times for both junior and

senior high.• Sunday, October 6, 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. for ALL who wish to be involved. (Lunch

will be provided.)• Saturday, October 26 from 12:00 noon - 3:00 p.m. for a full rehearsal• AND Sunday, October 27…Youth Sunday at both the 9:00 and 10:15 a.m. services.

Saturday, October 12, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

Sometimes the stars align, the heavens open, and the light shines so we can gaze into the complexities of our relationships and know the in-fluence of God in our lives. In augmenting this sacred process, there is always the persistent hard work and dedication of the lives of many individuals and groups helping lift up the lives of others and guide us forward. Thankfully, through the efforts of many, Asylum Hill Church is once again at the crossroads of a deeper discovery of who we are and who we are meant to become under the watchful, loving eyes of God.

AHCC Youth Group will have the unique opportunity to interact and get to know the Youth Group from the Connecticut Center for Non-violence who have been studying the fundamental tenets of Dr. Martin Luther King’s philosophy of nonviolence. The meeting will be guided by a true legend of the Civil Right’s Movement, the Reverend Doctor Bernard LaFayette, Jr. All youth will have the opportunity to ask Dr. LaFayette questions about his history and lifetime commitment to making the world a better place. Come listen and interact with this sage, grandfatherly personality. He has so much to teach us.

Rev. LaFayette, an ordained minister, is a longtime civil rights activist, organizer and an authority on nonviolent social change. He co-founded the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in 1960, and was a core leader of the civil rights movement in Nashville, TN in 1960 and in Selma, AL in 1965. He directed the Alabama Voter Registration Project in 1962, and he was appointed by Martin Luther King, Jr. to be national program administrator for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and national coordinator of the 1968 Poor People’s Campaign.

yOuTH HAPPEningSAmazing opportunity Meet with civil rights leader Dr. Bernard LaFayette and youth from the Hartford community

October Youth HappeningsJr. High:6: Interview Creation! Once a month, we will be hosting a “guest” from the larger AHCC community. We will interview each of these guests with questions youth want to know! This Sunday, we will be working to create this list of interview questions.

13: Our first guest! We will be having a small breakfast together this morning in celebration of our guest and beginning a photography project around the “I am ...” theme.

20: Interfaith Conversation! We are hearing the word “interfaith” all around AHCC these days … what does it mean? What does it have to do with us as youth? Come join us as we talk more about it.

27: Youth Sunday

Sr. High:6: Interview Creation! Once a month, we will be hosting a “guest” from the larger AHCC community. We will interview each of these guests with questions youth want to know! This Sunday, we will be working to create this list of interview questions.

Saturday, October 12 (9:00 am - 1:00 pm): Rev. Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr. Please see article above for all the details. (Lunch will be served.)

13: Youth Sunday preparation. This week, we will take a look at the liturgies for Youth Sunday and work in small groups led by our seniors to continue to get ready for Youth Sunday when we will lead worship.

Saturday, October 19: The Annual Meeting of the CT UCC will be held at AHCC! The Youth Group has the opportunity to host a “snack bar” that will provide breakfast and lunch to guests that day. Sign up for one of three shifts: 7:00 - 9:00 am, 9:00 - 11:00 am, or 11:00 am - 1:00 pm! All proceeds will benefit our Youth Mission work.

20: Youth Sunday preparation - “Tying up loose ends!” Please join us as we take one final look at the Sunday we have planned, finish any unfinished business, and polish our final plan!

27: Youth Sunday

Confirmation:6: Who is God anyway? – The Holy Trin-ity- Please read letters #1 and 3 with a parent before class. 20: Jesus’ Life, Teachings, and the Good Book. Please read letters #2, 17, 18, and 19 with a parent before class.

Saturday, October 26 at 10:30 am: Interfaith Learning. Our first opportunity to learn more about a different faith tradition will be a trip to St. George Greek Orthodox Church (433 Fairfield Ave., Hartford 06114) to observe a service and learn more about the Greek Orthodox faith. Parents, we invite you to join us as well!

