The Arkive: Ark and Dove's Newsletter
|
|
This Sunday is our 2019 confirmation and commissioning service!
|
|
|
|
Dear Friends and Members of Ark and Dove,
Grace points are not scores or numbers. Grace points are those times and places in our lives when we intersect with God's Spirit and find our hearts in the words of John Wesley, "strangely warmed." Many people report that witnessing a baptism or being baptized are grace points for them. People find their hearts touched whether it is an infant or adult baptism and most of those Sundays I look up, and I find the congregation focused and quiet. When we are baptized, we are granted God's spirit to help us recognize the many ways that God is present in the world. Grace points lead to grace points.
In the Presbyterian world, we practice infant baptism with the promise and the expectation that the parents will raise their child in the church. The presumption is that the child will worship regularly, attend Sunday school, Logos, youth group and confirmation and when in high school (at Ark and Dove) make an adult decision as to whether they can confirm their parents' promises. We ask our parents not to force their children to get confirmed. If Pastor Jon and Pastor Tim cannot convince a student that confirmation is a journey full of grace points, then let them be. The last thing I want some 40 year old father or mother of two to say to their spouse twenty-four years from now, is "I am not coming with you to church because I had religion shoved down my throat as a kid." I trust that the Spirit works around these work-arounds.
This Sunday is a grace point Sunday. Well hopefully all Sundays are; but this Sunday will be filled with extra grace, as we are welcoming a confirmation commissioning class into membership at the 11:00 am service. They are: Dillon Benson, Daniel Chidlow, Savannah Howe, Mackenzie Kirby, Joseph Morrison, John Salkeld, Alexander Turse, Alexis Yeager. When we commission a youth, it means their parents chose not to have them baptized as an infant or child. So seven youth will confirm the promises of their parents and one youth will be baptized and accepted in membership upon profession of faith. I hope you will be present to witness these grace points. I hope you will be present to support these youth. Pastor Jon and eight sponsors have worked hard this year to welcome this class into membership. I am pointedly looking forward to celebrating with them.
I am also looking forward to Hillsong Sunday at the 11:00 am worship service next week, June 9, and the Brahms',
Ein Deutsches Requiem, nach Worten der heiligen Schrift (
A German Requiem, to Words of the Holy Scriptures) at the 9:30 a choir led service on June 16--grace points not to be missed.
May the peace of Christ reign in your hearts.
Peace of Christ,
Pastor Tim
timsstern@gmail.com
|
|
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
-Matthew 28:18b-20
|
|
You are to be found in our lives,
Help us to seek you.
You do wonders among us,
Help us to see you.
You reign over our world,
Help us to obey you.
You triumph over all,
Help us to rise with you.
You enter your kingdom,
Help us to live with you.
'With you, Lord' from
Tides and Seasons by David Adam
|
|
This week we welcome both children's choirs to sing the anthem during the offering. Douglas Wagner's
Sing, Sing, Sing is an energetic song of praise with a memorable chorus that repeats several times. We've enjoyed singing together this year and learning and growing through our practices and songs. Children's choirs will resume in the fall.
Peace,
Margaret
Director of Music
margaret.mcgillivray@gmail.com
|
|
Brahms' women's sectional will be held in the Marshall Room
from 10:35-11:10 this Sunday.
|
|
|
|
This Sunday we get to celebrate confirmation at the 11 am band led service. We are happy to accept our youth being confirmed and support their call to leadership and discipleship. There will be lots of great classic songs during the service to inspire faith, discipleship and stewardship.
Next Sunday, June 9, is our Hillsong Sunday at the band led service. Please join us to hear some of your favorite songs and celebrate the first day of Pentecost!
God bless,
Pat
Director of Contemporary Music
psise11@gmail.com
|
|
 |
Year to date budget on giving
Year to date actual giving
Shortfall as of May 31, 2019
|
|
|
|
$206,482.00
$190,780.00
$15,702.00
|
|
|
|
DONATE
ONLINE
! Per capita, pledged and un-pledged, one-time and recurring! Click
HERE
to donate online today!
|
|
TEXTING YOUR DONATIONS to 410-983-3481. You can text one-time or recurring donations to this number. Text
Give to get started. Text
Commands for more options. Questions? Please contact Alta Paronto, church treasurer, alparonto@gmail.com; or Wendy Wellington, swt520@verizon.net
|
|
|
|
The Deacons want to celebrate all those who have achieved educational milestones this year! If you or a family member recently graduated from high school, undergrad or grad school, let us know admin@arkanddove.org! Please include the graduate's name, school and, if applicable, his/her major. Graduates will be included in the prayer list and formally acknowledged in an upcoming church bulletin.
|
|
|
|
Your Commitment Between You and Your Church
|
As our team works to process the new pledges and review where we stand financially, I'd like to think back over where we have been and provide some insights into how our finances are impacted by giving. We gratefully received 74 pledges for the June 2019 to December 2020 time period. Thirty-four of those pledges were increases over the prior pledge. That is incredibly great news: almost half of all pledgers increased their pledges. We also were blessed to receive 16 new pledges from individuals/families who had not previously pledged. 16 new pledges is a bench mark to be celebrated! The challenge arises in that we have over 150 member households. We also lost four pledges due to families relocating out of state. This was a double whammy, as we no longer have the gifts of their service either. Additionally, four other families had to decrease giving due to significant changes in financial circumstances. Our goal remains an overall 20% increase, but, as of today, we are mostly flat with no overall increase. This, however, does not mean we are without hope nor does it mean we lose our focus on those goals. In fact, Paul writes in his letter to the Ephesians (1:17-19) these words about hope.
I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power.
During our discernment process, we actively sought feedback from you in multiple ways. You were clear that you wanted us to do more—more support financially for our staff; building maintenance, which we spent heavily on last year (and still have a long list of projects that need doing); fully funding all of our ministries (especially Christian Education); and continuing to work towards that goal of giving 10% of our budget to mission. All of these are worthwhile and awesome points of focus. All of them cost and need strong financial support to achieve. Overall, the message from you, the members, of Ark and Dove has been and continues to be positive. We believe in our church, we want to make an impact, and we are willing to do the hard work to get us there.
I know that there continue to be questions regarding the pledge process, whether it's necessary and why it matters. It matters because, as a church, we have ministry opportunities to fund. We must have the tools, facilities, people and resources to do the work in God's community. Without knowing what our income is, we must cut expenses to the level based on expected giving. It also makes spending challenging, as we must rely on unpledged income to fill in the gaps. Don't get me wrong—I don't want people to pledge if they don't have the capacity to give. I want everyone to be financially responsible!
For those that don't feel inclined to pledge or give, I'm curious as to why. I would again invite you into prayer and by raising the issue here for all to see, I'd like everyone to at least keep thinking about their level of giving. We have shared much biblical guidance about stewardship. We have been reminded by the Apostle Paul that the Lord (and everyone) loves a cheerful and generous giver (II Corinthians 2:7). We have referenced the six marks of discipleship, which include generous stewardship. We have shared ministry plans and budget information. We are offering regular financial updates. So what might be holding our congregation back? If you think your amount to pledge is insignificant, I will tell you that's not true. Every pledge is more than just a dollar amount. It's a commitment between you and your church, a part of your spiritual growth. Every pledge is part of your faith, your worship, who you are. And every dollar is important to Ark and Dove and adds up, as we are all in this together.
We have eight confirmands prepared to join Ark and Dove this Sunday June 2nd. That's a bumper crop! I hope they all read this, and that they prayerfully consider their role. Learning to give is a process, just like learning to do most things. We are finding out now more about the science behind mindset and positivity and the impact they have on our lives. I believe commitment is part of that too. Meditating and praying about generosity has helped me on my faith journey, and so I encourage you to consider your commitment, and your pledge. If you need more info, if you would like to talk about generosity and stewardship—in a judgement free zone—I would be happy to talk as would Pastor Tim and Pastor Jon. In gratitude for you and for Ark and Dove, Julia Kirby(maybe_soon98@yahoo.com)
|
|
Adult Christian Education
|
|
- Have you been impacted by gun violence in any way?
- How does the high cost of housing in AA Co. impact you or your family?
This Tuesday
,
June 4, 7:00 pm
(Ark and Dove room), the Mission Team will hold listening sessions to hear your stories. ACT, our interfaith organization of AA Co., is ready to act in a significant way on June 13. But first we need to hear from you! Please plan to attend! Questions? Cheryl Schafer (csscas@verizon.net)
|
|
|
|
The
Keirsey Temperament Sorter: team work makes the dream work. We have all heard that before. In the workplace, in church and in the community many of us work as part of a team. Ideally, in a team, everyone is able to contribute to something that becomes greater than the parts. The
Keirsey Temperament Sorter is one way to learn more about your personality and the personality of others around you to better understand each person’s unique gifts, what motivates them and in what situations they shine. Conversely it can help us understand situations that are difficult for certain personality types (our own included). Please come explore this topic with us next
Wednesday, June 5. Dinner will be served at 6:30 with discussion from 7:00 to 8:30. Childcare can be provided if requested. Sign up in the lobby or contact Steve Debus (steven.debus89@gmail.com).
|
|
|
|
The next Voyagers men's group event is a visit to the
Patuxent Wildlife Refuge's North Tract on
Saturday,
June 8. We will start at 8 am with breakfast at Panera Bread in east Laurel, then receive a short talk about the Refuge on site from our own Pat Devers, and explore the Refuge on a short hike. Please contact Paul Doughty (padough@verizon.net) with any questions.
|
|
Save the date for Parents' Group! Our Parents' fellowship group is open to all families with school aged children and will begin to meet regularly on LAST Fridays each month (
TONIGHT, Friday the 31st for May), from 6 to 8 pm in the Marshall room. Childcare provided for a small contribution. Come whenever you're available, and let's chat about parenting and get to know each other! Nicole Howe, Outreach and Connections Elder, nicolehowe123@gmail.com.
|
|
|
|
Vacation Bible School: Learning to Love Like Jesus
|
Registration is live
for Vacation Bible School, Monday, July 8, to Friday, July 12, 6:00-8:00 pm!
This summer's theme is:
Who Is My Neighbor?
Children in Pre-K (age 4-5) through grade 8 are invited to journey with us as we
learn to love like Jesus
!
Adults and high school students can join in the fun too by assisting with the children and youth programs or attending adult Vacation Bible School!
Register now!
|
|
|
|
Children's Book Drive: June 15 to August 1
|
We have a wonderful opportunity to help the families of women incarcerated at the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women at Jessup and their Correctional Officers. We are collecting new and like-new children's books for the residents to read and give to their children when they visit. As a support to the Officers, who are often single moms in a low-paying job, we are also providing books for their kids.
There will be a box in the south hallway, June 15 to August 1, for donations of new and like-new books for children age 2- 16. In selecting books please be mindful of the diversity of race and family configuration of many of the children who will be receiving our gifts of books. Thank you so much for your loving support of this ministry. If you have questions contact Caroline Price-Gibson (308-380-4699, cpricegibson@msn.com.
|
|
|
|
Friday June 7, 2019 6:30 p.m.
Screening of the film
The Hate U Give
at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis 333 Dubois Road Annapolis, MD. (PG-13) Free admission! Bring your family! Childcare is available. More info
here
. Facebook event
here
.
|
|
Salem County Habitat for Humanity: Young Adult and Youth
|
The older youth (16 and above) and young adult mission trip is scheduled for
August 4-9. This year we are traveling to Salem County Habitat for Humanity in southern New Jersey. Please register with Pastor Tim Timsstern@gmail.com or Don Ziegler donaldkziegler@gmail.com.
|
|
|
|
Featured item for June--MACARONI AND CHEESE. Please drop off food items in the Mission Zone bin. Thank you for your donations!
Thank you for your donations!
|
|
For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them. - Matthew 18:20
|
It takes many hands to keep our facilities and property in adequate condition to host the many group events each week. Do you enjoy working outdoors? We need a grounds team leader to coordinate the mowing schedule, and work with volunteers to do regular maintenance for our flower beds and rain garden. Do you have an interest in security? The newly formed Safety and Security Team needs a leader to help coordinate an analysis of the property and create a structure for the team. Do you want to help, but aren't sure where? All of the facilities teams could use more members. If any of these opportunities interest you, or you would simply like more information, please contact Rob Yeager, Facilities Elder, facilities@arkanddove.org.
|
|
|
|
At our church door this week!
Can anyone identify who this special visitor is?
and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form - Luke 3:22
|
|
The next meeting of the Healing through Grief small group will be on
Tuesday, June 11, 7 - 8:15 pm in the Ark and Dove Room. Anyone who has experienced the loss of a beloved family member or dear friend, no matter how recent or long ago, is invited to attend. No sign up needed, though it is appreciated. Drinks will be provided. The group is facilitated by Pastor Tim and Linnie Girdner. For more information, please contact Linnie Girdner at 410-999-7892 or girdnerlinda@gmail.com.
|
|
Reading as a Path Through Grief and Loss
|
When my first husband died, I reached out for my tried and true coping mechanism -- reading. That was before I "found religion," so at the time prayer didn't occur to me. I read about grief from the experts and I read the healing journeys detailed in memoirs.Reading definitely wasn't all I did, but I was grateful for how books helped me during a most difficult time. Last week the
New York Magazine published "16 Best Books about Grief, according to Psychologists" by Dominique Pariso. It includes an excellent array of books about grief for kids, teens and adults. I remember well Rando's
How to Go On Living When Someone You Love Dies and it clearly has stood the test of time. Over the years, after becoming a therapist, I have tried to keep up with the literature. Joan Didion's
The Year of Magical Thinking is an excellent memoir that is mentioned in the piece, but C.S. Lewis'
A Grief Observed should not be overlooked. Another favorite of mine more in a poetic vein is
The Cure for Sorrow: A Book of Blessings for Times of Grief by Jan Richardson.
Sometimes reading something completely different, such as fantasy or science fiction, can be a welcome respite from grief work. It is okay to escape now and then. If you find yourself always escaping, then it is time to turn back around.
Finally, reading is only one pathway through grief, and it is wise for it not to be the only one. Some other ways include journaling, listening to music, looking at old photos, creating a memory box, being with friends and family who can be present and listen, talking to your Deacon, seeking grief counseling, attending a grief group, and, of course, don't forget prayer.
Linnie Girdner, girdnerlinda@gmail.com
|
|
|
|
Please keep the following people in your prayers this week:
PRAYERS OF HEALING AND SUPPORT for Edie and Richard Budd; Dot Forloines; Kathy Miller; Kim Young's sister-in-law, Ruth Young; Wendy Wellington’s mother, Janet Morgan; Walt Kelly; Christy Yeager and her parents, Linda and Leon Jordan; Dorene Chen; Declan Steward’s father, Daryl; Lewis Shorter; the Forgrave family and Norma Forgrave’s son-in-law, Mike Fox; Bruce and Karen Sanders’ granddaughter, Hannah Algoet; Corinne Baker; Lori Kronser’s father Cliff Corn; Tameka Oberman’s grandmother; Nikol Sahai's mother, Marie Krizanova; Chris Wilkens; Pat Sise’s grandfather, Ed Sise and brother, Justin; Amy Tardiff’s father-in-law, Richard Tardiff; Margaret McGillivary’s friend, Kim Nolet; James Franklin’s father, Homer; Kameron and Kamarii Miller; Cheryl Walcutt’s mother and sister, Judy Walsh; Amanda Wehage’s family; Jon Nelson’s aunt, Linda, and grandmother, Peggy; Laura Doughty's aunt, Marie; Ylonda Fauntleroy's aunt, Bernice Taylor and friend Jawahn Clark; Brooks Emrick and her sister, Susan; Vaughn Brown and his sister, Kathie; Ann Hirschy; Frances Keyes; Helene Marchand-Stancil; Laura Willoughby's father, Norman; Julia Kirby's mother, Margaret Floyd; Steven Kirby; Greg and Diane Makar's cousin, Michael Makar; Amy Carskadon's nephew; Erika Sealing's son, Trip, and grandmother, Margaret Schade; Sue Hanburger and Sue's grandson, Enzo; Dotty Kaufmann's grandson, Nathan; Amy Benson's family and Amy’s friend, Brian Shriner; Lisa Mezaache’s friend, Pearl McNamara; Denise Grassel’s friends; the Winter family; David Michels; Thomas and Judy Kochis; and Doug Mattingly’s mother.
PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING AND PRAISE from the Saylor family: Carol and Henry Saylor are both feeling better.
PRAYERS OF LOVE, COMMUNITY AND GUIDANCE for those who are hospitalized, suffering from depression and suffering from addiction.
PRAYERS FOR EQUITY for those living in substandard housing and for those living in conflict.
PRAYERS FOR PEACE in the Middle East and for peace and understanding between the Palestinian and Israeli peoples.
If you have prayer concerns or blessings that you would like to share, please contact Deacon Patriceo Green at patriceobgreen@gmail.com and he will add your concern to the prayer partners email chain.
|
|
Ark and Dove Presbyterian Church | 410-674-6400 | admin@arkanddove.org |
www.arkanddove.org
| 8424 Piney Orchard Pkwy. Odenton, MD 21113
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
