September 30, 2022

In Today's Service:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Scripture Reader -  Becky Foor

Acolyte - Maddie Harmon

The altar flowers are given to the glory of God and In loving memory of William A. Peppernick who would have observed a  birthday today by his wife Linda, the children and grandchildren.

Please contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660) to place flowers.

 

World Communion Sunday

We are taking a special Love Offering to provide food for the orphans at Kaendra's Place and the families of the School of Hope.  Please make your checks to "FUMC Haiti Mission '' and in the memo write "Hunger Relief".  Love offering envelopes will be available as you enter the sanctuary and FLC.  Food costs have risen dramatically making it nearly impossible for people in Haiti to feed their families.  Our help will make a big difference in their lives.

Today's Spotlight

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

Homecoming Parade - October 5, 2022 5-8pm (families are welcome to come and go on their own timetable).

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partners: Pray for kids this month as they discover what having 'Grit' has to do with God's character.

Trunk or Treat - A Minion Tailgating Party! October 27, 2022 5pm. Sign up to participate in this fun outreach event - not just to kids, but to the entire downtown community! We will also accept any candy donations for the event.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry is back to meeting regularly on Wednesday nights from 6-8pm! All students in grades 6-12 are welcome. Please contact Collin if you have any questions!

FUMC Boys Basketball Team, grades 9-12!  Practice starts Monday, October 3 from 7 to 8:30 and will be the same time every Monday. Games begin in early January.  Parents, please contact Bob Byers (717-816-6976).  No experience necessary.

 

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service. This is a big ask -Huge! It's also a big need of the church. 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

Donation Breakfast for our Haiti Missions

You are invited to a delicious pancake breakfast on Sunday, October 23rd.  Stop in anytime between 8:15- 10:30 a.m.  The menu will include blueberry, chocolate chip and plain pancakes, sausage and homemade baked oatmeal. There will be orange juice, milk, tea and coffee to drink.   A free will offering will be collected for our School of Hope and orphanage in Petit Goave, Haiti.  Please come and enjoy fellowship with new and old friends while supporting this worthy cause.

Cookie Dough  and Coffee Sale

All profits go to support our Missions in Petit Goave, Haiti. Order forms are  available next to the service bulletins and the welcome center.  Place your name and phone number on the yellow envelope.  Place your completed order form along with your money or check in the envelope.  You can drop off the order form in the glass cookie jar at the welcome center.  All orders are due by Sunday October 30th.  Pick up for your order will be on Saturday, November 19th.

Mission Central is gathering baby kit supplies: cloth diapers, onesies, infant wash cloths, sleepers, diaper pins, sweaters, jackets, receiving blankets  We are also collecting warm kit supplies: heavy blankets, sleeping bags, hand towels, wash cloths, bath soap, tooth brush, toothpaste, comb, composition notebook, pen, socks, gloves, hat, prayer shawl.

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Surviving the Holidays Nov. 20 at 3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect
 UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect

October 14-16, 2022 - Women's Retreat @ Mt. Asbury Retreat Center

Registration forms at the Next Steps Counter. Deadline to register is October 2.

A note to Women Connect:

September 5, 2022,  Dear FUMC Women Connect, Your many kindnesses towards the John Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church have been recorded in our hearts and in heaven.  Your love abounds and we praise God for its richness.  The flowers bestowed on our oldest member brought such joy!  Your financial expression was placed in the John Wesley Church Ministry of Kindness and through you, lives are being enriched and anxieties are being relieved.  Thank you for your radical hospitality and your extravagant generosity!

I carry each of you in my heart! May the Peace of Christ be with you!  Lovingly, Renata

Bicentennial Events

November 13th - Homecoming Sunday.

Women's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 14-16, 2022

 

Men's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 28 & 29, 2022

Donation Breakfast

In the FLC -Sunday, October 23, 8:15-10:30 for School of Hope and Kaendra's Place in Haiti.

 

 

Church Conference

Church Conference will be November 1, 2022 in the FLC from 6:30-8:30pm.

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

The Chancel Choir meets for weekly rehearsals on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm in the choir room. All singers are welcome!

Help Please! Assistance is needed to set up/take down for Hungry Hearts' Thursday ministry.  There is flexibility regarding the days and hours to come in and do the set up and take down.  Talk to Pastor Steve or Dan Renshaw.

If you would like to view the commemorative tray given to FUMC, Sunday, September 18th by Park Avenue UMC, it is on display in the case by the double doors to the sanctuary hallway.

Prayers for Healing

Gideon Hill

Harold Angle

David Kauffman (Joan Kauffman's husband)

Paula Hepfer

Ed & Karen's son-in-law Mark

Jenny Barnes

Jina Zook who needs a kidney transplant

Margie Stamm - medical procedure soon

Prayers for Our World

Recovery from Hurricane Ian.

Clean water for Jackson, Mississippi.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Grief Share

Loss of a Spouse

Trunk or Treat (October 27)

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Comfort and peace for Sandy Mills' family as Sandy has entered the Church Triumph.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

September 23, 2022

In Today's Service:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Scripture Reader -  Addy Brubaker

Acolyte - Gabriel Cieza

The altar flowers are in honor of Tom, Stephanie, Madelyn, Bennett, and Emily Patterson, given by Mom and Grandma Jane.

The centerpiece is in celebration, today, of the birthday of Deborah Thomas given by her mother Elizabeth Renshaw, sister Rebecca and brother Daniel.

Please contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660) to place flowers.

 

Worship Schedule

9am Traditional Service in Sanctuary

10am Sunday School

11am Contemporary Service in FLC

Today's Spotlight

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Wall for First Lights Kids in lobby. If you like, take a card as a reminder to pray for the child on the card for the entirety of this year. We will support and encourage you in praying with reminders, prompts and more! It's going to be a prayer-full year!

Conversation Matters happens Wednesday evenings in September from 6-8pm. Families are asked to pre-register for dinner and conversation with children and adult leadership. However, families can also just drop in, grab and go! We want to make this as easy for you as possible because we really want to listen to what you have to say!
Trunk or Treat - A Minion Tailgating Party! October 27, 2022 5pm. Sign up to participate in this fun outreach event - not just to kids, but to the entire downtown community! We will also accept any candy donations for the event.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry is back to meeting regularly on Wednesday nights from 6-8pm! All students in grades 6-12 are welcome. Please contact Collin if you have any questions!

On September 28, the youth will be having new event called an "ArTee ParTee" at the Bistline home from 6-8pm! We will distribute the annual youth group tee shirts and have some other creative (and messy) activities that will tie into our theme for the year in youth group. Anyone 6th-12th grade can join!

FUMC is starting a boys youth basketball team!  Starting in the first week of October we will begin practices for boys in grades 9 thru 12.  Games begin in early January.  Parents, please contact Bob Byers (717-816-6976) if your child would like to play.  No experience necessary.

 

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service. This is a big ask -Huge! It's also a big need of the church. 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

The school year  will soon begin in Haiti.  The cost per semester for School of Hope scholarships is $140.00.  The cost for support for orphans is also $140.00.  We will have a Haiti Mission update later this month.

 Thank you for your continued support.

Mission Central is gathering baby kit supplies: cloth diapers, onesies, infant wash cloths, sleepers, diaper pins, sweaters, jackets, receiving blankets  We are also collecting warm kit supplies: heavy blankets, sleeping bags, hand towels, wash cloths, bath soap, tooth brush, toothpaste, comb, composition notebook, pen, socks, gloves, hat, prayer shawl.

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

You have begun a journey we know you did not want. We are sorry for your loss, and want to come alongside you on the journey of grief. Our desire is to help you process your grief and think about what life after the loss of your spouse might look like. Your life will never be the same, but we believe this seminar will enable you to face the future with a measure of hope.
Surviving the Holidays
Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect
 UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect

October 14-16, 2022 - Women's Retreat @ Mt. Asbury Retreat Center

Registration forms at the Next Steps Counter. Deadline to register is October 2.

Bicentennial Events

November 13th - Homecoming Sunday.

Women's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 14-16, 2022

 

Men's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 28 & 29, 2022

Donation Breakfast

In the FLC -Sunday, October 23, 8:15-10:30 for School of Hope and Kaendra's Place in Haiti.

