MISSION OUTREACH
To believe is to care; to care is to do.
Our Ark is blessedly and purposefully being filled. Over $3,100 resulting in more than 25 animals has been donated . Compare that to families in the Guatemala highlands who earn about $1 a day. That money comes from a joint effort by the entire family-men tending fields, women weaving baskets, and children gathering firewood. The gift of a full ARK consists of 15 different pairs of animals, at a cost of $5,000...a goal we pray to reach by Christmas Eve, 2008.
Although the Outreach Committee is coordinating this church wide project, we are looking to other committees to become involved in educating, motivating, and most of all, filling the Ark with animals. Christ Church is ready to launch our “Joy to the World Ark”. Are you ready and willing to climb on board???
Calling All Knitters and Crocheters…
Our shawl knitting group has reduced to less than 6, and we continue to supply shawls to those in need. Won’t you consider joining us? We would love to teach you. It is important to attend our little meeting (2nd Monday of the month, from 7:30-9 PM), because we do include a meaningful ministry, prayerfully asking for blessings, comfort, and joy to those who may receive our shawls. Come and see.
On Sunday, October 5, the Neighbors In Need offering will be received. This special offering supports the UCC’s Ministries of Justice and Compassion throughout the United States. Please mark this date and give as generously as you can.
God is Still Giving: How Can I Help?
Over the past few years, the United Church of Christ initiated a dialogue with its members and the rest of the country with its “God is Still Speaking” campaign. This fall, members of Christ Church can look forward to a homegrown twist for the 2008 Stewardship Campaign: “God is Still Giving: How Can I Help?”
Beginning on September 28 and continuing through the fall, the Stewardship Committee will start a conversation within Christ Church to answer that question and illustrate how Christ Church and its members can continue helping in the Elizabethtown community and beyond. Following are the dates and themes when the committee will explore the question, “How can I help?”:
· By caring for God’s earth, September 28
· By caring for God’s people, October 5
· By caring for God’s church, October 12
The campaign will culminate on October 19, as the congregational members commit themselves as God’s helpers. As the campaign starts, the Stewardship Committee encourages all members of Christ Church to start thinking about ways they can help.
OCTOBER 25, 2008
Come on an early morning walk with members of the Outreach Committee for Adopt-A-Highway. We will meet at the church by 9:00 AM on Saturday, October 25th. Helping to care for our environment is one way of doing God’s work. Please sign up on the “Church Happenings” board or call Peg Miller at 367-3934.
Saturday, November 8, is the next date for our church’s participation in the local clothing bank. Starting Monday, October 6, and up to Friday, November 1, we will be collecting good used clothing. We will accept all sizes of men’s, women’s and children’s clean, used clothing. Especially needed are infant’s and children’s clothing. Items may be dropped off at the shed behind the back parking lot during regular office hours, or on Sunday mornings from 9:00 to 11:30 AM.
* Sort items and place like items in separate bags, marking what type is in each bag (e.g. children, women, etc) - this will greatly facilitate the set up at the center! * Do not donate shoes or men’s suits. Also, if you wouldn’t feel good wearing an item due to stains or tears, don’t expect someone else will want it.
Volunteers are needed to help sort clothing from 9:00 AM—noon on the following Saturdays: October 11, 18, 25, and November 1. We are also in need of volunteers to help load up and transport clothing to GEARS on Friday evening, and sort clothing at GEARS, Saturday morning at 7:30 AM. Please call Susan Van Skiver at 367-9944 if you would like to help.
THE JOY OF GIFT GIVING THROUGH
CHRISTMAS IN NOVEMBER
November 2, 2008
On Sunday, November 2nd, at both services, we will be celebrating our annual Christmas in November event. We have chosen to work again with Water Street Mission in Lancaster city, as they provide transitional housing to eight families, approximately 50 women and 30 children. Along with a place to live, the Mission provides a nurturing environment and helpful information about job opportunities and educational facilities. WE help with our gifts of personal and family needs.
On Sunday, October 12, Sunday, October 19, and Sunday, October 26, you are asked to check the tables at the back of the sanctuary where you can make your choice from the list of gifts provided and pick up a gift bag and ribbon at the same time. On Sunday, November 2nd, return the gift item or items you have purchased, placed in the appropriate gift bag, tied and tagged, for presentation during the service.
Maria Schaszberger, Public Relations and Media Coordinator for Water Street Mission, will be our guest speaker at both services on November 2nd, as we present our gifts. Christmas in November, in a very personal way, gives us an opportunity to reach out to someone who really appreciates the help.
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