1 ST. JOHN UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 204 Seventh Street ~ Lincoln, Illinois 62656 217-732-6957 E-mail address: [email protected] | Website: stjohnucclincolnillinois.com “Letting God’s love shine Us to the Community We Serve” Rev. Laurie Hill Designated Pastor Darlene Begolka Office Manager Volume 50, No. 8 August 2019 COFFEE HOUR AT 9:15 A.M. MORNING WORSHIP AT 10:00 A.M. Our Church’s walking group, known as The Jubilant Feet meet on Monday mornings at 8:00 a.m. and are walking at Kickapoo Creek Park. (At the church in inclement weather.) Everyone is welcome! Articles for the September 2019 newsletter should be in the Church Office by August 19 th . The Church Council has established a Cody Conrady Benefit Special Offering Fund that people may contribute to. SPECIAL MUSIC IS NEEDED Special music is still needed for our worship services in August. If you would like to provide that Special Music or know someone who might, please contact either Pastor Laurie or the church office.
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ST. JOHN UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
204 Seventh Street ~ Lincoln, Illinois 62656 217-732-6957
E-mail address: [email protected] | Website: stjohnucclincolnillinois.com “Letting God’s love shine Us to the Community We Serve”
Rev. Laurie Hill Designated Pastor Darlene Begolka Office Manager Volume 50, No. 8 August 2019
COFFEE HOUR AT 9:15 A.M. MORNING WORSHIP AT 10:00 A.M.
Our Church’s walking group, known as The Jubilant Feet meet on Monday mornings at 8:00 a.m. and are walking at Kickapoo Creek Park. (At the church in inclement weather.) Everyone is welcome!
Articles for the September 2019 newsletter should be in the Church Office by August 19th.
The Church Council has established a Cody Conrady Benefit Special Offering Fund that people may contribute to.
SPECIAL MUSIC IS NEEDED Special music is still needed for our worship services in August. If you would like to provide that Special Music or know someone who might, please contact either Pastor Laurie or the church office.
FROM OUR DESIGNATED PASTOR… Dear Friends, When I was a younger pastor, a seasoned pastor mentored me that most church conflicts fall into two categories: Who belongs? and Who’s in charge? From my now longer tenure as a pastor, it’s amazing how many fall into these two camps. Even at General Synod, the most controversial resolution was about who belongs in the United Church of Christ. We have “designations” in the UCC which congregations can identify with, which becomes a part of their ministry. The designations are many, but the two in conflict at General Synod were the “Faithful and Welcoming” (F&W) group and the “Open and Affirming” (ONA) group. The conflict wasn’t if we should have these two designations but instead, “Who gets to have space in the exhibition hall?” Some in the F&W group apparently were unkind in the exhibition hall to those in the ONA group during a previous General Synod. At least that’s what we were led to believe. This led those who were insulted to make a resolution that the F&W group should not be welcome in the exhibition hall.
First let me say this issue was tabled. That means that after long debate on the floor of General Synod, the issue was
causing more strife and division, so someone (bless their hearts!) moved and seconded to table. This motion passed by a strong majority. This way, no one “side” wins. And the other thing that can happen is that the motion can come back in two years at the next General Synod, but not without refinement. I didn’t talk to everyone in the Illinois delegation but I can tell you that those I did talk to, both members of the
ONA and the F&W camp were whole-heartedly in favor that we, as a church, would always uphold our trademark saying: “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here”. . .no matter what! We were almost all happy it was tabled, or we would’ve voted no. Our Conference Minister, Rev. Justo Morales urged us to vote no. Those who were hurt were very compelling about not wanting anyone else to feel excluded by a group in our church. However, this resolution reverse discriminated upon another group in our midst. In effect, the oppressed became the oppressors. Namely, that everyone has a place at the table in our denomination. The act of tabling this motion, in effect, affirmed that no matter who we are. . .we are welcome, both F&W and ONA and everyone else, besides. Many of us believed that perhaps we needed a behavioral covenant for the exhibition hall instead. No one should be cruel or harmful to others. Our faith tradition has been built upon the shoulders of those who value diversity of thought and belief amongst us, still valuing our unity in the meantime. I have served both very conservative churches and very liberal churches in our denomination. Those at the extreme are the hardest to serve. The more on the edge a church gets, the harder it is to find common ground. The congregations who have become ONA does not mean that they are 100% “liberal” or “progressive” any more than it does for a F&W congregation to say they have no one in their midst who is open to the LGBTQ+ community. I love the UCC because of the affirmation of diversity amongst our unity. And what is our unity? Our unity is we believe in God: Creator, Jesus Christ: Redeemer and the Holy Spirit: Sustainer. How we express our beliefs, practice our faith and worship our God is a congregational decision. YAY! We ALL Belong! Our council has chosen to begin the journey of the ONA designation. This is a long, slow, journey of discovery toward “Who Belongs” in our church. If you already feel you are either for
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or against the ONA designation, I pray you will keep an open heart, mind and soul during the process. Patience, kindness, and love will be called upon. Please keep in mind that all throughout the journey: No matter who you are, no matter where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome in the United Church of Christ. Peace! Pastor Laurie
To all our home/facility bound members: I have been "under the weather" of late with what seems to be a stubborn stomach virus. According to the
doctor, I am able to be around healthy people but not those who may be vulnerable to infection, including those who are ill, home bound, etc. Although I normally make summer visits, I haven't been able to do that until I'm cleared of this nasty virus, so I don't "share". Believe me, you don't want this! Please know that as soon as I recover, I will be visiting you and am looking forward to seeing you! It hopefully will just be a few more weeks. As always, although I normally visit quarterly, at any time you can request a visit. I am happy to visit with or without communion. And if you need a visit sooner, if it is possible, I'll wear a mask, use hand sanitizer and I'll be there in a jiffy. Don't hesitate to call! We can visit by phone as well. Pastor Laurie
WHAT MAKES US WHO WE ARE? PART 4:
What happens when a Roman Catholic priest, an Episcopalian priest, a United Church of Christ pastor, and a Presbyterian pastor get together? We aren’t sure either, but we’re going to find out, and you’re invited, too!
As a way to get to know better our neighbors, the clergy of the First Presbyterian Church (USA), the Holy Family Catholic Church, the St. John United Church of Christ, and the Trinity Episcopal Church invite you to attend a four-part conversation in community. The title of this series will be: “What Makes Us Who We Are?” While it is easy to recognize all the ways we are different, these conversations aim to help us discover all the ways we are already similar and share common interests and characteristics. This will be a time of learning and laughter, and each discussion will conclude with light refreshments — a feature sure to be the first thing that binds us in common. The date for these remaining lively (and informative) conversation will be:
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7th Holy Family Catholic Church
Each conversation begins at 7:00 pm and is free to everyone!
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ST. JOHN UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST UNAPPROVEDCHURCH COUNCIL
MEETING MINUTES JULY 15, 2019
7:00 PM PRESENT: Randy Pech, Vice President and Moderator of this meeting, Don Begolka, Keith Birnbaum, Selma Wilham, Suzanne Tockey, and Troy Meinershagen; Rev. Laurie Hill ex officio, and Darlene Begolka as guest. ABSENT: Randy Buse, Warren Goetsch, Greg Jurgenson, Laura Lee Rev. Hill opened with prayer. Approval of the Consent Agenda was moved and seconded. Motion passed. Rev. Hill gave her pastor’s report highlighting her experience as a delegate to the 32nd General Synod in June. She led a class after worship last Sunday to give more details but would be happy to answer questions. Old Business:
1. The pictorial directory is still in process. 2. Security System: Darlene reported she
has spoken with Gary Atteberry, chair of buildings and grounds, about the need for bids for a new security system. Meanwhile, TYCO has installed a new monitor, camera, etc., that is working much better. The new system is easier to use, clearer to see on the monitor, and makes no or very little sound. A question was raised by Randy about our security during church services. Don reported that after Jean and Troy Meinershagen return from an upcoming vacation, they will gather the safety committee together. Those on that committee are Don Begolka, Jean and Troy Meinershagen, Jack Leich, Wayne Mara, Leland Semple, Gary Atteberry, and
Brian Pineda. Don reported that Jean and Troy know a protocol of four steps: a. Lock out, b. Lock down, c. Evacuate, and d. Shelter.
New Business:
1. Because the council decided to go forward with the ONA study, a task force needs to be chosen to guide that process. Names were discussed. Pastor Laurie was tasked with inviting the suggested people to serve on this task force.
2. Debbie and Aaron Johnson requested to transfer their membership to Monticello United Methodist Church in Monticello, where they reside. It was moved and seconded, and motion passed.
Correspondence: Darlene graciously thanked the council for her gift and recognition of 35 years of service as our secretary/office manager. It was moved and seconded to adjourn. All those in favor joined in saying the Lord’s Prayer. We adjourned at 7:40pm. Humbly Submitted by Rev. Laurie Hill, secretary pro tem
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The following is a note from Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois: St. John United Church of Christ, Thank you so much for the recent donation to our food pantry. Your kindness and generosity are greatly appreciated.
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To: Pastor Laurie Hill and the congregation at St. John United Church of Christ: Thank you for inviting me to be in the pulpit at St. John’s – I had a great time and am happy that I am making new friends there! Blessings, Rev. Mark Jacobs
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The following is a note from Rev. Charlotte Nold and the congregation at St. John UCC in Chicago: Dear members and friends of St. John UCC, Your support of our mission here at St. John UCC is such an incredible blessing for us. At the end of this month we will be having our dinner for the homeless and others who are hungry prepared by the AA community. We also will be having our monthly rummage sales the second Saturday of each month starting in July.
With your financial support and prays we are able to keep our extremely important mission work alive here on Moffat Street in Chicago. Our food pantry and our deaf AA meetings on Monday and Friday evenings are going well. Our Sunday morning worship services are also a special time for us in our new location in the lower level of the parsonage. Your continued support and love are so appreciated.
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Thank you to the Special Events Committee for hosting a Brunch in honor of my 35 years of Office Manager (Church Secretary). It was very nice. Thanks to the Church Council for the gift card to Outback Steak House (it’s a favorite). Thanks to the congregation for the nice surprise of cash my card. As I said that Sunday there have been lots of changes in office practices since I started back in 1984. Technology being one of the major changes. Thanks again, Darlene
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MISSION COMMITTEE… By: Verdeen Ingram, Co-Chair
SPECIAL OFFERING SUNDAYS. . .The Mission Committee has designated the following Sundays:
• Second Sunday of each month a special offering will be taken following church for the Diaper Project for Head Start at Community Action.
• We have received word that Brooklyn has moved and is no longer in the Children, Inc. program. We wish her and her family well. At this time we will no longer be collecting for Brooklyn; but please stay tuned as the Mission committee is in the process of deciding the next step.
SCHOOL STARTS on AUGUST 16th.
ARE YOU READY?... Many children in Logan County will not be ready because their parents cannot afford to buy school supplies. Without the necessary supplies, these children
will already be behind the rest of their class. We don’t want any children to fall behind. They are the future of our community and of our country. Your Mission Committee
is collecting school supplies during August and September. We will take them to Community Action where they can be picked up by families who need them. Please join us by shopping for supplies at your favorite retailer or by bringing a monetary donation. Just leave your donations under the Giving Tree and we will do the rest. Thank you for supporting the school children of
Logan County!
The following is a picture and thank you note from the Atlanta Ag 4-H: 454 pounds! We did it!
Thank you for your help and contributions to our cap collection effort to turn into benches for our local community in Atlanta. We exceeded our goal.
Food Item of the MONTH…
PEANUT BUTTER
Delivered to Community Action Food Pantry
All Pantry Items are WELCOME
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NIGHTS Eat at Culver’s the 3rd Sunday of each month between 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. and support the projects each group in charge that month is sponsoring. Any committees or organizations that would like to host a month at Culver’s should call the Church Office (732-6957) to set up their month. August 18th: Mission Committee September 15th: October 20th: Veterans Celebration November 17th: Toys for Tots December 15th:
SAVE THE DATE
GERMAN HERITAGE EVENT
Sunday, October 6, 2019 Be thinking of a German dish you can bring to the potluck. Watch for more details on this
event as it gets closer.
St. John United Church of Christ will once again participate in the 3RD FRIDAYS DOWNTOWN EVENT in LINCOLN on FRIDAY, AUGUST 23rd from 5:30 TO 8:30 p.m. Our DUCK
POND will be set up and stocked with ducks with numbers on them. Children will have an opportunity to pick up a duck or ducks and win a prize or prizes. Our prize vault will be loaded with fun summertime items and school supplies. Each duck will have a number on it to correspond to a prize. There will even be a special duck that will entitle you to pick a prize out of our SPECIAL GIFT BAG. Sound like fun? Do you want to help? Call the Church Office and let us know when you can help between 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. on August 23rd.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 4th The books of Galatians and Ephesians
SUNDAY, AUGUST 25th
The books of Philippians and Colossians
These Bible Studies take place following church in Wilmert Lounge. Please feel free to bring your lunch.
1 Lynn Spellman 2 Leola Dowling 6 Bill Krepps, Madison Meinershagen 8 Lee Westerfield 13 Megan Joseph 17 Judy Atteberry, Jennifer Schneider 18 Charles Spellman 19 Jackson Morgan 20 Orry Ingram 21 Warren Goetsch, Brittany Kincheloe 23 Debbie Turner 25 Sandy Wilmert 27 Ashley Paulus 29 Susan Goergen
AUGUST ANNIVERSARIES 8 Donald and Rhonda Howard 11 Jerry and Nancy Gehlbach 12 Mark and Susan Goergen 15 Warren and Peggy Goetsch 19 Jim and Leslie Wilmert 21 Rod and Justine Morgan Ron and Karen Pecoraro Hank and Lynn Spellman 29 Bob and Sandy Meinershagen
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OUTREACH AND PUBLICITY Sandy Meinershagen,
and Tonita Reifsteck, Co-Chairs
Bingo was shared with the residents of St. Clara’s Rehab and Senior Care on Wednesday, July 10th. Helpers: Karen Birnbaum, Mary Fuller, Mary Pickett, Ruth Post, Sandy Wilmert,
and Toni Reifsteck. The colors of the USA birthday were featured in the Ice Cream Strawberry Dixie cups and blue punch treat. Betty won the Special Prize” – a Honey Bear covered in Honey and Bees swarming! Prizes and helpers are always welcome for this activity. Following Bingo, the helpers visited with our church members who were not present to play.
At a recent Logan County Community Health Collaborative meeting of the Opioid and Drug Addiction Action Plan at ALMH the “4 Pillar Approach” updated strategies and activities were shared. The Pillars being: “Prevention”, “Harm Reduction”, “Enforcement” and “Treatment”, each area was addressed. Still having overdose reports – to which Narcan is still the effective reversal drug, which is now available in all responders vehicles. Concern is still access to drugs both on the street and in the homes of family, home break-ins (that often includes old drugs). Drug disposal access at the local LPD on Fifth Street is proving successful – bin has to be emptied more often. Door Hangers are available for residents to post on their neighborhood doors – contact Angie at ALMH (or Toni has some) to help make public aware of this service. Hangers have been posted in the 4 square blocks around St. John UCC – all of Lincolnwood, Heritage, and Airport Road and other areas. Anyone – any citizen wanting to help areas needing posting can help by calling Angie Stoltzenberg at 217-605-5008. Programs are given in all schools and other civic organizations as requested. I’ve requested one for the Oasis in the future.
The report on the Safe Passage Program, led by Officer Christy Fruge of the LPD was noted that 26 have been helped or are being helped. There is a shortage of assistance in the process of getting locations. Drivers supply is ample but need help from folks who will make phone calls – prior to the transport. Anyone willing or want to inquire, call Officer Christy Fruge or Police Chief Adams for an appointment at the Police Station. Recovery efforts have become a large focal point of this task force. Funds have been acquired by other organizations since we initiated the program and have ample at this time. In attending the monthly meetings, I get an update, but our assistance is celebrated. THANK YOU, St. John, for caring. (Toni)
COMING NEXT MONTH: An article from our Parish Nurse, Kaye Wilmert about the dangerous interactions of drugs, such as oxycodone and alcohol. Meanwhile, please check the ingredients of your medications and pharmacy notes before enjoying even a small amount of alcohol.
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COMING SOON…TO ST. JOHN UCC IN LINCOLN…
The Field of Dreams Bible Study to begin on Tuesday, August 27th. Everyone is welcome! This will be a five-week Bible Study. Each week will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a brown bag supper; drinks will be provided. The Bible Study will run from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Field of Dreams is an American fantasy-drama sports movie released in 1989. The movie adapts W.P. Kinsella’s novel, Shoeless Joe. It is the story of an amateur farmer in Iowa, Ray Kinsella. Walking in his cornfield one day, Ray hears a voice calling him to undertake a baffling and, in all practicality, ridiculous project. From this point, Ray is driven to complete the project and to comprehend the purpose of this assignment. The result is an amazing journey that leads to life-changing discovery.
The movie is rich in imagery from the game of baseball. So guess what? To get in the baseball spirit; you are invited to wear your favorite ball team’s jersey to church on Sunday, August 25th.
ATTTENDANCE
June 30th: 42 July 7th: 40 July 14th: 36 July 21st: 40 July 28th: 34
PRAYER LIST
Dennis Ash David Boyd Cody Conrady Shyanne Conrady, Military Wyatt Conrady, Military Mary Fuller Virginia Frost Dick Gable Ruth Gordon Marcella Lenhardt Lois Leonard Doug Mann, Jr. and family Edna Mara Jim Miller Bob Miracle Ron Parsonage Ilona Pech Cheryl Renfrow Rich Reinwald Amy Row Cheryl McBenge Scales Kevin Stout Karen Sutton Edith Sykes Fred Wiseman Son-in-Law of Lee Westerfield Rebecca (Friend of Jan Hahn) Alicia (Lee Westerfield’s sister) Names will remain on the Prayer List for several weeks. We will remove them at that time unless we hear differently.
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Staff of St. John United Church of Christ
Members and Friends of St. John UCC Ministers Rev. Laurie Hill Designated Pastor Darlene Begolka Office Manager Jerry Berglin Custodian Steve Spaulding Maintenance Person Kirby Rodgers Financial Manager Laura Lee Organist Darlene Begolka Music Makers and Chime Choir Director Tonita Reifsteck Interim Bell Choir Director
Church Council for 2019
Warren Goetsch, President Randy Pech, Vice President
Laura Lee, Secretary Keith Birnbaum, Current Fund Treasurer Troy Meinershagen, Special Funds Treasurer Randy Buse, Financial Secretary Don Begolka Greg Jurgenson
