October 1, 2021

Posted on by

Sunday October 3, 2021

10:00 am Worship service at the park to celebrate, as one church, World Communion Sunday.

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING WORSHIP TIMES

Beginning October 17th both services will be held indoors.

9:00 am Traditional in the sanctuary.

10:00 am Sunday school.

11:00 am Contemporary in the Family Life Center.

COVID19 Protocol Update

Because Franklin county has moved into the High category of COVID transmission, First Church leadership asks that congregants wear masks while inside the building per CDC recommendation. This is recommended NOT mandated. We understand that individuals have varied feelings on masks.

We are also again encouraging social distancing in the sanctuary and in the FLC.

Please see Bishop Park's announcement.

From our York District Superintendent, Rev. Cathy Boileau:

On Wednesday, October 6th, at 6:00 p.m., I will be hosting a zoom chat with Dr. Jim Hurley, who is a member of First UMC in Chambersburg, but also Chairperson of the Board of Health for the Chambersburg Borough, a professor at Wilson College, a well-respected surgeon, and a committed disciple of Jesus Christ. Dr. Hurley will be sharing about immunology and the creation of the vaccine, how it came to be, put to rest some of the myths about the vaccine, and share information about why we should be tuned in to the Delta strain. If you or someone you love needs good solid information about vaccines, practices at church, or other information on covid, please encourage them to join us. We will be closing the meeting with a time of prayer for our health professionals and the defeat of covid. Anyone is welcome. Here is the link.

Meeting ID: 873 2160 5853
Dial by your location +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

Let us lift up our healthcare workers in prayer, find practical ways to encourage, and most importantly, find a way to lessen the spread of covid, so we might give our frontline workers what they most want, rest for body, soul and spirit, and not another life lost to covid.

Grace and peace,

Cathy

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Worship Bulletins for kids to engage them with the service are available at the welcome tables.

'Fear Not!' October Schedule is HERE!

This month Ms. Brianna is challenging kids to read their Bible! If they complete the challenge and return it, Ms. Brianna will kiss a worm( One kiss for ever challenge returned.)  at our end of month 'Fear is Not a Factor' Party or during a special 'Not so Spooky' Halloween Sunday School.

Go HERE to get your 'Fear Not' Bible Reading Challenge!

 

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry will be meeting in backyards this September on Wednesday nights. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

Sponsors are Needed for Haitian children at Kaendra's Place orphanage and School of Hope. Talk to Pastor Steve or mail haiti4fumc@gmail.com for more information.

Cookie Dough and Coffee Sale to support FUMC Haiti missions in Petit Goave, Haiti has begun! Order forms are available along with purchase envelopes at the worship entrances and lobby. Envelopes can be placed in the offering plates or dropped in the box at the Welcome Center. Orders are due by Sunday, October 31st. Pick up for orders will be Saturday, November 20th.

Pastoral Care Ministries
LISTEN!!
That's what Stephen Ministers DO! They have gone through 50 hours of training in providing Christian care so that they can focus on your needs and listen to what you really have to say. They will walk with you and watch God work in you! Don't wait! Contact Gail for additional information

GriefShare group meets Mondays at 1:00 PM. For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Our annual Women’s Retreat is October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration Deadline is today - October 1, 2021. Registration Form can be downloaded below:

You are invited to attend a welcoming event for our new Bishops.

Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi & Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball began Episcopal oversight of the Susquehanna Conference September 1. Both Bishops are excited to begin this new assignment. For the Bishops to begin to become acquainted with the Susquehanna Conference and our seven districts. All clergy and laity are invited to attend one of the district gatherings. Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi will be in person at York District’s gathering on October 3rd at 3:00 PM at Messiah Church, 1300 North Beaver Street, York.

These gatherings will not be livestreamed. However, there will be a video of the gathering on the website after all have concluded.
Because of the increase in the COVID variant, all participants will be expected to wear masks and social distance as much as possible.

To register for this or another of the gatherings please go here.

Here is the schedule of locations and dates. If you cannot attend your district’s gathering, feel free to register to attend another one, but the York gathering is October 3.

These district gatherings plan to be a wonderful introduction to the Susquehanna Conference for our bishops. Please plan to attend.

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Important Note regarding upcoming events:

If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Chancel Choir-Practice is held Wednesday nights at 7:00. All singers welcomed! Contact Diaconal Minister Linda Peppernick at lindapeppernick@embarqmail.com

Post-High School Connections - First Church Friends: I am looking for people to connect with our post high age young adults. Check-in texts, notes, and emails are a great way to let them know they're a part of the family even when they may not be able to attend regularly. If you're willing to friend one of our post high young adults, please contact Beth Stahl (stahlfamily2000@gmail.com or 717-375-8011).

200th Anniversary – 2022 will mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of First Church.  We are looking for interested individuals to be part of the committee planning our celebrations. Please contact Pastor Steve at pastor4fumc@gmail.com if you would like to help.

Evening Bible Studies:

Intergenerational Study -Interested in making connections between faith and real life?  In building intergenerational relationships within the church?  Consider joining this discussion-based Bible study at 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of every month. Study is designed for youth Grade 7 or higher in the company of their parents. All adults welcome!

“Wednesday Bible Study” @ 6:30 PM, Begins September 22nd and every Wednesday after in the Preschool Classroom (Apple Place). We will be studying the book of Jeremiah.  Jeremiah lived and wrote in a dark time. Studying the ministry of the prophet Jeremiah, you will get a glimpse of what it is like to have a personal relationship with God, for God and a human to be together and you will discover how you can grow in your own personal relationship to God.  This study will also stream on Zoom.  Study guides are available to pick up at the Welcome Center or you can download a copy here.

 If you are interested in taking a Stop the Bleed Class please sign up HERE! It will be held October 12 at 6pm.

Veterans Meeting on Tuesday October 12 at 6:30p.m. in the Alda Bowers room.

Blood Drive Monday, October 4,  beginning at 2pm in the FLC.

Homecoming is October 6th.  Currently, the parade is scheduled for 6:00 PM.  You are invited to view the parade from the parsonage front lawn at 925 East McKinley Street.

Elevator Update The trustees have signed a contract with Eastern Elevator Company to begin repair work on the elevator.  More information will be forthcoming as soon as it is available.

First UMC Church Conference Sunday, November 21st at 5:00 PM. Our District Superintendent will be with us to conduct the meeting. Please mark your calendars and plan on attending.

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22 (KJV)

We lift our prayers to the Lord!

Comfort for Beverly Rensch's family as she has entered the Church Triumphant

Healing prayers for Rev. Charlie Kind. He is in the hospital. Prayers for his family as well.