 

 

Church Conference

Church Conference will be November 1, 2022 in the FLC from 6:30-8:30pm.

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

The Chancel Choir meets for weekly rehearsals on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm in the choir room. All singers are welcome!

Volunteers are needed to set up/take down for Hungry Hearts' Thursday ministry.  There is flexibility regarding the days and hours to come in and do the set up and take down.  Talk to Pastor Steve or Dan Renshaw.

If you would like to view the commemorative tray given to FUMC, Sunday, September 18th by Park Avenue UMC, it is on display in the case by the double doors to the sanctuary hallway.

 

The Annual Veterans Picnic will be held Saturday September 17, 12:00-4:00, meal at 1p.m. at Green Township Park . All Veterans and family members are invited. Contact raykauffman35@outlook.com.

Prayers for Healing

Gideon Hill

Dave Decker Chambersburg, Hospital

Vickie Leisher

Deb Ewing

Paula Hepfer

Evert Slocum

Dottie Vidil

Ed & Karen's son-in-law Mark

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Jenny Barnes

Travis Buffington - had a kidney transplant and is waiting for the kidney to start functioning.

Those struggling with Covid.

David Glance (Brianna's Dad) in hospital

Jina Zook who needs a kidney transplant

Margie Stamm - medical procedure soon

 

Prayers for Our World

Clean water for Jackson, Mississippi.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Grief Share

Loss of a Spouse

Trunk or Treat (October 27)

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Prayers of comfort and peace for Becca & Jonathan Powers and family at the passing of their father.

Prayers of comfort and peace for John Reed and family at the passing of his mother.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

September 16, 2022

In Today's Service:

Organist/Choir Director - Diaconal Minister Linda Peppernick

Scripture Reader -  Ben Schellhase

Acolyte - Rachel Gotwald

The altar flowers are place to the glory of God and in memory of Dell's son, Ryan Mills and in memory of Martha Mowen, Sandy's Mother. Given by Sandy Mills.

Please contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660) to place flowers.  There are openings for altar flowers on September 25.

Special Welcome

We welcome Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball and thank her for being with us today and bringing this morning's sermon.

We also welcome Rev. Cathy Boileau, our Conference Superintendent and First UMC’s  beloved former pastor for joining us this morning.  We welcome as well Pastor Bruce Levy and members of Park Avenue United Methodist Church, which God planted nearly one hundred years ago with members of First UB Church.

 

Worship Schedule

10am One United Service in the Sanctuary followed by a gathering in the Family Life Center.

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Wall for First Lights Kids in lobby. If you like, take a card as a reminder to pray for the child on the card for the entirety of this year. We will support and encourage you in praying with reminders, prompts and more! It's going to be a prayer-full year!

Conversation Matters happens Wednesday evenings in September from 6-8pm. Families are asked to pre-register for dinner and conversation with children and adult leadership. However, families can also just drop in, grab and go! We want to make this as easy for you as possible because we really want to listen to what you have to say!
Trunk or Treat - A Minion Tailgating Party! October 27, 2022 5pm. Sign up to participate in this fun outreach event - not just to kids, but to the entire downtown community! We will also accept any candy donations for the event.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry is back to meeting regularly on Wednesday nights from 6-8pm! All students in grades 6-12 are welcome. Please contact Collin if you have any questions!

On September 28, the youth will be having new event called an "ArTee ParTee" at the Bistline home from 6-8pm! We will distribute the annual youth group tee shirts and have some other creative (and messy) activities that will tie into our theme for the year in youth group. Anyone 6th-12th grade can join!

FUMC is starting a boys youth basketball team!  Starting in the first week of October we will begin practices for boys in grades 9 thru 12.  Games begin in early January.  Parents, please contact Bob Byers (717-816-6976) if your child would like to play.  No experience necessary.

 

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service. This is a big ask -Huge! It's also a big need of the church. 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

The school year  will soon begin in Haiti.  The cost per semester for School of Hope scholarships is $140.00.  The cost for support for orphans is also $140.00.  We will have a Haiti Mission update later this month.

 Thank you for your continued support.

Mission Central is gathering baby kit supplies: cloth diapers, onesies, infant wash cloths, sleepers, diaper pins, sweaters, jackets, receiving blankets  We are also collecting warm kit supplies: heavy blankets, sleeping bags, hand towels, wash cloths, bath soap, tooth brush, toothpaste, comb, composition notebook, pen, socks, gloves, hat, prayer shawl.

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

You have begun a journey we know you did not want. We are sorry for your loss, and want to come alongside you on the journey of grief. Our desire is to help you process your grief and think about what life after the loss of your spouse might look like. Your life will never be the same, but we believe this seminar will enable you to face the future with a measure of hope.
Surviving the Holidays
Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect
 UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect

Women of all ages are welcomed  and appreciated. Join us Saturday, Sept 17, 9-10:30 in Church Cafe Area. Together we will grow and share “Fruits of the Spirit.” Sharing, Singing and snacks!

October 14-16, 2022 - Women's Retreat @ Mt. Asbury Retreat Center

Registration forms at the Next Steps Counter. Deadline to register is October 2.

Bicentennial Events

November 13th - Homecoming Sunday.

Women's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 14-16, 2022

 

Men's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 28 & 29, 2022

Donation Breakfast

In the FLC -Sunday, October 23, 8:15-10:30 for School of Hope and Kaendra's Place in Haiti.

 

 

Church Conference

Church Conference will be November 1, 2022 in the FLC from 6:30-8:30pm.

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

The Chancel Choir meets for weekly rehearsals on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm in the choir room. All singers are welcome!

Volunteers are needed to set up/take down for Hungry Hearts' Thursday ministry.  There is flexibility regarding the days and hours to come in and do the set up and take down.  Talk to Pastor Steve or Dan Renshaw.

The Annual Veterans Picnic will be held Saturday September 17, 12:00-4:00, meal at 1p.m. at Green Township Park . All Veterans and family members are invited. Contact raykauffman35@outlook.com.

Prayers for Healing

John Parsons - Chambersburg Hospital

Gideon Hill

Joan Hill

Vickie Leisher

Deb Ewing

Paula Hepfer

Evert Slocum

Dottie Vidil

Ed & Karen's son-in-law Mark

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Jenny Barnes

Travis Buffington - had a kidney transplant and is waiting for the kidney to start functioning.

Those struggling with Covid.

Prayers for Our World

Clean water for Jackson, Mississippi.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Grief Share

Loss of a Spouse

Trunk or Treat (October 27)

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

September 9, 2022

In Today's Traditional Service:

Organist - Diaconal Minister  - Linda Peppernick

Scripture Reader -  Linda Peppernick

The altar flowers are place to the glory of God and in memory of J. Arthur (Art) St. Clair and Harold G. Wenger whose birthdays were September 1 and September 11, respectively. Given by Joe and Janice Kohler.

Please contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660) to place flowers.  There are openings for altar flowers on September 4 and 25.

 

Worship Schedule

9am Traditional Service in the Sanctuary

10am Sunday School/Classes/Groups Infant-Adult

11am Contemporary Service in the Family Life Center (FLC)

This Week's Member Spotlight

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Wall for First Lights Kids in lobby. If you like, take a card as a reminder to pray for the child on the card for the entirety of this year. We will support and encourage you in praying with reminders, prompts and more! It's going to be a prayer-full year!

Conversation Matters happens Wednesday evenings in September from 6-8pm. Families are asked to pre-register for dinner and conversation with children and adult leadership.
Trunk or Treat - A Minion Tailgating Party! October 27, 2022 5pm. Sign up to participate in this fun outreach event - not just to kids, but to the entire downtown community! We will also accept any candy donations for the event.
Safe Sanctuary Assistance will be available Wednesday night (September 14) from 6pm-8pm. A notary will be in the church at 6:45pm to sign Affidavits for volunteers. If you feel a tiny nudge upon reading this, but don't have clearances and have never considered working with kids/students in traditional and intergenerational ways, we strongly encourage you to come! We will help you through the background check process so that it does not overwhelm you.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry is back to meeting regularly on Wednesday nights from 6-8pm! All students in grades 6-12 are welcome. Please contact Collin if you have any questions!

