In A Nutshell | July 19, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
We had a great time at the Akron Aeros game on Tuesday night! Though it was quite hot and the Aeros lost, the fireworks were fantastic and everyone had fun. I am looking forward to more events like this. Special thanks to Bill Braucher and Rev. Jim Pfander for organizing the event.
 
This Sunday’s worship services will center on Luke 10: 38 – 42. I hope to offer some new insights on this familiar story of Mary and Martha in my message titled “Which One Will You Choose?” Join us early for the Heritage service at 8:30am or after Sunday School at the Celebration Service at 10:30am in Fellowship Hall.
 
I also encourage you to join us for the combined adult summer Sunday School class in our air-conditioned Sing Mar Room at 9:30am. We have been studying Philip Yancey’s What’s So Amazing About Grace? This week’s session, “An Unnatural Act,” focuses on forgiveness. In my preparation for Sunday, I have been challenged by this lesson and I anticipate fruitful discussion. Please consider adding your voice to the conversation.
 
Block Party
This Sunday, July 21 from 4:00 – 7:00pm, we will have a church block party on the parsonage lawn. This event is a closing celebration for our Vacation Bible School participants, but everyone is invited. There will be games, service projects, crafts and traditional block party fare. Invite your friends and neighbors and come join the fun! Bring a lawn chair and a smile. J
 
One day VBS with Mountain Vision
On Saturday, August 3, a group will travel to Jacobsburg, OH to do a one-day VBS with Mountain Vision. We will do activities with the children, feed them lunch and hand out school supplies. We’d love to have you join us! Please see Ann Kahrig for more information. You can also sign up on Sunday morning via the attendance slips in the bulletin.
 
Buy Way Sale
The Lincoln Buy Way Sale is August 8, 9 and 10. We will offer tables for $10 each to individuals to sell their own things, plus have a few tables from which proceeds will go to our Oak Chapel UMC Youth Fund. If you have items to donate to the youth table, please bring them Wednesday, 8/7. We need some helping hands that evening for set up, as well as cooking and serving hot dogs and other yummy food on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Please see Elizabeth Feldman for more information or you may sign up to help via the attendance slip in the bulletin this Sunday.
 
What Does It Mean to Be United Methodist?
Pastor Robin and Pam Domer will lead a one-day class on United Methodism on Saturday, August 24 from 9am – 2pm. This session will include a brief history of the church, our core beliefs, and helpful information about our church structure. Those interested in joining Oak Chapel UMC are especially invited to attend. And even if you have been a member of Oak Chapel or a United Methodist your whole life, this class will challenge you to live out our Wesleyan heritage. You won’t want to miss it! A light lunch will be provided and the day will end with the celebration of Holy Communion.
 
Study Opportunities Survey
Our Administrative Council recently completed the “Catch” Study. As we seek to become a more outwardly focused congregation, we would like to offer more opportunities for individual growth and renewal among our members. Please take a moment to complete this brief online survey to indicate your interest in such classes. We appreciate your time.
 
Mission Team
From August 4 – 9, Pete and Natalie Bunt, Kim and Pam Domer, and Pastor Robin will join with members of other churches in our Compass Group on a mission trip to Ocean, NJ to do relief / rebuild work necessary after Superstorm Sandy last Fall. The cost for each person is $325. Contributions to offset the cost of the trip would be appreciated. If you would like to support their work, please place your gift in the offering plate, noting its purpose.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 7/21 – Heritage Worship Service at 8:30am
                   Sunday School at 9:30am
                   Celebration Worship Service at 10:30am
                   Blood Pressure Screenings after worship
                   Block Party on parsonage lawn from 4 – 7:00pm
Monday, 7/22 – Prayer Shawl Ministry at 5:30pm
                   Administrative Council at 7:00pm
Thursday, 7/25 – 4 – H at 7:00pm
                    Christian Education Committee at 7:00pm
                   Worship Committee          at 8:00pm
Saturday, 7/27 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
 
Grace and peace,
 
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | July 12, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Thanks to all who attended the fellowship luncheon and celebration of my commissioning last Sunday after worship. Your presence was meaningful and the plaque and monetary gift are very much appreciated. I’m grateful for the support of Oak Chapel UMC on my journey to ordained ministry!
 
Last Sunday was also the first day of our summer worship schedule. I was quite pleased with the turn-out and look forward to all that God has in store for us as we worship together this summer. This Sunday we will have a special treat at the Heritage service in the Sanctuary at 8:30am. Mark Ritchey is offering his musical gift and will accompany our hymns. Our Celebration service at 10:30am in Fellowship Hall will offer praise music and other multi-media. The sermon at both services, based on Luke 10: 25 – 37, is titled “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.”
 
Work/Clean-up Day at the Parsonage – TOMORROW!
During Wednesday’s storm one of the trees in the parsonage yard fell. Fortunately, there was no damage to the house. Some preliminary clean-up has been done, but the Trustees (and Pastor Robin!) would appreciate some additional help tomorrow. Specifically, we need to clean up more debris and haul away the wood that is cut. Join us tomorrow, Saturday, July 13, at 10am. Many hands make light work. With enough people, we should be able to get it all done in about an hour. Thanks for your consideration of this.
 
Study Opportunities Survey
Our Administrative Council recently completed the “Catch” Study. As we seek to become a more outwardly focused congregation, we would like to offer more opportunities for individual growth and renewal among our members. Please take a moment to complete this brief online survey to indicate your interest in such classes. We appreciate your time.
 
Mission Team
From August 4 – 9, Pete and Natalie Bunt, Kim and Pam Domer, and Pastor Robin will join with members of other churches in our Compass Group on a mission trip to Ocean, NJ to do relief / rebuild work necessary after Superstorm Sandy last Fall. The cost for each person is $325. Contributions to offset the cost of the trip would be appreciated. If you would like to support their work, please place your gift in the offering plate, noting its purpose.
 
Summer Combined Adult Sunday School
Pastor Robin is leading the combined Adult Sunday School class this summer through Sunday, September 8. Meeting in the air-conditioned Sing-Mar Room, this group is studying Philip Yancey’s What’s So Amazing about Grace? Through ten powerful video-bases sessions that will rock our preconceptions, we will discover together why grace is more amazing than we ever dreamed. All are welcome, even if you missed the first session last week.
 
Oak Chapel Night at the Akron Aeros
On Tuesday, July 16th the United Methodist Men are sponsoring a visit to Canal Park to see an Akron Aeros game.  Please sign up by indicating your reservation on the attendance registration slips in the bulletin on Sunday or by calling the church office (330-264-2537).  The cost is $7.00 which includes nine innings of baseball as well as a rare Tuesday night Fireworks Display.  Please be in the church parking lot by 5:35 to leave promptly by 5:45 PM.  We will carpool as much as possible.  Anyone needing a ride to or from the church can make arrangements with Bill Braucher (330-201-1353).   All are welcome.  Please bring friends and neighbors. This is an excellent opportunity to invite someone to an Oak Chapel UMC experience!
 
Looking Ahead to Buy Way Sale
Once again we will gather under the ‘ole oak tree for the Lincoln Buy Way Sale on August 8, 9 and 10. We will offer tables for $10 each to individuals to sell their own things, plus have one or two tables from which proceeds will go to Oak Chapel. We will need some helping hands to set up on Wednesday evening, as well as cooking and serving hot dogs and other yummy food. Contact Elizabeth Feldman.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 7/14 – Heritage Worship Service at 8:30am
                   Sunday School at 9:30am
                   Celebration Worship Service at 10:30am
Monday, 7/15 – Trustees at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 7/16 – Oak Chapel Night at Akron Aeros at 5:45pm
Friday, 7/19 – United Methodist Women at Mission U –
                   University of Mount Union, Alliance, OH
Saturday, 7/20 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
Sunday, 7/21 – Heritage Worship Service at 8:30am
                   Sunday School at 9:30am
                   Celebration Worship Service at 10:30am
                   Blood Pressure Screenings after the 10:30am service
 
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
 
Grace and peace,
 
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | July 5, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
I trust that each of you had a good Fourth of July, celebrating our nation’s birthday and the freedoms we have in our country. No matter what one’s nationality, though, true freedom is found in Jesus Christ and I pray that you are able to spend some time reflecting on that this weekend.
 
This Sunday begins our new Summer worship schedule. The Heritage Service, with traditional worship elements, is at 8:30am in the Sanctuary. The Celebration Service, using our multi-media system, is at 10:30am in our air-conditioned Fellowship Hall. I’m excited that I can now devote myself fully to Oak Chapel on Sunday mornings. I’m looking forward to both worship services and I trust that you will be a part of one (or maybe both!) of them this Sunday. I will also be leading the combined adult Sunday School class at 9:30. Come experience God in fresh and new ways at Oak Chapel UMC!
 
Summer Combined Adult Sunday School
Pastor Robin will lead the combined Adult Sunday School class this summer from July 7 – September 8. Meeting in the air-conditioned Sing-Mar Room, this group will study Philip Yancey’s What’s So Amazing about Grace? Through ten powerful video-bases sessions that will rock our preconceptions, we will discover together why grace is more amazing than we ever dreamed.
 
Celebration of Pastor Robin’s Commissioning
There will be a celebration of Pastor Robin’s Commissioning this Sunday, July 7 following the 10:30am worship service. Please bring a dish to share as we commemorate this special milestone in Pastor Robin’s ministry. For more information, please contact Betsy Bower, Staff-Parish Relations Committee Chairperson.
 
Oak Chapel Night at the Akron Aeros
On Tuesday, July 16th the United Methodist Men are sponsoring a visit to Canal Park to see an Akron Aeros game.  Please sign up by indicating your reservation on the attendance registration slips in the bulletin on Sunday or by calling the church office (330-264-2537).  The cost is $7.00 which includes nine innings of baseball as well as a rare Tuesday night Fireworks Display.  Please be in the church parking lot by 5:35 to leave promptly by 5:45 PM.  We will carpool as much as possible.  Anyone needing a ride to or from the church can make arrangements with Bill Braucher (330-201-1353).   All are welcome.  Please bring friends and neighbors. This is an excellent opportunity to invite someone to an Oak Chapel UMC experience!
 
Mission Team
From August 4 – 9, Pete and Natalie Bunt, Kim and Pam Domer, and Pastor Robin will join with members of other churches in our Compass Group on a mission trip to Ocean, NJ to do relief / rebuild work necessary after Superstorm Sandy last Fall. The cost for each person is $325. Contributions to offset the cost of the trip would be appreciated. If you would like to support their work, please place your gift in the offering plate, noting its purpose.
 
Looking Ahead to Buy Way Sale
Once again we will gather under the ‘ole oak tree for the Lincoln Buy Way Sale on August 8, 9 and 10. We will offer tables for $10 each to individuals to sell their own things, plus have one or two tables from which proceeds will go to Oak Chapel. We will need some helping hands to set up on Wednesday evening, as well as cooking and serving hot dogs and other yummy food. Contact Elizabeth Feldman.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 7/7 – Heritage Worship Service at 8:30am
                             Sunday School at 9:30am
                             Celebration Worship Service at 10:30am
                             Fellowship Meal after 10:30am service
Tuesday, 7/9 – Outreach Committee at 10:30am
Thursday, 7/11 – 4 – H at 7:00pm
Saturday, 7/13 – 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. See you in church!!
 
Grace and peace,
 
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | June 28, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
We’ve had a wonderful time at Vacation Bible School this week! Children of all ages have learned about God’s love and ways we can be in service to our family, friends, neighbors and community. It’s not too late to get in on the fun. You may join us tonight for our final session beginning with a family supper at 5:30. The VBS program runs from 6:00 to 8:30.
Please be in prayer for the Bethel UMC congregation this weekend. We will celebrate their 161 years of ministry at their closing worship on Sunday morning. This is a challenging time and the members there appreciate your prayers during this time of grief and transition.
Our resident Deaconess and Director of Education and Outreach, Pam Domer, will bring the Word at Oak Chapel this Sunday. Her message, titled “Missed Opportunities,” is based on Luke 9: 51 – 62. We look forward to your presence.
Summer Worship
Beginning next Sunday, July 7, we will have two worship services on Sunday mornings. Our Heritage worship service, held in the Sanctuary at 8:30am, is ideal for those who wish to get an early start on the day or prefer traditional hymns and liturgies. The Celebration service, held in our air-conditioned Fellowship Hall at 10:30am, will feature lively praise music and will make use of our multi-media system. We are very excited about these new opportunities and hope you will invite your friends and neighbors to participate with us.
Celebration of Pastor Robin’s Commissioning
There will be a celebration of Pastor Robin’s Commissioning next Sunday, July 7 following the 10:30am worship service. Please bring a dish to share as we commemorate this special milestone in Pastor Robin’s ministry. For more information, please contact Betsy Bower, Staff-Parish Relations Committee Chairperson.
Summer Combined Adult Sunday School
Pastor Robin will lead the combined Adult Sunday School class this summer from July 7– September 8. Meeting in the air-conditioned Sing-Mar Room, this group will study Philip Yancey’s What’s So Amazing about Grace? Through ten powerful video-bases sessions that will rock our preconceptions, we will discover together why grace is more amazing than we ever dreamed.
Oak Chapel Night at the Akron Aeros
On Tuesday, July 16th, the United Methodist Men are sponsoring a visit to Canal Park to see an Akron Aeros game. Please sign up on the sheet in the narthex or call the church office to make a reservation.  The cost is $7.00 which includes nine innings of baseball as well as a rare Tuesday night Fireworks Display.  Please be in the church parking lot by 5:35 to leave promptly by 5:45 PM.  We will carpool as much as possible.  Anyone needing a ride to or from the church can make arrangements with Bill Braucher. All are welcome.  This is an excellent opportunity to invite someone to an Oak Chapel UMC experience!
Prayer Partners
Pastor Robin is looking for people who will partner with her and commit to daily prayer for our community, our church, its present and future ministries, our church staff, and her as your pastor.  She is also looking for people willing to pray over the pews in the sanctuary and the chairs of the Fellowship Hall each Sunday morning before our worship services. Please call or e-mail her to express your interest and commitment to these endeavors.
Looking Ahead to Buy Way Sale
Once again we will gather under the ‘ole oak tree for the Lincoln Buy Way Sale on August 8, 9 and 10. We will offer tables for $10 each to individuals to sell their own things, plus have one or two tables from which proceeds will go to Oak Chapel. We will need some helping hands to set up on Wednesday evening, as well as cooking and serving hot dogs and other yummy food. Contact Elizabeth Feldman.
Next week’s calendar …
Sunday, 6/30 – United Methodist Women Unit Meeting at 11:45am
Monday, 7/1 – Retirees Breakfast – Milltown at 8:00am
                             Bible Study at 10:15am
Wednesday, 7/3 – Morning Circle at Betty Franks’ at 9:30am
Saturday, 7/6 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | June 21, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
We had a wonderful week of holy conferencing at Lakeside. I am now home and excited to begin my third year of ministry among you. Many thanks to those who traveled to Lakeside on Tuesday night for the Service of Commissioning and Ordination. I am grateful for your presence and support.
This Sunday during worship two of our youth will share their experiences from Youth Annual Conference last weekend. Please come to support them and hear the great things God is doing in their lives. My meditation is titled “When Love Came to Town” based on Luke 8: 26 – 39.
Vacation Bible School
Vacation Bible School is next week! And we are getting excited! Join us for the backyard adventure on Monday through Friday evenings beginning with a family supper at 5:30pm.  VBS will run from 6: 00 – 8:30pm and will include fun outdoor games, crafts, snacks and music. Grab your friends and come on over! There will be classes for all ages. Pastor Robin is teaching the adult class and she just might do some backyard science experiments! Register online via the church website at www.oakchapelumc.comor call the church office at 330-264-2537. You won’t want to miss it!
Also, just a reminder to bring in empty frosting containers on Sunday for use with crafts during VBS. Thanks for your support of this ministry.
Catch Report
The Administrative Council and other members of the church recently completed the“Catch” study, encouraging us to become a relentlessly outward focused congregation. We are excited about some of the ideas that were generated in these sessions and we would like to share them with you immediately following worship this Sunday, June 23. Please plan to attend.
Celebration of Pastor Robin’s Commissioning
There will be a celebration of Pastor Robin’s Commissioning on Sunday, July 7 following the 10:30am worship service. Please bring a dish to share as we commemorate this special milestone in Pastor Robin’s ministry. For more information, please contact Betsy Bower, Staff-Parish Relations Committee Chairperson.
Looking Ahead to Buy Way Sale
Once again we will gather under the ‘ole oak tree for the Lincoln Buy Way Sale on August 8, 9 and 10. We will operate much the same as we did last year. Please be thinking about how you can help. We will offer tables for $10 each to individuals to sell their own things, plus have one or two tables from which proceeds will go to Oak Chapel. Think of gently used items you might have to donate. We will need some helping hands to set up on Wednesday evening, as well as cooking and serving hot dogs and other yummy food. All ideas are welcome. Contact Miriam Zech or Elizabeth Feldman. Please plan to come for a visit under the shade of the ‘ole oak tree!
Prayer Partners
As mentioned in the June Acorn, Pastor Robin is looking for people who will partner with her and commit to daily prayer for our community, our church, its present and future ministries, our church staff, and her as your pastor.  Please call or e-mail her to express your interest and commitment to this endeavor.
Summer Worship
Beginning Sunday, July 7, we will have two worship services on Sunday mornings. Our Heritage worship service, held in the Sanctuary at 8:30am, is ideal for those who wish to get an early start on the day or prefer traditional hymns and liturgies. The Celebration service, held in our air-conditioned Fellowship Hall at 10:30am, will feature lively praise music and will make use of our multi-media system. We are very excited about these new opportunities and hope you will invite your friends and neighbors to participate with us.
Next week’s calendar …
Sunday, 6/23 – Catch Report at 11:35am
Monday, 6/24 –Bible Study at 10:15am
Monday– Friday, 6/24 – 6/ 28 Vacation Bible School at 5:30pm
Saturday, 6/29 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
Sunday, 6/30 – United Methodist Women Unit Meeting at 11:45am
Itis a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | June 14, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
What a beautiful morning! I am excited to join the youth this morning on their trip to Cedar Point and Youth Annual Conference. Please pray for travel mercies and that this will be both a fun and growing experience for them.
Please also pray for Oak Chapel UMC’s Outreach event at Drug Mart tomorrow. I am pleased at the many ways our church is involved in our community.
This Sunday after worship, I will be leaving for Annual Conference and will not return to Wooster until Thursday, June 20. During that time I will have limited access to e-mails, but should you need to reach me, please text me or call my cell phone at 330-485-6878.
Please plan to join us for worship this Sunday. My sermon, titled “A Place of Welcome,”is based on Luke 7: 36 – 8:3. I look forward to seeing you there!
Catch Report
The Administrative Council and other members of the church recently completed the“Catch” study, encouraging us to become a relentlessly outward focused congregation. We are excited about some of the ideas that were generated in these sessions and we would like to share them with you immediately following worship next Sunday, June 23. Please plan to attend.
Prayer Partners
As mentioned in the June Acorn, Pastor Robin is looking for people who will partner with her and commit to daily prayer for our community, our church, its present and future ministries, our church staff, and her as your pastor.  Please call or e-mail her to express your interest and commitment to this endeavor.
Summer Worship
Beginning Sunday, July 7, we will have two worship services on Sunday mornings. Our Heritage worship service, held in the Sanctuary at 8:30am, is ideal for those who wish to get an early start on the day or prefer traditional hymns and liturgies. The Celebration service, held in our air-conditioned Fellowship Hall at 10:30am, will feature lively praise music and will make use of our multi-media system. We are very excited about these new opportunities and hope you will invite your friends and neighbors to participate with us.
Vacation Bible School
We are getting excited about Vacation Bible School! The dates are June 24 – 28. Our Backyard Adventure will include fun outdoor games, crafts, snacks and music, so grab your friends and come on over! There will be classes for all ages. Pastor Robin is teaching the adult class and she just might do some backyard science experiments! Each evening begins with a family supper at 5:30pm, with VBS from 6 – 8:30pm. Register online via the church website at www.oakchapelumc.com or call the church office at 330-264-2537. You won’t want to miss it!
Pastor Robin’s Commissioning
Pastor Robin will be commissioned as a Provisional Elder at Annual Conference this year. Everyone is invited to the Service of Commissioning and Ordination held in Hoover Auditorium at Lakeside on Tuesday, June 18 at 7:30pm. If you are unable to attend, you may watch the service via livestream on the East Ohio Conference website found at http://eocumc.com/.
Acorn Submissions
The next edition of the Acorn will combine July and August. The submission deadline is this Monday June 17 by Noon. Please send articles via e-mail to efeldman@woosterumc.org or place a printed copy in the Acorn mailbox in the church office.
Next week’s calendar …
Sunday, 6/16 – Blood Pressure Screenings after worship
Monday, 6/17 – Thursday, 6/20 – Annual Conference at Lakeside
Monday, 6/17 – Trustees at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 6/19 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:30pm
Saturday, 6/22 – Weight Loss Support Group     at 9:15am
Itis a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | June 7, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
I had the privilege of spending this week at the University of Mount Union teaching worship to the new pastors attending Licensing School. It was a great way to connect with those in the early stages of their ministries and to build relationships with others serving in our conference. It was an intense week with our daily schedule beginning with breakfast at 7am and concluding with Vespers at 9pm, yet I was energized by the passion and enthusiasm of these new pastors.
I’m excited to be back in Wooster and am looking forward to our worship together tomorrow. My sermon, titled “Procession, Parade, or Party?” is based on Luke 7: 11 – 17. Come to Sunday School at 9:30, then gather for worship at 10:30. And why not invite a friend to join you?
Summer Worship
Beginning Sunday, July 7, we will have two worship services on Sunday mornings. Our Heritage worship service, held in the Sanctuary at 8:30am, is ideal for those who wish to get an early start on the day or prefer traditional hymns and liturgies. The Celebration service, held in our air-conditioned Fellowship Hall at 10:30am, will feature lively praise music and will make use of our multi-media system. We are very excited about these new opportunities and hope you will invite your friends and neighbors to participate with us.
Flood Bucket Offering
Tomorrow we will have a special offering for flood buckets for UMCOR (The United Methodist Committee on Relief). Flood buckets and other kits offer care for the most vulnerable during times of crisis.  They provide vital support for UMCOR’s global development work and make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Your gifts to this cause will be taken to Annual Conference to be loaded on a truck bound for UMCOR’s Midwest Distribution Center.
Outreach Day at Drug Mart
Next Saturday, June 15 we will offer hospitality to the shoppers at the Drug Mart on the corner of Beall Avenue and Bowman Street. Hot dogs, chips and beverages (as well as church brochures and VBS information) will be shared. This is an excellent opportunity for us to show our community we care. Any proceeds received from the event will be given to Hospice and Palliative Care of Greater Wayne County. If you would like to help that day or can donate cans of pop, please see Cyndi Boyer.
Church T-Shirts for Sale
Our church T-shirts are selling like hotcakes! We currently just have youth sizes and Small, Medium and Large left, but additional sizes will be available next Sunday. Shirts are just $10.00 and are the perfect attire for outreach activities and other events like Fair Parking.
Vacation Bible School
We are getting excited about Vacation Bible School! The dates are June 24 – 28. Our Backyard Adventure will include fun outdoor games, crafts, snacks and music, so grab your friends and come on over! There will be classes for all ages. Pastor Robin is teaching the adult class and she just might do some backyard science experiments! Each evening begins with a family supper at 5:30pm, with VBS from 6 – 8:30pm. Register online via the church website at www.oakchapelumc.com or call the church office at 330-264-2537. You won’t want to miss it!
Compass Group Mission Trip –Update
Our Compass Group is doing a mission trip to Ocean, NJ to help with relief efforts after Super Storm Sandy last Fall. The dates of this trip are Sunday, August 4– Friday, August 9. There will be an informational meeting at Apple Creek UMC on Monday, June 10 at 6:30pm. Anyone interested in the trip should attend. The cost is $325 and this includes overnight accommodations at a local church, food and transportation.  Pastor Robin and others from Oak Chapel UMC are going and we’d love for you to join us. This is a great opportunity for us to put our faith into action.
Next week’s calendar …
Sunday, 6/9 – Youth Group Bonfire at Armbrusts at 6:30pm
                             Evening Bible Study at 6:30pm
Monday, 6/10 – Compass Group Mission Trip Info Meeting at Apple Creek           at 6:30pm
Tuesday, 6/11 –Memorials Committee at 7:00pm
Thursday, 6/13 – 4-H Club at 7:00pm
Friday, 6/14 – Youth Group to Youth Annual Conference
Saturday, 6/15 – Weight Loss Support Group      at 9:15am
                             Outreach Activity at DrugMart at 11:00am
Itis a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | May 31, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
On Tuesday evening we completed our “Catch” study. For the last four months, the Administrative Council and others in the church have studied scriptures and prayerfully considered ways our church can become relentlessly outward focused. Our conversations were enthusiastic and fruitful, and we look forward to implementing plans to engage more with our community and share with them the difference Jesus Christ has made in each of our lives.
 
One change that will be implemented in July is our summer worship. This year we will offer two worship services each Sunday morning from July 7 through September 8 (Fair Sunday). Our Heritage service will be held in the sanctuary at 8:30am. This service is ideal for those who wish to get an early start on the day or prefer traditional hymns and liturgies. The Celebration service, held in our air-conditioned Fellowship Hall at 10:30am, will feature lively praise music and will make use of our multi-media system. We are very excited about these new opportunities and hope you will invite your friends and neighbors to participate with us.
 
This Sunday we will celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion and our service will center around the gospel lection from Luke 7: 1 – 10. The sermon is titled “The Faith of an Outsider.” As it is the first Sunday of the month, it is my turn again in the children’s message rotation. I have another fun science demonstration planned. You will surely not want to miss it! Bring your family and friends to experience faith in new and unexpected ways. Hope to see you there!
 
Kids Day
Oak Chapel UMC is excited to participate in Wooster Kids Day (sponsored by Main Street Wooster) tomorrow, Saturday, June 1 from 1 – 4pm. We will decorate cookies with the children and have information about our church and Vacation Bible School available. This is a great way to show our community the joy of God’s love for all people. There are still opportunities to help. If you would like to participate, please call or e-mail Pastor Robin today.
 
Pastor Robin away
Pastor Robin will be teaching classes on worship and the sacraments to new pastors at Licensing School at Mount Union University this week, leaving after worship this Sunday and returning on Thursday, June 6. She will have full access to e-mail and will be available for emergencies via cell phone (330-485-6878) during that time.
 
Flood Bucket Offering
On Sundays June 2 and 9, we will have a special offering for flood buckets for UMCOR (The United Methodist Committee on Relief). Flood buckets and other kits offer care for the most vulnerable during times of crisis.  They provide vital support for UMCOR’s global development work and make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Your gifts to this cause will be taken to Annual Conference to be loaded on a truck bound for UMCOR’s Midwest Distribution Center.
 
Vacation Bible School
We are getting excited about Vacation Bible School! The dates are June 24 – 28. Our Backyard Adventure will include fun outdoor games, crafts, snacks and music, so grab your friends and come on over! There will be classes for all ages. Pastor Robin is teaching the adult class and she just might do some backyard science experiments! Each evening begins with a family supper at 5:30pm, with VBS from 6 – 8:30pm. Register online via the church website at www.oakchapelumc.com or call the church office at 330-264-2537. You won’t want to miss it!  
 
Outreach Day at Drug Mart
On Saturday, June 15 we will offer hospitality to the shoppers at the Drug Mart on the corner of Beall Avenue and Bowman Street. Hot dogs, chips and beverages (as well as church brochures and VBS information) will be shared. This is an excellent opportunity for us to show our community we care. Any proceeds received from the event will be given to Hospice and Palliative Care of Greater Wayne County. If you would like to help that day or can donate cans of pop, please see Cyndi Boyer.
 
Church T-Shirts for Sale
Our church T-shirts are selling like hotcakes! We currently just have youth sizes and Small, Medium and Large in stock, but more have been ordered!! Shirts are just $10.00 and are the perfect attire for outreach activities and other events like Fair Parking.
 
Compass Group Mission Trip – Update
Our Compass Group is doing a mission trip to Ocean, NJ to help with relief efforts after Super Storm Sandy last Fall. The dates of this trip are Sunday, August 4 – Friday, August 9. There will be an informational meeting at Apple Creek UMC on Monday, June 10 at 6:30pm. Anyone interested in the trip should attend. The cost is $325 and this includes overnight accommodations at a local church, food and transportation.  Pastor Robin and others from Oak Chapel UMC are going and we’d love for you to join us. This is a great opportunity for us to put our faith into action.
 
Next week’s calendar …
Sunday, 6/2 – Youth Group Water Outing immediately following worship
                             Evening Bible Study at 6:30pm
Monday, 6/3 – Retirees Breakfast – Milltown at 8:00am
Wednesday, 6/5 – Morning Circle at Betty Franks’ home at 9:30am
                             Choir rehearsal at 7:30pm
Thursday, 6/6 – Worship Committee at 7:00pm
Saturday, 6/8 – 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. See you in church!!
 
Grace and peace,
 
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | May 24, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
In our United Methodist tradition, today (May 24) is Aldersgate Day. On this day in 1738, John Wesley experienced the ‘confirmation of his salvation by the grace of God’ during a meeting on Aldersgate Street in London. According to his journal, Wesley was discouraged that his enthusiastic gospel message had been rejected by his Anglican brothers and he went to a society meeting that evening“very unwillingly.” While at that meeting, someone read from Martin Luther’s Preface to the book of Romans, and Wesley writes that his heart was “strangely warmed.” He says, “I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone, for salvation; and an assurance was given me that he had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.”
My prayer for you each of you today is that you, too, have an Aldersgate experience and receive confirmation and assurance of your salvation by the grace of God through Jesus Christ.
This Sunday is Trinity Sunday and we will explore our Trinitarian beliefs during worship at 10:30am. The scripture is Romans 5: 1 – 5 and the sermon is titled “Say What?” Don’t forget our annual Memorial Day  service at the Warner-Pioneer Cemetery at 9:30am during which we will honor Paul Shaffter and others who have faithfully served our country. Special thanks to Arden Boyer for coordinating this service.
Peace with Justice Offering
This Sunday, May 26, we will have our Peace with Justice Sunday offering. The Peace with Justice gifts change lives in places where the joy of knowing Christ is mixed with the tragedy of violence. This offering aids young and old disciples who are indeed changing lives and changing the world, inspired by Christ’s gospel of love and liberation.
Kids Day
Oak Chapel UMC is excited to participate in Wooster Kids Day (sponsored by Main Street Wooster) on Saturday, June 1 from 1 – 4pm. We will decorate cookies with the children and have information about our church and Vacation Bible School available. This is a great way to show our community the joy of God’s love for all people. If you would like to help with this event, please see Pastor Robin.
Compass Group Mission Trip –Update
Our Compass Group is doing a mission trip to Ocean, NJ to help with relief efforts after Super Storm Sandy last Fall. The dates of this trip have been changed due to the accommodations needed for our large group. The new dates are Sunday, August 4 –Friday, August 9. There will be an informational meeting at Apple Creek UMC on Monday, June 10 at 6:30pm. Anyone interested in the trip should attend. The cost is $325 and this includes overnight accommodations at a local church, food and transportation.  Pastor Robin and others from Oak Chapel UMC are going and we’d love for you to join us. This is a great opportunity for us to put our faith into action.
Church T-Shirts for Sale
Our church T-shirts are selling like hotcakes! We currently just have youth sizes and Small, Medium and Large left, but we can order more. If you would like to order a size that is not currently available, please see Pam Domer. She will be placing another order soon. Shirts are just $10.00 and are the perfect attire for outreach activities and other events like Fair Parking.
Flood Bucket Offering
On Sundays June 2 and 9, we will have a special offering for flood buckets for UMCOR (The United Methodist Committee on Relief). Flood buckets and other kits offer care for the most vulnerable during times of crisis.  They provide vital support for UMCOR’s global development work and make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Your gifts to this cause will be taken to Annual Conference to be loaded on a truck bound for UMCOR’s Midwest Distribution Center.
Pastor Robin away
Pastor Robin will be teaching classes on worship and the sacraments to new pastors at Licensing School at Mount Union University during the week of June 2, leaving after worship on Sunday, June 2 and returning on Thursday, June 6. She will have full access to e-mail and will be available for emergencies via cell phone (330-485-6878) during that time.
Next week’s calendar …
Sunday, 5/26 – Memorial Day Service at cemetery at 9:30am
                   Worship at Oak Chapel at 10:30am
Tuesday, 5/28 – Catch Study at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 5/29 – NO Choir rehearsal
Saturday, 6/1 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
                   UMW Executive Committee at 10:30am
                   Wooster Kids Day Downtown at 1:00pm
Itis a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | May 17, 2013

Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
Fifty days after the Resurrection of Jesus Christ the first Christians (who were mostly Jews) gathered to celebrate the Jewish festival known as Pentecost. At that gathering something so incredible happened that when writing about it, Luke, the author of the book of Acts, could only use metaphors. The sound of a rushing mighty wind. Something like tongues of fire appeared among them with a tongue resting on each one. It was then that they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Three thousand people were so moved by this experience that they were baptized that day and devoted themselves to the ways of Jesus. Some call this day the official birthday of the Church.
 
We will celebrate that occasion during worship this Sunday, May 19. Wear red to honor this special day.
 
Change the World
Don’t forget our Change the World event tomorrow! We will begin the day at 8:30am with a light breakfast and a time of reflection. Elaine Sprinkle is making her yummy breakfast rolls. That alone should be incentive to come. At 9:00 we will be sent out to our respective work locations and then will gather back at the church at Noon for another brief time of reflection and a delicious lunch provided by Betsy Bower.  Come and join with others as we serve our community. Wear your green Oak Chapel T-shirts. Participants will also receive our brand new rubber wristband bracelets with the church name and motto.  How many hands does it take to change the world? Yours! See you there!
 
Flood Bucket Offering
This Sunday, May 19, and on Sundays, June 2 and June 9, we will have a special offering for flood buckets for UMCOR (The United Methodist Committee on Relief). Flood buckets and other kits offer care for the most vulnerable during times of crisis.  They provide vital support for UMCOR’s global development work and make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Your gifts to this cause will be taken to Annual Conference to be loaded on a truck bound for UMCOR’s Midwest Distribution Center.
 
Church T-Shirts for Sale
Additional sizes of our Oak Chapel T-shirts have arrived and will be on sale in the Narthex on Sunday! They are the perfect attire for outreach activities and other events like fair parking.  They are green with the church name and United Methodist logo on the front and say “Serving God and Community” on the back. Sizes Small through 3XL are available. Each shirt is just $10.00. Get ‘em while they’re hot!
 
Memorial Day Service
On Sunday, May 26, we will have our annual Memorial Day service, coordinated by Arden Boyer, at the Warner-Pioneer cemetery at 9:30am. Please join us as we honor those who have served our country.
 
Acorn News Due
The deadline to submit information for our monthly newsletter is the 15th of each month – that was Wednesday!  If you have items for the June Acorn, Elizabeth is offering us grace. Please submit your items to her via e-mail at efeldman@woosterumc.org (or place printed items in the Acorn box in the church office) by Monday, May 20 at Noon. This is a firm deadline. Thanks for your attention to this matter.
 
Peace with Justice Offering
Next Sunday, May 26, we will have our Peace with Justice Sunday offering. The Peace with Justice gifts change lives in places where the joy of knowing Christ is mixed with the tragedy of violence. This offering aids young and old disciples who are indeed changing lives and changing the world, inspired by Christ’s gospel of love and liberation.
 
Compass Group Mission Trip
Our Compass Group is planning a mission trip to Ocean, NJ to help with the relief efforts after Superstorm Sandy. The dates are Sunday, July 28 through Saturday, August 3. The cost is roughly $300 per person. Pastor Robin is going and would like others from Oak Chapel to join her. This is a great opportunity for us to “be” the church in the world. Please prayerfully consider participating.
 
Next week’s calendar
Sunday, 5/19 – Blood Pressure Screenings after worship
                             Youth Groups at 6:30pm
                             Change the World Study at 6:30pm
Monday, 5/20 – Bible Study at 10:15am
                             Prayer Shawl Ministry at 5:30pm
                             NO TRUSTEES
Tuesday, 5/21 – Compass Group Meeting – Rittman at 6:30pm
Wednesday, 5/22 – Choir rehearsal at 7:30pm
Thursday, 5/23 – Christian Education Committee at 7:00pm
                             4 – H at 7:00pm
Saturday, 5/25 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
 
         
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin
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