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Branches
Alexandria First Presbyterian Church
“I am the vine, you are the branches.”
June 2015
141 Little York-Mount Pleasant Road
Milford, New Jersey 08848
908-996-4333
www.alexpres.org
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Dear Friends,
As we move now into the month of June, our program year of
the church is coming to an end. Like schools in our area, we are
winding down as we move into the summer. But before we end
the program year we will take the time to celebrate all that we do
on June 7th with Ministry Appreciation Sunday. This is an
opportunity to thank and celebrate everyone at our church and all
of our many ministries. We will take the time to thank our elders,
deacons, and Sunday school teachers. We will pause to say thank
you to our choirs and ministry team members. We will recognize everyone who contributes to the life of our church and all
we do together as the body of Christ.
A Note from Nick
One new thing we will be doing this year is incorporating our spring congregational meeting into Ministry Appreciation
Sunday. Normally at our spring meeting we gather in the evening to hear reports from each of our ministry teams and we
also receive the report from the auditing team and elect new elders and deacons. This year we will hear reports from our
ministry teams during our worship service, and then do the business of our spring meeting immediately following worship.
This way more of our congregation will be present to hear all of the good things our ministry teams have been doing this
year—and what better time than on Ministry Appreciation Sunday! After worship and our brief meeting we will then
continue our celebration in Fellowship Hall with refreshments!
I hope that you will plan to be present in worship on June 7th so that we can celebrate and give thanks together!
I’d also like to remind everyone, that while our ministry teams, choir, and Sunday school will take a break during the
summer, we will still be having worship each and every Sunday. I hope that you will plan to worship with us this summer,
and if you are on vacation, please be sure to mail your tithes or offerings to the church while you are away! After all, just
because it is summer, we will not take a vacation from giving thanks to God in worship each week!
Your friend,
Pastor Nick
Branches
June 2015
Tending the Flock
Baptism
This month we rejoice with those who are celebrating their baptism anniversary. It was in May that Kristina Lauren
Brophy, Abby Ferdinando, Kaylee Gunderman, Jackson Davis Koeller, Cole Kenneth Kramer, Victoria Grace Kramer,
Brayden Marshall Schneider, Ryan Unkert, and Timothy K. Unkert became children of God through the sacrament of
baptism. Congratulations and blessings to you all!
Thank you
I would like to thank all who participated in the deacons’ flower sale on Saturday, May 9. Special thanks to Pat Keefe,
Athena McDowall, and John McDowall for their exceptional assistance. We profited $516.
Thanks to you all,
Carol Van Norman
Annual Spring Congregational Meeting
Sunday, June 7 | 10 a.m.
The annual spring congregational meeting will be on Sunday, June 7 beginning at
10:00 a.m. in the sanctuary at which time we will hear reports from the ministry teams.
The meeting continues after the service at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary where we will
receive the reports of the Nominating and Auditing committees and process any such
other business as may be deemed appropriate.
Ministry Appreciation Day
Sunday, June 7 | 10 a.m.
You are warmly invited to join us as we lift up in celebration the many ministries of Alexandria Church on Sunday, June
7. Come celebrate the sacrament of communion, hear our choir present Spirit-filled music in praise to God for his blessings,
and celebrate with us the joys and goodness of the works of our ministry teams, elders, and deacons. As part of the service
we will also recognize our high school Senior Class of 2015. A reception, refreshments, and an opportunity to enjoy each
other’s company will begin at 11:00 a.m. Christ calls us into fellowship as Christians—be a part of it on the 7th!
Caring Warmth
Our Knots of Love bulletin board has 3 additional warm and soft caps. We now have
a total of 8 caps available for anyone who needs some caring warmth and prayerful
support as they battle cancer. Please visit the display outside the choir room to see our
caps or take one if you have a need. Also, we’d appreciate your handmade caps or any
Knots of Love approved cotton yarn donations you’d like to make. Thank you for your
continued help. Please contact Alice Hansen if you have any questions.
