Madison Avenue Church of the Brethren
645 Madison Avenue, York, PAÂ 17404
Phone:Â 854-1885
The Lamplighter
September 2009
Editor:Â Lillian Geltz
From the Pastor’s Desk
Ever watched a water bug? You know, those little bugs that skate across the top of the water? They are truly amazing. They have long legs that splay out, supporting the weight of the insect’s long skinny body. The bugs never get wet; they simply skate back and forth, constantly searching for whatever it is that they’re looking for! Water bugs don’t live in the water; they live on it. Their world is the shimmering, glassy surface. Beneath them are the depths – of which they likely have absolutely no awareness.
In the helter-skelter of our lives we are much like water bugs. We race to and fro, busy with one thing, then another – oblivious much of the time to the deeper dimensions of life around us. We spend so much of our time gliding along the surface. Seldom do we plumb the depths.
Perhaps the message of this year’s District Conference might have special meaning for many of us. “Be still and know that I am God….†is a phrase we need to hear – and take to heart. There are so many of us just coasting along in our spiritual life, attending Worship when we have time, but never really plumbing the depths of God’s Word and His message and love for us. ‘O what peace we often forfeit’ the hymn writer has written for us years ago.
Is it time for you to slow down – be still – spend some time with God, and devote yourself to sincere spiritual growth and maturity?
Annual Conference Report
The 300th Anniversary of the Brethren was celebrated in Richmond, Virginia between July 12 and16, 2008, at our annual conference. Attendance exceeded last year’s conference, and the theme this year was “Surrendered to God, Transformed in Christ, Empowered by the Spirit,â€
The Unfinished Business included the implementation of the new denominational structure, merging the General Board and the Association of Brethren Caregivers into one incorporated legal entity, now “The Church of the Brethren, Inc.â€
The New Business included: (1) Update to Ministerial Ethics that permits retired pastors to assist in their former congregations at the request of the current pastor. There was also extensive discussion on allowing anonymous complaints of ministerial misconduct. It is permitted initially, names will be needed to go further in the investigation, but will be kept confidential. (2) Recommendations were made for congregations to provide ministers with medical insurance.
(3) Resolution on slavery in the 21st Century approved. (4) Resolution Urging Forebearance was passed. (5) Query: Conference Witness to Host City was passed. (6) Revision to Unfunded Mandates was passed at the last minutes of the conference completing all business on the agenda.
MACOB was well represented with many congregational members attending the Richmond conference: Ben Grady, Sue and BJ Sparrow, Brenda Linebaugh, Treva Gingerich, Ruth Duncan, Ralph and Gloria Miller, Don Kauffman Jr, (con’t)
Kim Gingerich, Bonita Grady, Brandon Grady, Pastor Godfrey, Megan and Courtney Zellers.
Brenda, Ruth and Kim provided community service to the host city by packing and lifting heavy boxes of food at the local food bank for a day. Their witness supported the query proposed last year.
The Nigerian contingent and mission representatives added an exciting international flavor to the worship services and Insight Sessions.
If you would like specific information on any of the business sessions, or simply review the materials from the conference, they are temporarily stored in my mail slot in the social room at church.
Thank you for the opportunity to represent you as a delegate to the 2008 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren. It was an honor to have your trust and support.
Annual Conference Report 2008
Carol Kauffman, Delegate
Christian Education News
The new Fall quarter of Sunday School lessons starts Sept.7th. The International Lessons class will be studying a series of lessons titled “The New Testament Community†focusing on the core values of the Christian community, the work and ministry of the community, and the struggles (which probably haven’t changed much) the early Church experienced in being the Community of faith. The Discussion class continues its examination and discussion centering on the 300th anniversary meditation book. There is a class for elementary students, the Junior High and Youth classes are combining for the fall quarter and the Young Adult class continues to meet in the Library under the leadership of Ralph Miller.
There are also numerous Bible study options available for everyone: There are groups for women, day time groups, evening groups, some that concentrate more on prayer, and all studying different Biblical topics and books. New ideas are always welcomed for a new study or fellowship group, so please speak to Christian Ed about the formation of new groups.
District Conference
The weekend of September 19 & 20 (Fri & Sat) will see District Conference convene at the York First Church of the Brethren, beginning with registration from 8:30 to 9:30 AM Friday morning. The theme of this year’s Conference is “Be still and know that I am God…,†taken from Psalm 46:10 (with references to Habakkuk 2:1, 20 and Isaiah 40:31). In our hectic, fast-paced world of today, perhaps this is a message we really to hear. Too many of us are so busy we fail to take seriously our need for taking some time to just slow down and spend some time alone with God. What a wonderfully refreshing time of growth and peace that time can be for us! The business sessions begin Friday at 9:30 AM and conclude at 5:30 PM. Opportunity to attend one of eight interesting insight sessions are a part of the Friday afternoon activities. The evening Worship service begins at 7 PM with a special musical introduction, with Worship beginning at 7:20; Charles Illyes, Pastor at the Midway COB (formerly of the New Fairview congregation), will be the Worship speaker. The licensing of ministers – a part of each District Conference -will be a part of the evening Worship time. And….there will be a pie and ice cream social after Worship! Is that Brethren or what? (continued)
The Conference continues Saturday morning with registration beginning at 8:00 and the opening business sessions will begin at 9:00. Interspersed throughout the day’s business will be ‘messages from the prophet Habakkuk’ delivered by Moderator Horst! Elections, more insight sessions, and reports of the different mission works of our District will fill the day with information and numerous worship times. The meeting is scheduled to close about 3:30 PM. Everyone is encouraged to attend and be a part of the opportunities for Worship, information, and spiritual formation. Conference is an excellent time to actually hear and see the various and vital ministries that your District monies support. See brochures on the table in the Fellowship Hall (or check with the Pastor) for more information on registration and time schedule, etc.
One way you can be a part of Conference this year is to volunteer some time to help staff the Hospitality Room. Each year at Conference, a room is set aside for attendees to rest, receive information, grab a snack, or just chat for a while. Our congregation is responsible for supplying the snacks and beverages and maintaining the Hospitality Room during the day on Friday. Your help for an hour or two would be greatly appreciated.
Choir Rehearsals to Resume – Thursday, 9/04/08
Our summer break has gone by quickly, and it’s time to return to our regular weekly schedule for rehearsals. We are looking forward to another great season of singing and fellowship. If you have a talent and/or desire to sing, we encourage you to join us and share your talents. We’ve lots of new songs to learn and share in Worship. Everyone is welcome, and we are especially looking for some new voices and a great time of sharing God’s gift of music in Worship. The Bell Choir will practice at 6:30 PM each Thursday and the Adult Choir will practice at 7:30 PM. New bell ringers are also encouraged to join us and try out that unique style of music.
PS: The Praise Team continues to practice at 7 PM on Wednesdays. Newcomers welcome here, too.
CHURCH BOARD REPORT
The Evangelism committee has plans for a Fall Festival on October 4th with a International Market Place, flea market and events with apples and pies.
Another heifer has been purchased with many thanks for the assistance of Phil Kissinger in the actual search and purchase.
No responses were reported from the thirty letters that were sent to agencies who often have vehicles available for donation or reasonable cost. A more active pursuit will continue for acquisition of a vehicle that will suit the needs for the congregation’s activities.
Stewardship & Finance has transferred our insurance to the Glatfelter Group for a savings of approximately $800. Also, a result of the furnace inspection, we are investigating alternatives, which could include a new heating system. Initial savings from this appear fruitful; however, further investigation in this effort is required. Your prayers for this issue will be appreciated. New curtains for the fellowship hall were installed. Instructions for proper opening was noted. The slats need to be perpendicular to the windows before they are opened to prevent damage!
A meeting on the possible restructuring of the Board will be on the agenda very soon. Pastor Godfrey has been in contact with the district on setting this date.
Preparation for budget was a busy part of the commission meetings with a request to all commissions to have their budget proposals to Dick Rishel by the September Board Meeting.
Ministry and Worship held a meeting to prepare a job description for a Youth Pastor. See Dave Wolfe for an outline of the results from this if you are interested. The search for someone with a desire to serve with Christian dedication will continue with a request for help from the District. If you know someone whio would be good for this position, notify Dave Wolfe or a Ministry & Worship Commission member
Brandon Grady was recommended to the District for ordination. This will require further recommendation for ordination by a vote from the congregation at the October council meeting. Be sure to share your congratulations to him as he pursues a life dedicated to our Lord. Watch for the upcoming information on his pursuit of a Church pastorate position.
It appears that we have finally convinced Pastor Godfrey to take a much needed sabbatical sometime next year. More on this over the next months.
A reminder that choir practice will begin Sept. 4th was presented. Another reminder is for District Conference September 19 & 20 at First Church. MACOB will be responsible for hospitality on Friday. See Kim Gingerich, Dave Wolfe or me if you may be available for this opportunity for service for our Lord.
Remember to always pray for your Board to continue to pursue their duties with a desire to do the Lord’s will by following His guidance.
Next meeting will be September 9th.
Board Chair,
Dennis Strawbridge
To Think About
It’s not what men eat but what they digest that makes them strong; not what we gain but what we save that makes us rich; not what we read but what we remember that makes us learned; not what we preach but what we practice that makes us Christians.                                     Frances Bacon
Bible Challenge Questions
1. What did God use to part the waters of the Red Sea so the Israelites could cross on dry ground?
2. To whom was it said: “The last will be first and the first will be last�
3. Who asked Jesus where he got his authority to teach as he did?
Important Dates: Mark Your Calendar!
Some upcoming important dates to remember are as follows:
• September 19, 20    District Conference – York 1st COB
• September 26, 27     Disaster Relief Auction – Lebanon Fairgrounds
• October 18th        Camp Eder’s Fall Festival (8AM – 4PM)
Answers to Bible Challenge questions:
1. a strong east wind (Exo. 14;21)     2. The workers in the vineyard parable (Matt. 20:16)
3. the elders (religious leaders of the Jews)Â Matt. 21:23
Women’s Fellowship News
September 2      Meeting/Prayer Group       9:00 AM
September 9      Picnic at Pinchot Park      10:00 AM
September 22      Brethren Home Volunteer Day  9:00 AM
The Bermudian and Lakeview ladies will join us for our annual Pinchot Park Picnic on September 9th at 10 AM. Please bring a covered dish to share and a wrapped White-elephant item. Be at the park by 10 AM and guests at 11 AM. Join the fun!
There will be sign-up sheets in September to order Chicken Corn Soup. Pick-up will be after 1 PM on October 24th.
Author Unknown
Lord, I’ve never moved a mountain –       You have always been my helper –
And I guess I never will;                      To restore life’s troubled sea;
All the faith that I could muster –           And to move these little mountains -
Wouldn’t move a small ant hill.              That have looked so big to me.
Yet, I’ll tell you, Lord –                        No, I’ll never move a mountain -
What a privilege knowing Thee;Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â For my faith is far too small;
And for all the mountain moving –          Yet I thank you, Lord of Heaven -
Down through life you’ve done for me.      You have always heard my call.
When I needed grace to lift me –           And as long as there are mountains –
From the depths of deep despair;           In my life I’ll have no fear;
And when burdens, pain and sorrow –       For the mountain-moving Jesus -
Have been more than I could bear.         He shall make them disappear..
Missions & Service
Don’t forget to purchase tickets for the upcoming Fall Banquet to support the Carlisle Truck Stop Chaplain Ministry taking place on October 4th at New Fairview COB, an easy drive! Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12. Included are a full-course beef dinner, silent auction, door prizes and entertainment by The Nell Family!
Another way to support Missions & Service! Plan to attend the 4th Annual Brethren Missions Dinner on Saturday, October 25th , 6 p.m. at Carlisle COB. A Family Style Sinner will be served at $12.50 for adults and $6 for children 4 – 12.
R. Jan Thompson, Interim Director of Global Ministries Office, will speak, and an offering benefiting Church of the Brethren Mission Work will be lifted.
See Treva Gingerich for tickets or information for both events.
Church Activity Schedule for September 2008
9/7Â Â Â Â Â 9:00 AMÂ Â Â Â Â Sunday school
10:15 AM     Worship         “Salt & Light†      Matthew 18:15 – 20
9/9   7:30 PM     Church Board meeting   (Commissions – 6:30)
9/14Â Â Â 9:00Â AM Â Â Â Â Sunday school
10:15 AM     Worship        “Slavery to Freedom†      Exodus 14:19 – 31
9/18   6:30 PM     Bell Choir practice (weekly)
7:30 PM     Senior Choir practice   (weekly)
9/19, 20      District Conference – York 1st Church of the Brethren
9/20   7:30 AM     Men’s Prayer breakfast
9/21Â Â 9:00Â AM Â Â Â Â Sunday school
10:15 AM     Worship         “Counter-intuitive†      Matthew 20:1 – 16
Lamplighter Articles due today
1:00Â PM Â Â Â Â Deacon Meeting
9/28 – 29Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Brethren Disaster Relief Auction at Lebanon Area Fairgrounds
9/30Â Â Â 9:00Â AM Â Â Â Sunday School
10:15 AM     Worship      “I just prefer the old… â€Â     Matthew 21:23 – 32
Coming in September!
The Annual Brethren Disaster Relief Auction    September 26 & 27  at the Lebanon Fairgrounds
This annual event is an important one that provides fun and food for the attendees as well as assistance and support for those in need.
How can you help? Donations of the following are needed:
Baked goods      Farmer’s Market items      Quilts      Theme Baskets
Share-a-meal meals   Your time at stands
Also, MACOB is once again sponsoring a heifer. Please donate to this worthy endeavor to help others. For more information, pick up one of the informative brochures or contact Treva Gingerich.
Correction!    The Morthlands   Phone. 717.848.9515
Oops! Belated birthday wishes to Jim Bohn whose August 17th birthday was omitted last month.
September Birthdays
2   Phyllis Linebaugh      17   Jerry Reynold      27   Portia Ritchey
6   Karen Timpona               Alannah Lentz         Lynn Pettit
7   Bryon Koskela          23   Wendy Decker     28   Kelly Spangler
9   Phil Kissinger          24   Layne Keeny
11   Cathy Berger         26   Melissa Miller
Nicole Doellinger
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