August
27
2010
Do you need a “pick me up”? Well a prayer partner may be just what you need! Go to Wilton Hall where you will find a Prayer Partner form on the bulletin board. Fill one out, leave it in the basket and you will be given the name of someone to pray for from October – May. In turn, someone will receive your name and pray for you. On May 22nd we will gather for a pot luck lunch to reveal our partners.
What could be a quicker picker upper? If you have any questions please contact Ann Wallis at 261-2469 or annwall@charter.net
August
26
2010
Birth Announcements
Sierra Avery Olson was born July 31 to Summer Ziegler and Jason Olson. The proud grandparents are Gail & Bob Olson and aunt Missy Olson.
Our Condolences
Sue Granello’s father, Brian Terwilliger died August 15th. Our thoughts and prayers are with Susan and her family.
August
26
2010
Pastor Pete and Pastor Jenn are offering a ten-week course for adults in the church designed to help learn the basics of our faith and tradition. You will connect with other adults on a spiritual level, and deepen or begin on your own journey of faith. We will meet for 10 sessions, 8pm until 9:30:
- Sept 29
- Oct 6 & 20
- Nov 17
- Dec 1
- Jan 5 & 12
- Feb 2, 9 & 16
We will celebrate adult confirmands in worship on Feb 27th, 2011.
A sign up sheet is posted in Wilton Hall. Please contact Pastor Pete or Pastor Jenn with any questions.
August
26
2010
Calling all 9th graders and your parents! Please be sure to come to 10:30 worship on September 19. During the service, this year’s Confirmands will be dedicated and will receive Bibles. Afterwards, there will be a brief orientation for students and parents, to be held in Dineson Parlor. Our first Wednesday evening Confirmation meeting will take place on September 22 at 6:30 p.m.
August
26
2010
Thank you to all that contributed to this year’s summer project. We will soon be sending 5 complete Emergency Clean-up Buckets off to the Church World Service organization.
Church World Service works with partners to eradicate hunger and poverty and to promote peace and justice around the world. Over 80% of their funds go towards activities that are primarily humanitarian assistance and development and refugee assistance and redevelopment. They provide immediate support in the wake of such natural disasters as Katrina, the Haiti earthquake, and now the flooding in Pakistan. See www.churchworldservice.org for additional information.
The Board of Outreach would like to make an additional donation to support this organization’s work in Pakistan. You may make a contribution during Sunday collections or directly to church office.
August
26
2010
Please consider a donation to supply a child in the care of DCF with much needed school supplies & a book bag. Or shop for a needy child while you shop for your own child! We have MANY children who need our help to give them a good start to the new school year! There is a poster in Wilton Hall with tags for the children.
Please have your donations in by Sunday September 5th.
Suggestions:
Monetary Donations
“Little Kid” Book Bag with Supplies
$15.00 each
”Big Kid” Book Bag with Supplies
(includes a calculator & highlighter)
$25.00 each
Checks should be made out to M.C.C. and “memo-ed” for Covenant to Care/School.
Book Bag suggestions:
notebooks, ruler, double pocket folders, blue/ black, red pens, pencils, glue dispenser, glue stick,
highlighter, scissors, and a box of Crayola Crayons. (Great for Teen Book Bags, include a Texas
Instrument’s Scientific Calculator. Small Children would also benefit from instructional work/color books
and story books.)
The children and I thank you for your support!
Peace, Diane Prall, Covenant to Care Liason for MCC
August
26
2010
Dear Church Members and Friends,
Can you “leap tall buildings in a single bound?” Are you “faster than a speeding bullet?” The answers are “YES!” because you are a part of the life and ministries of Monroe Congregational Church.
“Super Stewards” is the theme of our 2011 Stewardship campaign. Stewardship means being faithful managers of all that GOD has given to us and being a “Super Steward” of our resources means that we recognize that everything belongs to God. The confidence that God inspires enables us to give generously with joy, thanksgiving and praise. Giving testifies what God does to make life far greater than its problems. We participate in God’s mission as we share God’s gifts with others.
The goals of our 2011 campaign include increasing participation to 175 pledges and $300,000. We are confident we can achieve these goals with your support. You can follow our progress on Sunday mornings during the campaign when our “Super Steward” updates the congregation and there will be a poster in Wilton Hall celebrating our MCC “Super Stewards” and our successes.
In the coming weeks, we are asking for special groups to turn in their pledge cards in advance to help us launch our campaign. Our “Super Steward” is going to eliminate four myths about Stewardship. Letters with more information and your pledge cards will be mailed in mid September. Stewardship Sunday is October 24th. We will celebrate with a special coffee hour between services and ask that all pledge cards be turned in at this time if you haven’t already done so.
Thank you for your generous and continuing support of “Super Stewards” at MCC. Please contact a member of the Stewardship Committee if you have any questions or would like more information.
In Christ’s Service,
Karen Goul, Elizabeth Sampson, Alan Vaglivelo and Bruce Gran
Chairperson
Stewardship Committee
August
26
2010
All 61 sr. PFers, Young Adult Advisors and Adult Advisors on the levee in New Orleans
Emily's Team hard at work for victims of Hurrican Katrina
Zak Wilgan & Shane Sapak hard at work for our neighbors
To the MCC Community,
I had the wonderful opportunity to accompany the Senior PF to NOLA. I wish I could put into words what the experience was like. I can’t though. Have you ever experienced something that if you tried you couldn’t even scratch the surface? Or, you would ruin it with words? Like any experience it is always personal. You get out what you put in. Only God, has the words to honor the Senior PF who gave unconditionally to those in need on and in their journey to NOLA.