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June 2015
Congratulations to our Seniors
We join together as a church family to share in the joy and celebration of the
graduation of the following high school seniors: Josh Christ, Abby Ferdinando,
Kaylee Gunderman, Isabel Navarro, Jesse Neighbour, Matt Pardonner, and Ryan
Unkert. May God bless them all as they continue on their journey.
Christian Education and Youth Ministry Countdown
Graduating Seniors Recognition June 7
Senior High Mission Trip, Millersville, Maryland the week of July 4
Vacation Bible School, Frenchtown Presbyterian Church the week of July 20 (registration form on page 11)
Summer Sunday School
This year we will offer summer Sunday school for children in Pre-K to 5th grade. Children are invited to attend a one room
schoolhouse format for the summer months—to get to know the other kids and make lasting friendships—that will help all
ages understand God’s love. This year’s curriculum will focus on God’s Tools for our everyday life. It will include simple
crafts, fellowship, games, and service projects with an emphasis on fun. Summer Sunday school will start on June 14, after
the children’s sermon and continue throughout the summer months, except the first Sunday of each month which will remain
family worship time. We will not meet on July 26 so the kids can participate in worship following their week of VBS at
Frenchtown. Volunteers are needed. Sixth grade and older children are invited to be helpers, and seasoned and greenhorn
teachers all wanted. Please help our children grow in faith through the summer. Please contact Julie Lyons for more
information.
Nursery (birth to age 3)
Our nursery is a relaxed setting with books and toys for the children to enjoy under the careful supervision of gentle
volunteers. Thanks to our sound system, volunteers can listen to a live feed of the worship service. Adult and teen helpers
are needed. Opportunities are available for just one Sunday or many.
Confirmation Sunday
Eight new disciples of Jesus Christ have been added to the rolls of Alexandria
First Presbyterian Church. They have made a public declaration that Jesus Christ is
the Lord and Savior and have started on their life-long journey of becoming more
like Jesus. The confirmation ministry team thanks this year’s students, parents,
Pastor Nick, and the mentors for their dedication and faithfulness. Students were
welcomed into the life and membership of the church on Sunday, May 24 and we look forward to seeing them grow in the
faith in the years to come.
Jack Thomas Bender
Gianna Cascio
Angela Marie Maglio
John Leslie McDowall
Jacob Ryan Norgard
Andrea Pederson
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Brianna Catherine Schneider
Jack Glynn Skibinski
Branches
June 2015
Ministries Completed / New Ones Begin
We are a church that rolls up our sleeves and gets to work! Gratitude and
sincere appreciation are extended to our church officers whose terms of service
are now complete. The elders are Brad Bondor, Rich Carroll, Laura Navarro,
Shari Norgard, and Renee Skibinski. The deacons are Sue Kunich, Nancy Smith,
Cathy Torrey, and Fran Wieder. We thank God for their steadfast service!
We are blessed to have new church officers who will be serving three-year
terms. The elders are Lois Bondor and Karen Pardonner. Brad Bondor, Laura Navarro, and Shari Norgard have agreed to
return for a second 3-year term as elders. The deacons are Debbie Cortelyou, Helen Jones, and Pat Keefe. Cathy Torrey has
agreed to return for a second term as deacon. May God bless their ministry among us!
A Note to New Officers
Ordination and Installation: June 14 | 10 a.m.
We joyfully welcome our new slate of officers to three-year terms. Ordination and installation will take place Sunday,
June 14 at our 10:00 a.m. service. We hope you will be able to be present. Please call the church office if you will not be
able to attend. We thank you all for your dedication to our church and our God!
So that your new ministry is not hampered by inaccessibility to the building, please stop by the church office to sign for a
key as soon as you can. Each key is numbered and needs to be signed out by you in person.
Share Your Talent
If you have a musical talent that you would like to share during worship this summer, please complete
this form and place it in the offering plate or in the Worship and Music mailbox downstairs near the
offices. All musical selections will be approved by Nerva before presentation in the worship service. You
will be contacted to schedule a rehearsal and arrange the date to present your musical talent. Thank you
for sharing your gifts!
Name:
Talent:
please print
Phone:
vocal, piano, guitar, etc.
Email:
home and cell
Selection title and composer:
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Branches
June 2015
Presbyterian Signs and Symbols
Flag Day: June 14
On Flag Day Americans remember the foundations of the nation’s freedom by
reflecting on the meaning of the country’s flag. The American flag has been an enduring
symbol of our country’s ideals since its early days. Flag Day occurs on the 14th of this
month, so it’s only fitting that we look at the flags in our sanctuary. Both the American
flag and the Christian flag hold a position of prominence in the chancel area. While we are familiar with the symbolism of
the American flag: stars, stripes, red, white, and blue, we may not be as aware of the rich symbolism in the Christian flag.
The Christian flag has a white field and a red Latin cross which stands inside a blue canton. The red cross symbolizes the
blood that Jesus shed on Calvary. The blue represents the waters of baptism as well as the faithfulness of Jesus. The white
represents Jesus’ purity. In secular circles, a white flag is linked to peace and surrender. In the Christian flag white is a
reference to the Biblical description of Jesus’ non-violence and surrender to God. The flag is not tied to any specific
denomination or church institution but represents the unity of all Christians despite historical or dogmatic differences.
Presbytery News
Presbyterian News Service
www.pcusa.org/aboutpcnews
Presbyterian News Service (PNS) is the official news agency of the Presbyterian
Church USA. Its job is to gather and honestly report to its audience information
about the denomination and its work on newsworthy matters concerning or affecting the Presbyterian Church USA. To sign
up for a free email subscription, visit www.pcusa.org/newsupdates.
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance: Nepal Earthquake
Thousands were killed or injured following the massive earthquake that shook Nepal and neighboring countries on April
25. The quake, the worst in more than 80 years, destroyed towns and mountain villages.
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance’s (PDA) local partners have been working in Nepal for several years and are on the
ground assisting those who survived the quake by distributing life-saving supplies such as water, food, shelter, and
medication. PDA is committed to the long-term response. As long-term recovery plans are developed, PDA will
accompany and further financially support our partners in the area to ensure a comprehensive recovery is sustained.
If you’d like to donate, please write a check to the church with “Nepal” in the memo line, use the link from our website,
or visit https://pda.pcusa.org/situation/nepal-earthquake-april-2015/.
The Flight to Egypt
Elizabeth asked her Sunday school class to sketch a picture of their favorite Bible stories. She
was puzzled by Bert’s picture, which showed four people sitting in a plane, so she asked him
which Bible story it was meant to represent. “The flight to Egypt,” said Bert. “I see. And that
must be Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus,” Elizabeth said, “But who’s the fourth person?” Bert
answered, “Oh, that’s Pontius - the Pilot.”
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June 2015
 Deposit your bags in the purple room which is between the Youth Center and the Christian
Education wing on the lower level. Enter through the courtyard between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.
 Place towels and washcloths in a separate bag labeled “Washcloths and Towels”
 Remember sample-sized shampoos and lotions are also needed, please package separately
 Donations will be directed to both the Trenton Rescue Mission and the youth group’s Clothes for a
Cause fund raiser so ALL items—even worn, torn, and stained items that are clean and laundered—
will be accepted
 All items should be in plastic bags only and securely fastened
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Branches
June 2015
June Birthdays
May God’s awesome blessings be upon you
this day and on the future years ahead.
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5
2
6
Ryan Unkert
Chris Andreychak
Jack Skibinski
Rebecca Sutton
Michael Folmar
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9
11
12
Ben Giuliano
Howard Jones
Jim Bush
Chris Scheier
Shannon Fritsche
13 Cathy Rosswaag
14 Julie Lyons
18 Luke Bender
Dave Heinbach
20 Robin Schostkewitz
22 Heather Pardonner
25 Jenny Scheier
28 Ken Carlson
Liam Groogan
30 Ramon Rosswaag
Troy Stagg
Beyond Boundaries in October
Sunday, October 4, 2015 | 7:30 p.m.
www.TheAltinoBrothers.com
The Altino Brothers will present “Beyond Boundaries” at the world-famous
Carnegie Hall this fall. The concert will feature piano concertos by Tchaikovsky and
Liszt, popular and Broadway favorites, and the world premiere of a double piano
concerto based on the Battle Hymn of the Republic for two pianos, orchestra, and
chorus, composed by Nerva Altino. Tickets are not available online just yet, but you
can follow the announcements on their website or Facebook page.
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Branches
June 2015
Getting to Know our Teams
This month: Mission
Interpretation Team
“If anyone serves, they should do
so with the strength God provides.”
Alexandria Presbyterian Church has a heart for mission! We are
called to follow Jesus’ teaching and his example to minister to all who are in need both within and outside the church,
locally and around the world. Mindful of this, the Mission Ministry Team—with the approval of Session and the
involvement of the congregation—selects a variety of missions to embrace financially, or otherwise, each year.
If you have an idea for a mission opportunity or a project that needs volunteer help, please contact the church office.
A few of our on-going missions and ministries
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Alexandria Church’s food pantry: collecting and distributing non-perishable foods and products to anyone with a need
Building-use: with open doors offering the use of our facility to groups in the community
Family Promise (Interfaith Hospitality Network): providing food, transportation, and a place to sleep for the homeless
Frenchtown Food Pantry: serving the local population by providing food and personal products
Living Waters for the World: providing a solution to bring clean potable water to third world countries
Local fire and rescue: supporting the men and women who keep us safe
Presbyterian General Assembly: setting priorities for the work of the church in keeping with the church’s mission under
Christ
 Presbytery of New Brunswick: connecting and supporting local Presbyterian congregations in advancing Christ’s mission
 Senior High mission trip: July 2015 to Millersville, Maryland
For detailed information on the mission work of Presbyterian Church USA, see a copy of the Mission Yearbook for Prayer
and Study and Children’s Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study, which are published each year by PCUSA. Each day a
new story highlights mission in our presbyteries and synods. Contact the church office for a copy or
visit http://www.presbyterianmission.org/yearbook/.
Presbyterian denomination offerings we support
 Christmas Joy Offering: supporting retired ministers and racial ethnic schools
 One Great Hour of Sharing: supporting disaster relief, hunger programs, and the self-development of people
 Peacemaking Offering: supporting the work of peace at all levels of the church and beyond
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance
 Focusing on the long team recovery of disaster impacted communities
 Visit http://www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/pda/who-we-are/ to learn more
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Branches
June 2015
May Flowers
May 3 given in honor of Alexandra Torrey’s birthday
May 10 given in celebration of Mother’s Day in the 35th wedding anniversary of
LuAnn and Pat Keefe
May 17 given in celebration of Dana & Danny Hunt’s graduation from Westchester University
May 24 given to the glory of God, celebrating the confirmation class of 2015
May 31 given to the glory of God by Gayle Hatch in thanksgiving for the ministry and dedication of our Sunday school teachers
As you can see, we have been blessed by having flowers in the sanctuary last month. Thank
you to all who donated. There are many opportunities ahead to dedicate sanctuary flowers to a
loved one or for a special event, so remember to visit the flower chart in Fellowship Hall. Sign up to dedicate flowers on a
Sunday soon!
Deacons Highlights
May 5, 2015
 The cares and concerns of the congregation were discussed as well as joys and
blessings. Many in our church are in need of prayers and assistance
 Letters of thanks were read for the deacons’ work with a memorial service and
a new contact that we made in the last few months
 The deacons will provide food at the luncheon on June 7 and will serve
lemonade and cookies on the first Sundays in the summer
 Ministry team reports were made:
 Christian Education: gearing up for VBS at Frenchtown Presbyterian Church, Sunday School year end coming up,
celebration planned, summer Sunday school will continue, youth mission trip fundraising continues for the trip
 Evangelism and Membership: getting ready for congregational luncheon and meeting on June 7, will decorate for
Pentecost Sunday May 24
 Building and Property: Work day scheduled for May 16, continuing to update the church’s to-do list with major and
minor projects and repairs, the Scouts will be paint the hallway stairs from the CE wing up to Fellowship Hall, the
railing outside the sanctuary repaired, electrical outlets upgraded, gutters replaced
 Stewardship and Finance: Quarterly letters were sent to members about their giving status, looking into online giving
as an option, per capita amount for each member was discussed
 Worship and Music: The Good Friday Tenebrae service was powerful, looking for more ways to spread the word
about this service, two services were held for Easter
 The food pantry is in need of donations, please check dates of products before donating
 Plant sale was May 9 at Carol Van Norman’s, proceeds benefited the youth mission trip
Small Groups and Gatherings
Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.
Wednesdays, 6:00 a.m.
Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.
Max Lucado’s The Gospel of Luke
The Book of 1 Kings in Warren Wiersbe’s series Be
The Apostle Peter: Learning to Be Like Jesus
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Branches
June 2015
Please Note
 Our summer edition of Branches will be a single, combined July/August issue
 Contributions for the summer issue should be sent to the church office
before June 25
 Contributions for the September issue may be submitted any time
before August 20
 May God’s fullest blessings be with you this summer!
Joint Vacation Bible School
hosted by Frenchtown Presbyterian Church
with assistance from
Alexandria & Milford Presbyterian Churches
July 20 through 24
9 - 11:30 a.m.
At this year’s VBS treasure seekers will play island games,
create colorful crafts, and enjoy tropical snacks. But more
importantly, they will discover the rich treasure
of God’s love through the life of Jesus!
Registration on next page
and on our website
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June 2015
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Branches
June 2015
Flat Jesus Returns!
“And remember, I am with you always.” Matthew 28:20
We had so much fun with the adventures of Flat Jesus last summer, we decided that more is better! Flat Jesus returns for
the Summer of 2015 and we can’t wait to see where his travels lead us this year!
Summer is just around the corner, and we find ourselves in and out of church, so help us to stay connected during the
summer months and share your adventures with us and with Jesus. Join in the fun and take Flat Jesus with you wherever
you go! Simply take photos of Flat Jesus throughout the whole summer while you are playing, adventuring, on vacation, or
just hanging out at home. Going on a vacation? Take Jesus with you. Going to summer camp? Take Jesus with you.
Email your photos to Pastor Nick at ([email protected]), post them to the church Facebook, and/or bring your
pictures to be posted and shared in and around church. We’ll put them up on the corridor bulletin board for all to see, so if
you’re not connected by email or Facebook, you can still be part of the adventure!
Remember your Pledge this Summer
Ministry continues here at AFPC all summer long, including routine expenses and
mission commitments. If you are traveling this summer and are not able to worship
with us regularly, please consider mailing your pledge commitments to help keep our
finances current. Thank you!
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Branches
June 2015
Worship Assistants
Our Ministry Team Officers
June 7
June 14
June 21
June 28
Building and Property Craig Bender (E), Marty Gunderman (E),
Jim Hansen (E), Doug Bondor (D), Eric Strangfeld
Craig Bender
Steve Cameron
Brad Bondor
Renee Skibinski
Christian Education/Youth Ministry Shari Norgard (E),
Nancy Serrone (E), Sue Kunich (D), Julie Lyons (D)
Ushers
Evangelism/Membership Carol Moran (E), Renee Skibinski (E),
Cathy Torrey (D), Carol Van Norman (D)
June 7
June 14
June 21
June 28
Mission Interpretation Brad Bondor (E), Jim Bush (E),
Steve Cameron (D)
Schostkewitz family
Fran and Ken Wieder
Evelyn Cameron, Carol Van Norman
Sue Lawson, Robin Vogel
Nominating Shari Norgard (E), Jim Hansen (D), Nancy Smith (D)
Personnel Rick Carroll (E), Laura Navarro (E), Nancy Smith (D)
Communion Servers
Stewardship and Finance Karl Nielsen (E), Denis Goldman (E),
Alice Hansen (D), Fran Wieder (D)
June 7 Craig Bender, Steve Cameron,
Carol Van Norman, Fran Wieder
Worship and Music Ken Wieder (E), Howard Jones (E),
Evelyn Cameron (D), Meredith Oliver (D)
(E: Elder, D: Deacon)
Special Dates
Also see the main calendar on page 13
June 7
June 14
June 28
Sr High recognition, Ministry appreciation,
annual spring congregational meeting
Officers ordained and installed
Youth commissioning
Coming Up
July 4
July 5
July 6
July 20
August 2
Youth mission trip
Communion
Church office closed
VBS begins, Frenchtown Pres.
Communion
The vision of Alexandria First Presbyterian
Church is to gather in God’s grace and to be
led by the Holy Spirit. We joyfully worship,
prayerfully seek, and gratefully share as a
loving family growing in Jesus Christ.
THE DEADLINE FOR THE NEXT ISSUE
OF BRANCHES IS THE 3rd THURSDAY
OF THE MONTH
Branches is a publication of Alexandria First
Presbyterian Church (USA), 141 Little YorkMount Pleasant Road, Milford, NJ 08848. The
newsletter is published monthly—except
during August—to inform members and
friends of church programs, news, and events.
Branches is online in the “News/Our
Newsletter” tab at
www.alexpres.org.
ALEXANDRIA FIRST
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (USA)
141 Little York-Mount Pleasant Road
Milford, NJ 08848
Web: www.alexpres.org
Office 908-996-4333
Fax 908-996-6014
THE STAFF of ALEXANDRIA CHURCH
Reverend Nicholas C. Hatch
Pastor
Nerva Altino
Director of Music Ministry
Pati Tiedeman
Administrative Assistant
Editor: [email protected]
Alexandria First Presbyterian
Church of Mount Pleasant
How to Reach the Pastor
Rev. Nick Hatch
Through the church office Monday through Thursday
from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 908-996-4333
By the church’s website on the “contact us” link:
www.alexpres.org
Via his email: [email protected]
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Branches
June 2015
Alexandria Presbyterian Church
Sunday
Monday
Deacon of the Week
May 31 Fran Wieder
June 7
Evelyn Cameron
June 14 Steve Cameron
June 21 Doug Bondor
June 28 Eric Strangfeld
7
Ministry
Appreciation Day
10:00 Worship,
communion
11:00 Congregational
meeting
11:30 Refreshment and
fellowship
Clothing Drive
11 am-8 pm
9 a.m.-3 p.
14
10:00 Worship, mission
commissioning
11:00 Fellowship
4
5
2:30 Staff
4:15 Worship and
Music
7:00 Chancel Choir
7:30 Boy Scouts
6
10
11
13
9
9:00 Bulletin
10:00 Personnel
deadline
9:30 Bible study
5:45 Presbytery,
Lawrence
Road
7:00 Boy Scouts
Clothing Drive
Clothing Drive
9 a.m.-8 pm
9 am-8 pm
9 a.
15
16
22
Father’s Day
10:00 Worship
11:00 Fellowship
28
Wednesday
3
6:00 Bible study
9:00 Session
materials due
6:45 Boy Scouts
8
10:00 Worship, officers
ordained/installed
11:00 Fellowship
21
Tuesday
2
9:00 Bulletin
deadline
9:30 Bible study
7:00 Boy Scouts
7:00 Deacons
29
Thursday
Friday
12
Saturday
6:00 Bible study
7:00 Session
Clothing Drive
9 am-8 pm
9 a.m.-3
17
Clothing Drive
Clothing Drive
9 am-8 pm
9 am-8 pm
9 a.
9 a.m.-3
18
19
9:00 Bulletin
deadline
9:30 Bible study
7:00 Boy Scouts
6:00 Bible study
2:30 Staff
23
24
25
9:00 Bulletin
deadline
9:30 Bible study
7:00 Boy Scouts
6:00 Bible study
9:00 July/August
Branches
deadline
30
9:00 Bulletin
deadline
9:30 Bible study
7:00 Boy Scouts
7:00 Building and
Property
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20
27