Aldersga estorage.cloversites.com/aldersgateunitedmethodistchurch3...This way, you can see a broader...
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2014 Share The Journey. Aldersga e A significant place where disciples are made The Messenger Are You “Vanilla” or “Chocolate” - “Cilantro” or “Curry”? We finally had a snowy winter. Hip, Hip, Hooray! Hip, Hip, Hooray!! I know of a few people who have enjoyed this weather with me and I know of several who have felt this winter would never end. It always amazes me when I look at the people God has created and the vast difference of likes and dislikes that we exhibit. I oſten say, “That’s why they make vanilla and chocolate” in response to a weird look that I might receive concerning something that I find appealing. Just as our DNA structure is unique to each of us, so are our tastes. It would be pointless trying to convince your pastor to eat anything with cilantro in it. I just can’t stand that herb, yet I will happily eat food with curry. Most rap music is completely unappealing to me, however, I thoroughly enjoy listening to Mozart or Bach and I will admit that rock and roll is prey high on my list. What things appear on your “likes” list and what things are put on your “dislikes” list? Have you ever wondered what things God or Jesus likes or dislikes? Have you ever tried to guess whether Jesus would have been a vanilla or chocolate lover if he had ice cream to eat? I don’t know the answers to those quesons, but there is one thing of which I am certain. God doesn’t put any of His people on either His like or dislike list. We can know that for certain from the beloved passage in John 3:16 and in the redeeming works of His Son, Jesus Christ. God sent Jesus into the world that ALL might be saved. We are all sinners and are desperately in need of Jesus. As we enter into the season of Lent and travel together through it to the glorious celebraon of the resurrecon of Jesus Christ, let us be careful with our lists and take me to examine the contents of those lists. It is OK to like vanilla over chocolate, curry over cilantro or classical over rap; but as humans, we could end up pung a type of people on there just because of who they are. We must keep at the very foundaon that ALL are in need of Jesus Christ and no human creaon of God’s falls outside of God’s grace. If any of us were measured by the sin in our lives, we would all fail, but through the saving act of Christ on the cross, we have hope of eternal life. Grace and Peace! Pastor Chris REMINDER: The church's new security system will start in early March, possibly on Monday, March 3. Contact a Trustee or Royal if you have any quesons. On Sundays, all doors will be unlocked from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Weekdays, you must enter and exit via the double glass doors off the main parking lot or the Fairfax double doors; all other doors will be locked and alarmed. The glass doors and the Fairfax double doors will have a telephone keypad and intercom that you can use to request access during the week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Transcript of Aldersga estorage.cloversites.com/aldersgateunitedmethodistchurch3...This way, you can see a broader...
2014
Share The Journey.
Aldersga e A significant place where disciples are made
Th
e M
es
se
ng
er
Are You “Vanilla” or “Chocolate” - “Cilantro” or “Curry”? We finally had a snowy winter. Hip, Hip, Hooray! Hip, Hip, Hooray!! I know of a few people who have enjoyed this weather with me and I know of several who have felt this winter would never end. It always amazes me when I look at the people God has created and the vast difference of likes and dislikes that we exhibit. I often say, “That’s why they make vanilla and chocolate” in response to a weird look that I might receive concerning something that I find appealing.
Just as our DNA structure is unique to each of us, so are our tastes. It would be pointless trying to convince your pastor to eat anything with cilantro in it. I just can’t stand that herb, yet I will happily eat food with curry. Most rap music is completely unappealing to me, however, I thoroughly enjoy listening to Mozart or Bach and I will admit that rock and roll is pretty high on my list.
What things appear on your “likes” list and what things are put on your “dislikes” list? Have you ever wondered what things God or Jesus likes or dislikes? Have you ever tried to guess whether Jesus would have been a vanilla or chocolate lover if he had ice cream to eat? I don’t know the answers to those questions, but there is one thing of which I am certain. God doesn’t put any of His people on either His like or dislike list.
We can know that for certain from the beloved passage in John 3:16 and in the redeeming works of His Son, Jesus Christ. God sent Jesus into the world that ALL might be saved. We are all sinners and are desperately in need of Jesus.
As we enter into the season of Lent and travel together through it to the glorious celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, let us be careful with our lists and take time to examine the contents of those lists. It is OK to like vanilla over chocolate, curry over cilantro or classical over rap; but as humans, we could end up putting a type of people on there just because of who they are. We must keep at the very foundation that ALL are in need of Jesus Christ and no human creation of God’s falls outside of God’s grace. If any of us were measured by the sin in our lives, we would all fail, but through the saving act of Christ on the cross, we have hope of eternal life.
