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Signpost Newsletter


The Signpost is the monthly newsletter of Bolton Congregational Church. Just click on a month to jump down the page and read that issue:

 

Contributions to the Signpost may be emailed to signpost@boltoncongregational.org.

 

Summer 2010

 

Join Us

Join us for our Annual Summer Program! This year the theme will be "Our Christian Neighborhood," answering the question “Who is My Neighbor?”

We will be learning about our neighbors both near and far through story telling, games, and as always, yummy food.

Volunteer helpers also are needed; those entering 7th grade and above can help. Please contact the church office at 860-649-7077 for details and to register or volunteer.

 

Annual Chicken Bar-B-Q Dinner

Saturday, July 17th -- Continuous Seating 5:00-7:00 p.m.  Half-chicken ($9.50) / Quarter-chicken  ($7.50); potato salad; coleslaw; cranberry sauce; dessert and beverage. Held at Chandler Hall, Bolton Congregational Church, 228 Bolton Center Road, Bolton. And, don’t forget to visit our Crafter’s Store for unique hand-crafted items and “previously loved” treasures while you're there!

To make reservations and purchase advance dinner tickets, please call the Church office at 860-649-7077.

 

The 6th Annual BCC Golf Tournament

Click here for more information and for a registration form.

 

From the Pastor…

Dear Disciples,

“You made me think…”

In my opinion, those are the finest words a preacher can hear.  Indeed these words constitute the highest compliment a worshiper can offer a preacher on the way out the door at the close of the service.

You see, for me the central goal of preaching is not to get you to see things my way, but rather to challenge you to come to your own understand-ing of how the teachings of Jesus impact your beliefs and actions. 

As I deliver a message on Sunday mornings and Thursday evenings, I often share how I came to a particular point of view on a subject. The purpose in doing that is not to get you to agree, but instead to present a process for coming to your own view.  Often, we may come to the same conclusion; how-ever that is never as important to me as being able to present a theological pathway for you to follow that will hopefully guide you to the joy of discovering how the Christian faith speaks to your own life and circumstances.

Last month, when I preached a sermon related to the First Cathedral-Enfield High School Graduation controversy, I heard “You made me think” a number of times.  In a few instances, this comment was followed by: 

“…and I disagree!” 

I would have to say that these are the second most beloved words a preacher can hear.  For these words challenge me to think as well, and there-fore my faith grows along with yours.  While I may have the benefit of a seminary education and years of day-to-day experience in the church environ-ment, that’s not all that is required for faith to mature.  Faith does not exist in a sterile, isolated setting.  It must interface with the real world and the lives and concerns of everyday people.  That’s where your experiences and life stories are so critical.  As you share your thoughts and feelings with me – even in disagreement – I become blessed with a perspective I had not known, and my faith is further shaped and enhanced. 

Thank you for thinking…disagreeing…and being part of this amazing, challenging, vibrant community of servants of God where together there is no limit to how deep and rich our faith can grow!  Please make worship a priority in your life this summer as we think, and sometimes disagree, about what it means to be “Real Christians” facing challenging issues in our world today.

Faithfully yours, Chuck

 

Legacy Corner—Gifting

Should I gift assets to my children?  Is it the best approach?  Many of your assets are worth less today than they were worth a couple of years ago.  This might be an ideal time to consider transferring ownership to other family members.

Gifted assets must be appraised in order to calculate the gift tax ramifications.  Although the federal estate tax is currently repealed for 2010, a federal and CT gift tax remains.  Gifts valued at $13,000 are too small, and do not even have to be reported.  Gifts in excess of $13,000 must be reported to the IRS and CT Tax Department, but may not create a current liability.  Spouses may combine their annual gift tax exclusion, and use $26,000 of exemption per recipient.  There is no limit to how many recipients you can use.  If you have 20 grandchildren, a married couple can gift $520,000 to the group without having to report anything.  Gifts in excess of the $13,000 exclusion reduce the amount of lifetime exemption available at death.  Large gifts which exceed the available annual exclusions and lifetime exemptions incur a gift tax (35% federal rate) payable on the following April 15th.

If the value of the gifted assets has declined in recent years, more assets can be gifted without exceeding these limits.  This is particularly helpful if parents are trying to protect their residence, farmland or vacation home from potential estate taxes or from the possible costs of future healthcare.

Although the tax laws are currently changing, the federal estate tax may reappear in 2011.  If so, the heirs of assets inherited at death receive an income tax basis equal to market value.  Even in 2010, the assets passing through most smaller estates also receive this step-up in income tax basis.  Yet generally assets received during lifetime by gift do NOT receive a change in income tax basis.  Thus when the children eventually sell the gifted assets, they will likely incur a larger income tax (capital gains) than they might have faced had they inherited the property from their parents.    

Gifting may also impact the donor’s ability to qualify for future medical assistance from the Medicaid program.  Be sure to carefully consider all of the implications for gifting before you take action.

When you meet with your attorney and tax advisors to discuss the merits of gifting, please remember to include the Bolton Congregational Church in your plans.  Take time to consider the spirit, fellowship and joys you have found by being part of our Church.  Please consider including the Bolton Congregational Church Endowment Fund as a beneficiary.  The Endowment Fund allows you the ability to target your gift to address the need you feel is most compelling.  Please consult the church’s website or speak to a member of the Legacy committee for the proper bequest language to use.  The Church always welcomes your gifts, now and in the future.  Please contact the Legacy Committee if you would like help including the Church in your estate plan.  Please call Ruth Treat or Bill Dakin.

 

Lobster Fest

All are invited to our Lobster Fest on Saturday, August 28, 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., at Bolton Congregational Church, 228 Bolton Center Road.

Dinner Includes:  Baked Potato, Corn on the Cob, Tossed Salad, Beverage, and Dessert

Reservations Requested: Call the Church office at (860) 649-7077 Before August 21st!

 

Summer Worship Schedule

Sunday, July   4 – 8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.           Communion Sunday
Message:  “Real Christians Aren’t Above Others”       Chuck Ericson

Sunday, July 11 – 8: 45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.           7th Sunday after Pentecost
Message:  “Real Christians Don’t Dismiss Science”       Chuck Ericson

Sunday, July 18 – 8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.           8th Sunday after Pentecost
Message: “Back to the Beach”       Jane Hooper    

Sunday, July 25 –  8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.           9th Sunday after Pentecost
Message: “Real Christians Don’t Take the Bible Literally”       Chuck Ericson  

Sunday, August 1  – 8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.               Communion Sunday
Message:  “Real Christians Don’t Force Their Faith on Others”        Chuck Ericson

Sunday, August 8 – 8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.       11th Sunday after Pentecost
Message:  “Jesus Revisited – Part I”           Jane Hooper

Sunday, August 15 – 8:45 & 10:00 a.m.             12th Sunday after Pentecost
Message:  “Jesus Revisited – Part II”       Jane Hooper

Sunday, August 22 – 8:45 & 10:00 a.m.         13th Sunday after Pentecost
Message from Special Guest Worship Leader Chris Davies    

Sunday, August 29 – 8:45 & 10:00 a.m.          14th Sunday after Pentecost
Message: “Real Christians Don’t Tithe”       Chuck Ericson

And remember…If you can’t make a Sunday service, or prefer something less formal, come to worship at our:

THURSDAY WORSHIP SERVICES

Let the summer months be a time for you to grow in your faith at Thursday Evening Worship from 7:00-7:45 pm!  Messages will be linked to the following popular songs:

Be enthusiastic!!  Bring an “unchurched” friend who might like a more contemporary service!

 

From the Desk of Our Commissioned Minister

Amazing! Thrilling!  We were eating our supper in front of the window that looks on the bird feeders.  All of a sudden, it was “Woodpecker Night.”  First came two pair of hairy woodpeckers, next came a pair of downy woodpeckers, then all of a sudden, swoosh!  In flies a male, red-bellied woodpecker with that magnificent red crown on his head.  Dye startled, said, “What is that?”  King woodpecker chased the other birds away and settled down to eat the cake of suet.  What a sight, this ten inch long blur of red was, with his long cylindrical tongue which is hard and pointed for spearing grasshoppers and beetles, and sticky with gluey saliva for lapping up ants.

I don’t know what has brought these different woodpeckers into my feeders, except that there is much dead wood in my trees, which is where woodpeckers love to nest and eat the wood-boring insects in them.  Whatever the reason for the coming of the woodpeckers (and all the rest of the different kinds of birds) they have brought us great joy and hours of interest in watching them.  Between the birds in our yard and the herons, ducks, and geese over at Walker’s Reservoir in Rockville/Vernon, Dye and I have become “birders” keeping track of them and their habits.

At the reservoir, along with the birds, I find myself talking with and keeping track of all kinds of people.  Many are fisherman – the older ones with great stories to tell of their years growing up in “old” Rockville.  One middle-aged man, I’ll call “Harry,” lost his job and most everything else, so he and his dog live in his van.  Listening to his story, how quickly we can go from “having” to “not having.”  “Harry” tells me how grateful he is to have fish to eat.  The love of his adult children, the affection and companionship of his dog, the public library where he reads the newspapers to keep up with local and national news, and his car, are a few of the items on his grateful list.

The other day I met an 85-year-old woman who has buried four husbands – one died from cancer, one from a heart attack, and two from old age.  She was so grateful for their love and the happy marriages they had.  This woman’s daughter would like her mother to move in with her, but the mother, grateful for her daughter’s love and concern, wants to stay in her own little apartment, because, “I have a whole lot of living to do yet and am currently dating again,” she shared with me.

The two U.S. female journalists who were arrested and detained by the North Koreans, due to the efforts of former President Bill Clinton and others, were recently released.  A reporter asked them how they had survived their captivity and one of them said, “Each night I thought of something I was grateful for.” 

Before us are the wonderful days of summer, which will pass all too quickly.  How will you spend them?  What will you be grateful for each night?   And if you are lucky and healthy to live to be 85, you too, will say, “I have a whole lot of living to do!

A summer of love and joy to each of you!

Shalom, Jane Hooper, Commissioned Minister

 

Men's Group Forming in September

First Meeting - Monday morning September 13, 7AM in the Church Meeting Room in the lower level of the Meetinghouse. Randy Bobb is looking for 5-6 other brave souls to explore any and all things of interest.  Let Randy Bobb or Pastor Chuck know if you have interest.

 

A Note from MACC

THE CHURCH MOUSE THRIFT SHOPPE in Manchester no longer has storage space available; they can now only accept seasonal clothing, and a limited amount of bed linens. They no longer accept books or bric-a-brac.

 

A Note From the Helping Hands

If a member of this church is in need of a meal(s), church members will provide one to them at their home.  Or, following a funeral service, a member can request a reception and Helping Hands will prepare and serve a small meal to the family and their friends in Chandler Hall.

All that is needed for this service to succeed is a donation (of time, a dessert, a main dish or simply a few dollars) at the time when you may be called.  This enables us to support those who are “close to home!” 

If you are willing to help out when an occasional need arises, please contact Donna Fisher and your name will be added to the list of Helping Hands.

 

"The Lemon Tree" Book Discussion

The Bolton Community Education Foundation (BCEF) will join with the Bolton Congregational Church to cosponsor a luncheon and book discussion on Sunday, October 24, 2010, from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm at the church's Chandler Hall, 228 Bolton Center Road in Bolton.

The book to be discussed is "The Lemon Tree: An Arab, a Jew, and the Heart of the Middle East," by Sandy Tolan. Publishers Weekly summarized the book this way: "Tolan offers an easy-to-follow journey through a maddeningly stubborn conflict that has infused global politics since the 1940s. Based on his 1998 NPR documentary, Tolan personalizes the Arab-Israeli conflict by tracing the intertwined lives of a Palestinian refugee named Bashir Al-Khairi and a Jewish settler named Dalia Eshkenazi Landau."

Present at the Oct. 24 discussion will be Yehezkel Landau, a professor at Hartford Seminary who is mentioned in the book. Landau is Faculty Associate in Interfaith Relations at Hartford Seminary. After earning an A.B. from Harvard University (1971) and an M.T.S. from Harvard Divinity School (1976), Landau made aliyah (immigrated) to Israel in 1978.  A dual Israeli-American citizen, his work has been in the fields of interfaith education and Jewish-Arab peacemaking. From 1991 to 2003, he was co-founder and co-director of the Open House Center for Jewish-Arab Coexistence in Ramle, Israel. He lectures internationally on Jewish-Christian-Muslim relations and Middle East peace issues, has authored numerous journal articles. At Hartford Seminary, Prof. Landau directs an interfaith training program for Jews, Christians, and Muslims called Building Abrahamic Partnerships.

To attend this free event, please register by calling the church office at 860-649-7077.

-- Cindy Fiano, Adult Christian Education

 

BCC Women's Weekend in Maine

The Women's Fall Weekend away has been scheduled for September 17-19, 2010, at the Doe Cottage in Ocean Park, Maine. This year's theme will be based on the labyrinth. If you are interested in participating in the weekend, please contact the church office.  Signup is open to the first 25 women that respond. All others will be put on the "Wait List."

-- Cindy Fiano

  

Christian Education News Update

Finally, my favorite time of the year…SUMMER!  If I could spend all my time on the beach I certainly would.  There is something so calming about the sound of the ocean waves as they crash on the sand.  To sink my toes in the sand and my nose in a good book…ahhh that is the way life is supposed to be.  I hope you are all enjoying your summers and taking some time to relax and take in the beauty all around you.

Here at church we are having summer church school.  This year we are doing different games each week.  We could still use some volunteers to run a week or more of the summer church school activities.  If you are interested please let me know.

Our Vacation Bible School program runs from August 9th – 13th.  This year our theme is Our Christian Neighborhood, answering the question “Who is my neighbor?”  All children from age 4 through entering 6th grade are welcome.  If you are able to help out with crafts or leading a group or being an assistant to a leader please let me know.  We are still in need of leaders for the 1st - 3rd and 4th – 6th grade groups.  We are also looking for somebody to run the grill for our Friday night cookout.

Please enjoy your summers and take some time to enjoy all of God’s gifts that are around you every day.  We will see you in Church.

-- Jessica Romeo, Director of Christian Education

 

Prayer Shawl Ministry

This knitting group usually meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. year round in the lower level of the Meetinghouse.  In the past several years we have provided more than 200 beautiful hand-knitted shawls for friends and family of our church.  We have been gratified by your interest and support during this time.  Members of our church family are welcome to request a shawl as a gift of caring, comfort, or for the joy of a celebration.  All are welcome to attend a meeting.  Just bring your knitting needles if you would like to learn.  We have a supply of yarn purchased with your generous donations to our ministry.  Come to knit, stitch, make fringe, or just to visit as we share in the joy of the comfort our gift will bring the recipient.

Thank you for supporting the squares for From the Heart for the month of June.  We are able to donate enough squares for a couple of blankets for children in foster care. Now we can pick up our Prayer Shawls again and resume knitting.   The need for squares for blankets is ongoing so if you would like to continue with it to use up extra yarn please do. They can be left in the box in Chandler Hall marked for Laura Ann.  Our regular meetings will continue through the summer on June 28, July 26, and August 23.  We look forward to seeing you there.  Visitors are welcome.

 

Check It Out…              

Bible Study will continue to be offered on a drop-in basis on Thursday nights to both men and women.  Please join us at each Thursday evening worship service where Bible Study will follow the service in the Church parlor.  This is your chance to discuss any topic.

Thursday evenings where there is no service, Bible Study will continue to be open to all from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., at the home of Dot Lessard (155 Brandy Street, Bolton).  You need not come every week! 

Come when you can for an ongoing discussion of different books of the Bible as well as the Bible in our lives today. We often enjoy dessert and coffee together and the conversation is lively.  Hope to see you there soon.

 

From the Heart 

During the summer we will be collecting pails and items relating to summer to fill them.  Some of the items are: kids sunglasses (even novelty ones), squirt guns, balls, activity books/crayons, beach towels, flip flops, hair accessories, small toys, (puzzles, cars, sidewalk chalk, etc.).  One item makes a big difference!

The July/August charity will once again be a collection of Back-to-School items for children in foster care or for families of little means.

We will be collecting:  backpacks that are new or in like-new condition (each child needs a backpack), insulated lunch bags, water bottles (not bottled water, but plastic bottles that can be refilled and used over & over again—the best ones have the pop-up drink spout so that they can’t leak in the backpack), pencils, paper, small toys, books, crayons, rulers, lined paper, notebooks and binders, erasers, pencil boxes, pencil sharpeners, etc.  

FROM THE HEART will supply the social workers with clear plastic bags filled with age/grade appropriate items.   This will allow a child to select the backpack of their choice (How special this is!) and then pick up a packet from the Social Worker for the grade that they will be attending. 

This has become an annual event with much support from church members, families and friends.  

Some of you love to shop the stores like Staples, Wal-Mart, Office Depot, etc. for all of their penny, nickel, dime and quarter items that are on sale during the summer months. We were able to “literally” donate a trunk load of school supplies for this project last year.

Some of you always donate backpacks (both new and in like-new condition) or money to purchase them. Last year we at BCC were again able to help with some monetary donations, which was of great assistance in back- pack purchases.  Laura Ann is able to purchase new, themed backpacks from a New York distributor for around $5.00 - $6.00 each. We also collected several more new and in like-new condition backpacks.  In all, we were able to make a huge contribution to the Backpack Project with FROM THE HEART being able to supply over 150!!  We hope that we are able to do as well this year.  We would like to thank you in advance for any support that you are able to give to this program.   It makes a huge difference in the lives of many young people.

We will be collecting these items throughout the summer months so please keep FROM THE HEART in mind when you are out shopping. One pencil box, one ruler, one 3-ring binder…together we can help many children. There will be a list of grade appropriate items on the bulletin board in Chandler Hall.  These lists are often supplied by schools and I have seen them posted at Staples, Office Depot, etc.

 If your children get “bored” during the summer months we would be happy to have them make greeting cards for the “Creative Cards” program. These are cards that can be requested for friends or family members for special occasions or for those in the hospital or nursing homes that you want to send a special greeting to.  It can be one time or ongoing.  These cards are especially well received when made by children—they are so adept at using different materials such as stickers, peel and stick foam decorations and the normal crayon, paint or colored pencils. Laura Ann also has many templates for cards that can be downloaded, printed and colored.  For more information regarding this project, templates, or requests, please e-mail Laura Ann.  You may leave completed cards in the FROM THE HEART box in Chandler Hall. Postage stamps are also always needed.

 

Crafters’ News

THE BCC Crafters continue to offer items from the Church Store on our church website. We post photos of some of our new and vintage items and attempt to make accurate descriptions to keep you informed of what is new and of interest to both our members and others who might visit our site.  All will be priced and a separate e-mail address has been set up for your convenience (www.bcc.chrchstr@gmail.com) where you may request additional information or photos. Some of the items that will be included are quilts, jewelry (including our prayer box bracelets and sterling silver), a selection of Dept. 56 items, glassware, flour sack fabric (of interest to any quilters that repair or work with vintage materials), and handcrafted items. If this is of interest to you, please check the website occasionally.

DON’T FORGET:  The BCC Time To Socialize/Crafters will continue to meet each Tuesday from 10:00 – 12:00 in Chandler Hall during the summer months.  Nancy is back for the summer so we will be doing lots of quilting!  All are welcome.  Come to craft, quilt, shop at the store, or just socialize over a cup of coffee.

DON’T FORGET:  The Store is open every Sunday morning after church.

DON’T FORGET:  We have many beautiful cards and items that can be used for gifts for any occasion.

Please remember that when there is no one to help you, the Store is operated on a self-serve basis.  There are two cans where you may deposit your checks or money.

We will continue to accept donations and they will be added to the Store on a weekly basis. Often, new items remain for a very limited period of time, as we are now also open to the public.

We have a donation receipt that you may need for tax purposes.  They are located on the bulletin board in Chandler Hall.  Feel free to take one and have it signed or request one from Lynn Ralston or the church office.

We will continue to support the FROM THE HEART programs during the summer, so if you have items to contribute please place them in the yellow and white checked box under the FROM THE HEART bulletin board in Chandler Hall. 

Also posted on the bulletin board will be the newsletter that FROM THE HEART prints each month to keep everyone up-to-date on their different programs that are new and ongoing.

-- Lynn Ralston, Crafters Group

 

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June 2010

 

Christian Education News Update

It is hard to believe that June is here.  Church School Sunday was fabulous!  The kids and teachers did a wonderful job preparing for that special day.  We had a great time at the all-church picnic afterward.  Thank you so much to all who helped make that a special day! 

Soon the kids will be out of school and summer vacations will begin.  In the craziness of the summer don’t forget that we are still here.  Even though formal church school has come to an end for this school year, Summer Church School is just beginning.  We are going to do several fun games and activities this year, so don’t miss out!  Summer Church School is available for Pre-K through those entering 6th grade in the fall.  If you are older, we could always use some help running the classes.  If you are interested in helping out this summer, please sign-up for a day or more on the sign-up sheet on the CE Bulletin Board in Chandler Hall.

In August we will be having our Vacation Bible School program.  This year it is “Our Christian Neighborhood,” answering the question:  “Who is my neighbor?”   In this issue of the Signpost you will see a registration form.  All children from age 4 through entering 6th grade are welcome.  If you are able to help out with crafts or leading a group, or if you have a special talent you would like to share with the children, please come see me.

Again I would like to say a big thank you to all the children, teachers and families who make this such a wonderful job to have. 

-- Jessica Romeo, CE Director

 

Check It Out

Bible Study will continue to be offered on a drop-in basis on Thursday nights to both men and women.  Please join us at each Thursday evening worship service where Bible Study will follow the service in the Church parlor. This is your chance to discuss any topic.

Thursday evenings where there is no service, Bible Study will continue to be open to all from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., at the home of Dot Lessard. You need not come every week! 

Come when you can for an ongoing discussion of different books of the Bible as well as the Bible in our lives today. We often enjoy dessert and coffee together and the conversation is lively.

-- Dot Lessard, Adult Bible Study

 

Join Us

Join us for our Annual Summer Program! This year the theme will be "Our Christian Neighborhood," answering the question “Who is My Neighbor?”

We will be learning about our neighbors both near and far through story telling, games, and as always, yummy food.

Volunteer helpers also are needed; those entering 7th grade and above can help. Please contact the church office at 860-649-7077 for details and to register or volunteer.

 

Annual Chicken Bar-B-Q Dinner

Saturday, July 17th -- Continuous Seating 5:00-7:00 p.m.  Half-chicken ($9.50) / Quarter-chicken  ($7.50); potato salad; coleslaw; cranberry sauce; dessert and beverage. Held at Chandler Hall, Bolton Congregational Church, 228 Bolton Center Road, Bolton. And, don’t forget to visit our Crafter’s Store for unique hand-crafted items and “previously loved” treasures while you're there!

To make reservations and purchase advance dinner tickets, please call the Church office at 860-649-7077.

 

Bill Calhoun 1st Annual Golf Classic

Date:  Friday, June 25, 2010
Time:  11:30am - 8:30pm
Location:  The Tradition Golf Club at Windsor
Sponsor:  The Hartford Courant is sponsoring this event
Registration: 11:30 - 12:45
Shotgun Starts: 1:00
Golf Format: 4 person scramble
Entry Fee: $100 per golfer (includes 18 holes, gifts, awards & BBQ)
Lunch not included in the price, however, is available for purchase

Proceeds from the 1st Annual Bill Calhoun Golf Classic will be donated to support the lives of the four Calhoun children thru Ford & Paulekas, Trustee for www.unclebilly.org. You are invited to register for a day of golf or to sign up for dinner only ($30). Donations in any amount are always welcome. As always, thank you for your generosity. If you are interested please email Alison Romkey for more information at: amromkey@emilyscottages.com.

 

Prayer Shawl Ministry

This knitting group usually meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. year round in the lower level of the Meetinghouse.  In the past several years we have provided more than 150 beautiful hand-knitted shawls for friends and family of our church.  We have been gratified by your interest and support during this time.  Members of our church family are welcome to request a shawl as a gift of caring, comfort, or for the joy of a celebration.  All are welcome to attend a meeting.  Just bring your knitting needles if you would like to learn.  We have a supply of yarn purchased with your generous donations to our ministry.  Come to knit, stitch, make fringe, or just to visit as we share in the joy of the comfort our gift will bring the recipient.

If you would like to request a shawl, please contact Dot Lessard or fill out a request form and leave it in the offering plate, or give it to any member of the prayer group.  Sometimes a shawl is ready, but if you would like to choose a special color, please allow one month knitting time.

For the month June, we will dedicate our time to making eight-inch squares for a From the Heart project. We can use up all of scraps of yarn, and help Laura Ann with her on-going mission. Please plan to put aside the shawl you are working on and complete some squares. Everyone and anyone can knit or crochet a square. Please come to this month’s meeting to get started. I will bring the yarn and knitting needles. Look forward to seeing you there.

- Dot Lessard, Prayer Shawl Ministry

 

Crafters News

The Crafters/Time to Socialize group will continue to meet throughout the summer months.  We meet on Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.  The Church Store will be open to the general public during these meetings and we encourage you to stop by.  We always have coffee and Danish and lots of socializing. 

Thank you to Jeannette Fetzer for her past donation of three plates that come from the Franklin Mint Woodland Year series produced in 1981. This series of 12 plates (one for each month) was a limited and signed edition.  The artist is Peter Barrett.  These plates have been featured on our church website for sometime now.  Last month we made a lady from New York City very happy when she found one of these plates.  She was looking to replace two plates that had been broken in her mother’s collection.  Ours completed her search and she was to present them to her mother as a birthday gift. She was extremely happy about discovering BCC, will shop with us again and has told her family about us. We made someone very happy.  She writes:

“Dear Lynn,

It was a pleasure talking with you and being an “out-of-state” customer!  I didn’t think I would be able to find the 2 missing plates as they are out of print already.  I was so delighted when I found your items in your church store website! …I think it is a great way to raise money for BCC and also a new way to reach out to people outside of your immediate area.  You never know what a simple item can do for a person.  I decided to give the plate to my mother early (I wanted to see her reaction!) so I will have to come up with another idea for her birthday!...I will probably visit the web store again & have already told my family about your church…

All the Best and God Bless, J….”

Now that our store is open to the public and we are reaching people through our church website, we will really need your donations.  We really would like you to leave your name on items that might fit into the vintage and collectible categories so that we can contact you if we are in need of further information regarding these items.  If you are knowledgeable in these areas, we would welcome your assistance in describing some of these items or letting us know if our descriptions are inaccurate.

-- Lynn Ralston, Crafters Group

 

Church Office Hours

The Church Office Hours will vary during the summer, due to vacation schedules, etc.  Please call ahead to make sure someone is here before you make the trip, or check the Sunday Bulletin each week for schedule updates.  Chuck will generally be in the office from Monday through Thursday.  Routine calls for Chuck should be made through the office at (860) 649-7077 (mornings are best).  In the event of an emergency, you may call Chuck at home or by cell phone.

 

Coming Soon… The 6th Annual BCC Golf Tournament

Save the Date!  September 11, 2010…Rain Date:  September 18, 2010…at Willow Brook Country Club in South Windsor…Registration is $85.00 and includes greens fees, cart, beverages, snacks and an all-you-can-eat lunch!

 

Worship Schedule For June

Sunday, June 6 – 8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
2nd Sunday after Pentecost       Confirmation Sunday        Communion Sunday
Message:          “Becoming Real Christians”        Chuck Ericson

Sunday, June 13 –  8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
3rd Sunday after Pentecost
Message:          “Real Christians Don’t Fear the First Amendment”   Chuck Ericson

Sunday, June 20 – 8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
4th Sunday after Pentecost           Tools of Hope               Father’s Day
Message:                       “Real Christians Don’t Judge”        Chuck Ericson

Sunday, June 27 –  8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
5th Sunday after Pentecost
Message:          “Real Christians Find Their Faith in Many Places”     Jane Hooper

Thursday Evening Services for June:

Thursday, June 3 – 7:00pm
Message: “Fireproof Faith” featuring the song “A Church is Burning” by Paul Simon

Thursday, June 17 – 7:00pm  (Communion)
Message: “Ministry in Everyday Life”, presented by our Adult Christian Education Director, Cindy Fiano, and featuring the song “What One Man Can Do” by John Denver

** Bring an “unchurched” friend who might like a more contemporary service! **

 

From the Pastor…

Dear Disciples, 

In this joyous season of high school and college graduations, a controversy has been brewing concerning plans for two Enfield high schools’ commencement ceremonies. 

As I write this message, a federal judge has just ruled that the schools cannot hold their upcoming graduation exercises at First Cathedral in Bloom-field, CT as originally planned.  At issue was the claim that the schools would be “endorsing religion by holding the ceremonies at the church” (Hartford Courant, May 25, 2010, page B1). 

But, as Arlo Guthrie once said, that’s not what I want to talk about…

What’s really on my mind is a statement in the Courant article from the chair of the Enfield school board, in which he said that in order to respond to the concerns, “he has a verbal agreement with church officials to cover up or remove religious symbols inside the church.”   In other words, to avoid losing the deal, the church leaders were willing to downplay the church’s Christian identity – in essence, denying its association with Jesus.

What struck me is how this illustrates what can happen when the business aspect of a church gradually, and innocuously, begins to overtake the spiritual focus of a Christian community.  Entering into business contracts, renting out facilities, providing supervision and perhaps security for non-church events, addressing legal matters that arise in relation to these activities and the additional financial management needed to oversee these things can easily lead to three results that are detrimental to the church: 1) less time and energy for congregants to devote to the church’s primary missions; 2) confusion about the church’s true focus; and 3) conflicts and misunderstandings that emerge as a direct result of people’s depleted resources and lack of focus.

This is why, from time to time, you may hear me warning us not to let the business aspect of church life overshadow our primary calling to bring God’s love and good news to all through Christian Education, missions, worship and service to our community.  This doesn’t prevent us from enjoying meaningful relationships with 12-step groups, a nursery school, scout and civic groups, a Buddhist sangha, and even the town of Bolton – all of whom use our facilities regularly or occasionally, without contracts or legal hassles or internal conflicts, and all of whom make free-will donations to cover the costs they incur by using our buildings and grounds.  And never have we “covered up” a cross, a Bible, or anything else. 

While there are some unavoidable business aspects to a church’s life, I hope you join me in praying that they never grow to the point of causing us to lose our spiritual center or tempt us to compromise who we are.

Faithfully yours, Chuck

 

From the Desk of Our Commissioned Minister

Some of the teenaged girls on the softball team noticed the cross I was wearing and said, “Wow!  I like your cross.  How come it seems to be dancing and where is Jesus?”  So I explained that Protestants don’t dwell on the crucified Jesus but rather, on the risen Jesus; therefore the cross is empty and mine is dancing!  Many years ago, a woman in my then Bible Study class, as a Christmas gift, made all of us “dancing crosses”; using stain glass as a medium.  Years before, at a retreat house, I had come across this image and was drawn to it.  Meditating, sitting at the foot of an “empty” big wall cross, I became mesmerized with its welcoming arms outstretched and it seemed to be dancing, calling me to follow. 

Rabbi Harold Kushner, a lecturer at some Hospice workshops, I was blessed to have attended, said that everything God has created is potentially holy.  Our task is to find that holiness in what appears to be unholy situations – in tragedies, life struggles, and in death.  When we can learn to do this, we will have learned to nurture our souls.  We need to remember that everything has God’s fingerprints on it.  When our life is filled with the desire to see the holiness in everyday things, something magical begins to happen. 

June is the month of the summer solstice, the longest daylight hours of the year in our Northern Hemisphere.  Death and the sleep of winter turns into new life.  The blue herons have returned to Walker’s Reservoir in Rockville.  On May 2nd, Dye and I saw two of them back from their winter hiatus.  With binoculars we have been keeping track of them and the ducks and geese there.  God’s fingerprints are on the baby geese, those little yellow fuzz balls, along with mother and father who care for them so carefully.  What lessons they can teach us humans.  Through four seasons, in all kinds of weather, we have watched God’s holy handiwork and what humankind has done to nurture or destroy it.

From the raked piles of leaves in my yard, I pick out the big fat earthworms and put them back into my gardens.  Did you know that the first European colonists brought earthworms with them to the New World?  They were carried here in the ships, hidden in the soil those vessels loaded as ballast and in the root balls of plants!  Holy, is the lowly worm and the work they were created to do. 

The “Good News,” along with the earthworm, is that Jesus came down off his cross to dance/walk with us through all the holiness of our days and nights, in both the good and the bad times. 

Happy Father’s Day!

Shalom, Jane Hooper, Commissioned Minister

 

From the Legacy Committee

Don’t Forget...you can’t take it with you.  When you pass on, your assets will pass to others.  It is important to understand the legal mechanisms at play, to be sure that your assets pass as intended.

Although a properly prepared Will is an important part of the plan to distribute assets, it does not control the disposition of all assets.  A Will only controls the disposition of assets held solely by the decedent.  A Will should include instructions on how these individually owned assets will be allocated among your family, but will also contain rules for administering the estate through the probate process.

Most spouses own the majority of their assets in joint names with the right of survivorship.  Typically the residence, vacation home, bank accounts, stock certificates, brokerage account, investments and vehicles are held in survivorship.  Immediately and automatically upon the death of one of the joint owners, the surviving joint owner owns the entire asset.  The Will does not alter this result.  Joint assets do not require probate administration.

Some assets are owned individually, but include the opportunity to designate the person(s) to receive this asset upon the death of the owner.  These assets provide for the designation of a primary and a contingent beneficiary.  These designations take priority over the provisions of a Will.  These assets pass immediately at death to the designated beneficiary without the need for probate.  Examples of these assets are life insurance, IRAs, retirement benefits and annuities.  If you own these types of assets, you should periodically review and confirm your existing beneficiary designation.  Oftentimes, the designations are “stale” and may not reflect your current wishes.  Be sure to update your beneficiary designations when updating your Will; the designations should be consistent with your Wills.  Occasionally, the financial institution will lose your designations, particularly when financial institutions merge.

There is a similar technique involves ITF (in trust for) accounts and POD (payable on death) designations.  These assets are individually owned, but pass automatically to the person(s) named in the designations.  Examples include cash accounts, brokerage accounts and US savings bonds. 

When you meet with your attorney and tax advisors to discuss the division and distribution of your assets, please remember to include the Bolton Congregational Church in your plans.  Take time to consider the spirit, fellowship and joys you have found be being part of our Church.  Please consider including the Bolton Congregational Church Endowment Fund as a beneficiary.  The Endowment Fund allows you the ability to target your gift to address the need you feel is most compelling.  Please consult the church’s website or speak to a member of the Legacy committee for the proper bequest language to use.  The Church always welcomes your gifts, now and in the future.  Please contact the Legacy Committee if you would like help including the Church in your estate plan.  Please call Ruth Treat or Bill Dakin.

 

From the Heart

How many of you have found just how little effort it takes to make a huge difference in the life of another?  “Many hands make light work.” We, at BCC, have the unique opportunity to have the ability through all of the projects that From The Heart is involved with each and every month to do just that!  Many of you have found special talents, gifts and resources that you have been willing to share for years now. Sometimes it is a like-new toy, or book, some crayons, items to fill gift bags or pails that go to youngsters that are in the Dept of Children and Families Program.  Sometimes it is clothing that helps to support the DARE program in East Hartford’s clothing store where families of little means or foster children and families are able to pick out their own clothing.  Sometimes it is a donation of Big Y coins that help to pay for Happy Face balloons, silk flowers to make floral arrangements in the Spring, pumpkins in the Fall and/or artwork that are all delivered to Woodlake Nursing Home along with a visit from both adults and children.  Many of you knit, crochet or sew and make blankets, scarves, mittens, and Squares for Care. Letters have been written to soldiers and pops have been purchased in order to send packages to the From The Heart adopted soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq. Backpacks and back-to-school items have been donated during our summer months for the DCF children so that they are able to return to school in September with the necessary “equipment” and confidence. And, sometimes it is to help Communitas support a family or child with a special need.

There is no doubt that most of our Congregation has donated something to these projects and along with many other people and organizations, we have all together made a huge impact.

So much so, that you will be happy to know that, as Laura Ann says, “Because of all of the efforts of so many,” From The Heart was nominated and won the 2010 Community Partner Award from the Connecticut Association of Foster and Adoptive Parents (CAFAP).  As Laura Ann says, “This award belongs to all of you.”

It was a day of sharing with Foster Parents who make a difference everyday as well as hearing from the agencies of how much they appreciate all of the donations that we all make and donate on a monthly basis. It truly validated just how much our support  (whether it be time, talent or treasures) makes a difference in the life of others.  No gesture of kindness is ever too small- a smile, a handshake, a “hello”, pat on the back or visit that just happens at the perfect time does more than you will ever know.

FROM THE HEART is filling pails in June.  They are looking for pails that are already filled or just pails and/or an item or two to fill them.  They are hoping to fill 100! If you are interested in supporting this months project you will find information on the From the Heart bulletin board in Chandler Hall.  Also posted will be this month’s newsletter, which also includes various ways that you can get involved in many of the ongoing programs that they offer.

Thank you to everyone for your support. It takes all of us to make this endeavor a success.

 

2010 Back Bay Mission Workcamp Notes

SHAREHOLDERS’ APPRECIATION DINNER set for June 12th at 5:30pm.

If you supported our recent mission trip to Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Mississippi by purchasing a “share” in the trip or contributing other financial assistance, you are cordially invited to a dinner in your honor on Saturday, June 12, from 5:30-7:00pm in Chandler Hall.   It’s our way of saying “thanks” and will feature a special video presentation, a chance to talk with some of our “workcampers” about our experiences, and enjoy a delicious southern-style dinner!  Please RSVP to Chuck so we will be able to plan for the meal.  You may call 860-649-7077 or email to: chuck.ericson@boltoncongregational.org.

FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE MISSION TRIP

In response to a couple of requests, the following is a summary of the fund-raising results of the mission trip to Biloxi. It is worth noting that the sale of shares and the income from church dinners far exceeded our estimated amount.  Thanks to all who supported the mission trip in every way!

INCOME                                                ESTIMATED                            ACTUAL

Balance from previous mission trips         $  2,510.63                                $  2,520.50

Participant registration fees                     $  9,300.00                                $  9,360.00

Sale of Shares                                       $  4,200.00                                $  5,133.36

Church Dinners                                     $  3,589.37                                $  4,989.89

Special Gifts & Reimbursements            $  3,050.00                                 $  2,466.00

TOTAL:                                                 $22,650.00                                $24,469.75

 

“Lasting Impact”

From Dylan Driver’s Bolton High School Senior Demonstration Project

I would say that out of everything I have done in my life, these two trips to Biloxi have been two of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. I was awe struck when I first arrived in Biloxi because I had never seen such devastation. When I left, I felt like a whole new person because I knew that I had helped people in an area who had been through devastation of homes and their community.

Going on these trips made me look at life with a new perspective. Whenever I hear people, even myself, complain about little, or minor issues and occurrences, I stop to think about those who have dealt with major problems in their lives. I believe they must feel grateful to have a home to go to at night. To be a part of the reason that those people can go back home feels amazing. I would advise anyone who wants to know that feeling of gratification to go out and do something for their own community. It does not even have to be their community, and instead can be any community at all.

To conclude, participating in community service will benefit you. You will feel like a better person and know that you are doing something that makes a difference in the lives of others. To me, there is no better feeling out there.

 

"Wednesday at the Micah Center"  

A poem by Ian Macdonald based on an experience at Back Bay Mission’s community drop-in center

So many faces,
So many stories.
Some call them the world’s trash,
But I say
None in the world are greater.

Eyes that know what it’s like
To be cast aside, forgotten.
To watch their entire life get
Washed away—not quickly—
But slowly and painfully.

A mouth like an old piano,
Missing some of its white, ivory keys,
Retaining a few of its black ones.
A mouth that knows what it’s like
To not eat for days,
To get punched and beaten in a scrap
Over a piece of bread.

Hair so greasy and messy that
A pile of weeds would look nicer.
Hair that has forgotten the feel of a pillow,
Too used to park benches and cement.
The short fifteen minute shower
Is not nearly enough to wash away a
Lifetime of memories.

Hands like dried mud,
Cracked and worn from years of
Trying to make something
Out of nothing.

The small gap formed when they close
Is still missing something,
Five years after they failed to hold on,
Saw their child dragged below,
Into the waters of Katrina.

Shoes, well, at least technically,
Ripped to shreds from countless miles
Of wandering,
So formed to the feet
That owner and leather
Have become one.

But not once, in the
Three hours I observed
This broken soul,
Did I hear a complaint, a whine,
A moan, nothing.  He
Just rolled with life’s punches.

I’ll never forget him,
Or the first thing he said to me.

He walked into the door, and
Nonchalantly nodded his head.
I returned the gesture, asked
“How’s it goin’?” And
With a smile, he replied
In a lazy, Southern drawl,
“Still livin’ and breathin’.”

 

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May 2010

 

Bill Calhoun 1st Annual Golf Classic

Date:  Friday, June 25, 2010
Time:  11:30am - 8:30pm
Location:  The Tradition Golf Club at Windsor
Sponsor:  The Hartford Courant is sponsoring this event
Registration: 11:30 - 12:45
Shotgun Starts: 1:00
Golf Format: 4 person scramble
Entry Fee: $100 per golfer (includes 18 holes, gifts, awards & BBQ)
Lunch not included in the price, however, is available for purchase

Proceeds from the 1st Annual Bill Calhoun Golf Classic will be donated to support the lives of the four Calhoun children thru Ford & Paulekas, Trustee for www.unclebilly.org. You are invited to register for a day of golf or to sign up for dinner only ($30). Donations in any amount are always welcome. As always, thank you for your generosity. If you are interested please email Alison Romkey for more information at: amromkey@emilyscottages.com.

 

Mangia for MACC!

Dine at Rocco’s & Show Your Support for MACC Charities

MACC Charities is a 501c3 non-profit that provides food, clothing, shelter and advocacy to those in need in the Greater Manchester area. As a Board Member of MACC, I am excited to announce that we have set-up a special partnership with Rocco’s, a delicious local Italian Restaurant in Manchester. Starting the week of April 26th and ending the week of June 23rd Rocco’s will donate 10% of its proceeds to MACC Charities from 4PM-10PM on Monday nights and Wednesday nights!

This is a great opportunity to support an emergency services/basic human needs non-profit and enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant. I hope you will consider coming to eat at Rocco’s a few times on Monday and Wednesday nights, and get to meet others in our community that loves what MACC does for our neighbors in need.

You can also become a fan of MACC Charities on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Manchester-Area-Conference-of-Churches-MACC-Charities/264541409186?ref=ts, contribute directly to MACC online at http://www.macc-ct.org/donateonline.html or mail in a tax deductible contribution to MACC Charities, PO Box 3804, Manchester, CT 06045-3804 to support the life-saving work we do.

Your support means a lot to me, but more importantly, means so much to the people in need whom MACC serves. Please also forward this to friends, family, co-workers and anyone else who may be interested in supporting a great cause, or just enjoying a great meal!

Please remember - you have to say you are there to support MACC in order for us to get the % of your meal.

Thanks again for your support.

All the Best, Beth Stafford, Executive Director, MACC Charities, (860) 647-0440, www.macc-ct.org  

 

Christian Education News Update

It is very hard to believe that another year of Church School is coming to an end, but sure enough May is here.

We will end yet another wonderful Church School year on Sunday May 23rd.  This will be our annual Church School Sunday Service.  The Church School students will be in charge on this day and they have great things planned for us.  The teachers will be working with them each week on their grade level objectives and preparing for Church School Sunday.  Please remember on May 23rd there will only be a 10:00am service.  The students will have a rehearsal at 8:30 that day to prepare for the service at 10:00am.

Also on May 23rd is our Church School Picnic.  This picnic will immediately follow the service.  This is a picnic for the entire congregation.  Please, if you are interested sign up on the sign up sheet in Chandler Hall or use the inserts found in your bulletin.  We just ask that you bring a side dish or a dessert.  It is very important that you sign up if you plan on attending so we know how many hotdogs and hamburgers to purchase.

Summer Church School will begin on June 6th.  We will be doing something different each week.  I am hoping we will even get to spend some time outside with the children.  On some weeks we will need two sets of teachers because the activities may be a little more difficult for the Pre-K students.  The sign up sheet is up in Chandler Hall please take a moment and pick a date to sign up.  Please don’t be intimidated to teach.  It really isn’t even teaching in the summer it is just playing right along with the children while you all learn a little more about the Bible.  If you have any questions about this please let me know.

Our Summer Program this year will be “Our Christian Neighborhood”.  It will run from August 9th – 13th.  We will be taking a tour of our Christian Neighborhood from local to national to global.  We will be learning all about what we can do to help our earth and those who live on it by being good Christians.  We will be doing this by reading bible verses and hearing inspir-ational stories each night.  Of course there will be snacks, crafts and games to make each night even that much more fun!  As always it will end with a cook-out on the last night.  Watch next months Signpost for a registration form.  If you would like to help out by being a group leader please see me.

Lastly I would like to take a moment to say thank-you to all who make our Church School so wonderful.  To our entire congregation who always come together and make whatever mission we decide to do a successful one.  To our students who come prepared each week to learn all they can about the Bible and are never afraid to ask questions.  To the parents who make sure their children are hear each week and help reinforce what they learn in class.  Last but definitely not least, thank you to all of our dedicated teachers.   You all are so great to work with and you make my job so easy.  If I need something you are all so willing to help out.  Thank you all so much for the wonderful jobs you do with our students!

-- Jessica Romeo, Director of Christian Education

 

Check It Out… Adult Bible Study

Bible Study will continue to be offered on a drop-in basis on Thursday nights to both men and women.  Please join us at each Thursday evening worship service where Bible Study will follow the service in the Church parlor.  This is your chance to discuss any topic. 

Thursday evenings where there is no service, Bible Study will continue to be open to all from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., at the home of Dot Lessard.  You need not come every week! Come when you can for an ongoing discussion of different books of the Bible as well as the Bible in our lives today. We often enjoy dessert and coffee together and the conversation is lively.

-- Dot Lessard, Adult Bible Study

 

Prayer Shawl Ministry

This knitting group usually meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. year round in the lower level of the Meetinghouse.  In the past several years we have provided more than 150 beautiful hand-knitted shawls for friends and family of our church.  We have been gratified by your interest and support during this time.  Members of our church family are welcome to request a shawl as a gift of caring, comfort, or for the joy of a celebration.  All are welcome to attend a meeting.  Just bring your knitting needles if you would like to learn.  We have a supply of yarn purchased with your generous donations to our ministry.  Come to knit, stitch, make fringe, or just to visit as we share in the joy of the comfort our gift will bring the recipient.

If you would like to request a shawl, please contact Dot Lessard or fill out a request form and leave it in the offering plate, or give it to any member of the prayer group.  Sometimes a shawl is ready, but if you would like to choose a special color, please allow one month knitting time.

For the month June, we will dedicate our time to making eight-inch squares for a From the Heart project. We can use up all of scraps of yarn, and help Laura Ann with her on-going mission. Please plan to put aside the shawl you are working on and complete some squares. Everyone and anyone can knit or crochet a square. Please come to this month’s meeting to get started. I will bring the yarn and knitting needles. Look forward to seeing you there.

- Dot Lessard, Prayer Shawl Ministry

 

From The Heart…

Do you remember Communitas? We sold items from our Church Store at their store, The Community Place, that was located on Main Street for several years until they closed.  They donated several display racks to us and many, many new cards as well as shopping at our Store.  This non-profit organization is located at MCC.  They work one-on-one with families that have individuals with disabilities as well as “building positive and inclusive communities locally while acting in solidarity with like-minded people and organizations globally.”  They have been partnering with From The Heart for some time now.

Last month they went with From The Heart to Woodlake Nursing Home in Tolland where Laura Ann and all of her volunteers made their yearly spring visit and made 80 residents extremely happy when they arrived with silk flower arrangements, happy face balloons, artwork for their doors and their all time favorite –visits from the children.  Communitas added a very special event.  They brought a couple called “Daybreak” who performed for over an hour playing and singing oldies for the large group. They were so excited –they did not want them to stop playing!!

This month From The Heart is helping Communitas assist a family that has a child with several disabilities.  The family has started a small bakery (creative-organics.com) to raise money to provide the care it will take to help Grayson reach his full potential everyday.  Communitas and From The Heart are reaching out to the community in an effort to make people aware of an opportunity to not only purchase cookies that are fun and easy to make with any child but to know that your purchases will be a blessing to a family who is trying to do what they can to assist their child.

Sometimes, stopping and hearing or reading about someone’s huge obstacles and struggles in their life give us the perfect opportunity to make a huge difference in the life of another. And, often times as in this case, it does not cost anymore than if we just went to our local grocery store and bought cookies. It is an opportunity to show kindness to a stranger in need and, also, to know of a “new bakery in town” with a specific purpose,

I will post copies of Laura Ann’s letter regarding “Cookies for Grayson” and order forms on the From The Heart bulletin board in Chandler Hall.  For the month of May, Laura Ann will accept orders and will pick up and deliver orders to save everyone the shipping charge (or, if you would rather, you can order directly from the bakery and pay the shipping chg).  You may give order forms and check to Lynn Ralston, Mary Lou Prescher or contact Laura Ann directly. Each bag costs $6.00-please make checks out to From The Heart.

Thank you to everyone who donated items for the Woodlake Nursing Home visit. Thank you to everyone who has donated money for shipments to the adopted soldiers, for items for the DCF gift bags, Easter items, and for cards and letters to the soldiers.

Thank You For Everything! Your continued generosity overwhelms us!  We have supported from the heart for many years not and your donations just keep coming.  Thanks for everything you do and your huge capacity for compassion and kindness to others.

-- Lynn Ralston, For From the Heart

 

Crafters News

Our sign is up!  The Church Store is now open on Tuesday mornings from 10:00 – 12:00 for members and people in our community.  The sign has been up for about 3 weeks and we have already had two visitors.  One from town and one from Columbia.

We are always looking for donations for the store.  We have several sections in the store.  We have used books, vintage, hand-crafted items including greeting cards, Grandma’s attic items including some household and presently a collection of new sterling silver jewelry.  We aim to provide you with good quality merchandise at reasonable prices.

This is one more way that you are able support your church without the “OUCH” factor.  Perhaps you make a donation, perhaps you buy a gift for someone for a special occasion, perhaps you find a gift for yourself or something that you could use in your home.  These are all ways that are win-win for both parties. 

If you leave donations, please make sure that they are clean and in good condition.  Also, it would be nice if you could leave your name and phone number so that if we have questions about an item we will have someone to ask.  AND, we will be able to offer you a donation receipt that you can use for tax purposes. .We appreciate your suggestions or requests for us to look for items for you. Thank you for your continued support.  You all make it happen!

-- Lynn Ralston, Crafters Group

 

A Note From the Helping Hands

If a member of this church is in need of a meal(s), church members will provide one to them at their home.  Or, following a funeral service, a member can request a reception and Helping Hands will prepare and serve a small meal to the family and their friends in Chandler Hall.

All that is needed for this service to succeed is a donation (of time, a dessert, a main dish or simply a few dollars) at the time when you may be called.  This enables us to support those who are “close to home!” 

If you are willing to help out when an occasional need arises, please contact Donna Fisher and your name will be added to the list of Helping Hands.  

If you know of a BCC member in need who would appreciate a meal, please let us know.

-- Donna Fisher, The Helping Hands Team

 

Spring Clean-up Day

Please pitch-in on May 8th for the Spring Clean-up Day sponsored by the Board of Stewardship. There is plenty to do, and many hands make quick work. Time: 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.

 

Thank You To Our BBM Shareholders

Thank you once again for supporting the Bolton Congregational Church mission trip "workcamp" to Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Mississippi. As you may know by now, our plans to have daily updates on a YouTube site were frustrated by unexpectedly sluggish internet service at our Back Bay Mission base. Now that we have returned, all of Aurora Hooper's creative and skillfully edited videos of our daily labors and other experiences have finally been uploaded and are available for you to see. Please do check them out at http://www.youtube.com/user/BackBayMission2010. We are in the process of scheduling a date for our "Shareholders' Appreciation Dinner" and will let you know when the date is set. We hope you will be able to join us!  

-- Chuck

 

Worship Schedule For May

Sunday, May  2 – 8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
5th Sunday of Easter     Communion Sunday
Message:  “The Church and Social Justice          Chuck Ericson

Sunday, May 9 –  8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
6th Sunday of Easter     Mothers’ Day
Message:  “The Parable of the Sower”         Chuck Ericson

Sunday, May  16 – 8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
7th Sunday of Easter
Message: “Leaving a Legacy of Faith”    Jane Hooper 

Sunday, May  23 –  10:00 a.m. (ONE SERVICE ONLY TODAY!)
Pentecost Sunday          Church School Sunday
Message:   “Special Church School Presentation”     Church School Teachers & Students

Sunday, May  30 –  8:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.
Memorial Day Sunday
Message:   “Who Created God?”      Chuck Ericson

Thursday Evening Services for May:

Thursday, May   6 – 7:00pm
Message: “Good Day!”, featuring the song “Days Like This” by Van Morrison

Thursday, May 20 – 7:00pm  (Communion)
Message: “Right Where I Belong”, featuring the song “In the Palm of Your Hand” by Alison Krauss and Union Station 

** Bring an “unchurched” friend who might like a more contemporary service! **

 

From the Pastor…

“Now, there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone.  To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (I Corinthians 12:4-7)

Dear Disciples,

Each mission trip we have taken over the years has been a unique experience.  Often it is the homeowners we meet who make the week especially memorable.  Sometimes it is the dramatic circumstances surrounding the trip that shape our memories of the experience – as it was the year we ventured to Biloxi, MS just months after hurricane Katrina.

As I have been reflecting on our recently completed workcamp to Back Bay Mission, my thoughts have been drawn to the verses above written by Paul to the early Christian church in Corinth.  While I am always inspired by the extra-ordinary dedication of our adults and youth as they labor long hours in challenging conditions to help restore the homes of poor, elderly and disabled residents of the gulf coast, I was further inspired this year with the manner in which the “variety of gifts” was evident in our group:

What a joy and inspiration it was indeed, to witness dedicated and humble servants from our congregation offering their “gifts of the Spirit” for the common good!  May we all carry on in this same way here at home!

Faithfully yours, Chuck

 

From the Desk of Our Commissioned Minister

“For years I never knew – whether the twilight was the ending of the day or the beginning of  the night – and then – suddenly one day I understood – that this did not matter at all -  for time is but a circle – and so there can be no beginning and no ending – and this is how I came to know that birth and death are one – and it is neither the coming or the going that is of consequence – what is of consequence is the beauty that one gathers in this interlude called life.”  Winston O. Abbott

Time is but a circle – and the seasons seem to chase each other, faster and faster.  I suspect this happens the older one gets.  Last month the last two of my father’s sister-in-laws died, Aunt Aurelia was 97 years and Aunt Grace was 91.  Aunt Aurelia went as she lived – quietly and with dignity, buried on a snowy, icy day.  Aunt Grace died, still the matriarch of her large Polish family who were all in attendance right down to her four month old great-grandson, Matthew, who was baptized two days after she died.  Aunt Grace had had her hair done and was all set to attend this momentous occasion.  She was buried in the warm sunshine with all her family around her and baby Matthew “talking” away as the priest sprinkled the holy water.  Looking down, as I stood there by her coffin, there at my feet, was the remains of a baby robin’s egg shell.  In the tree above us, I could hear the babies in the nest clamoring for worms. 

Later over lunch, we talked about how we were now into the grandchildren generation – seventeen of us – with me being the oldest female grandchild.  How quickly life changes or is it that we are so busy getting through the day, that one day turns into the next and we miss precious moments, if we don’t make the time to stop and really notice life ‘s special gifts. 

The trees are bursting with buds and leaves of many shades of green and red.  Tulips and daffodils and all the other early spring flowers have popped up through the ground.  Cherry and apple trees, magnolia and forsythia are dancing in the breezes.  The birds are chirping while the squirrels are running around.  In the woods, the brooks are alive, swollen with racing waters.  Skunk cabbage is poking its head up.  Behind the church, the “peepers” are singing their song, “Spring is here!”

Here on the patio, my dog Tucker, is lying in the warm sunshine, waiting for me to come out and play.   “O God, how full of wonder and splendor You are!  I see the reflections of Your beauty and hear the sounds of Your majesty where ever I turn.”  Psalm 8

Happy Mother’s Day!

Joy and Shalom, Jane Hooper, Commissioned Minister

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