from the April 2007 issue of The Spire

InSPIREd

Dear Friends,

First of all, please accept my apologies for the brevity of this edition of The Spire. Due to another turnover in our office staff, a full edition this month is just not possible. But very important information regarding Holy Week worship services, an upcoming congregational meeting, etc. is included. I hope you'll read every word.

A pivotal celebration in the life of the church is that of Easter. Christians consider the reality of physical death and then marvel at the seemingly unbelievable aspect of resurrection. Make no mistake: this is a matter of great substance and needs to be a focus of thought, ponderance, and prayer throughout the life of every faithful Christian. For many, however, this is seldom accomplished due to the lostness of the observance.

Nutritious eggs are carefully emptied of their contents so that their shells can be beautifully decorated and preserved. Hams are prepared for dinner but become secondary to their thick, rich glazes of maple and honey. Why do we always want to place appearance and taste above substance and meaning?

Sometimes it seems that darkness is about to envelop us. We are overwhelmed by wars, famines, diseases, heartaches, addictions, hopelessness and despair. But a beautiful light shines forth from the barrenness of the empty tomb. It lights the way to peace, health, and wholeness. Think about that.

The light of Christ is hope for the world!

Sincerely,
J. Douglas Patterson

John Thomas, guest preacher

We are pleased to announce that the Rev. John Thomas will be preaching at the 11:00 a.m. worship service on Sunday, April 15. His sermon title will be "The Risen Christ Is the Wounded Christ," based on John 20:19-31. A reception will follow.

John Thomas was elected General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ at the General Synod in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1999. He serves as one of five officers of the Church, comprising the Collegium of Officers that guides the national ministries of the United Church of Christ.

As General Minister and President, Rev. Thomas is the presiding officer of the Collegium, is charged with the care and nurture of the spiritual life of the Church, is the principal spokesperson of the General Synod, and is the official representative of the Church in ecumenical and interfaith relations.

Rev. Thomas is a graduate of Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania (1972) and Yale University Divinity School (1975).

We've had a steady increase in visits to the Smithfield website since the new site made its appearance in September, moving from 3303 "hits" (visits to site) in August to 15,105 in September and 19,932 in December. Then came the fire and a huge jump to 65,867. It was clear that not only was the general public coming to the site to learn more about the fire and about Smithfield Church but so also were the local news organizations looking for background information. Not surprisingly hits for February were down, but still consistent with the steady normal increase of visits with 24,180.

We encourage you to visit the site regularly and to tell friends, neighbors, and relatives about it. The site's main page is updated weekly to provide information about the coming Sunday and upcoming events. If you spot errors or would like to recommend additions to the site or share photographs, please contact Peggy Neal at pgyneal@yahoo.com.

Sunday, April 1, Palm Sunday: Worship at 11:00 a.m. with distribution of palms. Our special "One Great Hour of Sharing" offering will be received. Luncheon will follow at the Smithfield Cafe.

Wednesday, April 4: Noon worship at 12:10 p.m.

Thursday, April 5: Maundy Thursday: Worship at 7:30 p.m. Holy Communion will be celebrated. All are welcome to commune.

Friday, April 6, Good Friday: Worship at 12:10 p.m. with readings and meditations surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus.

Sunday, April 8, Easter: Worship at 11:00 a.m., with joyous music and the celebration of Holy Communion. All are welcome to commune.

Please join us for worship!

A congregational meeting will be held on Sunday, April 22, immediately following morning worship. Agenda topics will include updates on facilities, finances, and strategic planning. Notices will be mailed to all members.

The Spring Meeting will be held on Sunday, April 29, from 12:30-4:00 p.m. at St. John's United Church of Christ in Evans City. Registration information is available through the church office, and all are welcome to attend.

The Women's Fellowship continues the selling of the following items throughout April (in their meeting room):

• Church sweatshirts (adult and youth sizes)
• Knives
• Candles

The UCC Coffee Project is an ongoing ministry of our church. See Connie Connelly to replenish your supply of fairly-traded coffee and tea. Proceeds benefit our congregation's Summer Camp. (Photograph courtesy of Amy Hansen: Costa Rican Co-op El Dos member Alba Luz picking ripe coffee cherries. From Trans Fair USA)

Drum Circle

Once a month drum circles with Jim Donovan continue to grow in numbers and enthusiasm. They are held on Thursdays from noon until 1 p.m. The cost is $10.00 per person. Drums are provided. Beginners are absolutely welcome! The next Drum Circle will be on April 19th.

We Get Letters

March 2007

Thank you so much for having us worship with you on March 11. We really enjoyed participating in the service and we all felt so welcomed by you and your congregation! Congratulations on your 225th Anniversary, and may God bless the next 225 years of service in your church. Thank you again for your invitation and hospitality!

Karin Rowe and the Pittsburgh Temple Band (Salvation Army)

March 2007

Please find enclosed a check to help with the expenses associated with your fire. We are sorry it could not be larger. Your kindness and generosity in our time of need cannot be repaid. We are still using the hymnals you sent us after our fire. Every time we look at the cover of the hymnals stamped with the name of your church, we remember your generosity. Peace and love to you.

The Congregation of the Masontown United Methodist Church

Back to current newsletter

  – through you and me!

5/11/07
Copyright © 2006-2007, Smithfield United Church of Christ. All rights reserved.