~ ~ ~ Past Events in 2016 ~ ~ ~

 

Christmas Eve with St. Paul’s UCC

Saturday, December 24, 2016

    This Christmas Eve we will once again be offering two evening worship services.  We hope that you will join us for one or both of these services.  There will be some simirities between the two services, but there will be enough differences that if you come to both, you will have two different (and hopefully spiritually enriching) worship experiences.

 

For the Earlier Christmas Eve Worship Service:

    6:30pm - Singers and instrumentalists will begin sharing Christmas music at 6:30pm
    7:00pm - We will begin the liturgy part of the worship service
    ✧    We will be lighting the Christ Candle for the Advent Wreath
    ✧    There will be communion in the pews
    ✧    Pastor Motz will be retelling Luke’s Birth Narrative verbatim
    ✧    There will be a children focused message
    ✧    We will have Christmas carols during worship (different ones from the later service)
    ✧    The Senior Choir will be singing
    ✧    The Handbell Choir will be playing
    ✧    We will be ending the service with candlelight, three verses of “Silent Night”

               followed by “Joy to the World”

 

For the Later Christmas Eve Worship Service:

    11:00pm - The worship service will begin
    ✧    We will be lighting the Christ Candle for the Advent Wreath
    ✧    There will be communion at the chancel rail
    ✧    Pastor Motz will be retelling Luke’s Birth Narrative verbatim
    ✧    There will be two touching Christmas readings
    ✧    We will have Christmas carols during worship (different ones from the earlier service)
    ✧    There will be a soloist
    ✧    We will be ending the service with candlelight, and all six verses of “Silent Night”

                  followed by “Joy to the World”
    ✧    We hope to end the worship service just a little after midnight - Christmas Morning

 

Christmas Sunday Worship - Christmas Legend

Sunday, December 25, 2016 at 9:25am

     We are planning on worshiping at 9:25am on Christmas Sunday.  Pastor Ben will be sharing with us a Christmas legend this Sunday - the Legend of the Robin's Red Breast.

     We will be celebrating in Holy Communion this Sunday.  As always, you do not need to be a member of St. Paul's UCC to share in the sacrament of communion.  We welcome all baptized Christians who profess a belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour to share with us in this sacrament.

     There will be NO Sunday school this Sunday.

 

Children's Christmas Program

Sunday, December 18, 2016 at 10:25am

     The annual Children's Christmas Program is scheduled for Sunday, December 18 for the 10:25am worship service.  For more information, please contact Christian Ed co-chairs Beth Miller and Lisa Randler.

     To view photos from previous years, click on the following links:

          2015 Youth Christmas Program

          2014 Youth Christmas Program

          2013 Youth Christmas Program

 

Wreaths Across America

Saturday, December 17, 2016

     The Wreaths Across America event will be held at the Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery on Saturday, December 17.  This will involve a worship service in rememberance of our fallen military and in support of our military serving away from home over Christmas and their loved ones left at home.  The worship service begins at 12:00noon.  After the worship service we will be placing wreaths on graves and offering individual prayers for the fallen.

     It is recommended that you arrive by 11:00am or earlier for parking and transportation from the parking lot to the cemetery.  You may wish to leave earlier to get better seating.  You do not need to pre-register to attend.

     We may participate in this event as a combined youth group activity.  If so, we will post a meeting place and time to carpool to the cemetery, for those who would be interested in going together as a group.  (Look for updates here in the fall of 2016)

     The motto of Wreaths Across America is to Remember, Honor, and Teach.

Helpful Links:

     For more information, you can click on the following:

          Wreaths Across America 2016 flyer

          WAA - Indiantown Gap National Cemetery Facebook Page

          Facebook Events - WAA - Inidiantown Gap National Cemetery

          Indiantown Gap National Cemetery Memorial Council - Yearly Event Calendar

Previous Years:

     Click on this Wreaths Across America 2015 flyer link to download last year's event flyer.  Click on this Wreaths Across America 2015 photos link for photos from last year's event.  For the 2015 WAA event 9,100 wreaths were placed, and over 2,000 youth participated.

 

Annual Congregational Meeting

Sunday, December 11, 2016 at 11:45am

     Our Annual Congregational Meeting has been called for Sunday, December 11 following the 10:25am worship service.  At this meeting we will be electing the 2017 leadership, and voting on the "2017 Ministry and Mission Program."  The Nominating Committee's report and the Budget Committee's report will be available in the narthex hallway following the worship service on Sunday, December 4.

     For more information, please contact Consistory President Elsa Wertz or Vice President Mike Keffer.

 

Christkindlemarkt and Craft Bazaar

 Saturday, November 19, 2016 from 9:00am - 2:00pm

     The annual Christkindlmarkt and Craft Bazaar will be held on Saturday, November 19 from 9:00am to 2:00pm in the lower level of St. Paul's UCC.  Homemade candy, soup, baked goods, bar-b-que, chow chow and other canned goods will be sold.  There is a basket raffle with many different theme baskets and also gift cards.  Attic Treasures, including Christmas items will also be sold.  There will be juried craft vendors selling handmade items.  Light breakfast items and lunch will be available all day.  Come out and do your Christmas shopping all in one place.  Hope to see you there.

     You can see photos of last year's Christkindlemarkt and learn more about last year's event by clicking on this 2015 Christkindlemarkt Photos link.

     To view pictures from previous years, click on the following links:

           2015 Christkindlemarkt Website Photos

           2015 Christkindlemarkt Facebook Photos

           2014 Christkindlemarkt Website Photos

           2014 Christkindlemarkt Facebook Photos

           2013 Christmas Bazaar Facebook Photos

           2012 Christmas Bazaar Facebook Photos

 

Bible Presentation to Youth

Sunday, November 20, 2016 at 10:25am

     During worship on Sunday, November 20, we will be presenting our confirmation class students with their study Bibles and hymnals.

 

Community Thanksgiving Worship

Sunday, November 20, 2016 at 2:00pm

     You are invited to join us for this inter-faith, ecumenical community service, where a number of churches from the Conrad Weiser School District (including St. Paul's UCC) will gather and give thanks to God for the blessings received this year.

     St. Daniel's ELCA in Robesonia is hosting this year.  The Rev. Edward Essig of St. Frances de Sales Roman Catholic Church in Robesonia will be preaching.

     There will be a combined choir.  Choir rehearsal will be on Sunday, November 20 at 1:00pm at St. Daniel's ELCA.

     Please note: This will be in place of the Community Thanksgiving Eve Worship Service.  We are trying something new this year, to see if a Sunday afternoon works better for our community than a Wednesday evening.

 

Advent Begins

Sunday, November 27, 2016 at 10:25am

     The First Sunday of Advent is November 27, when we will light the first candle on the Advent Wreath.  Come and share in the beginning of this season of anticipation.

 

Poinsettias

Orders Due: Wednesday, November 30, 2016

     To order poinsettias for this Christmas Eve, please return the form by Wednesday, November 30.  We will use the poinsettias to help decorate the sanctuary on Christmas Eve.  You will be able to take your sponsored poinsettia with you that evening (after either worship service) or the following Christmas Sunday.  We will print the sponorships in both Christmas Eve bulletins.

     For a poinsettia order form:

          (1) click on this Poinsettia Order Form link;

          (2) there is one enclosed in the December issue of The Herald (the monthly newsletter);

          (3) forms can be found in the Nov 13, Nov 20, & Nov 27 bulletins; or

          (4) forms can be found on a table in the narthex hallway. 

     For more information, contact the chair of the Decorating Committee or the church office at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.org.

 

Hurricane Matthew

November 13, 2016

     Hurricane Matthew left a humanitarian disaster in its wake in October 2016 as it crossed Haiti and Cuba and continued northward to North Carolina, killing more than 500 and displacing hundreds of thousands.   Your prayers and financial support are still needed for people as they recover.

     Thank you to those who have made donations to support the relief effort through St. Paul's UCC.

     You can click on this Hurricane Matthew Relief Effort link to see how your donations have been used so far to help people whose lives were devastated by Hurricane Matthew, to whom you are providing hope and practical assistance, as the Body of Christ.

      To help provide assistance, you can make a donation payable to "St. Paul's UCC" designated as "Hurricane Matthew Relief Aid" to St. Paul's UCC; 301 West Penn Ave; Robesonia, PA 19551.  You can also make a secure online donation by clicking on this Online Giving link, enter the amount of your gift in the "Special Mission" line, and type "Hurricane Matthew Relief Aid" in the line next to the amount. 

     As in all such relief aid efforts, 100% of the donations we receive are forwarded through our UCC Conference to the UCC disaster relief aid; we do not retain (nor does our conference retain) any designated funds for marketing, advertising, administration, or other purposes.  Donating through the UCC is a great way for you to be sure that your funds are fully being used to provide help and assistance, and to do so in a way that also shares the hope and love of God with people in need.

 

PSEC Fall Meeting

Sunday, November 13, 2016 at 2:30pm

     The 2016 Fall Meeting of the Pennsylvania Southeast Conference (PSEC) of the United Church of Christ has been called for Sunday, November 13 with registration beginning at 2:30pm and openning worship beginning at 3:00pm at First United Church of Christ; 151 S Fourth Street; Quakertown, PA 18951.  The theme for the meeting is "Infinite Possibilities."

     All churches within the UCC belong to a UCC conference.  The conference to which St. Paul's UCC belongs is the Pennsylvania Southeat Conference (PSEC), based on our geographic location.

     At the 2016 PSEC Fall Meeting we will do the business of the conference; review the 2017 Budget, review the Habakkuk 2017 General Synod Resolution and receive an update on the search for our new Associate Conference Minister for Congregational Development, while at the same time enjoy fellowship and worship together.

     Click on this 2016 PSEC Fall Meeting Documents link to get more information from our conference's website, including the advance documents.

 

Candy Sale

Orders Due: Wednesday, November 2

Candy Making: Sunday, November 6 thru Wednesday, November 9

Pick Up: Saturday, November 19 & Sunday, November 20

Ordering

     Click on this Candy Order link to download a candy order form. 

     Orders can be placed in the "candy order" basket in the narthex hallway, or can be mailed to "St. Paul's UCC; 301 West Penn Ave; Robesonia, PA 19551" to the attention "Candy Order".

Pick Up

     Candy must be paid when picked up.  You are responsible for orders made.

     Candy may be picked up on Saturday, November 19 from 9:00am-2:00pm at the bazzar or Sunday, November 20 at 11:45am after the worship service.

Volunteer Candy Makers

     Volunteers are needed to help make the candy.  We have four candy making dates:

          Sunday, November 6 at 2:00pm

               We will be mixing and starting the rolling on Sunday

           Monday, November 7 will be start at 9:00am

               On Monday, bring your own lunch - drinks and snacks are available.

           Tuesday, November 8 we will start at 8:00am

               On Tuesday, lunch is provided.

          Wednesday, November 9 we will start at 8:00am

       Anytime you are able to help is appreciated and as always no experience is needed.

Helpful Funds

     The funds raised from this candy sale is used by the 21st Century Women's Group to help support the many ministries of St. Paul's UCC.

More Information

     For information about how to help or how to order, please contact the chairperson of the 21st Century Women's Group Sue Hiester or contact the church office at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.org. 

 

 

New Financial Secretary

November 2016

     Congatulations to Terry Pastor who was elected by Consistory to be the new Financial Secretary beginning November 1, 2016.

 

The 2016 PSEC Fall Youth Event

Faith In Action

Friday, November 11 to Sunday, November 13, 2016

Who

Youth, ages 13-18, of the Pennsylvania Southeast Conference of the UCC.

Focus Scripture

“What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions?  Can that kind of faith save anyone?...  Now someone may argue, ‘Some people have faith; others have good deeds.’  But I say, ‘How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds?  I will show you my faith by my good deeds.’”  – James 2:14-18

Overview of Daily Activities

FRIDAY: Beginning at 5pm - Arrival & Check-in, Dinner, Family Groups, Large Group Activities, Movie, Bonfire

SATURDAY: Breakfast, Morning Watch, Workshops, Lunch, Workshops, Free time, Dinner, Family Groups, Worship, Dance

SUNDAY: Breakfast, Family Groups, Morning Watch, Large Group Activities, Closing worship, Affirmations, Depart - 12:00pm

Location

The Fall Youth Event will take place at South Mountain YMCA Camp in Wernersville.

Cost

Cost is $90.00 per person

More Information

To register or for more information, click on this PSEC 2016 Fall Youth Event link.

 

The Robesonia Jack Frost Parade

Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 3:00pm

     St. Paul's UCC will again be entering a float in the Robesonia Jack Frost Parade.  Our float theme will be "Heros vs Villains."

    This year's float is based on the theme of this fall's Mind, Body, & Spirit program: "Heros vs Villains" from the Bible.  Through the float and our banners, we will be sharing with our community how God and our church helps us defeat the villains in our lives, including helping us to make good choices in our internal battle between the dark and the light.

     Youth and adults are alike are welcome and encouraged to come walk in the parade in a Halloween costume.  Although, you need not go out and make or purchase a special costume, you are especially invited to wear a hero or villain costume.  A hero costume could include: a comic book super hero, a Biblical hero, a real contemporary hero (fire fighter, police officer, EMT, nurse, doctor, etc), or a historic hero.  You are invited to line up at the Conrad Weiser Middle School at 2:00pm.  Pickup will be at Trinity ELCA at the end of the parade (the pickup time will be dependent upon how close to the front or rear of the parade we end up).

     We will be handing out candy during the parade, and as such we are inviting members to donate individually wrapped pieces of candy.

Dates & Times:

   Sunday, October 2 at 9:15am - teen Sunday school class will have an abbreviated Sunday school lesson and then begin designing float

   Sunday, October 16 at 9:15am - take measurements and develop a blue print

   Sunday, October 16 at 6:00pm - meet at Lowe's in Sinking Spring for building supplies

   Saturday, October 22 from 3:00-5:00pm - begin building the float (come in work clothes)

   Sunday, October 23 at 9:15am - work on the float during Sunday school

   Tuesday, October 25 from 4:00-7:00pm - work on the float

   Saturday, October 29 from 1:00-5:00pm - work on the float

   Tuesday, November 1 from 6:00-8:00pm - work on the float

   Thursday, November 3 from 6:00-8:00pm - work on the float

   Saturday, November 5 from 12:00-4:00pm - work on the float

   Sunday, November 6 from 12:00-3:00pm - load the float onto the trailer & make final adjustments

Parade Day:

   Sunday, November 6 at 12:00pm - load the float onto the trailer & set up the special effects

   Sunday, November 6 at 1:00pm - line up begins at Conrad Weiser High School - Division 6

                                                          (make any final adjustments or repairs from transporting)

   Sunday, November 6 by 2:00pm - everyone should be lined up

   Sunday, November 6 at 3:00pm - parade begins at Conrad Weiser Middle School

   Sunday, November 6 at 5:00pm - parade ends at Trinity ELCA in Robesonia

   Sunday, November 6 at 6:00pm - return to St. Paul's UCC to take the float off of the trailer

Parade Pictures 2016:

   You can view pictures from the parade by clicking on the following links:

      Jack Frost Parade - 2016 - (website) - "The Battle Within"

      Jack Frost Parade - 2016 - (facebook) - "The Battle Within"

Pictures from Previous Years:

   You can view pictures from previous years, by clicking on the following links:

     Jack Frost Parade - 2015 - (website) - "Something's Cooking at St. Paul's UCC"

     Jack Frost Parade - 2015 - (facebook) - "Something's Cooking at St. Paul's UCC"

     Jack Frost Parade - 2014 - (website) - "Fishers of Men"

     Jack Frost Parade - 2014 - (facebook) - "Fishers of Men"

     Jack Frost Parade - 2013 - (facebook) - First Year

More Information:

     For more information and/or to help with the construction of the float, please contact any member of the Evangelism Committee, including Chairperson Robin Henning, Geri Gammel, or Mike Keffer.  You can also find more information by clicking on the following link, which will take you to Trinity ELCA in Robesonia's website: This Year's Robesonia Jack Frost Parade.

 

All Saints Sunday

Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 10:25am

    Join us on this day for our annual rememberance and celebration of all the saints of the church, and a special rememberance of the members of St. Paul's UCC who passed away since last year's All Saints' Sunday.

    This year we will prayerfully be remembering....

          Richard C. Kreitz  -  November 2015

          Marjorie C. Freeman  -  December 2015

          Doris A. Henning  -  February 2016

          Kathryn H. Miller -  July 2016

About All Saints Day

    November 1 is All Saints Day, which is celebrated annually on the first Sunday of November.
    The custom of commemorating all of the martyrs of the church on a single day goes back at least to the third century.  Our All Saints Day celebration commemorates not only all the martyrs but all the people of God, living and dead, who form the mystical body of Christ.  Today we like many congregations remember our members who have died during the past year, and we celebrate their entrance into the Church Triumphant.

    All Saints Sunday celebrates the baptized people of God, living and dead, who make up the body of Christ.  With thanksgiving we remember all the faithful departed, especially those most dear to us who have died.  Even in the midst of loss and grief God wipes away the tears from our eyes and makes all things new.

 

Blessing of Hands

 

Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 10:25am

 

    As a part of this fall's Abundant Blessings theme, during worship on Sunday, October 30 there was the opportunity to for individuals to receive a blessing of their hands for the abundant blessings their hands bestow upon others.  For those that were not able to be present this past Sunday, you will be able to share a "Faith Promise to God Card" and have your hands blessed at the end of worship this coming Sunday, November 6 following the postlude.

 

    For more information, please contact Steve Miller, the chair of this fall's Abundant Blessings celebration program.

 

Roast Beef Dinner

 

Saturday, November 5, 2016 from 4:00-7:00pm

 

     For more information about the dinner and how you can help, please contact an officer of the Men's Fellowship Group.

 

 

 

New Financial Secretary and Treasurer

 

October 2016

 

     The Consistory of St. Paul's UCC has unanimously appointed Terry Pastor as the new Financial Secretary and Melissa Lichtenwalner as the new Treasurer.  Their terms begin November 1, 2016.  Our thanks to Kathie Matthew who has faithfully fulfilled both those roles for the past few years.  Her last day in those roles will be October 31, 2016.

 

     For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact Terry or Melissa, or Elsa Wertz (Consistory President) or Mike Keffer (Consistory Vice President).

 

Trick or Treating at St. Paul's

 

Monday, October 31, 2016 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm

 

     Stop by the front of the church building on Halloween night in your Halloween costume and receive a yummy treat (while candy supplies last).  All are welcome.  Trick or Treat Night for Robesonia is Monday, October 31 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

 

     We are inviting members to donate candy in advance for us to hand out.  With the bags of candy, we will be including a small flyer sharing with some of the ministries within our church that might be of interest to young trick or treaters.  We are also looking for persons to help hand out the candy, decorate the front of the church for the evening, and help take down the decorations afterwards.  If you would be interested in helping with any of that, please contact the Evangelism Committee leadership: Robin Henning (chair), Geri Gammel (vice chair), or Mike Keffer.

 

 

 

New Financial Secretary and Treasurer

October 2016

     The Consistory of St. Paul's UCC has unanimously appointed Terry Pastor as the new Financial Secretary and Melissa Lichtenwalner as the new Treasurer.  Their terms begin November 1, 2016.  Our thanks to Kathie Matthew who has faithfully fulfilled both those roles for the past few years.  Her last day in those roles will be October 31, 2016.

     For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact Terry or Melissa, or Elsa Wertz (Consistory President) or Mike Keffer (Consistory Vice President).

 

 

New Covenant Association

Sunday, October 30, 2016 at 3:00pm

     A new "Covenant Association" has been created, which is now the UCC association to which St. Paul's UCC belongs. 

     At the combined annual fall association meetings of the  Heidelberg Association, East Berks Association, Reading Association, and Schuylkill Association at Zion Blue Mountain UCC in Strausstown on Sunday, October 30 at 3:00pm, three of the four associations voted to disband their associaton and merge.  The three newly merged associations include the Heidelberg, East Berks, and Reading Associaitons.  Before the vote, St. Paul's UCC had been a member of the Heidelberg Association.  The vote of the Heidelberg Association churches was unanimous to disband and join the new combined association.  Prior to the Association meeting, the Consistory of St. Paul's UCC met and was unanimously supportive of the merger.

     There was a full sanctuary at Zion's UCC for this historic meeting.  The meeting began with combined worship, and following the voting, we concluded by celebrating our oneness in Christ with Holy Communion.

     For the time being, the name of the new association will be "Covenant Association."  Addressing the name and some of the finer parts of the by-laws will take place at the April 30, 2017 association meeting.  During the transition period, the individual Committees On Ministry of the three parent associations will continue to do their work until that April meeting (in other words the Heidelberg Association's Committee On Ministry will continue to serve as the oversight for the churches and pastors in this area, including St. Paul's UCC).

     Thank you to Melissa Lichtenwalner, Mike Keffer, and Pastor Ben Motz for representing us at this meeting.  Thank you to the combined efforts of all of the association leadership for helping this merger come together.

     Within the UCC, association leadership is comprised of both laity and clergy from local UCC churches.  Please look for information in the future about opportunities to serve in the Covenant Association.

 

 

Heidelberg Association Annual Fall Meeting

 

Sunday, October 30, 2016 at 3:00pm

 

     The annual Heidelberg Association Fall Meeting will be taking place at Zion Blue Mountain UCC in Strausstown on Sunday, October 30 at 3:00pm.  This is the UCC association to which St. Paul's UCC belongs.  The main topic of this meeting will be voting on whether or not to merge the Heidelberg Association with three other associations within our Pennsylvania Southeast Conference.  Those three include: East Berks Association, Reading Association, and Schuylkill Association.  For more information, copies of the advance overview document can be found on a table in the narthex hallway.  You can also contact our delegates: Mike K. and Melissa L.

 

     Click on this Covenant Association link to learn about the outcome of the October 30 meeting.

 

Abundant Blessings - Celebration Luncheon

 

Sunday, October 30, 2016 at 11:45am

 

     In celebration of God's abundant blessings, we will be having a time of food and fellowship on Sunday, October 30 following worship.  Please join us for this celebration luncheon.  There is no fee and there is no need to bring anything; everything will be provided by the Deacons of St. Paul's UCC.

 

     You are invited to RSVP in advance, so that we can be sure to provide an abundance of food for all.  To RSVP, you can contact the church office at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org; click on this RSVP card link; use the RSVP card found in the September and October issues of The Herald; or use the RSVP card found in the October Sunday bulletins.

 

     For more information, please contact chairperson Steve Miller.

 

Reformation Sunday

 

Sunday, October 30, 2016 at 10:25am

 

    Join us on this day for our annual celebration of the Protestant Reformation.

 

Pancake Breakfast

 

 Sunday, October 16, 2016 at 9:00am

 

     There is no cost and no need to bring anything.  For more information please contact Christian Education Chairperson Beth Miller.

 

Special Congregational Meeting

 

Sunday, October 16, 2016 at 11:45am

 

     The Consistory has issued a call for a Special Congregational Meeting for Sunday, October 16 following the 10:25am worship service.  The official announcement and information about the meeting were included in the third quarter statement mailing, which was mailed to all the members of the congregation in the beginning of October.  The announcement was also made during worship on Sunday, October 2.  For more information please contact the Consistory President Elsa Wertz or Vice President Mike Keffer.

 

Mind, Body, & Spirit after school program

 

Begins: Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at 3:30pm

 

      Mind, Body, and Spirit (MB&S), an afternoon after school kids program in cooperation with other local churches and the Conrad Weiser School District, will begin again on October 11, 2016.  This program provides, exercise, music, fellowship and homework help for children in the third and fourth grades. 

 

     If you are intersted in helping, you can contact Elsa Wertz or the church office at 610-621-5770 or e-mail us at office@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org.">office@sprucc.org.  Clearances are neccesary for adults to help this program.

 

     For an overview of the program, please click on this MB&S link.

 

CROP Walk

 

Sunday, October 9, 2016 at 1:30pm

 

      The Crop Walk helps raise funds and awareness for the Reading Food Bank through Church World Service (CWS).

 

     The walk will be at Gring's Mill, and will go from 1:30pm to about 3:30pm.

 

     Dress comfortably for this 1-5 mile walk to help fight hunger.

 

     To join our church's Crop Walk team or to make a donation to our church's team, contact the Missioon Committee leadership: Sue Hiester or Steve Miller.

 

     For general information click on this Reading Berks Crop Walk link.

 

     Click on this CROP Hunger Walk for more information about this annual ecumenical ministry to fight local and global hunger.

 

World Communion Sunday

 

Sunday, October 2, 2016 at 10:25am

 

     Join with us, as we join with Christians throughout the world to share in our common unity with Christ through the breaking of the bread and the pouring of the wine.

 

     Communion will be served in the pews on this Sunday.

 

 

 

 

Harvest Home

 

Sunday, October 2, 2016

 

     Join us on Sunday, October 2 for the celebration of Harvest Home.  You are invited to bring along with you non-perishable food items to be donated to the Conrad Weiser Food Pantry.

 

     If you were unable to bring your donation of food, we will be receiving them from October 2 to November 6.  For more information, please contact any member of the Mission Committee, which includes Sue Hiester and Steve Miller.

 

 

 

 

Third Quarter Giving Statements

 

October 1, 2016

 

     At the end of each quarter (every three months) the Financial Secretary prepares and mails the quarterly giving statements to members for your records.  The end of September marks the end of the third quarter, and as such your giving statement should arrive by the beginning of October.

 

     Please note that your giving statement mailing will also include information about the upcoming Special Congregational Meeting to be held on October 16, 2016. 

 

     If you have any questions about your statement, please contact the current Financial Secretary Kathie Matthew.  After November 1, 2016 questions about the statements should be directed to the new Financial Secretary Terry Pastor. 

 

Combined Youth Group Meeting

 

Sunday, September 25, 2016 at 12:30pm

 

      We are planning a combined youth group meeting for Sunday, September 25 at 12:30pm in the Fellowship Hall of St. Paul's UCC.

 

      This meeting will be for 6th to 12th graders and Christian Education leadership from each of the churches.  The purpose of the meeting will be to give the teens an opportunity to gather together to plan out combined activities for the 2016-2017 school year.  We are hoping to have teens from the following churches participate: St. Paul's UCC (in Robesonia); St. Daniel's ELCA (in Robesonia); Frieden's ELCA; Trinity ELCA (in Wernersville); Trinity UCC (in Rehrersburg); and Zion Blue Mountain UCC (in Strausstown). 

 

     Pizza, chips, and soda will be served.

 

Confirmation Class

 

Sunday, September 18, 2016 at 6:00pm

 

 The confirmation rite is the affirmation of the baptismal vows, where teens affirm that they would indeed like to be a baptized disciple of Jesus Christ.  The confirmation program prepares youth for making the decision to affirm or reject the vows made for them at the time of their baptism (or if they were not previously baptized, to discern whether or not they would now like to become baptized).
    The recommended age to begin the confirmation program is when a youth is beginning 8th grade.  Youth and young adults in 9th grade or older are also very much welcome.  Youth as young as 7th grade are also welcome.
    Our next Confirmation Class Program will begin September 18th in the Upper Room from 6:00 to 7:30 two Sundays a month. Pre-register by Sept. 4th.
    To sign up for the class, please contact the church office at 610-621-5770 or Office@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:Office@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:Office@sprucc.org.">Office@sprucc.org.">Office@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:Office@sprucc.org.">Office@sprucc.org.  For more information, please contact Pastor Ben Motz at 610-621-5770 or PastorMotz@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:PastorMotz@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:PastorMotz@sprucc.org.">PastorMotz@sprucc.org.">PastorMotz@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:PastorMotz@sprucc.org.">PastorMotz@sprucc.org.

 

  Additional information can also be found in the July/August and September issues of The Herald monthly newsletter and by clicking on this Confirmation Class link.

 

Ketchup Sunday

 

Bring Some Green - We’ll Have Some Red

 

Sunday, September 18, 2016 at 10:25 a.m.

 

    While on vacation, you may have accumulated some unused offering envelopes in your packet over the summer months.  On September 18 bring along with you any unused envelopes in your offering envelope packet from January through August, insert some green cash in them, place them in offering plates, and “catch-up” with your offering.  Stick around for food and fellowship after worship, and we will have some red ketchup for on your burger or hotdog, and you can “catch-up” on what everyone’s been up to over the summer.
    If you can’t make it on September 18th bring your envelopes with you the following week, or simply mail them to the following address:
        St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
        attn: Ketchup
        301 West Penn Avenue
        Robesonia, PA 19551

 

Puppet Show- Rally Day

 

Sunday, September 18, 2016

 

   Sunday School at 9:15am

 

   Puppet Show at 10:25am

 

   Picnic and Puppet Making Workshop at 11:45am

 

     With the arrival of September, we return to Sunday School at 9:15am (for both youth and adult) and Worship Service at 10:25am.  Everyone (members and nonmembers) are invited.

 

     We will be celebrating Rally Day on Sunday, September 18 beginning at 9:15am.

 

Rally Day is a time to invite and welcome everyone - members and nonmembers - to another year of Sunday School and Church. This year our theme is:

 

    Live by the Spirit, Be Led by the Spirit

 

If we do, we will enjoy the fruit of the Spirit which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

 

     We are thrilled this year to have Harmony Hill Puppet Theatre performing during the worship service.  The title of the show will be Faith, Hope, and Love.  In the show a Grandfather tells his grandson about his favorite book - the Bible.  Noah, The Prodigal Son, and the Good Samaritan are used to teach about the 3 great virtues - Faith, Hope, and Love.  Please join us for this fun show.

 

     After the worship service we will have a Puppet Workshop for the children.  They will make either a sock puppet or a bandanna hand puppet of their own design.  This is for children in Kindergarten and older.  Our Rally Day events will also include simple games for both the youth and adults, AND a luncheon.  ALL ARE INVITED.

 

Rally Day - Service Project

 

     We will be having a special service project this year that will benefit two important community programs.  We will be collecting cans of food for the Conrad Weiser Food Pantry, and money donations for the Conrad Weiser West’s Weekenders Backpack Program - a program that supplies needy children with food and essentials for the weekend.  Donations will be accepted from now until the end of September.  Please drop them by the church, or contact the church office at 610-621-5770.  Checks should be made payable to St. Paul’s UCC.  Please indicate on the check that it is for C.W. West’s Backpack Program.  We hope you will help us with this community outreach project.

 

Guest Speaker & Prayers on 9/11

 

Sunday, September 11, 2016 at 10:25am

 

    Sunday, September 11, 2016 is the 15th anniversary of 9/11.  During the 10:25am worship service that day, we will have a special guest speaker, Kara Rhoads, who is a survivor of the Twin Towers 9/11 terrorist attack.  At the time she was a special agent from the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives), and will be sharing some of her experiences in New York that day.  She has since retired from the ATF and is now a local substitute teacher.
    During that worship service, we will also have prayers of remembrance and prayers for peace.
    Whether you are able to join us in worship that Sunday or not, we invite you to pause in prayer on 9/11 wherever you might be, as we remember that terrible day, and pray and work towards a better tomorrow for future generations.

 

 

Sunday School & Regular Worship Schedule Resumes

 

Sunday, September 4, 2016

 

     On the first Sunday of September we return to our regular schedule.

 

          9:15am - Sunday school for all ages

 

                            (including two options for study/discussion groups for adults)

 

                                 For samples and more information, click on the following links:

 

                                      Children & Youth Sunday School Program

 

                                      Adult Sunday Morning Study Options

 

        10:25am - Sunday Worship

 

 

 

Coffee & Wi-Fi

Sundays at 9:15am - beginning on September 4

     For those adults who would like to bring their children, but are not interested in an adult class for themselves at this time, and are looking for a way to occupy their time during the Sunday school hour, we will have coffee and tea, free Wi-Fi, and a place for you to be on the first floor near the youth Sunday school class rooms while your child is in Sunday school.  You can use your smart device, read the paper or a book, read the most recent issue of The Wired Word, or chat with other parents.

     Click on this Adult Sunday School Classes link, to learn more about Sunday morning study options for adults.

     Click on this Children and Youth Sunday School Classes link, to learn more about Sunday morning classes for children and youth.

 

 

 

Koala Kare - Wet to Dry Diapers

    As you will see in our upcoming worship schedule, so far we will be baptizing four infants/toddlers this fall.  That added to our current list of infants and toddlers, equals a lot of diapers to change.  To help make our church building more accessible and inviting to these new parents, we are in the process of installing two new items in our bathrooms.  One is a diaper changing table.  The other will be a pair of toddler safety seats.
    The diaper changing table is perhaps self-explanatory.  One will be located in each of the women’s and men’s restrooms, so both father’s and mother’s can share in the blissful joy of changing diapers (for a total of four changing tables).
    The Koala Kare toddler safety seats are fold down seats that will be mounted to the wall.  They have a 3 or 5 point harness strap on them, which enable a parent to safely seat their child and buckle them in, so that parent can use the commode without worrying about their toddler running off or splashing in the commode in the neighboring stall.  When not in use, these seats fold up and out of the way.  We are planning to install two of these seats in each of the bathrooms (for a total of eight seats).
    Our test restroom is the women’s restroom on the first floor.  Before purchasing multiple units, we mounted them first in that restroom, in order to make sure everything mounts the way we hoped it would.  We are now ready to purchase and mount the units in the other three restrooms.
    We need your help to make this possible.  We are estimating that the total cost of all these units will be about $1,000.00.  They will go a long way to helping young families feel more welcome, invited, and comfortable here, and to make our church more user friendly to young parents.  We hope you will help by providing a donation, payable to “St. Paul’s UCC” marked “Changing Stations”.  If donations exceed the cost of the units, the extra funds will be used for nursery supplies (wipes, disposable changing table liners, etc).  Thank you for your generosity, support, and care for our youngest families.
    For more information, please see the 2016 September and October issues of The Herald and/or contact any member of the Property Committee.

 

 

 

Pokémon GO

Welcome to the St. Paul's UCC Pokéstop.

     For those who are not aware, St. Paul's UCC is a Pokéstop for the electronic game Pokémon GO, which is a very popular game that has been downloaded by over 10 million people so far.  If you are not sure what those words might mean or what this game is all about, ask one of our millenials (teens, tweens, and twenties).

     For those stopping by our church building to collect Pokémon, we hope you will come back at other times.  Whether it is to share in a free meal or free children's clothing (offered two thursdays a month), enjoy the car show, join in one or more of the youth group activities, share in Sunday worship or Bible study, participate in prayer, please know you are welcome here.

     "No matter what your favorite Pokémon, or what level you are at in Pokémon GO, you are welcome here."

     {Others may be more familiar with the phrasing, "No matter who you are, or where you are in life's journey, you are welcome here.}

 

Seeking a New Treasurer

 

September 2016

 

     We are currently seeking a new Church Treasurer to begin as of November 1, 2016, with learning and training under the current Treasurer during October.  This is a paid position within the church.  If you are interested in the position, please contact any Elder on Consistory, including the Nominating Committee Chairperson Terry Pastor or Vice Chairperson Georgianna Hildebrand at 610-621-5770 oroffice@sprucc.org.

 

     For more information, please see the October issue of The Herald, or the September bulletins.

 

Blessing of the Backpacks & Prayers for Teachers

 

Sunday, August 28, 2016 at 9:25am

 

     All preschool, school age youth, and college and graduate students are welcome and invited to bring their school backpacks with them to worship on this Sunday for a "blessing of the backpacks," as we send students back to school with our prayers. Visitors, friends, members, and students of all ages are welcome to bring their backpacks and participate in the blessing.

 

     During this worship service we will also have special prayers for students, school teachers, and Sunday school teachers as they begin the new school year.

 

Worship at Knoebels Amusement Park

 

Sunday, August 21, 2016 at 10:30am

 

     We will be gathering for worship at Knoebels Amusement Park in Elysburg, PA at Pavilion Tent #4 on the third Sunday of August at 10:30am. 

 

     Friends, family, visitors are all very welcome to participate.  There is NO park admission fee.  There is NO parking fee.  You need only to pay for ride tickets (for whatever rides you may wish) and any food you may wish to purchase there.

 

     In addition, we are sponsoring youth from Bethany Children's Home to be able to participate, as well.  We will be providing them and their chaperones with ride tickes and lunch at the pavilion.

 

     Summary of Schedule:

 

          10:00am begin to gather at Pavilion Tent #4

 

          10:30am worship at the pavilion

 

          11:00am rides and water park open

 

          12:00noon potluck lunch at Pavilion Tent #4

 

            8:00pm water park closes

 

            9:00pm park closes

 

     To view photos from last year's trip to Knoebels click on this this Knoebels 2015 Photos link, and the for the previous year click on this Knoebels 2014 Photos link.

 

     We will also have a 9:25am worship service in the sanctuary of St. Paul's UCC that Sunday.

 

 

 

Nomination Process Has Begun

August 2016

     The Nominating Committee has begun its work of seeking nominations for church leadership positions for 2017.  Our leadership terms are based on a calendar year, some of which are ending on December 31, 2016.

     Click on this 2016 Leadership Positions Report to see who is filling which position and which positions will be available as of January 1, 2017.  If you are interested in one of the available positions, please contact the Nominating Committee Chairperson Terry Pastor or Vice Chairperson Georgianna Hildebrand at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org.  The Nominating Committee is composed of the Consistory Elders and Pastor.

    For a description of the Committees and Consistory positions (including a description of Deacons, Elders, and Trustees), please click on this St. Paul's UCC Committee Booklet link.

     The slate of nominees will be presented to the congregation for election at the December 2016 Annual Congregational Meeting.

 

 

 

11th Annual Car Show

 

Saturday, August 13, 2016 from 10:00am to 3:00pm

 

    Come for a great time at the 11th annual St. Paul's UCC Car Show.  This event, held rain or shine, includes Antique cars, Classics, Modified , Street Rods, Jalopys' and  more, plus lots of homemade food and baked goods.  Doors Prizes will also be handed out.

 

    Have a car you want to show?  Click on this 2016 Car Entry Registration Form link to register your car for this year's show..

 

    You can view pictures from the 2014 Car Show by clicking on this link: 2014 Car Show Photos.

 

    You can view pictures from 2015 by clicking on this link: 2015 Car Show Photos.