6 Sign up for all events at the Opportunity Table unless otherwise specified.

OCTOBER 4 OCTOBER 4 · 8 PM 8 PM · TICKETS TICKETS $25$25$25Three-time Grammy nominee for Best Jazz Vocal Album, the Tierney Three-time Grammy nominee for Best Jazz Vocal Album, the Tierney

Sutton Band will light up the night. Ticket sales benefi t Interval House– Sutton Band will light up the night. Ticket sales benefi t Interval House– preventing & breaking the cycle of domestic abuse. Order now!preventing & breaking the cycle of domestic abuse. Order now!

860.278.0785 ·AHCC.ORGAHCC.ORGOpen to and affirming of all God’s people · 814 Asylum Avenue, HartfordHartford

THETIERNEY SUTTON TIERNEY SUTTON BAND

A JOHN & EDIE MURPHY MUSIC FOR HUMANITY CONCERTA JOHN & EDIE MURPHY MUSIC FOR HUMANITY CONCERT

Save the DateNovember 13

Upcoming book discussion led by Rev. Erica Thompson!

“On God’s Side: What Religion Forgets and Politics Hasn’t Learned about Serving the Common Good”

by Jim Wallis

7860.525.5696 • www.ahcc.org Asylum Hill Congregational Church - Open to and affi rming of all God’s people

C H i L D R E n & F A M i L y M i n i S T R y

Registration for Spirit HillIn order to provide the safest environment possible for your children, it is necessary that we have up-to-date information on file. Please return a Spirit Hill Registration form for each child enrolled in Spirit Hill this fall to Kyle Cannon as soon as possible. If you did not receive a welcome letter and registration form, please let us know so we can add you to our records.

Single Parent Community Group Sunday, October 20, 11:30 a.m.

This fall a new group will be starting at AHCC. In response to requests from several parents, a group is forming to create a community of single parents who can together grow in faith and fellowship and while sharing practical parenting skills. The first meeting will be in Total Outreach. Each season will focus on a theme that resonates with single parents. The fall theme will be HOPE; the winter theme will be FORGIVE-NESS and the spring theme will be TRUST. A time for sharing particular concerns and prayer will be part of every gathering. Childcare will be available, but it is imperative that requests be made in advance so we can provide appropriate staffing levels. The schedule is as follows:

October 20: God is a Single Parent (connecting to God in the single parent journey) November 17: Hope for the Holidays (preparing for the joys and challenges of family celebrations) December 15: Reflections on Hope (readings, music and inspiration). Please contact Marcie Jackson (mjackson@ahcc.org) for more information and to request childcare.

Welcome Marcie Jackson - Director of Children and Family MinistriesMarcie Jackson is a lifelong Connecticut resident, born in Torrington and raised in East Hampton. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in 1995 with dual degrees in Early Childhood Education and Sociology, and in 2007 earned her MSEd in Museum Education Leadership from Bank Street College of Education in New York City.

Marcie has spent her adult life educating children and adults in both classroom and non-traditional settings. She taught preschool and kindergarten for seven years in Manchester, East Haddam and Newington, before starting a career in museum education. Marcie oversaw the education departments at the Lutz Chil-dren’s Museum, Manchester; Stanley-Whit-man House, Farmington and most recently at Hill-Stead Museum, Farmington.

Family is central to Marcie’s life. She lives in Southington with her husband, Daniel and ismother to Benjamin, age 2, who keeps her young and on her toes at all times, two wonderful stepchildren, Marissa, age 16, who loves animals and is currently working with horses in a therapeutic riding program, and Tyler, age 13, who plays both hockey and lacrosse, and her four-legged child, Maggie, a seven year old boxer, who thinks she is still a puppy.

When not teaching, Marcie loves being outdoors and is a dedicated gardener. She is excited to have recently learned the art of canning and has been busy preserving her garden’s summer bounty. Marcie is also an avid knitter, enjoys creating collages, and traveling with her family. Marcie is very excited to be joining AHCC on both a professional and personal level and looks forward to meeting the children and families of Spirit Hill.

8 Sign up for all events at the Opportunity Table unless otherwise specified.

OuTREACH AnD COMMuniTy

John AvignoneJohn Avignone serves as Assistant Secretary on the AHCC Board of Deacons, his first term. He joined Asylum Hill Congregational Church in 2006. John later served on the House Com-mittee to oversee small improvements at the church, and then the Membership Engagement Task Force to discuss ways to provide a more meaningful experience to all at AHCC in wor-ship, fellowship and ministry. John has also enjoyed serving as a shepherd and a teacher for Spirit Hill classes. In discussing the parallels of Passover, Seder, and the Last Supper, John was amused to find that his only Apostles were six third-grade girls. He’s quick to ad lib les-sons especially during technical difficulties; in discussing the Woman with the Alabaster Jar last spring, the projector’s remote malfunctioned, but John continued without it. Children and the rest of the congregation know John’s familiar face – both bearded and shaven. During the Gifts of Glass summer series, he appeared as John the Disciple. He returned two weeks later to fill in as James the Disciple, John’s brother. John also portrayed Jesus in the Walk to Em-maus in April. “Where else can a person find volunteer opportunities like these?” John smiles.

Outside of worship, John also works in the Asylum Hill neighborhood. He recently left his position as a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual to return to work in fundraising for non-profits - a previous career of 18 years. John is now the Director of Major Gifts and Annual Fund at the Village for Families and Children in Hartford. Founded 200 years ago, The Village provides behavioral treatment, foster care and adoption, interim care, support and services for 8,000 children at risk of abuse and neglect.

Civil Rights Activist at AHCCSaturday, October 12 youth event, Sunday, October 13 in worship

Dr. Bernard LaFayette has been a Civil Rights Movement activist, minister, educator, lecturer and is an authority on the strategy for nonviolent social change. He co-founded the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in 1960. He was a leader of the Nashville Movement in 1960, participated in the Freedom Rides of 1961 and the 1965 Selma Movement. Dr. LaFayette is former President of the American Baptist College of ABT Seminary in Nash-ville, Tennessee, former Scholar in Residence at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta, Georgia, and Pastor Emeritus of the Progressive Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. LaFayette has traveled extensively, inspiring the establishment of Kingian Nonviolence training institutes around the globe. Dr. Lafayette will be preaching at both services on Octo-

ber 13. On Saturday, October 12, our youth will have the opportunity to meet with and learn from Dr. LaFayette in a small group setting along with several Hartford young people who participated in Kingian Nonviolence training this summer and attended the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington. His presence with us is part of a larger effort to seed Kingian nonviolence principles in the Hartford community through a partnership of Step Up Step Out (SUSO) and the Connecticut Center for Nonviolence.

Rev. Dr. Bernard LaFayette

Step Up Step Out (SUSO)Multi-part Nonviolent Conflict Reconciliation Trainingnovember 13, 14 & 16

Make plans now to attend the nonviolence training retreat to learn ways to apply the principles of nonviolent conflict reconcilia-tion in our own lives and communities. The trainings, held at AHCC, will be led by Vic-toria Christgau of the Connecticut Center for Nonviolence (ctnonviolence.org) and will introduce us to the nonviolence philosophy and methodology of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. from which individuals and communities learn how to address conflict without resort-ing to violence. This approach can be applied to all forms of conflict to promote peace in the community. Sign up at the SUSO table outside of Drew Hall or contact John Joyce at (860)539-4599 or jjoyceandall@aol.com with questions.

MEET THE DEACOnS

9860.525.5696 • www.ahcc.org Asylum Hill Congregational Church - Open to and affirming of all God’s people