In A Nutshell | April 1, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
This Sunday, April 3, is Holy Humor Sunday. It is a celebration of the fact that the resurrection of Jesus is God’s ultimate joke on evil and death. It is a testament to the God who the Psalmist says “sits in the heavens and laughs” (Psalm 2:4) at the foolishness of humanity and any forces that might seek to thwart divine purposes. I encourage you to join us for this second Sunday of Easter service that builds on the good news we celebrated last Sunday – that Christ is Risen! My sermon, titled “Peace (and Joy!) Be with You” is based on John 20: 19 – 31. During the service we will take some “joy breaks” in which worshipers will have an opportunity to share a funny story or joke if they feel comfortable doing so. Come, have your worries lifted, and laugh and smile with us.
 
Below you will also find other announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 4/3 is Evelyn Silver.  Her assistant next Sunday, 4/10 is Phyllis Weaver.
 
Art and Soul
Please plan to join us at 7:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall the first Monday of each month as we explore varying art media and fellowship together. On Monday, April 4, We will make an origami butterfly table decoration. New art/craft ideas are always welcome.  For more information, please contact Pam Domer. 
 
Northwest Territory Concert
Reservations for the United Methodist Men’s All Sons Banquet are now closed. However, everyone is invited for the entertainment that evening: Northwest Territory Bluegrass Band.  This band has traveled both nationally and internationally and their music not only includes bluegrass, but gospel, country and folk as well. The program, which is sure to please, will begin at7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
 
UMW Sunday
Next Sunday, April 10, is United Methodist Women’s Sunday. Our speaker will be Kelsey Desmond, director of The Seminary Hill Farm at Methodist Theological School in Ohio. The farm supplies food for the seminary cafeteria and students work on the farm. 
 
New Copier
The church has been in need of a new copier for quite some time.  Last year, the Finance Committee set up a copier savings fund and each month we have been putting money aside for this purpose. To date, we have saved $1,200. Over the last few months we have received quotes from various office equipment companies, and at their meeting on March 21, the Trustees voted to purchase a new Xerox Color 6655 machine for $2,245 from ComDoc in Wooster, borrowing the balance of $1,045 from our general fund.  The new copier was delivered this week. Last Sunday we received some contributions and now only need $600 to repay the general fund. Should you wish to donate to the copier fund, please make your check payable to Oak Chapel UMC and note “copier fund” on the memo line. Thank you for your ongoing support of our church and its ministries.
 
New Member Sunday
We will receive new members at Oak Chapel UMC on Sunday, April 17 during worship. Anyone wishing to join the church that day should contact Pastor Robin by next Sunday, April 10. We look forward to officially welcoming folks into our fellowship.
 
Special Fellowship Luncheon
On April 17 we will have a special Fellowship Dinner hosted by the Franks Clan—Eleanor, Esther, Betty, Betsy and Miriam. After dinner we will be treated to a slide show of the Wayne County Courthouse Renovation. It will be presented by Scott Wiggam, County Commissioner and son-in-law of the Grape Lady (If you have been an Oak Chapel-ite for a long time, you should remember her!) The same Fellowship Dinner rules apply- bring a dish or two to share and your own table service. It would be a great time to invite friends to Oak Chapel for our Sunday Service and dinner or even just to see the presentation.
 
Church Work Day
The Trustees invite all members of the church to participate in our church work day on Saturday, April 30. We will gather that day to do some general clean-up of the church building and grounds including cleaning windows, picking up sticks and raking. Many hands make light work. Please join us at 9:00 a.m. and work as long as you can. We should conclude by Noon. God has entrusted us with a beautiful facility and we want to be good stewards of it.   
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 4/3 – Sunday School at 9:30am
              Worship at 10:30am
              Confirmation Class at 6:00pm
              Youth Groups at 7:00pm
Monday, 4/4 – Retirees Breakfast – Town Market at 8:00am
              Bible Study at 9:15am
              Art and Soul at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 4/5 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 4/6 – Morning Circle at 9:30am
             Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Saturday, 4/9 – United Methodist Men – Green Leaf at 7:30am
             Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
             All Sons Dinner at 5:30pm
             Northwest Territory Concert at 7:00pm
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | March 25, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Today is Good Friday. By all standards, the events of that day were anything but “good.” Jesus was beaten, tortured and suffered a horrific death. As Christians two thousand years later, we now view this day from a different perspective; we view it in light of the resurrection, knowing that God can indeed transform even the most difficult and tragic circumstances and make something “good” come out of it.
 