 

UCC National Youth Event

 

July 26 - July 30, 2016

 

Registration for this event is CLOSED

 

     This year's United Church of Christ (UCC) National Youth Event (NYE) will take place at the Coronado Springs Resort Hotel in Lake Buena Vista, FL.  The NYE is for UCC youth ages 13-18 years old.

 

     This event will include:
          + 2-day Hopper All Park Access for all Disney Theme Parks

 

               (including Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios,

 

               & Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park)
          + Disney’s YES (Youth Education Series)
          + Service Projects & Social Justice Outreach
          + Workshops & TIE Experiences (Theological, Interactive and Educational)
          + Free Wi-fi Accessibility (Yep, selfies unlimited!)
          + Local Transportation (including airport, theme park shuttles & transport to service projects.)
          + & more!

 

     Click on this 2016 UCC National Youth Event link to learn more.  For a YouTube video, click on this 2016 NYE Video link.  For facebook links click on: UCC Youth Facebook.

 

     If you are interested in participating, please contact the church office at office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org or 610-621-5770.

 

Vacation Bible School

 

Sunday, July 10 - Thursday, July 14  from 6:00-8:00pm

 

Crystal Cave Field Trip - Friday, July 15  from 9:30am - 1:30pm

 

    This summer we will be participating in a combined Vacation Bible School (VBS) program with St. Daniel’s ELCA.  Mark your calendars now for the evenings of Sunday-Thursday, July 10-14, from 6:00-8:00pm.

 

     On Friday, July 15 we will be taking a field trip to Crystal Cave.  We will be meeting at St. Daniel's ELCA at 9:30am to car pool, touring Crystal Cave at about 10:00am, followed by a picnic lunch and games together, and then returning to St. Daniel's ELCA around 1:30pm.  The cost for Crystal Cave is $10 for adults and $7 for youth.

 

     Visitors are very much welcome.  This is being planned for youth who are 3 years old to 6th grade (older teens are invited to be helpers).  VBS includes games, crafts, prayer, singing, learning about scripture, fun, and laughter.  The evening program is free for members and visitors alike (there is a Crystal Cave admission fee set by Crystal Cave for the Friday field trip).
    This year VBS will be held at St. Daniel’s ELCA, and next summer St. Paul’s UCC will host a combined VBS program.
    We are looking for volunteers to help with the VBS program.  For more information about how you can help and to volunteer, please see the Christian Education chairpersons: Beth Miller or Lisa Randler.  Their contact information is in the monthly newsletter, or you can contact the church office at office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org or 610-621-5770. 

 

     To register, click on this 2016 VBS Registration Form link, print it, fill it out, and return it to Beth Miller or Lisa Randler.  You can also mail the form to: "St. Paul's UCC; Attn: Christian Ed Committee; 301 West Penn Ave; Robesonia, PA 19551."

 

VBS FAQs

 

     Who:  3 year olds to 6th grade

 

     Who:  all youth in our community (you do not need to be a member of St. Paul's or St. Daniel's)

 

     When:  Sunday, July 10 - Thursday, July 14   from  6:00pm-8:00pm

 

     Where:  St. Daniel's ELCA, Robesonia

 

     Cost:  Free

 

     What:  games, crafts, music, snacks, prayer, learning about the Bible, friendship, and fun

 

     Registration Form:  Click on this 2016 VBS Registration Form link.

 

PSEC Summer Camp Programs

 

Summer Day Camp, Overnight Camp, and Mission Camp

 

Early Bird Discount - May 31, 2016

 

     For information about our Pennsylvania Southeast Conference 2016 summer day camp and overnight camps, click on the following links: Summer Camps at New Goshenhoppen UCC Brochure and Summer Camps at New Goshenhoppen UCC Flier.

 

Penn Central Summer Church Camp

 

Summer 2016

 

Early Bird Discount - April 1, 2016

 

    The Hartman Center has general camps for youth of all ages - from getting started through Senior High and specialty camps for sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, and for those who enjoy reading and games.  Camp is not only for children, there are intergenerational and grandparent camps, as well as “Body, Mind, and Spirit” for adults.

 

    The 2016 Hartman Center Summer Church Camp brochures have arrived.  They are available from the church office office@sprucc.org or on the “Visitor Table” in the narthex hallway.  The Hartman Center is Penn Central Conference UCC’s camp, conference, and retreat center.  The early bird deadline for 10% off discounted camp registration is April 1.
    The easiest way to register is by going online to www.HartmanCenter.com and clicking the summer camp button, which is also the best way to get more information.

 

    The Hartman Center is an American Camp Association accredited camp.  It has been a UCC camp since 1964 and is comprised of 192 acres of open and wooded areas, with easy access to nearby streams, hiking trails, and state parks.
    For more information, you can also contact the Rev. Patty Dodds, Penn Central Conference Coordinator of Camps and Retreats at the Hartman Center; 5725 Old US Highway 322; Milroy, PA 170631; 717-667-2431; orprogram@hartmancenter.com.

 

Father's Day

 

Sunday, June 19, 2016 at 9:25am

 

     Join us for worship on Father's Day this June.  We will have a special small gift for all the men who gather for worship.

 

God and Me

 

Sunday, June 19, 2016 at 9:25am

 

     On Sunday, June 19 we will have eight youth in grades 1-3 receiving the God and Me National Religious Award during the worship service. Refreshments to follow.

 

     These youth went through four classes with Pastor Ben Motz, plus finished their workbooks and completed faith activities at home to earn the "God and Me" award, the first of four awards in the Programs of Religious Activities with Youth (P.R.A.Y.).

 

     The first class will be held on Sunday, April 24 at 6:00pm, and the last class will be held on Sunday, June 5 at 6:00pm.
    The P.R.A.Y. program is used as the religious award program for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, American Heritage Girls, and others.  The God & Me program includes Girl Scouts who are Brownies or older Daises and Cub Scouts who are Tigers, Wolves, or Bears.
    However, you do not need to be in scouting to participate in this award program, nor do you need to be a member of St. Paul’s UCC.

 

     You can view pictures from our 2014 award presentation, by clicking on this 2014 P.R.A.Y. Religious Award Presentation Photos link.

 

Community Church Blood Drive

 

Saturday, June 18, 2016 from 8am to 12:00 noon

 

     On Saturday, June 18 the Robesonia Community Church Blood Drive will be hosted by St. Paul's UCC in Robesonia from 8:00am to 12:00 noon.  Please call St. Paul's at 610-621-5770 for information on how to make an appointment.

 

     For more information about this ministry and the scheduled blood drives, you can click on this Robesonia Community Blood Drive link.

 

Blood Drive Schedule for 2016

 

     Tuesday, April 5, 2016 from 2:00pm-7:00pm

 

          at St. Francis de Sales Roman Catholic Church, Robesonia

 

     Saturday, June 18, 2016 from 8:00am-12:00noon

 

          at St. Paul's UCC, Robesonia

 

     Tuesday, September 27, 2016 from 2:00pm-7:00pm (tentative times)

 

          at St. Daniel's ELCA, Robesonia

 

     Thursday, December 8, 2016 from 2:00pm-7:00pm (tentative times)

 

          at Trinity ELCA, Robesonia

 

Hymn Sing

 

Sunday, June 12, 2016 at 10:25am

 

     Come and worship in song for this musical Sunday.   There will be the opportunity for you to request your favority hymn to be sung during the worship service.

 

God and Me

 

Sunday Evenings April to June at 6:00pm

 

Classes: Grades 1-3 this April-June 2016

 

     Pastor Ben is offering the Programs of Religious Activities with Youth (P.R.A.Y.) for grades 1-3 this spring called "God and Me."  The first class will be held on Sunday, April 24 at 6:00pm, and the last class will be held on Sunday, June 5 at 6:00pm.  The celebration Sunday will be Sunday, June 19 during the 9:25am worship service 
    This is a four week course (plus introduction and conclusion).  Each session lasts about an hour to an hour and a half.
    The P.R.A.Y. program is used as the religious award program for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, American Heritage Girls, and others.  The God & Me program includes Girl Scouts who are Brownies or older Daises and Cub Scouts who are Tigers, Wolves, or Bears.
    However, you do not need to be in scouting to participate in this award program, nor do you need to be a member of St. Paul’s UCC.  All interested youth in grades 1-3 are invited.  This is a program of the church, rather than a scouting program.  Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts simply recognize this program as an official way to earn your respective religious scouting awards.

 

     If you are interested in participating in this upcoming God & Me course, please contact the church office at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.org.  You can learn more about the P.R.A.Y. Programs offered here by clicking on this P.R.A.Y. Religious Program link.  You can view pictures from our 2014 award presentation, by clicking on this 2014 P.R.A.Y. Religious Award Presentation Photos link.

 

Healing Service

 

Sunday, May 22, 2016 at 10:25am

 

     During the 10:25 worship service on Sunday, May 22 we will share in a time of Prayers of Healing.  During this time there will be four options in how to participate in the Prayers of Healing, including: (1) the opportunity to be prayed for and annointed with oil; (2) opportunity to light a candle; (3) the opportunity to pray at the chancel rail; and (4) the opportunity to simply remain in your pew.

 

Mulching

 

Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at 6:00pm

 

      For additional information, you can also contact Carl Unger, Vice Chair of the Property Committee.

 

Pentecost

 

Sunday, May 15, 2016 at 10:25am

 

     Join us for this annual celebration of the Birthday of the Christian Church and the imparting of the Holy Spirit.

 

Mother's Day

 

Sunday, May 8, 2016 at 10:25am

 

     Join us for worship on Mother's Day this May.  We will have a special small gift for all the women who gather for worship.

 

Ascension Day

 

Thursday, May 5, 2016 at 6:30pm

 

     The 40th Day after Easter is Ascension Day, when Jesus Christ ascended into heaven.

 

     This Ascension Day we will host a combined evening worship service with St. Daniel's ELCA.  The service will be on Thursday, May 5 at 6:30pm in the sanctuary of St. Paul's UCC.  Refreshments to follow in the Miller Fellowship Hall.

 

Western Berks Free Medical Clinic

 

April 2016 - Cancelled

 

     This educational event was originally scheduled for the youth group for April 2016, but was postponed and is now cancelled.  We planned for this event to provide opportunity for teens from area local churches to learn more about the ministry of the West Berks Free Medical Clinic at St. Daniel's ELCA.  We hope to reschedule this for the 2016-2017 school year.

 

Heidelberg Association Takes Pride in Blue Marsh

 

Saturday, April 16, 2016 at 9:00am

 

Registration - Sunday, April 10

 

     On Saturday, April 16 members of the congregations of the Heidelberg Association of the United Church of Christ will join with hundreds of volunteers from Berks county to help in sprucing up Blue Marsh.  We have chosen this as an extension of our Lenten Meditations “Caring for the Creation,” as well as an extension of our stewardship ecology.  If you are able, please join in and help “Be The Church”.
Who: You, a member of the Heidelberg Association of the UCC (which includes St. Paul's UCC in Robesonia)
What: “Take Pride in Blue Marsh”.  Our task is to work on the Sensory Garden
Where: Dry Brooks Area off of Palisades Drive near the Lake View Pavilion
When: Saturday, April 16th 9AM till noon
What to bring: Wear work clothes and shoes.  Bring work gloves.  We recommend you bring a water bottle, hat, suntan lotion, and bug spray.  It is requested that bring along one or more of the following tools: grass rake, garden rake, shovel, and/or clippers.
Lunch: There will be a light lunch served for all volunteers.

 

 Registration:  Please register by Sunday, April 10, as Blue Marsh is requesting a head count in advance of the project, so that they can better prepare.  You can sign up using the sheet in the narthex hallway or by contacting the church office at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org.

 

 Who to contact: Please contact Sue Hiester of the Mission Committee to sign up or for more information.

 

Helping The World To Change

 

PSEC Spring Youth Event

 

Friday, April 15, 2016 - Sunday, April 17, 2016

 

Registration Deadline - Sunday, April 3

 

      “Show yourself in all respects a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, gravity” – Titus 2:7

 

      The PSEC Spring Youth Event will be held from April 15 to 17 at South Mountain YMCA Camp, 201 Cushion Peak Road in Wernersville, PA 19565 for youth between the ages of 13 to 18. Registration fee of $90 per person includes meals, lodging, events, and activities.  The only additional monies needed would be for the coffee shop which offers a variety of both coffee and non-coffee choices along with some snacks and munchies.  Most of the beverages cost between $3-$5; most snacks are between $.50 to $1. 

 

  Click to download an event overview and the medical release form.  Bring the completed form on April 15.  Do not send the form by e-mail as requested during previous registrations.  Register online by April 3.

 

Girl Scout Sunday

 

Sunday, April 10, 2016 at 10:25am

 

     All those involved in Girl Scouts U.S.A. are invited to wear their uniforms for this annual celebration.  Check with your unit leader to see if she is providing you with a Girl Scout Sunday patch (that varies from year to year and leader to leader).  If not, we are more than happy to present you with one on that day.  To receive the 2016 Girl Scout Sunday patch from St. Paul's UCC, please use the sign up sheet in the narthex hallway or contact the church office by Sunday, March 27 at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org.">office@sprucc.org.

 

     You can see photos from previous previous years, by clicking on the following links: Girl Scout Sunday 2015 and Girl Scout Sunday 2014.

 

Holy Humor Sunday - Come Fishing

 

Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 10:25am

 

    Holy Humor Sunday is an opportunity to let our hair down - way down - with a very upbeat and fun service, following the somber season of Lent.  It is a day of humor and light-hearted fun.  Each year we pick a special fun theme.

 

    This year's Holy Humor theme is "Come Fishing".  You are invited to worship dressed in what you might wear to go fishing.  (If you go fishing at the grocery store, you can wear the casual clothes in which you go shopping).  Any member who would like to help decorate the sanctuary for our fishing theme, please contact the Worship Committee chairperson, Claudette Mettin.

 

    Holy Humor Sunday shares its roots with that of April Fool’s Day.  When Jesus rose from the dead on Easter Sunday, he defeated death, and in doing so the Great Deceiver (i.e. the Devil) was deceived - bested by the best trick ever.  From deceiving the Great Deceiver on Easter, April Fool’s Day came to be celebrated on April 1st, and Holy Humor Sunday came to be most commonly celebrated on the Sunday following Easter Sunday.

 

    Our 2015 theme for Holy Humor Sunday was “From Zeroes to Heroes.”  You can view pictures from that year by clicking on this 2015 Holy Humor Sunday link.

 

    Our 2014 theme was: "A Childlike vs a Childish Faith."  You can view pictures from that year by clicking on this 2014 Holy Humor Sunday link.

 

 

 

 

Ham and Dandelion Dinner

 

Saturday, April 2, 2016 from 11am to 2pm

 

      The Men's Fellowship Group is having a Ham and Dandelion Dinner on Saturday, April 2 from 11am to 2pm in the Fellowship Hall.  Adults are $10.00 and Children 6-12 are $4.00.   Helpers and baked goods are needed.  Please contact Mike Keffer for information.

 

     Click on this 2015 Ham & Dandelion Dinner Photos link to see pictures from last year's dinner.

 

Interdenominational Party for Confirmation Students

 

Sunday, May 1, 2016 - cancelled

 

     We were tentatively planning a party for confirmation students from St. Paul's UCC, St. Daniel's ELCA, Trinity UCC, Salem ELCA, and Host Reformed.  Unfortunately, due to too many scheduling conflicts that weekend from amongst those churches, the party has been cancelled.

 

Soup & Such - & - St. Paul's Clothing Closet

 

Thursday, March 31, 2016

 

     Twice a month, St. Paul's UCC offers "Soup & Such" and the "St. Paul's Clothing Closet."

 

     Soup & Such is a free meal for all served from 4:00-6:00pm.

 

          (Volunteers are welcome to come and help prepare and set up at 2:00pm).

 

     St. Paul's Clothing Closet offers a free bag of gently used children's clothing from 3:30-6:00pm.

 

More Information

 

     You can click on this Soup & Such link for more information and for this year's schedule, or contact coordinator Claudette Mettin.

 

     You can click on this St. Paul's Clothing Closet for more information, or contact coordinator Robin Henning.

 

Easter Sunday

 

Sunday, March 27, 2016 at 6:45am & 10:25am

 

      We will be having two Easter services. The first will be a Sunrise Worship Service, starting at 6:45am.  We will start outside with vigil candles gathered around a fire.  We will then process into the church with the Paschal Candle and bring the light in with us.  The worship service will include communion and a sermon.

 

     The second service will be at 10:25am.  The service will include communion, choir anthem, sermon, and children's sermon.  Communion will be served in the pews.

 

     Alleluia, He is risen!

 

Maundy Thursday - Service of Tenebrae

 

Service of Shadows

 

Thursday, March 24, 2016 at 6:30pm

 

     On Maundy Thursday Jesus gathered with the disciples for the Feast of Passover.  They shared in a meal.  He took bread, blessed it and broke it, and instituted the Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion).  He then took his disciples to a garden to pray, where he was betrayed and crucified.
     On Thursday, March 24 at 6:30pm, we will begin worship in the Fellowship Hall at table with one another.  We will have a light meal and communion.  Then we will process to the sanctuary for Tenebrae - the service of shadows - where we will pray, hear the last words of Christ, and strip the altar in preparation of his crucifixion.
     We hope you will join us for this meaningfully spiritual service.

 

     The meal is provided by the church; there is no charge for the meal, and there is no need to bring any food along with you.  As always, visitors, friends, and members are all equally welcome.

 

     (Please note, with having Tenebrae included in our Maundy Thursday worship service, we will not be having a separate Good Friday worship service). 

 

Palm Sunday

 

Sunday, March 20, 2016 at 10:25am

 

    Join us for worship for this annual celebration of Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of Holy Week.  We will have a "Blessing of the Palms" and palm branches for everyone to take home with them.

 

Easter Egg Hunt

 

Sunday, March 20, 2016 at 11:45am

 

     The Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held Palm Sunday, March 20 at 11:45am, following the 10:25am Palm Sunday worship service.  Children from 0 - 12 years old are welcome to participate in the egg hunt.  Older children are needed to help hide the eggs.  This event is rain or shine.  Visitors and friends are very welcome (you do not need to be a member of St. Paul's UCC to participate).

 

     Donations of colored hard boiled eggs, candy, or money are welcome.  For more information or to volunteer to help, please see chairpersons Beth Miller or Lisa Randler, or any member of Christian Education.

 

     Check out the photos from previous years, by clicking on the following links: Easter Egg Hunt 2015 Photos; Easter Egg Hunt 2014 Photos; and Easter Egg Hunt 2013 Photos.

 

A Charlie Brown Bible Study

 

The Gospel According to Peanuts

 

Wednesdays 2016 at 6:30pm from February 17 to March 16

 

     The year 2015 marked the 50th anniversary of the Charlie Brown Christmas Special and the 65th anniversary of the Peanuts comic strip.  During lent this year we will have a book study on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm in the Upper Room (the upstairs conference room), which will go from Wednesday, February 17 to Wednesday, March 16, based on Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and all their friends.  
    The study will be on the best selling book, The Gospel According to Peanuts, which has sold over 10 million copies.  We will have gently used books available, which you can borrow for free or purchase for $6.00.  We have a limited number of available books, to reserve yours ahead of time, contact the church office at office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org or 610-621-5770.  You can also of course purchase a new or used book on your own, and bring that with you.
    This study is open to everyone in our community - all are welcome.  You are invited to come dressed casually for this series.
    Youth are welcome to participate in the book study, but we expect younger youth will prefer an alternative.  As such, we will have a faith based children’s Charlie Brown & Snoopy videos playing in a separate area, which we hope will be enjoyable, meaningful, and fun for children and youth.
    The sermon theme for Ash Wednesday will be taken from one of the chapters of The Gospel According to Peanuts, which we hope will help link Ash Wednesday with the rest of our Lenten evenings.  We hope you will share in this opportunity to grow in faith through one of the most beloved comic strips of all times.

 

     The themes will include:

 

          Chapter 1. The Church and the Arts  -  Wednesday, February 17

 

          Chapter 2. "The Whole Trouble": Original Sin  -  Ash Wednesday, February 10

 

          Chapter 3. The Wages of Sin is "Aaaughh!"  -  Wednesday, February 24

 

          Chapter 4. Good Grief!  -  Wednesday, March 2

 

          Chapter 5. The Hound of Heaven  -  Wednesday, March 9

 

          Chapter 6. Conclusion  -  Wednesday, March 16

 

    For additional information, please contact Claudette Mettin, chair of the Worship Committee, or contact the Pastor.

 

Soup & Such - & - St. Paul's Clothing Closet

 

Thursday, March 10, 2016

 

     Twice a month, St. Paul's UCC offers "Soup & Such" and the "St. Paul's Clothing Closet."

 

     Soup & Such is a free meal for all served from 4:00-6:00pm.

 

          (Volunteers are welcome to come and help prepare and set up at 2:00pm).

 

     St. Paul's Clothing Closet offers a free bag of gently used children's clothing from 3:30-6:00pm.

 

More Information

 

     You can click on this Soup & Such link for more information and for this year's schedule, or contact coordinator Claudette Mettin.

 

     You can click on this St. Paul's Clothing Closet for more information, or contact coordinator Robin Henning.

 

Girl Scout Sunday

 

March or April 2016 - TBD

 

     We have not yet scheduled our annual Girl Scout Sunday worship service.  When the service is scheduled, we will post it here.  Please check back here for updates.

 

     You can see photos from previous previous years, by clicking on the following links: Girl Scout Sunday 2015 and Girl Scout Sunday 2014.

 

Easter Candy Orders

 

Due: Wednesday, March 9, 2016

 

     Information coming soon....

 

     You can click on this Easter Candy Order Sheet for a copy of the order form.

 

Easter Flowers Orders

 

Due: Sunday, March 13, 2016

 

     Information coming soon....

 

     You can click on this Easter Flowers Order Sheet for a copy of the order form.

 

Interdenominational Confirmation Retreat

 

Friday-Sunday, March 11-13, 2016

 

     There will be the opportunity for confirmation students from St. Paul's UCC, St. Daniel's ELCA, Trinity UCC, Salem ELCA, and Host Reformed to participate in a combined Confirmation Retreat weekend at Bear Creek Camp.

 

     Look here for more details as March approaches.

 

One Great Hour of Sharing

 

Sunday, March 6, 2016

 

    One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS), is the annual special mission offering of the United Church of Christ that carries God’s message of love and hope to people in more than eighty countries.  The UCC works with international partners to provide sources of clean water and food, education and health care, small business micro-credit, emergency relief, and advocacy and resettlement for refugees and displaced persons.  OGHS also supports domestic and international ministries for disaster preparedness and response.
    You can read more about OGHS on the UCC Mission Outreach page of our website, by clicking on this OGHS link.
    Please prayerfully consider contributing to this critical UCC relief ministry during this Lenten season.  You may use the special OGHS envelope enclosed in the March issue of The Herald or March 6 bulletin, or make contributions payable to “St. Paul’s UCC” marked “OGHS”.

 

Are You ن ?

 

Sunday, February 28, 2016 at 10:25am

 

     Join us on Sunday, February 28 during the 10:25am worship service and learn what this symbol is and what it has to do with martyrs, Christians, and ISIS.

 

     Find out more, by clicking on this Nasara link.

 

 

I Am .  Are You Nasara?

February & March 2016

     In February and March of 2016, you may have seen the unfamiliar mark pictured here on the church doors and on various walls within the church building.  The symbol is the Arabic letter  in red, which is the letter “n” in English.  The posting of this symbol and the wearing of it on t-shirts and jewelry symbolizes our solidarity and support of the Christian martyrs and refugees, particularly those dispersed from the ISIS invasion of northern Iraq.  Sometimes you will see the Arabic letter  with the English "n" in shadow under it, as is pictured here.

     We invite you to keep in prayer all of the refugees from ISIS violence in your prayers, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or nationality.  We especially invite your prayers for the Syrian refugees, as they number 4.6 million at the time of the writing of this article.

History of 

     Beginning in June 2014, ISIS extremists overran the city of Mosul in northern Iraq, which is located near the Syrian and Turkey borders.  In the Old Testament the name of this city was Nineveh (talked about throughout the Book of Jonah, as well as referred to in Genesis 10; 2 Kings 19; Isaiah 37; Nahum 1-3; Zephaniah 2; Matthew 12; and Luke 11).  Christians have lived in this region for centuries.
     Members of ISIS went from house to house identifying the homes of Christians.  When they identified a Christian home, they marked the house with the Arabic letter  in red spray paint.  That Arabic letter is “n” in English, and stands for the word “Nasara.”  Nasara is based on the word “Nazareth.”  Nasara is a term used by ISIS in northern Iraq to identify Christians as “followers of Jesus of Nazareth.”
     After marking the homes, a few days later armed ISIS soldiers came to the homes with the red , and gave the Christian families an ultimatum: convert to Islam, pay an exorbitant tax to ISIS, leave, or die.
     Many were killed.  More than 100,000 Christians refused to deny Christ and left everything behind, fled with little more than the clothing on their backs, seeking asylum in Syria and Turkey, and have now become refugees.
     In solidarity and support of these, our sisters and brothers in the Christian faith, Christians around the world began displaying the red Arabic letter , seeking to convert this symbol of exile and death into a positive symbol of hope, courage, and of our Christian oneness as Narasa - followers of Jesus of Nazareth.

Sermon on

     The pastor preached on this symbol on February 28, 2016.  His sermon was entitled, "I Am .  Are You Nasara?"

     The text for the day was Luke 13:1-9, where Jesus was questioned about two terrible tragedies in Jerusalem, each of which resulted in the loss of many lives.  One was at the hands of Pontius Pilate's troops, and the other from a natural disaster.  In his sermon, the pastor discussed the "theodicy question," which is, "If God is all powerful, and if God is all loving, why does suffering exist?"  It is a question that we all ask at different times in our lives, whether it be due to something of the magnitude of the Syrian Refugee Crisis, or whether it be in the more personal ways we all at times experience loss, pain, suffering, and loneliness.  Whether worthy of international media coverage or not, those times of hurt can challenge our hope and faith, our outlook on life, and our view of others.  The pastor spoke of how this Biblical text addresses the theodicy question, and how from its teachings we can meaningfully move supportively together from suffering to a more joy-filled and hope-filled brighter future in Christ.

     The pastor also wrote about this symbol in his "Pastor's Page" for the March 2016 issue of The Herald (St. Paul's UCC's monthly newsletter).

How I Can Help

(1)  We can help by keeping in prayer all the victims of terrorism and violence, including the Christian refugees from Mosul, as well as all of the refugees displaced by the violence of ISIS, regardless of religion, race, nationality, or ethnicity.  We are all children of God.

      and
(2)(a)  You can send aid through the United Church of Christ’s Syrian Refugee Ministry.  To do so you can make a donation payable to “St. Paul’s UCC” marked “Syria Humanitarian Crisis”, addressed to St. Paul’s UCC, 301 West Penn Avenue, Robesonia PA 19551.  All of the funds are forwarded by our church to be used for refugee aid, none of those donations are used for administrative or other purposes.

     and/or
(2)(b) Throughout the month of March, we are receiving offerings for One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS).  This annual UCC offering supports not only our refugee ministries, but also our UCC national and international disaster ministries and other relief and humanitarian aid.  You can learn more about this offering, by clicking on this OGHS link.
     and/or
(2)(c)  You can make a secure online donation at this link: UCC Refugee Emergency Fund.

To Learn More

(1)  The following link will take you to a recent article on the UCC efforts to provide Syrian Relief Aid:  UCC Refugee Ministries

(2)  The following link will take you to the ACT Alliance website, through who the UCC works in partnership with other denominations in order to provide relief assistance more quickly and in greater magnitude: ACT Alliance

(The ACT Alliance is a coalition of 137 churches and faith-based organizations working together in over 100 countries).

(5)  You can click on this Syrian Refugee Crisis - Bulletin Insert - September 2015 link for a copy of the bulletin insert information from September 2015.

(4)  The following link will take you to The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) website, where you can purchase Nasara t-shirts and other items, the proceeds of which go to help the Christian refugees who fled Mosul:  www.i-am-n.com. 

(Please note that VOM is not affiliated with the UCC.  As we have insufficient direct information about the workings, ministries, witness, doctrine, and monetary dispersions of VOM, the link here is not meant to be an endorsement of VOM, but rather a link to more information).

 

 

SafeConduct Workshop

 

Sunday, February 21, 2016 at 11:45am

 

     Join us this Sunday for information about the Safe Church Policies of St. Paul's UCC, and the processes we use to help keep kids in our care safe.  This training workshop is for all staff and volunteers who work with youth and/or who supervise those who work with youth.  For more information, please see the February issue of the monthly church newsletter The Herald and/or contact the Christian Education chairpersons: Beth Miller and Lisa Randler.

 

Lenten Afternoons

 

Wednesdays 2016 at 12:00noon

 

     St. Paul’s UCC will be sharing in worship with the other Conrad Weiser Ministerium churches this coming Lent.  The following is the schedule for which church we will be at on which Wednesday.

 

          Wednesday, February 17

 

               Church:  Zion ELCA, Womelsdorf

 

               Preacher: The Rev. June Bair

 

          Wednesday, February 24

 

               Church:  St. John's (Hain's)UCC

 

               Preacher:  The Rev. Dr. Jon Fogle

 

          Wednesday, March 2

 

               Church:  Trinity ELCA, Wernersville

 

               Preacher:  The Rev. Julie Osterhout

 

          Wednesday, March 9

 

               Church:  St. Paul's UCC, Robesonia

 

               Preacher:  The Rev. Dr. Benjamin D. Motz

 

          Wednesday, March 16

 

               Church:  St. Daniels's ELCA, Robesonia

 

               Preacher:  The Rev. Rebecca Knox

 

Exploring Faith Series

 

Begins: Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 9:15 a.m.

 

     This six week series begins on Sunday, February 14, 2016.  Our classes will be from 9:15 a.m. - 10:15 a.m., and will be held downstairs in the the Miller Fellowship Hall.
    You are welcome to participate even if you cannot make all the classes (including if you cannot make the first class).  There is no fee.
    During this series of learning more about God, the Bible, the UCC, and Christian discipleship.  This class is helpful for new members and those considering membership - without any pressure to join the church.
    The series will be led by Pastor and will cover such topics as....
    (1)    Why and how do we as Christians use the Bible
    (2)    How and why we worship in the way that we do
    (3)    Prayer practices
    (4)    Baptism and Holy Communion
    (5)    Who is God and what is the Trinity
    (6)    History, structure, creeds, and statements of faith of the UCC
    (7)    Learning about the Spiritual Gifts God has given each of us
    (8)    The Mission & Vision of St. Paul’s UCC
    (9)    The new SafeConduct policies processes within St. Paul’s UCC
    (10) and more....    
    Please note, The Wired Word Sunday school class will not be meeting at this time.  All students participating in The Wired Word class are welcome and encouraged to either participate in this Exploring Faith Series of The Present Word adult class in the Upper Room (upstairs conference room).
    For more information, contact the church office at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.org." data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org.">office@sprucc.org.

 

Boy Scout Sunday

 

Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 10:25am

 

     Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Explorer Scouts, Venture Scouts, and other youth and adults involved in the Boy Scouts of America program are invited to wear their uniforms for this annual celebration. 

 

     To receive the 2016 Boy Scout Sunday patch, use the sign up sheet in the narthex hallway by Sunday, January 31; or contact the church office at office@sprucc.org or 610-621-5770.

 

Ash Wednesday

 

Wednesday, February 10, 2016 at 6:30pm

 

    Our Ash Wednesday worship service will be on Wednesday, February 10 at 6:30pm.  We will be offering communion in the pews.  In the bulletin will be a summary about why we use ashes on Ash Wednesday.  Worshipers will have the option of receiving ashes on their foreheads, the back of their hands, or not at all.

 

SOUPer Bowl

 

Sunday, February 7, 2016 at 11:45am

 

    February 7 is SOUPerbowl Sunday!  Immediately following worship, we will be having a soup luncheon in Miller Fellowship Hall.  Please make your favorite soup, put it in a crock pot with a label (your name and kind of soup), and place it in the kitchen area.  After the worship service we will all enjoy the variety of soups prepared along with any donations of bread, crackers, drinks, and desserts.  For more information please contact Beth Miller or the church office at 610-621-5770 or office@sprucc.orgbethmiller46@comcast.net." data-mce-href="mailto:bethmiller46@comcast.net.">.  You will have plenty of time to enjoy this meal and see the actual football Super Bowl!  (The snow date will be Sunday, February 14).

 

Transfiguration Sunday

 

Sunday, February 7, 2016 at 10:25am

 

Reclaiming the Great Commission

 

Saturday, January 30, 2016 from 9:00-11:00am

 

    As part of the Five Year Growth Plan, we have adopted the Missional Approach as our philosophy to evangelism and church growth.  The Missional Approach to evangelism and church growth is all about reclaiming the Great Commission and living out the Great Commandment.

 

    Pastor Ben will be offering a workshop on the Missional Approach on Saturday, January 30 from 9:00-11:00am.  This free workshop is open to members and visitors alike.  Preregistration is encouraged, so that we can have enough materials photocopied in advance.  To register, please use the sign up sheet in the hallway or contact the church office at Office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:Office@sprucc.org">Office@sprucc.org or 610-621-5770.
As part of the Five Year Growth Plan, all Consistory members and Standing Committee Chairpersons should attend, as well as other leaders.  If you are a leader who cannot attend on this date, please be in contact with Pastor Ben, as there may be the possibility of scheduling a second opportunity.

 

Lenten Afternoons

 

Wednesdays 2016 at 12:00noon

 

    St. Paul’s UCC will be sharing in worship with the other Conrad Weiser Ministerium churches this coming Lent.   We will have worship followed by a luncheon.  The following is the schedule for which church we will be at when:

 

   Wed, Feb  17    –  Zion ELCA, Womelsdorf
   Wed, Feb 24    –  St. John’s (Hain’s) UCC, Wernersville
   Wed, Mar 2    –  Trinity ELCA, Wernersville
   Wed, Mar 9    –  St. Paul’s UCC, Robesonia
   Wed, Mar 16    –  St. Daniel’s ELCA, Robesonia

 

Lenten Evenings

Wednesdays 2016 during Lent at 6:30pm

 

    Join us on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm from February 17 to March 25 for prayer and Bible study.  While adults gather for study, we plan to have Christian based videos for youth.  For more information, please contact the pastor or any member of the Worship Committee.

 

Saturday, January 30, 2016 from 9:00-11:00am

 

    As part of the Five Year Growth Plan, we have adopted the Missional Approach as our philosophy to evangelism and church growth.  The Missional Approach to evangelism and church growth is all about reclaiming the Great Commission and living out the Great Commandment.
    Pastor Ben will be offering a workshop on the Missional Approach on Saturday, January 30 from 9:00-11:00am.  This free workshop is open to members and visitors alike.  Preregistration is encouraged, so that we can have enough materials photocopied in advance.  To register, please use the sign up sheet in the hallway or contact the church office at Office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:Office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:Office@sprucc.org">Office@sprucc.org">Office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:Office@sprucc.org">Office@sprucc.org or 610-621-5770.
    As part of the Five Year Growth Plan, all Consistory members and Standing Committee Chairpersons should attend, as well as other leaders.  If you are a leader who cannot attend on this date, please be in contact with Pastor Ben, as there may be the possibility of scheduling a second opportunity.

 

Greeter & Usher Training

Sunday, January 31, 2016 at 11:45am

 

    There will be greeter and usher training after worship on Sunday, January 31.  All greeters, ushers, and Worship Committee members who did not participate in the 2015 training should be in attendance for this training.  If you cannot participate in this training, please contact Claudette Mettin, chair of the Worship Committee, for the possibility of scheduling an alternative date.

 

     Our scripture focus for the week will be:  "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm."  (Ephesians 6:13).

 

     Click on this PSEC Fall Youth Event Registration link to register.

 

     Click on this PSEC Fall Youth Event Overview and Medical Release Form link for more information.

 

 

 

Star Wars - The Force Awakens - In Worship

Sunday, January 31, 2016 at 10:25am

     Due to the anticipated snow, the Star Wars themed worship service has been postponed to Sunday, January 31.

     Come to worship dressed as your favorite Star Wars character from any of the episodes, or wear your favorite Star Wars tie or t-shirt, or just come as you would normally dress for worship.  The pastor's sermon will include how Star Wars themes relate to our Christian faith.  We will have Star Wars themed hanouts for youth during the Junior Sermon.

     Bring your camera, and get your picture taken with Chewbacca, Darth Vader, a Clone Trooper, or R2-D2 and C-3P0.

     May the faith be with you....

 

 

 

 

 

 

Islamic Prayer Service

Friday, January 22, 2016 - postponed TBA

    As an interfaith experience for teens, we will tentatively be attending an Islamic Prayer Service and learning about the Islamic faith, and promoting good relations between Christianity and Islam.

    Look here for more details as January approaches.

 

I Don't Know What You're Talking About

Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at 6:00pm

     On Tuesday, January 12Aoffice@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.org" data-mce-href="mailto:office@sprucc.org">office@sprucc.orgor 610-621-5770.

 

Installation of New Leadership

Sunday, January 10, 2016 at 10:25am

     On this, the first Sunday after Epiphany we will be installing our newly elected officers into their respective positions.  We hope that you will come and celebrate in this day with them and show them your support and thankfulness for their leadership.

 

 

Second Sunday after Christmas - Epiphany Sunday

Sunday, January 3, 2016 at 10:25am

     Epiphany is on Tuesday, January 6, which we will be celebrating on Sunday, January 3.  Join us in this celebration of the arrival of the Wise Men to Bethlehem, revealing the good news of the Christian message and the reign of Christ being for the whole world.  We will have a children's message, Holy Communion, and sharing in the joy of the season with the singing of Christmas carols.

 

 

Annual Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner

New Year's Day - January 1, 2016 - 11:00am to 2:00pm

   The Men's Fellowship Group will cook a feast to start the new year out right.  This annual meal starts at 11:00 am  to 2:00 pm.  Pork, Sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, applesauce a roll and of course homemade desserts are on the menu.  Adults-$10.00, Children(6-12)-$4.00, under six free.  Come onct and eat yourself full.

     To view photos from last year's event, you can click on this New Years Day 2015 Pork & Sauerkraut Dinner link.