tidings - a community of christians, learning god’s ways ...€¦ · scripture’s message —-...
TRANSCRIPT
April 2015 TIDINGS Page
From the Pastor and Teacher
Dear Friends,
I receive daily reflections on the scripture from the Rev. Steve Garnaas-Holmes, a Presbyterian minister, who sends them out under the title “Unfolding Light.” He has a gift for pointing his readers to the heart of the scripture’s message — the light of wisdom and understanding that can grow, gradually as a dawn, out from God’s Word. As we approached Palm Sunday and Holy Week, Pastor Steve sent this message:
“Hosanna!
Blessed is the one who comes
in the name of the Lord!
Blessed is the coming kingdom
of our ancestor David!
Hosanna in the highest heaven!” —Mark 11.9-10
Jesus presents some street theater,
the new life enacted among us.
People love it for the moment,
but the Powers will have him killed,
and he knows it. He has a week to live.
How’s he going to create a kingdom?
One week. How’s he going to change the world?
continued on page 2…
Niantic Community Church 170 Pennsylvania Avenue
Niantic, CT 06357 Phone: (860) 739-6208
[email protected] www.NianticCommunityChurch.org
Pastor & Teacher:
The Rev. Dr. John A. Nelson
Community Minister: Patty Chaffee
Christian Education/ Youth Minister:
Russ Kirby
Music Minister: Richard Schenk
Choral Minister/ Bell Choir Director:
Lynne Floyd
Church Secretary: Judy Snitkin
Parish Nurses: Marie LaTourette, Donna Hathaway,
Edie Watrous
Lay Health Ministers: Jill Johnson, and Judi David
Children’s Center Director: Kathy Tiller
Worship Schedule: Sundays at
9:00 am and 11:15 am
A Federated Church of the United Church of Christ and the United Methodist Church
An Open, Affirming, Reconciling Congregation
Editor: Heather Larson
Tidings
Monthly news for members & friends from Niantic Community Church
April 2015
Inside This Issue:
Pastor’s Message.…….. 1-2
Easter Events…………. 5
Events …..……………. 6-8
Inspiring Generosity.…. 9
Nurturing Faith……….. 10-11
Calendar ……………… 13
NCC Jr High Youth Change Challenge Fundraiser for Wanakee Mission Trip. See more on Page 12.
We are a community of Christians: learning God’s ways; sharing God’s love; extending God’s peace and healing grace to all.
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 2
continued from page 1
He comes on a donkey. He talks. He heals.
No power, no strategy.
Really, not even a kingdom.
No plan but this: just
love people, and forgive them.
Share a meal. Wash their feet.
Love them and forgive them.
And trust God with the rest.
That’s it. No other power, no plan.
Just love and trust God,
who takes our love
and heals the world with it.
This is Jesus’ faith:
Do what you can. Do it with love.
Bless and heal and forgive along the way.
And trust that’s good enough for God.
It was good enough for Jesus.
Facing your trials, dealing with conflict,
confronting injustice, small as you are:
do what you can, do it with love,
bless and heal and forgive,
and trust God.
That alone will change the world.
That alone will save.
Watch.
At Easter, the long letting-go of Lent comes to an end — well, sort of. Maybe the Lenten practice is getting us ready for Easter performance: to keep on letting go of the commitments and attractions that don’t have the quality of blessing, or the quality of healing, or the quality of forgiveness.
I pray it can be so, for you: that Easter allows you to rediscover that you really have a reservoir of grace to give away, even to unlovely situations.
Easter says this: the love that God created in you is exactly what the world needs. Keep giving it away!
God’s richest blessings to you,
Pastor John A. Nelson
Holy Week Worship
April 2nd: Maundy Thursday, 7:00pm
Lectionary texts: Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14; Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; John 13:1-17, 31b-35
A service of foot washing and communion, led by members of the Confirmation class
April 3rd: Good Friday, 7:00pm
Lectionary texts: Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Psalm 22; Hebrews 10:16-25 or Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9; John 18:1–19:42
“The Last 24 Hours” — led by members of the Confirmation class
Easter Sunday, April 5th
Texts: Acts 10:34-43; Psalm 118:1-2, 14; 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; John 20:1-18
6am: Ecumenical Sunrise Service at McCook Point (rain location: Niantic Baptist church)
7:30am: Contemplative Communion Service
9:00 & 11:15am: Festival Resurrection Celebration
Pastor John A. Nelson, preaching: “Unburdened!”
Sunday Worship at 9:00 & 11:15am
April 12th: Second Sunday of Easter
Lectionary texts: Acts 4:32-35; Psalm 133; 1 John 1:1-2:2 John 20:19-31
Pastor John A. Nelson, preaching: “Joke’s on You”
April 19th: Third Sunday of Easter
Lectionary texts: Acts 8:26-40; Psalm 22:25-31; 1 John 4:7-21; John 15:1-8
Pastor John A. Nelson, preaching: “You Know What to (Not) Do”
April 26th: Fourth Sunday of Easter
Lectionary texts: Acts 8:26-40; Psalm 22:25-31; 1 John 4:7-21; John 15:1-8
Guest preacher TBA
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 3
President’s Quarterly
Hello NCC. I thought that it might be a good idea
for me to start a column in Tidings to share with
everyone the highlights of what has been happening
with the Prudential Board and any other topic that
bears mentioning. Let’s call it an unofficial quarterly
report.
At the Annual Meeting there was a vacancy for
the Church Clerk. Since then, Jennifer Datum has
agreed to accept that position and we are lucky to
have her as an NCC Officer. With the pledging that
was received after the Annual Meeting we were
able to bring committee budgets to 78% of the 2014
levels and fund the position of Gospel and
Children’s Choir Director. Nikki Rollins has served in
this position for many years as a volunteer and we
welcome her now as a staff member.
The CPACE project has been moving slowly, due
to some electrical complications that have been
resolved. We plan to sign contracts and move to
the next step in early April. Our Vice President,
Carole Glenn, has been working hard planning this
year’s fundraising dinners. The Traditional Suppers
will be July 7th and August 4th, Lobster Stew on July
21st, and a Calendar Dinner on October 17th…Save
the dates!
The Prudential Board has also been working on
its own mission statement, a statement that we as
leaders can refer to and help keep our focus faithful
to NCC’s mission. And, in order to keep our focus
sharp, NCC officers have asked that each board and
committee have a report to share on how their
ministry is actively engaging with church members
and neighbors, and how their ministry is responding
to their needs.
I hope this article serves its intentions on keeping
NCC and all its friends informed. If you have any
questions or comments please feel free to contact
me.
Al Larson
Habitat For Humanity News Habitat for Humanity looking for some volunteers who would be willing and able to become Faithful Framers. This is a group of people who volunteer one day a week on the building projects. We are looking for some individuals who would be willing to support the cause in this way. Anyone interested can contact Amanda Shanks at 860-442-7890 ext 201 or [email protected] for more information or to get started.
A Word of Thanks
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 4
Upcoming COFFEE HOUR hosts are:
April 5, 12, 19 – Finance/Stewardship
April 26, May 3, 10, 17 – Christian Ed
Deadline for the May edition
of Tidings is April 15th.
Please e-mail submissions to [email protected]
Blood Pressure Clinic between services every month on 2nd Sunday, next 4/12/15.
PARISH NURSE
BLOOD DRIVE Niantic Community Church hosted a blood drive on February 24th. According to the American Red Cross, our drive collected 21 units and will save up to 63 hospital patient lives. “You and your donors are true heroes. Thank you for your continued support of our hospital patients,” expressed Jennifer Gartsu, Donor Recruitment Manager at the American Red Cross, in an email to the church.
The next blood drive will be held on Friday, April 24th between 12:30 - 6:15 pm in the Dining Hall.
You took my place!
One day, a man went as a visitor to a church. He got
there early, parked his car and got out. Another
car pulled up near by and parked. The driver got out
and said, "I always park there! You took my place!"
The visitor went inside for the service, found an
empty seat and sat down. A young lady from the
church approached him and stated, "That's my seat!
You took my place!" The visitor was somewhat
distressed by this rude welcome, but still said
nothing.
After the service, the visitor went into the Sanctuary
and sat down to pray. Another member came up to
him and said, "That's where I always sit! You took
my place!" The visitor was even more troubled by
this treatment, but still said nothing.
Later as the congregation was praying for Christ to
dwell among them, the visitor stood up, and his
appearance began to change. His clothing became a
simple robe. Horrible scars became visible on his
hands and on his now sandaled feet. Someone from
the congregation noticed Him and called out, "What
happened to you?" The visitor replied, as His hat
became a crown of thorns, and a tear fell from his
eye, "I took your place!"
This is a powerful message...one that might just maybe get the world to start thinking of "who took our place." Submitted by Peg Herzberg
Have an hour or two to spare? A newspaper reader/companion is needed for one hour, once or twice a week on a regular basis for an aging church member in Black Point who has lost her eyesight. If you are a sports fan, all the better. Want to help? Call Community Minister, Patty Chaffee at (860) 739-6208.
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 5
Pancake Breakfast
The high school youth of Niantic Community Church will be hosting a come-and-go pancake breakfast on Easter morning, Sunday, April 5, 6:30-11:15 a.m. in the dining hall of the church. The homemade breakfast immediately follows the community's Ecumenical Sunrise Easter Service at McCook Park which begins at 6 a.m. A free will donation is requested for each individual served and donations will go toward the youth summer mission trip to New Orleans. The menu includes homemade buttermilk pancakes and syrup, fruit, sausage, milk and juice.
Labyrinth on the Beach
An Easter labyrinth made up of beach stones and driftwood, will be constructed on McCook’s beach on Saturday, April 4 around noon, provided the snow has melted by then. Volunteers are welcome and many hands are needed to build the labyrinth which is an ancient walking meditation. The seaside path will be left on the beach for public use and is a gift to the community by Niantic Community Church. The labyrinth is a nurturing faith activity of Parish Life Ministries.
EASTER EVENTS
Easter Egg Hunt
NCC’s annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held during coffee hour at 10:15 on Easter morning. All junior and senior high students are invited to stuff and hide Easter eggs in the Dining Hall during the 9:00 am worship service. See Russ Kirby for more information. The Egg Hunt is open to all children in grades PreK through 4th. The hunt will begin with the youngest age group and proceed until all have participated.
New Church Directory
Some of you have already had your picture taken for the directory. And others of you are signed up for April 10th or 11th. But for those of you who haven’t signed up...it’s not too late.
Because of the great response to these portrait opportunities, we’ve requested an additional day. Photo sessions can now be scheduled on Monday, April 20, between 2:00 and 9:00 p.m. You can sign up online at https://www.securedata-trans14.com/ap/nianticcommunitychurch/index.php?page=10. The site is easy to navigate, but if you find you need help, you can call or email Beth Collinge at 860-691-9277 or [email protected]. You can also sign up during coffee hour in the Dining Hall on Sundays.
Remember, there’s no cost to have your picture taken and everyone who does will get a free 8x10 of the pose they select to go in the directory as well as a copy of the directory itself which will also be available online. Of course, if you want to purchase copies of the portraits, you’ll have the chance to do that immediately following your photo session. If you identify yourself as military, police or firefighter, you get a 10% discount. And if you bring in a couple non-perishable goods for NCC’s food pantry at the time of your photo session, you’ll get an additional $5 off any pictures you purchase.
Our thanks to those who have already reserved a time to have their picture taken and those who will do so in the days ahead. We sincerely believe that this effort will bring us together in a more closely connected family of faith.
COMING IN MAY!!
The WCSA will be hosting an Afternoon Tea at 14 Lincoln Street on Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at 1:30 pm. 14 Lincoln Street, now a Bed & Breakfast, was once the home of the Congregational Church, one of NCC’s predecessors.
The tea is open to all women of the church at a cost $10.00 per person; however, due to space limitations, attendance will be by reservation only.
For reservations or more information please call Judy Layden(860-739-6741) or the church office (860-739-6208).
Please join us for tea and a look into the past of one of our former church homes!
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 6
EVENTS
BOOK CLUB
The Women's Fellowship Book Club has selected Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier as their next book.
Remarkable Creatures is the story of Mary Anning, who has a talent for finding fossils, and whose discovery of ancient marine reptiles such as that ichthyosaur shakes the scientific community and leads to new ways of thinking about the creation of the world.
Please join in a fun discussion on April 26, 2015 at 7:00 pm. Any questions, contact Carol Donovan at [email protected].
HISTORY QUIZ
Located in the multipurpose room we find Russ
Kirby's Youth Ministries office and next to it the
storage room for the choirs. This is not the original
use for these two rooms. Do you know what these
rooms were when the Christian Education wing was
built in 1968?
1. What was the first use of each area?
2. Where was the first choir room in 1961?
Follow us on Twitter (@NianticChurch) and like us on Facebook (facebook.com/NianticCommunityChurch).
NCC Men’s Spring Weekend Outing
Friday April 17-19, 2015
~ 2 spots still remaining ~
Trip includes: Saturday rafting trip on the Indian
River/Hudson Gorge with Beaver Brook Outfitters on
Class III and IV rapids. www.beaverbrook.net Two
nights accommodations in the Main House at
Adirondack Cabins at Mill Creek in Johnsbury, NY
www.adirondackscabins.com Saturday evening
and Sunday morning spiritual program in Main
House. Meals included but bring your own snacks.
Cost: $185 due by April 3rd.
For more information contact:
Ron Deziel (860-739-8063) [email protected]
Ron Johnson (860-287-0759) [email protected]
Craig Holch (860-451-8711) [email protected]
Women's Christian Service Association
Saturday, April 25th 9:00 am — 12:00 pm
Items needed are:
Clothing - men, women & children
Shoes
Linens and bedding
Toys, sports equipment (except skis)
Household and kitchen items.
(Please - no computers, typewriters,
furniture, rugs or anything heavy.)
For questions, call Karen Peacock at 860-739-9996 or Carol June at 860-739-8851.
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 7
19th Annual NCC Women’s Retreat
Between the Tides: Walking Life's Uncertain Shores
May 1 - 3, 2015
Ellen and Erin Bodin, leaders
St. Edmund’s Retreat Ender’s Island, Mystic, CT
The 19th annual NCC Women’s Retreat will be May 1-3 2015 at Enders Island. Ellen and Erin Bodin will be the retreat leaders. Ellen, a past member of NCC, is a graduate of the Spiritual Direction Practicum at Mercy Center. Erin is a graduate of St. Michael's College and former Assistant Director of M.O.V.E. (Mobilization of Volunteer Efforts) at St. Michael's. She received her MFA in creative writing from Stonecoast College in 2014. They have been facilitating retreats together since 2012.
Program begins with dinner at 5:30 Friday, concluding Sunday after lunch.
Registration: $170 incl. 2 nights lodging (sleeping bags not required) & 6 meals
$60 for Saturday only
Scholarships are available (See Pastor John Nelson)
Make your reservation with a $50 down payment prior to April 13th deadline.
Full payment is due no later than April 22.
Make checks payable to Women's Fellowship Board.
For reservations contact: Carol Donovan (860) 857-7945 or
[email protected] Patty Chaffee (860) 739-6208 or
Thinking about signing up for the Women’s Retreat? Not sure what to expect? Two women who have attended retreats in the past were asked to reflect on their experiences. Here’s their inside scoop.
"Why would I want to go on a church’s Woman's Retreat?" If you live in a family, you might want to go on retreat in order to have a little time to relax away from other household members or chores perhaps.
If you live alone you may want to relax with friends.
Sometimes folks bring friends who would also benefit from a time apart (the friend may or may not be a member of Niantic Community Church).
At any women's retreat I've ever been a part of there are shared meals; who wouldn't want someone else to cook and clean up the meal while you just enjoy it.
At most retreats there is usually some free time, some worship time and usually a retreat leader. Retreat leaders often share with us and encourage us to share our faith journeys, no matter what the step we are on. Retreats are safe places to share our questions about faith or just life in general. Often we share scripture and our understanding or questions raised by the scripture.
I have experienced many different retreat leaders at women's retreats both in San Diego and Niantic. The one thing I can say is that each was different and each was a blessing in my faith journey and/or spiritual renewal. For myself I wouldn't want to miss a single one in my faith community. They have provided me with a deeper faith, more sisters for the journey of faith, and a time of relaxation and growth.
~ Ocean Pellett
P.S. No two retreats are the same, as leaders are different and the group of women who come varies. My suggestion is "try it"; you’ll never know if you'll like it, if you don't try it. Not sure you want to spend the entire weekend, try coming on Saturday only.
Have you wondered what happens on the Women's Retreat? There is time for spiritual reflection and learning, time to reconnect with old friends and make new ones, time to be alone if you want and so much more. There is talking, praying, learning, laughing, worship, singing, eating, walking and more talking! From the time we arrive until we depart St. Edmunds, whether you attend for the entire weekend or Saturday only, the Women's Retreat is a time you will not forget. ~ Carol Donovan
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 8
It’s time to start hiking again. The NCC Hikers will meet at the church at 9:00 am on April 11th. They will be hiking the Nehantic Blue Trail from Hopeville Pond to Mt. Misery. (Pachaug State Forest located in the towns of Griswold and Voluntown). This is a five mile hike where cars will be left at both Hopeville Pond and Mt. Misery since it is not a loop. Map enclosed below. https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?msa=0&mid=z25mGJrOAwfs.k3D1DvFMjYKw Contact Ron Johnson at [email protected] if you have any questions.
Kristen Graves Connecticut State
Troubadour
and
Baird Welch-Collins
In Concert At Niantic Community
Church
May 2nd at 7pm
Kristen is a folk singer /song writer and the current Connecticut State Troubadour from Fairfield CT. She performs catchy songs, funny stories, and inspirational lyrics. She has performed with David Amran, Pete Seeger, and Peter Yarrow to name a few. She has 5 albums and 2 EP's to her credit. Opening for Kristen is Baird Welch-Collins with his delightful singing and guitar/banjo. This is a family friendly show that will have you singing along and tapping your toes. The youth group will benefit from some of the proceeds as well as Kristen's Simple Smiles outreach project. Tickets at the door ~ adults $15.00, children $5.00 Mark your calendars. You will come away smiling. Any questions contact Cricket Murphy at [email protected] or Russ Kirby at [email protected].
History Quiz Answer
Answer: Russ' Office was the church secretaries
office and the closet was the Christian Ed.
storeroom. The first choir room was located where
the scullery is off the dining hall. A special sound
proof choir and practice room was added with the
Christian Education wing. That room is now the
Children's Center office. When Rev. Laurie Etter
came as associate pastor in 1980 the Christian Ed.
closet became her office. With the office addition in
1986 those rooms were designated for Christian Ed.
Trivia: In 1961before the Christian Ed. addition the
first Pastor’s office and the church office that Rev.
Allen Tinkham and Jeanne McNeil used were in the
area of the upstairs bathrooms.
A heartwarming example of selfless giving...
At one Philly pizza parlor, customers can "pay it forward" by pre-purchasing $1 slices of pizza for people in need. See the whole story at http://www.post-gazette.com/news/portfolio/2015/01/17/Portfolio-Philadelphia-pizza-shop-clients-pay-it-forward-buy-slices-for-homeless/stories/201501170028
Thursday, April 30, 2015
While Pay it Forward Day focuses on marketing the concept of selfless giving for just one day a year, everyday can be Pay it Forward Day by connecting to the Pay it Forward Foundation at http://www.payitforwardfoundation.org/
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 9
Inspiring Generosity…
We are surrounded by those who inspire us to give, work, and live generously.
Honoring the Gifts of the Maintenance Committee
Have you ever noticed that when something needs repair at Niantic Community Church, it seems to miraculously happen? From small fixes to painting the sanctuary, these projects get done. This is because of the Maintenance Committee, who take on these projects to keep things running smoothly at NCC. The Maintenance Committee takes care of the building, grounds, and parsonage throughout the year. They hire contractors to do big jobs, keep up with smoke detectors, and fix problems as they come up. Everyone at NCC benefits from their service. The heating and air conditioning that keeps us comfortable on Sunday mornings throughout the year are maintained largely in part by this committee. Many people have been on this committee serving the church for a long time. Al Larson has been on the committee for almost ten years. An important member, Roe Granger, stepped down this year after serving even longer. He has been a part of many important projects. Jim Agles, co-chair of the committee, remembers when the daycare window units were replaced. “Roe personally removed the old heavy window units and took them to the dump.” Jim continues, “Roe's departure from the committee will no doubt be noticed; he inspired others to rise to the occasion and as a result maintenance accomplished a lot with limited financial resources.” Thank you to the Maintenance Committee for all that you do!
Emily Mills Communications Committee
(L-R) Cheryl & Oliver Smith, Mary Brodhead, Peter Crizer, Sandy Kuchta, Betty Ventry, Kristen Burkhardt & Zack DeMaio officially joined our congregation on March 8th. Although he was unable to attend the reception, Trux Brodhead (far right) also joined the church. Please extend a warm welcome to the newest members of our church family.
Welcome New Members
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 10
Nurturing Faith
Sacred Source Painting
Prayer/Meditation/Painting/Sharing
A universal creative process that returns you
to your natural state of oneness with the
divine Source….many have found this process
genuinely transformative. Awaken your
artist’s soul with painting in its most basic
form.
Free your
creative spirit!
For every ability...even if you’ve never picked
up a paintbrush. Materials and inspiration
provided.
2nd Friday of each month 10:00 a.m. -1:30 p.m.
Bring a bag lunch. $5 materials fee (if you are able)
Registration required. Call church office.
Facilitated by Community Minister, Patty Chaffee (860) 739-6208
The Healing Art of Photography
An interactive program that will require a
camera, and time outside of the group
session to respond to a monthly
assignment. Inspired by the book, God is at
Eye Level by Jan Phillips.
Discover God from behind the lens
No high tech skills needed
A fun/supportive group
Thought provoking & challenging
1st Thursday of each month
7:00-8:30 p.m.
FREE !
Facilitated by Community Minister,
Patty Chaffee (860) 739-6208
Anything Goes …minimize, simplify, organize
How it works: 1. Bring unwanted items that you want to give away. If
you can carry it, you can bring it. Bring as much as you want.
2. Bring one non-perishable food item for the NCC Food Pantry and a brown bag lunch to enjoy following the exchange.
3. Each participant offers their items in turn. See what others have to give away and claim all you want. Any unclaimed items will be donated to charity immediately following our gathering.
Why?
1. Because it’s an opportunity to clean out, get organized. Letting go of what we no longer want/need, makes room for what IS important to us.
2. Discover the spirituality of being organized during thoughtful reflections and discussion over lunch.
3. Break bread and enjoy fellowship with like minded souls.
4. Support the NCC emergency food pantry.
10 a.m. on the 3rd Monday of each month
April 20 May 18
(Contact Community Minister, Patty Chaffee with questions)
Fellowship Room, Niantic Community Church 170 Pennsylvania Ave., Niantic (860)739-6208
NCC PRAYER WALL
Visit the NCC Prayer Wall at http://www.nianticcommunitychurch.org/prayers to review prayers, indicate that you have prayed for the concerns and joys submitted by others, and add your own prayer requests. You may also send prayer requests to [email protected]. All posts are automatically added to the ongoing prayer chain.
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 11
Don’t know how to knit? We’ll teach you ! Don’t have any yarn? We’ll provide it !
Need a pattern? We have em ! Prefer to crochet? That’s okay !
Bring a friend to the Fellowship Room at NCC located at 170 Pennsylvania Ave., Niantic, CT. (860)739-6208.
Save the Date and join us on the 4th Tuesday of each month for the Niantic Community Church
Prayer Shawl Ministry 2015
April 28 May 26 June 23 July 28 August 25
September 22 October 27
November 24 December 22
Use your faith to create an active, successful dating process for
casual dating and/or a life mate
Join Us !
Wednesdays, Apr 15/May 20/Jun 17 Time: 6-8pm In the Parish Life Ministry office It’s FREE – And all are welcome ! Facilitated by Carol Vara
Niantic Community Church 170 Pennsylvania Ave, Niantic, CT 06357
(860)739-6208
WCSA News Women's Christian Service Association (WCSA) met on March 17th. Millie Burke of Guiding Eyes for the Blind was our guest speaker. This not-for-profit organization was formed in 1956 to train guide dogs to lead the blind, and visually impaired, in addition to those with developmental or physical challenges. Millie is pictured here with Tartan, her retired Guiding Eyes for the Blind dog. In April, WCSA will be packaging up Hygiene Kits for World Health Service. Nail Clippers, wide-tooth combs, and toothbrushes (singly packaged) are always in need.
All women in the church are welcome and invited to attend our meetings.
Contact Karen Peacock, 860-739-9996 or Carol June, 860-739-8851 for more information.
Crystal Bowl Meditation
Nikki Rollins In the News!
Check out her story at: http://www.theday.com/local/20150317/courthouse-worker-by-day-stage-star-by-night
Celebrate Holy Week with a Crystal Bowl Meditation guided by Donna Hathaway at NCC on April 1st, 6:00-7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
This is a Nurturing Faith event. A free will offering is requested.
Contact Patty Chaffee with questions. 860-739-6208.
