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Have a restful Labor Day!
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Click on the links below to go directly to that section of the newsletter.
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| Open arms and serving hands transforming lives through Christ |
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JOIN US FOR
Worship Services:
8:00 and 10:30 a.m.
Traditional
9:15 a.m.
Praise and Worship
THIS SUNDAY,
September 2, 2018
"The Upside-Down Gospel"
Pastor Janice
Matthew 5:1-12
215-357-6998
CHURCH HOURS
Monday - Friday
9:00 AM -2:00 PM
Please Note: The Church Office will be closed on Labor Day, Monday, September 3.
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Thursday, August 30
Sunday, September 2
9:15am
Children's Sunday School
10:30am
Children & Youth Sunday School
Tuesday, September 4
7:00pm
Praise Band Rehearsal
Thursday, September 6
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|  PRAYER LIST Please click to view
All "Ongoing Prayer Concerns" will be listed for
2 weeks.
Please submit a new prayer request card if you desire to renew the listing for 2 additional weeks.
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Click on the links below to see more
St. John's Photos!
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MOBILE GIVING
- Just go to our website stjohnsivyland.com
- Click on the donate now button and register.
Once you've registered, you can either make donations by debit or credit.
OR try
TEXT GIVING
All you have to do is text the amount you wish to give to 215-398-1617.
You will immediately receive a one-time registration link, then just follow the prompts to complete your donation!
It's quick and secure.
The same vendor that handles electronic giving for us, Vanco Services, has state of the art encryption, so you can rest easy that your transaction is 100% safe and confidential.
If you have any questions about mobile or text giving,
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The Grace Cafe is open Sunday mornings for fellowship
and refreshments.
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Lycoming is now entering its fourth year working with the coffee farmers in the El Naranjito Valley. The support of St. John's members is an integral part of the many wonderful things that are happening in this small village in the Dominican Republic. Not only have we substantially increased the family income by paying a decent wage for the coffee they grow, but Lycoming students are involved in improved coffee growing techniques, clean water, sustainable farming and providing solar power. This picture shows two students giving a quick chemistry lesson to some of the village children. Ultimately their work is about building relationships and empowering people. These students demonstrate that in a very real way.
If you would like to purchase
Warrior Coffee,
order forms are available in the
Grace Café.
Thank you for helping to fight for what's right
one cup at a time!
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Donations of non-perishable food for the Eastwick Food Pantry are always needed through-out the year. Please place contributions in the shopping carts located in the narthex and fellowship hall lobby.
Thank you for your support.
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Acolyte training for children in grades 3-6 will take place on Sunday, September 9th following the 10:30 service.
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Join the Conversation! Bring a Friend!
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RONALD McDONALD HOUSE TABS COLLECTION
Naomi Circle is collecting tabs from beverage cans for Ronald McDonald House. You will find a container under the sign hanging on the UMW bulletin board. Please place them in a plastic bag and put it in the container. This is an ongoing collection, so keep bringing them in as you collect them. Thank you.
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DAILY DEVOTIONALS
Looking for a little inspiration during the week?
Try an online devotional.
(has many devotionals to choose from)
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Red Bird Trailers
Are Open
Daily
9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Drop off Donations of clothing and household items to the trailers located in the back of the church parking lot.
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SUNDAY, September 23, 2018
4:00 PM
ST. JOHN'S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
(Fellowship Hall)
Everyone is invited to attend with their animals (properly restrained, of course) as we give thanks for all God's creation, and celebrate His gift of creatures, great and small.
Each animal will receive a personal blessing, a treat, a gift and a free picture of this special event.
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Time to dust off your Christmas spirit!
St John's Christmas gift to our community!
December 16, 2018 5 PM- 8 PM
"Drive-Thru Nativity"
Experience the complete Christmas story as you drive through the church grounds!
Your time and talents are needed to make this a huge success!!
Stay tuned for additional information!
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ST. JOHN'S
DRIVE-THRU PRAYER
Wednesdays from 4:30-6pm.
Our prayer team offers prayer to those who for various reasons don't feel that they can come to church but do realize their need for prayer.
If you would like to join us and be a part of this ministry of
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Prayer Shawl Ministry
What It Is About
The St. John's Prayer Shawl Ministry involves those women who can knit or crochet yarn into shawls which are given, free of charge, to those needing comfort and support. Shawls are usually provided to those with medical issues, shut ins, those who are mourning the loss of a loved one, and people facing other serious life challenges. Recipients do not need to be members of the church, so shawls may be requested for family members, neighbors, co-workers or friends. The person requesting the shawl is responsible for its delivery. Nearly 300 shawls and lap robes have been made and given out since 2009.
In addition to traditional shawls for adults, the group also makes lap robes for men who prefer that item rather than a shawl. Shawls are also available in small sizes for children. Each baby baptized at St. John's receives a white baptismal shawl.
The crafters also make yarn items for a variety of programs outside the church. Knit hats were made for the Doylestown Hospital infusion center, Samaritan's Purse Christmas shoeboxes (along with knit toys), the World Vision Knit for Kids program, and homeless shelters. Knit or crocheted scarves were provided for deployed military members through Operation Gratitude. The group provided prayer squares for distribution at St. John's Middletown Grange Fair booth and Drive Through Prayer. Shawls have been provided for the United Methodist Women collection and for use by the Twining Village and Wesley Enhanced Living chaplains. This December, the Prayer Shawl Ministry will be providing shawls and lap robes for those residents attending the annual St. John's worship service at Neshaminy Manor.
New members of the ministry group are always welcome; lessons and guidance can be provided for beginners and those with rusty skills. The group
meets monthly on the second Tuesday to knit or crochet together and to pray over the completed items. For more information, contact Carol Rice at 215-357-1203.
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UMC LINKS
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 After both of my grandparent's passed away, my aunt and uncle moved into the house they had lived in for many years - the house where so many family memories had been made. They continued to live there and to keep up the family traditions, and then they, too, passed from this life to the next.
A few days ago, I happened to pass by their house in Springfield, Delaware County. Due to complicated legal issues, the house had been empty for the last six years. I was used to driving by and seeing the same white clapboard Cape Cod with the same hedges, trees, and mailbox as ever. But this time, I almost missed the house. Suddenly, it was no longer there, and in it's place was a cute little light green gingerbread house with white scalloped trim.
My initial reaction was one of shock! What happened to Nanna & Aunt Pat's house?! Something isn't right!
I looked it up and yes, of course - it had finally been sold after all this time, and someone had fixed it up and put their own personal touches on it. Wow!
Then I thought about the fact that it's been over 17 years since I sold MY house in Springfield, and other than someone sending me pictures over the years, I haven't once driven by the house. In fact, even though it's been an awfully long time, I was shocked (and maybe even a little dismayed) to see in the photos that 'someone' had the nerve to repaint the house in another color & to remove the tree in the front yard! How dare they, lol!!
It's sometimes disconcerting to see hard evidence of days gone by, good memories that are now nothing more than memories, and to be reminded of people who've gone on to glory without us, isn't it?
But dealing with loss is simply part of the life God has graciously given us. I'm not sure why God has designed life the way He has (that question is on my long list of questions I have for God as soon as I see Him!), but maybe part of the answer is that we tend to perceive things only as the world perceives, even though Scripture reminds us that we are not of the world - this life is just temporary. If we can instead perceive things from the perspective of ETERNITY, as God does, then we'll be more inclined to celebrate the things and people we've encountered along the way, and to also look forward with great joy and anticipation to all that God has in store for us for all eternity. That is my prayer for all of us today!
Pastor Janice
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CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRIES
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SUMMER SUNDAY SCHOOL
All Children 4 years to 6th grade from both service times, 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. will go directly to Holywood
(Room D)
Parents can pick up from Room A or C.
Nursery
Available at both
9:15 and 10:30.
We welcome all children birth through 4 years old.
The nursery is equipped with a calling system and will alert you in worship if your child needs you.
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CHILDREN'S REGISTRATION
As we approach the new school year, this means the beginning of Kids Church and Sunday School.
If you have registered your children last year, then all you need to do is fill out the "short " registration form. Those who have not registered, will need the long form.
Please help us to help your children have a safe and exciting time here at St. John's.
or go to stjohnsivyland.com under Children's Ministry
to register.
For more information about our Children or Youth Ministries, please contact Director,
David Bigam, [email protected]
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YOUTH GROUP
Sunday Nights from 7-8:30 PM
Fellowship and fun for youth grades 7 thru 12. Youth group resumes September 16
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If you are in 7th grade or higher and want to be confirmed in the church, the time has come!
Confirmation Classes are beginning soon.
Keep an eye out for your snail-mail and signups!!
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Morrisville Food Bank Monday
Monday, September 10th
Please contact David Bigam.
Do Not Miss This Opportunity!
Come and experience great Fellowship
on the 2nd Monday of every month!
Morrisville is open to
EVERYONE interested in going to help make 220 grocery bags full of food.
Families are always welcome!
Following this event we always head to Chick-fil-a for Milkshakes!!!!
And as always
Bring a Friend and Bring a Can!
Have you HELPED anyone today?
Have you SAID SOMETHING NICE to anyone today?
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St. John's ASP Crew
Annual Stockholders Luncheon
Sunday, September 30 at 12:00
If
you have purchased stock for ASP 2018,
your dividends are here!
If you did not purchase our ASP Stock, you can still join us for $10.00 per person
and hear from our youth what made this year another AMAZING time in Appalachia.
RSVP's are required in order for us to have enough food for all...
RSVP by: September 23, 2018
3 ways to RSVP
Sign up in Narthex
Text number of people attending to 215-206-6779
Or simply call me, David Bigam at:
Church - 215-357-6998
My Cell - 215-206-6779
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SING UNTO THE LORD
Vocal Choirs
St. John's Vocal Choirs provide opportunities for EVERYONE to be involved in music. From young children through adults, we have a place for you in our music program. Beginning musicians and experienced singers are welcome in our Vocal Choirs.
JOYFUL VOICES
Children grades K-5 (6) are invited to be part of the Joyful Voices. Children learn songs to present in Worship Services. The Joyful Voices usually sing on the First and Third Sunday each month. They also sing at special services through the year. REHEARSAL is after the 10:30 Worship Service each Sunday. Rehearsal will last 25-30 minutes. (Joyful Chimes rehearsal follows Joyful Voices).
YOUTH CHOIR
Youth grades 6-12 (or older) are welcome in this choir. The Youth Choir usually presents anthems in Worship on the Second and Fourth Sunday each month. More advanced anthems are presented with the Adult Choir on occasion. REHEARSALS are on Sunday evening from 6:00-7:00 right before YOUTH GROUP (choir members are encouraged to stay for Youth Group). Prior membership in a choir is not required.... NEW MEMBERS are always welcome.
ADULT CHOIR
The Adult Choir presents music every week during 10:30 worship. College students are encouraged to be a member of the choir. Anyone with some music experience is welcome in the choir. There is no audition. REHEARSAL is on Thursday night at 8:00 in the Sanctuary.
PRAISE BAND
Our Praise Band presents music during our 9:15 worship service. Vocalists and Instrumentalists (guitar / keyboard / percussion) are ALWAYS welcome. REHEARSAL is on Tuesday night, at 7:00, and usually lasts an hour.
Roy Nelson, Director
215-962-8928
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Ring a Joyful Sound
Handbell Choirs
St. John's Hand Bell Choirs provide opportunities for EVERYONE to be involved in music. From young children through adults, we have a place for you in our music program. Beginning musicians and experienced ringers are welcome in our Bell Choirs. We hope to expand on the gains we made last year in all of our choirs.
JOYFUL CHIMES
Children grades 2-5 (6) are welcome in the Joyful Chime Bell Choir. Children will be taught basic ringing skills and music reading. No experience in necessary. REHEARSALS take place on Sundays following 10:30 worship service. (The Bells rehearse AFTER the Joyful Voices singing choir rehearsal). We are usually finished by 12:45.
GENesis BELLS
GENesis Bells is a multi-generational choir that has youth grades 6-12 & adults participating. We were very successful with this format last year, and it allowed us to play more difficult music which was a challenge for all involved. There are several open spots in this choir for ADULTS and YOUTH. REHEARSALS take place on Tuesday afternoon, from 5:45 to 6:45. We usually ring once a month, on the Second Sunday.
CELEBRATION RINGERS
This Bell Choir is for ADULTS who have a desire to ring in a choir with limited playing and rehearsing. The REHEARSALS are usually on the FIRST MONDAY of each month. Playing is at Christmas, during Lent and at the end of the year. Music experience/reading is a plus, but not required.
RING OF FAITH
Our advanced Bell Choir rings every month, and rehearses on Thursday nights each week. At the present time, there are no openings in this choir. However, we always need "standby" substitutes. Music experience/reading is a requirement.
Roy Nelson, Director
215-962-8928
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POSTPONED:
CHURCH-WIDE PICNIC
The picnic that was originally scheduled for September 9 has been postponed to a later date. We will be rescheduling sometime later in the school year. Feel free to contact Lara Bolte with any questions or concerns at
[email protected]
or 215-357-6998 ext. 309.
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Wednesday, September 5th at 6:45 PM
Fellowship Hall
No fee.
We will meet the 1st Wednesday of each month.
No experience necessary - come out and have fun!
Bring water!
All ages are welcome, and feel free to bring a friend.
Call Carol Eberz (215-355-3572) or Jane Horton (215-630-6020) with questions!
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HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE TRIP!
We have reserved a block of tickets for Hunterdon Hills Playhouse Dinner Theatre's matinee production of
Christmas in the Air!
This luncheon show will be
Thursday, November 29, 2018 and is an original, holiday musical with songs, comedy sketches, dance numbers, and a live on-stage orchestra.
The cost is $95 per person and includes deluxe motor coach transportation, full course meal, dessert buffet, tax & gratuity. We had a great time when we visited the playhouse last Spring and are excited to return! You can sign up for the trip in Narthex after church, or contact Lara Bolte (
[email protected] or 215-357-6998).
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ST. JOHN'S BOOK CLUB
The Prayer Box
by: Lisa Wingate
Wednesday, September 12. 2018
10:00 AM and 7 PM
Parlor
Everyone is welcome!
The Prayer Box is a masterpiece of story and skill. "Lisa Wingate is a remarkably gifted storyteller. Her novels both captivate and cradle you, and
The Prayer Box is Lisa at her finest. Tandi's extraordinary journey of healing and hope on Hatteras Island is a mesmerizing thrill and a joy you'll want to savor."
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NEW BIBLE STUDY OPPORTUNITY:
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
P
lease join us on Wednesday evenings starting September 19 at 7pm in the Grace Cafe for the study of the Gospel of Luke. We'll be using the New Daily Study Bible by William Barclay, The Gospel of Luke, for our study book. Our goals for the study are to deepen our understanding of the Word of God and Who Jesus is as revealed to us by the Scriptures of Jesus's life, ministry, death and resurrection. William Barclay is a world-renowned Biblical scholar whose commentary on these Scriptures will help reveal to us the understanding we seek and bring us closer to the God we love and serve. Please feel free to invite others and hope to see you for our study in His Name.
This study is led by Ken Lee and the cost of the book is $15.
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HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY COURSE
"Resurrection to Rome" a four week course to explore the early history of Christianity will be taught by Paul Henry in October. We will do a Tuesday morning class and a repeat of the class on Tuesday evenings. The course will explore the incredible growth of the Christian Church from the few disciples of Jesus who gathered at the foot of the cross on Good Friday to a worldwide religious movement by 350 A.D. Come and find out the dynamics of this growth and learn about your own Christian DNA.
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- WHAT is R.I.S.E. Sunday? A morning of worship and hands-on mission projects with local and global impact.
- WHAT projects are available?
- Pillowcase Dresses for Little Dresses for Africa: Goal: Make 60 dresses, which are distributed in remote villages and aid in the formation of relationships with mission groups focused on clean water and primary education efforts.
- Bagged lunches for Trenton Area Soup Kitchen: Goal: Make 750 bagged lunches, including peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, for distribution to people experiencing food insecurity in Trenton.
- Necessity/Outreach Kits for The Synergy Project: Goal: Assemble 90 kits for The Synergy Project, a street outreach program offering assistance for runaway and homeless youth and young adults
- Cutlery assembly for Trenton Area Soup Kitchen: Goal: Using plasticware, paper napkins, and adhesive bands, roll 4,000 sets of dinnerware for use at one of the 6,000 meals supplied by TASK each week.
- Rise Against Hunger: Goal: Assemble 13, 824 meals which will feed 37 children in developing countries for one year, through international hunger relief organization Rise Against Hunger.
- WHEN is it and WHEN can I sign up for a project? R.I.S.E. Sunday is October 7, 2018. We will have a worship service at 9 AM, then two sessions of mission projects from 10:15 to noon. We will begin project registration on Sunday, September 2.
- WHO can participate? EVERYONE! We will have projects for all ages and ability levels, and the nursery will be open for children age 3 and younger.
FINANCIAL AND MATERIAL SUPPORT IS NEEDED
Financial support for Rise Against Hunger and other R.I.S.E. Sunday projects: Although we are seeking material donations, there are some perishable items we will need to purchase directly for the bagged lunches, and we need significant financial support for Rise Against Hunger. Here are some suggestions. You could choose to feed 1 child (through Rise Against Hunger) for a year ($124), 6 months ($62), or 1 month ($10). Donations of any amount are appreciated! Use the pink envelopes in the pew racks and designate "R.I.S.E." on the envelope. We will also be doing a communion offering in September.
Donated materials needed by 9/23:
Click on the link below to sign up to donate items. You may also go to the church website for specific information about these items a or fill out the sign-up sheet in the bulletin and place it in Lara Bolte's mailbox (by the church office).
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R.I.S.E. SUNDAY
T-SHIRT SALE
We are pleased to announce that we are offering R.I.S.E. Sunday t-shirts this year! The shirts are available in a rainbow of colors and sizes and the cost will be $10 for adult shirts (size XS - XXXL) or $10 for children's shirts (size XS - XL).
We will be taking orders in the Narthex during in between church services each Sunday through September 16
(the quick deadline is necessary in order to ensure the shirts arrive in time for people to have the option of wearing them on R.I.S.E. Sunday). Contact Lara Bolte (
[email protected] or 215-357-6998) with any questions or concerns, or to place an order if you miss the opportunity to do so on a Sunday.
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UNITED METHODIST MEN'S BREAKFAST
Saturday, September 8th
8 AM
Fellowship Hall
All Men Welcome!
Sign-up sheet in the Narthex.
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UMW HARVEST WELCOME BRUNCH
Saturday, September 29 - 11:00 AM
All the women of St John's and their friends and neighbors are invited to the UMW Harvest Welcome Brunch on Saturday, September 29 at 11:00 AM in Fellowship Hall.
After enjoying soup and wraps, our own Pat Mayrh
ofer will present special guest Tucker, her therapy dog. Pat and Tucker are members of the group Nor'wester Therapy Dogs. They work as a team in schools and libraries to help build student motivation and enhance focus. They also offer emotional support and a stress free learning environment for students.
We will get an up close look at how therapy dogs are trained and the important work they do.
There is a sign-up sheet on the UMW bulletin board. You may also email Arlene Williams [email protected] or call 215-355-0162 to sign up or get more information.
A $5.00 donation is requested.
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