Christmas can be a time of wonder and beauty. It is for many people a time of remembering and celebrating the good things in life. It is a time for renewal of love and it is and can be a time of joy. However, for many people the holidays are anniversaries of grief. For some this Christmas season will be their first one alone after a death or a divorce. For some, the approach of the season of joy is filled with sadness and even anger as they struggle to find work or deal with the news of a disease that is threatening their whole way of life.
It is hard to get through the holidays because we do not want our struggle to dampen anyone else’s celebration. So, for some, this season is a time of isolation and loneliness. The isolation can add to the sadness and in the end it makes for some pretty rough times while everyone else seems to be so happy.
On December 21st at 7:30, Pastor Lou and the caring ministry team will host a gathering for people who find the season difficult in some way. We will meet in the sanctuary and there will be a time of sharing and prayer. This will be very short and informal. There will be music and opportunity to support each other. There will be one or two people who will talk about their experiences. Then we will gather in the new reception hall and talk and have some refreshments, perhaps a warm cup of coffee or tea at a table with people in similar situations.
December 21st is the longest night of the year. The darkness is all around by this time of the year, and we will gather to share the light of understanding and friendship. This is not a worship service and it is not a Christmas service. It is a gathering to share our experience, our strength and our hope.
Please come to this gathering and share the comfort we can provide for each other. You may want to invite someone to come with you. Perhaps you know a co-worker or a neighbor that is having a tough time. This is a great way to show you care and extend yourself in love. Invite them to come and offer to come with them.
For all the ways the celebration of Christmas has developed over the years it has always been a message of hope in a time of struggle. Let this year be a time when that hope can become real and personal in a gathering that is safe and friendly. Mark the date and come for a time. The whole gathering will be just one hour from the start to the finish.
God Bless you in the season of wonder and hope.
Louis
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Prayer Concerns
Marv Lippman*, Daryl Thomas*, Bill Stalker*, Elizabeth Caputo (friend of Carol Wilson*), Jennifer Krunkosky (friend of Val Yacik*), Carol Kirby-Trojahn*, Nest Clark*, Cindy Slater (niece of Tammy Newbold*), Virginia Weber (friend of Betty Compton*), Andy Biedermann*, David Michels (son of Andree΄ & Bill Michels*), Carol Kirby-Trojahn*, Cindy Slater (niece of Tammy Newbold*), Peter D’Amato (friend of Gary Wilkinson *)
Bereaved:
The family of Tom D’Angelo (brother of Marie Malone*)
The family of Carl Sultzbaugh (cousin of Val Yacik*)
The family of Ruth McDowell*
The family of Gerald Gugel (uncle of Alan Gugel*)
* indicates member of the congregation
Serving in the military:
Jeremiah Havill, Tom Gilley, DeeAnn Snyder, Jerome Barbour, Tom Zena, Bob Turner, Steve Niblett, Josh & Heather Sprowls, Jeff Tourcotte, Patrick Kelly, Matt Hendrick, Robert Abud, David Gaitonde, Bahar Mandanizadehsafi, Nichole (Nikki) Haase, Lisa Garcia, Michael & Anthony Decario, Anne Cassara, Michael Lippman
Bereaved:
The family of Tom D’Angelo (brother of Marie Malone*)
The family of Carl Sultzbaugh (cousin of Val Yacik*)
The family of Ruth McDowell*
The family of Gerald Gugel (uncle of Alan Gugel*)
* indicates member of the congregation
Serving in the military:
Jeremiah Havill, Tom Gilley, DeeAnn Snyder, Jerome Barbour, Tom Zena, Bob Turner, Steve Niblett, Josh & Heather Sprowls, Jeff Tourcotte, Patrick Kelly, Matt Hendrick, Robert Abud, David Gaitonde, Bahar Mandanizadehsafi, Nichole (Nikki) Haase, Lisa Garcia, Michael & Anthony Decario, Anne Cassara, Michael Lippman
2008 Flower Chart
The 2008 Flower Chart is posted in the PFC hallway. If you have a favorite date when you would like to provide flowers for the worship services, please sign the chart on the appropriate date. You will be reminded during the week before "your" date and can decide on the wording for the worship bulletin at that time.
There are numerous 2008 dates still available.
There are numerous 2008 dates still available.
Christmas Brunch: Sunday, December 16th
The Fellowship Commission invites you to join with one another for a Christmas Brunch on the 16th of December between the services at 10:15 a.m.
Let's take this opportunity to visit and celebrate our fellowship with each other before Christmas. Please see the sign-up sheet and bring a baked item or favorite holiday dish to share!!
{There has been a personal request for that scrumptious chili once again !!}
Let's take this opportunity to visit and celebrate our fellowship with each other before Christmas. Please see the sign-up sheet and bring a baked item or favorite holiday dish to share!!
{There has been a personal request for that scrumptious chili once again !!}
2007 Christmas Joy Offering
For nearly 70 years, Presbyterians have given generously at Christmas to support unmet needs of families who have given their lives to the mission of the Presbyterian Church, (U.S.A.). This offering also supports racial ethnic education, helping students develop their gifts and find their calling. Today the Christmas Joy Offering continues to meet the needs of those students as well as helping families of active and retired church workers to meet unexpected needs.
Our Christmas Joy Offering will be dedicated on December 23. Please be generous in your giving.
Our Christmas Joy Offering will be dedicated on December 23. Please be generous in your giving.
Our Newest Members...
Alicia & Matt Argano are residents of Greenbrook and are currently expecting their first child. Matt is a senior Director with The Children’s Place & Disney stores. Alicia is a massage therapist who is self-employed. She is formerly a member of First Presbyterian Church of Cranford.
Michael & Jill Fackelman reside in Piscataway. Michael is a Music Educator at Roosevelt Intermediate School in Westfield. Jill is a Health Educator at Westfield High School, currently on a child rearing leave raising their 4 month old twins, Michael John and Jordyn Marie. In addition they have three older daughters, Elizabeth, Lauren and Julia Fackelman. Elizabeth and Lauren attend high school and Julia is in the middle school.
Hannah Kerwin has been the Director of Bound Brook Memorial Library for the past seven years. She resides in Chatham and formerly was a member of Stanley Congregational Church, Chatham, and the Metuchen Presbyterian Church. Hannah’s daughter Calandra attends Drexel University and her twin sons, Perry & Bennett, are in third grade.
M. LaVerne & William Miner are residents of Arbor Glen, Bridgewater, having moved their homes from Watertown, MA & Washington, DC, seven years ago. Of their 15 year commuter marriage, the Miners describe themselves as being old-fashioned—that is, they were married 15 years before they started living together! A Philadelphia native, LaVerne earned a Master’s degree from the University of Rochester, a Certificate of Advanced Studies from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. She taught French & Spanish and retired in 1997 after having taught in Watertown Public Schools for 24 years. Bill is a native of Wooster, OH and received a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan, a Ph.D. in social policy & social planning from Brandeis University and an honorary LL.D. degree from the College of Wooster. Bill has worked in social work & public health education and in community & urban development overseas for the American Friends Service Committee, the United Nations & the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). He retired from USAID in 1998 after 37 years. Music has been a big part of their lives. At Arbor Glen, LaVerne accompanies the Arbor Glen Singers on piano & organ. Bill directs the community sing-alongs. In October 2005 he was elected vice-president of the Arbor Glen Residents’ Association and became president in October 2006. In that capacity he is a member ‘ex officio’ of the Board of Directors of Friends Retirement Concepts, Inc. Both have been selected as Living Treasures—Bill in 2003 and LaVerne in 2006.
Michael & Jill Fackelman reside in Piscataway. Michael is a Music Educator at Roosevelt Intermediate School in Westfield. Jill is a Health Educator at Westfield High School, currently on a child rearing leave raising their 4 month old twins, Michael John and Jordyn Marie. In addition they have three older daughters, Elizabeth, Lauren and Julia Fackelman. Elizabeth and Lauren attend high school and Julia is in the middle school.
Hannah Kerwin has been the Director of Bound Brook Memorial Library for the past seven years. She resides in Chatham and formerly was a member of Stanley Congregational Church, Chatham, and the Metuchen Presbyterian Church. Hannah’s daughter Calandra attends Drexel University and her twin sons, Perry & Bennett, are in third grade.
M. LaVerne & William Miner are residents of Arbor Glen, Bridgewater, having moved their homes from Watertown, MA & Washington, DC, seven years ago. Of their 15 year commuter marriage, the Miners describe themselves as being old-fashioned—that is, they were married 15 years before they started living together! A Philadelphia native, LaVerne earned a Master’s degree from the University of Rochester, a Certificate of Advanced Studies from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. She taught French & Spanish and retired in 1997 after having taught in Watertown Public Schools for 24 years. Bill is a native of Wooster, OH and received a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan, a Ph.D. in social policy & social planning from Brandeis University and an honorary LL.D. degree from the College of Wooster. Bill has worked in social work & public health education and in community & urban development overseas for the American Friends Service Committee, the United Nations & the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). He retired from USAID in 1998 after 37 years. Music has been a big part of their lives. At Arbor Glen, LaVerne accompanies the Arbor Glen Singers on piano & organ. Bill directs the community sing-alongs. In October 2005 he was elected vice-president of the Arbor Glen Residents’ Association and became president in October 2006. In that capacity he is a member ‘ex officio’ of the Board of Directors of Friends Retirement Concepts, Inc. Both have been selected as Living Treasures—Bill in 2003 and LaVerne in 2006.
Pictorial Directories Have Arrived
You may pick up your family copy of the pictorial directory after the worship service in the vestibule. Please check off your name on the master list.
Thank You
Many thanks to so many in our congregation for your care and concern and cards when my father died. It is good to be held in loving arms ...and there aremore loving,more plentiful,here.
- Linda Wilson
- Linda Wilson
It's Chistmas Cookie Time!
Thanksgiving is over, and we've officially entered the "holiday zone." Life is being consumed by holiday cheer - gift wrapping, card writing, tree decorating - who has time to make Christmas cookies in all the bustle? Sometimes things are just more fun in a group...
The 4Ps (Presbyterian Partners, Parents, and Professionals) will hold their first get together on Saturday, December 8, from 1-4PM at the home of Kristen and Rick Turner. Take some time to join us and meet with other young professionals while we prepare and bake Christmas cookies. Each person is asked to bring the ingredients for a recipe of 5 dozen cookies. Then you will leave with an assortment of 5 dozen for your Christmas eating pleasure! Don't worry, for those of you who are baking-challenged, there will be plenty of socializing in addition to the baking (and you still get to leave with your cookies). Children are welcome.
Please sign up on Martha's door or contact Kristen Turner (kturner@patmedia.net, 732-568-9548) with questions.
The 4Ps (Presbyterian Partners, Parents, and Professionals) will hold their first get together on Saturday, December 8, from 1-4PM at the home of Kristen and Rick Turner. Take some time to join us and meet with other young professionals while we prepare and bake Christmas cookies. Each person is asked to bring the ingredients for a recipe of 5 dozen cookies. Then you will leave with an assortment of 5 dozen for your Christmas eating pleasure! Don't worry, for those of you who are baking-challenged, there will be plenty of socializing in addition to the baking (and you still get to leave with your cookies). Children are welcome.
Please sign up on Martha's door or contact Kristen Turner (kturner@patmedia.net, 732-568-9548) with questions.
Celebrate Epiphany with PW
The Epiphany Luncheon with Presbyterian Women of New Brunswick Presbytery will be at 11 a.m.—2 p.m. on Saturday, January 5, 2008 at the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church in Princeton Junction. The Rev. Carol Wehrheim will speak on ways for children and adults to share ministry in the church. White gifts will be received. There will be a registration fee to pay for the luncheon and program. Contact Doris Sabin (732-469-3843) or d_sabin@att.net for travel arrangements.
FISH Hospitality Program
Now that the dust has settled and the electricity has been returned, the cave is starting to be transformed to a warm and welcoming place, and that means the return of the FISH Hospitality program to BBPC. FISH hospitality will return to BBPC on December 16 after a 1 year hiatus. As we begin to prepare for our guests return we are looking for donations to replace items that where donated to the Red Cross shelter in April, or lost during construction. We currently have a need for twin size blankets and sheet sets, as well as bath towels and washcloths. Additionally, we are looking for 2 or 3 small table lamps and an iron for ironing clothes. These can be gently used or new items. you have items that you would like to donate please see Mark Huddell, Dave DePierro, Diane Padula, or Tammy Newbold, or drop them off in our donation box in the cave.
We need volunteers to sleep over several evenings, and most of our evening hosting shifts (either 5PM to 7:30PM or 7:30PM to 10:00PM) are still available. A benefit to hosting from 5 to 7:30 is the chance to join in a wonderful meal provided by your fellow congregants. The evening shift gives you the chance to enjoy the new cave with our guests.
We need volunteers to sleep over several evenings, and most of our evening hosting shifts (either 5PM to 7:30PM or 7:30PM to 10:00PM) are still available. A benefit to hosting from 5 to 7:30 is the chance to join in a wonderful meal provided by your fellow congregants. The evening shift gives you the chance to enjoy the new cave with our guests.
Poinsettia and Christmas Music Donations
Forms are available on the table outside the church office to complete if you would like to provide poinsettia to decorate the sanctuary at Christmas. The cost is $10. Poinsettia may be taken after the 11:00 p.m. Communion service on Christmas Eve or may be donated to a homebound member or friend.
Special donations to the Christmas music program may be made in a similar fashion. This money is used to help defray the costs for members of SOLID BRASS who will accompany the anthems and carols at the 9:00 & 11:00 worship services on December 23. Our budget cannot sustain these special and inspiring additions to our worship. Any amount of contribution will help to insure that we continue this tradition. Your donation will be acknowledged in the announcements as we do with the poinsettia (in memory of….., in honor of…..).
Special donations to the Christmas music program may be made in a similar fashion. This money is used to help defray the costs for members of SOLID BRASS who will accompany the anthems and carols at the 9:00 & 11:00 worship services on December 23. Our budget cannot sustain these special and inspiring additions to our worship. Any amount of contribution will help to insure that we continue this tradition. Your donation will be acknowledged in the announcements as we do with the poinsettia (in memory of….., in honor of…..).
Hand Carved Olive Wood Items
On the weekends of December 1st and 2nd and 8th and 9th, we will offer for sale olive wood items hand carved by Palestinian Christians living in Bethlehem or Beit Sahour.
Carving and selling olive wood has been the source of a decent living for many years for Palestinian Christians. The sale of these items took place primarily in Bethlehem since it was a major tourist destination, especially for Christians. This has all changed in recent years. With the recent turmoil, and especially the building of the separation barrier (the WALL) and the many checkpoints, which now physically separate Jerusalem and Bethlehem, and the perceived danger of travel in this part of the world, the number of tourists traveling to Jerusalem and Bethlehem has dropped precipitously.
Last November (2006), we traveled with others (pastors and church members from the New Brunswick Presbytery) to Israel and the West Bank. Through contacts made on this trip with people in Bethlehem, these hand carved items are offered for sale to you.
Your purchase of even a single pendant will help ease the tremendous poverty currently experienced by persons living in Bethlehem and dependent upon the sale of hand carved olive wood.
- Ted and Jane Settle
Carving and selling olive wood has been the source of a decent living for many years for Palestinian Christians. The sale of these items took place primarily in Bethlehem since it was a major tourist destination, especially for Christians. This has all changed in recent years. With the recent turmoil, and especially the building of the separation barrier (the WALL) and the many checkpoints, which now physically separate Jerusalem and Bethlehem, and the perceived danger of travel in this part of the world, the number of tourists traveling to Jerusalem and Bethlehem has dropped precipitously.
Last November (2006), we traveled with others (pastors and church members from the New Brunswick Presbytery) to Israel and the West Bank. Through contacts made on this trip with people in Bethlehem, these hand carved items are offered for sale to you.
Your purchase of even a single pendant will help ease the tremendous poverty currently experienced by persons living in Bethlehem and dependent upon the sale of hand carved olive wood.
- Ted and Jane Settle
December Sunday School News
It's Pageant Time Again!
This year’s Christmas Pageant will be on December 24th at the 4:30 service.AsRodgers and I prepare for this event, we need to know who is available to participate.Pleaseout and return this form.The program will be worked on during Sunday School and there will be a rehearsal with Tom on Sunday December 16th during Sunday School.We will need parent volunteers to help get the children into their costumes and direct them during the performance.
Mission Project
This December we are very fortunate to host the FISH hospitality guests December 16th through December 23rd.In an effort to make this Christmas special for them, the Prayer Shawl Ministry has made a Christmas Stocking for each guest.We need your help to fill these stockings!We are looking for toiletries for the adults (trial size shampoo, condition, shower gel, lotion, tooth brushes & paste, etc.) and small single-piece toys for the children (matchbox cars, small dolls, beanie babies, etc).Small snacks like raisins orsnacksalso be added.The Deacons will be adding store gift cards.These items can be brought to Sunday school the next 2 weeks.
We are also in need of baby food jars for an art project.
If you have not filled out a registration form yet, please see me or any teacher to get a form.
Thank you for your support!
Judy DePierro,
Church School Superintendent
This year’s Christmas Pageant will be on December 24th at the 4:30 service.AsRodgers and I prepare for this event, we need to know who is available to participate.Pleaseout and return this form.The program will be worked on during Sunday School and there will be a rehearsal with Tom on Sunday December 16th during Sunday School.We will need parent volunteers to help get the children into their costumes and direct them during the performance.
Mission Project
This December we are very fortunate to host the FISH hospitality guests December 16th through December 23rd.In an effort to make this Christmas special for them, the Prayer Shawl Ministry has made a Christmas Stocking for each guest.We need your help to fill these stockings!We are looking for toiletries for the adults (trial size shampoo, condition, shower gel, lotion, tooth brushes & paste, etc.) and small single-piece toys for the children (matchbox cars, small dolls, beanie babies, etc).Small snacks like raisins orsnacksalso be added.The Deacons will be adding store gift cards.These items can be brought to Sunday school the next 2 weeks.
We are also in need of baby food jars for an art project.
If you have not filled out a registration form yet, please see me or any teacher to get a form.
Thank you for your support!
Judy DePierro,
Church School Superintendent
Holiday Food Drive
The Deacons thank everyone for the generous donations of items that were delivered to the Somerset County Foodbank for Thanksgiving. The need continues; suggestions are canned meats, tuna, macaroni & cheese, pasta, peanut butter & canned soups. Donations can be left in the coat room in the Fellowship Center.
Christmas Events
December 16, 2007
Christmas Brunch between worship services
~~~
December 17, 2007
Mizero Choir Concert—7:00 p.m.
~~~
December 21, 2007 - 7:30 p.m.
The Longest Night Gathering
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December 23, 2007
9:00 a.m. Worship Service with Brass
11:00 a.m. A Service of Lessons & Carols with Brass
~~~
December 24, 2007
Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion
4:30 p.m. with Children’s Pageant
9:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m.
Christmas Brunch between worship services
~~~
December 17, 2007
Mizero Choir Concert—7:00 p.m.
~~~
December 21, 2007 - 7:30 p.m.
The Longest Night Gathering
~~~
December 23, 2007
9:00 a.m. Worship Service with Brass
11:00 a.m. A Service of Lessons & Carols with Brass
~~~
December 24, 2007
Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion
4:30 p.m. with Children’s Pageant
9:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m.
Operation St. Nick
The Mission and Outreach Commission once more has distributed 100 names and gift requests through Operation St. Nick, a program run by the Department of Youth & Family Services (DYFS) for foster children in the immediate area. Please purchase and return your gift (with the tag that has the name of the child) along with wrapping paper by Sunday, December 9th. If you have any questions, please call Jane Settle (732-356-6313).
Join us in Hearing God's Call in Jonah and Ruth. The next meeting is Monday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the home of Connie Sopko, 533 Washington St., Bound Brook. This is the holiday gathering. Please bring an appetizer or dessert.
Join us in Hearing God's Call in Jonah and Ruth. The next meeting is Monday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the home of Connie Sopko, 533 Washington St., Bound Brook. This is the holiday gathering. Please bring an appetizer or dessert.
Adult Work Trip
The Presbyterian Church of Bound Brook has sent two previous adult work trips to the areas damaged by the Katrina Hurricane.A third trip is being planned for March 30 to April 5, 2008 to Gulf Port, MS. We will be working throughPresbyterian Disaster Assistance, a denominational agency that will provide ourcamp living space and food, coordinate our skills with the jobs needed to be undertaken, provide tools and some worksite supervision and provide time and programs for devotions and interaction with other groups who will be in the Orange Grove camp at the same time we are there.
If you are over 18 years old, in good health, and want to help in an area that is still devastated two and half years later, consider joining us.Further information can be obtained from Judy Dean, 732-764-0371.Official sign up for the trip will occur in January.Watch for details in this newsletter and announcements in worship. In the meantime, you can prepare by marking the dates on your calendar, praying about the needs and people affected by the storm, taking construction classes at Home Depot or Lowe's, and making sure your tetanus shot is current. Each participant will also need to have finances to cover the plane fare, $20.00 per day for food and some additional money for incidentals.
Christmas may not seem so merry if your home has been uninhabitable for over two years and your finances have been devastated as well. This spring a group of BBPC adults will be traveling to Mississippi to do Katrina/Rita disaster relief. Maybe this trip is not something you can attend. However, there is something you can do to make your presence known. Get a gift card in any amount from Home Depot, Wal-Mart, Lowe's, Target etc. Give the cards to Judy Dean or leave them in the church office (we are making arrangements to credit these cards to your church contributions) and the work group will take them to our PDA camp manager at the work site. The cards will then be distributed to individuals in need and who have been cleared by the PDA and local personnel so that duplication and fraud are avoided. In this way you can share in the relief work and make someone's day a little brighter.
If you are over 18 years old, in good health, and want to help in an area that is still devastated two and half years later, consider joining us.Further information can be obtained from Judy Dean, 732-764-0371.Official sign up for the trip will occur in January.Watch for details in this newsletter and announcements in worship. In the meantime, you can prepare by marking the dates on your calendar, praying about the needs and people affected by the storm, taking construction classes at Home Depot or Lowe's, and making sure your tetanus shot is current. Each participant will also need to have finances to cover the plane fare, $20.00 per day for food and some additional money for incidentals.
Christmas may not seem so merry if your home has been uninhabitable for over two years and your finances have been devastated as well. This spring a group of BBPC adults will be traveling to Mississippi to do Katrina/Rita disaster relief. Maybe this trip is not something you can attend. However, there is something you can do to make your presence known. Get a gift card in any amount from Home Depot, Wal-Mart, Lowe's, Target etc. Give the cards to Judy Dean or leave them in the church office (we are making arrangements to credit these cards to your church contributions) and the work group will take them to our PDA camp manager at the work site. The cards will then be distributed to individuals in need and who have been cleared by the PDA and local personnel so that duplication and fraud are avoided. In this way you can share in the relief work and make someone's day a little brighter.
Signing of Worship Services for the Hearing Impaired
Please welcome Julia O’Dowd who will sign our worship service every otherthrough September.Her schedule for the next month is as follows: November 11 & 25.When we return to two services in September, Julia will sign the 9:00 AM service. Julia is experienced in signing religious services fordeaf. She has herassociates degree in sign language interpreting from Union County College and has beeninterpreting Sunday services for a nondenominational church since 2001. The signing of our services now supplements our long standing offering of amplifiers for the hearing impaired and recording of our services for those unable to attend.
Readers in Worship
December 1 & 2
Saturday 5:00 Pat Kelly
Sunday 9:00 John Casale
Sunday 11:00 TJ Blazek
December 8 & 9
Saturday 5:00 Bill Blicharz
Sunday 9:00 Deb Gugel
Sunday 11:00 Soren Thomsen
December 15 & 16
Saturday 5:00 Dave DePierro
Sunday 9:00 Chelsea Sebastian
Sunday 11:00 Peg Sutherland
December 22 & 23
Saturday 5:00 Judy Dean
Sunday 9:00 Elaine Tetrault
Sunday 11:00 Lessons & Carols
December 24
Saturday 4:30 pm Sharon DeAngelis
Sunday 9:00 pm Gail Rayner
Sunday 11:00 pm Grant Colgary
December 29 & 30
Saturday 5:00 Anne Taylor
Sunday 9:00 Chris Anderson
Sunday 11:00 George Hellerman
Audio Recordings of Services
Did you know...? The Deacons can provide you with a compact disc recording of a service you may have missed or can supply you with CD’s of sermons on a weekly schedule (that may be something for you Sunday School Teachers!). If you, or someone you may know, cannot make it to church and would like a recorded copy of a sermon, please call Adriana Biedermann at 732-560-7461 OR contact any Deacon.
We want to know...as we move into the future, what would be the best way for you to get copies of the sermons? Please let us know what would work best for you: tapes, cds, podcasts or webcasts.
Julia O’Dowd will be signing our worship services on December 9, 23 & 24 (all 3 Christmas Eve Services).
Also, large print bulletins are available as well as audio amplifiers at every worship service. Please ask an usher for assistance.
We want to know...as we move into the future, what would be the best way for you to get copies of the sermons? Please let us know what would work best for you: tapes, cds, podcasts or webcasts.
Julia O’Dowd will be signing our worship services on December 9, 23 & 24 (all 3 Christmas Eve Services).
Also, large print bulletins are available as well as audio amplifiers at every worship service. Please ask an usher for assistance.
Summary of the Session Meeting of November 27, 2007
The members of Session gathered with the Board of Deacons in the sanctuary at 7:30 p.m. Moderator Louis Kilgore led devotions, focusing on the forthcoming season of Advent, reminding the Elders and Deacons that Advent was a season “to be aware and be awake.” Following announcements, the meeting of Session was called to order at 8:01 p.m. in the conference room and constituted with prayer by Moderator Louis Kilgore.
OLD BUSINESS
Elder Betsy Kamienowski updated the Session on the recent activities of the Building Committee (see report elsewhere in this issue), particularly in regards to completion of the work on the organ, which has not progressed to the satisfaction of the Building Committee, staff, and Session.
Elder Nancy Adams Fry reported on the progress of the Stewardship campaign, with amounts pledged to date.
Nancy also reported on the ongoing flood-relief efforts. Approximately $48,000 remains of money received from the denomination, individuals, and Red Cross reimbursements. The Session voted to retain $10,000 of these funds in accounts at Bound Brook Presbyterian Church so that the church may be prepared to launch relief efforts immediately in the event of another flood; $8,000 as a fund for families who are victims of the 2007 flood; and $30,000 to New Jersey Interfaith Disaster Recovery.
Personnel reported on performance evaluations to be done this month for both program and support staff.
Training for new officers is tentatively scheduled for two evenings in December and two in January, with ordination to take place on January 26–27, 2008, following the officers’ retreat.
The Session approved a motion stating the intention to hold the meeting of the Congregation for election of church officers on the same November Sunday of each year, specifically Christ the King Sunday (the Sunday before Advent).
COMMISSION REPORTS
The Membership Commission reported on the new members’ and further revision of the roles.
Acting upon a recommendation from Mission Outreach, the Session approved an allocation from the Capital Campaign Mission budget—local and regional causes—for the purchase of room dividers for providing privacy to guests we house in the FISH hospitality program.
Acting upon a recommendation from the Christian Education Commission, the Session approved the serving of Communion at the Youth Retreat at Paradise Lake the first weekend in December.
A discussion concerning budgeting and endowment funds brought forward a request by Session to the Finance Commission to provide a comparative snapshot of the Church’s finances for the past five years. The Finance Commission will also start work on a preliminary budget for 2008.
Finally, the Session approved a motion to host the March 2008 meeting of the Presbytery of New Brunswick. Elders volunteering to help coordinate this event (which includes a full hot meal and meeting) are: Doug Rayner, Luke Wolff, Ted Settle, Betsy Kamienowski, Marion Oliver, Paul Gindler, and Grant Colgary.
Following a motion to approve written reports as received, the meeting was adjourned with prayer at 10:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Beth A. Hoffman, Clerk of Session
OLD BUSINESS
Elder Betsy Kamienowski updated the Session on the recent activities of the Building Committee (see report elsewhere in this issue), particularly in regards to completion of the work on the organ, which has not progressed to the satisfaction of the Building Committee, staff, and Session.
Elder Nancy Adams Fry reported on the progress of the Stewardship campaign, with amounts pledged to date.
Nancy also reported on the ongoing flood-relief efforts. Approximately $48,000 remains of money received from the denomination, individuals, and Red Cross reimbursements. The Session voted to retain $10,000 of these funds in accounts at Bound Brook Presbyterian Church so that the church may be prepared to launch relief efforts immediately in the event of another flood; $8,000 as a fund for families who are victims of the 2007 flood; and $30,000 to New Jersey Interfaith Disaster Recovery.
Personnel reported on performance evaluations to be done this month for both program and support staff.
Training for new officers is tentatively scheduled for two evenings in December and two in January, with ordination to take place on January 26–27, 2008, following the officers’ retreat.
The Session approved a motion stating the intention to hold the meeting of the Congregation for election of church officers on the same November Sunday of each year, specifically Christ the King Sunday (the Sunday before Advent).
COMMISSION REPORTS
The Membership Commission reported on the new members’ and further revision of the roles.
Acting upon a recommendation from Mission Outreach, the Session approved an allocation from the Capital Campaign Mission budget—local and regional causes—for the purchase of room dividers for providing privacy to guests we house in the FISH hospitality program.
Acting upon a recommendation from the Christian Education Commission, the Session approved the serving of Communion at the Youth Retreat at Paradise Lake the first weekend in December.
A discussion concerning budgeting and endowment funds brought forward a request by Session to the Finance Commission to provide a comparative snapshot of the Church’s finances for the past five years. The Finance Commission will also start work on a preliminary budget for 2008.
Finally, the Session approved a motion to host the March 2008 meeting of the Presbytery of New Brunswick. Elders volunteering to help coordinate this event (which includes a full hot meal and meeting) are: Doug Rayner, Luke Wolff, Ted Settle, Betsy Kamienowski, Marion Oliver, Paul Gindler, and Grant Colgary.
Following a motion to approve written reports as received, the meeting was adjourned with prayer at 10:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Beth A. Hoffman, Clerk of Session
December 2007 - Building Committee News
Last December, the cord from the console to the organ pipes was cut, the sanctuary pendant lights were removed for restoration, and we were officially “Under Construction.” With the beginning of this Advent, we are nearing completion of what we set out to do - Preserve, Prepare and Build, “equipping the saints for the work of ministry.’ Ephesians 4:16. Thanks be to God!
The restoration and repair completed in the sanctuary has been beautifully enhanced by the Worship & Music Commission’s Christmas decorations, along with hundreds of hours of volunteer work put into the Bell Tower & Bride’s Chapel entrances. The additional investment of the arched glass doors in the Bell Tower truly opens worship to the community. The organ upgrades and re-installation is seriously delayed; hope and pressure abound in equal measure that this would be completed as soon as possible. This month, most of the contracted work has been or will be completed in the Reception area and ramp-entry foyer: flooring, painting, lighting, heating, duct work, fire/smoke alarm upgrades, new staircase, kitchen cabinetry and appliances. The countertops will most likely be completed in January 2008. The installation of the 3 Memorial Windows in Reception has been delayed until later in the month. Movement of an un-seen stained glass window to prominence above the new ramp-entry foyer door amazingly enhances both foyer and exterior. Final upgrades to wiring and lighting in the Cave, Youth Center, and “Tunnel” will be completed this month. Immense gratitude is extended to Luis, Richard and John who have donated hundreds of hours of time (and materials!) to general maintenance and repair work in the church. Areas long over-looked and under-utilized are accessible and clean as well as beautiful. Hearty thanks also to Al for donating his time in building a wonderful workstation in the Youth Center. Recurring plumbing back-ups in the basement require additional snake camera research and installation of a plumbing clean-out point – the front lawn has been marked and will be dug up in as small a space as possible for this purpose.
The large speakers and wires on the chancel are temporary; with thanks to Casa de la Banquette for use of their sound system until the new church system is installed. Stair tread caps will be installed around the edge of the balcony risers to provide tactile and visual reference, and pews will be adjusted to provide better access. Plans are also underway to complete the Session Room renovations to return this space to fuller and more versatile use. The Youth kitchen bar project will be done next month by recycling the old parlor kitchen cabinets. The exterior around the Session Room still needs painting – Paint, primer, brushes, rollers are available! Please contact Betsy Kamienowski if you can help get that project done! A ‘Jobs for Volunteers’ list is posted outside the sanctuary. Jobs range from lining drawers with shelf paper to skilled construction – check out how you can help!
Storage POD and construction dumpster will be removed from the parking area early in December, restoring the handicap parking spaces to full use again. The Hospitality committee is establishing a dedicated space under the Bell Tower to facilitate the wonderful ministry they do. Youth groups and staff have helped clear out un-used items from over-crowded closets to provide space for organized, dry and accessible storage.
With construction almost complete – contract payments are coming due. Your pledge payments help church cash flow needs. Thank You!
Faithfully yours; Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato
The restoration and repair completed in the sanctuary has been beautifully enhanced by the Worship & Music Commission’s Christmas decorations, along with hundreds of hours of volunteer work put into the Bell Tower & Bride’s Chapel entrances. The additional investment of the arched glass doors in the Bell Tower truly opens worship to the community. The organ upgrades and re-installation is seriously delayed; hope and pressure abound in equal measure that this would be completed as soon as possible. This month, most of the contracted work has been or will be completed in the Reception area and ramp-entry foyer: flooring, painting, lighting, heating, duct work, fire/smoke alarm upgrades, new staircase, kitchen cabinetry and appliances. The countertops will most likely be completed in January 2008. The installation of the 3 Memorial Windows in Reception has been delayed until later in the month. Movement of an un-seen stained glass window to prominence above the new ramp-entry foyer door amazingly enhances both foyer and exterior. Final upgrades to wiring and lighting in the Cave, Youth Center, and “Tunnel” will be completed this month. Immense gratitude is extended to Luis, Richard and John who have donated hundreds of hours of time (and materials!) to general maintenance and repair work in the church. Areas long over-looked and under-utilized are accessible and clean as well as beautiful. Hearty thanks also to Al for donating his time in building a wonderful workstation in the Youth Center. Recurring plumbing back-ups in the basement require additional snake camera research and installation of a plumbing clean-out point – the front lawn has been marked and will be dug up in as small a space as possible for this purpose.
The large speakers and wires on the chancel are temporary; with thanks to Casa de la Banquette for use of their sound system until the new church system is installed. Stair tread caps will be installed around the edge of the balcony risers to provide tactile and visual reference, and pews will be adjusted to provide better access. Plans are also underway to complete the Session Room renovations to return this space to fuller and more versatile use. The Youth kitchen bar project will be done next month by recycling the old parlor kitchen cabinets. The exterior around the Session Room still needs painting – Paint, primer, brushes, rollers are available! Please contact Betsy Kamienowski if you can help get that project done! A ‘Jobs for Volunteers’ list is posted outside the sanctuary. Jobs range from lining drawers with shelf paper to skilled construction – check out how you can help!
Storage POD and construction dumpster will be removed from the parking area early in December, restoring the handicap parking spaces to full use again. The Hospitality committee is establishing a dedicated space under the Bell Tower to facilitate the wonderful ministry they do. Youth groups and staff have helped clear out un-used items from over-crowded closets to provide space for organized, dry and accessible storage.
With construction almost complete – contract payments are coming due. Your pledge payments help church cash flow needs. Thank You!
Faithfully yours; Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato
Upcoming Events
Sunday, December 9 Junior High 5-7 PM and
Senior High 6-8 PM
Sunday, December 16 No Youth Group. The FISH Hospitality Program will be occupying the CAVE this week.
Monday, December 17 Mizero Concert 7PM in the sanctuary. Mizero is a choir of 12 children from Rwanda who are touring throughout the US to raise awareness and funds for children orphaned by the Rwandan genocide.
Wednesday December 19 Dinner and Party for the Mizero Choir In the PFC from 6-8 PM
Sunday, December 23 Christmas Party! Junior High from 4-6 PM and Senior High from 6-8 PM. Note the time change for junior high!
Open CAVE Tuesdays! Junior and Senior High are gathering every Tuesday night for dinner, fellowship and fun on Tuesdays from 5-8 PM. Parent volunteers are preparing a light supper. Some youth are doing homework. Others are playing the Wii.
7-8 PM on Tuesdays our One Life Team meets in the Cave to discuss plans for our next project in Zambia.
ASP Informational Meeting, Sunday January 27 at 7PM
This year we will be traveling to Harlan County, Kentucky! ASP is a week long home repair trip for senior high youth. We will be traveling from July 5-13.
“Laughter on the 23rd Floor”, a play by Neil Simon, February 17 at 6:30 PM at the Somerset Valley Playhouse in Hillsborough. Join us for this Zambia fundraiser sponsored by the Christian Education Commission. Tickets are $15 and will go on sale January 27th.
Senior High 6-8 PM
Sunday, December 16 No Youth Group. The FISH Hospitality Program will be occupying the CAVE this week.
Monday, December 17 Mizero Concert 7PM in the sanctuary. Mizero is a choir of 12 children from Rwanda who are touring throughout the US to raise awareness and funds for children orphaned by the Rwandan genocide.
Wednesday December 19 Dinner and Party for the Mizero Choir In the PFC from 6-8 PM
Sunday, December 23 Christmas Party! Junior High from 4-6 PM and Senior High from 6-8 PM. Note the time change for junior high!
Open CAVE Tuesdays! Junior and Senior High are gathering every Tuesday night for dinner, fellowship and fun on Tuesdays from 5-8 PM. Parent volunteers are preparing a light supper. Some youth are doing homework. Others are playing the Wii.
7-8 PM on Tuesdays our One Life Team meets in the Cave to discuss plans for our next project in Zambia.
ASP Informational Meeting, Sunday January 27 at 7PM
This year we will be traveling to Harlan County, Kentucky! ASP is a week long home repair trip for senior high youth. We will be traveling from July 5-13.
“Laughter on the 23rd Floor”, a play by Neil Simon, February 17 at 6:30 PM at the Somerset Valley Playhouse in Hillsborough. Join us for this Zambia fundraiser sponsored by the Christian Education Commission. Tickets are $15 and will go on sale January 27th.
Zambia, the Next Step
By Lee Goodson
Members of the senior and junior high youth groups have been meeting over the course of the past few weeks to discuss the trip that 13 members of our church went on this past August, to Zambia. The main topic of the recent meetings has been to choose the next project to be undertaken in Twachianda.
We have agreed that we would like to our new mission to be the renovation and expansion of the main health clinic in Twachianda. The clinic serves the whole population of Twachiyanda which is over 30,000 people. It currently offers very limited services and it is not fully equipped with the quantity or variety of medicines that are needed there. While in Twachiyanda we learned that people there are able to be tested for HIV/AIDS, but they do not have access to the antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) that can prolong their lives and enable them to parent their children to adulthood. The only place to get further help for this is to go 6 hours to the city of Choma. That is where the only hospital for a very long distance is located. Choma is the only place where a person, who has tested positive for AIDS, can get ARV’s . This is a huge problem for the citizens of Twachianda because very few have the means to secure transportation.
Through World Vision we have been in contact with our friends in Twachiyanda. They are gathering the information needed to help us understand what it would cost to improve the services offered at the clinic. We are anxiously waiting to hear what they have to say. Once they respond we will communicate with the congregation about our plans to move forward. We have built a well. Now we want to keep people well!
Members of the senior and junior high youth groups have been meeting over the course of the past few weeks to discuss the trip that 13 members of our church went on this past August, to Zambia. The main topic of the recent meetings has been to choose the next project to be undertaken in Twachianda.
We have agreed that we would like to our new mission to be the renovation and expansion of the main health clinic in Twachianda. The clinic serves the whole population of Twachiyanda which is over 30,000 people. It currently offers very limited services and it is not fully equipped with the quantity or variety of medicines that are needed there. While in Twachiyanda we learned that people there are able to be tested for HIV/AIDS, but they do not have access to the antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) that can prolong their lives and enable them to parent their children to adulthood. The only place to get further help for this is to go 6 hours to the city of Choma. That is where the only hospital for a very long distance is located. Choma is the only place where a person, who has tested positive for AIDS, can get ARV’s . This is a huge problem for the citizens of Twachianda because very few have the means to secure transportation.
Through World Vision we have been in contact with our friends in Twachiyanda. They are gathering the information needed to help us understand what it would cost to improve the services offered at the clinic. We are anxiously waiting to hear what they have to say. Once they respond we will communicate with the congregation about our plans to move forward. We have built a well. Now we want to keep people well!
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