In A Nutshell | October 17, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,

Our Fall activities are in full swing at Oak Chapel UMC! I trust you will come and take part in some of the opportunities listed in this edition of the Nutshell.

 

As you may know, I will be on vacation tomorrow, Friday, October 17 through next Friday, October 24, returning to work on Saturday, October 25 for the Bazaar! While I am away, I will not be checking the parsonage voicemail, my cell phone voicemail, e-mail or text messages. The office staff will check the church voicemail and respond accordingly. For urgent pastoral care needs, please call Rev. Jon Heavilin at 330-264-4939 (home) or 330-464-8935 (cell).

 

This Sunday, Rev. Jim Pfander’s message is titled “Justice, Mercy, Compassion and Trust,” based on Matthew 22: 15 – 22. This Sunday is also the first Fellowship Luncheon of the season. There will be yummy food and fabulous fellowship in Fellowship Hall after worship. This is a great way to build and grow relationships with others in our church. Bring a dish to share and your own table service.

 

Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.

 

It’s Mincemeat Time!

We will cook and can the tasty mixture this Saturday, October 18 beginning at 8:30 a.m. We need the most help at the beginning – chopping apples – so we can get the simmering started quickly. Miriam Zech is coordinating this project and will accept ALL help.

 

Annual Bazaar

The Annual Bazaar will be next Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Our success always depends on YOU! We need crafts, both decorative and useful, treats for the Kitchen Korner, and some Nice As New table offerings. We need some food prepared for the Luncheon and foods we sell – always a big hit. Help is needed in all departments all day. Look for opportunities to sign up. See Miriam Zech for more information.

 

All Saints Sunday

On Sunday, November 2, we will celebrate All Saints Day during worship. This special day on the liturgical calendar is a time to remember those “in the company of heaven” with whom we always worship and share the Lord’s Supper.  We will read the names of and light a candle for those who have died since All Saints Day last year. If you would like your loved one included, please contact Pastor Robin.

 

Candy Sales Force Needed

To make our time and effort count, we need YOU to sell our delicious Glass Candy to family, friends and co-workers. And of course it makes a wonderful gift for the mail carrier, teacher, and beautician. A bag (approx. 1 lb) sells for $5 which includes 10 flavors. We also take special orders for one flavor in a bag.  We’d love to have you join us on Monday evenings through November 24. We gather at 6:15 p.m. No experience necessary! We will provide training! Come enjoy the fellowship as we work together.

 

Trunk or Treat

The Outreach Committee is very excited about our fourth annual Trunk or Treat, which will be held next Sunday, October 26 from 3:30 – 5:00pm in our parking lot.  Decorate your trunk, dress up if you wish, and get ready to hand out candy to the children in our community. There will be snacks and cookie decorating, and a contest for the most creative trunk.

 

Plain Township Sunday School Convention

The 137th Plain Township Sunday School Convention will be held Sunday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at Oak Chapel United Methodist Church. Entertainment will be provided by Gary Bonewitz playing guitar and singing. Refreshments will follow.

Church Conference

Our Church Conference will be held on Sunday, November 9 at Oak Chapel at 2:00pm. These annual meetings, presided by our District Superintendent Ed Peterson, are held with other churches in our compass group. During these sessions we do some important annual business of the church (approving budgets, salaries, leadership) and learn about the ministries of all the churches in our compass group. Everyone is welcome and all church leaders are expected.

 

Opportunities for Ministry Next Week

Sunday, 10/19 – Sunday School at 9:30am

Worship at 10:30am

Blood Pressure Screenings after worship

Fellowship Luncheon after worship

NO Luke Bible Study

Youth Fellowship / Saplings at 6:30pm

Monday, 10/20 – Bible Study at 10:15am

Candy Making at 6:15pm

Trustees at 7:00pm

Wednesday, 10/22 – NO Choir Rehearsal

Thursday, 10/23 – Christian Education Committee at 7:00pm

Friday, 10/24 – Bazaar Set Up

Saturday, 10/25 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am

Bazaar from 10:00am till 2:00pm

Staff-Parish Committee at Dalton UMC at 11:00am

 

It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. I look forward to seeing you at the Bazaar next Saturday!

 

Grace and peace,

Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | October 10, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,

I trust that you are appreciating the beauty of this season and the colors of the leaves. Make some time to take in the wonder of God’s creation.

 

This Sunday the New Jersey Mission Team will share stories and pictures during worship. Come hear how God is at work in the lives of those affected by Superstorm Sandy and in the collaborative efforts of United Methodist organizations and other agencies working toward restoration. Following worship, we will have a brief congregational informational meeting during which the Finance Committee will present the proposed 2015 budget and the Nominations Committee will present the proposed 2015 leadership roster. We hope you will join us.

 

Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.

 

Candy Sales Force Needed

To make our time and effort count, we need YOU to sell our delicious Glass Candy to family, friends and co-workers. And of course it makes a wonderful gift for the mail carrier, teacher, and beautician. Once again we will sell a bag (approx. 1 lb) for $5. Our mix is 10 flavors. We also take special orders for one flavor in a bag. All special orders will be made after the Bazaar. We’d love to have you join us on Monday, October 13 and every Monday thereafter through November 24. We gather at 6:15 p.m. No experience necessary! We will provide training! Come enjoy the fellowship as we work together.

 

Church Women United

The Church Women United World Community Day Brunch will be held next Saturday, October 18 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Peter Lutheran Church in New Pittsburg. The cost is $7.50 per person and reservations must be made by this Monday, October 13. Please see Joanne Jolliff for more information.

 

It’s Mincemeat Time!

We will cook and can the tasty mixture next Saturday, October 18 beginning at 8:30 a.m. We need the most help at the beginning – chopping apples – so we can get the simmering started quickly. Miriam Zech is coordinating this project and will accept ALL help.

 

Annual Bazaar

The Annual Bazaar will be Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Our success always depends on YOU! We need crafts, both decorative and useful, treats for the Kitchen Korner, and some Nice As New table offerings. We need some food prepared for the Luncheon and foods we sell – always a big hit. Help is needed in all departments all day. Look for opportunities to sign up. See Miriam Zech for more information.

 

Trunk or Treat

Mark your calendars now! The Outreach Committee is very excited about our fourth annual Trunk or Treat, which will be held on Sunday, October 26 from 3:30 – 5:00pm in our parking lot.  Decorate your trunk, dress up if you wish, and get ready to hand out candy to the children in our community. There will be snacks and cookie decorating, and a contest for the most creative trunk.

 

Fellowship Luncheons

Our first Fellowship Luncheon of the season will be held after worship next Sunday, October 19. Please join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship for some yummy food and fabulous fellowship. This is a great way to build and grow relationships with others in our church. Bring a dish to share and your own table service.

 

Pastor Robin’s Vacation

Pastor Robin will be on vacation Friday, October 17 through Friday, October 24. Rev. Jon Heavilin, pastor at New Pittsburg UMC, will cover for pastoral emergencies. Rev. Jon can be reached at 330-264-4939 (home) or 330-464-8935 (cell).

 

All Saints Sunday

On Sunday, November 2, we will celebrate All Saints Day during worship. This special day on the liturgical calendar is a time to remember those “in the company of heaven” with whom we always worship and share the Lord’s Supper.  We will read the names of and light a candle for those who have died since All Saints Day last year. If you would like your loved one included, please contact Pastor Robin.

 

Opportunities for Ministry Next Week

Sunday, 10/12 – Sunday School at 9:30am

Worship at 10:30am

Congregational Meeting following worship

Pastor Robin’s Bible Study at 6:30pm

Monday, 10/13 – Bible Study a 10:15am

Candy Making at 6:15pm

Wednesday, 10/15      ACORN DEADLINE

Choir rehearsal at 7:30pm

Thursday, 10/16 – History Scrapbooking at 6:30pm

Saturday, 10/18 – Mincemeat Making at 8:30am

Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am

Church Women United Brunch at 9:30am

 

 

It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. I look forward to seeing you in church on Sunday!

 

Grace and peace,

Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | October 3, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,

I had a wonderful time on the UMW trip to New York City last weekend. Our seminar on human trafficking at the Church Center for the United Nations was both engaging and thought-provoking, and compelled us to action. This Sunday, the group will briefly share their experiences at the UMW Unit meeting after worship. Bring a sack lunch and join us for the meeting. The group will also share more extensively with the whole congregation on Sunday, November 16, presenting ways that we can take action right against human trafficking right here in our own community.

 

This Sunday is also World Communion Sunday, a day set aside to celebrate this sacrament with our sisters and brothers around the globe. Members are encouraged to dress in clothing that reflects your heritage or other countries you have visited as we celebrate the unity of Christ’s body in the four corners of the world. My sermon, “Pressing on to the Holy,” is based on Philippians 3: 4b – 14.

 

Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.

 

Parking Lot Project is Complete!

The parking lot project is now complete and it looks beautiful!  Many thanks to all who helped to make this church dream a reality – including those who contributed to the fund, the Trustees, and especially Roger Burckhart for the countless hours of his own work preparing the lot as well as his research and work with our contractors.

 

Sunday Evening Bible Study on Luke

Pastor Robin’s Bible Study on Luke begins Sunday night at 6:30pm in Fellowship Hall. In this study we will explore the author’s purpose for writing this gospel and five distinctive themes found in Luke including: Good News to the Poor; Release and Restoration; Possessions and Wealth; Hospitality and Table Fellowship; and The Status of Women. The sessions will run from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

 

Candy Making

It’s that time of year! Preparations are being made for our annual candy-making season. Starting Monday, October 13 and every Monday thereafter throughout October and November, we will gather at 6:15 p.m. to make and cut our famous glass (hard-tack) candy. No experience necessary! We will provide training! Come enjoy the fellowship as we work together.

 

Church-wide meetings

In preparation for our annual Church Conference on November 9, we will hold two church-wide meetings after worship on Sundays, October 12 and 26. At the first meeting on 10/12, the Finance and Nominating Committees will present the budget and leadership roster for 2015 and answer questions.  The purpose of the meeting on 10/26 is to approve these items for our church conference.

 

It’s Mincemeat Time!

This year we will cook and can the tasty mixture on Saturday, October 18 beginning at 8:30 a.m. We need the most help at the beginning – chopping apples – so we can get the simmering started quickly. Miriam Zech is coordinating this project and will accept ALL help as well as donations of brown sugar, crushed pineapple, raisins and cash to purchase meat and cider.

 

Annual Bazaar

The Annual Bazaar will be Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Our success always depends on YOU! We need crafts, both decorative and useful, treats for the Kitchen Korner, and some Nice As New table offerings. We need some food prepared for the Luncheon and foods we sell – always a big hit. Help is needed in all departments all day. Look for opportunities to sign up. See Miriam Zech for more information.

 

Trunk or Treat

Mark your calendars now! The Outreach Committee is very excited about our fourth annual Trunk or Treat, which will be held on Sunday, October 26 from 3:30 – 5:00pm in our parking lot.  Decorate your trunk, dress up if you wish, and get ready to hand out candy to the children in our community. There will be snacks and cookie decorating, and a contest for the most creative trunk.

 

Fellowship Luncheons

Our first Fellowship Luncheon of the season will be held after worship on Sunday, October 19. Oak Chapel has traditionally held these luncheons on the third Sunday of each month during Fall and Winter (October through March). Please join us in the Fellowship Hall after worship for some scrumptious food and fabulous fellowship. This is a great way to build and grow relationships with others in our community of faith. Bring a dish to share and your own table service.

 

All Saints Sunday

On Sunday, November 2, we will celebrate All Saints Day during worship. This special day on the liturgical calendar is a time to remember those “in the company of heaven” with whom we always worship and share the Lord’s Supper.  We will read the names of and light a candle for those who have died since All Saints Day last year. If you would like your loved one included, please contact Pastor Robin.

 

Opportunities for Ministry Next Week

Sunday, 10/5 – Sunday School at 9:30am

World Communion Worship at 10:30am

UMW Unit Meeting at 11:45am

Pastor Robin’s Bible Study at 6:30pm

Youth Groups at 6:30pm

Monday, 10/6 – Retirees Breakfast at 8:00am

Bible Study at 10:15am

Nominations Committee at 6:00pm

Art and Soul at 7:00pm

Finance Committee at 7:00pm

Tuesday, 10/7 – Administrative Council at 7:00pm

Wednesday, 10/8 – Choir rehearsal at 7:30pm

Thursday, 10/9 – History Scrapbooking at 6:30pm

Saturday, 10/11 – United Methodist Men – Green Leaf at 7:30am

 

It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. I look forward to seeing you in church on Sunday!

 

Grace and peace,

Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | September 19, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
We had a wonderful Rally Day service last Sunday with the Puppets of Grace! I heard many delightful comments from both children and those in their wisdom years. It was a great day with an entertaining message and delicious fellowship and lunch.
 
Did you know that there were 121 people there last week? Many commented on how good it felt to worship in a full sanctuary. While numbers are not our most important priority, one of the several indicators of church vitality is worship attendance. I have said on more than one occasion that it is my goal for Oak Chapel to have an average of 150 people in worship by the time the Bishop appoints me elsewhere. As you likely know, a few months ago, Georgia Taylor issued a challenge. She challenged us to have two Sundays in a row with 100 or more people in worship before she finishes her infamous prayer shawl. So … we had 121 people in church last week. Do you think we can have 100 this week? I think so! I am planning a science experiment for my children’s message. You won’t want to miss it! My sermon is titled “A Generous Boss” and is based on Matthew 20: 1- 16.
 
Let’s show Georgia that we can have 100 or more people in worship two Sundays in a row! The winner of the challenge gets to “pie” the other. Georgia better wear her rain gear this Sunday!
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Nursery Helpers
The helper in the nursery this Sunday is April Aten. The helpers in the nursery next Sunday, 9/28 are Joanne and Kate Jolliff.
 
Special Offering
The Outreach Committee encourages support of missions both near and far. This Sunday we will receive a special offering for the Northwestern Religious Education program.
Pastoral Coverage
I will be traveling to New York City with the United Methodist Women next Thursday, September 25 through Monday, September 29. Rev. Jon Heavilin, pastor at New Pittsburg UMC, will cover for pastoral emergencies. Rev. Jon can be reached at 330-264-4939 (home) or 330-464-8935 (cell).
 
Parking Lot Update
The paving of the church parking lot should begin this week. Please note that after the paving, the parking lot will be lined with a new configuration. More details will be included in next Sunday’s bulletin.
 
Candy Making
It’s that time of year! Preparations are being made for our annual candy-making season. Starting Monday, October 13 and every Monday thereafter throughout October and November, we will gather at 6:15 p.m. to make and cut our famous glass (hard-tack) candy. No experience necessary! We will provide training! Come enjoy the fellowship as we work together.
 
Annual Bazaar
Have you started working on crafts for the bazaar? There are just five weeks left until our annual bazaar on Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mark your calendars. Invite everyone you know to shop and enjoy the best lunch in town!
 
Trunk or Treat
Mark your calendars now! The Outreach Committee is very excited about our fourth annual Trunk or Treat, which will be held on Sunday, October 26 from 3:30 – 5:00pm in our parking lot.  Decorate your trunk, dress up if you wish, and get ready to hand out candy to the children in our community. There will be snacks and cookie decorating, and a contest for the most creative trunk.
 
Sunday Evening Bible Study on Luke
Beginning Sunday, October 5, Pastor Robin will lead a six-week Bible Study on the Gospel of Luke. In this study we will explore the author’s purpose for writing this gospel and distinctive themes found in Luke including Christianity’s universal nature and appeal, the role of women in Jesus’ ministry, Jesus’ compassion for those considered “other,” as well as a series of reversals found throughout the narrative. The sessions will run from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Mark your calendars now and plan to attend.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 9/21 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Worship at 10:30am
                                    Jefferson School Reunion at 1:00pm
                                    Youth Groups at 6:30pm
Monday, 9/22 – Prayer Shawl Ministry at 5:30pm
                                    Nominating Committee at 6:15pm
                                    Staff-Parish Relations Committee at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 9/24 – Choir Rehearsal at 7:30pm
Thursday, 9/25 thru Monday, 9/29 – UMW Trip to NYC
Thursday, 9/25 – 4-H Pizza Party at 6:30pm
Saturday, 9/27 – 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 seeing you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | September 12, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
Another Wayne County Fair is in the books. It was a great time for all. Congratulations to those who won awards for their entries.
 
This Sunday is our annual Rally Day featuring the Puppets of Grace. This award-winning troupe presents an entertaining musical program that will dazzle children of all ages. Invite your friends and neighbors to enjoy the show! During worship we will also honor our Sunday School teachers and present Bibles to students in third grade. After the service, we will have a delicious luncheon featuring chicken sandwiches and sloppy joes. Please bring a side dish or dessert to share.
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Nursery Helpers
This Sunday’s nursery assistant is April Aten. The assistant next Sunday, 9/21 is Tina Clevidence.
 
Sunday Evening Bible Study on Luke
Beginning Sunday, October 5, Pastor Robin will lead a six-week Bible Study on the Gospel of Luke. In this study we will explore the author’s purpose for writing this gospel and distinctive themes found in Luke including Christianity’s universal nature and appeal, the role of women in Jesus’ ministry, Jesus’ compassion for those considered “other,” as well as a series of reversals found throughout the narrative. The sessions will run from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Mark your calendars now and plan to attend.
 
Fall Festivals at The Wanake Ranch
Come join the fun of Fall at Camp Wanake on Saturdays, September 27 and October 4 from 2 – 6:00pm. There will be pumpkin painting and pony rides, a kiddie hay maze and trick ropes, games on horseback and cowboy games, wagon rides and face painting! There will also be food for sale and opportunities to make your own s’more over the open fire. Hot dogs, sloppy joes, coneys, nachos, carmel apples, pumpkin cake, hot cider, and hot cocoa are sure to please. You are invited, so plan to attend today. (No reservations are necessary.) Camp Wanake is located at 9759 Manchester Avenue SW, Beach City, OH.
   
Christian Children’s Home of Ohio
The Christian Children’s Home of Ohio’s Second Annual FallFest 5K is Saturday, Oct. 4, at 9:30 AM and features a competitive run, leisure walk, kids’ fun run and activities, and post-race party.  Info and registration for this charity event to support CCHO’s Christian mission to hurting children and families is at www.ccho.org.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 9/14 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Rally Day Worship with Puppets of Grace at            10:30am
                                    Rally Day Luncheon after worship
                                    Youth Meeting at 6:30pm
Monday, 9/15 – ACORN DEADLINE – This deadline is firm!
                                    Trustees at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 9/16 – Outreach Committee at 6:30pm
Wednesday, 9/17 – Choir rehearsal at 7:30pm
Thursday, 9/18 – UMW Assemble School Kits at 6:30pm
                                    History Scrapbooking at 6:30pm
Saturday, 9/20 – District UMW – Dalton UMC 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 | September 5, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
It’s Fair Time! If you have not yet signed up to help with parking cars, please contact Christy Rickard (330-439-3201) as some help is still needed. Consider wearing your church T-shirt to the Fair. It’s a great way to show that great things are happening at Oak Chapel UMC and that you are proud to be part of this faith community. Be safe as you “do” the Fair this week. I look forward to seeing all of you!
 
This Sunday we resume our Fall/Winter/Spring worship schedule with one service at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary. During this first combined worship service of the season we will honor the Clevidence Family as they prepare to move to Columbus. Sunday also marks the final “Gospel in Disney” message which will feature a clip from the movie “Frozen,” based on 1 John 4: 7- 21.
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Nursery Helpers
This Sunday’s nursery assistant is Dick Silver. The assistant next Sunday, 9/14 is April Aten.
 
Rally Day – Puppets of Grace
The Puppets of Grace will be at Oak Chapel for Rally Day next Sunday, September 14. Children of ALL ages will appreciate this award-winning troupe’s upbeat, entertaining and musical show with its message of God’s love for all through Jesus Christ. We will have a fellowship meal after the service. The church is providing sloppy joes. Please bring a friend (or two or more!) and a dish to share. You won’t want to miss it!
 
New Jersey Mission Update
During worship on Sunday, October 12, Pastor Robin and Kim, Pam and Katy Domer will share stories and pictures from their recent mission trip to New Jersey. Come hear how God is at work both in the lives of those affected by Superstorm Sandy and in the lives of those helping them.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 9/7 – Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Worship at10:30am
                                    WAYNE COUNTY FAIR THRU THURSDAY
Saturday, 9/13 – 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 seeing you in church on Sunday!
 
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin

In A Nutshell | August 29, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
I hope you will join us for our final 8:30 Heritage service and 10:30 Celebration service this Sunday as we continue our “Gospel in Disney” series with a clip from the movie “Up.” My sermon, titled “Ringing the Doorbell,” is based on Ruth 1: 1 – 18.
 
Next Sunday, September 7 we will resume our Fall/Winter/Spring worship schedule with one service at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary. During that first combined worship service of the season we will honor the Clevidence Family as they prepare to move to Columbus and the final “Gospel in Disney” message will feature a clip from the movie “Frozen.”
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
HELP NEEDED TOMORROW – Saturday, August 30 at 9:00 a.m.
The carpets in all of the rooms and hallways in the Educational Wing of the church are being cleaned today. Assistance is needed to move furniture, chairs and other items back into their respective classrooms. With many hands and legs, this job should not take very long to complete. Can you spare 15 or 20 minutes tomorrow morning at 9:00? Your help is greatly appreciated!
 
Nursery Helpers
This Sunday’s nursery assistant is April Aten. The assistant next Sunday, 9/7 is Dick Silver.
 
Fair Parking!
The Wayne County Fair is just a week away! One of Oak Chapel’s largest fundraisers is managing the parking lots at East of Chicago Pizza and Swift Auto Parts during the Fair. This activity gives us great visibility in the community, but it also requires lots of volunteers. If you are interested in helping with this venture, please sign up on the clipboard on the back table or see Christy Rickard for more information.
 
Wear your T-shirts at the Fair!
Consider wearing your church T-shirt at the Wayne County Fair. Show that great things are happening at Oak Chapel UMC and you are proud to be part of this faith community. If you do not have a church T-shirt, they are available in the Narthex. Just $10 each.
Rally Day – Puppets of Grace
Mark your calendars now! The Puppets of Grace will return to Oak Chapel UMC for our annual Rally Day on Sunday, September 14. Children of ALL ages will appreciate this award-winning troupe’s upbeat, entertaining and musical show with its message of God’s love for all through Jesus Christ. We will have a fellowship meal after the service. The church is providing sloppy joes. Please bring a friend (or two or more!) and a dish to share. You won’t want to miss it!
 
New Jersey Mission Update
During worship on Sunday, October 12, Pastor Robin and Kim, Pam and Katy Domer will share stories and pictures from their recent mission trip to New Jersey. Come hear how God is at work both in the lives of those affected by Superstorm Sandy and in the lives of those helping them.
 
Looking Ahead to Charge/Church Conference
Our annual church conference will be held on November 9 at 2:00pm in our sanctuary. At this annual meeting with the District Superintendent and the other churches in our compass group, we will review and evaluate the mission and ministry of our church, set pastoral and staff salaries, approve the annual budget, and elect members of the church council. All church members are encouraged to attend and church leaders are expected to attend.
 
Church Women United
Church Women United of the Wooster/Wayne County area, will host the Area E meeting, encompassing Massillon, Canton, Medina and Mansfield. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Second Baptist Church, 245 S. Grant Street, Wooster. A good day is has been planned. We hope you will become a part of this nationwide ecumenical organization that began in the 1940s. The deadline to register is September 5. Please see Joanne Jolliff for more information.
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 8/31 – Heritage Worship at 8:30am
                                    Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Celebration Worship at10:30am
Monday, 9/1 – Labor Day – Office Closed
                                    Retirees Breakfast – Milltown at 8:00am
Thursday, 9/4 – History Scrapbooking at 6:30pm
                                    Worship Committee at 7:00pm
Saturday, 9/6 – Wayne County Fair Begins
                                    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 | August 22, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
 
“When you find your definitions in God, you find the very purpose for which you were created. Put your hand into God’s hand, know his absolutes, demonstrate his love, present his truth, and the message of redemption and transformation will take hold.” ~~ Ravi Zacharias
 
This Sunday we continue our “Gospel in Disney” sermon series with a clip from Beauty and the Beast. My message, titled “A Before-and-After Story,” is based on Acts 9: 1 – 21.
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Fair Parking!
The Wayne County Fair is just two weeks away! One of Oak Chapel’s largest fundraisers is managing the parking lots at East of Chicago Pizza and Swift Auto Parts during the Fair. This activity gives us great visibility in the community, but it also requires lots of volunteers. If you are interested in helping with this venture, please sign up on the clipboard when you come to worship or see Christy Rickard for more information.
Fall Worship Schedule
On Sunday, September 7, we will return to our Fall/Winter/Spring worship schedule with one service at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary.
Rally Day – Puppets of Grace
Mark your calendars now! The Puppets of Grace will return to Oak Chapel UMC for our annual Rally Day on Sunday, September 14. Children of all ages will appreciate this award-winning troupe’s show and message. Invite your friends and neighbors to this fun and inspiring event!
 
Looking Ahead to Charge/Church Conference
Our annual church conference will be held on November 9 at 2:00pm in our sanctuary. At this annual meeting with the District Superintendent and the other churches in our compass group, we will review and evaluate the mission and ministry of our church, set pastoral and staff salaries, approve the annual budget, and elect members of the church council. All church members are encouraged to attend and church leaders are expected to attend.
 
Church Women United
Church Women United of the Wooster/Wayne County area, will host the Area E meeting, encompassing Massillon, Canton, Medina and Mansfield. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Second Baptist Church, 245 S. Grant Street, Wooster, has volunteered to host this event. We are hoping for a good attendance from all of the churches in the Wayne County area. Watch for more information and registration deadline in an article in The Wooster Daily Record. We hope you will become a part of this nationwide ecumenical organization that began in the 1940s. Please see Joanne Jolliff for more information.
 
Service within our Congregation
The Nominations and Leadership Development Committee has begun its work of praying and discerning who might be willing to serve in a leadership capacity at Oak Chapel in 2015. On our Sunday worship attendance slips you will have an opportunity to indicate your willingness to serve in the following areas. If you are unable to come to church, please reply to this e-mail with your response.
Staff/Parish Relations — works with pastor and staff to manage the ministry of the congregation
Trustees — responsible for the church building, grounds and other assets
Finance — oversees the financial aspects of the church including giving, bills, and audits
Outreach — encourages the church to move beyond the walls through mission and evangelism
Christian Education — responsible for the spiritual development of the congregation
Membership Care — cares for the overall well-being of the congregation
Worship& Music — works with the pastor to plan and implement all aspects of our worship experiences
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 8/24 – Heritage Worship at 8:30am
                                    Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Celebration Worship at 10:30am
Monday, 8/25 – Prayer Shawl Ministry at 5:30pm
                                    Nominating Committee at 6:15pm
                                    Staff-Parish Relations Committee at 7:00pm
Wednesday, 8/26 – Youth Planning Meeting at 7:00pm
Thursday, 8/28 – History Scrapbooking at 6:30pm
                                    4 – H at 7:00pm
Friday, 8/29 – Carpet Cleaning – All Day
Saturday, 8/30 – 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 | August 15, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
The excitement is building at Oak Chapel! Both kids and adults are looking forward to our Back to School Bash tomorrow from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. The bouncehouse with slide and ball pit was delivered this morning and I’ve already had church members ask if they can come to test it out tonight! There will be food, games and door prizes, including an iPod.  It’s a free event so grab your friends and family and come join the fun!
 
On Sunday morning we will have our annual blessing of the backpacks at both services. Sunday also marks the beginning of our “Gospel in Disney” sermon series. Why not invite a friend to join you for worship? The sermon titled “A Fascination with Humans” is based on Psalm 8 and will include a clip from The Little Mermaid.
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Fair Parking!
The Wayne County Fair is less than a month away! One of Oak Chapel’s largest fundraisers is managing the parking lots at East of Chicago Pizza and Swift Auto Parts during the Fair. This activity gives us great visibility in the community, but it also requires lots of volunteers. If you are interested in helping with this venture, please contact Christy Rickard. There will be a sign-up sheet at church on Sunday.
 
Rally Day – Puppets of Grace
Mark your calendars now! The Puppets of Grace will return to Oak Chapel UMC for our annual Rally Day on Sunday, September 14. Children of all ages will appreciate this award-winning troupe’s show and message. Invite your friends and neighbors to this fun and inspiring event!
 
Wipe Out Ebola
The United Methodist Church has been present with the people of West Africa since the beginning of the Ebola epidemic this spring. As the disease picks up speed, the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is ramping up its response. The 3Cs Mission of the East Ohio Conference is partnering with Med Wish to send a container of supplies, gloves, masks, and gowns. We need financial commitments and prayers to make this happen. Take this opportunity to be the hands feet and heart of Jesus to people in West Africa. See more at
http://www.eocumc.com/join/ ebola.html.
All are invited to a Camphor Partners meeting this Sunday, August 17 at 2:30 at Brecksville UMC to talk more about what is happening in Liberia, at Camphor Mission with UMVIM teams, solar energy project, and more.
Because there is no cure or vaccine for the Ebola virus, education is crucial in stopping the spread of the deadly outbreak. Learn the challenges facing families of Ebola victims and of the doctors and nurses fighting keep people healthy.  “We are women. We are strong. Don’t just sit there, do something.” This Liberian UMW chant is a rallying cry in the country. Liberian women played a major role in ending the country’s 14-year civil war and now hope to end the outbreak of Ebola. On Sunday, August 24 at 5:00 at Celebration UMC in Cleveland see Pray the Devil Back to Hell, the movie made about their efforts to stop Charles Taylor, Liberia’s former president, and learn what you can do to stop Ebola.
 
Service within our Congregation
The Nominations and Leadership Development Committee has begun its work of praying and discerning who might be willing to serve in a leadership capacity at Oak Chapel in 2015. On our Sunday worship attendance slips you will have an opportunity to indicate your willingness to serve in the following areas. If you are unable to come to church, please reply to this e-mail with your response.
Staff/Parish Relations — works with pastor and staff to manage the ministry of the congregation
Trustees — responsible for the church building, grounds and other assets
Finance — oversees the financial aspects of the church including giving, bills, and audits
Outreach — encourages the church to move beyond the walls through mission and evangelism
Christian Education — responsible for the spiritual development of the congregation
Membership Care — cares for the overall well-being of the congregation
Worship& Music — works with the pastor to plan and implement all aspects of our worship experiences
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 8/17 – Heritage Worship at 8:30am
                                    Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Celebration Worship at 10:30am
                                    Blood pressure screenings after worship
Monday, 8/18 – Trustees at 7:00pm
Tuesday, 8/19 – Akron Rubber Ducks Game meet at 5:30pm
Wednesday, 8/20 – New York City Trip Meeting at 7:00pm
Thursday, 8/21 – History Scrapbooking at 6:30pm
Friday, 8/22 – AirGas using church parking lot
Saturday, 8/23 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
                                    UMW Executive Committee at 10:30am
                                    Ladies Spiritual Spa Day 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 | August 8, 2014

Hello, Oak Chapel Friends,
Great things are happening at Oak Chapel this week! We are in the midst of the Lincoln Buy Way Sale – which runs till 5:00 today and from 8:00am till 2:00pm tomorrow. Come on by to fellowship with others over a delicious lunch and yummy homemade ice cream, and to purchase some great treasures.
 
Next Saturday afternoon we will host a Community Back to School Bash. I hope you will not only consider being a part of this event, but will also invite your friends to join you. Sponsored by the Outreach Committee, this event runs from 4:00 – 7:00pm and will include games, food, balloons, and a bounce house that has a large slide with a ball pit. Both children and adults can enjoy the bounce house. There will also be a drawing for a free iPod Touch and other prizes. Last week a postcard was sent to homes within a 3-mile radius of the church about this and other events at Oak Chapel. We are planning for 150 people and I hope YOU will be one of them!
 
This Sunday I will complete the “What’s the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian” sermon series with a message titled “Jesus’ Resurrection: Is There Hope?” based on Matthew 28: 1 – 7. I look forward to worshiping with you!
 
Below you will find announcements and other important information about upcoming events. Please review and mark your calendars accordingly.
 
Blessing of the Backpacks
In preparation for the start of school the week of August 18, we will have a backpack blessing during both worship services on Sunday, August 17. Invite your friends, neighbors, children, grandchildren or anyone else you know for this special time of prayer and blessing for the new school year.
 
Disney Sermon Series
Disney movies have entertained us for over 75 years. Beginning August 17, Pastor Robin will do a four-week sermon series titled “The Gospel in Disney.” This series will look at scriptural themes in four popular Disney movies. Whether you are 4 or 94, you will enjoy the gospel themes presented in a brand new way. This series also presents an excellent opportunity to invite your friends and neighbors to join us for worship. Please prayerfully consider who you will invite.
 
Ladies Spiritual Spa Day
There are only a few spots left for the ladies spiritual spa day on Saturday, August 23 from 12:00pm – 3:30pm. The cost is $25.00 per person and includes lunch, a 15-minute chair massage by a licensed massage therapist, manicure by licensed manicurist, wax hand massage, gift bag, spiritual activities, a chocolate fountain and more. Register with Ed Wirt. For more information, see Christy Rickard.
 
Fair Parking!
The Wayne County Fair is less than a month away! One of Oak Chapel’s largest fundraisers is managing the parking lots at East of Chicago Pizza and Swift Auto Parts during the Fair. This activity gives us great visibility in the community, but it also requires lots of volunteers. If you are interested in helping with this venture, please contact Christy Rickard.
 
Rally Day – Puppets of Grace
Mark your calendars now! The Puppets of Grace will return to Oak Chapel UMC for our annual Rally Day on Sunday, September 14. Children of all ages will appreciate this award-winning troupe’s show and message. Invite your friends and neighbors to this fun and inspiring event!
 
Service within our Congregation
The Nominations and Leadership Development Committee has begun its work of praying and discerning who might be willing to serve in a leadership capacity at Oak Chapel in 2015. On our Sunday worship attendance slips you will have an opportunity to indicate your willingness to serve in the following areas. If you are unable to come to church, please reply to this e-mail with your response.
Staff/Parish Relations — works with pastor and staff to manage the ministry of the congregation
Trustees — responsible for the church building, grounds and other assets
Finance — oversees the financial aspects of the church including giving, bills, and audits
Outreach — encourages the church to move beyond the walls through mission and evangelism
Christian Education — responsible for the spiritual development of the congregation
Membership Care — cares for the overall well-being of the congregation
Worship& Music — works with the pastor to plan and implement all aspects of our worship experiences
 
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 8/10 – Heritage Worship at 8:30am
                                    Sunday School at 9:30am
                                    Celebration Worship at 10:30am
Monday, 8/11 – Nominating Committee at 6:00pm
                                    Finance Committee at 7:00pm
Thursday, 8/14 – History Scrapbooking at 6:30pm
                                    Christian Education Committee at 7:00pm
                                    4-H at 7:00pm
Friday, 8/15 – ACORN NEWSLETTER DEADLINE
Saturday, 8/16 – Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
                                    Back to School Bash at 4:00pm
 
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