In A Nutshell | May 29, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
We all know the Golden Rule: “Treat people in the same way that you want them to treat you” (Luke 6:31, CEB). Whether the issue is equal rights, child welfare, workers’ advocacy or living wages, Peace with Justice Sunday encourages us to practice the Golden Rule, putting our good thoughts into life-changing action.
 
This Sunday during worship we will celebrate Peace with Justice. The students in the Saplings group will offer a prayer for peace that they have written and our worship will focus on the ways in which we can work toward peace and justice. My sermon titled “Welcoming All Parts” is based on 1 Corinthians 12: 12 – 27. I trust you will join us at 10:30 a.m. for this meaningful worship experience.
 
Below you will find 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, 5/31 is Tracy Braucher. Her assistant next Sunday, 6/7 is Carol Gossage.
 
Pastor Robin away
Pastor Robin will be teaching classes on worship and the sacraments to new pastors at Licensing School at Mount Union University next week, leaving after worship this Sunday, 5/31 and returning on Friday evening, June 5. She will have full access to e-mail and will be available for emergencies via cell phone (330-234-7717) during that time.
 
Summer Worship Schedule to begin next week – June 7
At its meeting on Monday, May 11, the Administrative Council affirmed the Worship and Christian Education Committees’ proposal for our summer schedule. Beginning Sunday, June 7, we will have one morning worship service in the Sanctuary at 9:30 a.m., with Sunday School following at 10:30 a.m. This schedule will continue through Labor Day weekend.
 
Brianna Renker’s Graduation Party
The Renker Family invites their church family and friends to celebrate Brianna’s Graduation from Triway High School and the Wayne County Career Center where she studied practical nursing. The party will take place in Oak Chapel’s Fellowship Hall on Saturday, June 13 from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Pastor Robin’s Ordination
Pastor Robin will be ordained during Annual Conference at Lakeside this June. The Service of Commissioning and Ordination will Tuesday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m. in Hoover Auditorium. Everyone is invited to the service and to the party hosted by Robin’s parents immediately following the service at Lakeside United Methodist Church.  The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) would like to get an idea of how many people plan to attend the ordination so that transportation can be coordinated. Please indicate your interest on this week’s attendance slip. The SPRC is also planning a party to be held at Oak Chapel on Sunday, July 5 immediately following Sunday School.
 
Lunch to Honor Arden Boyer
The United Methodist Men have honored Arden Boyer for his service to our country and to Oak Chapel UMC for his organization of our annual Memorial Day services at the Warner-Pioneer Cemetery. The men invite all members of the church to lunch at Jake’s after Sunday School on Sunday, June 7. To make reservations for the luncheon, please indicate your participation on today’s attendance sheet.
  
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 5/31 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Worship – Peace with Justice Sunday at 10:30am
Monday, 6/1 – Retirees Breakfast – Town Market at 8:00am
                                    Bible Study at 10:15am
                                    Art and Soul at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 6/2 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
                                    Welcoming Team Meeting at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 6/3 – Morning Circle at Betty Franks at 9:30am
Saturday, 6/6 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
                                    Kids Day – Downtown Wooster at 12:00pm
                                   
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

In A Nutshell | May 22, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
Memorial Day Weekend is here! We celebrate the end of a school year and graduations. It’s the unofficial start of summer. In our zest to plan cook-outs and parties, thought, we sometimes forget the meaning of this civic holiday. Memorial Day is a day on the civil calendar for remembering and honoring those who have given their lives in battle. The day is also known as Decoration Day for the custom of placing flags at the graves of the patriotic dead. Without legitimizing war, there is a resonance with one of our recent gospel lections: “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
 
I was browsing through the United Methodist Hymnal the other day deciding on hymns for upcoming worship services, and I came across a hymn titled “O God of Every Nation.” It is a prayer that I think is quite appropriate as we consider Memorial Day this weekend.
O God of every nation, of every race and land,
Redeem your whole creation with your almighty hand;
Where hate and fear divide us, and bitter threats are hurled,
In love and mercy guide us, and heal our strife-torn world.
 
