May-June 2015 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Hasbrouck Heights, NJ TRINITY TIDINGS O God, the host at every meal, at this table you spread out a feast for all peoples, the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Send us from this banquet to invite others into these good things, to let justice roll down like waters, and to care for the least of our sisters and brothers; through Jesus Christ, our Sovereign and our Savior. Amen. ELW Post-Communion Prayer, 2014 But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. Paul, 1 st Letter to the Corinthians (12:31) What do you think of when you hear or read the phrase “the Good Life”? Do you imagine sunny days, not a cloud in the sky—miles of beach and ocean and cool, sparkling drink at hand? Perhaps some of us imagine a grand house decorated to perfection, or a large bank account that would allow us to retire and travel wherever and whenever we want. Others may think of “the good life” in terms of professional or personal accomplishment, success and recognition. Maybe a few of us think of Tony Bennett singing the ballad and the opening words “Oh, the good life, full of fun, seems to be the ideal . . . “ Those of you who are very familiar with the song he made famous know that it is a short song that questions what we call the “good life” and how l ove and heartache lead us to “kiss the good life good-bye.” The pursuit of the “Good Life” is not a recent notion. Aristotle is actually credited with this philosophical term for the way that one would like to live. The “Good Life” is the life that everyone is after. It’s a vision of well -being that we’ve been taught to create or chase. Yet it’s usually on the other side of the fence where grass always appears greener. It’s the dream that captivates our imagination, and just as often breaks our hearts (just as the ballad foretells). Many of us might agree that the “Good Life” is as evasive as it is alluring. Many of us might also agree that living the “Go od Life” is something greater than how much money, recognition or popularity we enjoy. The question of the “Good Life” in the traditi on of the philosophers like Aristotle and Plato was always the question of what creates a life worth living. What is the nature of success and happiness? What is good, and how do I pursue it? Jesus and the scriptures have a different approach to the question of what is good and the nature of happiness. From the prophet Micah, we hear that God has showed us what is good—“to do justice, love kindness, and to walk humbly with God” (6:8). Jesus’ life was full of these “good things.” What we learn from scripture and Jesus and what Paul was pointing out to the ov erly competitive and zealous Corinthians is that the “Good Life” is not about what we have but what we do with what we have. For Christians, the “Good Life” is about the gifts we have received from God’s love and grace that we share with others. As Christians, we have the joy of being sent to invite others “into these good things” which cannot be bought, only received as a gift. But, as the late preacher, Peter Gomes, writes in his book The Good Life, we do well to “come to terms with both discipline and freedom as means to the end of living a good life.” The apostle Paul said something similar when he wrote in the same letter quoted above, “All things are lawful, but not all things are beneficial. All things are lawful but not all things build up.” For Christians, the “Good Life” encompasses the paradox of freedom and discipline. We cannot enjoy the “Good Life” unless we are generously giving it away and inviting others to the same. From Jesus, we learn that the “Good Life” is not dependent on circumstances—we can live the “Good Life” in the worst of circumstances because from Christ, we have the “still more excellent way” of the good things of God’s love. I hope that you will join me in inviting others into the good things of doing justice, loving kindness and walking humbly with God.
Transcript
May-June 2015 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
TRINITY TIDINGS
O God, the host at every meal, at this table you spread out a feast for all peoples, the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Send us from this banquet to invite others into these good things, to let justice roll down like waters, and to care for the least of our sisters and brothers; through Jesus Christ, our Sovereign and our Savior. Amen. ELW Post-Communion Prayer, 2014
But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. Paul, 1st Letter to the Corinthians (12:31)
What do you think of when you hear or read the phrase “the Good Life”? Do you imagine sunny days, not a cloud in the sky—miles of beach and ocean and cool, sparkling drink at hand? Perhaps some of us imagine a grand house decorated to perfection, or a large bank account that would allow us to retire and travel wherever and whenever we want. Others may think of “the good life” in terms of professional or personal accomplishment, success and recognition. Maybe a few of us think of Tony Bennett singing the ballad and the opening words “Oh, the good life, full of fun, seems to be the ideal . . . “ Those of you who are very familiar with the song he made famous know that it is a short song that questions what we call the “good life” and how love and heartache lead us to “kiss the good life good-bye.”
The pursuit of the “Good Life” is not a recent notion. Aristotle is actually credited with this philosophical term for the way that one would like to live. The “Good Life” is the life that everyone is after. It’s a vision of well-being that we’ve been taught to create or chase. Yet it’s usually on the other side of the fence where grass always appears greener. It’s the dream that captivates our imagination, and just as often breaks our hearts (just as the ballad foretells).
Many of us might agree that the “Good Life” is as evasive as it is alluring. Many of us might also agree that living the “Good Life” is something greater than how much money, recognition or popularity we enjoy. The question of the “Good Life” in the tradition of the philosophers like Aristotle and Plato was always the question of what creates a life worth living. What is the nature of success and happiness? What is good, and how do I pursue it?
Jesus and the scriptures have a different approach to the question of what is good and the nature of happiness. From the prophet Micah, we hear that God has showed us what is good—“to do justice, love kindness, and to walk humbly with God” (6:8). Jesus’ life was full of these “good things.” What we learn from scripture and Jesus and what Paul was pointing out to the overly competitive and zealous Corinthians is that the “Good Life” is not about what we have but what we do with what we have. For Christians, the “Good Life” is about the gifts we have received from God’s love and grace that we share with others. As Christians, we have the joy of being sent to invite others “into these good things” which cannot be bought, only received as a gift.
But, as the late preacher, Peter Gomes, writes in his book The Good Life, we do well to “come to terms with both discipline and freedom as means to the end of living a good life.” The apostle Paul said something similar when he wrote in the same letter quoted above, “All things are lawful, but not all things are beneficial. All things are lawful but not all things build up.” For Christians, the “Good Life” encompasses the paradox of freedom and discipline. We cannot enjoy the “Good Life” unless we are generously giving it away and inviting others to the same.
From Jesus, we learn that the “Good Life” is not dependent on circumstances—we can live the “Good Life” in the worst of circumstances because from Christ, we have the “still more excellent way” of the good things of God’s love. I hope that you will join me in inviting others into the good things of doing justice, loving kindness and walking humbly with God.
Page 2 May-June 2015
THE TIDINGS
May 10, 2015 June 21, 2015
ON THESE SPECIAL DAYS, WE HONOR THE MEN AND WOMEN IN OUR LIVES. . .
“Beez ga Buzz”
I speak to you who have just been reborn in baptism, my little children in Christ, you who are the new offspring of the church, gift of the Father, proof of Mother Church’s fruitfulness. All of you who stand fast in the Lord are a holy seed, a new colony of bees: the very flower of our ministry and fruit of our toil, my joy and my crown.
Augustine (4th Century) When Rebecca, who is now 24 years old, was a toddler, she took delight in learning the sounds made by animals. Ann and our older daughter, Allie, would read her a Little Golden Book entitled The Animals of Farmer Jones. This resulted in a family game. Allie would say, “Cows go moo” and Becky would respond, “Cow ga moo;;” “Dogs go woof” to which the response was “Dogs ga woof;;” “Sheep go baa” and Becky responded, “Ship ga baa.” Allie added her own, “Bees go buzz,” to which Rebecca responded, “Beez ga buzz.” That family tradition got recorded and every so often, one of the girls (young women!) plays the tape and remembers the past.
The story came up again recently as Ann became a beekeeper. As some of you have heard, Ann put two colonies on a farm not far from where we live. Ann has joined the Lehigh Valley Beekeepers’ Association, has taken a couple of courses and read a few books. I am along as a helper/learner. The bees have become like pets. We don’t have dogs that go woof or cats that go meow. We have bees that go buzz. At the beginning, our bees were very friendly. We didn’t have to wear any masks or gloves. Today, there are more bees and they have gotten accustomed to their queen and their hive and we have decided to wear the hood and put on gloves; so far, so good. I must say, it is pretty amazing standing in the midst of thousands of bees all set, about to do their work. I feel deep gratitude in the experience. It seems magical. I came across the Augustine quote recently (see above). It is from the book of prayer that many monks and nuns use daily. It connects themes of resurrection, baptism and life with natural elements of spring. This Easter, as the earth warms and new life takes shape in the world, let us continue to have hope that new life will take hold in our lives and the life of this community of faith. Let us take gratitude in our experience. Let us appreciate the truth of the Resurrection of Christ in the world!
Pastor Dreyman
May-June 2015 Page 3
THE TIDINGS
The Sundays of Easter 2015 The Easter season is a week of weeks, Seven Sundays when we play
in the mystery of Christ’s presence, mostly through the glorious Gospel of John.
Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 3 I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit. Alleluia! On the night of his arrest, Jesus taught his disciples about the relationship they would have with him. Those who abide in his word and love would bear fruit, for “apart from me,” Jesus tells them, “you can do nothing.” This may be a difficult word for Jesus’ disciples as they prepare for a time when they will indeed be apart from him. It may also be a difficult word for us who live in a culture that admires and encourages only self-reliance and individualism. Nevertheless, the good news for this Sunday is primarily about relationship, about dependent and interrelated relationships. God is the vine grower, Jesus the vine, and we are the branches, who, separated from the life-giving vine, can do nothing. Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 10*—Litany and Blessing of Mothers and All Women Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Alleluia! *2nd Sunday Family Communion at 9:15 AM Traditional Holy Communion at 10:30 AM Friendship is the image of what life in the risen Christ is to be is this Sunday’s theme. Once again, we hear Jesus repeat the most important of all his commands, that we love one another as he has loved us. God’s children believe that Jesus is the Messiah and love God by keeping God’s commandments. Thus, the world is conquered not through military might but through love and faith. Seventh Sunday of Easter, May 17 I will not leave you orphaned, says the Lord. I am coming to you. Alleluia! This morning the church hears Jesus’ words on the night before his death. The gospel of John reports the words of Jesus’ prayer, a prayer for his disciples and for all who would believe in him through their words that they might be one as he and the Father are one. The unity we share is not one of doctrine but of mutual abiding, love and joy and is the work of the Spirit. DAY OF PENTECOST, May 24 Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in us the fire of your love. Alleluia! Fifty days after Passover, Jews kept the Pentecost festival, which originally celebrated the wheat harvest but had become the commemoration of the giving of the law on Mount Sinai. On the fiftieth day of Easter, Christians celebrate the Spirit, through whom and in whom the people of God are created and re-created. In John’s gospel, the Spirit brings the truth of God into the believing community. THE HOLY TRINITY, May 31 Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts;; God’s glory fills the whole earth. Alleluia! Today is one of only a handful of days on the church’s liturgical calendar that celebrates an idea. All language for God is inadequate and no theological construct can appropriately understand the divine. Today is, however, an attempt, and in fact it is the attempt of the Church. Today is not about the faith of any one individual, it is about the faith of the community of Jesus.
Page 4 May-June 2015
THE TIDINGS
Time after Pentecost: The Sundays of June 7 to July 5, 2015
Join us for happy hour on Sunday mornings at 10:30 . . . bread and wine will be served.
Throughout the month of June, as we encounter Jesus bringing healing for those who suffer in mind, body, and spirit, we will light candles during the Eucharist as
we pray together for the coming of Christ’s reign of healing in our lives and in our world. June 7, Pentecost 2 Wait for the LORD, for with the LORD is steadfast love. (Psalm 130:7) Jesus today calls those around him his mother and brothers, meaning that all people—even evil people—are called into the reign of God, and therefore given an opportunity to claim who they really are. The ha-Satan, Hebrew for “the accuser,” is charged with making us believe that we are something we are not, declaring that we are out of God’s favor. Jesus, on the other hand, declares what we really are: beloved brothers and sisters of the incarnate Christ. How do these accusations and counterproposals lay a foundation for talking about and understanding who we really are?
June 14, Pentecost 3 Welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. (James 1:21) Oftentimes people have used the metaphor of the mustard seed growing into a massive tree to illustrate the truism that small things can grow into big things. However, mustard seeds do not develop into massive trees, but rather into scraggly annual plants. In the gospel of Mark, this image is used ironically to lift up the paradox of the cross which is also a tree of life. It is as if Jesus is saying in Mark: “You want a cosmic tree that holds up the sky and shelters all the birds of the air? It is hidden in the cross.”
June 21, Pentecost 4—Litany and Blessing of Fathers and All Men You stilled the storm and silenced the waves of the sea. (Psalm 107:29) In fear of perishing, the disciples cry out as their small boat is nearly swamped by a storm at sea in the night. Jesus rebukes both the storm and their fears with the words, “Peace! Be still!” In Christ is the authority to command natural forces. In Christ is the power to speak peace and calm our fears.
June 28 , Pentecost 5 I will exalt you, O LORD, because you have lifted me up. (Psalm 30:1) Jairus, a respected leader, begs Jesus to heal his daughter. A woman with a hemorrhage is ritually unclean, treated as an outcast in Jewish society. Both Jairus and the unnamed woman come to Jesus in faith, believing in his power to heal and bring life out of death.
July 5, Pentecost 6 Our eyes look to you, O God, until you show us your mercy. (Psalm 123:2) Going out two by two is an image of companionship that is characteristic of the church. Believers sent out on a journey has been a beloved image throughout church life and also an important image for the years of one’s life. For Christians, the journey through life to death is always a journey with and toward God.
Living faithfully. Renewing hope. Sharing God’s love.
May-June 2015 Page 5
THE TIDINGS
Save the date: Day of Pentecost
Sunday, May 24 10:30 AM Festive Eucharist
WEAR RED to celebrate the birth of the Church
Kate Duggan, President of Family Promise of Bergen County along with members of the FPBC Board will offer a special message
of thanks during the service for the donation from Redeemer’s legacy and for our continued support and partnership in their mission to
bring the housed and homeless together. In addition, we will formally announce and give thanks for the
gift to Holy Trinity’s mission from Redeemer’s legacy. Ms. Duggan and the Board Members will be our honored guests
Death, Sex and Money— A Bible Study Series Part 3: Heaven, Hell and Life After Death Thursday evenings at 7-8:30 PM May 7, 14, and 21 “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise,” Jesus said to one of the criminals who was crucified at his side. What does the Bible say about life after death? What is heaven (paradise) like? Is there a hell? Where do traditions like “the pearly gates” and Peter meeting us there come from?
We take a close look at what the Bible says about these things (or doesn’t say, as the case may be) while also looking at the traditions and teachings on heaven, hell, and resurrection throughout the history of the Church through art and writings from St. Augustine to Julian of Norwich. For more information, contact Pastor Susan at [email protected] or at (201) 288-6889.
THE TIDINGS
Page 6 May-June 2015
Men's Breakfast With Pastor Dreyman
Saturday, May 16 — 9 AM - 12 Noon
Breakfast and Trip to nearby Richard W. DeKorte Park & The Meadowlands Environment Center
— breakfast will be at Holy Trinity —
Call the church office to register.
Visitors and friends are welcome! Children, grandchildren and the youth of Holy Trinity
(accompanied by an adult) are also invited to this event!
Women, Wine and the Word * Friday, May 1 at 7 PM “Take Out, Eat In” Night Multi-purpose Room, Holy Trinity This is an opportunity for women to come together to build relationships, share in fellowship and explore God’s word. Pastor Susan will provide the wine!
RSVP to Pastor Susan at 201-288-6889 or e-mail her at [email protected].
*We will discuss the story of “the woman with the alabaster jar” as told in the gospel of Mark (14:3-9). You can download the text to read by going to the website: http://www.holytrinityhasbrouckheights.com/#/education/women-wine-and-the-word
READERS The next meeting of the Reader's Group will take place on Friday, May 22 at 6:30 PM, at the church in the multi-purpose room. The book we are now reading is Natchez Burning, by Greg Iles, the first installment of an epic trilogy that weaves crimes, lies and secrets into a mesmerizing thriller featuring southern mayor and former prosecutor, Penn Cage. Raised in the historic southern splendor of Natchez, Mississippi, Penn learned all he knows of honor and duty from his father, Dr. Tom Cage. But now, the beloved doctor is accused of murdering Viola Turner, the African-American nurse with whom he worked in the dark days of the l960's. Once a crusading prosecutor, Penn is determined to save his father, but Tom refuses to even speak in his own defense, stubbornly invoking doctor-patient privilege.
Penn's quest for the truth sends him deep into his father's past. Aided by a dedicated reporter privy to Natchez's oldest secrets and by his fiancee, Penn uncovers a trail of corruption and brutality and is forced to confront the most wrenching dilemma of his life: Does a man of honor choose his father or the truth?
If you’re interested in reading with us or would like more information, please call or e-mail Rita Krieger at 201-288-9256 or [email protected].
4-6 PM Our next “Knit and Crochet-In” will take place on Sunday, June 7, from 4–6 PM. If you are interested in knitting and/or crocheting, no matter what level you’re at, we invite you to attend.
Come, relax, meet new people and experience an afternoon of fellowship and fun! Bring a project you’ve been working on or want to start. Take advantage of simple instructions for knitting and crocheting. News of Holy Trinity’s Prayer Shawl Ministry, Warm Up America Foundation, and other programs that will welcome
our handmade shawls, hats, blankets and scarves is available. Patterns, ideas and other giveaways are also available.
Please call Dianna Mammone at 201-843-5769 to let her know you will attend. The event is open to the community. It will take place in the multi-purpose room. We look forward to seeing you there.
What’s your favorite hymn?
Here is your chance to nominate your favorite hymn to be sung at one of the summer Sunday services from June 28 through September 6.
You may nominate your hymn any time during the month of May. Let us know when you will be on vacation so we don’t schedule
your favorite hymn for a Sunday when you will be away.
Use this form to nominate your hymn—mail it in or place it in the offering plate on any Sunday during the month of May. Sorry—no nominations will be honored after May 31 !
Hymns will be scheduled throughout the summer as they are appropriate to the readings of the day.
My favorite hymn is: Name (optional): I will be away or on vacation on the following Sundays:
THE TIDINGS
Page 8 May-June 2015
THE TIDINGS
Given in Memory of: Given in Honor of:
Given by:
Quantity: X $10 = Total Amount Enclosed: $
DEADLINE FOR ORDERING IS SUNDAY, MAY 17 PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY AND COMPLETELY, AND
PLACE FORM WITH YOUR PAYMENT IN THE FOLDER PROVIDED ON THE SECRETARY’S DESK
CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES! Emma Frazee will be graduating from Hasbrouck Heights High School in June and will attend Kean University in the fall. She plans to major in psychology.
Charlie Hickey will graduate from Ramapo College in May with a B.A. in Communication Arts/Digital Film. He is currently working as a cameraman and post-production editor for Envision Studio in Hasbrouck Heights and will be working to build a client list as well.
Laura Hickey will graduate from Hasbrouck Heights High School in June and will begin her freshman year at Montclair State University in the fall. In the meantime, she will continue her work as a "referee" at Jump On In in Hasbrouck Heights.
Mariel Kunnapas will be graduating with honors from Ithaca College with a B.S. in Clinical Health Studies. She was also a captain of the swim team and a member of the dance team. She will continue her studies at Ithaca in the fall for a Doctorate in Physical Therapy.
Sara Kuzmenka will be graduating from the Bergen County Academies in Hackensack on June 24 and will be attending the University of Delaware in the fall. She was accepted into their honors program and will be majoring in Visual Communications (graphic design).
Meghan Lang will be graduating from Wood-Ridge High School. She will be attending Felician College to pursue a career in nursing and will continue to volunteer at Hackensack Hospital in surgical admissions. Meghan was one of 20 students admitted to Felician's Honors Program and awarded merit and presidential academic scholarships.
Kaitlyn Pirrello graduates with honors in May from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. Kaitlyn will have a degree in Interior Architectural Design and will continue working with an architec-tural firm in Wood-Ridge after touring the architecture of Vienna with a group from James Madison.
We wish all of our graduates the very best in their future endeavors and we pray that God will keep them in his care as they begin the next phase of their journey.
Please keep our graduates in your thoughts and prayers.
May-June 2015 Page 9
THE TIDINGS
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful people and kindle in us the fire of your love.
Cut here and place on your refrigerator as a reminder.
Christ is risen indeed!
Alleluia!
Page 10 May-June 2015
Keep up with Confirmation Class . . . On March 23, the Confirmation students concluded their study of the Exodus with a Seder for students and their families. We ended our Seder with Holy Communion and a discussion of the similarities and differences between the two sacred meals. Classes resumed in April and continue through May 18. Students will be taking a close look in the gospels at Jesus’ Beatitudes, his teachings, and his healings. On May 18, we conclude our first year of Confirmation with a blessing and sending of the students for summer.
Confirmation is just a step in a lifelong journey of faith and life. Please keep our Confirmation students in your prayers and encourage
and challenge them as they continue their journeys.
A Postcard from YG Detroit 2015 We are getting closer and closer. As of May 1, we have 74 days to go until we board the plane for Detroit. In March, we launched our ongoing T-shirt sales. T-shirts in both styles are still available. On April 25 we held our car wash with breakfast-on-the-go of bagels and coffee while you waited. Totals from these two fundraisers are not fully calculated yet but we are nearing our goal of raising $2500 to cover the cost of our airfare and hotel reservations.
On Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3 we will have a flower and baked-goods sale—just in time for Mother’s Day! Be sure to stop by the church on Saturday morning to buy some flowers and purchase a tasty home-baked treat! Please keep the YG Detroit 2015 Team in your prayers: Alexis, Michael and Tricia Fiore; Bobbi and Kathi Kelly; Barbara and Catherine Lucas; Jennifer, James and Laurie Varga; Rebecca and Alice Wright; and Pastor Susan. For information about purchasing a T-shirt, please contact one of the YG Detroit 2015 team members or Pastor Susan.
YG 2015 GIFT CARD REMINDER
Orders for gift cards are submitted the second and fourth Monday of each month and should be available for pick up at the church the following Sunday. For questions or orders, please contact me at [email protected]. Payment may be made by cash or by check made out to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. I can also be reached at 201-845-3286.
PARTNERS IN THE GOSPEL with the Spirit’s gifts, empower us for the work of ministry . . .
May-June 2015 Page 11
FROM THE PORCH . . .
TO THOSE IN NEED
Through the end of May, in honor of mothers everywhere, we will be collecting new baby items. We will be participating with “Operation Top Knot,” a program of Soldiers’ Angels, which provides baby showers for military families. Military deployment always brings loneliness but particularly so when a new child is born and families are separated. New mothers or expectant spouses of service members deployed, as well as active duty female members of our armed services, will receive these gifts as a reminder of our gratitude and support. Any new items you would normally bring to a baby shower — clothing, rattles, pacifiers, bibs, etc. may be given. New handmade items are also particularly appreciated — blankets, quilts, hats, booties, etc. Please leave your gifts in the bins provided on the porch or in the lobby.
Again, thank you for participating so generously in our ministries. Throughout the year, we try to find different projects and needs to address. It is our hope that some of them will touch your heart and that you will join us in . . .
God’s work, our hands!
THE TIDINGS
An Update and Reminder — Plastic Bags Are Still Needed for Mats for The Homeless
Debbie can still use plastic bags so keep them coming! She has completed 8 mats — only 2 more to go! She can be reached by e-mail at [email protected] or by phone at 201-820-1300, if you need further information.
Joyful Noise Ringers
Come Ring With Us!
Rehearsals - 7 PM Tuesday, May 12, and Wednesdays, May 27,
and June 3
There is a place for YOU in the handbell choir!
The Joyful Noise Ringers will perform next on June 7.
When you are away this summer, remember that the ministries and expenses of Holy Trinity never take a vacation. Please continue
to give your weekly offering — even if it is on your return — so, at summer’s end, our budget will be on track.
Forget-Me-Not
Don’t take the summer off !
We are fully air-conditioned!
Page 12 May-June 2015
COUNCIL O R N E R
APRIL 14, 2015
Current giving for 2015 is $3,257 ahead of 2014 totals at this time last year.
Attendance for March was strong, with a high of 63 for Palm Sunday. The
average Sunday attendance was 55.
The serving schedule will be posted on the Church website and will no longer be included
in The Tidings. Pastor will e-mail a copy to the servers and Council members will receive a copy in their mailboxes. A copy is also posted on the bulletin board outside of Pastor’s Office.
New holders for the candle lighters were purchased, along with wooden communion trays.
The final 2014-15 meeting of Women, Wine and the Word will be held on May 1, at the Church.
To Thrivent Financial, Chapter No. 31022, for the donation of $200 for WELCA projects and $1,000 for the Family Promise Homeless Dinner Program.
To everyone who served — from worship assis-tants, to readers, ushers and acolytes, the Joyful Noise Ringers and others who served during our Holy Week and Easter Day services to make the services go so smoothly and be so meaningful.
To everyone who provided dishes for the Easter Breakfast and to all who participated in the setting of tables and cleaning up after this event. Included in this group were Eleanor Altomare, Nancy Fanslau, Marge Heeren, Kathi Kelly, Rita Krieger, Angela Kuzmenka, Debbie Stelzle, Cindy Vicari, Alice Wright, Rebecca Wright and Pastor Susan. Thank you, also, to those of you who contributed but whose names we do not have.
To Charlie Davis, Rich Fanslau and Jim Smith for setting up the tables for the Easter Breakfast.
To all who pitched in to cook and serve the dinner for the homeless on April 15 and to Marge Heeren who has been coordinating the dinners throughout the year.
NEWS OF OUR CHURCH FAMILY Welcome Larry, Lisa, Lily and Jake . . .
With joy and thanksgiving, we welcomed Larry and Lisa Sandmeyer and their children, Lily and Jake, into our Holy Trinity family on Sunday, April 12. Please remember to keep them in your prayers, praying that their relationship to God will continue to deepen and grow as they participate with us in the life of our congregation.
New Address Although Ann Feltrin still resides at Fritz Reuter, please send all correspondence in c/o her daughter, Lori Franzoi (address on Page 15). New E-mail Address Chris Buxbaum: [email protected] Transfer Meghan Foster has transferred to Grace Lutheran Church, River Edge, NJ.
MAY 2015 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
7-9 pm Women, Wine and the Word Multi-purpose
Room
2
10 am-1 pm YG 2015
Mother’s Day Flower & Bake
Sale 3 Easter V
9:15 am Sunday School
10:30 am
Holy Communion
11:30 am Coffee Hour
11:45 am
YG 2015 Mother’s Day Flower & Bake Sale
4
7-8:15 pm Confirmation
Class
5
7:15 pm Church Council
6 7
10:30 am WELCA
7-8:30 pm Bible Study
Death, Sex and Money
8 9
10 Easter VI 9:15 am
Second Sunday Family Service
10:30 am Holy Communion
11:30 am Coffee Hour
Mother’s Day
11
7-8:15 pm Confirmation
Class
12
7-8 pm Joyful Noise Ringers
13
11-11:30 am Wellington Hall Holy Communion
14
7-8:30 pm Bible Study
Death, Sex and Money
15 16 9 am-noon Men’s
Breakfast and Trip to
DeKorte Park & Environment
Center Multi-purpose
Room
17 Easter VII
9:15 am Sunday School
10:30 am
Holy Communion
11:30 am Coffee Hour
18
7-8:15 pm Confirmation
Class Pizza Party & Send-Off
19 20
21
7-8:30 pm Bible Study
Death, Sex and Money
22
6:30 pm Readers
Multi-purpose Room
23
24 Day of Pentecost
Sunday School Summer Recess Begins
10:30 am Holy Communion
11:30 am Coffee Hour
25 CHURCH OFFICE CLOSED
Memorial Day
26
7 pm Outreach
27 11-11:30 am
Wellington Hall Holy Communion
7-8 pm
Joyful Noise Ringers
28 29 30
31 Trinity Sunday
10:30 am Holy Communion
11:30 am
Coffee Hour
Page 14 May-June 2015
JUNE 2015 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3
7-8 pm Joyful Noise Ringers
4
WELCA 10:30 am
5
5
7 Pentecost II
9:50 am Joyful Noise Ringers
10:30 am Holy Communion
11:30 am Coffee Hour
4-6 PM Knit & Crochet In
8
7 pm Stewardship
9
7:15 pm Church Council
10
11-11:30 am Wellington Hall Holy Communion
11 12 13
14 Pentecost III
10:30 am Holy Communion
11:30 am Coffee Hour
Tidings Articles Due July/August
15 16 17 18 19 20
21 Pentecost IV
10:30 am Holy Communion
11:30 am Coffee Hour
Father’s Day/ Summer Begins
22 23 24
11-11:30 am Wellington Hall Holy Communion
25 26 27
28 Pentecost V
10:30 am Holy Communion
11:30 am Coffee Hour
29 30 July 1 July 2 July 3
Church Office Closed
July 4
Independence
Day
June 4-6 – NJ Synod Assembly, Long Branch, NJ
May - June
Sharon Ramsaier Elliot Eddy Jack Gaige
Alexis Ayers Dorothy Heflich Kelly L’Heureux Yvonne Cubero
Karen Niestempski Katrina Kunnapas
Edward Taylor Sara Mammone
Pastor Charles Austin Stephanie Crane
Rita Krieger William Manasia
Pastor Wayne Dreyman Eleanor Burleson Elaine Manning
Gail Heck Jamie DeCicco
Gary Varga Lauren Perez
Matthew Gugliotti Daniella Landicho Ursula Steinhauff Anthony Palkowitz Kathryn Morrison
George Moser Mike Ramsaier
May-June 2015 Page 15
Please remember our Shut-ins and Hospitalized Members
with visits, cards and prayers!
Ann Feltrin
Marion Lawler
Lois Nitus
Doris Schwarz
Wolfgang A. Steinhauff
Joan Yanik
THE TIDINGS
May - June
Anniversaries
Herb and Chris Burniston John and Dorothy Heflich Vinnie and Jamie De Cicco
IN MEMORIAM In Memory Of Given By Elizabeth Siemer Peggy Von Bargen Carol Johnson
Ruth Miller Martha Cambeis Erich’s Welding Service LLC Mr. & Mrs. Elmer Heinrich Mr. & Mrs. Dina Diamondis
Ben Amoroso Terry Mills
For I was hungry, and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me." -Matt. 25:35
Dear Friends in Christ,
It is hard to fully express our gratitude for all your caring during David's recent surgery. When we were scared, you comforted us. When we were too tired to pray, we knew you were praying for us. You fed us, and celebrated his recovery with us.
Our whole family knows how lucky we are to have our Faith family with us. Thank you so much for all your love and caring and support during our challenging times.
Dianna & David Mammone
Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Permit No. 340 Hackensack, N.J.
The following is a list of urgently needed items in our food pantry. There is a bin in the lobby for your donations. Supermarket Gift Cards Rice Canned Hearty Soups Instant Potatoes Canned Meat 100% Fruit Juices (tuna, chicken, etc.) Baby Formula Canned Vegetables Diapers (Sizes 4,5, & 6) Peanut Butter & Jelly Paper Products Macaroni & Cheese Toothpaste Cereal Toothbrushes (low sugar kids cereal) Shampoo Dry Milk or boxed Parmalat Bar Soap Canned Fruits
If you are reading this newsletter of the people of Holy Trinity in Hasbrouck Heights and are either looking for a church home or are just interested in finding out more about what goes on at Holy Trinity, we invite you to come and worship with us or to call the church office at 201-288-6889. Our Pastor, The Rev. Susan Nelson-Colaneri, can also be reached on her cell phone at 973-980-2367 or at [email protected]. If you should call the church office and get an answering machine, please be assured that your call will be returned at our first available moment.
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
COME WORSHIP WITH US
Sundays 10:30 AM – Service of Holy Communion
Coffee Fellowship After the Service
9:15 AM – 2nd Sunday of Each Month Service of Holy Communion
Sunday Church School Summer Recess Begins May 24, 2015
www.holytrinityhasbrouckheights.com
The Ministers . . . . . . . . .The People of Holy Trinity Pastor . . . . . . . . .The Rev. Susan Nelson-Colaneri [email protected] 201-288-6889 Pastoral Associate.The Rev. Dr. E. Wayne Dreyman
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
John 8:36 (NIV) This month we celebrate a very special holiday. It is called Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a day on which we stop to remember and to honor the men and women who died in military service while fighting to defend the cause of freedom.
We enjoy a lot of freedom in our country. We are free to attend church and worship, we are free to choose what we want to be when we grow up, we are free to choose where we want to live, we are free to choose most of the things that affect our daily lives. Yes, we enjoy our freedom, but that freedom wasn't free. Many courageous men and women gave their lives to pay the price for the freedom that you and I enjoy. These are the ones that we honor when we celebrate Memorial Day at the end of May.
Yes, we enjoy a lot of freedom, but the greatest freedom that we have is the freedom that we have in Christ Jesus. The Bible teaches that the penalty for sin is death, but you and I have been set free from this penalty. We have been set free because Jesus paid the penalty. The Bible tells us that Jesus died to set us free from the penalty of sin. Instead of death, we have been given eternal life. This freedom wasn't free, Jesus paid the price.
This month as we celebrate Memorial Day, let us remember to stop and thank God for those who have paid the price for our freedom. Let us also remember to thank God for Jesus, who has set us free from the penalty for sin because he was willing to pay the price.