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 12
CHANGE CHALLENGE CHAMPS The 2015 Change Challenge has been a fundraiser of the Niantic Community Church Junior High Youth, who raise
money each year for “Wanakee,” an annual weekend mission trip to a New Hampshire community farm where they
work to help underprivileged folks keep up the farm, grow their own food and make money to keep the farm going
another year. This year’s trip will be April 24-26, 2015. Donations made in the names of this year’s “Change
Challenge” came to $927.04, all of which goes toward the Wanakee Mission Trip. Thanks to everyone for lifting up
these people who change their part of the world, and who challenge us to do likewise. Thanks, also, for supporting
Wanakee!
Mary Mirecki…She is an inspiration to me musically, by: Nan Rigdon Mrs. Kuvalanka…She is the faculty advisor for the East Lyme Middle School Service Club, by: The Yale Family Ron Johnson…Wonderful commitment to our church, he is involved in every aspect of NCC, by: Craig Holch Russ Kirby…He is equally kind to everybody and donates so much of his time to things he cares about, by: Meghan McCauley Kiersten Potts…Active leader in her youth group at church, a student leader at school. Sought after babysitter in her neighborhood, by: Anonymous Rachel Maddow…Political Awareness, by: Anonymous Jerry Gilstad...Jerry makes use of his time in retirement by serving others. He’s out there delivering bread, doing taxes, attending Bible studies--he is a real witness wherever he goes, by: Anonymous Ean Oliver…He challenges me to be better in all aspects of my life; he's sure made a difference in my life, by: Russ Kirby Joanne Moore…Founded Akritis Kids: providing financial support to disabled children in an orphanage in India, Editor for Pathfinder--Journal for Widowers, Leads Care Givers support Group, Labyrinth Ministry, by: Anonymous Martin Luther King…Freedom and Equality for all, by: Anonymous Roe Granger…Without Roe the church would fall down, by: Lew Meier Jeannette Woodworth…Stewardship to the church, by: Edie Watrous Peggy Herzberg…For her constant smiles, by: Anonymous Roe Granger…For his beautiful voice, by: Anonymous Carol Donovan…For her loyalty to NCC, by: Anonymous Jennifer Munzner…For all she does in so many ways, by: Anonymous Baird Welch-Collins…For his beautiful music, by: Anonymous Allie Martin…As a Girl Scout she has done good for the community, by: Anonymous Betty & John Mahon…They created the Barbara fund at York, help with Habitat for Humanity and much more, by: Pam McCauley Dick Robinson…Always available for help with sound system and other electrical needs. Spends many hours at NCC, by: Anonymous Liz Kuchta…Shares her vast knowledge of church and local history, by: Anonymous Ocean Pellett…For her work in United Action, by: Joanne Moore Pastor John Nelson…Great sermons and great sense of humor, by: Anonymous Anne Gonsalves…Ann has been instrumental in the music ministry at NCC and has always been willing to work in the kitchen for suppers and to cook for any occasion, by: Anonymous Ron Johnson…He brings people together and makes them feel welcome, by: Anonymous Judy Snitkin…The friendly face of NCC and the glue that holds much of it together, by: Anonymous The Mazzulli Family…My support, by: Anonymous Doris Beebe…Rarely takes a day off from doing for others, by: Anonymous Ocean Pellett…Ocean has worked tirelessly in the area of Social Justice issues. Her commitment has helped many understand the importance of this topic in our state, by: Anonymous
Jr. High Youth Wanakee Teams…(Past and present) For helping Jen at her Heifer Farm, by: Ocean Pellett Dick Robinson…He works tirelessly to make sure the word (or music) is heard, by: Anonymous Joanne Moore…Figuring out how to help handicapped orphans in Napal, by: Ocean Pellett Ned Ruete…Reminds us of our capacity to do God's work, by: Joanne Moore Anne Davis…For the Soup Kitchen community meals, by: Anonymous The Team at limbitless-solutions.org…Develop custom-made 3D printed bionic limbs for children with any type of amputation, by: Walt Bobrowski Anne Davis…Quietly working behind the scenes to serve those in need, by: Anonymous Russ Kirby…His joy in the Lord and in service sometimes hides a deep and serious faith, by: Anonymous Joanne Moore…For Akriti Kids and Pathfinder Magazine, by: Anonymous Anne Gonsalves…Supporting many projects and activities in the church: Operation Love, Youth Fundraisers, music ministry, Jack Frost Bazaar--wherever she can contribute, by: Anonymous Mary Mirecki…Lives in faith and praise, by: Anonymous Ocean Pellett…Works hard to bring her faith to action, by: Anonymous Liz Kuchta…Historian with never-ending knowledge of NCC and town history, by: Anonymous Jennifer Munzner…A beautiful example of a Christian who gives herself in service and teaches her children to do the same, by: Anonymous Deb Fountain…Unflagging commitment to the well-being of the community, especially focusing on hunger, by: Anonymous Ron Johnson…Important role in church's decision to become "Open and Affirming", hospital visitor, organizer of Men's Retreat, active in Chancel and Men's Choirs, by: Anonymous Pam McCauley…She makes the world a whole lot better for me and for many others who are no longer able to do things for themselves. Pam doesn't "just clean houses," she exemplifies trust, honesty and caring. As my friend said, she "couldn't get along without her." A wonderful, smart person. We are blessed to have her in our lives and in our church, by: Edna Gilstad Russell Kirby…He gives me fever, then heals me of it, by: Ean Oliver Mrs. Joan Abbott...Second grade teacher at Lillie B. Haynes. Made class and learning fun. She makes the day more fun. She gives the children the confidence and encouragement to become lifelong learners, by: The Munzner Family Ean Oliver…By his presence and the way he lives his life, he's an agent of change for the LGBTQ community in the world and in NCC, by: Anonymous Nina Beebe…Raising 2 beautiful children, her guidance and faith, unwavering love for all, by: Tom, Dean, Alina Susan Brown and Jennifer Datum…Their dedication to NCC through their leadership of the Jack Frost Bazaar, by: Judy Snitkin All who have made a difference in their own way, by: Sue and Rich Basham
April 2015 TIDINGS Page 13
Su
nd
ay
Mo
nd
ay
Tu
esd
ay
Wed
nes
day
T
hu
rsd
ay
Fri
day
S
atu
rday
1 9:
00 A
M D
isci
ple
IV
(Fel
low
ship
Roo
m)
6:00
PM
Cry
stal
Bow
l Med
ita-
tion
(SA
) 6:
30 P
M D
isci
ple
II (F
R)
7:30
PM
NA
(D
H)
2 7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s P
l) 6:
00 P
M C
onfir
mat
ion
Cla
ss (
Mau
ndy
Thu
rs. S
ervi
ce)
7:00
PM
Mau
nd
y T
hu
rsd
ay W
ors
hip
(SA
) 8:
00 P
M A
A-T
hurs
(D
H)
8:00
PM
Adu
lt C
hoir
Reh
ears
al
(San
ctua
ry)
3 6:00
PM
Con
firm
atio
n C
lass
(Goo
d F
riday
wor
ship
SA
) 7:
00 P
M G
oo
d F
rid
ay
Wo
rsh
ip (
SA
)
4 Ho
ly S
atu
rday
10
:00
AM
AA
("F
amily
frie
nd-
ly")
(M
/FR
) 7:
30 P
M A
A (
DH
)
5 EA
ST
ER
SU
ND
AY
Mus
ic b
y G
ospe
l Cho
ir 7:
30 A
M W
ors
hip
9:
00 A
M W
ors
hip
11
:15
AM
Wo
rsh
ip
6:00
PM
Hig
h S
choo
l Fel
low
ship
(She
lter)
6 6:30
PM
Mus
ic &
Wor
ship
Art
s
Com
m. (
O)
6:30
PM
Ope
n, A
ffirm
ing,
Rec
onci
l-
ing
Com
m. (
FR
) 6:
45 P
M C
hris
tian
Ed.
Com
mitt
ee
(TB
A))
7:00
PM
Com
mun
icat
ions
Com
mit-
tee
(PLO
) 7:
00 P
M T
oast
mas
ters
(D
H)
7 7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s P
l) 5:
45 P
M C
hild
ren'
s C
hoir
(SA
) 6:
15 P
M G
ospe
l Cho
ir (S
A)
6:15
PM
You
th B
ells
(M
) 7:
00 P
M A
dult
Bel
ls (
M)
7:00
PM
Boy
Sco
uts
(DH
) 7:
00 P
M M
en's
Cho
ir (S
A)
7:00
PM
Par
ishL
ifeM
in. (
FR
) 7:
00 P
M W
orsh
ip T
eam
(P
LO)
8 9:00
AM
Dis
cipl
e IV
(Fel
low
ship
Roo
m)
6:30
PM
Dis
cipl
e II
(FR
) 7:
30 P
M N
A (
DH
)
9 7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s P
l) 7:
00 P
M A
dult
Cho
ir R
ehea
rsal
(San
ctua
ry)
8:00
PM
AA
-Thu
rs (
DH
)
10
10:0
0 A
M S
acre
d S
ourc
e
Pai
ntin
g (F
R/M
) 3:
30 P
M C
hurc
h D
irect
ory
Pic
ture
s (M
/You
th R
oom
s)
11
10:0
0 A
M A
A (
"Fam
ily fr
iend
-
ly")
(D
H)
10:0
0 A
M C
hurc
h D
irect
ory
Pic
ture
s (M
/You
th R
oom
s)
7:30
PM
AA
(D
H)
12
Mus
ic b
y C
hild
ren'
s C
hoir
9:00
AM
Wo
rsh
ip
10:2
0 A
M D
ance
Cho
ir (S
A)
11:1
5 A
M W
ors
hip
1:
00 P
M E
.L.H
isto
rical
Soc
iety
Lec
-
ture
(D
H)
13
5:45
PM
NC
C C
hild
ren'
s C
ente
r
Boa
rd (
M)
6:15
PM
Chu
rch
Offi
cers
(P
asto
r's
Stu
dy)
7:00
PM
Fin
ance
Com
mitt
ee (
FR
) 7:
00 P
M S
afe
Chu
rch
Com
mitt
ee
(O)
14
7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s
Pla
ce)
5:45
PM
Chi
ldre
n's
Cho
ir (S
A)
6:15
PM
Gos
pel C
hoir
(SA
) 6:
15 P
M Y
outh
Bel
ls (
M)
7:00
PM
Adu
lt B
ells
(M
) 7:
00 P
M B
oy S
cout
s (D
H)
7:00
PM
Mai
nten
ance
(O
) 7:
00 P
M M
en's
Cho
ir (S
A)
7:30
PM
Ste
war
dshi
p C
omm
ittee
(F
R)
15
9:00
AM
Dis
cipl
e IV
(Fel
low
ship
Roo
m)
6:00
PM
Chr
istia
n S
ingl
es &
Dat
ing
(PLM
)(M
PR
) 6:
30 P
M D
isci
ple
II (F
R)
6:30
PM
The
Pow
er o
f Tog
eth-
er S
EC
T (
SA
) 7:
30 P
M N
A (
DH
)
16
7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s P
l) 7:
00 P
M A
dult
Cho
ir R
ehea
rsal
(San
ctua
ry)
8:00
PM
AA
-Thu
rs (
DH
)
17
Men
's R
etre
at
18
10:0
0 A
M A
A (
"Fam
ily fr
iend
-
ly")
(M
/FR
) 7:
30 P
M A
A (
DH
)
19
Hym
n S
ing
9:00
AM
Wo
rsh
ip
10:2
0 A
M D
ance
Cho
ir (S
A)
11:1
5 A
M W
ors
hip
20
10:0
0 A
M A
nyth
ing
Goe
s (F
R)
2:00
PM
Chu
rch
Dire
ctor
y P
ictu
res
(M/Y
outh
Roo
ms)
7:
00 P
M P
rude
ntia
l Boa
rd (
FR
) 7:
00 P
M T
oast
mas
ters
(D
H)
21
7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s P
l) 1:
00 P
M W
CS
A (
FR
/M)
5:45
PM
Chi
ldre
n's
Cho
ir (S
A)
6:15
PM
Gos
pel C
hoir
(SA
) 6:
15 P
M Y
outh
Bel
ls (
M)
7:00
PM
Adu
lt B
ells
(M
) 7:
00 P
M B
oy S
cout
s (D
H)
7:00
PM
Men
's C
hoir
(SA
)
22
9:00
AM
Dis
cipl
e IV
(Fel
low
ship
Roo
m)
6:30
PM
Dis
cipl
e II
(FR
) 7:
30 P
M N
A (
DH
)
23
7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s P
l) 6:
30 P
M C
onfir
mat
ion
Cla
ss (
FR
) 7:
00 P
M A
dult
Cho
ir R
ehea
rsal
(San
ctua
ry)
8:00
PM
AA
-Thu
rs (
DH
)
24
1:30
PM
Am
eric
an R
ed
Cro
ss B
lood
Driv
e (D
H)
2:30
PM
NL
Sou
p K
itche
n
Mea
l Pre
p (K
) 7:
00 P
M D
rum
Circ
le (
M)
25
9:00
AM
NL
Sou
p K
itche
n
Mea
l Pre
p (K
) 10
:00
AM
AA
("F
amily
frie
nd-
ly")
(M
/FR
) 7:
30 P
M A
A (
DH
)
26
9:00
AM
Wo
rsh
ip
10:2
0 A
M D
ance
Cho
ir (S
A)
11:1
5 A
M W
ors
hip
27
6:00
PM
Out
reac
h C
omm
ittee
(M
) 7:
00 P
M P
erso
nnel
(P
LO)
7:00
PM
PP
RC
(F
R)
28
7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s P
l) 5:
45 P
M C
hild
ren'
s C
hoir
(SA
) 6:
15 P
M G
ospe
l Cho
ir (S
A)
6:15
PM
You
th B
ells
(M
) 7:
00 P
M A
dult
Bel
ls (
M)
7:00
PM
Boy
Sco
uts
(DH
) 7:
00 P
M M
en's
Cho
ir (S
A)
7:00
PM
Pra
yer
Sha
wl K
nitti
ng (
FR
)
29
9:00
AM
Dis
cipl
e IV
(Fel
low
ship
Roo
m)
6:30
PM
Dis
cipl
e II
(FR
) 7:
30 P
M N
A (
DH
)
30
7:15
AM
Bib
le S
tdy
Brk
fst (
Cha
rlie'
s P
l) 7:
00 P
M A
dult
Cho
ir R
ehea
rsal
(San
ctua
ry)
8:00
PM
AA
-Thu
rs (
DH
)
1 5:00
PM
Con
firm
atio
n Lo
ck-
In (
FR
/M/D
H)
5:30
PM
Wom
en's
Ret
reat
5/1-
3 (E
nder
s Is
land
)
2 10:0
0 A
M A
A (
"Fam
ily fr
iend
-
ly")
(M
/FR
) 12
:00
PM
Con
firm
atio
n Lo
ck-I
n
End
s 7:
00 P
M K
riste
n G
rave
s
Con
cert
(S
A/M
) 7:
30 P
M A
A (
DH
)
AP
RIL
CA
LE
ND
AR