We have a busy weekend ahead of us at Oak Chapel as we remember Christ’s death on the cross and celebrate his love for us and triumph over death. This evening, the combined choirs of the Wooster area United Methodist Churches will present the cantata “Jesus, Son of God” in our sanctuary at 7:00 p.m. Tomorrow morning is our annual community Easter Egg Hunt on the parsonage lawn. Come get your picture taken with the Easter Bunny and join us for the festivities at 10:30 a.m. On Sunday morning you won’t want to miss the early service led by our confirmation class and youth groups at 8:00 a.m. Afterwards the adult Sunday School classes will host our Easter Breakfast in Fellowship Hall. Sunday School is at 9:30, then stay for our traditional resurrection celebration with Holy Communion at 10:30. The scripture for the day is John 20: 1 – 18 and my message is titled “Alleluia, I Go.”
 
Below you will also find other announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 3/27 is Cathy Shallenberger.  Her assistant next Sunday, 4/3 is Evelyn Silver.
 
Holy Humor Sunday
Many American churches have resurrected an old Easter custom begun by the Greeks in the early centuries of Christianity. For centuries in Eastern Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant countries, the week following Easter Sunday, including “Bright Sunday” (the Sunday after Easter), was observed by the faithful as “days of joy and laughter” with parties and picnics to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. Churchgoers and pastors played practical jokes on each other, drenched each other with water, told jokes, sang, and danced. The custom was rooted in the musings of early church theologians (like Augustine, Gregory of Nyssa, and John Chrysostom) that God played a practical joke on the devil by raising Jesus from the dead. “Risus paschalis – the Easter laugh,” the early theologians called it. On Sunday, April 3, we will honor Holy Humor Sunday at Oak Chapel UMC.  Come see what we have “up our sleeves” for that day and join in the joy and laughter, celebrating God’s love for us.  Jesus laughed and we should, too!
 
All Sons Banquet
The United Methodist Men will host the All Sons Banquet on Saturday, April 9 beginning at 5:30 p.m. All men are invited! Please reserve your spot with Kim Domer by Easter Sunday, March 27. The entertainment for the evening is Northwest Territory Bluegrass Band. This band has traveled both nationally and internationally and their music not only includes bluegrass, but gospel, country and folk as well. The program, which is sure to please, will begin at7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
 
New Copier
The church has been in need of a new copier for quite some time.  Last year, the Finance Committee set up a copier savings fund and each month we have been putting money aside for this purpose. To date, we have saved $1,200. Over the last few months we have received quotes from various office equipment companies, and at their meeting on March 21, the Trustees voted to purchase a new Xerox Color 6655 machine for $2,245 from ComDoc in Wooster. We are seeking contributions totaling $1,045 to complete the purchase. Should you wish to donate to the copier fund, please make your check payable to Oak Chapel UMC and note “copier fund” on the memo line. Thank you for your ongoing support of our church and its ministries.
 
New Member Sunday
We will receive new members at Oak Chapel UMC on Sunday, April 17 during worship. Anyone wishing to join the church that day should contact Pastor Robin by Sunday, April 10. We look forward to officially welcoming folks into our fellowship.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 3/27 – Early Worship at 8:00am
Easter Breakfast at 8:45am
Sunday School at 9:30am
Worship at 10:30am
Monday, 3/28 – Bible Study at 9:15am
Prayer Shawl Ministry at 5:30pm
Tuesday, 3/29 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 3/30 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Thursday, 3/31 – Staff-Parish Relations Committee at 7:00pm
Saturday, 4/2 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | March 18, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Holy Week is upon us. It is the busiest week on the church calendar with many services of remembrance of Jesus’ journey to the cross. This Sunday is Palm Sunday, a day marking Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem – that place where he was cheered the one day and jeered the next; that place where he spent his final days with his disciples and came face to face with his death. As a child I never really understood Palm Sunday. At church I joined the other children singing the festive songs and waving the palm branches. We had a Jesus parade and I loved parades! I equated the image of Jesus riding the donkey into Jerusalem with Santa Claus at the end of the Thanksgiving parade – he brought smiles to our faces; the “big man” was now here and all was right with the world. It was quite a festive time! Yet the story doesn’t end there and indeed all was NOT right with the world. Knowing what lies ahead puts a damper on the celebration – and I think it should. Thinking of Palm Sunday only as a parade takes it out of context and negates the events that led up to that day and those things that came after Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.
 
It is also easy for us to make Palm Sunday a pre-Easter celebration. We look ahead and we know the end of the story. It is tempting to just skim over the events in the middle of the week and go from celebration to celebration without experiencing the darkest part of the journey. Yet we cannot really understand Easter and celebrate the joy of the resurrection without experiencing the pain of Good Friday. We cannot fully understand the light unless we have experienced darkness. The details for our Maundy Thursday worship and Good Friday cantata are listed below. I encourage you to participate in these services so that you can truly appreciate the resurrection on Easter Sunday!
 
My message for this Palm Sunday is titled “It’s in the Details,” based on Luke 19: 28 – 40. There will be a fellowship luncheon after worship. Please bring a dish or two to share and your table service. I look forward to worshiping with you!
 
Below you will also find other announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 3/20 is Cindy Mykrantz.  Her assistant next Sunday, 3/27 is Cathy Shallenberger.
 
Maundy Thursday worship
The word maundy comes from the Latin word mandatum, meaning commandment, taken from some of Jesus’ final words to his disciples as he washed their feet at the Last Supper, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.”  Join us on Thursday, March 24 at 7:00 p.m. as we remember Jesus’ final meal with his disciples.
 
Good Friday Cantata
Members of the choirs of the Church of the Cross, Moreland, Oak Chapel and Wooster United Methodist Churches will present the Good Friday Cantata “Jesus, Son of God” on Friday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m. at Oak Chapel. Eyewitness testimonies are woven into this musical that reflects the father-heart of God and traces God’s greatest sacrifice for us – Jesus Christ.
 
Easter Sunday Worship
Join us for our early service at 8:00 a.m. This service will be led by our confirmation class and youth groups. Following this service, the adult Sunday School classes will host our Easter Breakfast in Fellowship Hall. Come to Sunday School at 9:30 a.m., then stay for our traditional Resurrection Celebration at 10:30 a.m.
 
Easter Egg Hunt
Our annual Community Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday, March 26 at 10:30 a.m. Come see the Easter Bunny and hunt for eggs! Please invite your relatives and neighbors to bring their children for a morning of fun.
 
All Sons Banquet
The United Methodist Men will host the All Sons Banquet on Saturday, April 9 beginning at 5:30 p.m. All men are invited! Please reserve your spot with Kim Domer by Easter Sunday, March 27. The entertainment for the evening is Northwest Territory Bluegrass Band. This band has traveled both nationally and internationally and their music not only includes bluegrass, but gospel, country and folk as well. The program, which is sure to please, will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 3/20 – Sunday School at 9:30am 
   Worship at 10:30am 
   Blood Pressure Screenings after worship 
   Fellowship Luncheon after worship 
   Confirmation Class at 6:00pm 
   Youth Groups at 7:00pm
Monday, 3/21 – Bible Study at 9:15am 
   Trustees at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 3/22 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm 
   Membership Care Committee at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 3/23 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Thursday, 3/24 – Maundy Thursday Service at 7:00pm
Friday, 3/25 – Good Friday Cantata at 7:00pm
Saturday, 3/26 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am 
   Easter Egg Hunt at 10:30am 
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | March 11, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Spring Forward!  Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour tomorrow night before you go to bed. Then join us for worship on Sunday morning at 10:30 Eastern Daylight Time. You won’t want to miss our Second Sunday Selfie Day. Bring your phone to church and take a selfie with your pewmate, me, or others and then post them to social media with the hashtags #selfiesunday #oakchapelumc. This is an easy way to let others know you worship at Oak Chapel. My sermon this week is titled “Love Generously, Give Abundantly,” based on John 12: 1 – 8. I look forward to worshiping with you.
 
Below you will also find other announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 3/13 is Joanne Jolliff.  Her assistant next Sunday, 3/20 is Cindy Mykrantz.
 
Last Lenten Service
This Sunday, March 13 is our last Sunday Evening worship service held in conjunction with the other United Methodist Churches in Wooster. Please join us as Church of the Cross UMC at 7:00 p.m. with Rev. Charlie Tobias preaching on Revelation 21. There will be refreshments after the service.
 
Maundy Thursday worship
The word maundy comes from the Latin word mandatum, meaning commandment, taken from some of Jesus’ final words to his disciples as he washed their feet at the Last Supper, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.”  Join us on Thursday, March 24 at 7:00 p.m. as we remember Jesus’ final meal with his disciples.
Good Friday Cantata
Members of the choirs of the Church of the Cross, Moreland, Oak Chapel and Wooster United Methodist Churches will present the Good Friday Cantata “Jesus, Son of God” on Friday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m. at Oak Chapel. Eyewitness testimonies are woven into this musical that reflects the father-heart of God and traces God’s greatest sacrifice for us – Jesus Christ.
 
Easter Sunday Worship
Join us for our early service at 8:00 a.m. This service will be led by our confirmation class and youth groups. Following this service, the adult Sunday School classes will host our Easter Breakfast in Fellowship Hall. Come to Sunday School at 9:30 a.m., then stay for our traditional Resurrection Celebration at 10:30 a.m.
Easter Egg Hunt
Our annual Community Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday, March 26 at 10:30 a.m. Come see the Easter Bunny and hunt for eggs! Please invite your relatives and neighbors to bring their children for a morning of fun.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 3/13 – Sunday School at 9:30am
           Worship at 10:30am
           Lenten Service – Church of the Cross at 7:00pm
Monday, 3/14 – Bible Study at 9:15am
Tuesday, 3/15 – Election Day
           Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Thursday, 3/17 – United Methodist Women at Shreve at 5:30pm
           4 – H at 7:00pm
Saturday, 3/19 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
           UMW Executive Team at 10:30am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | March 4, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Please join us for worship this Sunday, March 6 as we celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion. My message, titled “The Undesirable Son” is based on a very familiar text – Luke 15: 1 – 3, 11b – 32. There are always new things to be learned from familiar passages and I trust you will come to hear a new twist on this one.  
 
Below you will also find other announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 3/6 is Tracy Braucher.  Her assistant next Sunday, 3/13 is Joanne Jolliff.
 
Art and Soul
Please plan to join us for Art and Soul at 7:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall the first Monday of each month as we explore varying art media and fellowship together. This Monday, March 7 Pam Domer will lead us in an activity with polymer clay. Everyone is welcome. 
 
Spring Plants to Decorate for Easter
Order a lily, daffodil, tulip or pansy basket to help decorate the sanctuary in celebration of the resurrection of Christ on Sunday, March 27. Each plant will cost $10 and can be given in memory or honor of someone. Order forms are in the Narthex and the office. The last day to order is this Sunday, March 6.
 
Easter Egg Hunt
Our annual Community Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday, March 26 at 10:30 a.m. Come see the Easter Bunny and hunt for eggs! Please invite your relatives and neighbors to bring their children for a morning of fun.
 
Second Sunday Selfie Day
Next Sunday, March 13 is Second Sunday Selfie Day. Everyone is encouraged to bring their phone to worship and take a selfie with their pewmate, the pastor, or whomever, and then post those pics to social media with the hash tags #selfiesunday and #oakchapelumc. This is a simple way to tell others you worship at Oak Chapel United Methodist Church!
 
Evening Lenten Worship Services
We continue our annual tradition of Sunday evening worship with other United Methodists. This year, all five of the United Methodist Churches in Wooster will participate. The theme is “Finding Home” and offerings will go to Wayne County Habitat for Humanity. The services will be held at 7:00 p.m., with the schedule is as follows:
Sunday, March 6 – New Pittsburg UMC with Rev. Robin Dillon preaching (Psalm 84)
Sunday, March 13 – Church of the Cross UMC with Rev. Charlie Tobias preaching (Revelation 21)
 
People to People
Please remember to bring in non-perishable items to support those in need in our area through the People to People Ministries.  Last year, People to People Ministries provided assistance to over 10,000 Wayne County applicants. On average 1 out of 12 residents of Wayne County, Ohio, could need their services.  Your monthly donation helps to make this ministry possible.  Our collection each month, which coordinates with the celebration of our Lord’s supper is an opportunity for you to share in the blessings God has given you with those in need.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 3/6 – Sunday School at 9:30am
             Worship at 10:30am
          Confirmation Class at 6:00pm
          Lenten Service – New Pittsburg UMC at 7:00pm
Monday, 3/7 – Retirees Breakfast – Towne Market at 8:00am
          Bible Study at 9:15am
          Art and Soul at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 3/8 – Outreach Committee at 10:30am
          Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 3/9 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Thursday, 3/10 – Christian Education Committee at 7:00pm
Friday, 3/11 – Saturday, 3/12 – Girl Scout Overnight
Saturday, 3/12 – United Methodist Men – Green Leaf at 7:30am
          Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | February 26, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
We know that February is the shortest month of the year, but it seems to have flown by especially quick this year! Whew! As we look toward March, we begin to prepare our hearts for Easter and the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. My prayer for each of you is that during this season you will experience anew the life-giving hope of our Savior.
 
This Sunday we will celebrate the ministry of those offering hope to others across the globe. Caroline and Dan Shadburn will join us for worship at 10:30 a.m. and will share stores and pictures from their most recent mission trip to Cuba in December. Invite your friends and neighbors to hear about their important work.
 
Below you will also find other announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 2/28 is April Aten.  Her assistant next Sunday, 3/6 is Tracy Braucher.
 
Spring Plants to Decorate for Easter
Order a lily, daffodil, tulip or pansy basket to help decorate the sanctuary in celebration of the resurrection of Christ on Sunday, March 27. Each plant will cost $10 and can be given in memory or honor of someone. Order forms are in the Narthex and the office. The last day to order is Sunday, March 6.
 
Evening Lenten Worship Services
We continue our annual tradition of Sunday evening worship with other United Methodists. This year, all five of the United Methodist Churches in Wooster will participate. The theme is “Finding Home” and offerings will go to Wayne County Habitat for Humanity. The services will be held at 7:00 p.m., with the schedule is as follows:
Sunday, February 28 – Moreland UMC with Rev. Kris Patt preaching (Joshua 24:15)
Sunday, March 6 – New Pittsburg UMC with Rev. Robin Dillon preaching (Psalm 84)
Sunday, March 13 – Church of the Cross UMC with Rev. Charlie Tobias preaching (Revelation 21)
 
Outreach – Easter Egg Hunt
The Outreach Committee is requesting your help as we plan for this year’s Community Easter Egg Hunt.  Committee members will gather together after our next meeting on March 8 to fill plastic Easter Eggs for the hunt.  We need your help in providing the candy to fill the eggs. We are in need of wrapped candy that will fit in two-inch plastic eggs. We typically fill between 750-1000 eggs with small trinkets and candy. If you can help by donating a bag of wrapped candy, please leave it in the church office by Sunday, March 6. The Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday, March 26 at 10:30 a.m. Please invite your relatives and neighbors to bring their children for a morning of fun.
 
People to People
Please remember to bring in non-perishable items to support those in need in our area through the People to People Ministries.  Last year, People to People Ministries provided assistance to over 10,000 Wayne County applicants. On average 1 out of 12 residents of Wayne County, Ohio, could need their services.  Your monthly donation helps to make this ministry possible.  Our collection each month, which coordinates with the celebration of our Lord’s supper is an opportunity for you to share in the blessings God has given you with those in need.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 2/28 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                         Worship / Cuba Mission Update at 10:30am
                         Leave for Canton Charge Game at 1:45pm
                         Lenten Service – Moreland UMC at 7:00pm
Monday, 2/29 – Bible Study at 9:15am
                         Staff Parish Relations Committee at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 3/1 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 3/2 – Morning Circle at 9:30am
                         Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Saturday, 3/5 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | February 19, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Thanks to all who participated in our Second Sunday Selfie Day last week during worship. It was a fun way to share news about our church via social media outlets. In case you missed it, check out the church Facebook page!
 
Though I have published this before, given recent social media conversations, I thought it might be helpful for me to share my personal social media policy again. I am more than willing to be your “friend” on Facebook and other social media and will accept all friend requests from parishioners. I enjoy seeing pictures, reading posts and learning about people in this way. However, out of respect for each person’s privacy, I do not send friend requests to parishioners. If you have any questions about this, please don’t hesitate to ask.  
 
Our Winter Rally Day is this Sunday, February 21. The theme is “It’s Snow Fun!” and our worship will center on 1 Corinthians 12:27 where we will explore the uniqueness of snowflakes and their correlation to us.  This is held in conjunction with our monthly fellowship luncheon. So bring a dish or two to share, as well as your table service. There will be games and prizes during the luncheon so you won’t want to miss it!
 
Below you will also find other announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 2/21 is Miriam Zech.  Her assistant next Sunday, 2/28 is April Aten.
 
Canton Charge Basketball Game
The United Methodist Men are sponsoring a trip to see the Canton Charge at the Canton Civic Center on Sunday, February 28. The game starts at 3:00 p.m. We will carpool from the church parking lot, leaving at 1:45 p.m. Kim Domer has prepaid for 10 tickets at $14.50 each. Additional tickets can also be purchased at this price. Please see Kim to reserve your spot for this afternoon of fun and fellowship.
 
Cuba Mission Update
On Sunday, February 28, Dan and Caroline Shadburn will join us for worship and share stories from their most recent mission trip to Cuba in December. Dan and Caroline very much appreciate the support of Oak Chapel UMC. Come hear about their important mission work.
 
Spring Plants to Decorate for Easter
Order a lily, daffodil, tulip or pansy basket to help decorate the sanctuary in celebration of the resurrection of Christ on Sunday, March 27. Each plant will cost $10 and can be given in memory or honor of someone. Forms will be in this Sunday’s bulletin. The last day to order is Sunday, March 6.
 
Evening Lenten Worship Services
Last Sunday we began our annual tradition of Sunday evening worship with other United Methodists. This year, all five of the United Methodist Churches in Wooster will participate. The theme is “Finding Home” and offerings will go to Wayne County Habitat for Humanity. The services will be held at 7:00 p.m., except on Sunday, February 21 when Wooster UMC will host Tetelestai. That service will be at 2:00 p.m. The schedule is as follows:
Sunday, February 21 – Wooster UMC hosting Tetelestai (a Passion Play “It is Finished”) at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 28 – Moreland UMC with Rev. Kris Patt preaching (Joshua 24:15)
Sunday, March 6 – New Pittsburg UMC with Rev. Robin Dillon preaching (Psalm 84)
Sunday, March 13 – Church of the Cross UMC with Rev. Charlie Tobias preaching (Revelation 21)
 
Electronic Sign Update
Over the last two years the Trustees and the Memorials Committee have been working to get a new church sign to enhance our church’s presence on Old Lincoln Way. At their meeting on January 18, the Trustees voted to get the necessary permits, and pending final commitments of memorial funds, the sign will be ordered and the necessary foundation work will begin. Renderings of the sign have been posted on the bulletin boards throughout the church building. Take a look! 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 2/21 – Sunday School at 9:30am
               Winter Rally Day Worship at 10:30am
               Rally Day Fellowship luncheon after worship
               Blood Pressure Screenings after worship
               Lenten Service – Tetelestai (WUMC) at 2:00pm
               Confirmation Class at 6:00pm
               Youth Group at 7:00pm
Monday, 2/22 – Bible Study at 9:15am
               Prayer Shawl Ministry at 5:30pm
Tuesday, 2/23 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 2/24 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Saturday, 2/27 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | February 12, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Many thanks to those who braved the weather on Wednesday night to attend our Ash Wednesday service and begin the holy season of Lent. Lent is a time for us to clean out our closets – those inner places where we hide our junk to create an appearance of a neat and tidy life. What is it that we are hiding? And who are we hiding from? What are our inner motivations? God calls us to take stock of these things to prepare our hearts for the transformation of Easter. Won’t you begin this Lenten journey in church this Sunday? My sermon, titled “An Opportune Time,” is based on Luke 4: 1 – 13.
 
Our Sunday evening Lenten series begins this week, too. We are hosting the service, Rev. Tom Fish from Moreland UMC will preach, and there will be refreshments in Fellowship Hall afterwards. See further details below.
 
Below you will also find other announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 2/14 is Phyllis Weaver.  Her assistant next Sunday, 2/21 is Miriam Zech.
 
Canton Charge Basketball Game
The United Methodist Men are sponsoring a trip to see the Canton Charge at the Canton Civic Center on Sunday, February 28. The game starts at 3:00 p.m. We will carpool from the church parking lot, leaving at 1:45 p.m. Kim Domer has prepaid for 10 tickets at $14.50 each. Additional tickets can also be purchased at this price. Please see Kim to reserve your spot for this afternoon of fun and fellowship.
 
Second Sunday Selfie Day
This week is Second Sunday Selfie Day. The goal of this emphasis is to enhance our church’s presence on social media. Take a selfie with your pewmate, the pastor, or whomever, and then post those pics to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or other social media with the hash tags #selfiesunday and #oakchapelumc. This is a simple way to tell others you worship at Oak Chapel United Methodist Church! If you don’t know how to post pictures to social media, the pics can also be texted to April Aten (330-234-1940) or Pastor Robin (330-234-7717) and they will post them to the church’s social media sites for you.
 
Winter Rally Day
It’s just two weeks away! Our Winter Rally Day on Sunday, February 21. The theme of the day is “It’s Snow Fun!” and our worship will center on 1 Corinthians 12:27 where we will explore the uniqueness of snowflakes and their correlation to us.  There will be a few surprises in worship so you won’t want to miss it! Then stick around afterwards for our Fellowship Luncheon with more fun and games.
 
Evening Lenten Worship Services
During Lent we will continue our annual tradition of Sunday evening worship with other United Methodists. This year, all five of the United Methodist Churches in Wooster will participate. The theme is “Finding Home” and offerings will go to Wayne County Habitat for Humanity. The services will be held at 7:00 p.m., except on Sunday, February 21 when Wooster UMC will host Tetelestai. That service will be at 2:00 p.m. The schedule is as follows:
Sunday, February 14 – Oak Chapel UMC with Rev. Tom Fish preaching (John 14)
Sunday, February 21 – Wooster UMC hosting Tetelestai (a Passion Play “It is Finished”) at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 28 – Moreland UMC with Rev. Kris Patt preaching (Joshua 24:15)
Sunday, March 6 – New Pittsburg UMC with Rev. Robin Dillon preaching (Psalm 84)
Sunday, March 13 – Church of the Cross UMC with Rev. Charlie Tobias preaching (Revelation 21)
 
Electronic Sign Update
Over the last two years the Trustees and the Memorials Committee have been working to get a new church sign to enhance our church’s presence on Old Lincoln Way. At their meeting on January 18, the Trustees voted to get the necessary permits, and pending final commitments of memorial funds, the sign will be ordered and the necessary foundation work will begin. Renderings of the sign have been posted on the bulletin boards throughout the church building. Take a look! 
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 2/14 – Sunday School at 9:30am
               Worship at 10:30am
               Lenten Worship at Oak Chapel at 7:00pm
Monday, 2/15 – Acorn Deadline!
               Bible Study at 9:15am
               Trustees at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 2/16 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
               Membership Care Committee at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 2/17 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Saturday, 2/20 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | February 5, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Time is sure flying by in this New Year! How did it get to be February already? That means that the Lenten season is upon us. Observe a Holy Lent and mark the beginning of the season next Wednesday, February 10 at 7:00 p.m. at our Ash Wednesday worship. This traditional service will include the celebration of Holy Communion and the imposition of ashes.
 
This Sunday our worship will focus on the Transfiguration of Jesus, as outlined in Luke 9: 28 – 36, with my sermon titled “Seeing Things in a New Light.” As this is the first Sunday of the month, we will celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion. As we fellowship around Christ’s table, please remember those who are physically hungry by bringing canned goods and pantry items for People to People ministries. I look forward to sharing this worship experience with you.
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 2/7 is Evelyn Silver.  Her assistant next Sunday, 2/14 is Phyllis Weaver.
 
Second Sunday Selfie Day
To enhance Oak Chapel’s presence on our social media outlets, beginning February 14, the second Sunday of each month will be designated as Selfie Sunday. Everyone is encouraged to bring their phone to worship and take a selfie with their pewmate, the pastor, or whomever, and then post those pics to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or other social media with the hash tags #selfiesunday and #oakchapelumc. This is a simple way to tell others you worship at Oak Chapel United Methodist Church! If you don’t know how to post pictures to social media, the pics can also be texted to April Aten (330-234-1940) or Pastor Robin (330-234-7717) and they will post them to the church’s social media sites for you.
 
Winter Rally Day
It’s just two weeks away! Our Winter Rally Day on Sunday, February 21. The theme of the day is “It’s Snow Fun!” and our worship will center on 1 Corinthians 12:27 where we will explore the uniqueness of snowflakes and their correlation to us.  There will be a few surprises in worship so you won’t want to miss it! Then stick around afterwards for our Fellowship Luncheon with more fun and games.
 
Evening Lenten Worship Services
During Lent we will continue our annual tradition of Sunday evening worship with other United Methodists. This year, all five of the United Methodist Churches in Wooster will participate. The theme is “Finding Home” and offerings will go to Wayne County Habitat for Humanity. The services will be held at 7:00 p.m., except on Sunday, February 21 when Wooster UMC will host Tetelestai. That service will be at 2:00 p.m. The schedule is as follows:
Sunday, February 14 – Oak Chapel UMC with Rev. Tom Fish preaching (John 14)
Sunday, February 21 – Wooster UMC hosting Tetelestai (a Passion Play “It is Finished”) at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 28 – Moreland UMC with Rev. Kris Patt preaching (Joshua 24:15)
Sunday, March 6 – New Pittsburg UMC with Rev. Robin Dillon preaching (Psalm 84)
Sunday, March 13 – Church of the Cross UMC with Rev. Charlie Tobias preaching (Revelation 21)
 
Electronic Sign Update
Over the last two years the Trustees and the Memorials Committee have been working to get a new church sign to enhance our church’s presence on Old Lincoln Way. At their meeting on January 18, the Trustees voted to get the necessary permits, and pending final commitments of memorial funds, the sign will be ordered and the necessary foundation work will begin. Renderings of the sign have been posted on the bulletin boards throughout the church building. Take a look! 
 
Church Communication
Pastor Robin sends a weekly e-mail communication (In a Nutshell) on Fridays. This e-mail distribution is also used to notify the congregation or prayer requests and other special announcements. If you would like to receive regular e-mail communication from the church, please notify us at oakchapelumc@yahoo.com. In addition, on special occasions the church uses an automated phone messaging system (Call Multiplier) to remind the congregation of events or church cancelations. If you would like to receive these automated reminder calls, please notify the church office at oakchapelumc@yahoo.com or 330-264-2537.
 
Church Cancellation Policy
In the event of inclement weather or other emergencies, the decision to cancel worship and/or other church activities will be made by the Administrative Council Chairperson (currently Bob Troutman), the Trustees Chairperson (currently Kim Domer), and the Pastor. The details of the policy are as follows:
·         Decisions regarding cancellation of worship will be made by Sunday morning at 7:00
·         Church will automatically be canceled in the event of a Level 3 Snow Emergency
·         Notifications of cancellation will be communicated via the following methods:
o   Announced on Wooster Radio 104.5 WQKT
o   Church-wide automated phone tree system
o   Church-wide e-mail distribution
o   Notice on the church website
o   Notice on the church Facebook page
o   The church phone voicemail message will indicate if worship is canceled
In circumstances in which the church remains open, parishioners are advised to be cautious and use their own best judgment and discretion regarding church attendance.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 2/7 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                     Worship at 10:30am
                     No Youth Groups or Confirmation Class
Monday, 2/8 – Bible Study at 9:15am
                      No Finance Committee Meeting
                      Administrative Council at 7:00pm – please note change in time.
Tuesday, 2/9 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 2/10 – Ash Wednesday Worship at 7:00pm
Saturday, 2/13 – United Methodist Men – Green Leaf at 7:30am
                      Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | January 22, 2016

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Are you ready for our annual Chili Cook-Off? The men have challenged the women to see who can make the tastiest chili, and that challenge has been accepted! Join us tomorrow night in Fellowship Hall beginning at 5:00. Come taste the entries, vote on your favorites, then enjoy a whole bowl of chili prepared by last year’s winner, Simon Kitchen. Winners will be announced at 7:00. There is also still time to enter the contest. Bring your chili and your $5 entry fee to the church by 4:15 tomorrow. Whether you enter the contest or just taste the samples, it will be a warm night of fun and fellowship. Bring a friend for the festivities!
 
Don’t forget to come back to church on Sunday morning for Sunday School and Worship.  My sermon titled “Jesus’s Mission Statement” is based on Luke 4: 14 – 21. I look forward to sharing this meaningful worship experience with you.
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Children’s Sunday School Assistants
Terra Aten leads the young children’s Sunday School class that meets during worship each Sunday morning. Her assistant this Sunday, 1/24 is Cindy Mykrantz. Her assistant next Sunday, 1/31 is Cathy Shallenberger.
Super Bowl Subs
Our United Methodist Youth Fellowship will once again be selling Super Bowl Subs. The cost is $5.50 per sub and orders must be placed by Sunday, January 31. The subs can be picked up after worship on Sunday, February 7. Order forms can be found in the Narthex of the church.
 
Ash Wednesday Service
Begin the Lenten journey with Ash Wednesday worship on February 10 at 7:00 p.m. This traditional service will include the celebration of Holy Communion and the imposition of ashes.
 
Evening Lenten Worship Services
During Lent we will continue our annual tradition of Sunday evening worship with other United Methodists. This year, all five of the United Methodist Churches in Wooster will participate. The theme is “Finding Home” and offerings will go to Wayne County Habitat for Humanity. The services will be held at 7:00 p.m., except on Sunday, February 21 when Wooster UMC will host Tetelestai. That service will be at 2:00 p.m. The schedule is as follows:
Sunday, February 14 – Oak Chapel UMC with Rev. Tom Fish preaching (John 14)
Sunday, February 21 – Wooster UMC hosting Tetelestai (a Passion Play “It is Finished”) at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 28 – Moreland UMC with Rev. Kris Patt preaching (Joshua 24:15)
Sunday, March 6 – New Pittsburg UMC with Rev. Robin Dillon preaching (Psalm 84)
Sunday, March 13 – Church of the Cross UMC with Rev. Charlie Tobias preaching (Revelation 21)
 
Winter Rally Day
Mark your calendars now for our Winter Rally Day on Sunday, February 21. Our worship service and fellowship luncheon will be centered on the theme “It’s Snow Fun!” You won’t want to miss it. Look for more details in the February Acorn and upcoming bulletins.
 
Church Cancellation Policy
In the event of inclement weather or other emergencies, the decision to cancel worship and/or other church activities will be made by the Administrative Council Chairperson (currently Bob Troutman), the Trustees Chairperson (currently Kim Domer), and the Pastor. The details of the policy are as follows:
·         Decisions regarding cancellation of worship will be made by Sunday morning at 7:00
·         Church will automatically be canceled in the event of a Level 3 Snow Emergency
·         Notifications of cancellation will be communicated via the following methods:
o   Announced on Wooster Radio 104.5 WQKT
o   Church-wide automated phone tree system
o   Church-wide e-mail distribution
o   Notice on the church website
o   Notice on the church Facebook page
o   The church phone voicemail message will indicate if worship is canceled
In circumstances in which the church remains open, parishioners are advised to be cautious and use their own best judgment and discretion regarding church attendance.
 
Women’s Day Apart
Recharge your energy, renew your spirit and ‘Laugh Out Loud’ with comedian and author Anita Renfroe during a day away for women on Saturday, March 12 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the John C. Myers Convocation Center at Ashland University. Renfroe is a comedian and musician who is bodacious in her faith and unashamedly real. She has appeared on Good Morning America and filmed a sitcom pilot, and she’s been featured in The New York Times, Readers Digest, Women’s Day and The Washington Post. The cost is $35 and includes lunch.  If enough interest is shown, Oak Chapel’s women will car pool and attend as a group. (Georgia Taylor says she is definitely going and would welcome company. Contact her for more information.)
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 1/24 – Sunday School at 9:30am
             Worship at 10:30am
Monday, 1/25 – Bible Study at 9:15am
             Prayer Shawl Ministry at 5:30pm
Tuesday, 1/26 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
             Membership Care Committee at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 1/27 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Thursday, 1/28 – Winter Rally Day Planning at 7:00pm
Saturday, 1/30 – Canal District Leadership Training at 8:00am
             Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community! I look forward to worshiping with you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin