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SUNDAY SCHEDULE 9:00 AM - Sunday School Classes for all ages - click here for more information  10:30 AM - Worship, Sanctuary THIS SUNDAY IN WORSHIP March 22, 2020   SCRIPTURE LESSON: John 9:1-41    MESSAGE: “Now I See”

 Contents :  This Week Online Giving  Upcoming Events Thank you Save the Date Notes from the Console   Last Week Contacting the Pastor

Happening This Week Let us worship together, in spirit and in truth! The recently-release Church of the Brethren Compelling Vision Statement calls for equipping disciples who are "innovative, adaptive, and fearless." I am struck by how applicable such a calling has become this past week. Our lives have been disrupted, and they will continue to be for the near future. Church cannot "gather" in person right now, but we stand eager to innovate and adapt as we are able - so that the good news of Christ continues to be shared and we can remain together. I encourage you all to carve out an hour on Sunday morning, at a comfortable place in your home, with Bible in hand, and partake of our weekly time of prayer, song, and message. As usual, a children's story is included as well! Simply click on the video below to enter a time of worship with all who will do likewise this weekend. Note that it is pre-recorded, not a live feed, so you may watch it any time you choose. This week we draw from John 9, the episode in which Jesus restores sight to a man who had been blind from birth. It is a fairly "dramatic" series of events, through which Christ reveals a great deal about us all. I hope it speaks to your life and faith, and I trust that it brings a sense of nearness among this church family as well. It is our intention to present such a worship time each week, led by a few who keep appropriate distancing practices in place. Special thanks to Mike, Pam, Michele, and Tim for making this possible. The video can be viewed at any time, and it will be made public on our facebook page as of 9:00 AM Sunday morning. Please feel free to comment and share it freely as you wish. I welcome your comments and responses! - Pastor Joel A second worship opportunity worth our attention is a message that will be given by Paul Mundey, current Moderator for the Church of the Brethren, and live-streamed from Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren this Sunday morning. It will be available to view anytime after 10:30 AM on Sunday. Find it here: https://www.etowncob.org/

Special Announcement concerning the COVID-19 pandemic and church operations, sent via email on Monday March 16, 2020, with a some more recent updates: It is with heavy hearts that we have announced a suspension of our gatherings for the near future due to the threat of contagious disease. At least for the remainder of March, and likely beyond, we will not gather here at our building on Sundays for worship together, and any other large group events are canceled or postponed until further notice. The Leadership Team and pastor are in ongoing conversation and will continue to monitor our operations going forward. Last week's message from worship can be viewed below or by clicking here. If you did not attend (a decision we commend), I encourage you to take time to listen to it. It speaks to our current situation and the matter of “social distancing” - which is generally not to be our way of life, but for the time being it must be. We have every intention of continuing to provide worship, teaching, and encouragement while maintaining “social distance” for the safety and well-being of all. The church office remains open during this time, even though no programs, services, or events are taking place. The pastor and secretary will be available and in the office most of the week, so please feel free to call or email as you wish. We discourage in-person visits, however. Visitation to nursing homes and hospitals has been severely restricted, and until we know just how widely this virus has spread pastoral visits will be minimal. We have several church members who have volunteered to assist any church members and friends who are in need at this time. If you are deliberately minimizing public contact and are in need of something, let us know and we can perhaps see that groceries or other essentials are delivered to your home. Please recognize that your church will require funds to continue basic operation of property and facility, fulfill pledged outreach giving, and maintain staff who will continue to minister whether in-person gatherings happen or not. Online giving is a simple and easy way to support your church and those it serves during this time, and it is accessible through our church website www.yorkfirst.org. Mailing your gifts and offerings to the church office is also welcome. Look for other announcements on our website and facebook page , and as always you may read current and/or recent newsletters through our website for other updates (and past sermons if you have spare time). Concerning the spread of COVID-19, here is a good resource with helpful links to other sites as well: http://www.brethren.org/bdm/covid-19.html Be careful to pay attention public health experts, rather than every headline or comment from your neighbor. We must act responsibly for the well-being of all, not merely ourselves. Thank you all for understanding and for your faithful participation in our life together. Stay apart from each other in body but close together in spirit. Take time to study, pray, and appreciate this time of rest that is before us. Talk to each other often, by phone especially. Stay home and do your part to "flatten the curve." Do not be afraid, yet be concerned for those who may suffer. The Lord bless you and keep you safe, with hearts eager to share the love of God. Joel Gibbel, Pastor York First Church of the Brethren

The following resources are available on the table in the Gathering Area:  March Church of the Brethren Newsline Digest 2020 Directory, please feel free to pick up a copy Lenten Devotional Guides - "Holy Manna"

Prayer Requests

Click for Friends to Remember in Prayer and Event Announcements

Although in-person worship gatherings and events are largely suspended for a time, the church's ministry continues in many important ways. Please continue to give as you are so led, whether by mail or through online giving. Thank you. Updates!  One Great Hour of Sharing and Meat Canning are available for donating at Online Giving. You can also schedule your pledge payment to the Capital Campaign weekly, monthly or as a one time gift.   OLG is easy and convenient. Sign up by going to our church website at: www.yorkfirst.org and click on the Online Giving Link or go directly to the Online Giving website at:  www.acionlinegiving.com/4706 . For assistance setting up your account, call Donor Support at:            800-348-2886 – Option 2 – Online Giving Questions? Contact Sheryl Leaman - Thank you for your support!!!!!

Church Website

Online Giving

Stations of the Cross: A Time for Reflection and Prayer March 30-April 10 During the 2 weeks prior to Easter, you will have an opportunity to focus on the experiences of Jesus Christ which led to his death and triumphant resurrection. The sanctuary will be set up with 14 "stations" where you can individually study visual images of Jesus, read scripture passages, and pause to pray and reflect as you walk the Way of the Cross.   The Sanctuary will be open for you from Monday, March 30 through Friday, April 10 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM to further your spiritual journey during this Lenten season. *** This event is safely in accordance with social distancing practices. It is to be experienced alone and at any time or day of your choosing within these two weeks. We believe it will be an appropriate and meaningful experience for all who visit. *** Spiritual Enrichment Team:  Barbara Jo Brown, Judy Yingling, Becky Wenger, Pastor Joel Gibbel

LOOKING FOR A FEW "FUN" 😊 PEOPLE! Do you enjoy helping at social events? First Church has different social events throughout the year, and help is needed to decorate, prepare food for set up, give ideas and just enjoy the camaraderie of those who attend. If this paints a picture of what you enjoy, then we need YOU on our Fellowship & Hospitality Team . Our committee holds 2- 3 events a year. Easter and Advent breakfast are two of the big events we share with the church by providing either a cooked or continental style breakfast for all members and visitors. Other events planned, but not definite, are a game day with snacks along with other events decided by the committee. We meet about 4 - 5 times a year to make decisions for events. If you feel you would like to join us for some fun on our team, we would love to have you.  Please email Dolly Furst for any other information or questions.

OUTREACH OPPORTUNITY A family of Ukrainian immigrants - the Burlaka family - has recently been resettled in our neighborhood through Church World Service - refugees fleeing persecution and close relatives to others whom our church has served in the past and who worship with us on occasion. They are in need of beds, clothes, towels, a small desk, and perhaps a used vehicle. Prospects for employment and housing are also need that they will have going forward, as well as transportation to ESL classes in the near future. If you have interest in helping or can donate items, please talk to John Anderson, Witness Team chairperson, or Pastor Joel. We have committed to helping this family and they deeply appreciate any support we can offer. Thank you.

Upcoming Events  *** All Events are subject to change given the current situation. Forthcoming newsletters will offer more information as it becomes available. ***

Soup Kitchen - Friday April 10, 2020 - Sign up in the Narthex to make a casserole or to work at the Soup Kitchen on Friday, April 10, 2020 (10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) PLEASE add your name and number of casseroles, to the SIGN-UP sheet, so we can let the Soup Kitchen know how many casseroles to expect.

MEAT CANNING PROJECT - Volunteer Today! 5 days - April 13,14,15,16, & 20 Processed at: Christian Aid Ministries, Ephrata, PA Sponsored by: Southern PA & Mid-Atlantic Districts COB • Help with canning and labeling, there are 2 shifts each day: 6:45 am to noon and 9:00 am to 2:30 pm • Sign-up early to secure your preferred day and time. Volunteers are also needed to provide meals or finances to help cover the cost of meals. Sign up sheets are located in the lobby.  If you have any questions, please contact John Anderson. 

Southern PA District COB 2020 District Women's Spring Luncheon Sat., April 25, 2020, 9:00 am . Held at Hanover Church of the Brethren, 601 Wilson Ave., Hanover, PA 17331. Isiah 43: 18-19 God is Doing a New Thing! ~ Session One will focus on what God is doing to revitalize, renew, restore, redeem and renovate ME. Session Two will focus on celebrating the ways God is renewing the CHURCH. Featured Speaker: Leah J. Hileman Brochure/Registration Form is posted on the bulletin board. Registration deadline: April 15th

OWLS NEWS 2020 Decisions, Decisions, Decisions - Well, the decisions have been made, and it was decided that the OWLS will be meeting THE LAST MONTH OF EACH QUARTER, STARTING THIS JUNE.   All gatherings are the second Thursday of the month at noon in the Homebuilder’s classroom unless otherwise announced. The 2020 schedule (subject to change) **We will not be meeting in March June 11 - Indoor Picnic and BINGO.          Burgers provided. Bring a side dish. Also bring an inexpensive, wrapped BINGO prize. September 10 – Gather with the folks at New Fairview.          We will car-pool from church – The time to be announced later.  Program to be announced. December 10 – Christmas Luncheon.          Bring food dishes to share.          Program – “Christmas Customs” presented by Andrea Adams. Sign-up sheets will be posted, and updated announcements made closer to the scheduled gathering dates.

Thank you to everyone for your prayers, cards, and concerns during Peg's illness and passing. It was greatly appreciated. - The Jay Crist Family I want to thank everyone for the many cards, thoughts, and prayers on my wife, Ruby's, passing. Your concerns are much appreciated. - Brad Nicholas To My Church Family, You all helped to make my surprise 80 th Birthday a really big surprise! Jodi and Jeff did a super job of disguising it and you all were so much a part. I love you all and the cards, notes, visits made a very reminiscent evening. Friends from cradle nursery long before we knew we would grow up treasured friends, grade school, Jr. High, and the six girlfriends forever from William Penn High School, nursing school friends, Central church family friends forever, seminary friends, neighbors and grandchildren and Gavin to be born in May. Who could ask for more blessings than this. Much love, hugs, and thank you again, Judy Yingling Stay safe and a virtual hug to all!

Save the Date

EASTER EGG HUNT, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 *** This event may be suspended or rescheduled ***

2020 CHURCH PHOTO DIRECTORY *** It is likely that this will be postponed. Nevertheless, save the date for now. ***  Save the dates April 27-28 (Mon-Tues) for professional photography sessions here at the church - all free of charge unless you want to order multiple prints - in preparation for a new photo directory to include all active members and friends of the church. Registration details will be coming soon - including a simple online reservation process and ability sign up in person. Please mark your calendars today! Several volunteers will be needed to coordinate registration and serve as hosts on the dates of photo sessions. Please reach out to Pastor Joel pastor@yorkfirst.org if you are interested and willing. Thank you!

CELEBRATION LUNCH - SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2020 The York First CoB Capital Campaign would like to invite you to the Celebration Lunch on Sunday, May 17 th immediately following the morning service. More information to follow.

Vacation Bible School at York First CoB Sunday, June 14 - Thursday, June 18 Plan NOW to be a part of this wonderful week together! More details in the months to follow

SUGGESTIONS FROM THE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN STEERING COMMITTEE “Catch the Spirit, Build for the Future” has been chosen as the theme for our Capital Fund Campaign. Campaign visits are ongoing, and we hope you will prayerfully consider making a pledge to support our church's future. As the campaign advances, we want to share with you two tax saving options that may be available to you as you consider your pledge to the campaign. These options are qualified charitable distributions and donation of appreciated securities. Qualified Charitable Distribution If you are age 70½ or older, IRS rules require you to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) each year from your tax-deferred IRA’s. This additional taxable income may push you into a higher tax bracket and may also reduce your eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. For example, your taxable income helps determine the amount of your Social Security benefits that are subject to taxes. Keeping your taxable income level lower may also help reduce your potential exposure to higher Medicare premiums. To eliminate or reduce the impact of RMD income, you may want to consider making a qualified charitable distribution (QCD). A QCD is a direct transfer of funds from an IRA custodian, payable to a qualified charity. Amounts distributed as a QCD can be counted toward satisfying your RMD for the year and can also be excluded from your taxable income. This is not the case with a regular withdrawal from an IRA, even if you use the money to make a charitable contribution later on. In this scenario, the withdrawal would be counted as taxable income. You must be at least 70½ years old at the time you request a QCD. If you process a distribution prior to reaching age 70½, the distribution will be treated as taxable income. Funds must be transferred directly from your IRA custodian to the qualified charity. This is accomplished by requesting your IRA custodian issue a check from your IRA payable to the charity. You can then request that the check be mailed to the charity, or forward the check to the charity yourself. Donation of Appreciated Securities With the stock market setting all-time record highs, many investors are holding securities in their taxable accounts that have appreciated in value. Appreciated securities are investments that have increased in value from the time they were purchased, and can take the form of publicly traded stock, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), closely held stock, or mutual funds. For example, if a stock was purchased for $30 per share and sold for $50 per share, the stock has appreciated by $20 per share. When appreciated stock is sold, the owner generally realizes capital gains equal to the appreciation and may be liable for either short-term or long-term capital gains taxes. With a charitable gift of appreciated securities, the donation you make and the deduction you get are greater than they would be if you were to sell the shares and donate the cash proceeds instead. That is because when you donate shares, you avoid paying the capital gains tax. The church will receive the full market value of the securities donated. We encourage you to take advantage of these tax saving measures as you consider giving.

"Notes from the Console," Article 35, By Mike Frock   My show that I promoted in the last article, “Songs for a New World,” has been indefinitely postponed. There is some talk about rescheduling it or airing it on Cable Access TV, so I will keep you updated when I find out more. On Wednesday night, we recorded this week’s church service. The Prelude is "Chorale Prelude on ‘Adorn Yourself, O Dear Soul’" by Johannes Brahms. The Postlude is ‘Fling Wide the Gates’ from “The Crucifixion” by John Stainer/Freely arranged by Roger C. Wilson. “Fling Wide the Gates” comes from the part of “The Crucifixion” called “Processional to Calvary.” It is based on Psalm 24:7-8 “Fling wide the gates, open the ancient doors, and the great king will come in. Who is this great king? He is the Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, victorious in battle.”   John Stainer (1840-1901) was an English composer, organist, and choirmaster. Born in London, he was a young virtuoso organist who had perfect pitch. He was a contemporary and friend of the composer Arthur Sullivan from an early age. At age 16, he became organist at St. Michael’s College. Four years later he became organist at Magdalen College (a part of Oxford University). While there he earned his BA, MA, and Mus Doc degrees through Oxford University. In 1872 he became organist at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, and it was under his tenure that this Cathedral became the focus of religious life in the capital city. During the next 20 years he held many posts and received many honors, including becoming the Musical Director of the Madrigal Society of London. Due to loss of eyesight and other health concerns, he retired from the Cathedral organist position in 1888. The next year, in 1889, he became a Professor of Music at Oxford University. Stainer died in 1901.   Despite being a virtuoso organist, Stainer is remembered for his contributions to the singing world. He wrote many anthems, hymns, oratorios, carols, as well as publishing some music-related books about theory, history, etc. His most famous work became “The Crucifixion” composed in 1887 or 1888. He is also remembered for his arrangements of Christmas carols which became the standard arrangements including “The First Noel,” “What Child Is This,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” “Good King Wenceslas,” and “I Saw Three Ships.” He also wrote arrangements of “Good Christian Men Rejoice” and “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling.”

LAST SUNDAY IN WORSHIP

Scripture Lesson: John 4:1-29,39-41   Message:   “Living Water” Worship Attendance: 62

CONTACTING THE PASTOR Pastor Joel Gibbel can be reached most mornings in the church office Monday - Thursday from 9:00 AM to noon. Afternoons and evenings are often set aside for visiting those in need, for meetings, and for other pastoral duties. Pastor Joel is also available for Pastoral Counseling by appointment.

If you need to reach the pastor outside of office hours, his home phone number is (717)318-5442, and his cell number is (717)271-4888 . You can also email him at pastor@yorkfirst.org. Note that laws prevent hospitals from contacting a pastor without your permission when you are admitted, so you will need to let hospital staff know that you would like the hospital to contact your pastor.

Our Mission Statement: “People dedicated to Spiritual Growth, Loving Relationship, and Sacrificial Service” Our Vision Statement: “To become a community of committed Christians who Love God, Share Christ, and Serve the World”