Madison Ave. Church of The Brethren

The Lamplighter

January 2007
From the Pastor’s Desk
Typically, January is a time for new beginnings, new ideas, new resolutions. For many of us who make those famous (or infamous) New Year’s resolutions, experience has shown that they usually last for an average of 17.4 days before we shrug them off and go back to former ways. It’s really unfortunate that
so many good disciplines and activities and ideas are lost so easily.
There are several new things coming for us in January at MACOB. And I pray you’ll be an integral part of them. First, I have been led (with much encouragement) to do a sermon series throughout the four Sundays of January on prayer. There is probably no more vital, yet misunderstood and neglected part of our spiritual life than prayer. At least that’s true for me, and I suspect it’s true for many of you as well. But it’s such an essential part of our faith walk, it demands our attention and the discipline to try to use and understand it better. Perhaps this series will reveal some insights and/or suggestions for your personal growth in the area of prayer. I’m certain it will challenge you and some preconceived ideas you may carry about the whole topic of prayer.

I don’t think there has been a group of sermons that I’ve studied more or harder or longer for than these. It’s been helpful for me and I pray that they will be helpful for you as well. We’ll explore topics such as the following: “The problem with prayer,” “Why pray?” “How to pray” and “What to pray for.”  Please join us each week for this challenging series as we worship together.
The other new activity beginning this month is the formation of new small group study groups. Some are for Bible study, some for application of prayer as well as Bible study. All of them will afford you the opportunity to get to know new people and make new friendships in an open, non-threatening way. The groups really are not designed for religious professionals, but for anyone seeking to know people and God a little better. They are for the beginner, someone new to faith or for anyone just exploring Christianity and looking to learn something about the Bible, prayer, and faith. This is a real opportunity (actually opportunities!) to check out the Bible and its truth and the basics of prayer, while at the same time meeting new friends and having a general fun time. Don’t miss these invitations to grow, both spiritually and relationally.
A First Time Choir Member’s View of the Disaster Relief Auction Concert
by Dave Wolfe
            What an absolutely beautiful Sunday afternoon. The last thing I wanted to do was attend a rehearsal at York First COB for the Disaster Relief Auction concert.  Somehow, Ralph had talked me into joining the mass choir, and once I said yes there was no turning back.  The rehearsal was long and the music we worked on was some of the most challenging arrangements I had ever sung.  I was somewhat relieved that most of the choir members seemed to be struggling with the music also. But when the Auction chairman asked the choir to arrive at the Lebanon Fair Ground at 1 pm to rehearse for the 5:45 pm concert, I thought maybe I would bag the whole concert idea.  Come on, I’d be at church for Praise Team rehearsal about 8 am and arrive home hopefully by 9 or 10 pm.  Let’s get real!  I really need to learn the word NO! 
Well, I was committed or should “be committed” - you can decide.  Right after Sunday morning Worship I hopped into the car and headed for Lebanon.  The day was more beautiful than the First Church rehearsal.  As I drove up Route 83 and across the turnpike, I couldn’t help but think of all the things I’d rather be doing -  almost anything but sitting on steel bleachers trying to sing some really difficult music.  Let me change that - not almost anything - ANYTHING! 
I found my way to the concert hall and was surprised to see at least 2000 chairs setup for the audience.  Wow, these people were serious about having a concert.  The rehearsal started with a strong tenor beside me. The music actually began to sound pretty good.  So, fast forward 3 ½ hours later and the men were finishing our three a cappella selections. The choir and orchestra were treated to a sandwich and typical picnic fixin’s as the audience began to arrive. 
After dinner I stood outside at the front of the arena and watched the people take their seats.  By 5:30 the place was three quarters full, so I went to sit in the choir.  The evening began with a four-song set of traditional hymns with everyone singing.  I don’t care who you are - when almost 2500 people lift their voices in praise, the hair stands up on the back of your neck and goose bumps pop out on your arms.  It was awesome!  The choir’s time was quickly approaching.  We had eight pieces to sing, and wouldn’t you guess, the first two were the most difficult.  I took a deep breath, the conductor brought the choir to its feet, and the orchestra began.  Ya’ know, it sounded really good for three hundred plus voices assembled from all over south central Pennsylvania.  Before I knew it, all 2500 plus were singing the last hymn, “How Great thou Art.”  Closing with this hymn is a standing tradition and is all by itself enough of a reason to attend the next Disaster Relief Auction concert in 2008.  You know all that stuff I said about being anywhere doing anything but singing at the concert? FORGET IT!  FORGET IT! FORGET IT!
I’d rather be singing praises at the Disaster Relief Auction ANYTIME! THANKS RALPH!
New Small Groups Coming…
  By far, one of the best ways to get to know people and learn about our faith at the same time is in a small group setting. Over the past few years, MACOB bas been fortunate to be able to offer many different varied small group studies: prayer groups, Bible studies, Disciple classes, as well as choirs, Sunday school classes and many more.
With the start of the new year, beginning this month, more new opportunities will be available for joining this small group adventure. Two groups focusing on Bible studies, and two groups doing some Bible study with an opportunity to learn and experience more about prayer are being offered. Original time commitment is for 3 months (7 meetings), though they may go longer if the group members so desire. Check out the times and topics on the bulletin board and join at least one new group.
Please note: These groups are designed for everyone, especiallv beginners. They are valuable for everyone, whether you have had some contact with, and/or study of the Bible - or have never read a word of it and are interested in exploring what the Bible is about, what prayer is about, what the Bible means for us today, how prayer can help me grow, and the like. It is for those of us who know next to nothing about the Christian faith and the Bible, as well as those who may want to go a little deeper. It’s a learning, growing experience that is a true blessing for all who participate. Meet new friends and learn more about your faith at the same time. It’s a win/win opportunity that can’t be beat. Join one of the groups now and check it out. It’s an invitation you won’t want to miss.
December General Board Report
 

By far, one of the best ways to get to know people and learn about our faith at the same time is in a small group setting. Over the past few years, MACOB bas been fortunate to be able to offer many different varied small group studies: prayer groups, Bible studies, Disciple classes, as well as choirs, Sunday school classes and many more.With the start of the new year, beginning this month, more new opportunities will be available for joining this small group adventure. Two groups focusing on Bible studies, and two groups doing some Bible study with an opportunity to learn and experience more about prayer are being offered. Original time commitment is for 3 months (7 meetings), though they may go longer if the group members so desire. Check out the times and topics on the bulletin board and join at least one new group.Please note: These groups are designed for everyone, beginners. They are valuable for everyone, whether you have had some contact with, and/or study of the Bible - or have never read a word of it and are interested in exploring what the Bible is about, what prayer is about, what the Bible means for us today, how prayer can help me grow, and the like. It is for those of us who know next to nothing about the Christian faith and the Bible, as well as those who may want to go a little deeper. It’s a learning, growing experience that is a true blessing for all who participate. Meet new friends and learn more about your faith at the same time. It’s a win/win opportunity that can’t be beat. Join one of the groups now and check it out. It’s an invitation you won’t want to miss.The Board met on Tuesday December 12th.  The year of 2006 is quickly coming to an end, yet the work of the church goes on.
The Endowment Fund reported that $ 6811.80 is still available for outreach this year.
The Stewardship and Finance Commission reported that the contract for the Sanctuary air conditioning has been signed and returned to Boyce Heating and Air Conditioning.  The AC installation will begin in January.
Missions and Service Commission reported that $915 had been collected for the Blanket Fund.  A motion made to add $85 from the Endowment Fund was voted on and approved.  This addition made the total donation $1000.
A letter was received from the District Office requesting that Madison Avenue support Brandon Grady’s tuition at Bethany Seminary.  The Board approved the District’s request of $226.44.
The church received an appeal from Camp Eder for financial support.  The Board discussed all the wonderful programs and camping opportunities that Camp Eder provides.  A motion was made to send $1000 from the Endowment Fund.  The motion was approved.
The Board discussed the possibility of supporting the Myers family whose members are seeking support for a missionary trip to Budapest, Hungary.  Individuals from the Myers family spoke to the Sunday school this summer. They continue to seek financial support for their mission trip.  A motion was made to support the Myers for $130 per month or a one time check of $1560 from the Endowment Fund.  The motion was approved.
In His Service to the General Board
Dave Wolfe
Missions & Service
 A big ‘Thank you’ for such great response throughout the last year’s special outreach missions, special offerings for many and varied ministries, and the many times you as a congregation gave over and above the regular offerings in response to a specific need; your love and compassion are especially evident in the many “gifts of the heart’ you have given to help those in need, the many extra offerings for hurricane victims, Blanket Fund, Disaster relief (plus the heifer), the support for CAS and local family needs, and many, many more.
As we look forward to a new year with new opportunities, we ask that you continue to remember our call to mission, with your prayers, support, and financial donations. The spiritual health of any congregation can readily be seen in the extent of the outreach they support. And MACOB has been increasing its outreach giving every year. Let’s continue the good work
Calling all Men!
 

A big ‘Thank you’ for such great response throughout the last year’s special outreach missions, special offerings for many and varied ministries, and the many times you as a congregation gave over and above the regular offerings in response to a specific need; your love and compassion are especially evident in the many “gifts of the heart’ you have given to help those in need, the many extra offerings for hurricane victims, Blanket Fund, Disaster relief (plus the heifer), the support for CAS and local family needs, and many, many more.As we look forward to a new year with new opportunities, we ask that you continue to remember our call to mission, with your prayers, support, and financial donations. The spiritual health of any congregation can readily be seen in the extent of the outreach they support. And MACOB has been increasing its outreach giving every year. Let’s continue the good workDon’t forget our monthly breakfast for all the men of the Church. We meet at 7:30 AM on the third Saturday of each month for a hearty breakfast, good fellowship, and a brief time of meditation and prayer. Be sure to join us, and bring a friend, if you like. We usually finish by 9 AM. This month it’s Saturday, January 20^th.
Christian Education
 The new Commission consists of Becky Rishel (chair), Gloria Miller, and Ruth Duncan. They are open and interested regarding your concerns and suggestions for ongoing classes and learning and spiritual growth opportunities. Please see them with your ideas, and join the exciting Sunday school class of your choice. Also, don’t forget the small group opportunities of Bible Study and Prayer groups.
Perfect Attendance!

      We applaud the following people for having perfect attendance at Sunday School during the fall quarter.  It takes special effort to be there each and every Sunday, and we should all try to follow their example.  For a junior high class member not to miss a week seems particularly admirable, so when you see Eva’s smiling face around the church, be sure to thank her for her faithfulness.
 Eva Vuolo                                       Treva Gingerich                                    Sue Grady                   Elizabeth Kauffman
 Ruth Duncan                                  Don Kauffman, Sr.                    Ben Grady                 Phyllis Becker                                                           
YOUTH

     An evening of snow tubing and a lock-in for junior and senior high youth is being planned.  Since snow is an essential for this event, we will probably have to announce the date on short notice.  Also, the Linebaughs  took five junior high youth to the Youth Conference at the Ocean City in November.
 LOOKING AHEAD

      Believe it or not, it is almost time to start planning for Vacation Bible School.  Some promotional materials have already been received.  Think about keeping room in your schedule to share in the blessings given and received at VBS this summer.
Attention Young Adults!
We are in the process of planning a dinner in January for all who are post- high school age to approximately 40.  The dinner will be a chance to re-connect, catch up on news & discuss ideas. We’d love to see you & share a meal with you. Contact Scott & Brenda Linebaugh or Pastor Godfrey if interested.

The new Commission consists of Becky Rishel (chair), Gloria Miller, and Ruth Duncan. They are open and interested regarding your concerns and suggestions for ongoing classes and learning and spiritual growth opportunities. Please see them with your ideas, and join the exciting Sunday school class of your choice. Also, don’t forget the small group opportunities of Bible Study and Prayer groups.      We applaud the following people for having perfect attendance at Sunday School during the fall quarter.  It takes special effort to be there each and every Sunday, and we should all try to follow their example.  For a junior high class member not to miss a week seems particularly admirable, so when you see Eva’s smiling face around the church, be sure to thank her for her faithfulness. Eva Vuolo                                       Treva Gingerich                                    Sue Grady                   Elizabeth Kauffman Ruth Duncan                                  Don Kauffman, Sr.                    Ben Grady                 Phyllis Becker                                                                An evening of snow tubing and a lock-in for junior and senior high youth is being planned.  Since snow is an essential for this event, we will probably have to announce the date on short notice.  Also, the Linebaughs  took five junior high youth to the Youth Conference at the Ocean City in November.      Believe it or not, it is almost time to start planning for Vacation Bible School.  Some promotional materials have already been received.  Think about keeping room in your schedule to share in the blessings given and received at VBS this summer.We are in the process of planning a dinner in January for all who are post- high school age to approximately 40.  The dinner will be a chance to re-connect, catch up on news & discuss ideas. We’d love to see you & share a meal with you. Contact Scott & Brenda Linebaugh or Pastor Godfrey if interested.Annnal Church Council Meeting