From search for wealth and power and scorn of truth and right,
From trust in bombs that shower destruction through the night,
From pride of race and station and blindness to your way,
Deliver every nation, eternal God, we pray.
 
Keep bright in us the vision of days when war shall cease,
When hatred and division give way to love and peace,
Till dawns the morning glorious when truth and justice reign,
And Christ shall rule victorious o’er all the world’s domain.
 
May this be our prayer this Memorial Day weekend and beyond!
 
I trust you will join us for our annual Memorial Day service at the Warner-Pioneer Cemetery this Sunday, May 24 at 9:30 a.m. Then come back up the hill for our Pentecost worship in the Sanctuary at 10:30 a.m. My message “Advocate or Agitator?” is based on Acts 2: 1 – 21 and John 16: 4b – 15. Everyone is encouraged to wear red as a symbol of the power and fire of the Holy Spirit in our midst.
 
Below you will find 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, 5/24 is April Aten. Her assistant next Sunday, 5/31 is Tracy Braucher.
 
Summer Worship Schedule
At its meeting on Monday, May 11, the Administrative Council affirmed the Worship and Christian Education Committees’ proposal for our summer schedule. Beginning Sunday, June 7, we will have one morning worship service in the Sanctuary at 9:30 a.m., with Sunday School following at 10:30 a.m. This schedule will continue through Labor Day weekend.
 
Graduate Recognition Sunday
On Sunday, June 7, we will honor our graduates. If you know of anyone graduating from high school, college, or other post-secondary education, please notify the church office.
 
Lunch to Honor Arden Boyer
The United Methodist Men have honored Arden Boyer for his service to our country and to Oak Chapel UMC for his organization of our annual Memorial Day services at the Warner-Pioneer Cemetery. The men invite all members of the church to lunch at Jake’s after Sunday School on Sunday, June 7. To make reservations for the luncheon, please indicate your participation on this Sunday’s attendance sheet.
Pastor Robin’s Ordination
Pastor Robin will be ordained during Annual Conference at Lakeside this June. The Service of Commissioning and Ordination will Tuesday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m. in Hoover Auditorium. Everyone is invited to the service and to the party hosted by Robin’s parents immediately following the service at Lakeside United Methodist Church.  The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) would like to get an idea of how many people plan to attend the ordination so that transportation can be coordinated. Please indicate your interest on this week’s attendance slip. The SPRC is also planning a party to be held at Oak Chapel on Sunday, July 5 immediately following worship.
  
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 5/24 – Memorial Day Service at Cemetery at 9:30am
                                    Pentecost Worship at 10:30am
Monday, 5/25 – Memorial Day – Office Closed
                                    No Bible Study or Meetings
Tuesday, 5/26 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
                                    Membership Care Committee at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 5/27 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:30pm
Thursday, 5/28 – Christian Education Committee at 7:00pm
Saturday, 5/30 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
                                    Akron Rubber Ducks Game, leave at 5:15pm
 
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

In A Nutshell | May 15, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
Tomorrow is our third annual “Change the World” Day. Together, with other United Methodists around the globe, we will offer our hands in service to make a difference in our community. I trust that you plan to join us. There will be three activities encompassing all skill and ability levels. One group will volunteer at the Humane Society. Another will offer their services at Hilltop Villa. Others will remain at the church to make cards assemble Health Kits and Flood Buckets. We will meet in Fellowship Hall at 8:30 a.m. for a light breakfast and ‘sending forth.’ Groups will return to the church at 11:30 a.m. for a light lunch and to share their experiences. If you agreed to purchase items for the health kits and flood buckets, please bring them to the church tomorrow morning at 8:30 a.m.
 
On Sunday, we with gather again for Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. Our worship will focus on John 17: 6 – 19 with my sermon titled “To Be One.” I look forward to sharing the day with you.
 
Below you will find 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, 5/17 is Miriam Zech. Her assistant next Sunday, 5/24 is April Aten.
 
Akron Rubber Ducks Game
The United Methodist Men are sponsoring a trip to the Akron Rubber Ducks game on Saturday, May 30. The game is at 6:30pm. We will leave the church by 5:15pm. Ticket price is $7.00 and reservations must be made by this Sunday, May 17. Please indicate your interest on the attendance sheet in Sunday’s bulletin or contact Kim Domer at kdomer@sssnet.com or 330-749-3461.
 
Wear Red for Pentecost!
We will celebrate Pentecost next Sunday, May 24 during worship. The congregation is encouraged to wear red that day as a symbol of the power and fire of the Holy Spirit.
 
Memorial Day Service
Oak Chapel will host its annual Memorial Day service at the Warner-Pioneer Cemetery next Sunday, May 24 at 9:30 a.m. We appreciate Arden Boyer’s many dedicated years of service organizing this event in the past and are grateful to Bill Braucher and Stuart Mykrantz for continuing the tradition this year.
Pastor Robin’s Ordination
Pastor Robin will be ordained during Annual Conference at Lakeside this June. The Service of Commissioning and Ordination will Tuesday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m. in Hoover Auditorium. Everyone is invited to the service and to the party hosted by Robin’s parents immediately following the service at Lakeside United Methodist Church.  The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) would like to get an idea of how many people plan to attend the ordination so that transportation can be coordinated. Please indicate your interest on this week’s attendance slip. The SPRC is also planning a party to be held at Oak Chapel on Sunday, July 5 immediately following worship.
 
Summer Worship Schedule
At its meeting on Monday, May 11, the Administrative Council affirmed the Worship and Christian Education Committees’ proposal for our summer schedule. Beginning Sunday, June 7, we will have one morning worship service in the Sanctuary at 9:30 a.m., with Sunday School following at 10:30 a.m. This schedule will continue through Labor Day weekend.
 
Graduate Recognition Sunday
On Sunday, June 7, we will honor our graduates. If you know of anyone graduating from high school, college, or other post-secondary education, please notify the church office.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 5/17 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Worship at 10:30am
                                    Blood pressure screenings after worship
                                    Youth Groups at 6:30pm
Monday, 5/18 – Bible Study at 10:15am
                                    Trustees at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 5/19 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 5/20 – NO Choir rehearsal
Thursday, 5/21 – 4 – H at 7:00pm
Saturday, 5/23 – 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 seeing you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | May 8, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
This Saturday is our Annual All Daughters Banquet. All women of the church are invited. Come and 12 Noon and enjoy a light lunch, a program titled “I Do … Through the Years,” games and other surprises.
 
On Sunday, our worship will focus on John 15: 9 – 17 and 1 John 5: 1 – 6 with my sermon titled “The Best Friend of All.” Hope to see you in worship at 10:30!
 
Below you will find 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, 5/10 is Phyllis Weaver. Her assistant next Sunday, 5/17 is Miriam Zech.
 
Change the World
Along with other United Methodists around the globe, Oak Chapel will participate in Change the World on Saturday, May 16. There will be three activities encompassing all skill and ability levels. One group will volunteer at the Humane Society. Another will offer their services at Hilltop Villa. Others will remain at the church to assemble Health Kits and Flood Buckets. If you cannot attend that day you can still help by donating items for the Health Kits and Flood Buckets. Check out the board in the Narthex listing items that are needed for this. We will meet in Fellowship Hall at 8:30 a.m. for a light breakfast and ‘sending forth.’ Groups will return to the church at 11:30 a.m. for a light lunch and to share their experiences.
 
Memorial Day Service
Oak Chapel will host its annual Memorial Day service at the Warner-Pioneer Cemetery on Sunday, May 24 at 9:30 a.m. We appreciate Arden Boyer’s many dedicated years of service organizing this event in the past and are grateful to Bill Braucher and Stuart Mykrantz for continuing the tradition this year.
 
Summer Worship Schedule
In conjunction with the Christian Education Committee, the Worship Committee has been prayerfully considering our summer worship options. After much prayer and discernment, the committee has developed a proposal to be presented, discussed and acted upon at the next Administrative Council meeting on Monday, May 11 at 7:00 p.m. The proposal calls for one worship service in the sanctuary at 9:30 a.m., followed by Sunday School at 10:30 a.m. Once approved, the start date for our summer schedule will then be determined. Should you have any questions, please contact Pastor Robin. Also, as a reminder, interested church members may come to any scheduled church council or committee meetings (except Staff-Parish where personnel matters are discussed) to hear about the workings of the church or to ask questions.
 
Akron Rubber Ducks Game
Save the Date! The United Methodist Men will sponsor a trip to the Akron Rubber Ducks game on Saturday, May 30. The game is at 6:30pm. We will leave the church by 5:15pm. Ticket price is $7.00 and reservations must be made by Sunday, May 17. Please indicate your interest on this week’s attendance sheet.
 
Pastor Robin’s Ordination
Pastor Robin will be ordained during Annual Conference at Lakeside this June. The Service of Commissioning and Ordination will Tuesday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m. in Hoover Auditorium. Everyone is invited to the service and to the party hosted by Robin’s parents immediately following the service at Lakeside United Methodist Church.  The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) would like to get an idea of how many people plan to attend the ordination so that transportation can be coordinated. Please indicate your interest on this week’s attendance slip. The SPRC is also planning a party to be held at Oak Chapel on Sunday, July 5 immediately following worship.
 
Friends Together
The Membership Care Committee is considering organizing Friends Together groups. These groups of six people would meet for dinner, discussion and devotion. These sessions can be hosted in homes or the group can go out to eat. If you would like to participate in this program, please indicate your interest on today’s attendance sheet.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 5/10 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Worship at 10:30am
Monday, 5/11 – Bible Study at 10:15am
                                    VBS Planning Meeting at 6:00pm
                                    Administrative Council at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 5/12 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
                                    Outreach Committee at 6:30pm
Wednesday, 5/13 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:30pm
Saturday, 5/16 – Change the World at 8:30am
                                    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 seeing you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | May 1, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
What a wonderful sun-shiny day! I trust you will take advantage of the opportunity to take in the beauty of God’s creation this weekend.
 
Join us for worship on Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. My message titled “Abide in Love” is based on John 15: 1 – 8. As it is the first Sunday of the month, we will also celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion. Don’t forget your canned goods and other food items for People to People ministries.
 
Below you will find announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Church Work Day
Don’t forget our final church work day tomorrow – Saturday, May 2. At 9:00 a.m., we will gather again to spread mulch around the new plants and other areas around the building. Many hands make light work. God has entrusted us with a beautiful facility and we want to be good stewards of it. 
 
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, 5/3 is Evelyn Silver. Her assistant next Sunday, 5/10 is Phyllis Weaver.
 
All Daughters Brunch – Saturday, May 9 at Noon
Calling all women of the church! Bring your mothers, sisters, daughters and friends! Our Annual All Daughters gathering is just around the corner. The theme is “I do…Through the years.” A light lunch will be served and a freewill offering taken. Please bring a wedding picture, memorabilia or story to share. There will be games and other surprises. You won’t want to miss this time of fun and fellowship. If you are willing to lend dresses or other wedding items to the church for this occasion, please contact Phyllis Weaver at 330-264-0875 or phylbyw@gmail.com.
 
Summer Worship Schedule
In conjunction with the Christian Education Committee, the Worship Committee has been prayerfully considering our summer worship options. After much prayer and discernment, the committee has developed a proposal to be presented, discussed and acted upon at the next Administrative Council meeting on Monday, May 11 at 7:00 p.m. The proposal calls for one worship service in the sanctuary at 9:30 a.m., followed by Sunday School at 10:30 a.m. Once approved, the start date for our summer schedule will then be determined. Should you have any questions, please contact Pastor Robin. Also, as a reminder, interested church members may come to any scheduled church council or committee meetings (except Staff-Parish where personnel matters are discussed) to hear about the workings of the church or to ask questions.
  
Change the World
Along with other United Methodists around the globe, Oak Chapel will participate in Change the World on Saturday, May 16. There will be three activities encompassing all skill and ability levels. We will once again send a group to volunteer at the Humane Society. Another group will offer their services to help at Hilltop Villa. For those who wish to remain at the church we will have Health Kits and Flood Buckets to be assembled. If you cannot attend that day you can still help by donating items for the Health Kits and Flood Buckets. Check out the board in the Narthex listing items that are needed for this. We will meet in Fellowship Hall at 8:30 a.m. for a light breakfast and ‘sending forth.’ Groups will return to the church at 11:30 a.m. for a light lunch and to share their experiences.
 
Pastor Robin’s Ordination
Pastor Robin will be ordained during Annual Conference at Lakeside this June. The Service of Commissioning and Ordination will Tuesday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m. in Hoover Auditorium. Everyone is invited to the service and to the party hosted by Robin’s parents immediately following the service at Lakeside United Methodist Church.  The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) would like to get an idea of how many people plan to attend the ordination so that transportation can be coordinated. Please indicate your interest on this week’s attendance slip. The SPRC is also planning a party to be held at Oak Chapel on Sunday, July 5 immediately following worship.
 
Friends Together
The Membership Care Committee is considering organizing Friends Together groups. These groups of six people would meet for dinner, discussion and devotion. These sessions can be hosted in homes or the group can go out to eat. If you would like to participate in this program, please indicate your interest on this Sunday’s attendance sheet in the bulletin.
 
Akron Rubber Ducks Game
Save the Date! The United Methodist Men will sponsor a trip to the Akron Rubber Ducks game on Saturday, May 30. The game is at 6:30pm. We will leave the church by 5:15pm. More details soon.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 5/3 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Worship at 10:30am
                                    Youth Groups at 6:30pm
Monday, 5/4 – Retirees Breakfast – Town Market at 8:00am
                                    Bible Study at 10:15am
                                    Art and Soul at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 5/5 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 5/6 – Morning Circle at Betty Franks’ at 9:30am
                                    Choir Rehearsal at 7:30pm
Thursday, 5/7 – 4 – H at 7:00pm
Saturday, 5/9 – United Methodist Men – Green Leaf at 7:30am
                                    Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
                                    All Daughters Brunch at 12:00pm
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

In A Nutshell | April 24, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
 
This Sunday is our Annual Compass Group Pulpit Exchange. I will be preaching at Smithville UMC at 8:30 and 10:45. The Rev. Chuck Kaliszewski from Rittman UMC will preach at Oak Chapel at 10:30. His message titled “Action and Truth” is based on 1 John 3: 16 – 24. You will not want to miss this service for two reasons: Chuck is a great preacher and Mark Ritchey will be the musician. Mark will provide all the music for this Sunday’s worship including accompanying the hymns. You will surely be blessed!
 
Below you will find announcements and important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Church Work Days
Don’t forget our church work day tomorrow – Saturday, April 25. At 9:00 a.m., we will gather to plant new shrubs on the north side of the building. Then next Saturday, May 2, we will gather again to spread mulch around the new plants and other areas around the building. Many hands make light work. Please join us at 9:00 a.m. on either or both of these days. God has entrusted us with a beautiful facility and we want to be good stewards of it. 
 
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, 4/26 is Cathy Shallenberger. Her assistant next Sunday, 5/3 is Evelyn Silver.
 
Spring District Conference
Our Annual Spring District Conference will be held at Wadsworth UMC this Sunday, April 26 from 3:00 – 4:30pm. At this meeting we worship, hear about ministries at various churches on our district and elect district delegates to our annual conference session for 2016. All church members are invited to attend.
 
Church Women United May Friendship Dinner
The CWU May Friendship Dinner will be held Friday, May 1 at 6:00 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church. There will be a carpool from Oak Chapel at 5:30 p.m. The speaker is Mark Welty, Ph. D. He is the Central Regional Director of The Village Network. Tickets cost $7.50. There will be an ingathering of paper products for The Village Network. Please see Joanne Jolliff by Sunday, April 26 to get your ticket.
 
All Daughters Brunch – Saturday, May 9 at Noon
Calling all women of the church! Bring your mothers, sisters, daughters and friends! Our Annual All Daughters gathering is just around the corner. The theme is “I do…Through the years.” A light lunch will be served and a freewill offering taken. Please bring a wedding picture, memorabilia or story to share. There will be games and other surprises. You won’t want to miss this time of fun and fellowship. If you are willing to lend dresses or other wedding items to the church for this occasion, please contact Phyllis Weaver at 330-264-0875 or phylbyw@gmail.com.
 
Change the World
Along with other United Methodists around the globe, Oak Chapel will participate in Change the World on Saturday, May 16. There will be three activities encompassing all skill and ability levels. We will once again send a group to volunteer at the Humane Society. Another group will offer their services to help at Hilltop Villa. For those who wish to remain at the church we will have Health Kits and Flood Buckets to be assembled. If you cannot attend that day you can still help by donating items for the Health Kits and Flood Buckets. Check out the board in the Narthex listing items that are needed for this. We will meet in Fellowship Hall at 8:30 a.m. for a light breakfast and ‘sending forth.’ Groups will return to the church at 11:30 a.m. for a light lunch and to share their experiences.
 
Friends Together
The Membership Care Committee is considering organizing Friends Together groups. These groups of six people would meet for dinner, discussion and devotion. These sessions can be hosted in homes or the group can go out to eat. If you would like to participate in this program, please indicate your interest on this Sunday’s attendance sheet in the bulletin.
 
Akron Rubber Ducks Game
Save the Date! The United Methodist Men will sponsor a trip to the Akron Rubber Ducks game on Saturday, May 30. The game is at 6:30pm. We will leave the church by 5:15pm. More details soon.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 4/26 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Worship at 10:30am
                                    District Conference – Wadsworth at 3:00pm
Monday, 4/27 – Bible Study at 10:15am
                                    Prayer Shawl Ministry at 5:30pm
                                    Staff-Parish Relations Committee at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 4/28 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 4/29 – NO Choir rehearsal                                              
Friday, 5/1 – Church Women United Dinner at St. James Episcopal carpool at 5:30pm
Saturday, 5/2 – Work Day at 9:00am
                                    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 seeing you in church next Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | April 17, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
Exciting things are happening at Oak Chapel! Several of the Trustees have been working hard this week in preparation for our upcoming church work days. Come tomorrow morning at 9:00 to help with general clean up – cleaning windows, picking up sticks, raking, etc. When you come to church you will notice that the ramp railings and the fence around the playground have been sanded and painted. Special thanks to Brad Kitchen for taking on this project!
 
Join us on Sunday morning for Sunday School and Worship. This week’s worship will be led by the United Methodist Women and will include mission speaker Mariellyn Grace. Come hear how God is at work through missions.
 
Below you will find 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 is Carol Gossage. Her assistant next Sunday, 4/26 is Cathy Shallenberger.
 
Church Work Days
Don’t forget our church work day tomorrow – Saturday, April 18. At 9:00 a.m., we will gather to do some general clean up of the church buildings and grounds including cleaning windows, picking up sticks and raking. Next Saturday, April 25, we will gather to plant new shrubs on the north side of the building. Then on May 2, we will gather again to spread mulch around the new plants and other areas around the building. Many hands make light work. Please join us at 9:00 a.m. on any or all of these days. God has entrusted us with a beautiful facility and we want to be good stewards of it. 
 
Spring District Conference
Our Annual Spring District Conference will be held at Wadsworth UMC on Sunday, April 26 from 3:00 – 4:30pm. At this meeting we worship, hear about ministries at various churches on our district and elect district delegates to our annual conference session for 2016. All church members are invited to attend.
 
Church Women United May Friendship Dinner
The CWU May Friendship Dinner will be held Friday, May 1 at 6:00 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church. There will be a carpool from Oak Chapel at 5:30 p.m. The speaker is Mark Welty, Ph. D. He is the Central Regional Director of The Village Network. Tickets cost $7.50. There will be an ingathering of paper products for The Village Network. Please see Joanne Jolliff by Sunday, April 26 to get your ticket.
 
Compass Group Pulpit Exchange
The clergy in our compass group will participate in a pulpit exchange on Sunday, April 26. Rev. Chuck Kaliszewski from Rittman UMC will preach at Oak Chapel. Pastor Robin will preach at Smithville UMC that day.
 
New LED Lights in Office / Education Wing
On Wednesday, April 8, Black Electric temporarily installed the sanctuary LED linear lamps in the office and hallway outside of the office. The outer office now has three (3) 4-lamp fixtures that have two LED linear lamps and one (1) 4-lamp fixture that has four LED linear lamps. The pastor’s office now has one (1) 4-lamp fixture that has two LED linear lamps. The 2-lamp hallway fixture outside of the office now has two LED linear lamps and the next fixture down the hall has one LED linear lamp. Our initial evaluation is that all 4-lamp fixtures should be retrofitted with two LED linear lamps, the hallway fixtures should be retrofitted with one LED linear lamp, and all stairwell 2-lamp fixtures should be retrofitted with two LED linear lamps. We believe the fixture with four LED linear lamps is too bright; however, we would like feedback from the church staff and congregation about the brightness. We need to make a decision in about two weeks. The congregation can talk to either Kim Domer or Stuart Mykrantz after church or leave a message in their mailboxes in the church office.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 4/19 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    UMW Sunday Worship at 10:30am
                                    Blood Pressure screenings after worship
                                    Youth Groups at 6:30pm
Monday, 4/20 – Bible Study at 10:15am
                                    Trustees at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 4/21 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 4/22 – NO Choir Rehearsal                                           
Thursday, 4/23 – 4 – H at 7:00pm
Saturday, 4/25 – UMW Spring Gathering – Mogadore at 8:30am
                                    Work Day at 9:00am
                                    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 seeing you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | April 10, 2015

Good morning, friends,
This Sunday is Holy Humor Sunday. My message “Peace and Joy to You” is based on John 20: 19 – 31. Come with a joke or two to share and join in the joy and laughter, celebrating God’s love for us. Jesus laughed and we should, too!
Join us after worship for our United Methodist Women’s Unit meeting. Bring a sack lunch. Beverage will be provided. The program will be “Going out to Welcome.”

In A Nutshell | April 3, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
Today is a day that we Christians have come to term as “Good Friday.” The historical events of the day we commemorate, though, were hardly anything but “good” – the brutal beating and crucifixion of an innocent man, one who came to espouse justice, mercy, compassion and love. Tonight at 7:00 the combined choirs of the Church of the Cross, Moreland, Oak Chapel and Wooster United Methodist Churches will present the Good Friday Cantata “The Shadow of the Cross.” This service of darkness will give us a glimpse of the events of that day. I hope you will come for this meaningful music presentation.
 
Jesus died a horrible death on that Good Friday, yet death did not have the final word. God took the pain and brokenness of that day and transformed it into something good. From the darkness of that day, God brought forth light and life in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We know the end of the story and while we celebrate that “end” every Sunday, this Sunday – Easter – gives us an opportunity to truly celebrate. We will begin the day at 8:00 a.m. with an Early/Sunrise service hosted by the youth, followed by breakfast in Fellowship Hall at 8:45 a.m. hosted by the Sing-Mar class. Our 10:30 Resurrection Celebration will include Holy Communion and special music by Mark Ritchey. My sermon titled “Giving Up Death” is based on John 20: 1 – 18.
 
I look forward to worshiping with you. Also, don’t forget our Easter Egg Hunt tomorrow morning at 10:00. See details below with 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, 4/5 is Pam Domer. Her assistant next Sunday, 4/12 is Cindy Mykrantz.
Easter Egg Hunt
Oak Chapel’s annual community Easter Egg Hunt is planned for Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 a.m. this year. The event will feature pictures with the Easter Bunny, an Easter Egg Hunt and games and activities. Please share this upcoming event with your friends and neighbors.   
 
Pastor Away
Pastor Robin’s father, Bob Dillon, is scheduled for spine surgery on Monday, April 6. Pastor Robin will be traveling to be with her family for the surgery. She will leave Easter Sunday afternoon, April 5 and will return on Saturday, April 11. During her absence, Rev. Tom Fish of Moreland UMC will cover for pastoral emergencies. Rev. Fish can be reached at 330-262-2522 or 330-720-5991.
 
Holy Humor Sunday
On Sunday, April 12, 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!
 
Church Work Days
The Trustees invite all members of the church to participate in a series of Saturday Work Days this Spring. On April 18 we will gather to do some general clean up of the church buildings and grounds including cleaning windows, picking up sticks and raking. On April 25, we will gather to plant new shrubs on the north side of the building. Then on May 2, we will gather again to spread mulch around the new plants and other areas around the building. Many hands make light work. Please join us at 9:00 a.m. on any or all of these days. God has entrusted us with a beautiful facility and we want to be good stewards of it. 
 
Spring District Conference
Our Annual Spring District Conference will be held at Wadsworth UMC on Sunday, April 26 from 3:00 – 4:30pm. At this meeting we worship, hear about ministries at various churches on our district and elect district delegates to our annual conference session for 2016. All church members are invited to attend.
 
Compass Group Pulpit Exchange
The clergy in our compass group will participate in a pulpit exchange on Sunday, April 26. Rev. Chuck Kaliszewski from Rittman UMC will preach at Oak Chapel. Pastor Robin will preach at Smithville UMC that day.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 4/5 – Early/Sunrise Worship at 8:00am
                                    Breakfast at 8:45am
                                    Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Easter Resurrection Worship at 10:30am
Monday, 4/6 – Retirees Breakfast – Towne Market at 8:00am
                                    Bible Study at 10:15am
                                    Emergency Trustees Meeting at 7:00pm
                                    Art and Soul at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 4/7 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
                                    Membership Care Committee at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 4/8 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Thursday, 4/9 – 4 – H at 7:00pm
Saturday, 4/11 – United Methodist Men – Green Leaf at 7:30pm
                                    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 seeing you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | March 27, 2015

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
            Holy Week is upon us. Holy Week is the busiest week on the church calendar with many services of remembrance of Jesus’ journey to the cross. Holy Week begins with 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. So I encourage you to participate in our Holy Week services – Maundy Thursday and the Good Friday cantata. Sit in the darkness of Jesus’ death for then, and only then, can we experience the joy of resurrection.
            And when Easter day comes, may you know and feel both the hope and joy that is found in Jesus Christ!
            This Sunday as we celebrate Palm Sunday, my sermon is titled “Giving Up Popularity” based on Matthew 21: 1 – 10. I look forward to worshiping with you.
 
Below you will find 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, 3/29 is Joanne Jolliff. Her assistant next Sunday, 4/5 is Pam Domer.
 
Easter Sunday Worship
Join us for our early (Sunrise?) service at 8:00 a.m. This service will be led by our youth groups. Following this service, the Sing-Mar class 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
Oak Chapel’s annual community Easter Egg Hunt is planned for Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 a.m. this year. The event will feature pictures with the Easter Bunny, an Easter Egg Hunt and games and activities. Please share this upcoming event with your friends and neighbors.   
 
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, April 2 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 “The Shadow of the Cross” on Friday, April 3 at 7:00 p.m. at Oak Chapel. This Tenebrae service will include music, readings, and the extinguishing of candles. Invite your friends and neighbors for this meditative and moving service.
 
Pastor Away
Pastor Robin’s father, Bob Dillon, is scheduled for spine surgery on Monday, April 6. Pastor Robin will be traveling to be with her family for the surgery. She will leave Easter Sunday afternoon, April 5 and will return on Saturday, April 11. During her absence, Rev. Tom Fish of Moreland UMC will cover for pastoral emergencies. Rev. Fish can be reached at 330-262-2522 or 330-720-5991.
 
Holy Humor Sunday
On Sunday, April 12, 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!
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 3/29 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Palm Sunday Worship at 10:30am
Monday, 3/30 – Bible Study at 10:15am
                                    VBS Planning Meeting at 6:00pm
Tuesday, 3/31 – Girl Scouts at 5:45pm
Wednesday, 4/1 – Morning Circle at Betty Franks’ at 9:30am
                                    Choir Rehearsal at 7:00pm
Thursday, 4/2 – Maundy Thursday Worship at 7:00pm
Friday, 4/3 – Good Friday Cantata at 7:00pm
Saturday, 4/4 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
                                    Easter Egg Hunt at 10:00am
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