Healing for Blanche Mock - Chambersburg Hospital

Healing prayers for Ginny Adams

Healing prayers for Matthew very ill

Continue praying for the people of Haiti & Afghanistan

Pray for our government leaders

Prayers for Norine Selby (Glenn & Natalie Aylesworth’s daughter)

Betty Naugle – healing

Pray for those who are coming to GriefShare

Pray for those dealing with fire in the west

Pray for water shortage in the west

Pray for Stephen Ministry

Continued prayers for Postal Service

Healing for those with Covid

Safety and protection for school children and those working in school systems

Healing prayer for Jeff Brookens – medical concerns

Pray for the Women's Retreat in October - those planning the retreat and the ladies attending

Pray for First Lights -Connecting the light of the church to the heart of families to ignite the faith of the next generation

Pray for Illuminate Youth Ministry

Pray for Hungry Hearts Ministry

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

John & Bunny Parson
Larry & Avis Guise
Al & Linda Lojacono
Jay & Betty Upperman
Bill & Mary Butts
Jack & Bette Bowers
Dean & Carol Crow
Paul & Erma Collins
Bill & Thelma Peerce
Kirk & Kathy Paul
Chuck & Dianne Salter
Dave & Joan Kauffman

Praise and Thanksgiving

On World Communion Sunday, whether under the shade of a tree, in a rice paddy, by a creek bed, in a grand cathedral, or in storefronts, Christ-followers all over the planet are praying and singing in indigenous ways using their languages. What a glorious picture of worship in the kingdom when we grasp the fullness of the body of Christ and sing and pray with brothers and sisters around the world. Praise the Lord!

The entire congregation is invited to join children and youth ministries at Mt. Asbury Retreat center this fall to help prepare for the Christmas Light Show!

If you are interested in finding out more, click Here.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

September 24, 2021

Posted on by

Sunday September 26, 2021

9:00am - Worship at Memorial Park Bandshell

10:00am - Sunday School

11am - Traditional service in sanctuary

COVID19 Protocol Update

Because Franklin county has moved into the High category of COVID transmission, First Church leadership asks that congregants wear masks while inside the building per CDC recommendation. This is recommended NOT mandated. We understand that individuals have varied feelings on masks.

We are also again encouraging social distancing in the sanctuary and in the FLC.

Please see Bishop Park's announcement.

From our York District Superintendent, Rev. Cathy Boileau:

On Wednesday, October 6th, at 6:00 p.m., I will be hosting a zoom chat with Dr. Jim Hurley, who is a member of First UMC in Chambersburg, but also Chairperson of the Board of Health for the Chambersburg Borough, a professor at Wilson College, a well-respected surgeon, and a committed disciple of Jesus Christ. Dr. Hurley will be sharing about immunology and the creation of the vaccine, how it came to be, put to rest some of the myths about the vaccine, and share information about why we should be tuned in to the Delta strain. If you or someone you love needs good solid information about vaccines, practices at church, or other information on covid, please encourage them to join us. We will be closing the meeting with a time of prayer for our health professionals and the defeat of covid. Anyone is welcome. Here is the link.

Meeting ID: 873 2160 5853
Dial by your location +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

Let us lift up our healthcare workers in prayer, find practical ways to encourage, and most importantly, find a way to lessen the spread of covid, so we might give our frontline workers what they most want, rest for body, soul and spirit, and not another life lost to covid.

Grace and peace,

Cathy

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

In Traditional Worship:

Pastor - Steven M. Livermore
Organist/Choir Director- Diaconal Minister of Music: Linda A. Peppernick
Reader—Bob Foor

Today’s Flowers are placed this morning to the glory of God and in memory of my husband Bill, sister Helen Shoemaker and nephew Larry Shoemaker. In honor of my daughter and son-in-law Cheryl and Ed Houser, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren by Delores Roher.

 

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Worship Bulletins for kids to engage them with the service are available at the welcome tables.

'Fear Not!' October Schedule coming soon!

 

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry will be meeting in backyards this September on Wednesday nights. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

Please remember the needs of the orphans whom we support year-round.  If you would like to support the work of constructing the new orphanage, please write your check out to “FUMC Haiti Mission” and write “Orphanage Construction” in the memo.  School of Hope scholarships begin again in September.

Haitian Earth Quake - UMCOR - United Methodist Committee On Relief is working with partners in Haiti on how to best meet the immediate needs of survivors following last Saturday’s devastating earthquake.  You can help by making a gift to the work of international disaster response by going on line here: https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450/ or by writing a check to “First UMC” and writing “Haiti Quake Relief” in the memo or using an envelope and addressing it “Haiti Quake Relief” and put it in the offering plate.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Show Them You Care! When you see people who are sad, lonely, or grief-stricken, don't just tell them you care! SHOW THEM! Ask how they are, listen to what they have to say, share the love of Jesus. And if their need is great, encourage them to consider Stephen Ministry as a way to receive the transforming love and care of Jesus. Show them you care, and you can make a real difference in their life.  Then suggest they contact Gail at 717 263-8491 who will be able to help find a Stephen Minister to walk with them.

GriefShare group meets Mondays at 1:00 PM. For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207.

 

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Mark your calendars now for our annual Women’s Retreat that will be held on October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration Form can be downloaded below:

You are invited to attend a welcoming event for our new Bishops.

Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi & Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball began Episcopal oversight of the Susquehanna Conference September 1. Both Bishops are excited to begin this new assignment. For the Bishops to begin to become acquainted with the Susquehanna Conference and our seven districts. All clergy and laity are invited to attend one of the district gatherings. Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi will be in person at York District’s gathering on October 3rd at 3:00 PM at Messiah Church, 1300 North Beaver Street, York.

These gatherings will not be livestreamed. However, there will be a video of the gathering on the website after all have concluded.
Because of the increase in the COVID variant, all participants will be expected to wear masks and social distance as much as possible.

To register for this or another of the gatherings please go here.

Here is the schedule of locations and dates. If you cannot attend your district’s gathering, feel free to register to attend another one, but the York gathering is October 3.

These district gatherings plan to be a wonderful introduction to the Susquehanna Conference for our bishops. Please plan to attend.

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Important Note regarding upcoming events:

If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Chancel Choir-Practice is held Wednesday nights at 7:00. All singers welcomed! Contact Diaconal Minister Linda Peppernick at lindapeppernick@embarqmail.com

Post-High School Connections - First Church Friends: I am looking for people to connect with our post high age young adults. Check-in texts, notes, and emails are a great way to let them know they're a part of the family even when they may not be able to attend regularly. If you're willing to friend one of our post high young adults, please contact Beth Stahl (stahlfamily2000@gmail.com or 717-375-8011).

200th Anniversary – 2022 will mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of First Church.  We are looking for interested individuals to be part of the committee planning our celebrations. Please contact Pastor Steve at pastor4fumc@gmail.com if you would like to help.

Evening Bible Studies We are planning evening study opportunities for the fall.  To date these classes are being planned:

Intergenerational Study -Interested in making connections between faith and real life?  In building intergenerational relationships within the church?  Consider joining this discussion-based Bible study at 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of every month. Study is designed for youth Grade 7 or higher in the company of their parents. All adults welcome!

“Wednesday Bible Study” @ 6:30 PM, Begins September 22nd and every Wednesday after in the Preschool Classroom (Apple Place). We will be studying the book of Jeremiah.  Jeremiah lived and wrote in a dark time. Studying the ministry of the prophet Jeremiah, you will get a glimpse of what it is like to have a personal relationship with God, for God and a human to be together and you will discover how you can grow in your own personal relationship to God.  This study will also stream on Zoom.  Study guides are available to pick up at the Welcome Center or you can download a copy here.

 If you are interested in taking a Stop the Bleed Class please sign up HERE!

The annual Veterans, spouses and family picnic will be held TOMORROW -Saturday September 25 at Green Township Memorial Park. Plan on eating at 12:30p.m. Provided will be fried chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, rolls condiments and place settings.  Each family is asked to bring  their own drinks and a dish to share by last names: A-H, salad or fruit;  I-Q, side dish (baked beans, macaroni and cheese, etc.); R-Z, desserts     So that we order the proper amount of food, please  respond by September 20  how many from your family will be attending. You   may contact Doug Davis @717 372-7373 or e-mail  dougdavis0034yahoo.com  or  Ray Kauffman 717 64-6688 or raykauffman35@outlook.com

Blood Drive Monday, October 4,  beginning at 2pm in the FLC

Homecoming is October 6th.  Currently, the parade is scheduled for 6:00 PM.  You are invited to view the parade from the parsonage front lawn at 925 East McKinley Street.

World Communion Sunday will be celebrated next Sunday October 3rd as a blended joint service at 10:00 AM at the park.

First UMC Church Conference Sunday, November 21st at 5:00 PM. Our District Superintendent will be with us to conduct the meeting. Please mark your calendars and plan on attending.

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22 (KJV)

We lift our prayers to the Lord!

Healing prayers for Matthew who is very ill.

Continue praying for the people of Haiti & Afghanistan.

Pray for our government leaders.

Pray for all those who have been affected by rain & flooding.

Prayers for Norine Selby (Glenn & Natalie Aylesworth’s daughter).

Healing for Dave & Joan Kauffman.

Bev Rensch – comfort and peace – at her home.

Betty Naugle – healing.

Pray for those who are coming to GriefShare.

Pray for those dealing with fire in the west.

Pray for water shortage in the west.

Pray for Stephen Ministry.

Continued prayers for Postal Service.

Healing for those with Covid.

Safety and protection for school children and those working in school systems.

Healing prayer for Jeff Brookens – medical concerns.

Pray for the Women's Retreat in October - those planning the retreat and the ladies attending.

Pray for First Lights -Connecting the light of the church to the heart of families to ignite the faith of the next generation.

Pray for Illuminate Youth Ministry.

Pray for Hungry Hearts Ministry.

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

Linda Leidig

Kathy Beaston

Barb Armstrong

Peggy

Deb Ewing

Shirley Jones

Evelyn Jones

Praise and Thanksgiving

We praise God for His protection; especially for Pastor Gener, who is home from Haiti.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

September 17, 2021

Posted on by

Sunday September 19, 2021

9:00am - Worship at Memorial Park Bandshell

10:00am - Sunday School

11am - Traditional service in sanctuary

COVID19 Protocol Update

Because Franklin county has moved into the High category of COVID transmission, First Church leadership asks that congregants wear masks while inside the building per CDC recommendation. This is recommended NOT mandated. We understand that individuals have varied feelings on masks.

We are also again encouraging social distancing in the sanctuary and in the FLC.

Please see Bishop Park's announcement.

Get Ready for Fall!

Download the Church Center App by Planning Center for quick signups to events, studies, and groups.

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

In Traditional Worship:

Pastor - Steven M. Livermore
Organist - Diaconal Minister of Music: Linda A. Peppernick
Reader - Terri Stevens

Today’s Flowers are placed this morning to the glory of God and in loving memory of Del's son Ryan Mills and in memory of Sandy's mother Martha Mowen by Sandy Mills.
Last Week’s Altar Flowers—were in memory of Harold G. Wenger and Mr. and Mrs. J. Arthur StClair and Mr. and Mrs. J. Glenn Kohler. Given by Joe and Janice Kohler. The centerpiece - was in memory of Tom Robison given by the Robison family.
(To place altar flowers call Vikki Eckert at 419-632-4653)

 

 

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Worship Bulletins for kids to engage them with the service are available at the welcome tables.

We celebrate with the Moyers as they dedicate Liem Royce to Christ today!

'Fear Not!' October Schedule coming soon!

 

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry will be meeting in backyards this September on Wednesday nights. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

Please remember the needs of the orphans whom we support year-round.  If you would like to support the work of constructing the new orphanage, please write your check out to “FUMC Haiti Mission” and write “Orphanage Construction” in the memo.  School of Hope scholarships begin again in September.

Haitian Earth Quake - UMCOR - United Methodist Committee On Relief is working with partners in Haiti on how to best meet the immediate needs of survivors following last Saturday’s devastating earthquake.  You can help by making a gift to the work of international disaster response by going on line here: https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450/ or by writing a check to “First UMC” and writing “Haiti Quake Relief” in the memo or using an envelope and addressing it “Haiti Quake Relief” and put it in the offering plate.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Show Them You Care! When you see people who are sad, lonely, or grief-stricken, don't just tell them you care! SHOW THEM! Ask how they are, listen to what they have to say, share the love of Jesus. And if their need is great, encourage them to consider Stephen Ministry as a way to receive the transforming love and care of Jesus. Show them you care, and you can make a real difference in their life.  Then suggest they contact Gail at 717 263-8491 who will be able to help find a Stephen Minister to walk with them.

GriefShare group meets Mondays at 1:00 PM. For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207.

 

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Mark your calendars now for our annual Women’s Retreat that will be held on October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration Form can be downloaded below:

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Important Note regarding this week's email:

There were technical issues this week with the eblast to the congregation. We apologize for any multiple emails you may have received.

Important Note regarding upcoming events:

If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Chancel Choir-Practice is held Wednesday nights at 7:00. All singers welcomed! Contact Diaconal Minister Linda Peppernick at lindapeppernick@embarqmail.com

Post-High School Connections - First Church Friends: I am looking for people to connect with our post high age young adults. Check-in texts, notes, and emails are a great way to let them know they're a part of the family even when they may not be able to attend regularly. If you're willing to friend one of our post high young adults, please contact Beth Stahl (stahlfamily2000@gmail.com or 717-375-8011).

200th Anniversary – 2022 will mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of First Church.  We are looking for interested individuals to be part of the committee planning our celebrations. Please contact Pastor Steve at pastor4fumc@gmail.com if you would like to help.

Evening Bible Studies We are planning evening study opportunities for the fall.  To date these classes are being planned:

Intergenerational Study -Interested in making connections between faith and real life?  In building intergenerational relationships within the church?  Consider joining this discussion-based Bible study at 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of every month. Study is designed for youth Grade 7 or higher in the company of their parents. All adults welcome!

“Wednesday Bible Study” @ 6:30 PM, Begins September 22nd and every Wednesday after in the Preschool Classroom (Apple Place). We will be studying the book of Jeremiah.  Jeremiah lived and wrote in a dark time. Studying the ministry of the prophet Jeremiah, you will get a glimpse of what it is like to have a personal relationship with God, for God and a human to be together and you will discover how you can grow in your own personal relationship to God.  This study will also stream on Zoom.  Study guides are available to pick up at the Welcome Center or you can download a copy here.

 If you are interested in taking a Stop the Bleed Class please contact Dr. James Hurley at jehtwo@comcast.net.

The annual Veterans, spouses and family picnic will be held Saturday September 25 at Green Township Memorial Park. Plan on eating at 12:30p.m. Provided will be fried chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, rolls condiments and place settings.  Each family is asked to bring  their own drinks and a dish to share by last names: A-H, salad or fruit;  I-Q, side dish (baked beans, macaroni and cheese, etc.); R-Z, desserts     So that we order the proper amount of food, please  respond by September 20  how many from your family will be attending. You   may contact Doug Davis @717 372-7373 or e-mail  dougdavis0034yahoo.com  or  Ray Kauffman 717 64-6688 or raykauffman35@outlook.com

Blood Drive Monday, October 4,  beginning at 2pm in the FLC

Homecoming is October 6th.  Currently, the parade is scheduled for 6:00 PM.  You are invited to view the parade from the parsonage front lawn at 925 East McKinley Street.

World Communion Sunday will be celebrated October 3rd at 10:00 AM at the park. Originally a Ministry Fair was planned to follow but it is postponed to a later date.

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22 (KJV)

We lift our prayers to the Lord!

Continue praying for the people of Haiti & Afghanistan

Pray for Pastor Genre’s safe travels

Pray for our government leaders

Pray for all those who have been affected by rain & flooding

Prayers for Norine Selby (Glenn & Natalie Aylesworth’s daughter)

Healing for Dave Kauffman

Bev Rensch – healing – Chambersburg Hospital

Betty Naugle – healing – Chambersburg Hospital

Healing for John Parson

Healing for Joan Kauffman

Pray for those who will be coming to GriefShare 9/20

Pray for those dealing with fire in the west

Pray for water shortage in the west

Pray for Stephen Ministry

Continued prayers for Postal Service

Healing for those with Covid

Safety and protection for school children and those working in school systems

 

 

Healing prayer for Jeff Brookens – medical concerns

Pray for the Women's Retreat in October - those planning the retreat and the ladies coming

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

  • John & Bunny Parson
  • Larry & Avis Guise
  • Al & Linda Lojacono
  • Jay & Betty Upperman
  • Bill & Mary Butts
  • Jack & Bette Bowers
  • Dean & Carol Crow
  • Paul & Erma Collins
  • Bill & Thelma Peerce
  • Kirk & Kathy Paul
  • Chuck & Dianne Salter

Praise and Thanksgiving

We praise God for the little children! We praise God for parents who dedicate their children to Christ!

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

September 10, 2021

Posted on by

Sunday September 12, 2021

9:00am - Worship at Memorial Park Bandshell

10:00am - Sunday School

11am - Traditional service in sanctuary

COVID19 Protocol Update

Because Franklin county has moved into the High category of COVID transmission, First Church leadership asks that congregants wear masks while inside the building per CDC recommendation. This is recommended NOT mandated. We understand that individuals have varied feelings on masks.

We are also again encouraging social distancing in the sanctuary and in the FLC.

Please see Bishop Park's announcement.

Get Ready for Fall!

Download the Church Center App by Planning Center for quick signups to events, studies, and groups.

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

In Traditional Worship:

Pastor - Steven M. Livermore

Organist - Diaconal Minister of Music: Linda A. Peppernick

Reader -  Linda Peppernick

Flowers are placed this morning to the Glory of God and in loving memory of Sharon Hoover who would have celebrated her birthday today. Given by Bobbi and Steve Gillespie.

 

 

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Worship Bulletins for kids to engage them with the service are available at the welcome tables.

'Fear Not!' October Schedule coming soon!

 

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry will be meeting in backyards this September on Wednesday nights. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

Please remember the needs of the orphans whom we support year-round.  If you would like to support the work of constructing the new orphanage, please write your check out to “FUMC Haiti Mission” and write “Orphanage Construction” in the memo.  School of Hope scholarships begin again in September.

Haitian Earth Quake - UMCOR - United Methodist Committee On Relief is working with partners in Haiti on how to best meet the immediate needs of survivors following last Saturday’s devastating earthquake.  You can help by making a gift to the work of international disaster response by going on line here: https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450/ or by writing a check to “First UMC” and writing “Haiti Quake Relief” in the memo or using an envelope and addressing it “Haiti Quake Relief” and put it in the offering plate.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Stephen Ministry- If you or someone you know of is facing difficulties and would like someone to “walk” with, contact/refer to Gail Vaughn at 717-268-8491 ext 207 for a Stephen’s Ministry Care Giver.

GriefShare will start September 13th, 2021 at 1:00 PM. For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Mark your calendars now for our annual Women’s Retreat that will be held on October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration coming soon.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Important Note regarding upcoming events:

Anyone planning any church events please make sure you contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Chancel Choir-Practice is held Wednesday nights at 7:00. All singers welcomed! Contact Diaconal Minister Linda Peppernick at lindapeppernick@embarqmail.com

Post-High School Connections - First Church Friends: I am looking for people to connect with our post high age young adults. Check-in texts, notes, and emails are a great way to let them know they're a part of the family even when they may not be able to attend regularly. If you're willing to friend one of our post high young adults, please contact Beth Stahl (stahlfamily2000@gmail.com or 717-375-8011).

200th Anniversary – 2022 will mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of First Church.  We are looking for interested individuals to be part of the committee planning our celebrations. Please contact Pastor Steve at pastor4fumc@gmail.com if you would like to help.

Evening Bible Studies We are planning evening study opportunities for the fall.  To date these classes are being planned:

Intergenerational Study -Interested in making connections between faith and real life?  In building intergenerational relationships within the church?  Consider joining this discussion-based Bible study at 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of every month. Study is designed for youth Grade 7 or higher in the company of their parents. All adults welcome!

“Wednesday Bible Study” @ 6:30 PM, Begins September 22nd and every Wednesday after in the Preschool Classroom (Apple Place). We will be studying the book of Jeremiah.  Jeremiah lived and wrote in a dark time. Studying the ministry of the prophet Jeremiah, you will get a glimpse of what it is like to have a personal relationship with God, for God and a human to be together and you will discover how you can grow in your own personal relationship to God.  This study will also stream on Zoom.  Study guides are available to pick up at the Welcome Center or you can download a copy at the website www.firstonsecond.org

 If you are interested in taking a Stop the Bleed Class please contact Dr. James Hurley at jehtwo@comcast.net.

The annual Veterans, spouses and family picnic will be held Saturday September 25 at Green Township Memorial Park. Plan on eating at 12:30p.m. Provided will be fried chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, rolls condiments and place settings.  Each family is asked to bring  their own drinks and a dish to share by last names: A-H, salad or fruit;  I-Q, side dish (baked beans, macaroni and cheese, etc.); R-Z, desserts     So that we order the proper amount of food, please  respond by September 20  how many from your family will be attending. You   may contact Doug Davis @717 372-7373 or e-mail  dougdavis0034yahoo.com  or  Ray Kauffman 717 64-6688 or raykauffman35@outlook.com

Blood Drive Monday, October 4,  beginning at 2pm in the FLC

Homecoming is October 6th.  Currently, the parade is scheduled for 6:00 PM.  You are invited to view the parade from the parsonage front lawn at 925 East McKinley Street.

World Communion Sunday will be celebrated October 3rd at 10:00 AM at the park. Originally a Ministry Fair was planned to follow but it is postponed to a later date.

Alter flowers in sanctuary

If you would like to place flowers in the sanctuary for worship, please call Vikki Eckert at 419 632 4653 or email her at
veckert7997@gmail.com.

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22 (KJV)

We lift our prayers to the Lord!

Continue praying for the people of Haiti & Afghanistan

Pray for Pastor Genre and that the shipment he is waiting for comes soon

Pray for our government leader

Pray for all those who have been affected by Ida

Prayers for Norine Selby (Glenn & Natalie Aylesworth’s daughter)

Healing for Ron Shatzer

Wisdom for Sam

Healing for Dave Kauffman

Bev Rensch – healing

Healing for John Parson

Healing for Joan Kauffman

Pray for those who will be coming to GriefShare 9/13

Pray for those dealing with fire in the west

Pray for water shortage in the west

Pray for Stephen Ministry

Continued prayers for Postal Service

Healing for those with Covid

Safety and protection for school children and those working in school systems

Continued prayer for those in Afghanistan

Continued prayers for Bev Rensch & wisdom for her family

Healing prayer for Jeff Brookens - medical procedure - 9/13 at John Hopkins Hospital
Pray for the Women's Retreat in October - those planning the retreat and the ladies coming

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

Linda Leidig

Kathy Beaston

Barb Armstrong

Peggy

Deb Ewing

Shirley Jones

Evelyn Jones

Susie Bulger

Praise and Thanksgiving

We praise God for the amazing world He made! We celebrate the sounds of summer!

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

September 3, 2021

Posted on by

Sunday September 5, 2021

9:00am - Worship in the FLC (change due to weather forecast)

10:00am - Sunday School

11am - Traditional service in sanctuary

COVID19 Protocol Update

Because Franklin county has moved into the High category of COVID transmission, First Church leadership asks that congregants wear masks while inside the building per CDC recommendation. This is recommended NOT mandated. We understand that individuals have varied feelings on masks.

We are also again encouraging social distancing in the sanctuary and in the FLC.

Please see Bishop Park's announcement.

Get Ready for Fall!

Download the Church Center App by Planning Center for quick signups to events, studies, and groups.

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

In Traditional Worship September 5, 2021:

Pastor - Steven M. Livermore
Organist - Diaconal Minister of Music: Linda A. Peppernick
Reader - Penny Buckus
Soloist - Doug Harbach

Flowers are placed this morning to the Glory of God and in loving memory of Sharon Hoover who would have celebrated her birthday today. Given by Bobbi and Steve Gillespie.

 

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Stay tuned with First Lights as we make Sundays Fundays in September!

Worship Bulletins for kids to engage them with the service are available at the welcome tables.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry will be meeting in backyards this September on Wednesday nights. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

Please remember the needs of the orphans whom we support year-round.  If you would like to support the work of constructing the new orphanage, please write your check out to “FUMC Haiti Mission” and write “Orphanage Construction” in the memo.  School of Hope scholarships begin again in September.

Haitian Earth Quake - UMCOR - United Methodist Committee On Relief is working with partners in Haiti on how to best meet the immediate needs of survivors following last Saturday’s devastating earthquake.  You can help by making a gift to the work of international disaster response by going on line here: https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450/ or by writing a check to “First UMC” and writing “Haiti Quake Relief” in the memo or using an envelope and addressing it “Haiti Quake Relief” and put it in the offering plate.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Stephen Ministers...

C reate an

A tmosphere of Acceptance

R eassurance (of God’s love) and

E ncouragement.

Are you in need of …
Someone who cares? Someone who supports? Someone who listens? Someone who shares faith?

Please come and ask! Know that we will confidentially care for you as long as you need us! Believe that God is with you! Allow Him to bring you hope! He will help you rise above the difficult circumstances of our lives!

Call Gail at 717 263-8491 Ext 207

GriefShare will start September 13th, 2021 at 1:00 PM. For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Mark your calendars now for our annual Women’s Retreat that will be held on October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration coming soon.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Important Note regarding upcoming events:

Anyone planning any church events please make sure you contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Chancel Choir- rehearsal will begin Wednesday, September 8th at 7:30 pm in the choir room.  All singers are welcome to come and join us.

Post-High School Connections - First Church Friends: I am looking for people to connect with our post high age young adults. Check-in texts, notes, and emails are a great way to let them know they're a part of the family even when they may not be able to attend regularly. If you're willing to friend one of our post high young adults, please contact Beth Stahl (stahlfamily2000@gmail.com or 717-375-8011).

200th Anniversary – 2022 will mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of First Church.  We are looking for interested individuals to be part of the committee planning our celebrations. Please contact Pastor Steve at pastor4fumc@gmail.com if you would like to help.

Evening Bible Studies We are planning evening study opportunities for the fall.  To date these classes are being planned:

Intergenerational Study - Interested in making connections between faith and real life?  In building intergenerational relationships within the church?  Please consider joining this discussion-based Bible study at 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of every month. Study is designed for youth Grade 7 or higher and adults of all ages.  All are welcome!

“Pastor’s Bible Study” @ 6:30, September 22nd, meeting every Wednesday evening in the Preschool Classroom (Apple Place). Topic TBD.

 If you are interested in taking a Stop the Bleed Class please contact Dr. James Hurley at jehtwo@comcast.net.

World Communion and Ministry Fair Celebration:

October 3rd at 10:00 AM at the park.  Communion service followed by a continental breakfast and Fair highlighting the various ministries of First UMC.  This is an opportunity for the total church to gather one more time around the Lord’s and to learn more about the various ministries of First Church.

 

 

Alter flowers in sanctuary

If you would like to place flowers in the sanctuary for worship, please call Vikki Eckert at 419 632 4653 or email her at
veckert7997@gmail.com.

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22 (KJV)

Lord, hear our prayers...

Pray for Pastor Genre and that the shipment he is waiting for comes soon.

Pray for our government leader.

Pray for all those who have been affected by Ida.

Pray for students, teachers, support staff, bus drivers and all who are involved in education.

Healing for Norine Selby (Glenn & Natalie Aylesworth’s daughter).

Healing for Ron Shatzer.

Wisdom for Sam.

Healing for Dave Kauffman.

 Healing for Bev Rensch.

Healing for John Parson.

Healing for Joan Kauffman.

Pray for those who will be coming to GriefShare 9/13.

Pray for those dealing with fire in the west.

Pray for water shortage in the west.

Pray for Stephen Ministry.

Continued prayers for Postal Service

Pray for those making decisions on how we should care for each other and ourselves during increase of Covid.

Pray for the Women's Retreat in October - those planning the retreat and the ladies coming.

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

  • John & Bunny Parson
  • Larry & Avis Guise
  • Al & Linda Lojacono
  • Jay & Betty Upperman
  • Bill & Mary Butts
  • Jack & Bette Bowers
  • Dean & Carol Crow
  • Paul & Erma Collins
  • Bill & Thelma Peerce
  • Kirk & Kathy Paul
  • Chuck & Dianne Salter

Praise and Thanksgiving

We praise God for who He is and what He has done for us!

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

August 27, 2021

Posted on by

Sunday August 29, 2021

9:00am - Worship at Memorial Park Bandshell

10:00am - Sunday School

11am - Traditional service in sanctuary

COVID19 Protocol Update

Because Franklin county has moved into the High category of COVID transmission, First Church leadership asks that congregants wear masks while inside the building per CDC recommendation. This is recommended NOT mandated. We understand that individuals have varied feelings on masks.

Get Ready for Fall!

Download the Church Center App by Planning Center for quick signups to events, studies, and groups.

Due to schedule conflicts there will not be a live stream video of the services today but the video will be posted in the evening. Thank you!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

In Traditional Worship August 29, 2021:

Pastor - Rev. Steven M. Livermore
Organ - Diaconal Minister of Music: Linda A. Peppernick
Reader - Mr. Mark Davis

Flowers are placed this morning to the Glory of God and In loving memory of John H. Harmon who's birthday would have been August 30. Given by Bonnie Harmon and family.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Stay tuned with First Lights as we make Sundays Fundays in September!

Worship Bulletins for kids to engage them with the service are available at the welcome tables.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry will be meeting in backyards this September on Wednesday nights. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

Please remember the needs of the orphans whom we support year-round.  If you would like to support the work of constructing the new orphanage, please write your check out to “FUMC Haiti Mission” and write “Orphanage Construction” in the memo.  School of Hope scholarships begin again in September.

Haitian Earth Quake - UMCOR - United Methodist Committee On Relief is working with partners in Haiti on how to best meet the immediate needs of survivors following last Saturday’s devastating earthquake.  You can help by making a gift to the work of international disaster response by going on line here: https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450/ or by writing a check to “First UMC” and writing “Haiti Quake Relief” in the memo or using an envelope and addressing it “Haiti Quake Relief” and put it in the offering plate.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Loss of a Spouse Seminar

Monday August 30 at 7:00 PM

What is Loss of a Spouse?

Loss of a Spouse is a two hour outreach seminar designed to:

  • Bring grieving spouses together to receive care and practical teaching on dealing with their tremendous loss.
  • Introduce people to the regular GriefShare group which will start September 13 2021 at 1:00 PM.

For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207.

Stephen's Ministry...

is your ministry. It is an important way FUMC members care for one another. If you are going through a difficult time, consider having a Stephen Minister walk with you. If you know of someone who is facing difficulties, suggest that they request a Stephen Minister visit! Please utilize this ministry! Stephen Ministry belongs to everyone. Contact Gail Vaughn for further information. 717-268-8491 ext 207

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Mark your calendars now for our annual Women’s Retreat that will be held on October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration coming soon.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Important Note regarding upcoming events:

Anyone planning any church events please make sure you contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Chancel Choir- rehearsal will begin Wednesday, September 8th at 7:30 pm in the choir room.  All singers are welcome to come and join us.

Post-High School Connections - First Church Friends: I am looking for people to connect with our post high age young adults. Check-in texts, notes, and emails are a great way to let them know they're a part of the family even when they may not be able to attend regularly. If you're willing to friend one of our post high young adults, please contact Beth Stahl (stahlfamily2000@gmail.com or 717-375-8011).

200th Anniversary – 2022 will mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of First Church.  We are looking for interested individuals to be part of the committee planning our celebrations. Please contact Pastor Steve at pastor4fumc@gmail.com if you would like to help.

 

Alter flowers in sanctuary

If you would like to place flowers in the sanctuary for worship, please call Vikki Eckert at 419 632 4653 or email her at
veckert7997@gmail.com.

Upcoming...

We will begin an evening Bible Study on Wednesday, September 22nd at 7:00 PM in what was the Apple Center. Look for details next week.

If you are interested in taking a Stop the Bleed Class please contact Dr. James Hurley at jehtwo@comcast.net.

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

"I am the Lord that healeth thee." Exodus 15:26 KJV

Please pray...

For the people of Haiti & Afghanistan.

For our government leader.

For students, teachers, support staff, bus drivers and all who are involved in education.

Healing for Ron Shatzer.

Healing for Dave Kauffman.

Healing for Bev Rensch –(she's back in rehab).

Healing for John Parson.

For those having to work in the heat.

For those dealing with fire in the west and Canada.

For water shortage in the west.

For those traveling for work or vacation.

For those who will be attending Loss of a Spouse on 8/30.

For Stephen Ministry.

For Postal Service

For those making decisions on how we should care for each other and ourselves during increase of Covid.

For the Women's Retreat in October - those planning the retreat and those ladies coming.

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

Linda Leidig

Bev Rensch

Kathy Beaston

Barb Armstrong

Peggy

Deb Ewing

Shirley Jones

Evelyn Jones

Praise and Thanksgiving

Paul and I want to thank all the church members for their prayers, lovely anniversary cards and gifts sent to us on our 50th Wedding Anniversary. Thanks for remembering us on this special anniversary. It was deeply appreciated to hear from our church family.

Blessings to all of you.

Love and prayer, Paul & Erma

 

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

August 20, 2021

Posted on by

Sunday August 21, 2021

9:00am - Worship with Back to School Blessing at Memorial Park Bandshell

10:00am - Sunday School (Promotion Sunday for kids and students)

11am - Traditional service in sanctuary

COVID19 Protocol Update

Because Franklin county has moved into the High category of COVID transmission, First Church leadership asks that congregants wear masks while inside the building per CDC recommendation. This is recommended NOT mandated. We understand that individuals have varied feelings on masks.

Pray for school staff, teachers, students and parents!

View the service later! You can watch any of our services on our YouTube channel. Just search for First United Methodist Church Chambersburg or click the link above.

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

In Traditional Worship August 21, 2021:

Pastor - Rev. Steven M. Livermore
Organ - Dr. Ben Schellhase
Reader - Doug Harbach
Soloist - Caleb Schelander

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Sunday is promotion Sunday where we recognize students moving up a grade, in particular the 6th graders moving up from kids ministry to youth ministry. We will also be doing a back to school blessing for parents, students, teachers, staff during the 9am worship service at the park. Kids are encouraged to bring their bookbag. Backpack blessing tags come with a pop it toy this year!

During Sunday School hour we will play games, eat snacks and talk in small groups about the upcoming school year.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-7:30pm, and on Sundays at 10am. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

Please remember the needs of the orphans whom we support year-round.  If you would like to support the work of constructing the new orphanage, please write your check out to “FUMC Haiti Mission” and write “Orphanage Construction” in the memo.  School of Hope scholarships begin again in September.

Haitian Earth Quake - UMCOR - United Methodist Committee On Relief is working with partners in Haiti on how to best meet the immediate needs of survivors following last Saturday’s devastating earthquake.  You can help by making a gift to the work of international disaster response by going on line here: https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450/ or by writing a check to “First UMC” and writing “Haiti Quake Relief” in the memo or using an envelope and addressing it “Haiti Quake Relief” and put it in the offering plate.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Loss of a Spouse Seminar

Monday August 30 at 7:00 PM

What is Loss of a Spouse?

Loss of a Spouse is a two hour outreach seminar designed to:

  • Bring grieving spouses together to receive care and practical teaching on dealing with their tremendous loss.
  • Introduce people to the regular GriefShare group which will start September 13 2021 at 1:00 PM.

For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207.

Stephen's Ministry...

is your ministry. It is an important way FUMC members care for one another. If you are going through a difficult time, consider having a Stephen Minister walk with you. If you know of someone who is facing difficulties, suggest that they request a Stephen Minister visit! Please utilize this ministry! Stephen Ministry belongs to everyone. Contact Gail Vaughn for further information. 717-268-8491 ext 207

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Mark your calendars now for our annual Women’s Retreat that will be held on October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration coming soon.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Chancel Choir The Annual Chancel Choir picnic will be held Wednesday, August 25 at 6:00 pm at the home of Tom and Penny Buckus, 225 Meadow Lane.  Please bring a covered dish to share.  In case of rain, the picnic will be canceled.

Post-High School Connections - First Church Friends: I am looking for people to connect with our post high age young adults. Check-in texts, notes, and emails are a great way to let them know they're a part of the family even when they may not be able to attend regularly. If you're willing to friend one of our post high young adults, please contact Beth Stahl (stahlfamily2000@gmail.com or 717-375-8011).

200th Anniversary – 2022 will mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of First Church.  We are looking for interested individuals to be part of the committee planning our celebrations. Please contact Pastor Steve at pastor4fumc@gmail.com if you would like to help.

VIRTUAL LEARNING - The total investment in virtual learning First UMC provided during the 2020/2021 school year was $49,432. Thank you for helping local school children keep in step with education!

Alter flowers in sanctuary

If you would like to place flowers in the sanctuary for worship, please call Vikki Eckert at 419 632 4653 or email her at
veckert7997@gmail.com.

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

"I am the Lord that healeth thee." Exodus 15:26 KJV

Please pray...

For the people of Haiti & Afghanistan.

Healing for Dick Jenkin's daughter, Alison Jenkins Arrowood.

A husband's salvation, and for the healing of the marriage.

Healing for Ron Shatzer.

Healing for Dave Kauffman.

Healing for Bev Rensch (HMC).

Healing for John Parson.

For those having to work in the heat.

For those dealing with fire in the west and Canada.

For water shortage in the west.

For those traveling for work or vacation.

For those who will be attending Loss of a Spouse on 8/30.

Continued prayers for Postal Service.

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

John & Bunny Parson
Larry & Avis Guise
Al & Linda Lojacono
Jay & Betty Upperman
Bill & Mary Butts
Jack & Bette Bowers
Dean & Carol Crow
Paul & Erma Collins
Bill & Thelma Peerce
Kirk & Kathy Paul
Chuck & Dianne Salter

Praise and Thanksgiving

Paul and I want to thank all the church members for their prayers, lovely anniversary cards and gifts sent to us on our 50th Wedding Anniversary. Thanks for remembering us on this special anniversary. It was deeply appreciated to hear from our church family.

Blessings to all of you.

Love and prayer, Paul & Erma

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

August 13, 2021

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Sunday August 15, 2021

9:00am - Sunday school classes at the church. (There is no children's Sunday School.)
10:15am - Combined Blended Worship in the Sanctuary
12:30pm - Church Picnic at Pine Pavilion at Caledonia State Park
The picnic is catered, and table service provided. All you are asked to bring is your appetite and a lawn chair.

 

COVID19 Protocol Update

Because Franklin county has moved into the High category of COVID transmission, First Church leadership asks that congregants wear masks while inside the building per CDC recommendation. This is recommended NOT mandated. We understand that individuals have varied feelings on masks.

Movie Night at the Park

Join us at Memorial Park Band Shell on Saturday, August 21st at 8:00 PM for the family film, “Raya and the Last Dragon”. Invite friends to the movie and to worship Sunday as we look at the film’s theme of trust in worship.

View the service later! You can watch any of our services on our YouTube channel. Just search for First United Methodist Church Chambersburg or click the link above.

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

In Worship August 15, 2021:

Pastor - Rev. Steven M. Livermore

Organ - Diaconal Minister of Music: Linda A. Peppernick

Reader - Rachel Gotwald

Soloist - Justine Stevens

First UMC Praise Team

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Worship with us Sundays at 9am.
Don't forget that kids who complete their worship bulletin get a 'punch' for each bulletin and when all ten holes are punched, they receive a $10 gift card. You can pick up kids' worship bulletins at the welcome tables.

First Lights Kids Ministry will not meet August 15, 2021. Please join us at Caledonia State Park for a picnic at the Pine Pavilion!

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-7:30pm, and on Sundays at 10am. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

Please remember the needs of the orphans whom we support year-round.  If you would like to support the work of constructing the new orphanage, please write your check out to “FUMC Haiti Mission” and write “Orphanage Construction” in the memo.  School of Hope scholarships begin again in September.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Loss of a Spouse Seminar

Monday August 30 at 7:00 PM

What is Loss of a Spouse?

Loss of a Spouse is a two hour outreach seminar designed to:

  • Bring grieving spouses together to receive care and practical teaching on dealing with their tremendous loss.
  • Introduce people to the regular GriefShare group which will start September 13 2021 at 1:00 PM.

For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207.

Stephen's Ministry

If you are older than 18 years of age and in need of spiritual or emotional support or just need a listening ear, Stephen’s Ministry is here for you with friends who care.  To learn more, contact Gail Vaughn, our director of congregational care at 717-263-8491 ext 207 or email at parishvisitorfumc@gmail.com

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Mark your calendars now for our annual Women’s Retreat that will be held on October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration coming soon.

Join us for 'Streams in the Desert - Tools for the dry times in life.'

August 21, 2021 *  9-10:30am * Connect Café

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Chancel Choir The Annual Chancel Choir picnic will be held Wednesday, August 25 at 6:00 pm at the home of Tom and Penny Buckus, 225 Meadow Lane.  Please bring a covered dish to share.  In case of rain, the picnic will be canceled.

Post-High School Connections - First Church Friends: I am looking for people to connect with our post high age young adults. Check-in texts, notes, and emails are a great way to let them know they're a part of the family even when they may not be able to attend regularly. If you're willing to friend one of our post high young adults, please contact Beth Stahl (stahlfamily2000@gmail.com or 717-375-8011).

200th Anniversary – 2022 will mark the 200th Anniversary of the birth of First Church.  We are looking for interested individuals to be part of the committee planning our celebrations. Please contact Pastor Steve at pastor4fumc@gmail.com if you would like to help.

Flowers August 15, 2021

This morning's altar flowers are placed to glorify God In honor of grandson Wyatt's birthday. Given by Judy Paes.

If you would like to place flowers on that date call Vikki Eckert at 419 632 4653 or email veckert7997@gmail.com

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

"I am the Lord that healeth thee." Exodus 15:26 KJV

Please pray...

Healing for Carel Fish

Healing for Dave Kauffman

Bev Rensch – healing

Healing for John Parson

Pray for those having to work in the heat

Pray for those dealing with fire in the west and Canada

Pray for water shortage in the west

Pray for those traveling for work or vacation

Pray for those who will be attending Loss of a Spouse on  8/30

Continued prayers for Postal Service

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

  • Vickie Leisher
  • Bev Rensch
  • Barb Armstrong
  • Deb Ewing
  • Shirley Jones
  • Peggy
  • Kathy Beaston
  • Linda Leidig
  • Evelyn Jones

Praise and Thanksgiving

Praise for the goodness of God our Father!

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23).

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

August 6, 2021

Posted on by

SERVICE TIMES/LOCACTIONS:

9am Worship at Memorial Park Bandshell

11am Traditional service in the church sanctuary

REMINDER: Please do NOT mail checks or other communication to the church through the U.S. postal system. We continue to have very spotty or non-existent mail service. The church office has gone up to two weeks without receiving mail, even with going into the post office for pick up.

View the service later! You can watch any of our services on our YouTube channel. Just search for First United Methodist Church Chambersburg or click the link above.

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

We are asking folks not to mail donations through the US Postal service. Please hand-deliver them to the church, because we are having issues with receiving mail. We also have online giving available as well. Thank you for blessing us!

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm.

Worship with us Sundays at 9am.
Don't forget that kids who complete their worship bulletin get a 'punch' for each bulletin and when all ten holes are punched, they receive a $10 gift card. You can pick up kids' worship bulletins at the welcome tables.

First Lights Kids Ministry will not meet August 15, 2021. Please join us at Caledonia State Park for a picnic at the Pine Pavilion!

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-7:30pm, and on Sundays at 10am. A full schedule is on the events page at illuminateyouth.org.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts
Please save your egg cartons and drop them off for Hungry Hearts so we can repackage flats of eggs for distribution. If you would like to serve with this ministry, please contact Dan Renshaw at dan@pageek.com.
Hungry Heart's Clothing Mission is NOT accepting donations at the present time due to the church elevator being out of operation and several of our regular volunteers not being available due to health issues. We are looking for some additional volunteers.  The job includes sorting and sizing incoming donations, maintaining the store in the church basement, storing out-of-season clothing, and greeting our guests on Thursday afternoons.  Parents and children may want to consider helping during the summer months. (We find younger volunteers to be very helpful in sorting toys.) Our usual hours are from 1 pm to 5pm on Thursday but we can be flexible. Call Carel Fish 717-264-4354.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti

We are on summer hiatus with scholarships, but they will begin again in September. Please remember the needs of the orphans whom we support year-round. If you would like to support the work of constructing the new orphanage, please write your check out to “FUMC Haiti Mission” and write “Orphanage Construction” in the memo.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Coming Soon - Loss of a Spouse Seminar

Monday August 27 at 1:00 PM

What is Loss of a Spouse?

Loss of a Spouse is a two hour outreach seminar designed to:

Bring grieving spouses together to receive care and practical teaching on dealing with their tremendous loss.

Introduce people to the regular GriefShare group which will start September 13 2021 at 1:00 PM.

For more information or to register for the seminar contact Gail at 717-263-8491 ext. 207.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Ladies, feeling the need for a little room to breathe in your life?  Mark your calendars now for our annual Women’s Retreat that will be held on October 15th-17th at the Mt. Asbury Retreat Center in Newville, PA.  Registration coming soon.

Join us for 'Streams in the Desert - Tools for the dry times in life.'

August 21, 2021 *  9-10:30am * Connect Café

ANNOUNCEMENTS

VIRTUAL LEARNING WRAP - UP Our total cost for 2021 virtual school for 50 kids was $21,000. Because of generous contributions from our congregation we have now lowered the unfunded portion for the year to $3,000.  Your donations are helping us wrap-up the debt by the end of July. Thank you!

 

PRAYER, PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

"I am the Lord that healeth thee." Exodus 15:26 KJV

Please pray...

Comfort for the the Parris family as Carrie Lynn's father has entered the Church Triumph.

Comfort for Tina Varner’s family as she has entered the Church Triumph.

Comfort for the family and friends of Jack Brandt as he has entered the Church Triumph.

Healing prayers for Stacy Everly (Suzanne Everly's sister-in-law).

Healing for Carel Fish.

Healing for Dave Kauffman.

Healing for Bev Rensch.

Healing for Mark Henderson.

Healing for John Parson.

For those dealing with fire in the west and Canada.

For the water shortage in the west.

For those traveling for work or vacation.

Continued prayers for Postal Service.

 

 

Prayers for those facing life struggles -

  • John & Bunny Parson
  • Larry & Avis Guise
  • Al & Linda Lojacono
  • Jay & Betty Upperman
  • Bill & Mary Butts
  • Jack & Bette Bowers
  • Dean & Carol Crow
  • Paul & Erma Collins
  • Bill & Thelma Peerce
  • Kirk & Kathy Paul
  • Chuck & Dianne Salter

Praise and Thanksgiving

Praise for baptism of Leighton Avery Truett - daughter of Janelle & Wilber Truett.

Praise that Illuminate Youth group had a good time at Impact and experienced the moving of the Holy Spirit.

Important Dates to Remember

Church Picnic

August 15, 2021

The schedule for the day will be as follows:
9:00 am - Sunday school classes at the church.
10:15 am - Combined Blended Worship in the Sanctuary.
12:30 pm - Church Picnic at Pine Pavilion at Caledonia State Park.

With games/events planned and led by the Leadership Team.
The picnic will be catered and table service provided. Come with just your appetite.

Movie Night

When: Saturday August 21, 2021

Where: Memorial Park Bandshell

What: Free outdoor movie night!

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES