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Monthly news for members & friends from Niantic Community Church November 2013 Tidings A Federated Church of the United Church of Christ and the United Methodist Church An Open, Affirming, Reconciling Congregation God is creating a place of welcome for you who are new to the Christian faith, and you who have trusted in Christ all your life, and you who are not at all certain. God is creating welcome for each of you at NCC, and thats cause for thanks. God is filling you with amazing nourishment, from the communion table, to coffee hours, to the many church dinners, to the food pantries we host, to the community meal centers — and to every time you express care and concern for another. God is do- ing a lot of nourishing in you and through you: cause for thanks. God is teaching you to pray and God is leading you to be daring in your faith. Sometimes you are praying with words, sometimes with Christian out- reach, sometimes with learning. Every time you choose to live as though God is in charge of your life, thats a kind of prayer, too. God is doing amazing, life-changing, life-giving things. You get to be a part of it all, giving yourself with thanks and joy to the God who has given so generously to you. Gods richest blessings of grace to you, Pastor John A. Nelson From the Pastor and Teacher Dear Friends, The four Sundays of November are a special pep rally at NCC. Coincidentally, those Sundays are also guiding us into our pledging season! — which will soon culminate in a special Thanks for Givingworship service. On November 24 th , all of us are in- vited to bring in our pledges of financial support for the coming year. But why should you give to the church? Is it real- ly necessary to financially support what the church does? A first answer — the small answer — is yes”: the only reason NCC can do all the kinds of serving and teaching and learning and caring we do, is that you help them happen. Without your financial sup- port, the lights would not go on and the staff would be looking for other work. But theres a better answer — the big answer: Supporting the church is one of the deepest ways for you to give your thanks for what God is doing. Your supporting the body of Christ is a way of participat- ing in the abundance of God. For me, giving is a spiritual practice that reminds me of the goodness God is pouring out, for me and you and for all, right now. Agape Service and Gathering of Pledges On Sunday, November 24, we will share the bounty of the season in a special Agape Meal. We encourage you to come to worship bringing varieties of fruit breads (not pre-sliced, so that any remainder can be shared with food pantries) and washed, seedless grapes. During worship we will all come forward with our pledges of financial support to the church — and also enjoy a scrumptious feast!
Transcript

Tidings November 2013

Monthly news for members & friends from Niantic Community Church November 2013

Tidings

A Federated Church of the United Church of Christ and the United Methodist Church An Open, Affirming, Reconciling Congregation

God is creating a place of welcome for you who are new to the Christian faith, and you who have trusted in Christ all your life, and you who are not at all certain. God is creating welcome for each of you at NCC, and that’s cause for thanks.

God is filling you with amazing nourishment, from the communion table, to coffee hours, to the many church dinners, to the food pantries we host, to the community meal centers — and to every time you express care and concern for another. God is do-ing a lot of nourishing in you and through you: cause for thanks.

God is teaching you to pray and God is leading you to be daring in your faith. Sometimes you are praying with words, sometimes with Christian out-reach, sometimes with learning. Every time you choose to live as though God is in charge of your life, that’s a kind of prayer, too.

God is doing amazing, life-changing, life-giving things. You get to be a part of it all, giving yourself with thanks and joy to the God who has given so generously to you.

God’s richest blessings of grace to you,

Pastor John A. Nelson

From the Pastor and Teacher

Dear Friends,

The four Sundays of November are a special pep rally at NCC. Coincidentally, those Sundays are also guiding us into our pledging season! — which will soon culminate in a special “Thanks for Giving” worship service. On November 24th, all of us are in-vited to bring in our pledges of financial support for the coming year.

But why should you give to the church? Is it real-ly necessary to financially support what the church does? A first answer — the small answer — is “yes”: the only reason NCC can do all the kinds of serving and teaching and learning and caring we do, is that you help them happen. Without your financial sup-port, the lights would not go on and the staff would be looking for other work.

But there’s a better answer — the big answer: Supporting the church is one of the deepest ways for you to give your thanks for what God is doing. Your supporting the body of Christ is a way of participat-ing in the abundance of God. For me, giving is a spiritual practice that reminds me of the goodness God is pouring out, for me and you and for all, right now.

Agape Service and Gathering of Pledges

On Sunday, November 24, we will share the bounty of the season in a special Agape Meal. We encourage

you to come to worship bringing varieties of fruit breads (not pre-sliced, so that any remainder can be shared

with food pantries) and washed, seedless grapes. During worship we will all come forward with our pledges

of financial support to the church — and also enjoy a scrumptious feast!

Tidings November 2013

2

Worship in November 2013

Follow the “Preparing for Sunday” link on our website (NianticCommunityChurch.org). You will find the scripture readings for the current week, a brief description to set them in context, a reflection on the passages, and a prayer starter.

Get Ready for Worship!

~ Reminder ~

Closings for Niantic Community Church in

seriously inclement weather are broadcasted

on television (WFSB Channel 3) and radio

(WICH 1310 AM, WCTY 97.7 FM, WNLC

98.7 FM, WKNL 100.9 FM.)

(A message from the Communications Committee)

Worship Services at 9:00 & 11:15am

November 3rd • All Saints Sunday

Texts: Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18; Psalm 149; Ephesians 1:11-23; Luke 6:20-31

Pastor John A. Nelson preaching on 1 Timothy 6:17-19: “A Heart for Ministry”

November 10th • 25th week after Pentecost

Texts: Haggai 1:15b-2:9; Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17; Luke 20:27-38

Pastor John A. Nelson, preaching on John 13:34-35: “The Art of Love”

November 17th • 26nd week after Pentecost

Texts: Isaiah 65:17-25 and Isaiah 12 (or Malachi 4:1-2a and Psalm 98); 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13; Luke 21:5-19

Pastor John A. Nelson preaching on Joel 2:28, Matthew 6:33; Colossians 3:1 : “Bucket Lists”

November 24th • 27rd week after Pentecost

Agape Feast • “Thanks for Giving!”

Texts: Jeremiah 23:1-6 Luke 1:68-79 or Psalm 46; Colossians 1:11-20; Luke 23:33-43

Pastor John A. Nelson preaching on John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 8:24: “From the Rooftops”

Those Who Give

There are those who give little of the much which they have–

and they give it for recognition.

Their hidden desire makes their gifts unwholesome.

And there are those who have little and give it all.

These are the believers in life and the bounty of life,

and their coffer is never empty.

There are those who give with joy,

and that joy is their reward.

And there are those who give with pain,

and that pain is their baptism.

And there are those who give and know not pain in giving,

nor do they seek joy, nor give with mindfulness of virtue;

They give as in yonder valley the myrtle breathes

its fragrance into space.

Through the hands of such as these God speaks,

and from behind their eyes God smiles upon the earth.

Kahlil Gibran, On Giving

inwardoutward.org is a project of Church of the Saviour, a family of churches and ministries in and near Washington, DC. Visit their website for Daily Words, writings on the life of faith,

and reflections on the Bible.

Tidings November 2013

3

News from Christian Education and Youth Minister Russ Kirby

Childcare We are pleased to offer childcare all morning long, every Sunday morning. Our Nursery/Childcare professionals, Chelsea Russell and Jennifer Bolay, are here to take great care of our children for both the 9 and 11:15 AM services, as well as during coffee hour and adult church school, all in Room 2 of the Children’s Center. During the 9 AM service, they welcome infants and toddlers, and the rest of the morning they are available to care for age zero through 4th graders. We encourage you to take advantage of this new ministry available to our church family!

Youth Groups Junior Youth Fellowship is our regular, weekly meeting of middle school youth on Sunday evenings. In the fall, the group consists of 6th-8th graders, and in January we welcome our 5th graders to the group as we prepare for the annual Wanakee mission trip to work at a New Hampshire Heifer International farm. Sunday nights usually consist of a snack supper, games and chat time, and time with God, all lots of fun! We also enjoy wonderful special events about once a month. For more information, contact Youth Minister Russ Kirby ([email protected]) Senior Youth Council is for all 9th-12th graders and meets about every 3 weeks to work on special events, fundraisers and the annual Summer Mission Trip. They met recently and voted to change summer mission trip sites so that all who wanted to go could attend! They chose the Adirondack Mountains in upstate NY on the week of July 6-11, 2013. Soon they will be making plans for fundraisers and the trip itself. If you are in grades 9-12 and are interested in going, you may secure a spot with a $60 non-refundable deposit. Just bring your check to Russ and you’ll be on your way to making a difference in the Adirondacks!

Did you know? - That the money you put into the gumball machine in Russ’ office goes toward Junior Youth’s mission trip to

Wanakee? - We have a (mostly) youth band that leads our children in music each week during their Church School

opening after they leave the church service following Thought for Young Minds?

Youth Needed to Serve at the Jack Frost Bazaar Luncheon The Jack Frost Bazaar, November 9th, needs students in grades 6 - 12 to help serving lunch. The luncheon is incredibly popular, with folks lining up to eat starting at 11:00. Show up between 10:30 and 10:45 in the Dining Hall, and have fun working with your friends. Contact Jen Datum ([email protected]) if you are available.

November Calendar: Sunday, November 3 10:30 am CE Meeting 4:30-6:00 pm Junior Youth Fellowship 6:00-8:00 pm Confirmation Class 6:00 pm Senior Youth Shelter Meal at St. James Saturday, November 9 10:30 am Youth Serving Lunch for Jack Frost Bazaar

Sunday, November 10 9:00 am (During worship) One Room Church School --No Junior Youth Fellowship—Holiday Weekend-- Sunday, November 17 4:30-6:00 pm Junior Youth Fellowship 6:00-8:00 pm Confirmation Class Sunday, November 24 4:30-6:00 pm Junior Youth Fellowship

Tidings November 2013

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Hot Dogs - I love them and found a better choice. Applegate Farms Organic Beef Hot Dogs, made with USDA-certified organic beef and without nitrites and corn syrup. These dogs are lower in saturated fat, calories and sodium than typical super-market or ballpark fare. Rheumatoid Arthritis - What is not an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis? A) Glucosamine B) Acupuncture C) Curcumin D) Meditation The answer is A. Many experts recommend glucosamine for the wear and tear of osteoarthritis, but there is no evidence it eases RA, an autoimmune disease. The World Health Organization endorses acupuncture as an effective therapy for RA, based on studies it which it moderately reduced pain in 90% of patients. Research shows curcumin, the yellow pigment of the herb turmeric, is as effective as potent anti-inflammatory drugs in improving morning stiffness and joint swelling without side effects; the recommended dose is 400-600mg 3 x day and meditation is always a plus. Caregivers Beware - In this past year I lost my mother in May and my mother-in law to dementia a few years before that. My advice to our church family is to come together as a family and have a family meeting and decide who is in charge of shopping, lunch out, hairdresser, diapers and wipes, cookies and candy, visiting every day and reimburse that person for time spent. Family members close by have to pick up the slack but family living a distance could help in other ways. Half of the time I lose the CVS recipes and don't get reimbursed. In my Mother-in-Law’s case...I am dealing with 2 sons, one being my husband. When you are in this situation you have to protect yourself from serious burn-out. Please protect the one you know will be the one you will count on and talk to your attorney about this. Your Medical Advocate may not realize what they are getting into. Be sure to remember that nothing in your daily life is so incognizant and so inconsequential that God will not help you by answering your prayer. Ole Hallesby All who seek the Lord shall praise Him. Their hearts shall live forever and ever. Psalm 22:27 (God bless you mom) Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, Cherish Your Family. Marie LaTourette

We are a community of Christians: learning God’s ways; sharing God’s love;

extending God’s peace and healing grace to all.

Tidings November 2013

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History Quiz & Trivia

The church in the early colonies was not supported by pledges, but each family in the community was taxed for the support of the Gospel, the Minister, and the schools. Seating in the meeting house was done by a committee, and pews were assigned by up to six certain distinctions. Do you have any idea what some of the distinctions might have been?

Wishing abundant blessings

upon Donna Hathaway as she begins her Member Care Ministry. Donna prayerfully discerned a calling to work with Parish Life to visit and deliver sanctuary flowers to members and friends of NCC who are home bound. If you know of anyone who might welcome a visit or some flowers, please let us know by calling the church office at (860) 739-6208.

NCC Quote of the month

“Oh Eyeore…..”

A Chair’s loving response to someone whose glass was not half full

during a recent committee meeting.

Reverend Day McCallister will be back at NCC on Wednesday, November 6th. Please join us at 6:30 in the Sanctuary for a continuation of the TARASC training. We'll be focusing on Tolerance and Acceptance. What do these words mean? What do they look like when put into practice? Would you rather someone tolerate you or accept you? How can we as a congregation make ourselves more open to others? The training will last about two hours and snacks will be provided. If you have any questions, see Ean Oliver, Nori Lembree, Jackie Kalajainen, Barbara Heaney, or Ned Ruete for more info.

Follow us on Twitter (@NianticChurch) and like us on Facebook (facebook.com/NianticCommunityChurch).

Tidings November 2013

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Coffee hour can set folks on end sometimes with uncertainty about how it all works. Each month a church group/committee is assigned to oversee that special time between worship when we share refreshment and fellowship. A sign-up sheet is posted outside the church office for individuals or families that would like to do the honors to celebrate a special occasion, or just because they want to. When no one signs up, the committee assigned for that week will host.

If you are part of the host committee or host family, please plan to provide coffee creamers of some kind and some sort of simple snack. John Parker usually gets the coffee going, and a supply of sugar, cups and stirrers are provided by Cheri Meier through Parish Life Ministry.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts are:

PPRC October 13, 20, 27 and Nov. 3

Nominating/NCCCC Board Nov. 10, 17, 24 and Dec. 1

Attn: Committee Chairs

Please be certain to notify the church office of changes in scheduled meetings, new meetings or cancelled meetings. Due to the joy of having such a busy church, it is sometimes difficult to find space for every group’s needs. We appreciate your assistance in helping use our space most effectively, and would like to ensure that you have space when you need it.

Thank you,

Judy

Red Brocade The Arabs used to say, When a stranger appears at your door, feed him for three days before asking him who he is, where he’s come from, where he’s headed. That way he’ll have strength enough to answer. Or, by then you’ll be such good friends you don’t care. Let’s go back to that. Rice? Pine nuts? Here, take the red brocade pillow. My child will serve water to your horse. No, I was not busy when you came! I was not preparing to be busy. That’s the armor everyone put on to pretend they had a purpose in the world. I refuse to be claimed. Your plate is waiting. We will snip fresh mint into your tea. Naomi Shihab Nye Source: 19 Varieties of Gazelle

Tidings November 2013

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ATTIC TREASURES: "ONE PERSON'S JUNK, ANOTHER'S TREASURE." Time to clean out all

the "stuff" you don’t use or need anymore. Items can be dropped off from Nov. 3rd through Nov. 6th, and left in the designated area of the dinning hall. Please not until then. Also, please

be selective about what you bring. NO COMPUTERS!! They just don't go. If you have any questions, just ask.

BAKED GOODS: How can you resist all of the homemade pies, cakes, breads, jams and jellies

that will be sold! Make your own specialty and donate it. Drop-off on Nov. 8.

BOOKS: Looking for all types of books in decent condition, especially children’s books. We also take DVDs, books on CD and music CDs, blank journals and stationary sets. Drop-off

between Nov. 3—7.

CHRISTMAS CORNER: Time to re-purpose the Christmas decorations you no longer use—any village/cottage pieces, statues, wreaths, pillows, table-top trees—anything to do with

Christmas. Drop-off between Nov. 3—7.

COOKIE COTTAGE: We will feature wonderful, homemade goodies, festively decorated cookies and candy. Traditional favorites like oatmeal, chocolate chip, gingersnaps and snickerdoodles

are always a hit. Sign up to donate one, two or more dozens of cookies, and a batch of homemade candies. Drop off on Nov. 8th.

HANDMADE: Do you sew, knit, crochet, or make hand-craft items? Donations needed, bring

them to the church office anytime up through Nov. 7.

JEWELRY: Jingle, Jangle, we need your bangles for our Jewelry Booth. We take any jewelry you no longer need or want. Drop off in the church office anytime through Nov. 7.

PRECIOUS PAST: Donate that wonderful item you don't have room for -- help us with your

one of a kind item. Our needs are antiques and old collectibles. Items such as: old linens, china, crystal, silver or silver plate, depression or early glass, classic/vintage toys etc. Drop off

anytime up through Nov. 6th. Call Georgie Granger if you have any questions.

SPORTING GOODS/TOY TENT: Time to go through the toys your children have outgrown! Sporting goods also needed—bikes, sleds, ski equipment, sports balls, yard games—anything

you can think of. Please no broken/damaged items. Drop-off between Nov. 3—Nov. 6 in the dining hall.

Jack Frost Bazaar

Saturday, November 9, 2013 9:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m.

Can you help?

Tidings November 2013

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Committee Chairperson Phone #

Attic Treasures Ellen Ashburn 739-2518

Alternative Marketplace

Sandy Spencer

Baked Goods Judy Layden 739-6741

Books Nancy Hunt

Christmas Corner

Colette Rugg 434-2173

Cookie Cottage Carol June 739-8851

Hand Made Items

Jane Barth 739-6002

Jewelry Jeannette

Woodworth

739-2945

Luncheon Heather Larson 691-0521

Kim Birk 434-6279

Mrs. Santa Iva Thomas

Parking/Door Carl Putnam 739-0300

Pecans & Knives

Susan Swetland 739-2700

Precious Past Georgie Granger 739-0664

Silent Auction Susan Brown 460-7414

Toy Tent/Sporting

Goods

Liz Westcott &

Family

860-451-

5849

Treasurer Sue Putnam 739-0300

Please contact the chairpersons to offer assistance, or if you have any questions. We’re looking forward to seeing you there! Next time you’re at church, pick up a

flyer advertising the Bazaar to hang in your place of business, grocery store, pharmacy etc…Spread the word! We need shoppers! We also need help to set up and clean up the bazaar. Don’t forget: you can order lunch to go at the Bazaar! Bazaar co-chairs: Jennifer Datum (860)434-7399 [email protected] Susan Brown (860)460-7414 [email protected]

Jack Frost Bazaar Continued...

SILENT AUCTION: Please consider donating new items. Gift cards/certificates are needed for restaurants, movie or theater tickets, grocery or specialty food stores, personal services

such as hair/nail/spa, lawn/yard/garage cleanup, in-home specialty dinner, lessons (music, art, quilting), fishing trips, cruises, memberships to area attractions/museums,

and any other activity that encourage families to spend time together! Consider a multi-family/friend themed basket so each is not burdened with the total cost. It's amazingly easy to contribute to the auction, a bazaar favorite for several years! Must have all auction

items by Nov 5th. Call Susan Brown, 860-460-7414.

Tidings November 2013

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Menu

Turkey Mashed Potatoes Coleslaw Stuffing Cranberry Sauce Apple Crisp

Join us for a traditional turkey lunch between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. The cost is $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. Dine in or take out are available. Children may substitute chicken nuggets.

Jack Frost Bazaar Luncheon - Nov 9th

Centerpieces will be available for purchase for $15.00 at the conclusion of the luncheon.

~ Limited quantity ~

Reserve yours now by contacting Kim Birk or Heather Larson.

~ Youth Need to Serve Luncheon at Jack Frost Bazaar ~

We need students in grades 6 - 12 to serve lunch at the Jack Frost Bazaar. The smells of roasting turkey waft through the church the day of the bazaar. The luncheon is incredibly popular, with folks lining up to eat starting at 11:00. We need help serving food and drink. Show up between 10:30 and 10:45 in the Dining Hall, and we'll put you to work with your friends. Contact Jen Datum ([email protected]) if you are available.

Tidings November 2013

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With great appreciation, the Jewelry Boutique girls would like to thank all who donated items for last year's Bazaar. It amazes us and overwhelms us every year what all of you provide to help our Church. We are again asking for donations to be dropped off at the Church Office throughout the month. It's a big project to sort and organize. Being able to get as much done before the night of the Bazaar will help us immensely. Thank you, Jeannette Woodworth Laureen Pierandi-McCarthy Edie Watrous-Woody

Hosting committees/groups highlight their service to church members by hosting movie nights that are aligned with their mission and purpose. If you have a suggestion for a movie please let us know. All publicity for the event is taken care of, while hosts enjoy most of the following activities:

Open/Close the church Set up /Break down of event (typically

10-30 people attend) Provide refreshments (popcorn, drinks) Hand out tickets Take a head count Deposit free will offerings in box Pop in the movie Arrange for facilitation of discussion

following film

For more information contact Patty Chaffee, (860)739-6208 [email protected]

So you want to host a movie night?

November 9th will mark the 6th Annual Fountain/Timmons Team of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Food Drive for the Gemma Moran Food Center. Other food drive sponsors include Tri-Town Foods, WNLC and the Niantic Rotary. The Gemma Moran food bank serves many local food pantries. This year you are invited to participate in a fund drive to purchase badly needed peanut butter for our local food bank. We have been selling individual jars of peanut butter for $1.80 or a case of peanut butter (12 Jars) for $21.60 in the dining hall after the 9AM service. It takes 98 cases to make a pallet of peanut butter and we are 5 cases away from meeting our goal. Thank you to all our church members that have purchased in support of this worthwhile cause. The Outreach Committee is also challenging local churches to participate in this food drive to see collectively how many pallets we can purchase in the spirit of friendly competition.

PEANUT BUTTER PALLET CHALLENGE

Tidings November 2013

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The ladies of WCSA work diligently to create bird feeders for the Jack Frost Bazaar. They spread peanut butter over giant pine cones and packaged them with a festive holiday ribbon. These treasures can only be purchased at the Jack Frost Bazaar, Saturday, November 9 from 9-2. Be sure to get there early to get yours.

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Here are some easy breezy ways to use your gifts in the place where every member is a minister:

The Labyrinth Ministry is a powerful and spiritually moving experience that needs more hands. Help is needed for occasional events throughout the year. No labyrinth walking skills necessary.

There is an opening for a Bulletin Board Minister to help keep BB throughout the church fresh and informative. Make it a family affair by bringing your son or daughter to help with this quarterly (or as needed) task.

Exploring opportunities for all who are single

Social Educational

Support & Service Meets third Wednesday of each month …

And other times for social events. Wednesday, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

All are welcome regardless of religious affiliation. Call the church office for more info (860)739-6208.

At the church…

Do you have news of an upcoming program, fundraiser, or special

project? Perhaps an announcement you would like to share? Let the

Tidings help spread the word.

Please email your message to [email protected].

Join Us for a Labyrinth Walk & Dinner

St. Mark Parish, Westbrook Followed by dinner at Lenny & Joe’s.

Dress warm for this outdoor walk. The walk is free….just pay for

your own dinner.

Friday, November 15 Meet in the NCC parking lot

at 4:30 to car pool.

RSVP to Patty Chaffee (860)739-6208

A nurturing faith activity….

Tidings November 2013

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Save the Date for the 4th Tuesday of each

month for

Prayer Shawl Ministry

November 26

January 28

Don’t know how to knit? We’ll teach you ! Don’t

have any yarn? We’ll provide it ! Need a pattern?

We have em ! Prefer to crochet? That’s okay !

Ink Recycling: Thank you to everyone who has brought in their used ink cartridges for recycling. We continue to take the used cartridges to Staples and it has greatly helped the office budget! Please continue to recycle.

4th Friday each month

7:00-8:00 p.m. A free nurturing faith opportunity, facilitated by Kate Brodaski. Bring a drum if you have one. All are welcome & no experience or drum needed. November 22

January 24

Niantic Community Church, 170 Pennsylvania Avenue, Niantic, CT 06357 (860)739-6208 www.NianticCommunityChurch.org

Join us!!!

WCSA welcomes special guest Marie La Tourette at their November 19th meeting at 1:00. She will present Pug Dogs on Parade and share photos of her Adirondack experience of viewing more than a hundred pug dogs strutting their stuff in full costume. Join WCSA for this time of fun and fellowship. They meet in the Fellowship Room the 3rd Tuesday of each month and all women are welcome.

Tidings November 2013

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Women’s Fellowship Book Club

Next book is “The Secrets of Mary Bowser” by Lois Leveen. Join them on December 8th at 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Room for an evening of fun discussion. Open to all. Any questions, contact Carol Donovan.

Labyrinth Ministry

Monthly Open Labyrinth Walk will take place in the multipurpose room, Sunday November 24, 11:30-1:30.

For more information call Patty Chaffee at 860-739-6208.

And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and you shall be my people. Leviticus 26:11-13

Advent labyrinth Walk at McCooks Sunday, December 1, 2013

Begin your Advent Celebration with a labyrinth walk by candle light on McCooks beach. Made from organic materials of beach stones and driftwood. Pastor John Nelson will offer a blessing followed by an open walk, 5-7 p.m. Please join us.

(Volunteers are also needed to help build the labyrinth on Saturday morning begin-ning about 11:30 weather permitting. No experience needed. For more information contact Patty Chaffee 739-6208.)

Tidings November 2013

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Inspiring Generosity…

We are surrounded by those who inspire us to give, love, work and live generously. This month’s spotlight is on the Chili Cook-off Volunteers and Sponsors.

6th Annual Chili Cook-Off was a successful event because of its volunteers. Behind

the scenes a committee of workers organized the many aspects of this event. Still more

workers joined in setup, decorating, cooking, and keeping the kitchen humming; while

youth members assisted in the children’s center. We were privileged to have celebrity

participation by Tri Town’s Jack Fitzpatrick. He supplied us with hot dogs and rolls to

feed an army. Jack, among our many sponsors, offered gift cards that became part of our

winning baskets.

Craig Holch was on top of recording the event, with the distinct quality of a

professional photographer. We were fortunate to have John Wood, on guitar, and

Jennifer Datum, as MC. While John and Jen offered entertainment, Kathy Tiller, Director

of NCC Children’s Center, provided children’s activities. Our chili contestants numbered

nineteen with several from the community, one even being a restaurant, Flanders Fish

Market. The desserts and cornbread provided by church members allowed our 120 plus

tasters a sweet finish to their evening.

Winners Chris Bono, Carol June, Kate Gilstad-Hayden, Kelly Biondi, and Mary Brailey

were church members and community members. This celebration of autumn was a true

blend of our church family and the Niantic Community. Thank you.

History Quiz Answer

Answer: The distinctions were age, wealth, bir th, learning, and public service. In our own records we find: “January 4, 1730… Mr. John Champlin, Deacon Thomas Lee, Capt. Joseph Beckwith are appointed a committee to seat the meeting house… and in seating the same have regard to the Age, Estate and Ability and to seat it according to their best judgment.” Trivia: The minister ’s wife sat to the right of the pulpit and the deacons in the front. There were also pews assigned for boys and girls and to those of red or black skin.

Tidings November 2013

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~ 2013 CHILI COOKOFF RESULTS ~

Joan Walworth with 1st place winner Chris Bono

2nd place winner Carol June

TriTown Co-owner Jack Fitzpatrick with Chili Chair Joan Walworth

Mary Brailey Jack’s Choice Chili winner

Non-Beef winner Kelly Biondi, right

Kate Gilstad-Hayden Vegetarian Chili winner

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Pastor & Teacher

John A. Nelson

Community Minister

Patty Chaffee

Christian Education and Youth Minister

Russ Kirby

Transitional Music Minister

Carolyn Engle

Church Secretary

Judy Snitkin

Parish Nurses

Marie LaTourette, Donna Hathaway,

& Jill Johnson

Children’s Center Director

Kathy Tiller

Deadline for the December edition

of Tidings is November 15th.

Please e-mail submissions to

[email protected]

Niantic Community Church

170 Pennsylvania Avenue

Niantic, CT 06357

(860) 739-6208

[email protected]

www.NianticCommunityChurch.org

Worship Services at

9:00 a.m. and

11:15 a.m.


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