Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
This Sunday we will continue (and conclude) our two-week sermon series on Sabbath. Last week we explored the need for personal Sabbath. This week we will explore the idea of a Sabbath for all of creation. The scripture is Leviticus 25: 1 –18 and my sermon title is “A Just Sabbath.”
To follow some of my own advice from last week’s sermon, I will be taking some time off next week. I will be away from Monday, September 30 (after the morning Bible study) through Saturday, October 5. I’ll be back in worship for World Communion Sunday, October 6. For pastoral emergencies while I am away, please contact Pastor Jon Heavilin (New Pittsburg UMC) at 330-464-8953.
Below you’ll find details about upcoming service opportunities and fellowship events for your consideration.
World Communion Sunday
Next Sunday, October 6, we will join Christians around the globe in World Communion Sunday. Members are encouraged to dress in clothing that reflects your heritage or other countries you have visited as we celebrate the unity of Christ’s body in the four corners of the world.
United Methodist Women’s Unit Meeting
The United Methodist Women’s quarterly meeting will be next Sunday, October 6, immediately following worship in Fellowship Hall. All women of the church are invited! We will have a short program and the election of officers. Bring a sack lunch and a smile.
Blessing of the Animals
We will have our second annual Blessing of the Animals next Sunday, October 6 at 3:00pm. We’ll gather under the oak tree for a time of thanksgiving and prayer, then Pastor Robin will pray for and bless each person and animal present. Please make sure your pet is on a leash or in a pet carrier. If you cannot bring your animal, bring a picture. Last year we blessed dogs, cats and a turtle. All animals welcome!
The BAZAAR is coming!!
The countdown begins! Our annual bazaar is just four weeks away. Saturday, October 26. Have you started your projects? Have you considered in which area you would like to work? It takes all of us working together to make this event a success. And of course, we need shoppers, too, so tell your friends, family and co-workers to come that day and stay for the best lunch in town! In preparation for this event, we will make mincemeat this Saturday, October 12 at 9am. Please see Miriam Zech or Elizabeth Feldman for more information. Candy making begins Monday October 14 at 6:15pm.
Mystery Goes Hollywood
Do you like live theater? Like to eat? (The latter goes without saying here at Oak Chapel!) Let’s do both! A mystery comedy, “Mystery Goes Hollywood” is being presented at The Amish Door in Wilmot. Dates and prices are: Friday, October 18 matinee: $35.50 ($32.50 for group of 10 or more); Friday and Saturday evenings: $38 ($35.50 for 10 or more). Reservations are required and prices include a bountiful meal served family style. This gives three dates to select from. These are good shows and not too far from home. A list will be in the narthex and those interested can select a preferable date or two. More definite arrangements will be determined according to interest and Betty Franks will contact you.
Community Service
Oak Chapel is seeking individuals who would be willing to volunteer one or two afternoons a week to make a Community Latchkey Program a reality for families in our area. The program would serve elementary students from neighboring school districts that have bus transportation in our immediate area. We would offer a safe place for elementary students to go after school until their parents get off work. The program would run daily from approximately 3:00-6:00 p.m. We would meet in Fellowship Hall, provide snacks, homework help and activities for the children. Please prayerfully consider if this is where God is calling you to be Christ’s hands, feet and heart. Contact Pam Domer at 330-601-3926 if interested.
Mark Your Calendars Now!
On Sunday, November 10, we will host a HymnFest in our sanctuary at 3:00pm. Oak Chapel UMC was selected by the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship to host this event and we are very excited about this opportunity. More information and details will be shared in future Nutshells, Acorns and bulletins.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 9/29 – Sunday School at 9:30am
Worship at 10:30am
Youth Group at 6:30pm
Monday, 9/30 – Bible Study at 10:15am
Wednesday, 10/2 – Morning Circle at 9:30am
New Testament 101 at 6:30pm
Choir rehearsal at 7:30pm
Saturday, 10/5 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
Itis a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. I look forward to seeing you in church on Sunday!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin