Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
I had a wonderful time on the UMW trip to New York City last weekend. Our seminar on human trafficking at the Church Center for the United Nations was both engaging and thought-provoking, and compelled us to action. This Sunday, the group will briefly share their experiences at the UMW Unit meeting after worship. Bring a sack lunch and join us for the meeting. The group will also share more extensively with the whole congregation on Sunday, November 16, presenting ways that we can take action right against human trafficking right here in our own community.
This Sunday is also World Communion Sunday, a day set aside to celebrate this sacrament with our sisters and brothers around the globe. 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. My sermon, “Pressing on to the Holy,” is based on Philippians 3: 4b – 14.
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
Parking Lot Project is Complete!
The parking lot project is now complete and it looks beautiful! Many thanks to all who helped to make this church dream a reality – including those who contributed to the fund, the Trustees, and especially Roger Burckhart for the countless hours of his own work preparing the lot as well as his research and work with our contractors.
Sunday Evening Bible Study on Luke
Pastor Robin’s Bible Study on Luke begins Sunday night at 6:30pm in Fellowship Hall. In this study we will explore the author’s purpose for writing this gospel and five distinctive themes found in Luke including: Good News to the Poor; Release and Restoration; Possessions and Wealth; Hospitality and Table Fellowship; and The Status of Women. The sessions will run from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Candy Making
It’s that time of year! Preparations are being made for our annual candy-making season. Starting Monday, October 13 and every Monday thereafter throughout October and November, we will gather at 6:15 p.m. to make and cut our famous glass (hard-tack) candy. No experience necessary! We will provide training! Come enjoy the fellowship as we work together.
Church-wide meetings
In preparation for our annual Church Conference on November 9, we will hold two church-wide meetings after worship on Sundays, October 12 and 26. At the first meeting on 10/12, the Finance and Nominating Committees will present the budget and leadership roster for 2015 and answer questions. The purpose of the meeting on 10/26 is to approve these items for our church conference.
It’s Mincemeat Time!
This year we will cook and can the tasty mixture on Saturday, October 18 beginning at 8:30 a.m. We need the most help at the beginning – chopping apples – so we can get the simmering started quickly. Miriam Zech is coordinating this project and will accept ALL help as well as donations of brown sugar, crushed pineapple, raisins and cash to purchase meat and cider.
Annual Bazaar
The Annual Bazaar will be Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Our success always depends on YOU! We need crafts, both decorative and useful, treats for the Kitchen Korner, and some Nice As New table offerings. We need some food prepared for the Luncheon and foods we sell – always a big hit. Help is needed in all departments all day. Look for opportunities to sign up. See Miriam Zech for more information.
Trunk or Treat
Mark your calendars now! The Outreach Committee is very excited about our fourth annual Trunk or Treat, which will be held on Sunday, October 26 from 3:30 – 5:00pm in our parking lot. Decorate your trunk, dress up if you wish, and get ready to hand out candy to the children in our community. There will be snacks and cookie decorating, and a contest for the most creative trunk.
Fellowship Luncheons
Our first Fellowship Luncheon of the season will be held after worship on Sunday, October 19. Oak Chapel has traditionally held these luncheons on the third Sunday of each month during Fall and Winter (October through March). Please join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship for some scrumptious food and fabulous fellowship. This is a great way to build and grow relationships with others in our community of faith. Bring a dish to share and your own table service.
All Saints Sunday
On Sunday, November 2, we will celebrate All Saints Day during worship. This special day on the liturgical calendar is a time to remember those “in the company of heaven” with whom we always worship and share the Lord’s Supper. We will read the names of and light a candle for those who have died since All Saints Day last year. If you would like your loved one included, please contact Pastor Robin.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 10/5 – Sunday School at 9:30am
World Communion Worship at 10:30am
UMW Unit Meeting at 11:45am
Pastor Robin’s Bible Study at 6:30pm
Youth Groups at 6:30pm
Monday, 10/6 – Retirees Breakfast at 8:00am
Bible Study at 10:15am
Nominations Committee at 6:00pm
Art and Soul at 7:00pm
Finance Committee at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 10/7 – Administrative Council at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 10/8 – Choir rehearsal at 7:30pm
Thursday, 10/9 – History Scrapbooking at 6:30pm
Saturday, 10/11 – United Methodist Men – Green Leaf at 7:30am
It is 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