1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity

Jordan United Church of Christ
Joy of Jordan
Volume 53, Issue 7
J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 0 1 4
From Your Senior Pastor
We were on vacation last
year and I was reading
USA Today. The headline caught my eye.
“Hotels tell guests they
can sleep in on Sundays.” “A growing number of hotels are granting
travelers a reprieve from the oppressive
11 a.m. checkout on Sundays, when
they have fewer guests checking in to
take over the rooms.” I realize that the
second clause in the sentence was really the topic of the remainder of the
article, but as a minister, it was that
phrase “oppressive 11 a.m. checkout
on Sundays” that got my attention.
You’ve got to be kidding, right?
was, until somewhat recently, a hallmark of American life. But adults are
even divided on the importance of attending church with 49% saying it is
“somewhat” or “very” important, and the
other 51% saying it is “not too” or “not
at all” important. Especially among the
“Millennial” generation (those 30 and
under) is this true. Only two in ten believe church going is important, and
59% of those who grew up in the
church have dropped out at some point.
More than half of those who are under
30 haven’t been to church in at least six
months. Although the motivation for
those attending worship regularly is “to
be closer to God,” the top two reasons
unchurched Americans said they didn’t
think attending church was important
Well, no. Although the point of the arti(across age and denomination): “I find
cle was the flexibility for late checkouts
God elsewhere” (40%) and “Church is
as a relatively low cost benefit for hotel
not relevant to me personally” (35%).
guests, there was a deeper reality
In 2004, 43% of Americans said they
which was unnamed here. That is, for
attended church regularly. In the most
many Americans, attending Sunday
recent Barna poll, 36% identified themmorning services are increasingly less
selves in this way. A changed reality I
important for their spiritual lives. When
have certainly noticed at Jordan is that
the Barna Group last year asked Ameriin the recent past, regular churchgoers
cans what, if anything, helps them grow
were those who attended at least three
in their faith, the answers included
Sundays a month. Now those who will
prayer, family or friends, reading the
say they are regular church attenders
Bible, having children, but the church
may only come every four to six weeksdid not even crack the top ten list! Are
--and we are feeling that trend keenly in
you surprised? The Church is really
Sunday School, where it is difficult for
not “the only game in town” anymore.
teachers to plan with such sporadic
When once we needed to actually get
attendance patterns among families
up and drive to worship, now we can
with school-aged children.
watch live stream services and podcasts of sermons online. When once
The church, Bishop Will Willimon
Hackman’s was the only place to get a (speaking in March 2007 at Moravian
Bible, we can now have an entire colTheological Seminary) is geared to
lection of Bible translations on our
bolting everything down, in order to
phones. I’m not suggesting this
gain a sense of stability. That worked
changed reality is better, but it certainly in the past—just check out our pews —
IS different, and we have more Chrisbut the metaphor is no longer working.
tian resources at our fingertips than
Outsiders often see the church as rigid
ever before—with 24 hour Christian
and inflexible. And while many of us
music radio and television stations
have fond memories of growing up in
available.
the life of the church (some Allentown
churches even had their own basement
Church involvement and participation
bowling alleys in the 1950’s!), the
Inside this issue:
Treasurer’s Report
2
Wally’s World
3
From Pastor Alice
4
St. Luke’s Clothing Drive
4
Mark Your Calendars
5
Spiritual Growth
5
Koinonia Calendar
6
Volunteer Opportunities
6
Church School
6
Prospective Confirmands
6
Weird Animals VBS
7
Book Club
8
Knit for Kids
8
Teach Jordan’s Kids
8
Musical Notes
9
Book Bag Drive
9
Prayers & Squares
10
3M Trips
10
Volunteers are Disciples
10
Crosses for Liberia
10
Autumn Glory Bazaar
11
Basket Social
11
Community Events
12
Peace Garden
12
Sponsorships
13
Reading Rebels
13
Happy Birthday!
13
Volunteer Opportunities
13
Contact Information
14
Calendar
15
Page 2
church cannot remain a household
of sentimentality. Whether or not
we “like” it, change is necessary
and will happen as the church continues to adapt not the timeless
message of the gospel, but the way
in which we present this “treasure in
earthen vessels” (2 Corinthians 4:7)
This is an issue we need to deal
with. We are already discussing
worship styles and particularly what
kind of music will most help us glorify God in our day and age? We
need to think about realigning our
staffing to create a position for a
worship director to assist us in
growing our proposed third service—an alternate style of worship,
somewhat like we experienced with
our Saturday evening service. How
about an online giving program right
from our increasingly interactive and
outward directed web presence?
We need to invest in updating our
Sunday School rooms with more
technology, and reviewing the overall program. What is our desired
outcome with the children, youth,
and adults who attend—involving
about 100 folks on any given Sunday? We need to offer more training on how to be
invitational to
those who are
searching for a
deeper relationship with Christ
and don’t know
how to take the
first step, literally
maybe, but spiritually certainly, into
the church. And
although the care
of our facility is
important, we
should consider
that many younger
adults gather
around coffee,
and maybe it’s
time to allow folks
to participate in
worship carrying a
covered cup of
coffee if they de-
V ol um e 53, I s s ue 6
sire. And does the Pastor, choir,
pire, while we, with all our resources
and acolytes continue to wear robes and rigor, are slowly losing influor not in this more casually dressed ence in our culture?
time in which we live?
“The early church leaders didn’t
The above, I realize is all technique have the things we now consider
and about us if we don’t place the
essential for our faith. They didn’t
gospel at the center. In John, Jesus have official church buildings, vision
asks, “Do you not say, ‘Four
statements or core values. They
months, then comes the harvest?’
had no social media, radio broadBut I tell you, look around you and
casts or celebrity pastors. They
see how the fields are ripe for hardidn’t even have the completed
vesting.” (4:35) What are we waiting New Testament. Christ-followers
for? It begins with the Holy Spirit
were often deeply misunderstood,
convicting us that the time to open
persecuted and some gave their
wide the doors to impacting our so- lives for their faith. Yet they loved
ciety with Christ is now. If not now, and they served and they prayed
then when? If not with love, then
and they blessed—and slowly, over
how? It’s not about us and our pref- hundreds of years, they brought the
erences—it is about the desperate
empire to its knees. They did it
need of the people who drive by us though love.”
every day looking for purpose and
“One generation shall laud your
meaning in their lives, but don’t
works to another….” (Psalm
even think of finding it in a church.
145:4a). May it be so for us as we
We have our work cut out for us,
seek to be faithful to the gospel and
don’t we?
relevant to our times.
Jon Tyson, a NYC pastor in one of
the most Post-Christian cities in our
country, notes:
“How could the early church capture
the imagination of the Roman em-
The Reverend Doctor
David Charles Smith
Senior Pastor and Teacher
J o y o f J o rd a n
Page 3
Pastor Wally’s World
Busy, Busy,
Busy!!! Life runs
faster and faster.
I remember watching the clock
in grade school; the hands
moved so slow. I thought the
school day would never be over.
Today, when I look at the hands,
they seem like second hands;
The hours fly by too quickly. I
have too much to do in the day,
and not enough time to achieve
my quota.
with work and enjoying its bounty. Work hard and you will be
blessed. Working as a farmer,
this was the mentality. But each
year that went by I noticed the
blessings were different, yet the
work load increased. And still
something was missing. The
harder I worked, the more tired I
became, and the more frustrated
I was. God was not giving me
joy. Why not?! I was a good person! I worked hard for my money! Why was I not happy and
I am not the only one who sufcontent? Was it because I was
fers from this tread-mill mentaliliving the Old Covenant? If I
ty. The rat race is alive and well
obeyed the rules and put my
in America, from parents connose to the grindstone, life
fessing their displeasure, to retirwould be good and meaningful.
ees with their booked schedules,
Right?
to youth saying they do not have
enough time in a day. This man- Lets look at the New Covenant.
made, goal-oriented, driven atti- The story Mary and Martha
tude is talked about in the Bible. comes to mind. A woman by the
The Old Covenant suggests this name of Martha welcomed Jeworkmanship mentality. The
sus and his disciples to her
writer in Ecclesiastes 5:18-20,
home and was feeding them.
(many claim it to be King SoloShe had a sister, Mary, who sat
mon) writes, "After looking at the before the Master, hanging on
way things are on this earth,
every word he said. But Martha
here's what I've decided is the
was pulled away by all she had
best way to live: take care of
to do in the kitchen. Later, she
yourself, have a good time, and stepped in, interrupting them.
make the most of whatever job
“Master, don't you care that my
you have for as long as God
sister has abandoned the kitchgives you life. and that's about it. en to me? Tell her to lend me a
That's the human lot. Yes, we
hand.” The master said, “Martha,
should make the most of what
dear Martha, you're fussing far
God gives, both the bounty and too much and getting worked up
the capacity to enjoy it, accept- over nothing. One thing only is
essential, and Mary has choing what's given and delighting
in the work. It's God's Gift. God sen it. It's the main course, and
deals out joy in the present, the won't be taken from her." (Luke
now. It's useless to brood over
10: 39 -42 The Message)
how long we might live." (The
Why was Martha without joy? If
Message)
she worked hard, would not God
Many can relate to this mission. give her joy, like King Solomon,
Life is about me. If I do it right,
the wisest of them all, predicted?
God will give me joy. Joy comes But King Solomon did not know
Jesus. The Way of Christ turns
the way of the law upside down.
Martha was so distracted that
she could not even know Jesus.
She was busy doing good deeds
to experience God in her own
house. Do we do this? Do we
intentionally over-burden ourselves, missing out on God
dwelling in our own house,
where our biggest sins occur?
Achieving our tasks becomes
priority over our relationships
with each other.
We avoid difficult conversations
by filling our life with busyness.
We lie to ourselves by denying
the problems we see each day.
We avoid dealing with them.
Martha did not what to sit and
listen to Jesus. Her Old Covenant way of thinking enslaved
her to her sins. Jesus is the way
to peace, joy, hope, and love in
our lives. The Law, Good deeds,
and work will not satisfy you; this
is not the Good News.
So what if we decided to be children of God and act the way
Christ told us to act in whatever
we do each day? Mary sat and
learned the New Covenant of
Grace so that she did not have
to waste her energy trying to
earn grace. She was set free
from sins of the flesh like anger,
jealousy, resentment, fatigue,
and worry to live a life trusting
God and in relationship with him.
So when she did work, her heart
was filled with God, not worry
and fatigue. This is what brings
joy in our heart when we love
our God: We feel secure and
loved—all is well in this life and
also in the next.
Blessings, Wally
Page 4
V ol um e 53, I s s ue 6
FROM PASTOR ALICE
COMING ATRACTIONS!
A Bead and a Prayer: A Beginner’s Guide to Protestant Prayer Beads.
This book by Kristen E. Vincent will be the focus of a 4-5 week Bible study coming in the fall. The
dates have not been set as yet but the excitement is building. During this past “Go Deeper” Lent experience two small groups met to learn more about the different ways to pray and different tools we
might use to enhance our prayer time. We discovered that many of the group members were excited
to learn about using prayer beads and expressed an interest in learning even more! Not only that,
but there will be an opportunity to make your own set of beads if you would choose to do that. The
Crafty Disciples and I have gathered together a couple of times in the spring to review the instructions included in the book and have put together a number of prayer bead sets to be used for this fall
prayer study and, (if I am allowed to brag a little bit), they are beautiful! Many thanks to the crafters
who helped to make them and who helped me to understand the process better. The weekly themes
will include: Why Prayer Beads? ~ Why Prayer Beads for Protestants? ~ How to Use Prayer Beads ~
and How to Listen with Prayer Beads. The study will be open to everyone and is designed to be a
spiritual learning experience. THERE IS ALSO TALK about repeating the original prayer group experience in some form in the fall as well so you will want to keep your eyes, your hearts and your spirits
open for all of our coming attractions! Until then,
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to
you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (Num. 6:24-26)
WOMEN’S MINISTRY OVER THE SUMMER – Second Saturdays!
Life is full and even when we are supposed to be relaxing and experiencing some fun and recreation
over the summer we still seem to be as busy as ever. But maybe it would be nice just to break away
from our hectic summer “vacations” with some friends for a relaxing breakfast on a Saturday morning.
That is what “Second Saturdays” is all about. We will join together at a local restaurant for breakfast,
fun and fellowship. Our first gathering will be Saturday, July 12, at 9:00 AM, place - TBD. We’ll do it
again on Saturdays, August 9th and September 13th. Sign-up sheets will be available beginning
Sunday, June 22nd on the Spiritual Life bulletin board. The ROSE team wants to stay in touch
and to keep Women’s Ministry at Jordan growing as we go. Please talk to Pastor Alice with your interest or for further information.
Pastor Alice
DID YOU KNOW…
...we collect used clothing for St.Luke’s Clothes Closet? We take
gently used clothes for all ages. This includes underwear, socks,
shoes, purses, hats, belts, baby items and more. Also soft household items, sheets, blankets, pillows, towels, curtains, etc. The
hardest items to come by are men’s items: pants, socks, underwear, and tee shirts. We are completely out of men’s short sleeved
tee shirts, with the summer weather we really need your help. If you
need additional information contact Pat Markle, 610-262-7464 or [email protected].
J o y o f J o rd a n
Page 5
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Friday, July 4—Church Office Closed
In celebration of Independence Day
Saturday, July 5 & 12, 10:00 AM—VBS Decorating Days
Come help us build sets and make decorations. Pizza will be served.
Sunday, July 6, 9:30 AM—First Outdoor Worship in the Harting Chapel
Join us for worship in our “Cathedral in the Trees” - The Harting Chapel on Look Out Hill
every Sunday, weather permitting
Monday, July 14—Friday, July 18, 6:00-8:30 PM—Weird Animals VBS
Where Jesus’ Love is One-of-a-Kind! (Register ASAP!)
Sunday, July 20, 9:30 AM—Weird Animals VBS Sunday
Come and hear amazing stories and song in our air-conditioned Sanctuary!
Sunday, August 3, 9:30 AM—Summer Communion Service
Because of Communion, worship will be held inside.
Friday, August 15—September Newsletter Articles Due
Friday, August 15, 7:05 PM—Jordan Night at the Iron Pigs
Sunday, August 24, 9:30 AM—Blessing of the Backpacks
Bring your kids’ school backpacks to worship
SUMMER SPIRITUAL GROWTH IDEAS
that also help you keep physically active!
1. Walk the Labyrinth (painted on the circle at the top of cemetery drive
on Lookout Hill) and pray or meditate while you do.
2. Help set up for Sunday Morning services in the Harting Chapel. Lots
of items must be taken outside for our services. A van or pick-up truck also
helps. Tell Linda in the Church Office when you are available.
3. Stroll through the Peace Garden—and then after you are refreshed,
bend down to pull up a few weeds!
After a long and difficult winter, let’s enjoy the beauty of our sacred outdoor space here at Jordan.
See you outside soon!
- Dr. Smith
DO YOU ENJOY MOVIES FROM A FAITH PERSPECTIVE? WOULD YOU LIKE
TO BE THE FIRST TO PREVIEW AND PROMOTE FILMS IN OUR AREA?
We've received an invitation from Echolight Cinemas to preview new releases,
schedule showings at the church, and host those who purchase tickets. The commitment would likely be three or four movies a year, all first-run new releases. If you
are interested in this as a new ministry opportunity for you to consider, please
speak to Doctor Smith.
Page 6
V ol um e 53, I s s ue 6
KOINONIA SCHEDULE
Koinonia is invited to the McCays family cabin on Lake Harmony
which is located north of Jim Thorpe.
We will meet at Jordan 9:00 AM Wednesday July 23.
Bring a lunch and we will provide supper.
We plan to return to Jordan by 9:00 PM.
Volunteer to Mary Heller to bring a dessert or snack.
The leaders NEED TO KNOW WHO IS COMING ALONG
to plan transportation and food.
Call Mary (610-799-0372) on or before July 19.
KOINONIA OPPORTUNITIES
TO VOLUNTEER NOW
July 14-18, VBS – Evenings.
Your help is always priceless.
Mark your calendars now
The Koinonia Kick-Off is September 7.
TO THE CONGREGATION
Please pray for the 7 youth
(Josiah, Jordan and Jonah Smith, Matt and
Josh Kiser, Brieanna Jackson and Ryan Muller)
and Mary Heller, their adult leader,
who are attending the Regional Youth Event
at Susquehanna University July 9 to July 13.
Our Sunday school year concluded on June
1st, with our annual Promotion Program. It
is always a fun morning filled with songs,
readings and statements about what each
class learned. We also promoted students
to their next class. Our classes will resume
September 7th at 9:15 am.
Our Vacation Bible School will be held July 14 to 18 from 68:30 pm. The program is for children from 3 years old
through youth going to 7th grade. Please check out the other articles for details and registration information. I hope to
see all of Jordan’s children and youth at VBS. They will
have a GREAT time. Parents and adults are needed to help
make this program possible. Please consider helping – it
will be fun and rewarding.
CONGRATULATIONS to the 2014 Confirmation class, and a very
special than you to this year’s mentors. They helped to guide a faith
journey, and made a commitment to God’s family.
PROSPECTIVE MENTORS:
It looks like next year there will be 8-10 young people in need of a
mentor to give them guidance, support, and be a Christian role-model.
If you are interested in this rewarding experience, please call Pastor
Wally Frisch (610-395-2218 x214) or Karen Brown (610-398-0999).
PROSPECTIVE CONFIRMANDS:
If your child will be in the eighth grade and/or 14 years of age by May 24, 2015, they are invited to be
a part of this year’s Confirmation program. A REQUIRED orientation for prospective students and
parent(s) will be held Wednesday, September 3, 6:00 PM in the Social Hall. If you are planning to
attend, please call the Church Office (610-395-2218) or e-mail us ([email protected]).
J o y o f J o rd a n
Page 7
Something WEIRD is Coming
to Vacation Bible School this Summer!
July 14-18, 6:00-8:30 PM
You might hear the word “weird”
and think it’s mean.
But what “weird” really means
is something is special… unique… rare…
never seen before… one-of-a-kind!
KIDS OF ALL AGES ARE WELCOME!
Ozzy’s Preschool Park is for ages 3 to 5
and provides a great atmosphere and special lessons, crafts, and games
tailored just for little hands and spirits.
Zoo Crews are for kids going into 1st grade through going into 5th grade
where kids have the opportunity to get to know kids of different ages
in small groups that feel like being in a family!
Zoo Zone (NEW this year!) is for youth going into 6th or 7th grade!
Youth will have their own programming, separate from the crews,
which will include a focus on service, preparing them to be future leaders.
THERE ARE ONLY 50 SPOTS AVAIALABLE!
SIGN UP ASAP TO GUARANTEE YOUR CHILD A SPOT!
WE STILL NEED VOLUNTEERS TO MAKE VBS HAPPEN!
Bible Teachers (one night commitment)
Snack Leader
Zoo Zone (Youth) Leader
Preschool Bible Teacher Preschool Gizmos Teacher
Preschool KidVid Teacher
Photographers
Set-Up/Clean-Up Crew
Crew Leaders & Helpers (youth & adult)
DONATIONS NEEDED
Pick a leaf or paw print from the board, or put a donation in an envelope in the Parlor,
Come to our Decorating Days!
Everyone is welcome either July 5 or July 12, 10:00 AM –2:00 PM
to help us build sets, paint buddies, and decorate the church for VBS week!
Pizza will be served, fun music played, and a general good time for all!
REGISTRATION AND VOLUNTEER FORMS, ARE IN THE PARLOR.
Page 8
V ol um e 53, I s s ue 6
World Vision, distribution for Knit
for Kids, in 2013 forwarded 53,729
sweaters to children in the UC and 20
different countries in eastern Europe,
Latin America, Asia, and Africa.
Recently, Lay Fellowship has contributed 34 sweaters (work of 3 knitters)
to this project. Over 10 years, they
have sent more than 500 sweaters.
The project has now expanded to include not only sweaters but also baby blankets and new
born caps. Instructions for these items has been received.
OPPORTUNITY TO TEACH
JORDAN’S
CHILDREN
ABOUT
GOD’S LOVE
Do you enjoy
spending time
with young children? Do you
believe it is important to teach
If you are interested in either of these projects, contact Faith
young children about Jesus? Do
Gensler for the instructions.
you want to share the love of God
with others? If you answered yes to
There will not be a meeting in July or one or more of these questions I
August. Over the summer the read have an opportunity for you. One or
will be a continuation of “The Walk” two teachers are needed to teach
our pre-K class (4 and 5 year olds).
series. We will discuss as many of
The teaching would be shared.
the books as all of us have read.
The date for that discussion is September 22, 6:00 PM Teaching and spending time with
in the Faith Café. Feel free to attend even if you have these children will brighten your
not completed the book, have not read the book at all day. I hope that you will consider
but it is of interest, liked or disliked, or just want to lis- helping with this class. If you are
interested or have any questions
ten to the conversation, you are welcome!
please call Ann (610-433-8919) or e
If you have any questions,
-mail her ([email protected]).
please contact Linda Townsend.
LOCAL SUMMER CAMPS:
Young People Making Peace
(July 21-25, 9:00 AM to noon)
Five morning of stories, songs, games, crafts,
and learning activities related
to the broad topic of peace and justice,
sponsored by
Lehigh-Pocono Committee of Concern
and the Center for Humanistic Change.
For children ages 5-12
who have completed Kindergarten to 6th grade
at First Presbyterian Church, Allentown.
For more information, call (610-691-8730)
Biking for Spiritual Exercise
(August 3-6)
Allan and Nancy Kramer-Moyer, under the sponsorship of New Goshenhopppen UCC, East
Greenville, PA,
are leading a four day bike camp on the
Perkiomen and Schuykill River Trails.
We will camp at Green Lane and Evansburg
parks, with side trips to Valley Forge, Audubon
natural site, and an afternoon of canoeing the
Schuykill Canal.
Ages 13 and older.
All skill levels welcome.
All riding will be on trails off road.
For further information,
contact the Kramer-Moyers
(610-434-0534 or [email protected])
J o y o f J o rd a n
Page 9
Musical Notes
lives, even the number of hairs
on our head. (Matthew 10:30) He
Joseph Scriven was born in Dubhas already paid the price for our
lin in 1820. When he was a
sins on the cross (Isaiah 53:4-6).
young man, his fiancée acciWe may still experience consedentally fell into a pond and
quences for our poor choices,
drowned on the eve of their wedbut Jesus walks through that
ding. Scriven's grief led him to
with us too and helps us mend
travel, and he ended up in Canaour broken ways and repent.
da, where he lived for the last
forty of his sixty six years. He
When we let our struggles come
became a faithful Christian, and between us and God, we have a
his love for the Lord led him to
lack of faith. When this happens,
work for poor widows and sick
those of us who have given our
people.
lives over to Jesus the Savior
need to:
It was not until after Scriven's
death that it was discovered that  confess to God our lack of
he was a gifted poet. A friend
faith (Mark 9:24)
who was staying with Scriven in
 get busy reading Scripture to
a time of illness found a poem
get a head adjustment
Scriven had written to his mother
(Hebrews 4:12) I require nuin 1855. Scriven had not intendmerous head adjustments a
ed that others should read this:
day; you?
What a Friend we have in Jesus,
 wait for the Holy Spirit enable
All our sins and griefs to bear!
our faith (Romans 8:23-26).
What a privilege to carry
When we experience at heart
Everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit, level God's being with us through
Oh, what needless pain we bear, both good and bad times, our
awe and love for Him increases.
All because we do not carry
We see His faithfulness and
Everything to God in prayer.
catch more moments of wonder
This was set to music by hymn
at His almighty power. This rubs
writer Charles Converse in 1868,
off, and can be a strong influand has been used by countless
ence on those who do not permissionaries as a first song to
sonally know Jesus. Others will
teach converts. Understandable.
sometimes wonder how ChrisJesus is our most faithful Friend.
tians can have peace and joy in
The God of the universe is interdark times and we have an opested in every small detail of our
What a Friend!
portunity to tell them what Jesus
has done for us and much more
importantly who God is. This is
not a popular conversation topic
in worldly culture, but its importance blows away any notion
that we are entitled to ease and
acceptance in our dealings with
others.
Everyone needs Jesus as their
best Friend. This life is short like
a vapor (James 4:14). In the
end, every knee will bow and
every tongue confess that Jesus
is Lord (Isaiah 45:23, Philippians
2:9-11).
These lovely summer months
will slip away. Will we become
any more like Jesus by the end
of the summer? We should each
ask God our faithful Counselor
(Isaiah 9:6) where to start and
spend time seeking Him to find
out. We will be like those we associate with. In modern words,
we will be like our "besties" who
we "hang out with."
Alana Acker
Choir Director and Organist
ANNUAL BOOK BAG DRIVE FOR ST.LUKE’S NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER
Yes, school just let out for the summer, but August will be here before you
know it. The Mission Committee will be collecting book bags (backpacks)
August 3 through August 17. During the Social Hour August 17, we will
be taking donations for those who don’t want to shop but do want to help.
We will do the shopping for you. We hope you will be as generous this year
as you have been in the past.
Page 10
V ol um e 53, I s s ue 6
Prayers and Squares—Prayer Quilt Ministry
We will be making little dresses for Africa and shorts for the boys.
If anyone is interested in participating in a workshop,
please contact
Lucille Schantz (610 966-3439 or [email protected])
or Marilyn Durner (610 295-0683 or [email protected]).
3M BUS TRIPS FOR 2014
VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL PARK
AND AMERICAN TREASURE TOUR
Tuesday, September 30
Cost is $81.00 and includes lunch as well as a step
-on guide at Valley Forge. American Treasure Tour
is a 90 minute guided tram tour. There is very minor
walking with this trip. Bus departs at 8:30AM and
returns approximately 5:00PM.
Payment is due by August 26th.
AMERICAN MUSIC THEATRE
Tuesday, December 2
SHOW: "Joy To The World"
Lunch at Eden Resort
(Entree selection available at a later date)
Cost $82 - Payment due October 28
Depart - 11:00 AM and return 7:00 PM
For more information, or to make reservations for
these trips, please contact Kathleen Huber (610437-0635).
A new weight loss support group will begin
Thursday, August 14,
5:45 PM . The sessions
run for 10 weeks. New
people are invited to attend the last
session August 7 to preview a meeting before joining. Registration is
open the first two weeks of the new
session
For more information and cost,
please contact Lucille Schantz
([email protected]
or 610-966-3439)
or Kathleen Huber
([email protected]
or 610-437-0635).
JORDAN VOLUNTEERS
ARE DISCIPLES
It is now summer, and of course that includes
warm weather, rain (not snow!) and mowing!
Lots and Lots of mowing. As I am walking in or
leaving for the day I see someone mowing somewhere on the property. As this is a lot of property
to tend, we are very grateful for our Grounds
Committee. They are very dedicated and do a
wonderful job. If you would like to be a part of
this group, please contact Richard Schantz (610966-3439).
Thank you
to everyone
on the Grounds
Committee!
CROSS NECKLACES FOR LIBERIA
Inexpensive crosses are being gathered
to make necklaces for the children of Liberia.
This is a good time to clean out your jewelry box
and share Christ with others.
If you have any inexpensive crosses you would like to donate,
please give them to Karen Redmond
or turn them into the Church Office.
If the cross is already on a chain, that is great,
but if it needs a chain or jump ring,
we can add that for you.
The necklaces will be given to Jordan Smith
so she can hand deliver them
when she goes to Liberia.
J o y o f J o rd a n
Page 11
Autumn Glory Bazaar
Crafter & Vendor Show
Saturday, October 11
Jordan’s 56th Bazaar
Two Floors of Crafts & Vendors
More than 70 tables of all kids of things!
The Little Shopper’s Shop
(for children 10 and under)
Food, Fruit Pies, Shoofly Pies, & Pumpkin Rolls.
Bargains will be in our
Attic Treasures, Santa’s Attic, & Read It Again
Plus a Raffle & Chinese Auction
If you are a Crafter or Vendor,
and would like to be a part of the Bazaar,
contact Martina Chertok at [email protected]
Proceeds from the Bazaar support Jordan
14TH ANNUAL BASKET SOCIAL
Evening Event: Friday, November 14,
doors open 5:30 PM, drawing 7:00 PM
Your To Do List:
Enjoy Summer
Talk to your friends & relatives
Get excited
Next comes Fall Purchase your ticket
Gather new items for your theme basket
In November, wrap your basket (or bring us your new items to be wrapped by the committee)
October 20 to November 10: Bring your basket to church! (Set-Up is November 11)
An order form will be included in your September newsletter. Fill it out completely. Enclose cash or
check. You may send it to Danette Campbell (address and info on order form) or bring it on a Sunday for filling after the 8:00 or 10:30 AM service starting September 15.
Your $10 seat ticket includes:
26 Basket Tickets1 Food Voucher (BBQ Platter & Free Dessert)
1 Reserved Seat Ticket
and (BONUS): 1 Big Ticket worth $2.00, and you could win a large prize (over $50)
Remember, we can’t have a successful fall evening without your participation! If you care not to
make a basket, a gift certificate from your favorite restaurant, hair dresser, flower shop, or business
is GREATLY appreciated. Our goal each year is to have at least 250 baskets, items, or gift cards,
each valued at $20-$25.
If you can’t attend the evening event, you may come during the day Friday, November 14, 9:00 AM
–4:00 PM to view and put tickets in your favorite basket.
For more information, call Karen Brown (610-398-0999) or any Basket Social Committee Member.
If you want to help, but don’t want to come to meetings or be on the committee, please call
Karen Brown. They can use help setting up in the Kitchen and putting together baskets.
Page 12
V ol um e 53, I s s ue 6
Penn Northeast Conference Event
Women from All Local UCC Churches Are Invited To
A Women's Retreat
"Ties to the Past. . . Aprons and Ancestors"
SAVE THE DATES
Friday, September 26 to Sunday, September 28
Trout Lake, 1100 Twin Lake Rd., Stroudsburg, PA
Cost: $125.00 (includes two night stay, four meals)
$25.00 deposit due with registration form
Arrive: Friday, 6:00 PM
Depart: Sunday, 11:00 AM
Led by:
Rev. Dr. Becky Beckwith, Pastor at St. John's UCC,
Fullerton, Whitehall
Rev. Dr. Jane Hess, Pastor at Faith UCC, Hazleton
Enjoy a relaxing, uplifting, spiritual weekend with other
wonderful women of faith.
The theme is based on how we each have a past that has
brought us to where we are today. Some of the things we
hold onto from the past are good and helpful, some things
are not. We are talking about ways to cut some apron
strings and others ways to give thanks for the different
strings that have been blessings.
REGISTRATION
SAVE YOUR SPOT ASAP!! - $100.00
Balance due by August 25 (100 women only)
$25.00 check payable to Penn Northeast Conference
Mail to Barbara Jennings, PNEC, 431 Delaware Ave.,
Palmerton, PA 18071-1908
Iron Sharpens Iron (Women’s Conference)
Saturday, October 4, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Calvary Baptist Church, Easton, PA
A one-day conference for women of all ages
(13 and up) featuring:
Inspiring keynote speakers
Sixteen different breakout seminars
uniquely designed for women
Christ-centered worship
For more information OR REGISTRATION
CONTACT - IronSharpensIronWomenPA.org
UPDATE FROM THE PEACE GARDEN:
We are in the process of redesigning
part of the Biblical garden. We have
space to plan eight winterberry bushes. If you would like to donate a
plant yourself or in memory of a
loved one, the cost is $30. Please
contact either Dora Gensemer (610395-6708) or Carol Ritz (610-4376183). We appreciate your support;
please visit the Peace Garden.
EMAIL NEWSLETTER, SAVE POSTAGE
If you would like to receive your (FULL-COLOR) newsletter through email,
or sign up for our weekly ePistle,
please send your email address to Katie and Linda in the Office ([email protected])
You can also view the (FULL-COLOR) newsletter
on our website: jordanucc.org
CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES IN THE HOLY LAND ARE DISAPPEARING.
Don’t let them become just a memory.
Much more than money is needed. What’s needed
are your prayers and love. Show your concern. Get Connected.
Become informed. Participate in the dedication
of the Christian Forest in the Holy Land.
Support local churches and charities.
Visit Christians living in the Holy Land.
Found out more at: www.unitedChristianCommunities.org
J o y o f J o rd a n
FLOWERS
July 6
Betty, Bob, & Cheryl Schantz
July 13
Jimmy & Jo Ann Kingston
July 20
June Satkowski
July 27
Ann Royer
August 3
Danette Campbell
Barry Stephens & Jim Stephens
August 10
Jimmy & Jo Ann Kingston
August 17
Glenn & Audrey Lichtenwalner
August 24
Tom & Barbara Brown
August 31
Gail & Larry Hertzog
CHILD IN JERUSALEM
July
Joan Rowley
August
Maxine Best
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
To members on
our Special Care List.
The Rev. Wallace J. Bieber
will be 89 July 11.
1 Heidelberg Drive, Rm. 248
Wernersville, PA 19565
Betty Pollitt
will be 87 August 15
1238 South 10th Street
Allentown, PA 18103
Page 13
SOCIAL HOUR
July 20
Weird Animals VBS
August 17
Mission Committee
BULLETINS
July 20
The Wisser Family
CHILDREN’S BULLETINS
July 6
The Smith Family
July 20
Linda Townsend
July 27
The Smith Family
August 10
The Smith Family
BIRTHS
Kailey Rose Dietrich
May 27, 2014
BAPTISMS
Serenity Jade Barrios
June 1, 2014
Pandorah Lynn Barrios
June 1, 2014
DEATHS
Betty J. Beidler
83, died May 27, 2014
Lillian Laughlin
96, died May 28, 2014
William P. “Bill” Debus
56, died June 6, 2014
The Reading Rebels meet in the Parlor the second Thursday
of each month, 6:00 PM. Would you like to join them?
July 10: Oxygen by Carol Cassella
August 14: The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat by Edward
Kelsey Moore
September 11: The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
October 9: Palisades Park by Alan Brennert
November 13: The All Girl Filling Station by Fannie Flagg
December 11: (tentative date for a get-together)
January 8, 2015: White Knights by Fyodor Dostoevsky and
The Overcoat by Nikolai Gogol
Katie Colcord
610-395-2218 [email protected]
Vaction Bible School
Help with set-up and take-down. A job for everyone who enjoys helping with children.
Carole Deutsch
610-398-2291 [email protected]
September Harvest Home
Bob Schantz
610-437-4324
Set up and take down displays. Decorate Windows
Mary Heller
610-799-0372 [email protected]
Spaghetti Dinner Prep
Cut Veggies, wrap silverware, set up dining area.
Mary Heller
610-799-0372 [email protected]
Spaghetti Dinner Night of
Serve, dry dishes, clean-up, bus tables. Donation of desserts.
July
Page 14
V ol um e 53, I s s ue 6
Church Contacts
ADDRESSES & TELEPHONES
Church, 1837 Church Rd 610-395-2218
Sexton, 1841 Church Rd 610-360-0751
Kitchen. 1837 Church Rd 610-395-2263
STAFF
Dr. David Charles Smith 610-554-8333
Rev. Alice Roth
610-433-1655
Wally Frisch
484-330-6061
Administrative Assistants
Katie Colcord
610-395-2218
Linda Townsend
610-395-2218
Treasurer
John Griffith
610-398-0966
Financial Secretary
Kathleen Huber
610-437-0635
Music Director
Alana Acker
610-530-7510
Sextons
Amy & Frank Kloiber
610-360-0751
EVANGELISM
Fellowship Hour
Gail Hertzog
484-547-8733
Arrange Banquet
Lucy Ritter
610-395-4083
Prayer Chain
Mary Heller
610-799-0372
Called to Care
Rev. Alice Roth
610-433-1655
Cook & Share Group
Charlotte Fritz
610-261-9488
Festival Committee
Rick Paterick
610-366-0364
Mary Heller
610-799-0372
Welcome Committee
Gail Hertzog
484-547-8733
Peace Garden
Pat Yost
610-435-0908
Publicity
Candace Weiss
610-868-2516
Nursery Volunteers
Jane Wetzel
610-395-3672
CONSISTORY ELDERS
JD Fekula
267-374-7777
Michele Harrison
610-435-4182
Brian McLaughlin
484-239-7221
Rochelle Reimert
610-769-5077
Ken Ritter
610-395-0991
Ann Royer
610-433-8919
Tom Stephens
610-437-0809
Glenn Stettler
610-366-0058
CONSISTORY DEACONS
Gene Hill
610-395-3948
Joan Kuhns
610-820-7141
Lyle Litzenberger
610-894-9994
Emily Pisco
610-440-0733
Carol Ritz
610-437-6183
Alex Rodriguez
610-266-6176
Kerry Snyder
610-737-7768
Mary Heller/Gloria Vellela 610-799-0372
CONSISTORY OFFICERS
John Harting, Pres.
610-799-2508
Linda Townsend, Sec.
610-398-1810
MUSIC & WORSHIP
Cherub Choir
Brittany Pohl
610-573-1358
Sacred Dance Choir & Christian Clowns
Ruth Ann McCay
610-395-6742
Sponsor Altar Flowers
Lorraine Smith
610-395-4867
Audio/Visual
Jason Speigel
610-966-0213
Lay Ushers
Lorraine Smith
610-395-4867
Church School
Ann Royer
610-433-8919
PERSONNEL
Joe Goll
610-398-1121
Audrey Lichtenwalner 610-657-3379
Richard Schantz
610-966-3439
NEWSLETTER AND BULLETIN GUIDELINES




The bulletin is assembled and printed on Thursday of the
current week. Weekly announcements are due in the
Church Office by NOON on Thursday.
Please submit your information in a timely manner—early submissions are always welcome!
Newsletter articles are due AUGUST 15. Items received after
the 15th will be printed in the next month’s Newsletter.
PLEASE keep Newsletter submissions to 500 words or
less. Short, to-the-point articles are best.
Submissions can be supplied in the following forms:
PREFERRED: Email sent to [email protected]
If you are submitting a Paper Copy,
typed submissions are preferred
GROUPS
Basket Social
Karen Brown
610-398-0999
Bowling League
Lucy Ritter
610-395-4083
Cemetery Association
Bob Bleiler
610-395-2759
Don Heller
610-395-3530
Crafty Disciples
Pat Yost
610-435-0908
Endowment Committee
Carl Klase
610-435-2894
Food Bank
Dora Gensemer
610-395-6708
Grounds Committee
Richard Schantz
610-966-3439
Koinonia (Youth Group)
Ruth Ann & Bill McCay 610-395-6742
Lay Fellowship
Jim & Eleanor Swogger 610-769-4423
[email protected]
Market Day
Mary Heller
610-799-0372
Miller Memorial Blood Bank
Adele Snyder
610-395-6147
Mission
Dave / Michelle Williams 610-433-1366
Perpetual Memorial
Helen Griffith
610-398-0966
Pinochle Night
Dot Frey
610-395-6866
Prayers & Squares
Lucille Schantz
610-966-3439
Marilyn Durner
610-395-0683
Property/Maintenance
Glenn Lichtenwalner
610-657-3592
Soup Kitchen
Pat Markle
610-262-7464
Spiritual Life
Wally Frisch
610-395-2218
3-M's Group (More Mature Members)
Faith Gensler
610-435-3180
Trips and Tours
Kathleen Huber
610-437-0635
Vacation Bible School
Katie Colcord
610-395-2218
Wipe the Tears
Robert Momolu
484-788-2111
Boy Scouts
Bill Folk
610-391-0153
Cub Scouts
Frank Tipa
484-358-6109
COMMUNITY GROUPS
Jr Girl Scouts Troop 6700
Michelle Sorgi
610-391-9365
Cadette Girl Scouts Troop 6550
Becky Folk
610-391-0153
Sr. Girl Scout Troop 6451
Jo Lee Muller
610-481-0020
J o y o f J o rd a n
Page 15
July & August 2014
For a fully updated calendar, check out our website — jordanucc.org
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1
2
3
4 4TH OF JULY
5
9:00 Prayers &
Squares
10:00 Small Group
7:00 Daniel Plan
9:00 3M Breakfast
1:00 Lean on Me
5:00 Weird Wed.
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
5:45 Weight Watch
7:00 Thurs. Happen
OFFICE CLOSED
10:00 VBS Decor
9:00 Men’s B’fast
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
9:30 Worship
8:00 Food / Flock
11:00 Staff Mtg.
1:00 Augustine
5:45 PLC
7:00 Troop 1600
10:00 Small Group
6:00 Elders
7:00 Consistory
7:00 Daniel Plan
7:00 Troop Comm
7:00 Crew 1600
5:00 Lean on Me
5:00 Weird Wed.
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
5:45 Weight Watch
6:00 Reading Rebels
7:00 Thurs. Happen
9:00 Men’s B’fast
9:00 Women’s
Breakfast
10:00 VBS Décor
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
9:30 Worship
w/Baptism
11:00 Staff Mtg.
1:00 Augustine
10:00 Small Group
7:00 Men’s Retreat
Planning
1:00 Lean on Me
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
5:45 Weight Watch
7:00 Thurs. Happen
9:00 Men’s B’fast.
Mid-Atlantic
Regional Youth
Event
Weird Animals Vacation Bible School—Monday-Friday, 6:00-8:30 PM
20 VBS SUNDAY
21
22
23
24
25
9:30 Worship inside
7:00-11:00 Breakfast to
benefit Crew 1600
8:00 Food / Flock
11:00 Staff Mtg.
1:00 Augustine
7:00 Troop 1600
10:00 Small Group
7:00 Crew 1600
9:00 Koinonia Trip to
Lake Harmony
1:00 Lean on Me
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
5:45 Weight Watch
7:00 Thurs. Happens
9:00 Men’s B’fast.
27
28
29
30
31
1
9:30 Worship
11:00 Staff Mtg.
1:00 Augustine
7:00 Troop 1600
10:00 Small Group
6:00 Pinochle
1:00 Lean on Me
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
5:45 Weight Watch
7:00 Thurs. Happens
9:00 Men’s B’fast
3 SUMMER COMMUNION 4
5
6
7
8
9
9:30 Communion
2:00 Crew 1600
8:00 Food / Flock
11:00 Staff Mtg.
1:00 Augustine
7:00 Mission
7:00 Troop 1600
10:00 Small Group
9:00 3M Breakfast
1:00 Lean on Me
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
5:45 Weight Watch
7:00 Thurs. Happens
9:00 Men’s B’fast
9:00 LV Painters
9:00 Women’s
Breakfast
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
9:30 Worship
11:00 Staff Mtg.
1:00 Augustine
5:30 PLC
7:00 Troop 1600
10:00 Small Group
7:00 Crew 1600
1:00 Lean on Me
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
2:00 Called to Care
5:45 Weight Watch
6:00 Reading Rebels
7:00 Thurs. Happens
Newsletter Due
9:00 Men’s B’fast
7:05 Jordan Night
at the Ironpigs
17
18
19
20
21
22
9:30 Worship
8:00 Food / Flock
11:00 Staff Mtg.
1:00 Augustine
7:00 Troop 1600
10:00 Small Group
7:00 All-Church Mtg
1:00 Lean on Me
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
5:45 Weight Watch
7:00 Thurs. Happens
9:00 Men’s B’fast
24
25
26
27
28
29
9:30 Worship
11:00 Staff Mtg.
1:00 Augustine
7:00 Troop 1600
10:00 Small Group
6:00 Pinochle
7:00 Crew 1600
1:00 Lean on Me
6:30 Sunrise B’fast
11:00 Crafty Disciples
5:45 Weight Watch
7:00 Thurs. Happens
9:00 Men’s B’fast
31
9:30 Worship
26
2
23
30
Jordan United Church of Christ
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Emmaus, PA
Permit No. 9
1837 Church Road
Allentown, PA 18104
Phone: 610-395-2218
Address Service Requested
jordanucc.org
This newsletter is sent
With a blessing and a prayer to...
Celebrate a birthday, anniversary,
or the life of a loved one.
Sponsor any of the following:
Bulletins , Children’s Bulletins, Large Print
Bulletins, A Choir Anthem
or even THIS NEWSLETTER!
Sign up in the Red Sponsor Book
in the Narthex
or contact the Church Office
(610-395-2218 or [email protected])
Church Information
CHURCH STAFF
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
Dr. David Charles Smith, Senior Pastor
Worship
8:00 AM and 10:30 AM
Rev. Alice Roth, Associate Pastor for Pastoral Care
Church School 9:15 AM
Mr. Wally Frisch, Associate Pastor for Spiritual Growth
NURSERY AT 10:30 AM
Mrs. Carol Gilbert, RN, Stephen Minister
SUMMER SCHEDULE (July-1st Sunday in Sept.)
Mrs. Alana Acker, Director of Music and Organist
Worship 9:30 AM
Mrs. Linda Townsend, Parish Administrator
No Church School
Ms. Katie Colcord, Administrative Secretary
Mrs. Amy & Mr. Frank Kloiber, Sextons
Ms. Julie Cherry & Ms. Sarah Horn, Nursery Instructional Aides
CHURCH OFFICE
610-395-2218
610-395-2688 fax
[email protected]
OFFICE HOURS
Monday—Friday
8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
PRAYER CHAIN 610-799-0372
CONGREGATION CODE 450