NEWSLETTER
Thursday, March 31, 2022
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Countdown to Holy Week
Just prior to The Week that Was, Jesus and his disciples gathered on a mountain top. There the revelation of his glory was in a magical moment of light, known as The Transfiguration. This event mirrored his baptism, as they both were moments that defined his life. Following the experience, he turned his face to Jerusalem, where he was to carry the light to his people there. His week there was filled with high moments such as a grand welcome with people shouting, “Hosanna in the highest!” (literally “Save us!”), as well as the lowest moment of his life, his betrayal and subsequent execution, extinguishing the light.
We have chosen as the theme for Holy Week “Light in the Time of Darkness.” Such was Jesus’ last week in Jerusalem; such is the present world in which we are living. We will host noon luncheons with a brief meditation on this theme each weekday starting at 12 noon and finishing by 12: 40 or so to allow folks to return to work on time. The leaders will be Deborah Chandler, D. H. Clark, Darrell Cluck, Al Peterson, and Mark Windham. A light luncheon will be served by Bobbye Legan and the Hospitality Commission.
We will have our Maundy Thursday Communion Service at 6 on the 14th. The current plan is a seated at the table communion. This will be called In Remembrance. We will share the meal and sit and remember. This service will be 30 to 40 minutes in length. It will be preceded, weather permitting, by wine and water in the Columbarium at 5, a time of fellowship and reflection upon the saints of Northminster.
Good Friday’s service will be a performance of John Rutter’s beautiful work, Requiem by the Chancel Choir, Dr. Chandler conduction accompanied by a small instrumental ensemble. The work is structured into seven movements. The service will follow the order of the Service of Tenebrae with the extinguishing of the seven candles, one for each movement. This is a reflection and reminder of the extinguishing of the Light that occurred on Golgatha. Guided silent meditations will be provided in the program. Because of the nature of the program, we will not have the traditional stripping of the altar this year.
Of course, the “Day that the Lord has Made” will be celebrated on Easter Sunday at 10:45. We will celebrate the Resurrection of the Light, and welcome the return of the “Alleluias!” and the usual fanfares.
Welcome to the Countdown.
Peace (and we all really mean it)
D H
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Join us for Worship
Sunday April 3, 2022
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Rev. Dr. Deborah Chandler preaches
"Thank You, Mary"
Click the photo to view our Sunday service
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April 3, 2022
The Opening Hymn: God Is Here! As We Your People Meet
Rev. Fred Pratt Green (1903-2000), was a British Methodist minister and hymn writer. He also published plays, translations and poems. Serving many congregations over his career, he aalso received an honorary doctorate from Emory University in Atlanta. This hymn is set to the tune, ABBOTT’S LEIGH composed by Cyril V. Taylor, 1941.
The Anthem: Lord of the Small
Dan Forrest wrote and dedicated this anthem to the Glory of God and in loving memory of Erin Buenger, (1997-2009). Erin was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at the age of five. She
went through many treatments and surgeries over the next seven years. Never losing hope, she sang in choir, took j horseback riding lessons and even met on Capital Hill to speak for the Children’s Cancer Foundation. Forrest writes of Erin “Some flames burn long yet dim. Others burn quickly but, in spite of their brevity, burn all the more brightly. May we all live as Erin did: to the Glory of God.”
The Gospel Acclamation
We continue to announce the Gospel reading during the season of Lent, with the words "Our bodies, souls and minds need your word as we journey through the wilderness."....May it be that we hear the word of God and live by it.
The Sermon Response: Send Judas to Mary
Sydney Carter, a schoolteacher, journalist, and songwriter set the text from John 12:1-8. This is hymn imagines the dialogue between Judas Iscariot, Mary of Bethany and Jesus. Carter
wrote this hymn and tune in 1964.
The Communion Meditation: Give Me Jesus
Preston Anderson, one of our choral scholar’s, will offer this beautiful spiritual arranged by the late Louisiana composer, Moses Hogan.
The Closing Hymn: For the Healing of the Nations
Fred Kaan’s most widely published text was first sung at Pilgrim Church in Plymouth, England, at a service of worship marking Human Rights Day in 1965.This hymn was also used For the twenty-fifth anniversary of the United Nations. Set to the tune, WESTMINSTER ABBEY By English composer Henry Purcell c. 1680.
I look forward to Sunday, Debi
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The Prayers of the People |
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We pray alongside.....
The oppression and suffering of the innocents in war torn countries.
Our Pastor Search Committee as they continue our search for our next pastor
Those with unspoken prayer requests
Janet Dawson, at home recovering from surgery
Judy Eddington, dealing with a serious medical condition.
Lola Wheeler recovering from an ankle replacement surgery.
DH Clark's cousin's wife, Monssarat - acute illness.
Our Brothers and Sisters in Cuba experiencing severe economic hardships, food shortages, and lack of medical equipment to administer Covid-19 vaccines.
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The Celebrations of the People |
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I apologize for the incorrect birthday announcements. Bobbye Legan is the only one I got correct on April 1. Then I jumped over to February! So here I go again, trying to get it right! Thanks for your understanding, Renee.
We celebrate alongside.....
Bobbye Legan (1st), Paul Brannon (2nd), Ingrid Gray (3rd), Tim Jaquess (3rd), Robert McCandlish (5th), William McCandlish (5th), and Arturo Rodriguez (7th), as they celebrates their birthdays.
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If you would like to share something in the newsletter, please call the church office or email office@northmin.org.
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April Mission Trunk Emphasis:
The Food Bank of NELA
Needs: Peanut Butter (plastic jars only), Beans (dry or canned), Canned Meats/Seafood (tuna, salmon, chicken, ham), Meals in a box/can (chili, mac & cheese, stew), Rice and Pasta (box or bag), Boxed Cereal, Canned fruits and vegetables, Canned soups, Pop-Top food items (spaghetti-o’s, soups) . PLEASE NO GLASS CONTAINERS. Other needs: Paper products (toilet paper, paper towels), Personal care items (deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, bath soap).
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Upcoming Easter Activities |
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SUNDAY, APRIL 10
PALM SUNDAY, LUNCHEON, AND EASTER EGG HUNT
All Children and the Parents are invited to join in Northminster's Annual Palm Sunday Luncheon and Easter Egg Hunt on the church lawn following the worship service. The children will also lead the morning procesional into the sanctuary by waving the palm leaves as the choir enters. CONTACT BETH MAYFIELD at beth@mayfieldconstruction.net or 348-2529,
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PLASTIC EGGS AND CANDY FILLERS NEEDED BEFORE PALM SUNDAY!
The church needs donations of empty plastic Easter Eggs, along with candy treats our workers can place into them so that the Easter Bunny can hide them for the children! A basket will be present in the Narthex for your donations.
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HOLY WEEK LUNCH MEDITATIONS
"Light in a Dark Time" is our theme for this year's Holy Week Lunch Meditations. Join us from noon until 1pm as we gather for food, fellowship and meditation. The Hospitality Commission will be spearheading the food and if you would like to help, please contact Bobbye Legan at 398-0103 or 267-1900.
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MAUNDY THURSDAY
On Thursday, April 14 at 5pm we will gather in the Memorial Garden's of the Columbarium for Wine & Water followed by a Maundy Thursday service in the sanctuary at 6pm. Should there be inclement weather, Wine & Water will not take place.
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GOOD FRIDAY
On Friday, April 15 at 7pm the Northminster Choir and Friends will present John Rutter's Requiem as we recognize Good Friday.
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Youth Assistance Needed
Once again Northminster Youth have begun meeting each Sunday at 5pm and this effort is lead by Beth Mayfield. The group has many exciting plans upcoming along with Baptist Youth Camp July 3-8. Beth is requesting help with leading and guiding the youth as they transition to adulthood. If you think this is a ministry you could add to, please contact Beth Mayfield at beth@mayfieldconstruction.net or her phone 348-2529.
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Northminster Book Club
Our next book is, Conjure Women by Afia Atakora. Book Club will meet Thursday, May 12 at 6pm at the home of Debi Chandler, 2005 Stuart Ave., Monroe for potluck and discussion. If you would like to join the Book Club, contact Debi at chandler@ulm.edu
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Northminster COVID Guidelines
We continue to follow state and CDC guidelines and accordingly recommend that if you are at high risk for severe illness - talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need to wear a mask and take other precautions; stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines; and get tested if you have symptoms. The Coordinating Council recommends that immune compromised and unvaccinated individuals, and anyone experiencing cold or other illness symptoms continue to wear masks during our services.
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Alliance Annual Business Meeting
The annual meeting of the Alliance of Baptists is a place and time where your presence and voice help give shape and form to the future of our movement for God’s justice and love! Again this year, the meeting will take place on Zoom two weeks before the Annual Gathering.
This year's virtual meeting will be held Saturday, April 9, 2 - 5p EDT. Registration is now open!
We will hear from the nominating committee. We will hear from our board of directors about the state of the Alliance. You will be invited to join new initiatives and share your voice! This is a chance for you to join the collective voice of the Alliance as we shape the future of our movement together!
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Come learn about the Alliance!
Come join your voices with others
in prophetic witness to God’s justice in the world!
Come and engage with others who share your commitment
to the embodiment of God’s justice and love!
d time only" or "only 7 remaining!"
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The 2022 Alliance Annual Gathering
A Virtual Experience
April 22-24, 2022
On Jan. 31, the Alliance announced that the 2022 Annual Gathering will be held 100% virtually. To read more about this decision, click here.
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About the Gathering Theme
For a thousand years, western Christianity has seen the cross through the lens of substitutionary atonement—that Jesus died in our place and reconciled sinful humanity to God. The Annual Gathering seeks to re-examine this theology and explore new atonement ideas through panels, workshops, and worship. The gathering is also an opportunity to enjoy a weekend of rejuvenating fellowship with like-minded followers of the way of Christ.
The planning team is still finalizing changes to the schedule which will be made public soon. Continue to check the website for the most up-to-date information.
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Given to the Glory of God
During the Lenten season the alter remains shrouded with no floral arrangement. Upon the arrival of Easter and the Eastertide season, the flowers will once again grace our altar.
If you would like to give flowers in memory or in honor of someone, please contact the church office. Approximate cost is $100.
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Upcoming Events
This Sunday
9:00 am - Choir Practice
10:00 am - Sunday School for Children (K-5),
Youth, and Adults
10:45 am - Preludes
11:00 am - Sunday Morning Liturgy
5:00 pm - Youth
Wednesdays
6:30 pm - Choir practice
Extra Choir Rehearsal and Performance:
Wednesday April 13 at 6:45 Dress Rehearsal
Thursday, April 14 at 6:45 Dress Rehearsal
Friday, April 15 at 7pm John Rutter's Requiem
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Pulpit Supply Schedule
April
3 - Dr. Debi Chandler
10 - Rev. James Lamkin
17 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
24 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
May
1 - Dr. Carl Gregg
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VAPA presents “She Loves Me” musical at Brown Auditorium March 31-April 3
WHAT: VAPA’s “She Loves Me” musical
WHEN: 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 31; Friday, April 1, Saturday, April 2; 2 p.m., Sunday, April 3
WHERE: Brown Auditorium
COST: Free for ULM students with ID, $5 for ULM staff and faculty, $15 for general admission, tickets at Eventbrite
INFO: VAPA, 318-342-3811
“She Loves Me” is a musical with a book by Joe Masteroff, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and music by Jerry Bock. The plot revolves around Budapest shop employees Georg Nowack and Amalia Balash who, despite being consistently at odds with each other at work, are unaware that each is the other's secret pen pal met through lonely-hearts ads.
The ULM production staff includes director Justin Havard; music director Deborah Chandler, Ph.D.; technical director Steven Burnside; costumer Margaret Hall; stage manager Cherie Mialaret; and producer Derle Long, Ph.D., director of the School of Visual and Performing Arts.
Cast as principal characters include: Amalia Balash – Leslie Hobgood, Jenny Smith; Ilona Ritter – Leann Hammons; Head Waiter – Reagan Dukes; Arpad Laszlo – Keagan Jones; Mr. Maraczek – Westly Heflin; Mr. Keller/Customer/Caroler – Harper Innis; Georg Nowack – Brandon Hale, James Wright; Steven Kodaly – Preston Anderson; Ladislov Sipos – Nathan Newsom; and Ensemble/Customers/Clerks – Delaney Morgan, Naomi Kilpatrick, Sarah Talmage, Abigail McClung, Elise McCullough, and Mallory Spradling.
The dance ensemble includes: Gabriela Picón Barrios, Maria Picón Barrios, Kayli Bowman, Naomi Kilpatrick, Elise McCullough, Delaney Morgan, and Sarah Talmage.
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Snyder Museum Brown Bag Lunch Series
The Snyder Museum in Bastrop is hosting a Brown Bag Lunch Series on Friday, April 1 from noon until 1pm. with Barrett Pepper and Chad Thomas providing musical entertainment. Southern Smoke Slingers will be on site with $5 chicken salad sandwich plates. Bring your picnic blankets and chairs. This is a free concert but are asking donations of discarded eye glasses to use for teh Lions Club Eye Foundation and discussion.
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The Masur Museum of Art:
Off the Wall Call For Art
The 13th Annual Off the Wall Fundraiser hosted by the Twin City Foundation to benefit the Masur Museum of Art will be held Friday, April 8 from 6-9pm. The museum is located at 1400 S. Grand St., Monroe. $50 per person.
Artist Packet Submission Deadline is April 4 at 5pm. Artwork Drop-offs accepted April 4-6
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Northminster Choral Scholar presents Senior Vocal Recital
Evelynn Duval, who is one of our choral scholars will present her senior vocal recital at ULM on Sunday, April 10 at 4 PM in Biedenharn Recital Hall on the ULM campus. Part of her program will be pieces composed for her by D H Clark. She will be accompanied by Dr. Richard Seiler. The public is invited.
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If you have found a space of community, or healing, or hope at Northminster and believe in the work we are doing, please consider supporting us financially so that we will be able to continue creating spaces like this in all the days to come.
To support Northminster financially, you can click here, or scan the QR code with the camera on your phone.
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Northminster Church is located at:
2701 Lamy Lane
Monroe, LA 71201
318-388-3717
office@northmin.org
Temporary Church Office Hours:
Tues -Thurs 9am to 4 pm
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