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CHIMESMay 2015 • Westminster Presbyterian Church •www.westminstergr.org

Education “Worship, Study, and Faithful Acts of Service...”

CHIMESA publication of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

47 Jefferson Ave SE • Grand Rapids • MI • 49503 • 616-456-1456

Senior Pastor letter 3 Honoring Education

Weekly Devotions for May 3

Education 4-5 •Sherrill Vore shares her years as Minister for Christian Education and Family Life •Rotation Curriculum

Elder for Children's Ministries •Sharing Sherrill's impact on Education 6

Educational Programming 7 •Children's Education •Conversations for Adults about Life & Faith •Family Camp update •“Library Steward”

Partnership for Misson 8 Rev. Jen Porter gives a report

Core Missions 8-10 •Downtown Pantry •Westminster Child Development Center •Camp Henry

Music Schedule 11 •Music for Worship •Education - How we learn in our choirs •End of season programming

Large Print Hymnals 11 Special donation

News Item 12 Can you help solve a history mystery?

Youth Group 13 •Faith Seeks Understanding • Acolyte Coaching

Small Group News and Events 14-15

Worship schedule may 2015 - 8:30 and 11:00

may 3: "Praxis Makes Perfect" The Fifth Sunday of Easter Sacrament of the Lord's Supper Rev. Chandler Stokes preaching Scripture: Mark 12:28-37 Music: Stacey Tanner, Cello at 8:30a Sanctuary Choir at 11:00a may 10: "MissionMatters" The Sixth Sunday of Easter Rev. Chandler Stokes preaching Scripture: Mark 12:38-44 Music: Deb Eid and Family at 8:30a Cantus, Cherub, Carol, and Sanctuary Choirs at 11:00a

may 17: “When in our Music God is Glorified” The Seventh Sunday of Easter Rev. Chandler Stokes preaching Scripture: Revelation 4:1-11 Music: Sanctuary Choir at 8:30a and 11:00a

We begin our summer Worship schedule of one service at 10:00a beginning may 24

may 24: “the Vulnerable sPirit” Pentecost Sunday Rev. Chandler Stokes preaching Scripture: Acts 2:1-21 Music: Sanctuary Choir at 10:00a

may 31: “What the sPirit is sayinG” Trinity Sunday Rev. Chandler Stokes preaching Scripture: Romans 8:12-17 Music: Sanctuary Choir at 10:00a

Westminster Presbyterian Church | Chimes 3

Honoring Education

IntroductIon from the senIor pastor

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Grace and peace to you in the Lord Jesus Christ and in God our Creator.

This issue of the Chimes focuses on Education at Westminster, where we are called not merely to be students who learn but disciples who follow; where we learn together, worship together, and do faithful acts of service together; where our commitment to those three “legs of the stool” are as critical to our future as a congregation, as is the hour between our worship services.

Implicit behind all of that is the presence of Sherrill Vore for the past twenty-two years. Her attentiveness, love, intellect, and affection have deeply influenced what makes education and formation happen here. To me, Sherrill is our Theologian-in-Residence. The five-year cycle of stories in the rotation model is just one of those theological gifts. I walk into Sherrill’s office often. I cherish her insight: pastorally and theologically.

The Latin root of the word “education” means “to draw out.” I have seen her ability to draw us out. That is part of Sherrill’s genius. In her gracious presence, she has consistently left room for us, such that our own gifts have been drawn out in service to God. We seek her company in part, because her authentic witness and her deep questioning leave room for us and our spirits and allow the Spirit to draw us out. She has all the virtues of genuine wisdom: good humor, attention to detail, an ability to work long and hard, gracious thank you notes, an ability to connect and empathize—all these gifts are extraordinary.

In a word: Sherrill is wise. Proverbs tells us that wisdom is with the humble (11:2). I know that she will be embarrassed by the attention we give her, but we would be fools not to acknowledge her gifts and thank God for them.

Grace and peace,

Rev. Chandler Stokes

the week of May 3—Mark 12:28-37 The scribe leaves out his “life” in his quotation. Maybe that’s all that faith really asks: give our lives. Not easy, yet how we spend our hours and days is how we spend our lives. Prayer: Holy God, show me how I might give my life today. Amen.

the week of May 10—Mark 12:38-44 The widow makes a sacrifice. That’s what giving is. It’s time to decide about our pledge to MissionMatters. Prayer: Holy God, let me hear what you are asking of me. Make me bold and generous. Amen.

the week of May 17—Revelation 4:1-11 Music is in heaven too—and here can remind us instantly that

life is bigger than money, more that possessions, more than honors. Prayer: Holy God, remind me of the deeper value of my life and the lives of others always. Amen.

the week of May 24—Acts 2:1-21 Walter Brueggeman said, “The Spirit is wind and not wall. It is possibility and not coercion. It is opportunity and not threat.” Prayer: Holy God, fill me with you wind, help me see possibility and opportunity. Amen.

the week of May 31—Romans 8:12-17 I am a child of God. I am a child of God. It is true. Prayer: Holy God, deepen this simple truth within me. Help me act as if I were yours. Amen.

4 Chimes | Westminster Presbyterian Church

When you watch Sherrill teach, listen to a prayer she's written, or witness her interactions with others, you realize you're in the presence of someone really wonderful. Sherrill is someone who has been blessed with incredible gifts and has truly lived into her calling. I don't believe for a second that this will stop with her retirement, only that she will find new ways of doing this at a more relaxed pace! —Jen Kotchenruther

EDUCATION…. Religious educator, John Westerhof, suggests that a faith community such as ours that hopes to be vibrant needs to do three things with regularity: we need to worship together, we need to study together, and we need to perform faithful acts of service together. It is a succinct statement of three key aspects of discipleship. In it we may hear echoes of the commission that Jesus gives followers at the close of the Gospel of Matthew: go, baptize, teach.

Westminster can claim a pretty serious commitment to Westerhof’s vision. The periodic assessments of our shared vision and long range goal-setting always reflect a concern for the integrity of our worship, for naming outreach to our community and service to our neighbors as foundational and for commitment to the role of education in our lives together, especially in the

nurture of our children and youth. Without debate or hesitation this congregation supports two full-time staff positions focused on education and additional

part-time staffing. Frequent discussions among staff members and with Session elders focus on the ways in which we can weave together worship themes and teaching opportunities, participation and reflection so that each aspect informs the others.

We try to remember that good questions are critical. Regardless of the age-level of the questioner, we are always trying to figure out how to live in the world in light of the Gospel—to understand who we are, what we do and how we make decisions as people who know God’s presence and call. Our elementary-aged children take part in a workshop-centered education model, working with one biblical story for a month at a time, engaging with it through drama, art, sometimes science or cooking but always working to relate it to what is real and present in their lives. Adult groups try to think about what is happening in the world and how we can bring our faith--that affirms that the realm of

God is already present--to bear upon our understanding and our hope. Cross-generational events and service opportunities allow us to both model faith engagement for the younger people in our midst and to learn from their sharp and honest interaction what rings true in what we say and do.

You may have noted the emphasized word in the first sentence above: vibrant. We use this word to suggest “full of life,” “vigorous,” and “rich” and it can be applied not only to a way of being, but to a sound—a musical note. That seems a particularly apt metaphor for a faith community. What song will we sing to sustain not only ourselves but those around us? What note will have a lasting resonance? Surely it will be one gathered from the rhythms of our prayer and praise, our intentional sharing of questions and reflections and our work in and for the Kingdom of God. —Sherrill Vore, Minister for Christian Education and Family Life.

"Worship, Study, and Faithful Acts of Service..." Christian Education at Westminster

We have asked Sherrill to write this article about Christian Education here at Westminster. You can see how importantly she has shaped us all—in what she writes and in what others say about her. We have also asked her to share with all of us one of the Rotation Lesson Plans (next page) because most of us know only that something called “rotation” exists. Some sixty of you volunteers every year know how rich they all are and how important they are for you as you teach the children. Those of you receiving this electronically can click on the link (Rotation #8 next page) to read the three pages of detail behind this cover page…others of you can get a copy from Becky in the office (717-5532). We celebrate Sherrill’s education legacy and we thank God for the gift she is to all of us. —Dave Baak

educatIon

Westminster Presbyterian Church | Chimes 5

ROTATION #8 2014-2015 Witnesses To God’s Presence: A Stranger on The RoadThe Art Room (April 19 and 26, 2015)

SCRIPTURE: Luke 24:13-35KEY SCRIPTURE: “When he was at the table with them, he

took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them.

Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him…”

Luke 24:30-31a

FOCUS: We will explore the idea of how visual perception is affected by what we expect to

see. This may impact the way in which we witness God’s presence in the world—or

fail to do so! After we talk, we’ll make a visual example to help us remember our

conversation.

OBJECTIVES: • ThechildrenwillbeabletolocatethestoryofthetravelerstoEmmausinLuke

• Thechildrenwillbeabletoarticulateatleastoneortworeasonswhythetravelers

might not have recognized Jesus.

• Thechildrenwillbeabletoidentifytheexperiencethatallowedthetravelersto

recognize Jesus. • Thechildrenwillbeabletosummarizeeffectivelytheideathatitiseasiertosee

God’s presence if you are watching for it.MATERIALS: * Bibles and The Family Story Bible

* several mounted pictures featuring optical illusions

* wood block with the word Jesus optical illusion

* the OpticalIllusionJesus paper (white image with 4 dots in center)

* paper plate with primary colors and yarn spinner

* plates trimmed and holes punched

* 30 inch pieces of yarn cut

The few months I've worked alongside Sherrill have been too short, but they have been a gift.

Several times this year I've taken advantage of her always-open door. In her thoughtfulness,

patience, wisdom, and kindness she has shown this perpetual student what it

means to teach. Thank you, Sherrill. —Kyle Nolan

Sherrill is uniquely gifted in her depth of knowledge of theology, liturgy, and how to connect in developmentally appropriate ways to adults and children of all ages. She does not avoid the inevitable hard questions about life and faith, but rather digs in for stimulating conversation and education that is informed by her reading and research of the Bible and biblical scholars. —Lara Dengerink-Van Til

educatIon

6 Chimes | Westminster Presbyterian Church

“And it's hard to put into words all that she has done.”

For the past 22 years Sherrill Vore has made Children's Worship time such a precious time. From making sure the children in nursery are lovingly cared for to planning meaningful lessons for children in church school, the goal has been to teach the children the stories of God and to help them to become his people in this world.

But Sherrill has always felt that children's worship doesn't just take place in the confines of a classroom, and it's hard to put into words all that she has done. When words escape us, we can think about the times when we have seen the little ones run, walk, and even shyly move up to the front during the service so that young and old can recite the blessing to each other. As the children get older, they stay during the service either going off to their education classes after the service or attending classes before arriving in the sanctuary. The time spent right next to their parents, watching them sing, pray, and listen among a group of people who are seeking to know God is such an amazing thing. It is a blessing for the adults to see the children looking up at their parents to see what their parents are doing and joining their parents as they read the bible or sing a hymn. Perhaps they are thinking, "This is what we do. This is right to sing and praise God." A few weeks back at the close of the service we joined the young people and sang "Jesus Loves Me." I am sure many of us were brought back to a time when we ourselves were children, and we first learned that song during our education time at church.

In church the children are learning who God is and how to worship him, imprinting on their minds and their hearts the sense of what church is all about, and how God's people come together to show and share his love. That is what Christian Education is about at Westminster.

Kathy Smith Elder for Children's Ministries

Sherrill with 3rd grade bible presentations.

Sherrill leading Adult Education discussion.

Sherrill after worship service.

educatIon

Westminster Presbyterian Church | Chimes 7

Educational programs offered for all ages

children’s education and choir meets 9:30-10:45a each sunday

Preschool and Kindergarten (Downstairs groups) During the weeks of May the children will focus on the gifts of the Spirit that come to us individually and to the church to empower us as we work together to follow Christ. Teachers: Jeanne Early, Durelle Evans, Deb Larson, Carrie Moskol, and Edie Bultman Choir Director: Cara Hyink accompanied by Lisa Duitman

1st through 5th We’ll conclude our year of exploring the ways in which we witness to the presence of God (both as those who “see” and as those who proclaim) by exploring the work of the church in the world. How do we gather? What kinds of things do we do that do, indeed, proclaim “the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living?” On May 17 we will also celebrate our 5th graders and send them on toward Middle School with blessings! Teachers: Scott Weaver, Sarah Faasse, Sherrill Vore

conversations for adults about life and faith - meets sundays 9:40 - 10:40a

Join us in the chapel for most sessions

May will bring a 3-week series of interactive discussions on topics related to mental health concerns, challenges, support systems, and the church community. The team of Westminster folks who have been working for a year or so to develop a referral catalog of therapists and to think about our needs as a congregation will lead us. Please see the education flyer and watch the bulletin for specific topics. PLEASE CHECK THE BULLETIN, THE INFORMATION BOARDS IN THE GATHERING PLACE, AND/OR THE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

Want to be reminded of the adult classes each Week? Sign up on Sunday morning for the e-mail reminder, or call or email Becky Wells, 717-5532, beckyw@westminstergr.org.

Family Camp - Gathered on the Cusp!We will gather at Camp Henry on Labor Day weekend again this year—Thursday afternoon, September 3 through Sunday afternoon, September 6. We’ll be closing out the summer of 2015 and gathering our energy, breath and focus to launch the fall. A new school year will be beckoning and perhaps changes in the dynamics of your family (kindergarten? middle school? A first child off to college? The LAST child off to college?) Perhaps there are changes in the rhythm of your own life anticipated in this year. (A new job? Retirement? Marriage?) This is a wonderful opportunity to gather with others in this church community for quiet conversation and active, intentional play! On Sunday we’ll worship with WPC staff and choir and then picnic together as well. Registrations will be available on May 3. Mark your calendars and make use of this transition treasure!

The WPC library is getting a makeover!

The church library, which has existed for many years in several locations in our buildings, has developed into a fine resource for spiritual & faith related materials for all members & their children, is in need of some TLC. Accordingly, several members calling themselves "Library Stewards" have come together to clean & reorganize the library so it is more user-friendly by placing the library's contents into subject groupings identified by shelf labels, to provide clear instructions for self check-out & return of materials and provide regular shelving of returned materials. The Stewards plan to meet & work weekly in order to complete their initial reorganization by early September or before. During the process, feel free to check-out & return materials as usual. Please contact Dick Hubbard with any comments or questions. Library Stewards Committee

educatIon

8 Chimes | Westminster Presbyterian Church

mIssIon and core mIssIons

Through our Worldwide ministries committee, our congregation has been developing two partnerships. As we travel to Cuba, there is potential for us to continue to connect with the Guines Presbyterian Church. Closer to home, within our presbytery we finding opportunities to partner with the First Presbyterian Church in Benton Harbor. The goal of both of these is to develop relationships and to share in ministry together, discovering how we can encourage and support one another. But we need to think about how and why. Wherever and however we join where God is at work, we need to look at mission through the lens of education asking questions like:

• Whatis“Partnership”?Whatdoes“Partnership”meanandwhatdoesitlooklike?

• Whatarewecalledtodoandbe?Whyarewedoingwhatwe’redoing?Whatare the implications?

• Howdoweneedtogrowinourawarenessofourownassumptionsandperceptions?

• Asweinteractandlearnfromoneanother,howhavetheexperienceswe’vehadimpactedourfaithandour lives? What have we learned and how does that impact what we believe?

Mission and Education naturally go hand in hand. We’ve seen that in practice, as the youth, Emerging Westminster, Life and Learning, and Justice and Peace engaged together in discussion about the Selma movie. We’ve seen that in practice as Life and Learning invited George Barfield, from Benton Harbor First, to facilitate conversation about race. We’ve seen that in practice as Community Ministries reflects about our support and involvement with organizations in our community. And we will see that in practice as Community Ministries invites us to participate in some new service opportunities in the fall intentionally engaging in reflection and study at the same time. We look for ways that we can mindfully serve the world together.

Grace and Peace, Rev. Jen Porter, Associate Pastor

Westminster Food Pantry has recently partnered with the Grand Rapids Red Project. Most of you know that, in addition to our regular pantry, we have a specialized pantry for clients with HIV/AIDS. This pantry is funded by the State and we offer a variety of high protein foods. The Grand Rapids Red Project has been working in HIV prevention and education since 1998, first with the CleanWorks syringe access program starting in 2000, support groups for individuals living with HIV in 2010 and then with their HIV Counseling, Testing and Referral program starting in 2013.

By offering a venue at Westminster once per month for testing and educational services, the Food Pantry’s goal is to assist the Red Project in increasing community awareness of the current landscape of HIV in Kent County including the value of Testing and Treatment as Prevention. If you would like more information feel free to contact me.

Angie Kelley, Food Pantry Director, angiek@westminstergr.org or 616-717-5581

Downtown Pantry

Let's take "Partnership for example...

Rev. Jen Porter

Westminster Presbyterian Church | Chimes 9

core mIssIons

Westminster Child Development CenterWe all learn, teach, and grow together It is the goal of WCDC to provide high quality education for all the children we serve. These early years are vital to their life long learning and development. Research shows that providing a high quality education for children before they turn five yields significant long-term benefits. One well-known study, the HighScope Perry Preschool Study, found that individuals who were enrolled in a quality preschool program were more likely to graduate from high school than those who didn’t.

Early childhood teachers teach children about early developmental skills in preschool like reading, writing, math, and science. For many students, this is their first structured learning experience, and a unique opportunity for meaning that early childhood teachers to show their students an elevated level of nurturing and attention. It is this level of nurturing and support that creates a wonderful learning environment where children can flourish in every area of development.

At WCDC, it isn’t just about learning to read, write and count. It is also an opportunity for these young children to learn about their world around them, develop their large and fine motor skills, and practice social skills. This is done through a teacher/student partnership model. We have moved away from the notion that teachers know everything and have instead traded that in for a more child-focused learning practice. This partnership allows us to encourage children to find their own answers rather than looking to a teacher to answer for them. This model is more rewarding for both the child and the teacher as it allows both of them to learn and share experiences together in a new and interesting way.

Our teachers plan lessons with interest piquing themes, like “insects” that spark imagination. The theme encompasses everything from math and literacy, to sensory and dramatic play, making every learning experience fun, interesting, and exciting. Early learning experiences pave the way for a life long love of knowledge and exploration. Amber Marz-Momany, Director

Children teaching Jackie how to have fun in the leaves.

Teacher, Kristen teaching children how to snow paint.

Asiah teaching the children about riding on

a school bus.

Always learning, always teaching, always growing together at WCDC!

10 Chimes | Westminster Presbyterian Church

What can a kid learn at summer camp?

The American Camp Association (ACA) asked thousands of kids from across the country what they learned at summer camp. Here is some of what the kids had to say:

Can you think of things you learned and did at camp last summer that helped you in school this year? • “Iwasmoreconfident,wantedtoknoweverything,wasexcitedtobeinschoolandgetgoodgradesin7th grade.”(12-year-old female) • “Myexperiencehelpedmelookatchallengingsituationsdifferentlyandinsteadofgivingup,findingaway around them.” (14-year-old female) • “Ilearnedhowtobeonmyownwithoutsomeonewithmeallthetime.”(12-year-oldmale) • “IlearnedtohavemorepatienceandtoappreciatethethingsIhave.”(10-year-oldfemale) • “IfeelthatIambetteratinteractingwithfriendsandfamily.Thepeopleskillslearnedatcampaffectedme dramatically when I went home.”(15-year-old male) • “Leadership,organization,water-skiing,makemybed,keepmystuffclean,tokeepintouchwithmyfriends, respect, how to handle pressure.” (13-year-old female)

If explaining camp to friends, what would you say you learn here? • “Ilearnedtolistentowhatotherpeoplesay.”(10-year-oldmale) • “Ilearnedalotofteamworkskills.”(13-year-oldfemale) • “Youlearnhowtorelatetopeopleonaleveldeeperthanthatofschooloreverydaylifebecauseyoulive together.” (14-year-old female) • “Ilearnalotaboutrespectandmyrealvaluesinlife,whattheyreallyshouldbe.”(14-year-oldfemale) • “Valueslikehowtoberesponsibleandrespectful.”(13-year-oldfemale) • “Youlearnmostlyhowtointeractwithdifferentkindsofpeopleandareopentodifferentideas.Youlearn how to cooperate well with others who share and don't share the same opinions as you.” (15-year-old female)

What did you learn at camp? • “Ilearnedmostlyabouthowtogetalongwithmypeers,butalsoIlearnedtotakeonmoreresponsibilities like managing a schedule and helping to take care of younger campers.” (14-year-old male) • “OnemainthingIlearnedlastyearwastobemoreopentoothers.Thatespeciallyhelpedmeintomyfirst year of high school. It helped me get to know more people and to not judge them by their physical appearance, but rather the person they really are.” (15-year-old female) • “Ilearnedtocleanmyroomandtogetalongwithothers.”(10-year-oldmale) • “WhenIamatcampIamtotallyateasebecauseoftheconstantfun,activities,andtheemphasisonself- discovery. I feel totally comfortable.”(14-year-old female)

We can hardly wait to have kids playing, laughing, discovering, exploring, reflecting, growing, and learning at Camp Henry this summer!

Camp Henry

core mIssIons

Westminster Presbyterian Church | Chimes 11

musIc

Large Print Hymnals are Now Available

Schedule of April Worship Music

• May 3 8:30a Stacey Tanner, Cello 11:00a Sanctuary Choir • May 10 8:30a Deb Eid and Family 11:00a Cantus, Cherub, Carol, and Sanctuary Choir

• May 17 8:30a Sanctuary Choir 11:00a Sanctuary Choir

• May 24 10:00a Sanctuary Choir

• May 31 10:00a Sanctuary Choir Christian Education is a large part of the music program. Our Carol Choir (3rd—5th grade) and Chapel Singers (6th—8th grade) enjoy a fun way of education when they learn about scripture through their musical, which was “Life of the Party” this year. They learned about Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, and also about some parables told by Jesus. As another example of Christian Education, the last time the Cantus Choir (our youngest choir) sang in church, they recited a Bible verse before singing their song. Both the Cherub (1st and 2nd grade) and Carol choirs work on singing hymns out of our new hymnal, “Glory to God.” The Kirk Singers (high school) sing “How Can I Keep from Singing” every year. In that song, the text refers to the “tempest’ and “storms” that occur in people’s lives, but points out that faith will help overcome the obstacles. In the Sanctuary Choir music, many composers employ “text-

Music Schedule and upcoming events

painting,” where the composer musically reflects the text. This happens often in the music of Handel and Stephen Paulus.

In many instances, the choir people remember the texts because they remember the songs. Young people in their 20’s can still sing songs they learned as children for the spring musical. Choir people of all ages have choir songs running through their heads all week long, a phenomenon that can be a little annoying, but at least the songs have left their mark!

Our Children's and Youth Choirs will have their end-of-the-year program in the sanctuary on Sunday, May 3 at 4:00p. The Cantus, Cherub and Carol Choir, and Kirk Singers will all sing one piece, and the Chapel Ringers will ring handbells. Following the program, pizza and ice cream sundaes will be served for all in the dining room. Everyone is invited to attend this program!

On May 17, the Sanctuary Choir will present two anthems by Benjamin Britten, “Festival Te Deum,” and “Jubilate Deo.” The text for “Festival Te Deum” is from the Book of Common Prayer, and “Jubilate Deo” is based on Psalm 100. These two anthems are difficult technically, but are very fine representations of the classical choral literature and are well worth the time required to learn them. Our Sanctuary Choir will continue singing for Sunday services through June 7.

The large-print edition of our new Presbyterian Hymnal, Glory to God, was recently published, and copies are now available in the narthex for those who might like to use this new easy-to-read version. They are located on a table to the right of the central aisle doorway, so you may pick up a copy as you enter for worship. The very same table will always have a supply of our large-print bulletins as well. It is easy to tell the large-print version from the regular hymnal, since its color is black, rather than the purple of the regular hymnal. The content and numbering of the hymnal is identical to the regular new hymnal in all respects, except that there is no music, but the text size of the hymns is much larger for easier reading and singing. All of the useful annotations, descriptions, and hymn

attributions, including author, tune names, dates, etc. from the regular hymnal are also present in a larger type size. If you need any assistance in locating these large-print resources for worship, the ushers will be glad to help you. You may leave the hymnals on the seats at the end of the service.

Frank Van Haven Elder for Music

12 Chimes | Westminster Presbyterian Church

Have you ever found something in your attic or basement that you thought might have an important connection to your family’s past, but you weren’t quite sure? That’s what happened to the WPC Trustees as we made an inspection tour of the building.

In a corner of the basement we found this commemorative plaque. It measures 48” x 30”, and on it are 36 names, spelled out in individual wooden letters. Perhaps at one time, there was a second piece with a title, but if there was, it’s now long gone; so, we are left with a “history mystery”.

Someone thought that it recognized men and women who had served during WW II and were members of WPC at the time the plaque was made (late 1940s/early 1950s?)? We’ve done some research and have been able to identify several of the individuals as surviving veterans of that conflict. But there are still lots of questions, so we are asking for your help.

1) Do you ever remember seeing this plaque hanging anywhere in WPC? Someone suggested it might have hung in the gymnasium – that perhaps it was a project done by the Sea Scout troop (sponsored for a number of years by WPC) that used to meet there.

2) Did you know (or know of) any of the people listed below? Were they veterans of WW II? In which branch of the Armed Forces did they serve? Were they members of WPC? If so, approximately when?

3) Several of the names are marked with a star (actually, there are two different types of stars) – what could that designation mean?

36 names in the order listed on the plaque:

* = flat star, + = beveled star, > = place for missing star

* Thomas R. Hoover * Russell D. Reveal > Campbell H. Steketee + Willis L. Dixon * Jeanne Montgomery * Robert Van Kuiken Albert L. Birdsall Hugh J. Kennedy Jr. Roger W. ???dens Warren Bender > Kenneth N. Hurst + J. Royal Klaasse * Farrell J. Tompkins + Jack J. Luidens * Kenneth Warn Sally Yonkman * James W. Dever Eleanor Hadley

Warren E. Johnson Jr. Marian F. Johnson James W. Bur?er * Philip ?. Beukema H. Bradshaw Heyl Andrew Van Ysseldyke Jr. + Lewis A. Crozier James L. Whyte + Frank Vankuiken > Robert F. Nash > Elizabeth MacFadden + Melvin B. Markel + Arthur Markendorf Raymond L. Boozer * Robert M. Eaton Lawrence F. Calahan * John E. Panney Theo H. Elferdin? Jr.

This month marks the 70th anniversary of Victory-in-Europe Day (May 8 1945), which brought the fighting of WW II to an end in that part of the world. The war in the Pacific continued until August of that year when Japan finally surrendered.

If this plaque recognizes members of our WPC family who played a part in these historic events, we want to restore this memorial and remember their sacrifice and service.

Please contact Marcie Beck, beckmarcella7@gmail.com, or Chris Bronson, chrisb@westminstergr.org, to share information that could help solve this history mystery.

news

Can you help solve this WPC history mystery?

WWII commemorative plaque.

Westminster Presbyterian Church | Chimes 13

Youth and Their Families

Youth and worshIp

Most Sundays during the education hour, Jeremy Bork leads Westminster’s middle school youth in reflecting on a Bible passage, either taken from the lectionary readings for the week, or from one of the passages to be read during worship. They talk about things like the meaning of the text, what is strange about it, and why this particular text might be appropriate to read in this particular season in the life of the church. What they are learning is consistently rooted in worship.

Recently, the high school youth requested to reinstate a youth group tradition that precedes my time here. They asked Sarah if, at the end of Sunday evening youth group, after the games, and the lesson, and conversation, and before everyone joins hands in a circle to sing and to pray, the Christ candle could be lit and placed in the center of the room. It is significant to them, evidently, that this symbol of Christ’s abiding presence be carried beyond the hour or so on Sunday morning when the whole congregation is gathered. Where these two things converge is in the recognition that worship is never far removed from anything

Westminster does—especially education. As I understand it, that’s a central part of Sherrill Vore’s legacy here. And it will no doubt continue to shape most everything Westminster does for years to come.

Kyle Nolan Minister to Youth and Their Families

Candles and Call to Worship“The most exciting day of my life was the first time I got to be an acolyte.” That from a 12-year-old who has now served in that role many times. Teaching acolytes to light the candles and coaching youth liturgists are two areas where worship committee members and young people--as young as second and third graders--interact. Worship and education overlap in a truly intergenerational blessing to both.

Barbara Roelofs teaches the children not only how to light the candles properly, and safely, but also the reason for them. They bring in the light as a symbol of Jesus' presence coming into the worship community.

Thirty different youth liturgists have led the congregation in the Call to Worship in the last nine months. Each one has prepared for this role by studying the text and practicing the reading. They serve us well and often discover something new about worship and about themselves.

Ruth E. Stubbs, Elder for Worship

Middle School youth teaching each other the

concept of "team work."

Faith Seeks Understanding

14 Chimes | Westminster Presbyterian Church

Small group news and eventsbread for the World letter Writing- may 17

Did you know that the federal child nutrition programs are reviewed and renewed by Congress every five years? They are up for re-authorization this year. The focus of BFW for 2015 is on domestic hunger and the programs for children in the U.S.

Our members of Congress will be making critical decisions regarding a variety of programs that operate as safety nets for food & nutritional needs of children in families that are struggling economically. Without these programs many children will suffer physically and emotionally.

Members of Congress want to hear from their constituents about issues on which they will vote. Mass emails are often ignored, but personal, hand written letters do influence our representative's decisions.

Immediately following worship on May 17, we encourage you to come to the Gathering Place to write these letters. There will be a form letter for you to sign and address to your Representative and both your Senators. We encourage you to add a personal note to this letter or write your own if you prefer. Members of the Justice and Peace Committee will deliver these letters to the local office of the Representative and the Senators after we dedicate them on May 24.

Jesus cared for all, but especially for the hungry & poor. Let's sit together and write letters to urge Congress to continue the much needed programs for the most vulnerable in society.

camp henry 5k trail run Camp Henry is thrilled to announce the 1st Annual Camp Henry 5K Trail Run sponsored by Celebration! Cinema, and Choice One Bank. Proceeds will benefit Camp Henry’s School and Summer Scholarship Funds. Participants can sign up for either a 5K competitive run, 5K walk, or a 1K Costume Fun Run. For more information, please go to camphenry.org/5ktrailrun.

Westminster presbyterian adults Providing Spiritual, educational, and social opportunities for adults 55 and up Westminster Presbyterian Adults (WPA) will be traveling to Lansing on Tuesday, May 12 to visit two small, relatively unknown, museums, the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum on the campus of MSU in East Lansing, and the R. E. Olds Transportation Museum in the city of Lansing. Nestled among the stately old buildings on campus, the contemporary Eli & Edythe Broad Art Museum was erected in 2012 . The museum has been featuring “The Genres: Portraiture, Still Life and Landscape.” We will be viewing the third installment of this exhibit – Landscape by Trevor Paglen, who is an emerging voice in contemporary artistic discourse. For the car buffs, the R. E. Olds Transportation Museum has thousands of irreplaceable items in their archives along with 52 vehicles from 1886 to 2003. The bus will depart Westminster at 8:00 AM and Porter Hills at 8:30. We will enjoy lunch at Clara's Lansing Station (the converted old Lansing railroad station) and dine in an old dining car. Registration forms are available at the desk in the Gathering Place. A $10.00 charge is payable with your reservation. The money is donated to one of the church's programs. Questions: contact Jeanne Marshall at 453-4738 or jmars13@comcast.net.

exploring faith On Wednesday, May 6, the Book Club will focus their discussion on Jon Meacham's book American Gospel: God, the Founding Fathers, and the Making of a Nation. This group meets on the first Wednesday of the month, September through May, so this will be our last meeting of the season. This month we will meet from 1:30-3:00p in the church parlor. If you have questions call Chuck Strikwerda at 245-6929. Join us, as always everyone is welcome.

elisabeth circle The Elisabeth Circle will meet on Tuesday, May 19 at 1:00p in the Parlor. Please watch the Sunday bulletins for information about the lesson. As this will be our year-end potluck, please join us at 11:45a, and bring a dish to pass. Sherrill Vore has graciously accepted our invitation to be our guest for lunch. Visitors and new members are always welcome. Call Lois Waldecker at 784-0900, with any questions.

small Groups

Westminster Presbyterian Church | Chimes 15

Westminster Works Each Thursday morning from 9:00a to 11:00a in the Westminster conference room, job seekers and experienced re-employment trainers engage in discussions regarding how to realize and apply practical ideas and theories of re-employment. Each morning these Round Table discussions begin with the reading of a spiritual reflection and Bible verse. We believe this moment of faith clears the minds and reduces the anxiety that unemployment brings. Shared ideas and well-founded theories are taught regarding individual and group practices and become a benefit for all involved. Persons interested, contact Larry Bratschie, Westminster Works Ministry Coordinator at 616-676-4191, or Ken Soper at the EaRN (Employment and Resource Network) website www.earn-network.org. Open enrollment or drop in attendance is also the pattern. Anyone from the community is welcome. A modest $5 donation is requested, but not mandatory. midWeek churchmen’s luncheon Weekly buffet luncheon Wednesdays at 11:30a, followed by fellowship and meditation, led by Rev. Don Gordon. Westminster Dining Room. May 6: Shandra Steininger is Director of HQ Drop-in Center for homeless youth, Grand Rapids. Topic: “Ministering to Homeless Youth.” May 13: Rev. Jeff Carlson is the Senior Pastor of Oakhill Church, Grand Rapids. Topic: “The Bible Speaks to Us” May 20: Rochelle Manor, is Director of Training at BRAINS Foundation, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Psychological Department and Ottawa Mental Health, Grand Rapids. Topic: “Empowering the Powerless.” May 27: Rev. Andrew Vander Maas, is Co-Pastor at Christ Church, Grand Rapids. Topic: “Sons of the Living God.”

Wpc fiction book groupThe WPC Fiction Book Group will meet on Sunday evening May 17 at 7:00p in the Youth Lounge. This is the last meeting before we take a break for summer vacation, and we will be discussing Angels Flight by Michael Connelly.

Although published in 1998, this novel speaks to an

issue that appears in the headlines of today’s news.

The man most hated by the LAPD - a black lawyer who has made his name by bringing lawsuits alleging racism and brutality by police officers - has been found murdered on the eve of a high-profile trial. The list of suspects included half the police force. And Harry Bosch is the detective chosen to head the investigation.

Reviewers praised the fast-paced plot and the depth of Bosch’s character. Patrick O’Kelley concluded:“Angels Flight is a detective's nightmare scenario and is disturbingly relevant to the racially tense last decade of the 20th century. Amidst the twists and turns of his complex narrative, Connelly affirms his rightful place among the masters of contemporary mystery fiction.”

Please join us for lively and thoughtful discussion. All are welcome. Contact Marcie Beck, beckmarcella7@gmail.com, with questions.

Small group news and events

small Groups

For more information on all Westminster groups, events, and worship schedules,

please visit our website www.westminstergr.org.

artprize update Westminster has decided not to be a venue for ArtPrize 2015. Over the last few years we have wrestled with and realized that our facility is not an ideal venue for showcasing ArtPrize artists for a couple of significant reasons. One, our space is visually quite busy which makes it difficult for an artist's work to stand out, and two, our location is just off the “beaten ArtPrize path,” and because of that we have seen a significant decline in the number of visitors to Westminster during ArtPrize, which ultimately is not a benefit to the artists who want their work to be seen by as many as possible. Additionally, any participation this year would be complicated by extensive construction that is scheduled for our facility into the fall. We will miss this important connection to our community, but feel our decision is in the best interest of the artists.

Non-Profit Org.

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Grand Rapids, MI

PERMIT NO. 323

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The deadline for June Chimes is May 10. Please submit any and all information for the Chimes to: chimes@wpcgr.org or to Becky Wells at beckyw@westminstergr.org. Thank you.