Grace and Peace!
Pastor Chris
REMINDER: The church's new security system will start in early March, possibly on Monday, March 3. Contact a Trustee or Royal if you have any questions.
On Sundays, all doors will be unlocked from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Weekdays, you must enter and exit via the double glass doors off the main parking lot or the Fairfax double doors; all other doors will be locked and alarmed.
The glass doors and the Fairfax double doors will have a telephone keypad and intercom that you can use to request access during the week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Share the Journey 2 March 2014
Aldersgate is going to Summer Camp! Pecometh Friends & Family Camp June 27 to 29
Have you ever wished that you could go to camp and have the same fun as the children? Have you longed to return to Camp Pecometh and experience the same fun you had as a child? Maybe you’ve never been to Camp Pecometh but were always curious to see what everyone was talking about. Friends & Family Camp is the opportunity for EVERYONE to experience the fun of camp in a weekend no matter how young or young-at-heart. Last year, campers at Friends and Family camp ranged in age from 6 months old to 85 years old!
Enjoy time in the Chester River kayaking or splashing around on the Splashdown equipment. Relax with a s’more by the campfire or work on that long awaited scrapbook. Choose to stay in either traditional cabins or in one of the newly completed hotel-style lodges. Experience the fun, fellowship, and festivities of a weekend at camp! (Parents are responsible for their own children at all times throughout the weekend.) For more information visit http://pecometh.org/friends-and-family-camp/ and contact Brian and Cheryl Merritt at [email protected] to register with the Aldersgate group.
Rates (includes two nights lodging, seven meals, and all activities) Camp Site (Tent or RV Camping) Adults (each) $85 Children Ages 6-11 (per child for the 1st and 2nd child) $75 Additional Children Ages 6-11 (per child) $50 Children 5 Years Old and Under FREE
Rustic Cabins Adults (each) $100 Children Ages 6-11 (per child for the 1st and 2nd child) $90 Additional Children Ages 6-11 (per child) $50 Children 5 Years Old and Under FREE
Hotel Style Rooms in the Riverview Retreat Center Adults (each) $180 Children Ages 6-11 (per child for the 1st and 2nd child) $90 Additional Children Ages 6-11 (per child) $50 Children 5 Years Old and Under FREE
Pecometh: 136 Bookers Wharf Road
Centreville, MD 21617
Share the Journey 3 March 2014
Greetings from your Finance Committee Chair!
By Brett Landis, Finance Chair
January is one for the record books! Can you believe we’re in the midst of the third
snowiest winter on record for our area? Personally, I love it, but I know I’m in the
minority on this one. Three in my family were born in Texas, two of us born here. Guess
where the line is drawn?
January, from a finance perspective this year, was in the BLACK. That is a good thing in finance, but historically the next few
months can be treacherous for our budget. Please be diligent in your commitments, help us work our way through the “snow” and
keep Aldersgate in the BLACK!
12 Month Comparison
Starting this month, I’ll be showing a longer trend in the chart than I have in the past. The view above is a comparison of 12-month
periods, encompassing the most recent month and the 11 preceding months. We will also look at the same view from one year
ago, and the same 12-month period. This way, you can see a broader view of our income and expenses for a full year’s cycle. As
shown above, January 2014 and the prior 12 calendar months, we have a net income of $6,577. Whereas the same time last year,
our prior 12 calendar months reflected a net deficit of $30,053. We’ve accomplished this two ways. First, our income increased by
$21,746, and second, our expenses decreased by $14,591. All this while our contributions remain flat with a difference of just
$3,800 this year over last. Thank you for your investment in our missions.
Aldersgate truly is a significant place where disciples are made.
As of Jan-2014 As of Jan-2013 Difference
Income $1,096,194.93 $1,074,448.55 $21,746.38
Expenses $1,089,734.14 $1,104,326.11 -$14,591.97
Net Income $6,577.88 -$30,053.50
SPRC Updates
By Betsy Diemer, SPRC Lead
“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different
kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all.” (1 Corinthians 4-6)
The Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) wishes to recognize the excellent work that was done by many people in the church to
help out while our Administrative Assistant, Candice Kilson was absent because of illness. In particular, Jeff Manns put in extra
hours keeping the preparation for Sunday services on track. The DOVs, including Carolyn Fleckenstein and Sandy Anderson,
helped to produce the worship folders, and other duties above and beyond their normal tasks. Sincere thanks to you all and
welcome back, Candice!
I am pleased to announce that Ms. Danielle Johnson has joined the AUMC staff. Danielle has accepted the housekeeper position
and will be working mornings to prepare meeting rooms and keep the facilities in good shape. If you are at church any morning,
offer her a warm welcome and share a smile.
The SPRC (Staff-Parish Relations Committee) is the administrative unit in a local church where staff and congregational interests are
integrated to focus on the mission of the church. The committee relates to all staff, both bishop-appointed staff and employed staff.
Member of the SPRC for 2014 are: Betsy Diemer, Kevin Boardman, Dick Fleming, Mike Houser, Andrew Ritchie, Judy Morton, Bill
Harvey, Heather Burket, Leigh Thompson, and Cheryl Merritt, Co-Lay Leader (ex officio).
Share the Journey 4 March 2014
HOW YOU CAN HELP
LAUNDRY—Pick up the laundry, take it home, wash & dry it and then bring it back to the church. How
about you? Do you have a couple of hours four times a year to help with Family Promise? This is not a
difficult task but an extremely important one.
OVERNIGHT HOST —We always need folks who won’t mind giving up their comfortable beds to
stay on a blow up mattress (like our Family Promise guests) and be the hosts for the night. Let
folks in if they need to stretch their legs outside. Sometimes you can help the kids with
homework. Check that guests are in the church by 10 p.m., and be up early enough to make sure
they catch the van the next morning. We need a minimum of 2 people hosting per evening, but
families are welcome.
VAN DRIVERS—This is one of the easiest tasks we have with Family Promise. Either drive the
van from the church to the Family Promise Center early in the morning or pick them up at the
Center and return them to Aldersgate. A round trip to the Center on St. James Road takes about
1 hour.
HOSTING A MEAL—Bring your family, get friends together or have a small group ministry op-
portunity. Providing home cooked meals to our guests for Family Promise is a very rewarding
opportunity. Cook at your home or at the church, serve it and then share it with our guests.
You will be very blessed.
SET UP AND TAKE DOWN—Takes about one hour before and after guests arrive. Set up
includes preparing our class rooms into bedrooms for our guests - making beds etc. Take down
is just the opposite. Convert everything back to class rooms. Having 6-8 volunteers makes the
task very easy.
Here are the dates when we host in 2014— when can YOU help?
March 9—16 June 22—29
September 28—October 5 December 7—14
FOR VOLUNTEERING OR INFORMATION CONTACT EITHER BRIAN OR SARAH
Brian Merritt [email protected]
Share the Journey 5 March 2014
Share the Journey 6 March 2014
ALDERSGATE’S ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE
Saturday, April 26 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Drop-off donations at the Fairfax “RAINBOW ROOM” entrance:
Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Monday, April 21 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Tuesday, April 22 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, April 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
EVENT AREAS
ANTIQUES - China, Clocks, mirrors, “Odds & Ends”
COLLECTIBLES – Figurines, Special collections, Paintings etc.
UNIQUE BOUTIQUE – Jewelry and Fashion accessories etc.
CHILDREN’S ITEMS – Toys, Clothing, Equipment, etc. (no stuffed animals, toilet equipment, cribs or car seats)
SPORTING GOODS—Games, Equipment, etc. (no treadmills)
TOOLS – All types of tools
BOOKS/VIDEO’S/DVD’S – Movies, Games, All types of Books
HOUSEWARES/WHITE ELEPHANT/SMALL APPLIANCES/PLANTS—Miscellaneous items you’ve saved and
need a new home. All types of small appliances. Please, no Televisions or computer electronics. Seedlings,
vegetable, indoor and outdoor plants.
FURNITURE/PICTURES/ LAMPS/RUGS – All types in good condition, except sofa beds/hide-a-beds,
mattresses, large entertainment centers.
FOOD – Baked Goods - Breads, Cakes, Pies (bring donations on Friday please)
Breakfast—New this year!
Lunch—Rick Bett’s specialties!
