The Memo from Memorial

The Memo from Memorial

Weekly newsletter from Memorial Presbyterian Church, Appleton, WI

Thursday, October 20 , 2016

The Wednesday Night Youth Group had a great time with adults in the congregation to assemble 10 "Empty to Full" pans for Homeless Connections. Last Sunday, we distributed 90 pans, so remember to bring your filled pans back to church this Sunday!

Retirement Party for Linda Boldt

Sunday, November 6, 11:00 a.m.

A retirement party for Linda Boldt will be held on Sunday, November 6 following the worship service. We'll gather for a light brunch to celebrate Linda's 24 years as Memorial's Lay Ministry Coordinator. Donations in honor of Linda's ministry at Memorial may be sent to the church office, with collected funds to be given to one of Linda's favorite charities, LEAVEN Fox Cities. The congregation and friends of Memorial are also encouraged bring a card wishing Linda well in retirement.

For more information on the upcoming Jubilee Celebration, contact the church office via email or call 920-734-1787.

My Neighbor Is Muslim

We have completed two sessions, with one more to go. In the first session we looked at the 5 Pillars of the Muslim faith. In the second we discussed Islam and violence. It's safe to say that everyone who attended came away excited about what they learned and eager to learn more! If you weren't able to make it, seek out someone who was there and ask them what they thought.

We will again be meeting in the Fireside Room this Sunday at 6:30. The topic will be the Islamic State. This 45-minute presentation will be followed by 45 minutes for your questions, led by Imam Mohamed Abdelazim of the Islamic center of Wisconsin. Iman Abdelazim has a Bachelor's degree in Islamic Studies in English and an Associate Degree in Nursing.

Your questions are critical! Several of you have already submitted some questions, but we would love to have more. The names of those who submit questions will be kept anonymous. We want to make sure that we are answering the questions that are on your mind. We hope the discussions will be wide ranging anywhere from theology to what is it like to live as a Muslim in the Fox Valley. I hope you take advantage of this opportunity to learn about and have your questions answered concerning the Muslim Faith! ~ Greg Braatz, Ruling Elder

It's Time for Trunk or Treat!

This just in! We learned that there will be no charge to attend this Saturday's freakishly fun Trunk or Treat event! So if you've delayed getting in your reservation, delay no more 'cause today's the last day to reserve your spot! A chili dinner will be served up at 4:30 pm, followed by games and crafts in the Fellowship Hall. At 5:30 pm, we'll head to the parking lot for trick or treating from the back of everyone's decorated cars! Contact Ariel at 920-716-1190 or send an email today to join in on this ghoulish gala! And remember to bring a nonperishable food item or gently used coat to donate to the Salvation Army Fox Cities Food Pantry and "Coats for Kids" Drive.

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Youth and Children News

Sunday School (Age 4 through Grade 6)

Throughout this fall, the children have been learning of the story of Moses and the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The topic of this Sunday's lesson is "God Gives the People Food," based on Exodus 16:1-8, 11-15, 31-32. Parents, if you'd like to take a look at some at-home activities for this Sunday's lesson, click here. The kids have already started to learn songs for the Christmas program, so be sure to attend every Sunday!

For those new to MPC, c hildren ages 4 through those entering 6th grade meet together in the 4 Yr - Grade 6 Classroom in the lower level on Sunday mornings at 8:45 am. The hour includes the weekly lesson while the kids enjoy a banana, music time, and lesson-based activity.

Kinderchurch Worship (Age 3 - Grade 2)

This Sunday's lesson is "David and Goliath," based on 1 Samuel 17:1-54. Kinderchurch is an age-appropriate worship experience provided for children ages 3 through Grade 2. Children attend worship with their parents for about 15 minutes, and then move to the Kinderchurch room as a group. On Sundays when communion is served, Kinderchurch is not held so that children may experience communion with their parents.

Prayer Buddy Program

The Prayer Buddy mailbox is full of envelopes, so kids make sure to check the mailbox to get mail from your buddy!

Youth Fellowship

The youth group had a wonderful time this past Wednesday filling pans for Homeless Connections with the Empty to Full program. With the help of some adults from the congregation, we were able to assemble over 10 pans of food! Thank you to all who participated! Due to many area schools having a break next week, there will be no youth group on October 26. We will resume on November 2, where Chad will be leading us through the question "Can I be a Christian and still believe in Evolution?" We will also be planning a fun night for November 14, so stay tuned for more news about that!

It's an Exciting Year for Adult Education!

Sunday Morning

Sunday Times will be back again this week! Join us for a lively discussion of current topics. Share your thoughts and together let's discuss what the Christian response should be. The session will be led by Jim Bowman.

In the Beginner's Bible Study, we will be starting a new section on the New Testament on November 6. If you are interested in joining, this would be the perfect time!

Beginner's Bible Study (Mondays, 12:00 noon and 6:00 pm)

This week we will be looking at Chapter 7 of the Old Testament book. This will be our last look at the Old Testament, exploring "The Books of the Writing." We will take brief looks at Psalms, Proverbs, Song of Songs, among others. (I have extra copies of "The Bible From Scratch; The New Testament For Beginners" in my office if you need one ~ Greg)

Covenant Bible Study (Tuesdays, 12:00 noon)

This week we will be working on Episode 7 - "1&2 Corinthians; Logic of the Cross, Consider What Christ Accomplished." What is up with these "fools for Christ"? Make sure you are keeping up with your weekly Bible readings!

Lectionary Lunch (Wednesdays, 12:00 noon)

What did you hear regarding 2 Samuel 7:1-17 - God's promise to David concerning his heir, who will be God's son and whose kingdom will last forever? We look forward to 1 Kings 5:1-5, 8:27-30, 41-43 where Solomon fulfills the promise to David and builds the temple. It is a place for all nations.

If you are interested in participating in any of these studies but haven't joined in, please do so! You can contact Greg Braatz about how to jump in.

Visitation Ministry

The visitation ministry has been in effect for nearly two years now. Once a month, we meet for a short time in the Fireside Room, then go out to visit church members who can no longer make it to church. Our goal is to give them another connection to church - a personal visit to let them know they are remembered and appreciated. But the visitation team receives so much in return.

In the past two years, we have: listened to stories of MPC and Appleton in the "old days," heard stories of childhoods on the family farm and stories of past careers; looked at family pictures; admired antiques carefully tucked away on shelves behind glass doors; oohed and aahed over handmade doilies/afghans/pillows; been stunned to see a room full of handmade violins and harps; watched eagles flying over the river; shared flowers and treats; and given smiles but received more smiles.

It would be wonderful if we could visit more people more often. But we need more help. If you think you would be interested in joining us to participate in this very rewarding ministry, please contact either Pam Dodge (687-6445, rndodge@aol.com) or Betty Lockhart (733-2347, salockhart@gmail.com). Training with Pastor Mike is available. We meet at 1:00 on the third Monday of each month. However, special arrangements can be made to visit at a time of your convenience.

Sanctuary Piano Update

Our deepest thanks to all who have contributed to the purchase of the beautiful new Steinway Grand sanctuary piano! As of this writing, we only need $1,500 more to complete the purchase of this exceptional piano, which we were able to purchase for about half of its retail value of $90,000. P lease consider making a donation to cover the remaining amount to enhance music in worship at Memorial Presbyterian. Just send a check to the church with "Piano Fund" in the memo portion of your check, or donate online here .

Christmas SERRV Sale

Saturday, December 3

SERRV Sale at MPC open to the community, as well as MPC members

Sunday, December 4

SERRV Sale at MPC before and after Worship. ONE SUNDAY ONLY

What is the SERRV Sale?

Crafts made in fair trade conditions by artisans struggling with poverty in the US and many other countries are sold through SERRV. We have held SERRV sales at MPC during Advent for decades. At this sale you can find unique, hand-crafted gifts, food (chocolate, soups, etc.) and decor and know that the person who made the item has decent working conditions and fair compensation for the work.

What is different this year?

In the past we have had a room in the church dedicated to the SERRV sale through Advent, with sales open each Sunday during Advent. This year the sale will be both broader and shorter. The sale will be held only on the first weekend in December, and it will be open to the whole community on the Saturday of that weekend, in addition to being available for MPC members and visitors on Sunday before and after the worship service. Mark your calendars with these dates, and watch the weekly email updates for more details about time and location.

Celebrating Generosity

Calling all investigators and detectives - we need your help in celebrating the generosity of MPC and its members! Located in the hall outside of the Lay Ministry Office is a bulletin board that we have set up to celebrate the generosity of MPC. Do you wish to recognize an MPC member who is engaged in the community and gives of their time/resources? Do you wish to celebrate the generosity of someone in the congregation for their efforts at MPC?

We have just the "ticket" for you! When you have "sighted" someone showing generosity, pull a "sight-ation" from the Generosity Board and complete it. Once you have completed your ticket, pin it to the board so that others can read about the special gifts that our members offer within, among and beyond our church walls. Let's fill that board with tickets as we celebrate acts of generosity! We will include these recognitions with our pledge cards come together in worship on Commitment Sunday in November.

~ The Committee on Generosity

Mission in Action

Warming Shelter Opportunities

We have filled all of our food and serving slots for our upcoming November and December dates at the Warming Shelter. Thanks to all who have volunteered. We still have 3 hospitality slots available. We need someone to work the breakfast shift from 6:30 am to 8:30 am on Sunday, November 6. We also have the 8:00 pm to midnight shift available on Sunday, November 6 and Saturday, December 3. We will need to let the Warming Shelter know by October 24 if we are unable to fill these slots so they can make other arrangements. Please contact Fred Umland at 920-903-8981 or via email for more information or to sign up.

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Think Mittens

There's a bit of a chill in the air, and that can only mean one thing -- it's time to pull out your favorite yarn and start knitting or crocheting mittens, hats or scarves for MPC's Mitten Tree! Don't have time to make a trip to the yarn shop? You'll find yarn available for your use in the cabinet in the east hallway. As always, items will be delivered to the Community Clothes Closet to keep area children comfy and warm this winter.

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Salvation Army Collection

The next Sunday for Salvation Army collection of nonperishable food and paper products is November 20 (the third Sunday of the month). That's the Sunday before Thanksgiving, so let's think about nonperishable food items for the upcoming holidays!
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Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA)

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) urges your support for those affected by Hurricane Matthew. Earliest assessments confirm extensive damage in southwestern Haiti and eastern Cuba. PDA was already active in the area, doing long-term recovery work related to the 2010 earthquake in Haiti and Superstorm Sandy of 2012. PDA will immediately begin working alongside established partners to respond to this crisis. Immediate response will help provide essential food, water and supplies for impacted communities and villages. As long-term recovery needs are determined, PDA will continue to support those in impacted areas to ensure a comprehensive recovery. The needs for response will be great. God's people are once again called on to stand in the "GAP " - Give. Act. Pray. For more information, and to contribute to this effort, visit the PDA website.

Fellowship Events

Fellowship Group to Attend

Sister Act

Interested in seeing local high school talent (including some MPC youth) in action? Then join us for a Fellowship evening to see the musical Sister Act at Appleton East High School on Friday, November 11 at 7:30 p.m. Sign up at the Fellowship Table outside the church office by Sunday, October 30 or send an email to Nancy Umland so we know how many tickets to purchase. Cost of each ticket is $12.00. If you have any questions, please contact Nancy or call 920-903-8981.

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Fall Clean-up Day this Saturday

Grab your rakes, put on your garden gloves, and come to the Fall Clean-up day this Saturday, October 22 from 8:00 am - 12:00 noon. Join in for the full morning - or whatever hours you can contribute - to clean up the church grounds in preparation for the long winter ahead! Many hands make light work, as the saying goes, and all ages are welcome. Coffee, water and refreshments will be waiting, and even if the weather doesn't cooperate, there will be plenty of indoor activities to keep us busy. Hope to see you there!

Parking Permits Required in Lot #2

No, your eyes aren't deceiving you...there's been quite a bit more activity in MPC's Parking Lot #2 on the corner of Meade and John Streets! That's because employees of Bon Appetit, the Lawrence University food service organization, are now able to park in all south and east-facing parking spaces. We know many MPC members like to park in that lot, particularly to attend an on-campus activity. However, you must obtain a permit from the church office in order to park without the risk of being ticketed and towed, even as an MPC member!

Pray Without Ceasing

Wednesday Morning Prayer Group

"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you will receive it, and it will be yours."

Mark 11:24

The MPC Prayer Group meets every Wednesday from 10:00 am - 11:00 am, in the Chapel, praying for our families, our church, our community, and our world. We are here to pray for anything you might need. Please let your prayer request be made known by writing it down in a note and placing it in the prayer request box in the church office, or email to the Group Coordinator, Connie Olson. All requests are confidential. If you would like to join the group, please also contact Connie.

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This week, let us pray for...

The following young people who will be confirmed this Sunday: Evan Buss (Covenant Partner Richard Dodge), Marley Johnson (Covenant Partner Megan Biese), Breckyn Shaffer (Covenant Partner Maggie Shaffer Layng), and A shley Zuege (Covenant Partner Kim Goodwin)
Jackie Kempf is home and recovering from back surgery.
John Stevenson will be moving to a new group home next week.
John Koskinen's father has entered hospice care.
Kerry Marinan's mother passed away last week due to pneumonia, and services were held on Monday. A link to her obituary may be found here.

If you have a prayer request, please send it to Paula Hoglund for inclusion in next week's communication.

Sunday Morning Volunteers Needed

Amazingly enough, it's not too early to start thinking of holiday schedules! Here are some openings for December services:

December 18, 10:00 a.m. - 2 ushers

December 24, 4:00 p.m. - 3 greeters, 1 head usher, 2 ushers

December 24, 10:00 p.m. - 3 greeters, 1 head usher, 2 ushers

December 25, 10:00 a.m. - 2 ushers

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Many thanks to all of our Sunday Morning volunteers! If you are unable to serve on the day you are scheduled, please arrange for a substitute and email the church office with any changes. For a full schedule and volunteer contact information, click here.

October 23, 10:00 AM Worship Service

Greeters: Ken Opgenorth, Andy & Connie Ogilvie

Head Usher: Tim Shaffer

Ushers: Mason Buss, Laurie McCulloch, Elaine Presby, Pat Spindler

Scripture Reader: Harriet Robson

Kinderchurch: Cori Marinan, Leader; Paige Kempf, Greeter

Coffee Hosts: Jeanne & Peter Ryerson

Counters: Gayle Hardt and Marty Ward

October 30, 10:00 AM Worship Service - Jubilee Sunday

Greeters: Pat Spindler, Ariel Ehricke and Nathan Roth

Head Usher: Tom Neal

Ushers: Norm Colson, Mike Harer, Fred Umland, Maggie Layng

Scripture Reader: Jane Stevenson

Communion Servers: Richard Dodge, Beth Lepinski, Steve Weber, TBD

Communion Preparer: Mary Lou Opgenorth

Kinderchurch: Pam Dodge, Leader; Dolly Manning, Greeter

Coffee Hosts: Sarah Beard, Dolly Manning

Counters: Kerry Guttenberg, Diane Lightfield

Community Notices

Around the World with Books

The book sale you've all been waiting for has finally arrived! The 80th Annual AAUW Book Sale begins today at Northland Mall and will be held 9am-8pm today and Friday; on Saturday from 9am-5pm and on Sunday from Noon-3pm. The sale will also be held next weekend, October 27-29. Most books are only $1, and next weekend is half-price! Get some early Christmas shopping done and select from countless hardback books, paperbacks, children's books, books on CD, large print books, games and much more! All profits support student scholarships.

Ghoul's Night Out

The Fox Valley Sweet Adelines Chorus presents two performances of Ghoul's Night Out on Saturday, October 29 at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm at UW Fox, 1478 Midway Road in Menasha. Advance tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. All tickets at the door are $20. For more information, contact 920-982-5639 or email jshszko1@att.net.