Hill Church News THE NEWSLETTER OF ASYLUM HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

Helping people grow in faith and love as disciples of Jesus

VOLUME 71 | ISSUE 11DECEMBER 2016

IN THIS ISSUE

UPCOMING WORSHIP 2

IN GENERAL 4

MUSIC & ARTS 7

ADULT EDUCATION 8

MEMBER ENGAGEMENT 9

OUTREACH & COMMUNITY 10

CHILDREN & FAMILIES 12

YOUTH & TEENS 14

TRANSITIONS 15

HIGHLIGHTS 16

See “Fear” pg. 4

Fear Not! by Rev. Matt Laney

In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid…’ (Luke 2:8-9)

Isn’t is striking that fear was the topic of the very first Christmas Eve sermon? It was preached by an angel hovering over a field outside Bethlehem to a tiny con-gregation of shepherds shaking in their sandals, blinking into the bright stadium lights of heaven at a million singing UFOs: Do not be afraid!

We’ve heard this message before. And not just in the Christmas story. We’ve heard it hundreds of times in Scripture.

When God called Abraham and Sarah out of retirement to do some nation-build-ing, God said, “Don’t be afraid.”

God said to Hagar in the wilderness, “Do not be afraid.” To Jacob, Moses, and Joshua: God said, “Do not be afraid.” To Ruth, Deborah, David, Elijah; Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jeremiah, God first says to them: “Do not be afraid.” To both Mary and Joseph, “Do not be afraid.” To newly recruited disciples, to the women at the empty tomb, Jesus said, “Do not be afraid.” To Paul in prison and to John on Patmos came the same message, “Do not be afraid.”

In fact, there are enough Bible verses about living a fearless life to have a dif-ferent verse, for every day of the year, and then some. Based on that, you might conclude the world of the Bible was a fearful and frightening place on a daily basis … even at Christmas.

Thank You Note From Donna ManocchioBeloveds, my heart is filled with gratitude for each of you who were present on November 13 for my final Sunday in worship leadership. What a joy it was to praise God together, to receive the glorious gift of music, reflect on the comfort and the call of the gospel in our lives, and feast together on communion. The party was a marvelous celebration, including Italian cookies! And I am overwhelmed with the beauti-ful tributes and your generosity in presenting me the photograph from Lenny Foster and the donation to Hands on Hartford in my name. The photo is going to have a special place in my new home office; and through Hands on Hartford, others will feel your love and care, espe-cially in these difficult and stressful times, as needs are on the rise in our city. What a blessing it has been to be the body of Christ together! Please know that you remain forever in my heart and in my prayers, and I trust that God has a future full of hope and promise for us all.

If you were not able to make a donation and would still like to contribute to Hands on Hartford in Donna’s name, please send it to: Hands on Hartford, 55 Bartholomew Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106.

2 For a complete list of events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, please visit ahcc.org.

Asylum Hill CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH814 Asylum Ave., Hartford, CT 06105-2892

Ph: 860.525.5696 | Fax: 860.525.3457www.ahcc.org | e-mail: info@ahcc.org

The Hill Church News USPS245-160 is published one time per month (every six weeks during June, July and August) by Asylum Hill Congregational Church. Periodical postage paid at Hartford, CT.

Items for publication must reach the office by noon on or before the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Please submit items to Rhonda Mitchell, Communications Manager, at the above address OR rmitchell@ahcc.org

Postmaster Send address changes to Hill Church News at the above address.

Worship Services Sundays at 9:00 & 10:15amSunday morning services are recorded. Ser-mons are posted on our website at ahcc.org Church Leadership Rev. Matthew Laney, Senior Minister Rev. Erica A. Thompson, Assoc. Minister Jack A. Pott, Director of Music & Arts Susan Carroll, Organist Helena Carvalho, Director of Operations Rev. Mia Douglas, Director of Discipleship Marcie Jackson, Dir. of Children & Family Min. Kara Price, Youth Director Holly DeYoung, Moderator Bart Halloran, Vice Moderator

Advent, Christmas & Epiphany

Advent Devotional Wolves and Lambs: Advent Devotional 2016 from the UCC Stillspeaking Writers’ Group is a collection of fresh, unique daily devotionals that can be used each day of Advent in individual or group settings. FREE in Drew Hall while supplies last. Angel Tree For many years, members and friends of AHCC become angels during the holiday season by purchasing a gift for children and youth in our community and in the city of Hartford, and you are invited to do so again this year! Please see page 11 for more details.

Saturday, December 3, 11:00am – 2:00pmNew Life: A Short Retreat for Women“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, she is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold the new has come.” - 2 Corinthians 5:17Advent is a season of preparation and expectation as we anticipate Jesus’ birth. It is also a season during which we busy ourselves with preparations for family celebrations and set expectations for the year ahead. Join us for a short retreat where we will take some time to unwind and discover how we may prepare for newness and change in our own lives. We will begin our time together with brunch and continue with fellowship and conversation, meditation and writing, and a creative gratitude exercise. This short retreat is being sponsored and fa-cilitated by the Women’s Spirituality and Fellowship committee. Please sign up for the retreat at the Member Engagement table in Drew Hall so that we might adequately prepare for brunch.

Sunday, December 4, 9:00 & 10:15am worship servicesSecond Sunday of Advent: PeaceOn this special Sunday, the chancel will be filled with donated poinsettias which will be delivered to church members and shut-ins in the community. Music will be provided by the youth choir, sanctuary choir and youth soloist, Hannah Rowland. Rev. Matthew Laney preaching. Children’s Christmas Store, 9:30am – 12:30pm | Twichell Room For over thirty years, AHCC’s Children’s Christmas Store has given the church’s youngest members the opportunity to experience the joys of giving in a non-commercial and God-centered environment. Wrapped, modestly priced gifts (ranging from $0.50 - $5.00) are available for purchase.

Middle School Christmas Party, 10:45 – 11:30am | Youth Lounge Refreshments welcome!

Monday, December 5, 7:00pm | Service of Remembrance and HealingEach Christmas, we have the opportunity to gather for a service that invites us into the healing presence of God. The service includes prayer, song, and a time of sacred remembrance.

Asylum Hill Congregational Church | www.ahcc.org | 860.525.5696 3

Sunday, December 11Third Sunday of Advent: Joy9:00am This traditional Advent worship focuses on the joy within the Christmas message and the prophesies of Isaiah.

10:15am | Children’s Christmas Pageant And the angel said unto them, “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:9-11. Join us for the retelling of Jesus’ birth through the eyes and voices of our Spirit Hill children. The Children’s Christmas Pageant offers all a chance to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the coming of the Christ child.

High School Christmas Party, 7:00-8:30pm (Yankee Swap and Alumni Reunion!)

Sunday, December 18 | 9:00 & 10:30am (note service time)Fourth Sunday of Advent: LoveThis Festival Worship Sunday is a homecoming for so many as we enter the week of Christmas. Music provided by the sanctuary choir and brass ensemble, featuring John Rutter’s “Gloria.” Come ready to join in the song – and bring a friend! Rev. Matt Laney preaching.

Saturday, December 24 | Christmas Eve Candlelight worship service4:30pm Especially for families with children, but all are welcome to this casual, rambunctious, sacred time of scripture, song, candlelight … and a few surprises! Rev. Erica Thompson leading worship.

8:00 & 11:00pm Rev. Matt Laney brings the message of the birth of the Christ child along with the traditional candlelight services with choir and instrumentalists. The Sanctuary Choir is featured throughout the service in carols and anthems, leading up to our beautiful candlelighting service. Sunday, December 25 | Christmas Day worship service | 10:15am | There is no childcare for this serviceA time to pause, come to the manger, and reflect together on the meaning of Christ’s birth in our lives, as the “Word be-comes flesh and dwells among us.” Rev. Erica Thompson leading worship.

Saturday, December 31 | Watch Night Worship, 5:00pmThis casual, candlelit service provides us the opportunity to review the year that has passed, and prepare our hearts and spirits for the year ahead. Join us for singing, praying, Scripture and fellowship. We will end the evening outside, gath-ered around a small bonfire, with refreshments and conversation. Rev. Erica Thompson leading worship. Sunday, January 1 | One worship service | 10:15am | There is no childcare for this serviceWe celebrate the Epiphany or “revelation” of God in Jesus Christ represented by the Magi who traveled from afar bearing gifts for the new born King of the Jews. Rev. Matt Laney is our preacher with the sacrament of communion offered. Our celebration of Epiphany continues the following weekend with ...

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, January 6, 7 & 8Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival. This annual celebration of Epiphany features great music, beautiful costumes, joyous dancers, live animals and a dramatic retelling of the Christmas story. Tickets: 860.278.0785 or www.ahcc.org

Sunday, January 8 | One worship service | 10:15am | Rev. Erica Thompson preaching.

Advent, Christmas & Epiphany

4 For a complete list of events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, please visit ahcc.org.

And you’d be right.

Luke starts the Christmas story off on a frightful note by invoking the name “Caesar Augustus,” the emperor who decreed that all the world should be registered, a head count. And folks knew they’d better line up and get their heads counted if they wanted to keep their heads attached to their shoulders. The name of Quirinius, governor of Syria, was another fright-ening character. His name struck fear in the hearts of anyone who knew of him. And then there’s Herod, King of Judea who called himself Herod “the Great,” because he was grandiose, insecure, paranoid. He ordered the slaughter of all children under two years old because of a rumor started by some well-meaning foreign astrol-ogers looking for a new-born king.

It was a violent and dangerous time. The value of human life was at an all-time low. Infant mortality was at a record high. Clean water was hard to come by. Food was scarce. Disease was rampant.

Mary and Joseph carried all of those fears with them to Joseph’s home-town of Bethlehem. And more. Joseph’s family had arranged a mar-riage to Mary, a nice Jewish girl from a good family, but before they got married she turns up pregnant, and now she’s about to meet the parents … nine months along.

When Mary and Joseph arrive, the family home is so full of relatives there’s no room for them – or at least that’s what they’re told. You know how it is when family gets packed together under one roof and the passive aggressive behavior starts

flying. Maybe Mary and Joseph got some of that: “I’m so sorry Joe,” said one elder, “but the only place left for you and your *ahem* very pregnant friend is out with the animals. Don’t mind the smell.”

From the oppressive power of the Empire to the emotional power of Joseph’s family, Mary and Joseph had every reason to be afraid. In other words, the first Christmas was short on that warm-glowing-Christmas-feeling and good cheer; it was not the most wonderful time of the year.

It’s a scene of oppression, fear, rejection and terror – until the angel showed up and gave that first Christ-mas sermon: Fear not! For I bring you good news of great joy for all people – and then, and only then, did Christmas become a story about God entering the darkness and fear and oppression and rejection and loss and loneliness and terror.

That is the true surprise of Christmas. God showing up in the most vulner-able way possible – as an at-risk baby born to a couple with everything stacked against them. It’s almost as if God wants to show there is no fearful reality that can’t be managed and overcome … that’s what causes angels to sing for joy.

So if, this holiday season, you find yourself looking at our country or the world and feeling more fearful than full of good cheer, you might be more in tune with the original Christmas than you may think. If so, consider this:

Remember that moment in the car-toon special A Charlie Brown Christ-

mas when Linus recites the angel’s words to the shepherds, Fear not: for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

Something powerful happens in that moment. When Linus quotes the an-gel and says “FEAR NOT,” he drops his blanket. The only time in the his-tory of peanuts that Linus ever sepa-rates from his security blanket is right when he says, “FEAR NOT.” And his face becomes radiant, filled with joy! Perhaps there’s a lesson in that.

When we drop our fear, drop our blanket, we make room for joy. And joy is an act of fierce defiance in a fear mongering world. Everyone has fear. “Fear not!” Doesn’t mean we cannot have fear. It means we do allow fear to have us.

God arrives to tell us again and again: “Do not be afraid! Do not be over-come by your fears. Do not let those fears control you, steal your life, steal your soul.”

One candle is all you need to banish the darkness. One angel was prob-ably all that was needed to deliver the first Christmas sermon to those shepherds. But God sent the whole choir of heaven and lit up the sky. On Christmas Eve, when we light our candles, it is as much an act of faith and joy as it is an act of defiance, a proclamation backed by the heavenly host, that whatever fears we have, our fears will never have us.

In General

“Fear” cont. from pg. 1

Asylum Hill Congregational Church | www.ahcc.org | 860.525.5696 5

Hey Mom, What Happened to the Donuts!?! by Suzanne Bourdeaux

As a mom of two kids at AHCC, I know full well that the name of the gathering in Drew Hall after Sunday services might as well be Donut Hour rather than Coffee Hour. We diligently observe the one-donut rule, or at least the one-donut-at-a-time rule, and it seems my two have perfected the art of being in the right place at the right time when Kathleen comes around at the end with that extra bowl. What then are we parents to say when there are no bowls of donuts available due to recent budget reductions approved by our volunteer leaders? Do we deflect the question and move on with our morning, or take the opportunity to encourage some thoughtful reflection on what the donuts’ absence represents? I encourage us all to try the latter, and to that end humbly offer these sugges-tions of how to respond when those big questioning eyes turn to you and a little voice asks, “Hey Mom, what happened to the donuts?” Try this:“The church is very careful about how we spend money, and we have less money available this year for things like donuts. We need that money for more important things, like helping people in the community, or running Spirit Hill. I know donuts are yummy and it’s nice to be able to snack on them after church, but we decided to save that money and find another way to use it.” Or this:“Just like other families, our church family has a budget and a limited amount of resources. We need to find ways to do as much as we can with the resources we have available. Turns out, the same money that buys donuts can be saved and used for other things. What do you think is a good use of our donut money?” Or maybe this:“The church has big ideas about all the ways we’d like to help and serve people in Hartford and around the world. We had to make a hard choice and ended up giving up something we like so that we might have more to give others. Does that remind you of anyone you’ve learned about in Spirit Hill?” Whatever your approach, I hope the conversation leads to some understanding and insights, which kids are remarkably skilled at bringing out when we least expect it.

Peace Pole

On her last Sunday in worship prior to her retirement, Donna presented the church with a parting gift of a Peace Pole. A Peace Pole contains the prayer, “May Peace Prevail On Earth,” in four languages: English, Spanish, Hebrew, and Arabic. These four languages represent four mis-sion initiatives of AHCC: to the folks in this church and in the Asylum Hill community, to the people in Ecuador, and to Interfaith partnerships with the Jewish and Muslim communities.

Now planted in front of the sanctuary, our Peace Pole joins over 200,000 sites that carry the message of peace in over 180 countries around the world. During her presentation, Donna said “I give this gift in gratitude for all the ways that we have worked for peace together – in conversations, in classes, in actions and partnerships with peacemakers in the city, state, and around the globe. Donna added, “I give you the Peace Pole not so that you will remember me, but rather that you will remember the words and invitation of Jesus when you arrive in the sanctuary and as you depart to live the gospel in the world to become peacemakers.”

6 For a complete list of events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, please visit ahcc.org.

Pastoral Reflections on the Electionby Rev. Matt Laney

Dear Friends,

In the early morning of November 9, a very divisive and difficult election season came to a close. In some ways this presi-dential election was fairly typical. In another way it was unprecedented, and gives all Americans reason for grief, outrage and finally, hope, in the name of God.

Let’s start with what was typical:

• It’s no surprise for half the country to be rejoicing while the other half is deeply disappointed by the outcome. We’ve seen that before.

• It’s typical that both sides had similar concerns – the economy, stalemate in Washington, security and so on … even if they differ on how to address them. No change there.

• It’s not unusual for one candidate to accuse their opponent of being the more dishonest, corrupt, and untrust-worthy. That’s been going on a long time.

• Sadly, it’s not unusual for presidential campaigns to be awash in negativity.

What is unusual and perhaps unprecedented, is the hostility and cruelty we endured, words and behaviors that are the ANTITHESIS of what we teach children about kindness and civility, not bullying, how boys are to treat girls, that our country is an inclusive place for all people regardless of race, religion, creed, nationality, gender or who you love, all that our Veterans served to protect and defend, took a beating in this election season. As Americans, as people of faith, we need to take a very strong stand whenever that happens, and especially when it comes from one running for, and elected to, the high-est office in the land.

What is also unusual is the high number of people who are not just disappointed with the outcome, but in real pain, fear-ful and traumatized, be they women and girls who have experienced sexual aggression, Muslims, immigrants and many people of color. This election and its aftermath has emboldened some of the ugliest and most dangerous elements of our country. I don’t know of an election when that’s happened before in quite this way. That is a reality we must all consider and learn from even as we seek to comfort and protect those who feel unsafe and vulnerable.

Now hear me especially on this: no matter who you are or who you voted for, you are welcome at AHCC. The reasons and realities behind each and every vote are complex, varied and personal and I think we all can appreciate that. Regardless of how you voted, we have some opportunities as citizens and as Christians.

As citizens, we have an obligation to respect the democratic process and give the president-elect the opportunity to gov-ern well, which includes holding him accountable to standards of basic decency, civility, the rule of law and so on. If you are unhappy with the result, remember that all presidents have a boss. And that boss is YOU! We the people. And like all presidents, the next one will need our prayers.

As a Christian, this election has sharpened my view that the urgent spiritual work of our time is to unmask and dismantle the racism, sexism and xenophobia that exists in our culture. Not simply because things were all around the president-elect’s run, but because those things are in me and I need to be healed along with our culture. I believe that is the central task of discipleship in these days. On November 6, Youth Sunday, our young people reminded us that celebrating diversity, rejecting racism, fighting for the powerless, and caring for the earth is what it means to be the church and a follower of Jesus. I hope we can all unite and do that work together by the grace of God.

Asylum Hill Congregational Church | www.ahcc.org | 860.525.5696 7

Boar’s Head Festival Tickets on Sale NowTickets for the 2017 Boar’s Head Festival (January 6, 7 & 8) are on sale via phone (860.278.0785) or in person at AHCC Monday - Friday 9:00am - 3:00pm.

Make-Up Crew Volunteers NeededThe Boar’s Head Make-up crew is in significant need of additional helpers. No theatre make-up experi-ence needed, we’ll teach you what you need to know! To volunteer, please contact Nancy Grandin at nkgrandin@hotmail.com

Ladies and Gentlemen: Start Your Ovens! With a reputation for serving delicious homemade goodies, AHCC needs your special homemade cookies, brownies and bars (regular and gluten free) for the approximately 4000 people who will attend the Boar’s Head Festival performances! Whether you bake a few extra dozen when you’re baking Christmas cookies and drop them off for the AHCC freezer, or bring them in freshly baked the week of the Festival, we’re delighted to feature them at the receptions!Drop off the cookies in the AHCC kitchen anytime through January 8.

Needed: Boars’ Head Festival Reception HostsStill looking for a way to volunteer with for Boar’s Head that only involves a few hours with an enthusiastic group of people? We have 12 openings for members who would enjoy setting up the cookie/sandwich trays and serv-ing punch to our appreciative Boar’s Head audience.

Dates still open include:Friday, 1/6 at 7:30pm (2 slots)Saturday 1/7 at 6:30pm (5 slots)Sunday 1/8 at 5:00pm (4 slots)

Email Jennifer Geisler (jjgeisler@comcast.net) to sign up!

Music & Arts

8 For a complete list of events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, please visit ahcc.org.

Step Up Step Out Sponsors Beading WorkshopA GIFT FOR GIVING, KEEPING AND BENEFITTING MUAV

Sun, Dec. 11 | Youth Classroom following 10:15am service

For the past few years, members of Step Up, Step Out: End the Culture of Violence (SUSO) have been meeting periodically to make paper beads, creating interesting and funky necklaces, and enjoying each other’s fellowship. We have been selling these artistic creations at church events and to-date have donated our proceeds to Mothers United Against Violence (MUAV). MUAV is a faith-based voice of hope bringing compassion to grieving families and promoting justice through advocacy in response to violence.

For our December 11 SUSO meeting, we are inviting church members to join us for an after church workshop where you can create your own “work of art” and either keep it or make it a Christmas gift for someone special. We will have kits available that can be completed, enhanced or recreated with different bead choices. Once you have decided, a member of our “bead team” will help you string your piece and secure it with a clasp.

We will also offer instructions on making and using Protestant prayer beads. These beads are a valuable way to focus our minds on prayer in a scattered and noisy world.

There is a signup sheet in Drew Hall at the Member Engagement table. The cost of the kit is $10.00, paid by either cash or check. Light refreshments will be served. Older children who wish to “bead” must be accompanied by a partici-pating adult. Teens are welcome to join us.

For more information contact:

Nancy Kirchmyer, Karen Dibala, Beverly Matthews or susoahcc@gmail.com

The mission of Step Up, Step Out: End the Culture of Violence (SUSO) is to stand with and for victims of violence through education, outreach and advocacy to transform our society’s culture of violence. As a community of faith we will practice and promote nonviolence and loving our neighbors as ourselves.

Final Evening of the Interfaith Bible Study

Weds, Dec. 14, Genesis 32 JACOB BECOMES ISRAEL

AHCC

LED BY REV. MATT LANEY, AHCC AND RABBI MICHAEL PINCUS, CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL

Friends and members of AHCC have an exciting opportunity to explore Scripture with friends and members of Congregation Beth Israel. The study sessions will include brief pre-sentations by Rev. Laney and Rabbi Pincus followed by dialogue on the texts, which you are encouraged to read in advance.

Tattoos on the Heart: An Advent Evening Conversation with Gregory Boyle, SJ

Wed, Dec. 7, 7:00pm

What might our lives be like if we could find joy in loving others and in being loved uncon-ditionally? Father Gregory Boyle has seen firsthand the transformation of love in his work at Homeboy Industries, a gang-intervention program in Los Angeles. His reflections on faith, community, grace and hope are a perfect preparation for the coming of Emmanuel. Several

copies of Father Boyle’s book are available in the church office for borrowing prior to the event; they will also be available for sale at the event.

Adult Education

Asylum Hill Congregational Church | www.ahcc.org | 860.525.5696 9

Listen to TED TalksOnce a month, on AHCC website and Facebook

TED (Technology, Entertainment, and Design) is a series of conferences that occur around the globe with the tagline: Ideas Worth Spreading. Speakers from varied backgrounds share stories of their lives and while they don’t always mention God, many of the talks (usually 8 - 12 minutes long) touch upon the joys and costs of discipleship. Once a month, a new TED talk will be posted with Scripture and questions for an online conversation about life and faith. If you have access to a computer, you can join the conversation!

Men’s Ministry

Breakfast meetingFirst Saturdays, 8:00amRistorante Piatti, 1001

Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury

All men of the church are welcome at our next meeting on November 5 as we continue to focus on our four pillars: Fellowship, Scripture, Service, and Activities.

Rev. Matt Laney will continue to lead our biblical discussion, which everyone has truly enjoyed while being enlightened. Bring a Bible and $10-15 for breakfast. An open mind and heart (not biblical exper-tise) are the only requirements.

Women’s Prayer Groups

First Thursdays7:00pm | Erica Thompson’s

homeThis group centers on the joys and challenges of living as women of faith in today’s world. We gather in a relaxed and informal setting All women are welcome – come as you are, when you are able.

Tuesday mornings10:00am | AHCC

This group is for women who desire to connect with other women in a faith-ful, laughter-filled, Spirit-drenched community. Each week, we share the joys of our lives, center ourselves around a devotion/spiritual practice and end our time together in prayer. All women are welcome.

A Compassionate Spirit-filled Yoga Practice with a Five Star Recommendationby Kathleen Graham

I was a yoga drop-out for a num-ber of reasons. For the most part, the practice seemed too hard and I didn’t feel that I measured up. That changed for me when I began to attend AHCC’s yoga class taught by Cynthia Wolcott. First and foremost, Cynthia is an amazing yoga teacher and brings a rich and deep spirit to the class which transcends an ordi-nary yoga practice.

As I struggle to unbend this stiff and cranky body of mine and coax it to do what it’s been designed to do, Cynthia’s class has helped me in unexpected and wonderful ways in body, mind and spirit. AHCC has a long tradition of offering yoga as a spiritual practice and I so want it to continue in our church. I encour-age those who might ordinarily be reluctant to try yoga or return to yoga ... to come and take part and feel refreshed.

In difficult times, Tuesday’s 11:30am yoga class at AHCC offers a place to be at peace, feel the exhilaration of caring for our bodies and experience the comfort of Cynthia’s beautiful voice and gentle encouragement. Come and try just one class.

Member Engagement

Put Your Faith into Action: West Middle School Volunteer Resource Center

The West Middle School Volunteer Resource Center continues to accept ap-plications matching student need with volunteer expertise. Opportunities for connection are diverse and multiple levels of volunteer support are available to accommodate volunteer schedules. A completed application and successful background check is required. Please contact Rev. Mia Douglas for an applica-tion or more information on discipleship opportunities at West Middle School.

10 For a complete list of events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, please visit ahcc.org.

Outreach, Community & Volunteering

Refugee Resettlement Team Ready to Welcome Second FamilyJesus said, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)

The AHCC Refugee Resettlement Team is gearing up to support Catholic Charities in welcoming a second refugee fam-ily to Hartford at the end of November. We have been busy collecting household goods and furniture and, thanks to the generosity of this congregation, have all that we need to furnish an apartment.

The Mugambwa family is originally from Congo Kinshasa although the adults have spent the last 13 years in a refugee camp in Burundi. The adults (Hassan and Zakumwilo) are in their 40s and the children (Sagad and Lukelwa) are 8 and 10 years of age. They will be accompanied by another family member for whom we do not yet have information. We under-stand that this Muslim family speaks both Kurundi and some French and has some literacy. We are looking forward to meeting them and helping them to settle here and begin a new life.

There are many Congolese in Hartford and it is likely that this family will stay. The apartment they will be moving into is in the same building that our first family lived in. There are several other Congolese families in the building which will be helpful.

The housing team will spring into action right away and the transportation and mentoring team will be busy in the weeks and months after their arrival helping with medical appointments, shopping and cultural orientation. Kara Price and the youth group will be helping to supply the apartment with food for the first few days.

Our partner, Catholic Charities, has also asked us for any leads to entry level jobs. We expect both parents to be employ-able. Please let us know if you have any ideas or information about employment opportunities.

If you are not already on the volunteer list and would like to join a team you can contact Jane Torrey (education), Heather Wolfe Taylor (housing) or Lowell Fewster (transportation and mentoring). Team leaders will be contacting volunteers on their teams about opportunities and timing.

Contact information: Jane Torrey at torrey.jane@gmail.com, Heather Wolfe Taylor at oulinguist@gmail.com, or Lowell Fewster at lfewster@earthlink.net.

AHCC Accepts Hope and Help Award from Catholic Charities

On Thursday, October 27, on behalf of the entire congregation, the Refu-gee Resettlement Team accepted the Help and Hope Award from Catholic Charities at their annual meeting at St. Thomas Seminary. The award was presented with the following words:

Asylum Hill Congregational Church (AHCC) in Hartford was our first formal partner which resulted from a phone call from the church to ask what they could do to assist with the Syrian Refugee crisis. This was followed by several meetings with members of the Affinity Group of AHCC and staff of MRIS. The church partner was instrumental in several aspects of the Resettlement & Placement functions for a family of three; including donation of furniture and household items, apartment set-up, and assisting with transportation. In the absence of the ESL coordinator for about one month, the team accepted the challenge to teach the ESL class without any hesitancy. A task they took on very graciously! The team has continued teaching ESL under the leadership of Jane Torrey. Then when there was a challenge of childcare while the parents were learning English, Jane asked for volunteers to sit with the children and teach them as well. From decorating the ESL classroom to agreeing to assist with the resettlement of another refugee family, this team of church volunteers truly represents the spirit of providing help and creating hope.

Some members of AHCC’s Refugee Resettlement Affinity Group accept the Hope and Help Award

photo: Richard Napoletano

Asylum Hill Congregational Church | www.ahcc.org | 860.525.5696 11

Be An Angel This Christmas Season!For many years, members and friends of AHCC become angels during the holiday season by purchasing a gift for chil-dren and youth in the community and in the city of Hartford, and you are invited to do so again this year! Beginning on Sunday, November 27, the first Sunday of Advent, the Angel Tree will be up and decorated in Drew Hall. Select one or more ornaments with information about the recipient and their gift wish. Purchase the appropriate gift(s), and place them back under the tree no later than Sunday, December 11. Please remember to wrap your gift and safely secure the ornament onto the package, so the gift can be matched to the correct recipient. When you become an angel this season, others will truly find joy, hope, and blessings!

The Angel Tree project a partnership between AHCC’s Outreach Committee and the following organizations. Please con-tact Rev. Mia Douglas if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.

ConnectiKids, Inc. is an independent, non-profit youth development agency which began in 1978, when volunteers from AHCC and neighborhood corporations came together to provide after-school tutoring for students at West Middle School. The mission of ConnectiKids is to connect Hartford children and youth to their potential by building relationships and providing educational opportunities.

Asylum Hill Learning Zone/Baby Academy offers a free ten-week parenting education class for pregnant women and fathers in the Asylum Hill neighborhood. The program is offered twice a year in fall and spring at the church. Topics include child safety, nutrition, health and immunizations, and childbirth education. Breakfast, lunch, and childcare are provided during classes.

Asylum Hill Family Center (AHFC) strives to improve the school readiness and success of Asylum Hill’s young children from birth to eight years old. AHFC believes that 1) parents are a child’s first and most influential nurturer, teacher, and advocate; 2) strong supportive families are the key to healthy and successful young children; and 3) families need access to information and supportive services.

Hartford Juvenile Detention Center provides a continuum of services for children and youth pending court hearings, judicial dispositions of cases, hospitalization, or while awaiting placement with a new family. These children are unable to be home for the holidays. The goal of this program is to make the best of an unfortunate situation by showing love, care, and providing gifts so the kids can enjoy the holidays.

Youth Challenge of Connecticut has been operating as a residential outreach center since 1970, for women and men recovering from drug addiction. The program emphasizes personal and social development in a sharing and caring envi-ronment. The healing process begins with a unique combination of acceptance, discipline, and structure. Youth Challenge offers an atmosphere of growth through biblical counseling and work-study.

Covenant to Care for Children is a nonprofit agency with a 25 year history of working with AHCC and other faith communities to meet the needs of abused, neglected and impoverished children and teens in Hartford and surrounding communities. A statewide network of volunteers, donors, and businesses assist to foster nurturing, caring environments, and relationships for children and youth, by providing them with basic material needs and mentoring relationships.

Trinity Academy is an independent tuition-free elementary school serving students and their families in the Hartford area with a purpose of providing a nurturing and inclusive community of learning with a focus on academics, the arts, literacy, and critical thinking.

Money Raised to Help Land and Water ProtectorsThank you to everyone who contributed to the youth’s efforts to raise money for the land and water protectors in North Dakota. We raised $900, which will be donated to the Spirit of Peace UCC Church in South Dakota, ear-marked for winter supplies they have been providing.

12 For a complete list of events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, please visit ahcc.org.

Children & Families

Important December Dates

December 4: Annual Christmas Store for grades PK-5

December 11: Christmas Pageant (10:15am)

*December 24: Family Christmas Eve Worship (4:30pm)

*December 25: Christmas Day Wor-ship (10:15am)

*January 1: New Year’s Day Worship (10:15am)

January 8: No Spirit Hill lessons (Childcare available)

January 15: Spirit Hill lessons resume.

*Please note, childcare for infants-preschool will not be available on these dates.

Advent Blessings

Advent is a busy time for families who are juggling so many commitments to family, friends, schools and their church. Here are some simple things that fami-lies can do together to share God’s love during Advent.

Feed Your Neighbors:• Bake a little extra when you do your holiday baking, and share the extra

with a neighbor.

• Collect food and health/beauty items to donate to our “Table to Table” col-lection on December 4 or donate to another area food collection.

Feed the God’s creatures:• Gather pinecones, roll them in nut butter or sunflower butter then in bird-

seed, and hang from a tree in your yard.

• Collect pet food and toys or old towels and deliver to a nearby animal shelter.

Feed Your Soul:• Surprise someone with a phone call or have your children draw them a

Christmas picture and send it in the mail.• Take a “Glow-Walk:” an evening walk with your family to see your neigh-

bors Christmas decorations.• Share the Advent and Christmas scriptures with your children by the glow

of your Christmas tree or candles. One scripture to share is Luke 21:1-19

As hard as it is at this time of the year to slow down, take a minute of Sabbath to breathe in, breathe out, and enjoy the beauty of the Advent Season.

Advent BlessingThe Advent story of hope and mystery,

anticipation, preparation,a kingdom of this world and the next,

and a king appearing when we least expect.

Heaven touching earth,the footsteps of the divine

walking dusty roads as once they did in Eden,and a people, searching for a Saviour,

and walking past the stable.

Open eyes and hearts, that this might bean Advent of hope to the world.

Blessings,Marcie Jackson, Dir. of Children & Family Ministries

Prayer from: faithandworship.com

Asylum Hill Congregational Church | www.ahcc.org | 860.525.5696 13

Children’s Christmas Store at AHCCSun, Dec. 4, 9:30am - 12:30pm

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year ...” As Advent approaches, it can be challeng-ing to help our children remember the true meaning of Christmas while surrounded with the commercial chaos of the season. To that end, we invite all Spirit Hill families to join us for AHCC Children’s Christmas Store event!

Without competition or commercial pressure, children are able to shop for gifts for their loved ones in a supportive environment un-der the guidance of adult volunteers. CFMC members and volunteers have assembled an impressive range of modestly priced gifts ranging from $.50 - $5.00. Gifts are pre-wrapped and there will also be gift wrapping available on site.

This year, in the spirit of giving with open hearts, please consider a donation of new hats and gloves for our “Hearts and Hands Tree.” These precious necessi-ties will provide warmth to those in need within our surrounding community.

Adult volunteers are needed to assist with set-up, organization/working in the store and cleanup after the event. Please consider offering the gift of time to our children during this blessed season. Volunteers may contact Marcie Jackson, mjackson@ahcc.org for information.

Children’s Christmas Pageant

Sun, Dec. 11, 10:15am

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. - Luke 2:9-11

Join us for the retelling of Jesus’ birth through the eyes and voices of our Spirit Hill children. The Children’s Christmas Pageant offers all a chance to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the coming of the Christ child.

Shoeboxes on Their Way

Thank you to all those who participated in our 2nd Annual Operation Christmas Child shoebox packing. Twenty boxes were delivered to Win-tonbury Church in Bloomfield and will join the approximately 10,000 boxes collected from CT churches of all denominations that will travel across the ocean to children in need in places like Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq.

14 For a complete list of events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, please visit ahcc.org.

Youth & Teens

Out of the Mouths of Babes: Excerpts from Youth Sunday’s Sermonby Kara Price, Youth Director

“All my life, I have struggled with racism. Growing up, everyone I encountered seemed to make a point to mention how I am not white, that I am Asian. In the beginning, I wasn’t sure how to react, or what to say back. What was wrong with being Asian? My mom has always said that I am sensitive, and when I was younger, someone going out of their way to mention that I was Asian seemed to antagonize me the most. But growing up within an open and accepting community like Asylum Hill, and just maturing in general, teaches you to adapt. It seemed to make me less vulnerable to those things that made me so self conscience before. I know I cannot ask for the world to be cleansed of racism, and for the idea of race to be eliminated so that it could not be used negatively, and yet I find it important to recognize that no one should have to worry about the shape of their eyes, color of their skin, or the way they talk. These false stereotypes do not define me, do not define the type of person I am, the quality of my character, or what I strive to make of my life. Being the church involves rejecting racism. By using my own personal encounters with racial prejudice, I have been able to witness the strength of people willing to stand up to those who make racially insensitive remarks, exhibiting a kind of courage and mercy that truly shows the power of God through the humanity of people. Those individuals who take on the challenge of being an advocate for a cause that uproots the foundations of a wrongful belief such as racism, carry around the love and ideals of what it means to be the Church. I challenge you all to stand up for a belief that is being oppressed. Do not let those simple minded people, who are unfit to judge you, influence your decision making or challenge the person you strive to be. Just know that if these oppressors, like those who have judged me due to my ethnicity, are the insecure ones, grasping at the most irrelevant of straws to make sure that I do not succeed. Put your faith in God, and know that you will come out stronger than those who attempt to make you feel inferior.” - Alex Kim, gr. 11

“I believe that embracing diversity is a huge part of “being the church,” and this includes diversity of the mind. I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by a large (and loud) family my whole life. It’s clear to me that within my fam-ily there are different opinions and beliefs, and sometimes this leads to some lengthy discussions while eating a plate of chicken parm. Sometimes the only solution is to agree to disagree. I have never seen anyone be disrespectful towards one another or hurtful due to a difference in opinion. Sitting down watching the news and seeing interactions in social me-dia, I can’t say I’ve seen the same respect. Agreeing to disagree is an art that some people never quite master. A division has formed between people because of the inability to agree to disagree. You may ask, how does this relate to being the church? And what does it have to do with teenagers? And the answer is simple: by being able to talk to people without insulting them, and to have a different opinion than your friend across the table, can only better a community such as this church, and effectively create a more accepting environment for future generations to develop their own opinions. Embracing diversity isn’t just about race, sexual orientation, religion, and gender identity, it’s accepting that the person in the pew next to you may have a different opinion than you on some major topics. It’s having faith and humility that God created us all differently, with different opinions to make this world better and balanced. We shouldn’t unfriend and dismiss people for this, we should talk and learn from one another. But most of all, we should respect each other. Alex and I used to fight like an old married couple about games at recess and crayons in the crayon box. We still disagree on things, and yes at times we still argue like we used to (just ask Kara). But we remain friends and we remain respectful. That is embracing diversity to the fullest, and that is being the Church. “- Zoe Pierce, gr. 11

Free T-shirt!All youth grades 6-12, see youth director, Kara Price for your free “Be the Church” T-shirt. We will wear these shirts to all

service opportunities. There are a variety of colors and sizes to choose from.

Asylum Hill Congregational Church | www.ahcc.org | 860.525.5696 15

December Youth Events

Sun, Dec. 410:45-11:30am - Middle School Youth Group Christmas Party - feel free to bring snacks to share!

7:00-8:30pm - High School Youth Group Angel Tree Wrapping Party - bring any gifts your family has purchased

Sun, Dec. 11No Middle School Youth Group until Jan. 157:00-8:30pm - High School Youth Group Christmas Party and Alumni Reunion - bring a wrapped gift of $5 or less for the Yankee Swap!

Fri, Dec. 16 - Sat, Dec. 17High School Lock-in

December Youth Service Opportunities

Fri, Dec. 16 4:00-6:00pm Volunteer at West Middle School after school program for K-1

Sun, Dec. 18 10:00-11:30am BINGO at Betty Knox ApartmentsRSVP to kprice@ahcc.org and wear your “Be the Church” t-shirt! All youth gr. 6-12 welcome.

P.S. For up-to-date infor-mation about all AHCC youth events, please visit ahcc.org/learning-serving/youth-ministry

Transitions

Dear friends,

We grieve this announcement from Joan even as we celebrate her retirement and time with Denny touring the country in style! Her years of faithful service and unfailing good cheer, and boundless love in God’s name, have touched countless people in the church. You might be wondering who could possibly take Joan’s place! It won’t be easy, but our interim associate minister (who lands in January) will work with me and others to find someone who is called to sup-port our ministries of care. If you have ideas or recommendations, please don’t hesitate to share.

For now, join me in thanking Joan and Denny and asking Gods continued bless-ing upon them.

Matt

Dear Friends,

It is with mixed emotions that as of January 1, 2017, I am retiring from my position in the Caring Ministry after 15 wonderful years on the staff of the most wonderful church in the world. I have enjoyed every minute of my time working with our great church staff, minister-ing to our members, who are at an age or infirmity where regular attendance at church is difficult. Such cherished folks who have helped to build this church to what it has become, should be loved and cared for wher-ever they may be. I, along with many other dedicated volunteers, have made every effort to accomplish that task.

A dream that my husband Denny and I have had for a long time was to one day own a motor home. That dream has come true. We have always been avid travelers and have visited many places in the world, but have not seen that much of our own country. Re-member the TV show “On the Road with Charles Karalt?“ I loved that show and have wanted to visit the hidden treasures that he did. Now, with this motor home, that dream can become a reality. While traveling, I plan to write a blog called “On the Road with the Happy Hoppers,” to document our explorations.

Extended periods of time away are not conducive to my work at the church, but when we are at home, I plan to continue to be involved where needed with this special minis-try that is so dear to my heart.

I extend my love and blessings to all of you.

Faithfully,

Joan Hopper

16 For a complete list of events, programs, and volunteer opportunities, please visit ahcc.org.

Highlights

Rev. Matt Laney hosts an interfaith group from Hartford Seminary where he serves on the Board of Trustees. The group felt very fortunate to visit on Youth Sunday, Nov. 6 and receive the message of love, hope and inclusion.

On Sunday, Nov. 13 we celebrated Rev. Donna Manocchio as she retires from the ministry. Pictured above left are Donna, daughters Rose and Kathryn, and husband Dave Lewis.