ADULT CLOTHING – Special Collection for “Clothing Bank Of DE” only
“Not for rummage sale”
(Rummage Sale—Continued on page 7)
Share the Journey 7 March 2014
CONTACTS FOR DONATION QUESTIONS and “TO VOLUNTEER”
CO-CHAIRS: Mary Jane Prince (302-478-6268 / cell 302-367-6955) – [email protected]
Chris Burket ( cell 609-504-3107) [email protected]
ASSISTANTS: Pam Wright (610-358-2479 / cell 302-547-5139) – [email protected] and
Shirley Rollins (302-478-5155 / cell 302-463-8400 – [email protected]
Don & Linda Moore (610-558-6817 / cell 484-354-3278) – [email protected]
INDIVIDUAL EVENT LEADERS
CHILDREN’S ITEMS: Susan Reader (610-358-5753) – [email protected]
Heather Burket (cell 609-504-3112) [email protected]
ANTIQUES: Pam Wright (610--358-2479 / cell 302-547-5139) – [email protected]
COLLECTABLES: BJ Houser (610-793-3262) – [email protected]
BOOKS/DVD’S: Betsy Diemer (302-762-6759) – [email protected]
Carolyn Fleckenstein (302-478-4633) / cell 302-584-3351) – [email protected]
UNIQUE BOUTIQUE: Joanne Bodwell (610-459-2029 ) – [email protected]
Kitty Lugar (302-656-3308 / cell 302- 530-1036) – [email protected]
HOUSEWARES/WHITE ELEPHANT: Sandy & Kirk Anderson (302-478-6859)
SMALL APPLICANCES/PLANTS Sandy (cell 302-383-7636) — [email protected]
Kirk (cell 302-383-7638)–[email protected]
SPORTING GOODS: Don Rollins (302-478-5155 / cell 302-463-2050) – [email protected]
TOOLS: Mike Houser (610-793-3262 / cell 302-893-1871) – [email protected]
FURNITURE/LAMPS/PICTURES/RUGS: Don & Linda Moore (610-558-6817 / Don’s Cell 484-354-3278)
FOOD: Baked Goods—Jill McKeown (302-635-7628) – [email protected]
Breakfast—Gary Poplos (Sandy Poplos cell 302-388-4514) – [email protected]
Lunch—Rick Betz (302-764-3616 / cell 302-345-8863) – [email protected]
LOGISTICS: Chris Burket ( cell 609-504-3107) [email protected]
Don Moore (610-558-6817) [email protected]
COMMUNICATIONS/PUBLICITY: Ken Wright (610-358-2479) – [email protected];
Jim Lardear (302-478-7022) – [email protected]
TREASURER: John Prince (302-478-6268 / cell 302-740-0192) – [email protected] / [email protected]
CLEANUP/PICKUP/SETUP: Scouts, Wilmington Single Volunteers, Mt. Salem UMC, Chester Bethel UMC
TAX RECEIPTS: Don Moore (610-558-6817) [email protected]
CASHIERS & MARSHALLS: Kelly Truitt (302-652-8702) – [email protected]
(Rummage Sale—Continued from page 6)
Share the Journey 8 March 2014
Each month, milestone anniversaries are listed as well as all those over 50 years. While we can all benefit from knowing that marriages truly can exist for more than 5 decades, we want to recognize those milestone years (i.e. 5, 10 15, 20 ) for all. Congratulations!
Amy & Frank Honisch IV 10 years March 19
If you are not sure we have your anniversary and would like it to be included in the future, please contact Betty Moore (302-478-2575 ext. 117) or [email protected]. All additions or corrections are gratefully accepted to keep our records up to date.
Leonard LeCompte January 30
Jack Beecher February 4
Ellen Hill February 5
Infant Baptism—January 19
Charlie Mantana Barton,
daughter of Chris & Lori Barton
Who Doesn’t Appreciate a Warm Cup of Coffee on a
Sunday Morning?
Sadly, the coffee doesn’t make itself! The fellowship following each service is an important ministry at Aldersgate and offers a warm welcome to those who may be visiting.
Mike & Lynne Conlan have agreed to be coordinators of the fellowship time, but they need our help. Won’t you consider serving as host with your family, friends, small group or Sunday School class? It isn’t a huge commitment with many hands sharing the work. It also needn’t be an extravagant spread. Basic snacks are always available and the rest is completely up to you!
If you are willing to serve as a fellowship host for either the 9 a.m. or 11 a.m. service, please use the link below to sign up or contact the Conlans at (610) 304-5139.
http://www.signupgenius.com/go/904044BA9AA2B0-coffee
UMW Spring Fling—A BROAD’S WAY Sunday, March 30, 3 to 5 p.m. in the Auditorium
By Stacie DiGiacomo
Women and girls are invited to attend an afternoon of fellowship, food and fun. Entertainment will be provided by A BROAD’S WAY, a female ensemble composed of three singers and a pianist. The women are all veterans of local and regional theater companies. With three part singing and choreography, A BROAD’S WAY will present a program of music from a wide range of Broadway musicals. This group was originally scheduled to perform at the UMW Epiphany meeting in January but their performance was canceled due to weather. We are excited that Spring will soon be here and we were able to reschedule this performance. Tickets are $2 for girls and $4 for women. Childcare will be available if requested by March 23rd. Sign up in the Auditorium following all Sunday Services starting March 9th, with a circle leader, or online at: https://eeumw.wufoo.com/forms/umw-spring-fling/ . We will be collecting nonperishable food items or cash donations for local food closets.
Rummage Sale Pick Up Dates:
Saturday, March 1
Saturday, April 12
To arrange a pick up, contact:
Chris Burket—609-504-3107—[email protected]
Don Moore—610-558-6817—[email protected]
Share the Journey 9 March 2014
Aldersgate’s 2014 Budget
In the spirit of openness about church finances, please take a look at the approved budget for 2014. Should you have
questions, please contact Brett Landis, Finance Committee Chair at [email protected] or 302-478-1644.
Budget $ Over Budget
Ordinary Income/Expense
Income
3100 · Contributions 792,740.00 -712,163.66
3116 · Fund Raisers 34,000.00 -34,000.00
3120 · Plate 18,000.00 -16,739.97
3135 · Music Programs 11,000.00 -10,525.00
3136 · Programs 18,660.00 -18,660.00
3140 · Special Envelopes 13,500.00 -13,500.00
3150 · Preschool 155,214.00 -141,363.00
3189 · Other Miscellaneous Income 12,000.00 -11,950.00
3195 · Building Use 78,000.00 -76,356.83
3196 · Transfer from Endowment Fund 4,000.00 -4,000.00
Total Income 1,137,114.00 -1,039,258.46
Gross Profit 1,137,114.00 -1,039,258.46
Expense
.GATHER 26,000.00 -23,913.55
.GO 24,650.00 -24,422.53
.GROW 54,437.00 -51,265.15
COMMUNICATIONS 22,120.00 -21,731.06
FINANCE 5,700.00 -5,644.66
OFFICE EXPENSE 27,450.00 -23,802.35
STAFF/PARISH RELATIONS 646,157.00 -588,626.88
TRUSTEES 227,125.00 -208,291.67
6000 · Apportionment 103,475.00 -94,852.08
Total Expense 1,137,114.00 -1,042,549.93
Net Ordinary Income 0.00 3,291.47
Other Income/Expense
Other Income
3300 · CONFERENCE BENEVOLENCE
Total Other Income
Other Expense
God, Who Stretched the Spangled Heaven—
A UMC Hymn—Verse 4
As each far horizon beckons, may it challenge us anew,
children of creative purpose, serving others, honoring you.
May our dreams prove rich with promise,
each endeavor well begun.
Share the Journey 10 March 2014
New Policy Affecting Fund Raising Events
By Brett Landis, Finance Committee Chair
A new policy was submitted and approved last year
by the Lead Team which requires that ALL fund raising
events which intend to generate income after
expenses must submit a proposal to the Finance
Committee on how they would like to have the
proceeds spent.
The original intent of the policy was to responsibly
manage funds generated by revenue generating
events, while ensuring that each program and event
do their best to estimate both expenses and
projected revenue. Designated gifts for a specific
event will be used to fund those events.
Aldersgate has a rich history and a wonderful
reputation for hosting community events and
programs that are all ministries of the church and
cover a wide range of interests.
2014 Rummage Sale Proceeds
By Mary Jane Prince, Rummage Sale Co-Chair
The Rummage Sale historically, was held to generate funds to pay down Aldersgate’s debt which was
incurred to build the Music Room and Student Center which opened in 2000. Happily, the proceeds from last
year’s Rummage Sale were sufficient to pay off the debt in full!
This year, we are proposing that the proceeds from the Rummage Sale be used in the following manner:
1. 10% of gross to be allocated as a one-time payment in excess of Aldergate’s annual financial budgeted commitment to a
selected Wilmington area non-profit.
2. The balance of the proceeds, after expenses, will be used to repair as many additional sections of the Sanctuary roof as
possible at a cost of $7800 per section. Last year, 1 section was repaired and this year 5 additional sections are budgeted.
There are 24 sections in all. Covering the cost of some number of additional sections using Rummage Sale proceeds means we
are closer to no more leaks!
If you have any questions about the Rummage Sale proceeds, please contact Mary Jane Prince or Chris Burket, Rummage Sale
Co-chairs for 2014.
Outreach Budget—Now GO Team Budget
The GO Team is responsible for budgeting and approving expenditures for Outreach. In addition, Benevolence funds from the congregation are sent monthly to the Conference for distribution.
Please review the GO Team Budget at the right. If you have questions, please contact Randy Husbands at 302-652-2085.
“GO Team”
Share the Journey 11 March 2014
Going Green Reminder
Sign up to receive the Messenger electronically via email. You can do this
in the HUB, at the Information Booth or on the website (www.aldersgatede.org). Receiving the Messenger via email costs nothing!
The Messenger is also available on the website on the home page as “News” and in the information areas at church.
If you’re receiving the Messenger now and wish to be dropped from the distribution, paper or electronic, please contact the
church office at 302-478-2575 or send an email to [email protected].
THE MESSENGER
Another Going Green Reminder
There are many ways that we recycle
at Aldersgate and ways that you can
support the effort by making small
changes.
1) Drop your used printer cartridges
into the receptacle located in the
hallway near the HUB.
2) Drop your “Paper Only” in the
green and yellow Abitibi bins
located on the church property.
Abitibi picks up between 2 and 3
tons of recycled paper each
month, saving our landfill 7 to 10
cubic yards of space and
Aldersgate reaps CASH!
3) Recycle all other materials such as
aluminum, plastic and cardboard
through our community trash
company, Brandywine Waste.
Brandywine Waste charges $20
monthly to remove the other
recyclable materials.
CONGREGATION EARNS A+, BUT………
[Grade from the Aldersgate Caring for Creation Team]
Sunday morning bulletin recycling has come a long way. It appears that every worshipper who doesn’t take a bulletin home recycles by placing it in the blue recycle container in the Auditorium or the box on the window sill in the glass corridor. Kudos to all!
Right now the blue recycle containers are specifically for bulletins, plastic bottles, and aluminum beverage cans. There are other items that are recyclable, of course, that could also be put into the container like office paper, clean paper napkins and plates, and cardboard. At this time the plastic cups used in the fellowship period are NOT recyclable. Understandably there is sometimes confusion about this. So—PARENTS, please make sure that the drink cups your children use are disposed of in the brown trash containers. The Caring for Creation Team thanks you profusely!
Just as a sneak preview, recyclable plastic drink cups are in our near future. With fanfare we’ll let you know when the time comes.
Thanks for caring about God’s Creation!
Caring for Creation Team Members are: Emily Bankert, Doug Devoll, Carolyn Fleckenstein, Sharon Jennelly, Chris Pennington, Shirley
Rollins, Joanne Smeltz, John Walker, and Lorraine Fleming, Facilitator.
1/8/14
Peninsula-Delaware Conference 139 North State Street Dover, DE 19901
To Whom it May Concern,
The Food Bank of Delaware appreciates the continued support that the members of the United Methodist Church community provide to those in need in the state of Delaware. Unfortunately, the need for food assistance is growing due to cuts to the SNAP program (Food stamps) and the cost of keeping warm this cold winter. Individuals and families on food assistance are finding it even harder to make their food budget last the whole month.
The Food Bank of Delaware has just kicked off its Share a Second Helping Food Drive in order to keep up with demand, keep pantry shelves full and citizens fed. I am contacting you in hopes that you would be able to connect me with churches that are members of your association that would be interested in helping out and holding food drives with their congregation. I know that your members are very generous and want to help out as much as they can and holding a food drive can be a very easy, yet efficient way to lend a helping hand. We can provide food collection barrels to hold donations as well as lists of most needed items and a packet of helpful tips to get the food drive started.
A member of your congregation can contact me at [email protected] or by calling 302-292-1305 ext. 253, or individual churches can contact me directly. Thank you for being a champion for hungry people in Delaware.
Warm wishes,
Caitlin Custer, Donor Outreach Coordinator, Food Bank of Delaware
A call to action for
Aldersgate!
Share the Journey 12 March 2014
Thursdays—6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Are you facing a separation or in the middle of a divorce
situation? Have you been divorced in the past year? Need
some Christian friends and a safe, confidential, support group
to talk it out and begin to heal? Do you know someone in such
a situation?
Contact Randy Husbands by calling the church office
302-478-2575 or by e-mail @ [email protected].
GriefShare
GriefShare, a grief recovery support group,
welcomes all those who are grieving the loss of
a loved one.
Tuesday mornings—10 to 11:30 a.m. in room 236
Thursday evenings—7 to 8:30 p.m. in room 236
Please call the church office at 302-478-2575. For more
information: http://www.griefshare.org/
Tuesday, March 18
11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Fellowship Hall
The United Methodist Men will meet at 11:45 a.m. for fellowship followed by lunch at 12 noon in Fellowship Hall.
The speaker will be Ted Van Name, past president of Goodwill of Delaware and Delaware County. He will speak about the origins of Goodwill which was the United Methodist Church and bring us up to date in the development of this organization. Over his 20 year tenure Goodwill Team Members increased from 80 to hundreds of thousand with over 75% of whom have some barrier to employment. In 2012, Goodwill provided over 25,000 services to individuals in the community. Come and celebrate this heartwarming story that includes YOU.
Mark your calendars! It’s the third Tuesday in March (the 18th….at 11:45 a.m.) Guests are welcome. If you are not on the “contact list” sign up in the HUB and indicate your choice of sub (turkey, roast beef, Italian or ham). All are welcome!
If you have any questions contact Tom Short, Bob Hawkins or George McKeown or send email to: [email protected]
Aldersgate UMC is A Caring Community
Intentionally ministering to persons with
mental illness and their families.
Articles and pictures for the April Messenger are due
by Monday, March 17. Leave your submission in
the Communications mailbox # 53 (upper right hand
corner) or email to: [email protected]
Our Special Lenten Services will be:
Please join our United Methodist brothers and sisters as we journey through Lent together.
Wednesday, March 5 @ 7 pm—Ash Wednesday
Hillcrest-Bellefonte UMC 400 Hillcrest Ave., Wilmington, DE 19809
Thursday, April 17 @ 7 pm—Maundy Thursday
Aldersgate UMC
Friday, April 18 @ 7 pm—Good Friday
Chester Bethel UMC 2619 Foulk, Rd, Wilmington, DE 19810
Is There a Doctor, PA or Nurse Practitioner
in the House?
Provided by Carolyn Fleckenstein
Do you know of a Doctor, Physician’s Assistant or Nurse Practitioner who might be interested in a mission experience to India in October? The Mission trip to India will almost certainly happen and it would be excellent to be able to offer a medical component. Thanks & please contact:
Curt Knouse, Director of Volunteers in Mission and Outreach, Susquehanna Conference UMC
717-994-6294 or www.susmb.org
https://www.facebook.com/SusquehannaConferenceUmcVolunteersInMission
Lent begins
Wednesday,
March 5
Share the Journey 13 March 2014
Sharon Jennelly, Director of Children’s
Ministry & Aldersgate Preschool
302.478.2575 ext.118
It seems that this year has been a very fast moving one for the
student ministry at Aldersgate. I feel like we were just in
Jamaica a few weeks ago, and now it’s March; which means the
church and community recently enjoyed watching our fantastic
students and adults in the musical, Peter Pan, Jr. Aldersgate is
blessed to not only have fantastic students, but adults who
pour their time and energy into the play on a yearly basis. Thank you for your time and investment in the students!
This past month, I received a call from the mission agency that coordinated our trip to Jamaica. They were calling in to check in on
our group and see what our mission plans were for this coming year. They wanted to let me know that they really enjoyed working
with our church and praised the work ethic of our group, and the attitudes of the students who worked so hard in Jamaica. They
informed me that they don’t often call churches that have previously served with them, but so enjoyed working with us that they
wanted to see if we could work with them again this summer! I informed them of our mission plans this summer and they
encouraged me to check back with them as we plan future trips. Our students and adults represented Aldersgate very well in
Jamaica, and have made a great impression on the mission agency that we served with in Jamaica. After serving in youth ministry
for several years I can tell you that an organization calling you back singing praises of students is very rare! Aldersgate is blessed to
have such amazing students in the church, and this group would not be who they are without parents and church members
investing in their lives.
(Student Ministry News—Continued on page 14)
Student Ministry News
Adam West
Director of Student Ministry
302.478.2575 ext. 115
ALDERSGATE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Student Minis ry
Mark your calendars for these
special children’s events in 2014:
Support Aldersgate Preschool at Grotto’s – Wednesday, April 2 from 4 to 8 p.m.
Register now for:
Vacation Bible School June 16 to 20 9 a.m. to Noon.
Christian Summer Day Camp At Aldersgate Church July 21 to 25 and July 28 to August 1
11 a.m. on the playground (or in the church if raining)
followed by games, crafts, Easter Bunny, Rita’s Ice Guy,
Merrimakers Clowns, crafts and snacks (Rita’s and soft
pretzels) in Fellowship Hall.
Children up to 10 years old can hunt for eggs.
Share Aldersgate’s fellowship with the community.
Bring a friend and your own Easter basket to collect
eggs and receive a prize!
Register for this event: call (302) 478-2575 ext. 118, or
email [email protected] and let us
know how many will attend or to volunteer by April 5.
Children are a Blessing
Psalm 127:3-5
3 Sons are indeed a heritage from the
Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior
are the sons of one’s youth. 5 Happy is the man who has his quiver
full of them.
He shall not be put to shame when he
speaks with his enemies in the gate.
Share the Journey 14 March 2014
Help us “FLY” this year!
In the theatre, people that provide financial support to help underwrite the cost of doing a show are called
“Angels.” If you would like to become an Aldersgate Youth Musical “Angel,” please fill out the form below
with a check made payable to Aldersgate UMC with Youth Musical in the subject line. All contributions are tax
deductible. Forms and checks should be given to Janet Atwater, placed in her box in the Hub, or mailed to her
at: Janet Atwater, 2 Cossart Manor Road Chadds Ford, PA 19317
THANK YOU!
Aldersgate Youth Musical “Angels” Program
Name: _______________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________
Amount Donated: [ ] $25 [ ] $50 [ ] $100 [ ] $250 [ ] Other ____
May we list your name in the program as an “Angel”? [ ] YES [ ] NO
Friday, March 7th @ 7 pm
Saturday, March 8th @ 2 pm
Sunday, March 9th @ 2 pm
Peter Pan JR. is the timeless tale of the boy who wouldn’t grow up and the girl who has to. Wendy Darling loves
to tell stories to her brothers, Michael and John. But when her father announces she must move out of the
nursery, Peter Pan comes to visit the children and whisks them away to Never Land, where they meet Lost Boys,
mermaids, indians and, of course, pirates. If the children are ever to return home, Peter must defeat the
infamous Captain Hook with the help of Tinker Bell and her fairy friends. Peter Pan JR. features classic songs
from the 1953 film such as, “You Can Fly!,” “Following the Leader” and “The Second Star to the Right” as well as
songs from the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and the 2008 Disney film Tinker Bell.
The show is approximately an hour long & suitable for ALL ages!
Admission is FREE, but donations will be gratefully accepted.
As you may know, this summer we’re going to North Dakota to serve alongside United Methodist missionaries. To help raise funds the student ministry has created a job board outside my office. If you have odd jobs that you would like to be completed (by one or more students) please post them along with the amount you are willing to pay. Our students would be happy to help you to raise money for the trip this summer.
Thank you all for the support of our students,
Adam
(Student Ministry News—Continued from page 13)
Share the Journey 15 March 2014
Notes from The Music Guy
Jeffrey Manns
Director of Music Ministry
(302) 478-2575 ext. 120
The Chancel Choir
and Bell Choir are
both seeking new
members. Won’t you
consider joining the
Music Ministry at
Aldersgate? Contact
Jeff Manns, Director
of Music Ministry for
more information.
Arts @ Aldersgate proudly presents
The St. Mary of the Woods Chorale and Madrigal Singers Spring Tour Concert
Tuesday, March 11 at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary Free Admission
Founded in 1958, the Chorale and Madrigals are the performing choral ensembles at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. The Chorale is open to any student with a passion for singing, while the Madrigals is an auditioned chamber ensemble which performs more challenging repertoire. These ensembles have performed throughout the United States, as well as Canada, Germany, Austria, Italy, and France. In addition, they have commissioned and premiered several new choral works for women. Most recently, they premiered and toured France singing a new French work for women’s voices titled La Providence, composed for them by popular Haitian-American composer Sydney Guillaume.
Music Ministry Rehearsals:
Brass Ensemble: Wednesdays
at 6:30 p.m. (Sanctuary)
Chancel Choir: Wednesdays at
7:30 p.m. (Music Center)
Bell Choir: Thursdays at
7:15 p.m. (Bell Choir Room)
You can place altar flowers in the Sanctuary for a Sunday of your choosing in 2014 by contacting Meredith McGregor. Please call Meredith at 302-235-5601 or place a check for $45 payable to Aldersgate United Methodist Church in mailbox #22 in the Hub. Be sure to include the date and the tribute.
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
598
Wilmington, DE
19850
Aldersgate United Methodist Church—A significant place where disciples are made!
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Pastor Chris’ Message 1
AUMC Summer Camp 2
SPRC Spotlight 3
Finance Update 3
Family Promise Jobs 4
Seeking the Light - Lenten Series 5
Rummage Sale Information 6,7
Church News 8
UMW Spring Fling 8
2014 Budget 9
Outreach (GO Team) Budget 10
Care for Creation Articles 11
UMM Monthly Meeting 12
Children’s Update 13
Student Ministry Update 13
Peter Pan Jr. 14
Notes from the Music Guy 15
Aldersgate Eggstravaganza 16
What’s Inside...What’s Inside...What’s Inside...
Easter Egg Hunt at 11 am
Mark Your Calendars!
Get your SNEAKERS out!
Walk / Run around Fairfax
Aldersgate’s 1st 5K
Saturday, April 12
Sign in begins at 8 am
Run/Walk begins at 9 am
Early Registration $20 / Day of $25
Easter Egg Hunt & More at 11 am