On September 28, the youth will be having new event called an "ArTee ParTee" at the Bistline home from 6-8pm! We will distribute the annual youth group tee shirts and have some other creative (and messy) activities that will tie into our theme for the year in youth group. Anyone 6th-12th grade can join!

FUMC is starting a boys youth basketball team!  Starting in the first week of October we will begin practices for boys in grades 9 thru 12.  Games begin in early January.  Parents, please contact Bob Byers (717-816-6976) if your child would like to play.  No experience necessary.

 

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

The school year  will soon begin in Haiti.  The cost per semester for School of Hope scholarships is $140.00.  The cost for support for orphans is also $140.00.  We will have a Haiti Mission update later this month.

 Thank you for your continued support.

Mission Central is in need of Women's briefs, feminine hygiene items, hand and foot warmers, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant (men's and women's), small personal size shampoo and conditioner, new blankets, medical wound care supplies, school rulers, children's scissors, and all sizes of shoes.

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

You have begun a journey we know you did not want. We are sorry for your loss, and want to come alongside you on the journey of grief. Our desire is to help you process your grief and think about what life after the loss of your spouse might look like. Your life will never be the same, but we believe this seminar will enable you to face the future with a measure of hope.
Surviving the Holidays
Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect
 UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect

Women of all ages are welcomed  and appreciated. Join us Saturday, Sept 17, 9-10:30 in Church Cafe Area. Together we will grow and share “Fruits of the Spirit.” Sharing, Singing and snacks!

October 14-16, 2022 - Women's Retreat @ Mt. Asbury Retreat Center

Registration forms at the Next Steps Counter. Deadline to register is October 2.

Bicentennial Events

September 18th - 10 o’clock blended worship service with Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball and our conference superintendent, Rev. Cathy Boileau. A reception will follow in the FLC.

November 13th - Homecoming Sunday.

Women's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 14-16, 2022

 

Men's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 28 & 29, 2022

Donation Breakfast

In the FLC -Sunday, October 23, 8:15-10:30 for School of Hope and Kaendra's Place in Haiti.

 

 

Church Conference

Church Conference will be November 1, 2022 in the FLC from 6:30-8:30pm.

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

The Chancel Choir meets for weekly rehearsals on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm in the choir room. All singers are welcome!

Volunteers are needed to set up/take down for Hungry Hearts' Thursday ministry.  There is flexibility regarding the days and hours to come in and do the set up and take down.  Talk to Pastor Steve or Dan Renshaw.

The Annual Veterans Picnic will be held Saturday September 17, 12:00-4:00, meal at 1p.m. at Green Township Park . All Veterans and family members are invited. Contact raykauffman35@outlook.com.

Prayers for Healing

John Parsons - Chambersburg Hospital

Gideon Hill

Joan Hill

Vickie Leisher

Deb Ewing

Paula Hepfer

Evert Slocum

Dottie Vidil

Ed & Karen's son-in-law Mark

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Jenny Barnes

Travis Buffington - had a kidney transplant and is waiting for the kidney to start functioning.

Those struggling with Covid.

Prayers for Our World

Clean water for Jackson, Mississippi.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Grief Share

Loss of a Spouse

Trunk or Treat (October 27)

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

September 2, 2022

In Today's Traditional Service:

Organist - Diaconal Minister  - Linda Peppernick

Scripture Reader -  Mark Davis

The floral centerpiece is placed to the glory of God and in loving memory of Sharon Hoover who would have celebrated her birthday tomorrow. Given by Bobbi and Steve Gillespie.

Contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660) to place flowers. There is an opening for altar flowers on September 25.

 

Worship Schedule

9am Traditional Service in the Sanctuary

10am Sunday School/Classes/Groups Infant-Adult

11am Contemporary Service in the Family Life Center (FLC)

This Week's Member Spotlight

Mission Outreach through the Years

Check out the new display in the case at the entrance of the Family Life Center. Pictures depict our many Mission outreach activities through the years. Also look for another historic quilt in the hallway display case.

Multi-Generation Families of First Church?
Extensive research has been done to identify First Church families that have been a part of our church for four or more generations. Sixteen families have qualified with four, five, six and even seven generations of continuance membership/attendance. Some families have two or three ancestral lines of First Church connections.
A booklet is being prepared with all the names and dates for these sixteen families which include 24 different family lines. All families will be recognized during the Home Coming celebration on Nov. 13.
All sixteen families have been contacted by Joyce Horst. There is still time to include your family, if you think you might qualify. Contact Joyce Horst or Marie Agostinelli to do the research. We don’t want to miss anyone.

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

NEW 6 WEEK BIBLE STUDY!

Begins Sunday August 28, 2022

Meets at 10 o’clock in the ministry resource room at the end of the staff hallway. It is a study of God's Kingdom from Genesis to Revelation: Guiding Light And Warmth, Satisfying food And Water, Loving relationships with God And Others, Purposeful work And Rest.

 

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Back to School Photo spot this week in the lobby.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-8 pm, and on Sundays at 10am.

Confirmation Classes are being offered this year for any student in 7th-12th grade interested in participating and joining the church. Classes begin on September 11 and will run through May 21. If interested, please contact Collin -- xcultureyouth@gmail.com

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

The school year  will soon begin in Haiti.  The cost per semester for School of Hope scholarships is $140.00.  The cost for support for orphans is also $140.00.  We will have a Haiti Mission update later this month.

 Thank you for your continued support.

Mission Central is in need of Women's briefs, feminine hygiene items, hand and foot warmers, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant (men's and women's), small personal size shampoo and conditioner, new blankets, medical wound care supplies, school rulers, children's scissors, and all sizes of shoes.

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

You have begun a journey we know you did not want. We are sorry for your loss, and want to come alongside you on the journey of grief. Our desire is to help you process your grief and think about what life after the loss of your spouse might look like. Your life will never be the same, but we believe this seminar will enable you to face the future with a measure of hope.
Loss of a Spouse will meet Monday August 29 at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in room 131. Feel free to bring a friend or family member with you. If you have questions, call Gail at 717-263.-8491ext. 207.

Surviving the Holidays

Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect
 UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect
September 17, 2022 -  discussion led by Robin on "Apples of Gold" at the Connect Café.
October 14-16, 2022 - Women's Retreat @ Mt. Asbury Retreat Center

Bicentennial Events

September 18th - 10 o’clock blended worship service with Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball and our conference superintendent, Rev. Cathy Boileau. A reception will follow in the FLC.

November 13th - Homecoming Sunday.

Women's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 14-16, 2022

 

Men's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 28 & 29, 2022

Donation Breakfast

In the FLC -Sunday, October 23, 8:15-10:30 for School of Hope and Kaendra's Place in Haiti.

 

 

Church Conference

Church Conference will be in the FLC from 6:30-8:30pm.

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

The Chancel Choir meets for weekly rehearsals on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm in the choir room. All singers are welcome!

Volunteers are needed to set up/take down for Hungry Hearts' Thursday ministry.  There is flexibility regarding the days and hours to come in and do the set up and take down.  Talk to Pastor Steve or Dan Renshaw.

 

 

Prayers for Healing

Gideon Hill

Joan Hill

Vickie Leisher

Deb Ewing

Paula Hepfer

Evert Slocum

Dottie Vidil

Ed & Karen's son-in-law Mark

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Jenny Barnes

Those struggling with Covid.

Prayers for Our World

Clean water for Jackson, Mississippi.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Grief Share

Loss of a Spouse

Trunk or Treat (October 27)

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

August 26, 2022

Officiating Today's Traditional Service:

Organist - Diaconal Minister - Linda Peppernick
Scripture Reader - Linda Peppernick

The altar flowers placed 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.

Please contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660) to place flowers. There are openings for altar flowers on September 4 and 25.

Worship Schedule

9am Traditional Service in the Sanctuary

10am Sunday School/Classes/Groups Infant-Adult

11am Contemporary Service in the Family Life Center (FLC)

This Week's Member Spotlight

Mission Outreach through the Years

Check out the new display in the case at the entrance of the Family Life Center. Pictures depict our many Mission outreach activities through the years. Also look for another historic quilt in the hallway display case.

Multi-Generation Families of First Church?
Extensive research has been done to identify First Church families that have been a part of our church for four or more generations. Sixteen families have qualified with four, five, six and even seven generations of continuance membership/attendance. Some families have two or three ancestral lines of First Church connections.
A booklet is being prepared with all the names and dates for these sixteen families which include 24 different family lines. All families will be recognized during the Home Coming celebration on Nov. 13.
All sixteen families have been contacted by Joyce Horst. There is still time to include your family, if you think you might qualify. Contact Joyce Horst or Marie Agostinelli to do the research. We don’t want to miss anyone.

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

NEW 6 WEEK BIBLE STUDY!

Begins Sunday August 28, 2022

Meets at 10 o’clock in the ministry resource room at the end of the staff hallway. It is a study of God's Kingdom from Genesis to Revelation: Guiding Light And Warmth, Satisfying food And Water, Loving relationships with God And Others, Purposeful work And Rest.

 

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

August 28 - Promotion/Kickoff Sunday at 10am

Elementary (2nd Floor)

  • Family Photo Spot.
  • 6th Grade Memory Video.
  • Lots of tasty treats!
  • A fun, balloon-themed lesson that encourages kids to think intentionally about how they can grow mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially this year.
  • Bible Presentations.
  • Activity stations.
  • Promotion Prizes
Early Childhood Ministry kicks off the new year with fun for the little ones on the 1st floor at 10am.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-8 pm, and on Sundays at 10am.

Confirmation Classes are being offered this year for any student in 7th-12th grade interested in participating and joining the church. Classes begin on September 11 and will run through May 21. If interested, please contact Collin -- xcultureyouth@gmail.com

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

The school year has begun in Chambersburg and will soon begin in Haiti. This is a request and a reminder for your continued support of the school children and orphans. The cost per semester per scholarship is $140.00. The cost for support for an orphan is also $140.00. We recently sent $2000.00 to the mission for school uniforms for the students.
A lot has been accomplished in the past year. The School of Hope is in a new bigger building with improved facilities including a kitchen which we have helped to build. A new orphanage has also been constructed and is near completion as we wait for construction material to be available for the fabrication of the metal doors. Gener will return to the States once those doors are made and in-stalled. When Gener returns we will have a Haiti Mission Supporters meeting to bring everyone up to date on details of both the ministry and the current political, economic and social situation in the country.
Thank you for your continued support during a time of unprecedent-ed suffering and violence in Haiti. I doubt we will ever really know how much that support has meant in the lives of those the Lord is blessing through this ministry.

Mission Central is in need of Women's briefs, feminine hygiene items, hand and foot warmers, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant (men's and women's), small personal size shampoo and conditioner, new blankets, medical wound care supplies, school rulers, children's scissors, and all sizes of shoes.

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

You have begun a journey we know you did not want. We are sorry for your loss, and want to come alongside you on the journey of grief. Our desire is to help you process your grief and think about what life after the loss of your spouse might look like. Your life will never be the same, but we believe this seminar will enable you to face the future with a measure of hope.
Loss of a Spouse will meet Monday August 29 at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in room 131. Feel free to bring a friend or family member with you. If you have questions, call Gail at 717-263.-8491ext. 207.

Surviving the Holidays

Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect
 UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect
September 17, 2022 -  discussion led by Robin on "Apples of Gold" at the Connect Café.
October 14-16, 2022 - Women's Retreat @ Mt. Asbury Retreat Center

Bicentennial Events

September 18th - 10 o’clock blended worship service with Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball and our conference superintendent, Rev. Cathy Boileau. A reception will follow in the FLC.

November 13th - Homecoming Sunday.

Women's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 14-16, 2022

 

Men's Retreat

Mt. Asbury Retreat Center - October 28 & 29, 2022

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Post-High/Young Adult Sunday School Class meets weekly on Sundays at 10:00! The class will meet in the lounge and will be led by Young Adults. Post-High young adults in their late-teens or in their 20’s are welcome as we read through the book “The Ninefold Path of Jesus: Hidden Wisdom of the Beatitudes”

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

The Chancel Choir will begin weekly rehearsals on Wednesday, August 31 at 7:00 pm in the choir room. All singers are welcome!

Endowment Fund Status June 30, 2022

The total amount of principal (market value) in the Endowment fund is $1,264,678. This is a decrease of $134,520 from year end 2021 ($1,399,198). As you know we cannot spend the principal amount. We can only spend the interest earned. The amount available (interest earned) is $203,946. This was an increase of $5,568. The total amount available by category is as follows:
General $93,658 Music $45,565 Facilities $15,125 Missions $7,765 Scholarships $41,833
Last year we spent $41,270 to support projects. We purchased sound equipment and supported the Haiti Orphanage. The Fund paid $29,500 towards the repair of the elevator and supported pastor salaries for Sierra Leone. So far this year we spent $6,500 for a roof for our Haitian Orphanage. Contributions so far this year are $3, 634.
Past year contributions were,
2018 - $9,926
2019 - $17,282
2020 - $14,341
2021 - $5,338.
Please consider giving to the Endowment Fund. The Fund is very
important to support future church projects.
Thank you. Dave Stevens

Note: The Endowment Fund is separate from the operating/general church budget and the Trustees budget. Endowment usually supports items for which funds would not be available, or are outside the normal purview of the general church and trustee budgets.
Missions – Extend ministries including local, national and international activities.
Scholarship – To provide opportunities for students from FUMC to enter Ordained, Diaconal or Christian Education.
Music – To provide support for continuing and expanding the music program.
Facilities – To maintain and improve the physical condition and beauty of the church building, parsonage, and other properties.
General – To provide support income to be used in the general operation of the church: Salaries, supplies, educational, office equipment, etc., when needed.

 

Prayers for Healing

Gideon Hill

Joan Hill

Vickie Leisher

Deb Ewing

Paula Hepfer

Evert Slocum

Dottie Vidil

Ed & Karen's son-in-law Mark

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Jenny Barnes

Those struggling with Covid.

Rev. Dr. Mark Stamm - in hospital in Texas
Prayers for Missions

For Haiti.

Prayers for Our World

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Grief Share

Loss of a Spouse

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

For Judy Paes' son-in-law, Fred Kraemer, for relief from pain due to his pancreatic cancer.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

Families and a new school year.

 

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

August 19, 2022

Worship Schedule

One United Service INSIDE the Sanctuary at 10am.

Picnic INSIDE the Family Life Center at 11am.

This Week's Member Spotlight

Mission Outreach through the Years

Check out the new display in the case at the entrance of the Family Life Center. Pictures depict our many Mission outreach activities through the years. Also look for another historic quilt in the hallway display case.

Multi-Generation Families of First Church?
Extensive research has been done to identify First Church families that have been a part of our church for four or more generations. Sixteen families have qualified with four, five, six and even seven generations of continuance membership/attendance. Some families have two or three ancestral lines of First Church connections.
A booklet is being prepared with all the names and dates for these sixteen families which include 24 different family lines. All families will be recognized during the Home Coming celebration on Nov. 13.
All sixteen families have been contacted by Joyce Horst. There is still time to include your family, if you think you might qualify. Contact Joyce Horst or Marie Agostinelli to do the research. We don’t want to miss anyone.

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Church Picnic!

Food, Fellowship and Fun

 Games for all ages

When: Sunday, August 21st @11 A.M. (following the combined 10 A.M. worship service at the band shell).

 Where:  Chambersburg Municipal Park Picnic Pavilion (beside play equipment in the back of park)

The picnic meal will be catered and everything will be provided. Please bring a lawn chair for the 10 o’clock service.

Please RSVP with count to:

daveandterri3@gmail.com or call 717-263-2814

Or

Sign up at “Next Step” counter in lobby

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

NEW 6 WEEK BIBLE STUDY!

Meets at 10 o’clock in the resource room at the end of the staff hallway. It is a study of God's Kingdom from Genesis to Revelation: Guiding Light And Warmth, Satisfying food And Water, Loving relationships with God And Others, Purposeful work And Rest.

 

An intergenerational, discussion-based group is meeting on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. in the Resource Room (at the end of the administrative hallway).  This Fall, we will be studying the parables of Jesus.  All are welcome!

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

Traditional

 

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

 

August 21 - Back to School Blessing at Memorial Park Bandshell 10am.

August 21 - Church Picnic at Memorial Park 11am.

August 28 - Promotion/Kickoff Sunday at 10am.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-8 pm, and on Sundays at 10am.

Illuminate youth ministry will meet from 6-7pm on August 24 for a "Battleball and Blessing" night before the school year begins. We'll play dodge ball and then pray together for the coming school year.

Weekly Wednesday meetings resume September 7, from 6-8pm.

If you'd like more information, please contact Collin @xcultureyouth@gmail.com.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

Egg Carton supply is full. We do not need egg cartons at this time.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

We want to keep you up-to-date on how the ministry is going in Haiti. These have been very difficult days, weeks and months in Haiti, which has had more than it’s share of trouble and tragedy. The gifts from members and friends of FUMC have helped to ease the struggles for many.

The School of Hope has been open and students have been taught on a regular basis. Some students have taken their standardized tests administered by the state education department. Your scholarship support has made this possible. We recently sent in the last 1/3 of the annual rent for the school facility. Annual cost is $9,000.

This year we have added a lunch program which costs $400 a month and supplements the food given by the government to provide lunch for 200+ students. Leftovers are sent home for other family members at the end of the-day. The school semester payment for each student is $140, which is required in the fall and spring. These scholarships not only pay for school supplies but also salaries for the teachers. Thank you for helping this year be a success at the School of Hope.

Mission Central is in need of Women's briefs, feminine hygiene items, hand and foot warmers, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant (men's and women's), small personal size shampoo and conditioner, new blankets, medical wound care supplies, school rulers, children's scissors, and all sizes of shoes.

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

You have begun a journey we know you did not want. We are sorry for your loss, and want to come alongside you on the journey of grief. Our desire is to help you process your grief and think about what life after the loss of your spouse might look like. Your life will never be the same, but we believe this seminar will enable you to face the future with a measure of hope.
Loss of a Spouse will meet Monday August 29 at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in room 131. Feel free to bring a friend or family member with you. If you have questions, call Gail at 717-263.-8491ext. 207.

Surviving the Holidays

Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect
Join us this Saturday, August 20, 2022 from 9 -10:30AM in the Connect Café & Lobby, as we discuss "Living Together as God's Chosen People."  Renata Moseley Harper, Pastor of John Wesley AME Zion Church in Chambersburg will be our guest speaker. 
Special music, coffee and light refreshments, too!
 UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect
September 17, 2022 -  discussion led by Robin on "Apples of Gold" at the Connect Café.
October 14-16, 2022 - Women's Retreat @ Mt. Asbury Retreat Center

Help for Kentucky

On Thursday, Mission Central was able to get 1,872 Flood/Cleaning Buckets to Kentucky to assist with the devastation they are experiencing. The total value on those was just over $140,000.

In addition to mission outreach and mission education, part of Mission Central’s mission is disaster recovery. The process is relatively simple! We collect Flood/Cleaning Buckets and supplies for inside the Flood/Cleaning Buckets all year. These buckets are either made or collected at Mission Central. They are then verified, tagged with a Mission Central sticker, wrapped in shrink wrap and stored until a disaster strikes. Then, through our varying partners and UMCOR, they go out to impacted areas for cleanup to begin or continue.

These supplies then enable people to begin the overwhelming job of cleaning up after a natural disaster. We collect these supplies and buckets year around and are grateful for your support!

How You Can Help:

  • Pray for those impacted by this devastation.
  • Make a monetary donation to Mission Central’s disaster relief.
  • Donate supplies – we are in need of the following for our Flood/Cleaning Buckets:
  • 16 oz. to 40 oz. liquid concentrate household cleaners, no spray cleaners
  • Re- useable cleaning wipes, no terry cloth or microfiber
  • Scouring pads, no stainless steel or pads with soap in them
  • Volunteer! We are in need of warehouse and donation door assistance. This can be short term or longer term. (Please email Laurie for details.)

Thanks to your support, Mission Central donated over $2.2 million in Flood/Cleaning buckets between 2019 and now.

Worship at Memorial Park

August 21, 2022

10am -Blended service at Memorial Park.

No children or youth Sunday School.

Service will be followed by our annual church picnic!

200th Anniversary Celebration!

September 18 -Worship with our Bishop.

November 13 -Homecoming Worship with a luncheon.

Mission Experience (MX)

Save the date for MX next year: June 14-17, 2023!

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Post-High/Young Adult Sunday School Class meets weekly on Sundays at 10:00! The class will meet in the lounge and will be led by Young Adults. Post-High young adults in their late-teens or in their 20’s are welcome as we read through the book “The Ninefold Path of Jesus: Hidden Wisdom of the Beatitudes”

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

Endowment Fund Status June 30, 2022

The total amount of principal (market value) in the Endowment fund is $1,264,678. This is a decrease of $134,520 from year end 2021 ($1,399,198). As you know we cannot spend the principal amount. We can only spend the interest earned. The amount available (interest earned) is $203,946. This was an increase of $5,568. The total amount available by category is as follows:
General $93,658 Music $45,565 Facilities $15,125 Missions $7,765 Scholarships $41,833
Last year we spent $41,270 to support projects. We purchased sound equipment and supported the Haiti Orphanage. The Fund paid $29,500 towards the repair of the elevator and supported pastor salaries for Sierra Leone. So far this year we spent $6,500 for a roof for our Haitian Orphanage. Contributions so far this year are $3, 634.
Past year contributions were,
2018 - $9,926
2019 - $17,282
2020 - $14,341
2021 - $5,338.
Please consider giving to the Endowment Fund. The Fund is very
important to support future church projects.
Thank you. Dave Stevens

Note: The Endowment Fund is separate from the operating/general church budget and the Trustees budget. Endowment usually supports items for which funds would not be available, or are outside the normal purview of the general church and trustee budgets.
Missions – Extend ministries including local, national and international activities.
Scholarship – To provide opportunities for students from FUMC to enter Ordained, Diaconal or Christian Education.
Music – To provide support for continuing and expanding the music program.
Facilities – To maintain and improve the physical condition and beauty of the church building, parsonage, and other properties.
General – To provide support income to be used in the general operation of the church: Salaries, supplies, educational, office equipment, etc., when needed.

 

Prayers for Healing

Gideon Hill

Joan Hill

Vickie Leisher

Deb Ewing

Paula Hepfer

Evert Slocum

Dottie Vidil

Ed & Karen's son-in-law Mark

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Jenny Barnes

Those struggling with Covid.

Rev. Dr. Mark Stamm - in hospital in Texas
Prayers for Missions

Karen Null’s granddaughter is home safely from Ukraine. Praise the Lord!

Prayers for Our World

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Grief Share

Loss of a Spouse

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Comfort and peace for Leroy Fickes' family and friends as he entered the Church Triumphant.

For Judy Paes' son-in-law, Fred Kraemer, for relief from pain due to his pancreatic cancer.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

Families and a new school year.

 

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

August 12, 2022

In Traditional Service:

In Worship Today
Preaching - Leslie Gotwald
Organist - Ben Schellhaus

The altar flowers are given to the glory of God and in honor of grandson Wyatt's birthday and remembering Bill's Heavenly birthday by Judy Paes.

*Bette Renshaw is now our flower coordinator. To place flowers please call her at717-263-3660. Please remember to return altar vase liners to the church.

Worship Schedule

Traditional Service in Sanctuary at 9am

Sunday School at 10am

Contemporary Service in FLC (Family Life Center) at 11am

This Week's Member Spotlight

Mission Outreach through the Years

Check out the new display in the case at the entrance of the Family Life Center. Pictures depict our many Mission outreach activities through the years. Also look for another historic quilt in the hallway display case.

Multi-Generation Families of First Church?
Extensive research has been done to identify First Church families that have been a part of our church for four or more generations. Sixteen families have qualified with four, five, six and even seven generations of continuance membership/attendance. Some families have two or three ancestral lines of First Church connections.
A booklet is being prepared with all the names and dates for these sixteen families which include 24 different family lines. All families will be recognized during the Home Coming celebration on Nov. 13.
All sixteen families have been contacted by Joyce Horst. There is still time to include your family, if you think you might qualify. Contact Joyce Horst or Marie Agostinelli to do the research. We don’t want to miss anyone.

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Church Picnic!

Food, Fellowship and Fun

 Games for all ages

When: Sunday, August 21st @11 A.M. (following the combined 10 A.M. worship service at the band shell).

 Where:  Chambersburg Municipal Park Picnic Pavilion (beside play equipment in the back of park)

The picnic meal will be catered and everything will be provided. Please bring a lawn chair for the 10 o’clock service.

Please RSVP with count to:

daveandterri3@gmail.com or call 717-263-2814

Or

Sign up at “Next Step” counter in lobby

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

NEW 6 WEEK BIBLE STUDY!

Meets at 10 o’clock in the resource room at the end of the staff hallway. It is a study of God's Kingdom from Genesis to Revelation: Guiding Light And Warmth, Satisfying food And Water, Loving relationships with God And Others, Purposeful work And Rest.

 

An intergenerational, discussion-based group is meeting on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. in the Resource Room (at the end of the administrative hallway).  This Fall, we will be studying the parables of Jesus.  All are welcome!

Choral Singalong

The Chancel Choir invites all singers and those who love to sing to join us this summer for a Choral Singalong.

We will meet in the choir room to sing together (for fun) Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm on the following dates:

  • August 17

Come when you can, no performance or membership required. Contact any choir member or Linda for further information.

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

August 16th and 18th Early Childhood Ministry Open House 5pm-6pm.

August 21 - Back to School Blessing at Memorial Park Bandshell 10am.

August 21 - Church Picnic at Memorial Park 11am.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-8 pm, and on Sundays at 10am.

Illuminate youth ministry will meet from 6-7pm on August 24 for a "Battleball and Blessing" night before the school year begins. We'll play dodge ball and then pray together for the coming school year.

Weekly Wednesday meetings resume September 7, from 6-8pm.

If you'd like more information, please contact Collin @xcultureyouth@gmail.com.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

Egg Carton supply is full. We do not need egg cartons at this time.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

We want to keep you up-to-date on how the ministry is going in Haiti. These have been very difficult days, weeks and months in Haiti, which has had more than it’s share of trouble and tragedy. The gifts from members and friends of FUMC have helped to ease the struggles for many.

The School of Hope has been open and students have been taught on a regular basis. Some students have taken their standardized tests administered by the state education department. Your scholarship support has made this possible. We recently sent in the last 1/3 of the annual rent for the school facility. Annual cost is $9,000.

This year we have added a lunch program which costs $400 a month and supplements the food given by the government to provide lunch for 200+ students. Leftovers are sent home for other family members at the end of the-day. The school semester payment for each student is $140, which is required in the fall and spring. These scholarships not only pay for school supplies but also salaries for the teachers. Thank you for helping this year be a success at the School of Hope.

Mission Central is in need of Women's briefs, feminine hygiene items, hand and foot warmers, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant (men's and women's), small personal size shampoo and conditioner, new blankets, medical wound care supplies, school rulers, children's scissors, and all sizes of shoes.

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

You have begun a journey we know you did not want. We are sorry for your loss, and want to come alongside you on the journey of grief. Our desire is to help you process your grief and think about what life after the loss of your spouse might look like. Your life will never be the same, but we believe this seminar will enable you to face the future with a measure of hope.
Loss of a Spouse will meet Monday August 29 at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in room 131. Feel free to bring a friend or family member with you. If you have questions, call Gail at 717-263.-8491ext. 207.

Surviving the Holidays

Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Women Connect Facebook Group! All women in the church are invited to join!

UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect:

August 20, 2022 - at FUMC.  Guest Speaker - Renata Mosely

Help for Kentucky

On Thursday, Mission Central was able to get 1,872 Flood/Cleaning Buckets to Kentucky to assist with the devastation they are experiencing. The total value on those was just over $140,000.

In addition to mission outreach and mission education, part of Mission Central’s mission is disaster recovery. The process is relatively simple! We collect Flood/Cleaning Buckets and supplies for inside the Flood/Cleaning Buckets all year. These buckets are either made or collected at Mission Central. They are then verified, tagged with a Mission Central sticker, wrapped in shrink wrap and stored until a disaster strikes. Then, through our varying partners and UMCOR, they go out to impacted areas for cleanup to begin or continue.

These supplies then enable people to begin the overwhelming job of cleaning up after a natural disaster. We collect these supplies and buckets year around and are grateful for your support!

How You Can Help:

  • Pray for those impacted by this devastation.
  • Make a monetary donation to Mission Central’s disaster relief.
  • Donate supplies – we are in need of the following for our Flood/Cleaning Buckets:
  • 16 oz. to 40 oz. liquid concentrate household cleaners, no spray cleaners
  • Re- useable cleaning wipes, no terry cloth or microfiber
  • Scouring pads, no stainless steel or pads with soap in them
  • Volunteer! We are in need of warehouse and donation door assistance. This can be short term or longer term. (Please email Laurie for details.)

Thanks to your support, Mission Central donated over $2.2 million in Flood/Cleaning buckets between 2019 and now.

Worship at Memorial Park

August 21, 2022

10am -Blended service at Memorial Park.

No children or youth Sunday School.

Service will be followed by our annual church picnic!

200th Anniversary Celebration!

September 18 -Worship with our Bishop.

November 13 -Homecoming Worship with a luncheon.

Mission Experience (MX)

Save the date for MX next year: June 14-17, 2023!

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Post-High/Young Adult Sunday School Class meets weekly on Sundays at 10:00! The class will meet in the lounge and will be led by Young Adults. Post-High young adults in their late-teens or in their 20’s are welcome as we read through the book “The Ninefold Path of Jesus: Hidden Wisdom of the Beatitudes”

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

Endowment Fund Status June 30, 2022

The total amount of principal (market value) in the Endowment fund is $1,264,678. This is a decrease of $134,520 from year end 2021 ($1,399,198). As you know we cannot spend the principal amount. We can only spend the interest earned. The amount available (interest earned) is $203,946. This was an increase of $5,568. The total amount available by category is as follows:
General $93,658 Music $45,565 Facilities $15,125 Missions $7,765 Scholarships $41,833
Last year we spent $41,270 to support projects. We purchased sound equipment and supported the Haiti Orphanage. The Fund paid $29,500 towards the repair of the elevator and supported pastor salaries for Sierra Leone. So far this year we spent $6,500 for a roof for our Haitian Orphanage. Contributions so far this year are $3, 634.
Past year contributions were,
2018 - $9,926
2019 - $17,282
2020 - $14,341
2021 - $5,338.
Please consider giving to the Endowment Fund. The Fund is very
important to support future church projects.
Thank you. Dave Stevens

Note: The Endowment Fund is separate from the operating/general church budget and the Trustees budget. Endowment usually supports items for which funds would not be available, or are outside the normal purview of the general church and trustee budgets.
Missions – Extend ministries including local, national and international activities.
Scholarship – To provide opportunities for students from FUMC to enter Ordained, Diaconal or Christian Education.
Music – To provide support for continuing and expanding the music program.
Facilities – To maintain and improve the physical condition and beauty of the church building, parsonage, and other properties.
General – To provide support income to be used in the general operation of the church: Salaries, supplies, educational, office equipment, etc., when needed.

 

Prayers for Healing

Vickie Leisher

Leroy Fickes

Deb Ewing

Paula Hepfer

Evert Slocum

Dottie Vidil

Ed & Karen's son-in-law Mark

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Jenny Barnes

Those struggling with Covid.

Rev. Dr. Mark Stamm - in hospital in Texas
Prayers for Missions

Karen Null’s granddaughter is home safely from Ukraine. Praise the Lord!

Prayers for Our World

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Mission Experience (MX) 2023!

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

For Judy Paes' son-in-law, Fred Kraemer, for relief from pain due to his pancreatic cancer.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

Families and a new school year.

 

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

August 5, 2022

In Traditional Service:

Pastor - Steven M. Livermore

Organist - Diaconal Minister  - Linda Peppernick

Scripture Reader -  Gideon Hill

The centerpiece is placed to the glory of God and in loving memory of daughter Laura who would have celebrated her birthday on August 11. Given by Louise Wentzel and family.

 

Worship Schedule

Traditional Service in Sanctuary at 9am

Sunday School at 10am

Contemporary Service in FLC (Family Life Center) at 11am

This Week's Member Spotlight

Mission Outreach through the Years

Check out the new display in the case at the entrance of the Family Life Center. Pictures depict our many Mission outreach activities through the years. Also look for another historic quilt in the hallway display case.

Multi-Generation Families of First Church?
Extensive research has been done to identify First Church families that have been a part of our church for four or more generations. Sixteen families have qualified with four, five, six and even seven generations of continuance membership/attendance. Some families have two or three ancestral lines of First Church connections.
A booklet is being prepared with all the names and dates for these sixteen families which include 24 different family lines. All families will be recognized during the Home Coming celebration on Nov. 13.
All sixteen families have been contacted by Joyce Horst. There is still time to include your family, if you think you might qualify. Contact Joyce Horst or Marie Agostinelli to do the research. We don’t want to miss anyone.

The Café is open. Stop by for some refreshments!

We are in need of a class or group to set up the Café on the 4th Sunday of the month. If your class or group can serve in this way, please contact Suzanne Everly.

Church Picnic!

Food, Fellowship and Fun

 Games for all ages

When: Sunday, August 21st @11 A.M. (following the combined 10 A.M. worship service at the band shell).

 Where:  Chambersburg Municipal Park Picnic Pavilion (beside play equipment in the back of park)

The picnic meal will be catered and everything will be provided. Please bring a lawn chair for the 10 o’clock service.

Please RSVP with count to:

daveandterri3@gmail.com or call 717-263-2814

Or

Sign up at “Next Step” counter in lobby

Final Meeting!

(BBS) Backyard Bible Studies

The final meeting for Backyard Bible Studies is tonight in the FLC. Potluck dinner at 5:00 p.m., group discussion beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Check out the study here.

NEW 6 WEEK BIBLE STUDY!

Meets at 10 o’clock in the resource room at the end of the staff hallway. It is a study of God's Kingdom from Genesis to Revelation: Guiding Light And Warmth, Satisfying food And Water, Loving relationships with God And Others, Purposeful work And Rest.

 

Choral Singalong

The Chancel Choir invites all singers and those who love to sing to join us this summer for a Choral Singalong.

We will meet in the choir room to sing together (for fun) Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm on the following dates:

  • August 17

Come when you can, no performance or membership required. Contact any choir member or Linda for further information.

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

Cradle Roll is once again open to nursing mothers and families with little ones from 9am-12pm.

We are requesting donations:

  • Pack and Play sheets
  • double A and triple A batteries

We do need some work completed:

  • Power-wash Little Tikes tables, chairs and slides
  • Replace batteries in infant toys

Save the Dates!

August 16th and 18th Early Childhood Ministry Open House 5pm-6pm.

August 21 - Back to School Blessing at Memorial Park Bandshell 10am.

August 21 - Church Picnic at Memorial Park 11am.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-8 pm, and on Sundays at 10am.

If you'd like more information, please contact Collin @xcultureyouth@gmail.com.

 

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

Egg Carton supply is full. We do not need egg cartons at this time.

The Clothing Mission is accepting donations of ALL season clothing during July.  As long as there is room in any of the bins in the lobby you may leave items.  The clothing mission has not scheduled appointments during July to allow for vacations  and rest for all our volunteers.  We have scheduled two work days  for July.  We are hoping to see regular volunteer, people from MX and any others who would like to help.  Those dates and times are:

Thursday, July 21st 10 AM—12:00 PM

Thursday July 28th 1 PM—3:00PM

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

We want to keep you up-to-date on how the ministry is going in Haiti. These have been very difficult days, weeks and months in Haiti, which has had more than it’s share of trouble and tragedy. The gifts from members and friends of FUMC have helped to ease the struggles for many.

The School of Hope has been open and students have been taught on a regular basis. Some students have taken their standardized tests administered by the state education department. Your scholarship support has made this possible. We recently sent in the last 1/3 of the annual rent for the school facility. Annual cost is $9,000.

This year we have added a lunch program which costs $400 a month and supplements the food given by the government to provide lunch for 200+ students. Leftovers are sent home for other family members at the end of the-day. The school semester payment for each student is $140, which is required in the fall and spring. These scholarships not only pay for school supplies but also salaries for the teachers. Thank you for helping this year be a success at the School of Hope.

Mission Central is in need of Women's briefs, feminine hygiene items, hand and foot warmers, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant (men's and women's), small personal size shampoo and conditioner, new blankets, medical wound care supplies, school rulers, children's scissors, and all sizes of shoes.

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

New Seminar: Aug. 29  -  1:00 & 6:30 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Surviving the Holidays

Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Women Connect Facebook Group! All women in the church are invited to join!

UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect:

August 19, 2022 - at FUMC.  Guest Speaker - Renata Mosely

Worship at Memorial Park

August 21, 2022

10am -Blended service at Memorial Park.

No children or youth Sunday School.

Service will be followed by our annual church picnic!

200th Anniversary Celebration!

September 18 -Worship with our Bishop.

November 13 -Homecoming Worship with a luncheon.

Mission Experience (MX)

Save the date for MX next year: June 14-17, 2023!

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!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Post-High/Young Adult Sunday School Class meets weekly on Sundays at 10:00! The class will meet in the lounge and will be led by Young Adults. Post-High young adults in their late-teens or in their 20’s are welcome as we read through the book “The Ninefold Path of Jesus: Hidden Wisdom of the Beatitudes”

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

Alter Flowers: Please return the vase liners to the church. Also, we are in need of someone to take charge of flowers. Contact Vikkie Eckert if interested.

Service

The 'Following Jesus by Serving People' form is available this morning next to today's worship folder. There is a box for you to return the completed form at the “Next Steps” counter.

Endowment Fund Status June 30, 2022

The total amount of principal (market value) in the Endowment fund is $1,264,678. This is a decrease of $134,520 from year end 2021 ($1,399,198). As you know we cannot spend the principal amount. We can only spend the interest earned. The amount available (interest earned) is $203,946. This was an increase of $5,568. The total amount available by category is as follows:
General $93,658 Music $45,565 Facilities $15,125 Missions $7,765 Scholarships $41,833
Last year we spent $41,270 to support projects. We purchased sound equipment and supported the Haiti Orphanage. The Fund paid $29,500 towards the repair of the elevator and supported pastor salaries for Sierra Leone. So far this year we spent $6,500 for a roof for our Haitian Orphanage. Contributions so far this year are $3, 634.
Past year contributions were,
2018 - $9,926
2019 - $17,282
2020 - $14,341
2021 - $5,338.
Please consider giving to the Endowment Fund. The Fund is very
important to support future church projects.
Thank you. Dave Stevens

Note: The Endowment Fund is separate from the operating/general church budget and the Trustees budget. Endowment usually supports items for which funds would not be available, or are outside the normal purview of the general church and trustee budgets.
Missions – Extend ministries including local, national and international activities.
Scholarship – To provide opportunities for students from FUMC to enter Ordained, Diaconal or Christian Education.
Music – To provide support for continuing and expanding the music program.
Facilities – To maintain and improve the physical condition and beauty of the church building, parsonage, and other properties.
General – To provide support income to be used in the general operation of the church: Salaries, supplies, educational, office equipment, etc., when needed.

 

Prayers for Healing

Vicky Leisher

Don Nolder

Sherrill Kessinger

Emmett Kessinger

Deanna Nolder

Deb Ewing

Bill Peerce

Cary Gibble
 Steve Hessong
Ron Diehl
Don Ardery
Tammy Miller (diagnosed with cancer)
Allen Fish (Recently diagnosed with Lyme's Disease)
Tina - [Helen Rice's daughter (cancer)]
Youth and Youth leaders returning from Impact
Prayers for Missions
We praise God because Karen Null's granddaughter, Abbey Null, arrived safely in Ukraine with a mission team to help prepare food parcels to be distributed to the people! Please pray for safety for her and all the other workers!
Prayers for Our World

Humanitarian Corridors in Ukraine.

For the protection and safety of the people in Ukraine.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Families, friends and the community of Uvalde, Texas.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Start of a new school year

Mission Experience (MX) 2023!

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

John & Bunny Parson
Larry & Avis Guise
Al & Linda Lojacono
Jack & Bette Bowers
Paul & Erma Collins
Bill & Thelma Peerce
Kirk & Kathy Paul
Chuck & Dianne Salter
Dave & Joan Kauffman
Ron & Mary Diehl
Sarah & Barry Baker

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

For Judy Peas' son-in-law, Fred Kraemer, for relief from pain due to his pancreatic cancer.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

 

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

July 29, 2022

In Traditional Service:

Pastor - Steven M. Livermore

Organist - Diaconal Minister  - Linda Peppernick

Scripture Reader -  Linda Peppernick

Worship Schedule

Traditional Service in Sanctuary at 9am

Sunday School at 10am

Contemporary Service in FLC (Family Life Center) at 11am

This Week's Member Spotlight

Meeting Now!

(BBS) Backyard Bible Studies

MX Bible Studies will meet at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday July 10th, 17th, 24th, & 31st as a follow-up to our Mission Experience evening discussions. Whether you attended MX or not, YOU are invited because this is for everyone! The studies will focus on our answer to two major faith questions “Who is God?” and “Who am I according to God?”  Check out the study here.

The following are hosts at various locations in and around the Chambersburg community:
Borough 1: Steven & Susan Livermore, 925 E. McKinley St.
Penn National: Bob & Becky Foor, 7037 Killarney Dr. Fayetteville
Shippensburg: Mike & Amanda Kirkpatrick, 10514 Mapleton Road, Shippensburg
Fayetteville: Chuck & Dianne Salter, 1198 Mountain Shadow West
Borough 2: Suzanne Everly, 910 Leidig Drive, Chambersburg
Hamilton Heights: Gail Vaughn, 1594 Norman Dr., Chambersburg
S. Hamilton: Ted & Amanda Bustline, 438 Lindman,  Chambersburg
Scotland: John+Lynn Hostetler, 3656 Glen Eagles Dr. Chambersburg.

Sign up sheets with tear-offs to contact hosts are in the Lobby.

Thank you for making MX 2022 an amazing week at FUMC!

We want your feedback!

And we want you to save the date for MX 2023: June 14-17, 2023!

 

NEW 6 WEEK BIBLE STUDY!

Meets at 10 o’clock in the resource room at the end of the staff hallway. It is a study of God's Kingdom from Genesis to Revelation: Guiding Light And Warmth, Satisfying food And Water, Loving relationships with God And Others, Purposeful work And Rest.

 

Choral Singalong

The Chancel Choir invites all singers and those who love to sing to join us this summer for a Choral Singalong.

We will meet in the choir room to sing together (for fun) Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm on the following dates:

  • August 17

Come when you can, no performance or membership required. Contact any choir member or Linda for further information.

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).

Great News!

Mail Service is up to only missing a day or two a week. We feel confident that tithes and offerings mailed to the church will arrive here safely. If you wish to send your contributions via mail, you are welcome to do so.

Traditional

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Pray with us Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

Cradle Roll is once again open to nursing mothers and families with little ones from 9am-12pm.

We are requesting donations:

  • Pack and Play sheets
  • double A and triple A batteries

We do need some work completed:

  • Power-wash Little Tikes tables, chairs and slides
  • Replace batteries in infant toys

Save the Dates!

August 16th and 18th Early Childhood Ministry Open House 5pm-6pm.

August 21 - Back to School Blessing at Memorial Park Bandshell 10am.

August 21 - Church Picnic at Memorial Park 11am.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth Ministry meets on Wednesdays from 6-8 pm, and on Sundays at 10am.

If you'd like more information, please contact Collin @xcultureyouth@gmail.com.

 

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

Egg Carton supply is full. We do not need egg cartons at this time.

The Clothing Mission is accepting donations of ALL season clothing during July.  As long as there is room in any of the bins in the lobby you may leave items.  The clothing mission has not scheduled appointments during July to allow for vacations  and rest for all our volunteers.  We have scheduled two work days  for July.  We are hoping to see regular volunteer, people from MX and any others who would like to help.  Those dates and times are:

Thursday, July 21st 10 AM—12:00 PM

Thursday July 28th 1 PM—3:00PM

Visit Hungry Hearts

Team Haiti/Missions

We want to keep you up-to-date on how the ministry is going in Haiti. These have been very difficult days, weeks and months in Haiti, which has had more than it’s share of trouble and tragedy. The gifts from members and friends of FUMC have helped to ease the struggles for many.

The School of Hope has been open and students have been taught on a regular basis. Some students have taken their standardized tests administered by the state education department. Your scholarship support has made this possible. We recently sent in the last 1/3 of the annual rent for the school facility. Annual cost is $9,000.

This year we have added a lunch program which costs $400 a month and supplements the food given by the government to provide lunch for 200+ students. Leftovers are sent home for other family members at the end of the-day. The school semester payment for each student is $140, which is required in the fall and spring. These scholarships not only pay for school supplies but also salaries for the teachers. Thank you for helping this year be a success at the School of Hope.

Mission Central is in need of Women's briefs, feminine hygiene items, hand and foot warmers, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant (men's and women's), small personal size shampoo and conditioner, new blankets, medical wound care supplies, school rulers, children's scissors, and all sizes of shoes.

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

New Seminar: Aug. 29  -  1:00 & 6:30 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Surviving the Holidays

Save the Date: Nov. 20   3:00 pm  in the Family Life Center.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Women Connect

Women Connect Facebook Group! All women in the church are invited to join!

UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect:

August 19, 2022 - at FUMC.  Guest Speaker - Renata Mosely

Worship at Memorial Park

August 21, 2022

10am -Blended service at Memorial Park.

No children or youth Sunday School.

Service will be followed by our annual church picnic!

200th Anniversary Celebration!

September 18 -Worship with our Bishop.

November 13 -Homecoming Worship with a luncheon.

Mission Experience (MX)

Save the date for MX next year: June 14-17, 2023!

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!

We are in need of volunteers to run sound for our 11am service. Training will be provided. If interested, please contact Zach Swan.

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Post-High/Young Adult Sunday School Class meets weekly on Sundays at 10:00! The class will meet in the lounge and will be led by Young Adults. Post-High young adults in their late-teens or in their 20’s are welcome as we read through the book “The Ninefold Path of Jesus: Hidden Wisdom of the Beatitudes”

Refugee Resettlement: Please contact Clint Bolte (717) 267-2157 to volunteer with helps for the family.  Donations can be sent to Congregation of the Sons of Israel, 209 East King Street, Chambersburg 17201—memo “refugee resettlement”.

Alter Flowers: Please return the vase liners to the church. Also, we are in need of someone to take charge of flowers. Contact Vikkie Eckert if interested.

Service

The 'Following Jesus by Serving People' form is available this morning next to today's worship folder. There is a box for you to return the completed form at the “Next Steps” counter.

Next Steps

Next Steps is the the counter area by the lobby high-top tables is the new spot for forms, information, devotionals, study guides, and sign ups.

 

 

Prayers for Healing

Vicky Leisher

Don Nolder

Sherrill Kessinger

Emmett Kessinger

Deanna Nolder

Deb Ewing

Bill Peerce

Cary Gibble
 Steve Hessong
Ron Diehl
Don Ardery
Tammy Miller (diagnosed with cancer)
Allen Fish (Recently diagnosed with Lyme's Disease)
Tina - [Helen Rice's daughter (cancer)]
Prayers for Missions
We praise God because Karen Null's granddaughter, Abbey Null, arrived safely in Ukraine with a mission team to help prepare food parcels to be distributed to the people! Please pray for safety for her and all the other workers!
Prayers for Our World

Humanitarian Corridors in Ukraine.

For the protection and safety of the people in Ukraine.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

For meaningful productive peace talks.

Wisdom for government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

For the children and babies in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Families, friends and the community of Uvalde, Texas.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

200th Anniversary Celebration

Mission Experience (MX) 2023!

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:
Shirley Jones
Mary Butts
Linda Leidig
Peggy
Lucille Lower
Jane Pensinger
Barb Armstrong
Susie Bulger
Kathy Beaston
Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

For Judy Peas' son-in-law, Fred Kraemer, for relief from pain due to his pancreatic cancer.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

 

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES