Cross & Comments - September 2011

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Change is Hard For everything there is a season,

and a time for every matter under heaven

~~ Ecclesiastes 3:1

On a Friday evening in early November 2010, theleadership of Community Reformed Church gathered at Camp

Fowler and read these words together. As we studied anddiscussed the familiar scriptures of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, we

shared how our personal lives have changed. Our careers havetaken turns, our children have been born, parents have passed,

spouses have disappointed, friends have lifted us – joys andsorrows – bounty and droughts. Each of us spoke of our

personal changes and challenges. We ended Friday evening inagreement. Change is hard.

On Saturday, we began a series of creative exercises and

questions based on the book Who Stole My Church: What toDo When the Church You Love Tries to Enter the 21 s

Century by Gordon MacDonald. We explored how worship haschanged over the centuries and especially over the past severa

decades. We discussed the social and economic impacts oftoday’s world on our church. We looked at our needs, concerns,

likes, dislikes, dreams, and memories. We reviewed thestatistics of CRCC as well as those of other main-line

denominations.Through much discussion, we began to focus our thoughts

in specific areas. Our love for God’s church was, without doubt,passionate. We also discovered we would need to change – andchange is hard.

Over the winter months a series of focus groups were held

at various times. Most of you attended, sharing your persona

insights and thoughts. The small group of facilitators collectedand compiled the data and found the attendees’ feedback was

quite similar to the responses of the leadership in November.Some “tweaks” to worship began and these seemed to be

accepted. However, the concerns for continuing two separateworship services remained. We knew that logic and emotion do

not always follow the same path. We all would prefer to remainin our personal comfort zones. Change is hard.

Discussions took place over the summer and in August,the Worship Team voted to continue the 8 o’clock outdoor

service from May through September. The 10:30 service wouldbe moved to 10 o’clock year around – not moving to 9:30 during

the summer months. There would no longer be an early servicethroughout the other 7 months. Sunday School would begin at

9 AM. Nursery care would continue to be available during

services and the Sunday school hour. After the Team studied a



long list of Pro’s and Con’s, they all felt the need to worship as one strong community wasparamount to the future of our church. The recommendation to change our worship schedule

was made unanimously. They recognized that not everyone would initially embrace this

proposal – change is hard.In the days following this proposal, I made a personal effort to contact as many church

members as possible. Each person’s reaction was different – truly reflective of the individual’shistory and faith. On August 17, the Worship Team recommendations were presented to

Consistory, your elected representatives. After heartfelt and earnest discussion, theyunanimously passed this proposal. Our new schedule will begin this September. For some,

the change is not difficult but for others it will be a time of great adaptation. I ask everyoneto approach this milestone in CRCC history with compassion, openness, grace, and

understanding. Change is hard – but God’s love for us remains unchangeable. ~ Bruce

Room for All Announces National GatheringRoom for All, an organization of Reformed Church in

America members and pastors working for full inclusion of persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life

and ministry of the RCA, will hold its second national gathering,"Making Room for All 2011," to be held Thursday - Saturday,October 27-29, at Central Reformed Church in Grand Rapids.

The event will feature six workshops, two inspiring and inclusive worship services,a keynote speaker, practical plenary sessions, entertainment and opportunities to

receive support and information.Those who attended the conference in 2009 reported life-changing insights and

new friendships. The event is underwritten by generous grants, making it possible foras many to attend as are able. For further information, go to the Room for All website,

www.roomforall.com. The direct link to the online registration form ishttps://www.regonline.com/makingroomforall2011. Questions may be addressed to

[email protected], or RfA Coordinator Marilyn Paarlberg (201) 364-4538.

MARK YOUR CALENDARSMaggie George

The annual Fall Craft Fair at Community Reformed is scheduledfor October 15 from 9AM to 3PM. We have several new vendors forthis year and a few of some favorites returning. Be sure to invite yourfriends and neighbors to the fair. It is one of the major fund raisers forCRCC.

We also have spaces available if you know of any crafter who

might enjoy participating. They can contact Patti VanKempen at 452-2832 or email her at [email protected].

Ralph and Pat Smaldone are again in charge of the snack bar andare adding sausage and pepper sandwiches to the menu. This meanspeople can eat and shop for their gifts all in one place.

We will also be looking for men and women to assist in the set upon Friday evening, clean up Saturday afternoon, and workers in thekitchen for 2- hour shifts.

Put the date on your calendar and help make this the best Fair ever.

New Worship ScheduleBegins Sunday

September 11th, 18th & 25th

Outdoor Worship – 8 am

Sunday School – 9 am

Sanctuary Worship 10 am

Beginning Sunday

October 2nd

ONE WORSHIP SERVICE

Sunday School – 9 am

Sanctuary Worship – 10 am

http://www.roomforall.com/


https://www.regonline.com/makingroomforall2011


http://c/mc/compose

http://c/mc/compose

mailto:[email protected].




http://c/mc/compose





Youth

NewsSarah Hueist

Sunday, September 11th, will be a very special Sunday for many

individuals in the congregation. During the 10:00 worship service,

children in 3rd grade will have their first Bible handed down to them,

and after a lot of hard work, Billy Birdsall and Justin De Russo will be confirmed. If you have a child entering third grade in

the fall, please see Sarah Huiest to ensure the presentation

of a Bible.

Also on September 11th, Sunday school will hold an orientation and

welcome breakfast for children age 4 through 12th grade and their

families at 9:00. Following breakfast, children will visit with theirteachers, while parents meet with Sarah Huiest and receive an

overview of the year. Registration forms are available in the back of

the sanctuary. ***Please note the date correction from last

month’s newsletter.***

On Sunday, September 18th, all youth workers will be

commissioned; this includes Nursery workers, Children’s Worshipleaders, Sunday school teachers, Youth Group leaders, and those

who provide the Children’s Message. This will also mark the first

official day of Sunday school. Sunday school will meet from 9:00-

9:50. If you have any questions about any of the youth programs or

are interested in volunteering your time and talents, please see Sarah

Huiest or Lisa McGee.



Save the Date for CRTC'sFall Event

October 3, 2011

CRTC's 2011 Fall Event will take place at Glen Sanders

Mansion, with Silent Auction, hors d'oeuvres, anddinner. This year's keynote speaker is Barbara

Wheeler, Director of the Center for the Study of

Theological Education (CSTE) and former President,

Auburn Seminary; Author and Award-winning

Educator.

Keynote Speaker: Barbara G. Wheeler, Director of

the Center for the Study of Theological Education

(CSTE) and Former President, Auburn Seminary;

Author; and Award-winning Educator.

When: Monday October 3, 2011

6:00pm-9:00pm

Where: Glen Sanders Mansion

1 Glen Avenue

Scotia, NY 12302

Now accepting Sponsorships andSilent Auction items....

Honorary Committee Memberships, Table &

Event Sponsorships available (tables of 8)

Individual Reservations: $50.00 per person

SEE YOU THERE!

Registration Deadline: September 23, 2011

CRTC's Mission is to:

Equip with tools for developing andexpressing faith;

Connect people and resources,creating community; and

Inspire a commitment to reneweddiscipleship and spiritual growth.

Join us!

Sincerely,

Martha ReisnerCapital Region Theological Center

See course info at www.capitalrtc.org

http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=f4d5i6cab&et=1105713093673&s=1267&e=001SVKlAijn4jr8S3UedhDGgm77ne5hbjnL6K3ZjlRIdH50sLQ1yblaOYbiLtiDRm0ZReOSLoOw5sV_HDYwUA9rbpP3g-n0y-5-ONmMTVjfPwOGn9jMMZUyJmikHvG5RwT5JFjjsHQRvIBNrL9yDcT85GciqpQEK1hk









Come away to a deserted place all by

yourselves and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and

they had no leisure even to eat.

~Mark 6:31

R and R Rest and Re-creation in the Spirit

7 PM

September 14This is a time of peaceful renewal of the spirit

through prayer and song.Worship leaders are Rev. Bruce Cornwell, LaurieBonesteel, Shawn Turner, and Dave Bonesteel.

For more information, contact Rev. Cornwell, orVicki Lane

SeptemberPrayer of the Month

Psalm of Praise

Sing for joy in the summerWhen earth is bright and green.

Sing for fun in the winter

When the snow is velveteen.

In spring sing out wuth gustoFor the life to soon unfold –

And sing with zest in autumnFor the woodlands colored gold.

~ Joan Stephen

Interfaith Story Circle of the Tri-City Area Comes to Community Reformed

On Wednesday, October 26, Community Reformed will host theInterfaith Story Circle of the Tri-City Area, from 7:00 – 9:00 PM.

Bruce will act as facilitator for the Story Circle themed ”Gift Wrappings.”

Often, the actual gifts we are given are only a small part of the gift itself. The giverhas wrapped the gift in a journey of creativity, mystery, planning, and love. This part

of the gift is more precious than the gift itself. As receivers, we cherish these true gifts and the stories that we share.

Come to share a story, or come to listen. All are welcome!



September Women’s Conference and Luncheon PlannedLou Ann Connelly

Sometimes women just need to get together to talk, share life’s concerns, offer lessons learned

from life experience, and encourage others or get encouragement.

On Friday evening and Saturday morning, September 23rd

and 24th

, women of the capitaldistrict have an opportunity to enjoy time with other women like themselves, and come awayencouraged and renewed.

The Among Friends Women’s Conference offers women a time to refresh their spirits anddeepen their relationship with God through song, humor, and the sharing of life stories.

Luncheon and Sharing time at CRCC

We invite you to come to the conference.

And we invite you to come together on Saturday directly following the conference for aluncheon and sharing time at the church, beginning at 1:00 PM.

There is no charge for the luncheon; help in defraying the cost is not necessary, but would begratefully accepted.

We welcome you to invite other women who would enjoy time in conversation, too.

In advance, we welcome you and hope you will consider taking this time for yourself.

To purchase conference tickets as at a discounted price of $37.50, and to RSVP for theLuncheon see Kathy Jubert: [email protected]. 281-5155.

Children’s Worship Focuses on Book of Acts Sarah Hueist

Many programs take a hiatus during the summer, but Children’s Worship isn’t one of

them. This summer the children navigated their way through the book of Acts. They

learned about the many Acts of the Apostles as they spread Jesus’ Good News and

helped so many people find their way to Christ.

A very special “Thank you” is well deserved by Missy Ebli, Melody York, Sarah Van

Buren, Marissa Ebli, Joyce Karl, Debi Todd, Sue Bredice, and Tina Bottini. These

women gave of their time and talents to help enrich the lives of the children at CRCC.

mailto:[email protected]






Small Groups Enrich Spiritual Life of Community ReformedKaren Reynolds

Community Reformed’s many small groups provide opportunities for you to enjoyfellowship, offer service to others and enrich your study of the Bible.

Each interest group is open to new participants. They invite and encourage you to jointhem. Anyone is welcome. Come and bring a friend.

Adult Sunday School will meet each Sunday at 9:00 am starting September 18, 2011.The group studies a variety of topics in short 5 to 7-week units. Past topics haveincluded prayer, Christian money management, a specific books of the Bible, and thelife and role of Abraham in faith history.If you have any questions contact Karen Reynolds 869-2348.

Men’s Group (Mens Ecumenical Scripture Study) meets every Saturday morning forin-depth Bible study. For more information contact Barry Bredice

Women’s Group meets the first Saturday of each month from 10:00am-11:30 am atthe home of Gladys Chamberlain. A car pool leaves the church at 9:30 to go to theChamberlain’s home at 9 Joslin Court in Voorheesville for prayer, fellowship and/orBible or devotional time. The contact people are Gladys Chamberlain and JudyChristensen.

Sew and Reap Quilting Group meets on the second and fourth Mondays of themonth anytime from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. No quilting or sewing experience isnecessary. Many prayer quilts have been made for those in need of being surroundedby prayer. They also hosted a pillowcase party where more than 200 pillowcases weremade and donated to the Children’s Hospital at Albany Med. Contact person is LouAnn Connelly if you have an interest in joining this group or want more information..

Book Group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm. to discuss abook chosen by a group member and read by the group throughout the previousmonth. This group sometimes meets at the church and sometimes at the home of the

leader of that month. Contact person is Karen Reynolds 869-2348.

Shirley’s Shawls is a group for those who like to knit or crochet or those who wouldlike to learn to knit or crochet. They meet on the third Thursday of each month in thegathering room of the church. They have made several prayer shawls and prayerpocket squares for those in need of being surrounded in prayer. If interested or wouldlike more information contact Linda Murphy.



YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR HELP WITH YOUR HEATING BILL!

If you have any questions, please contact Sue Bredice

at the Colonie Outreach Center, 218-1030.

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

HEAP is a federally funded program that issues heating benefits to supplement a household’s

annual energy cost. HEAP also offers an emergency benefit for households in a heat or heat

related energy emergency. Additionally, HEAP offers a furnace repair and/or replacement

benefit for households with inoperable heating equipment.

You may qualify for this program. Check the chart of qualifications below:

o You and your household members are United States Citizens or qualified aliensand

o Your household’s gross monthly income is at or below the current income guidesfor your household size as posted in the table below or

o You receive Food Stamps oro You receive Temporary Assistance oro You receive Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone)

Household Size Maximum Gross Monthly Income 1 $2,129 2 $2,784 3 $3,439 4 $4,094 5 $4,749 6 $5,404 7 $5,527



September Birthdays

Moira Becker

Cheryl Brooks

Jim ColbertAnthony De Russo, Jr.

Ardelle Mathews

COMPUTER SKILLS WANTEDThe church is seeking someonewith computer design skills to

do layout and page design forthe monthly newsletter. Pleasecontact Lou Ann Connelly orBruce Cornwell if you areinterested in helping, or if youknow of someone who can. LouAnn can be reached at 345-3745or [email protected].

Bruce is available through the

church office at 869-5589.

Thank You

to the Work Group that went to Schoharie onSeptember 5th:Shawn Bredice

Sue BrediceBruce Cornwell

Sandy CornwellMaggie GeorgeJoanne Gulum

Vicki LanePat Smaldone

And to the many, many, many people whobaked cookies and brownies for the volunteers

and residents of Schoharie



Cross & Comments - September 2011

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