The trip was not in the lap of luxury by any means. I witnessed wonderful, caring, loving kids who worked very hard in the heat and hot baking sun. The work that they accomplished even an adult would find difficult. They kids were resilient. They held each other up. They watched and took care of each other as they gave back to a community in need. The devastation that still exists after Katrina, would make the hair on your arms stand up. THESE KIDS GET IT!!!!! They brought me to tears in what I witnessed from them. Trust me it was more than once that I broke down in tears. What a feeling as I watched and worked besides these kids. As a parent, you should be so proud of them. You are very lucky to have such wonderful kids that want to do everything in their power to make a difference in the world and in society.
I was given a gift to witness and travel and be a part of these beautiful kids journey for one week. This experience will last a life time for me. I watched them dance, play, work, sweat and collapse in exhaustion. I heard them sing, pray, laugh, joke, cry, share and question. They were rebuilding internally and externally. You could not help but see God, in each and every one of them.
As, I think about the trip and the experience all the way around from beginning to end I start to laugh. Who had it better than me? I realize I am the lucky one. These kids are our future. I will always follow these special PF kids. They are going make the world a better place for you and me to live in. They have my vote!
Thank you to all the Senior PF for allowing me to travel and be a part of that special week. I’ll always have your back and I know you’ll always have mine. I love you. Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Love to everyone at MCC , Always, Paulette
August
26
2010
Julie McClenathan will be hosting the September book club at her home, 10 Millo Drive, Monroe on Sept. 15 at 7:30 to discuss Hannah’s Daughters and The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet. They will be choosing some books for the next few month’s reading so please come with some suggestions. If you have any questions please contact Julie at 203-261-0360
August
26
2010
Please put January 7-9 on your calendar for this year’s Men’s Retreat to Silver Lake. Look for the signup sheet in Wilton Hall.
August
26
2010
We will gather in Dineson Parlor at 9 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month, starting September 8. Please join us for a simple meal, hot coffee, friendly conversation, and Bible study.
August
26
2010
Men’s Fellowship will meet in Dineson Parlor on the second Wednesday of each month, from 8-9:30 p.m., beginning September 8. Come be a part of this supportive group of guys. Each month, share your highs and lows and enjoy discussions focused on what it means to be a man of faith in this time and place.
August
26
2010
On Sunday, September 12, from 6-8:30 p.m., all high school students are welcome to the Allen’s house (11 Hamlet Lane) to start the Sr. PF year! PF will continue to meet on Sunday evenings from 6-8:30 at the church. For your calendars: Our annual Fall Retreat to Silver Lake will be September 24-26.
August
26
2010
On Labor Day weekend, September 5, we will hold one worship service at 9 a.m. We will return to our two-service schedule (8:45 and 10:30) the following week, September 12.
August
26
2010
Ministry Spotlight On: Mustard Seed Thrift Shoppe
The Mustard Seed Thrift Shoppe is one of the gems of the Monroe Congregational Church. Started in the early 60’s by hardworking and loyal volunteers, it has filled our community’s need for gently used, reasonably priced clothing, toys and household goods ever since.
Did you ever shop at the Mustard Seed? I hope that you have! The store is open Thursday & Friday from 9-3 and Saturday from 11-2. You can find all kinds of things there; it is a great place to find kid’s clothing, maternity wear, and even men’s suits! The stock changes pretty quickly, so visit often.
When we donate our gently used items, we are not only providing items to be sold to support the ministry and mission of MCC, but we’re also keeping used items out of landfills – what a great way to stay green! You can drop off yours in the white bin on the side of the building anytime.
I am truly thankful for the help that I have received from the Mustard Seed. When I set up my office, they generously provided bookcases. When our mission team was planning to go to Oaxaca, they provided some needed financial support. When I heard about a mom who was homeless and struggling, Mustard Seed allowed her to “shop” for free, and select needed household items and clothing for herself and her children.
However, in order to keep the Mustard Seed a thriving part of MCC’s outreach ministry, volunteers are always needed.
¯ Can you hang clothes on a hanger? Then you are already trained to sort, tag and hang with us on Mondays at 12:30 p.m.
¯ Are you a member of MCC? We’d love to train you as a sales associate during our regular business hours,
¯ Do you have any special skills in marketing or retail? We could use your expertise!
So, I just want to say to all the Mustard Seed Shoppe volunteers, a big “thank you” for all that you do to support our community. And, I’d like to extend an invitation to you to come and help! It’s time well spent. If you are interested in lending a hand, please call the Shoppe at 203-468-4879.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
August
26
2010
God’s Embrace
Some of us have secure, loving homes and some of us do not. But no matter what, each of us has a home in God’s Spirit and a home waiting for us here at MCC.
Come celebrate our wonderful church family on September 12! We will return to our two-service schedule (8:45 and 10:30) that day. At both coffee hours, you can enjoy good food and conversation, learn about ways to be involved this year, and sign up for fellowship groups, musical ensembles, retreats, learning an helping opportunities, etc. That’s also the first day of Sunday school for our kids. I look forward to seeing you there!
Peace,
Pete
August
13
2010
The Board of Outreach is facilitating this summer project which will enable us to help in disaster areas around the world. Our collection wraps up on August 22. There are a few remaining tags left in Wilton Hall. For more information, you can visit the Church World Service site: http://www.churchworldservice.org/kits_emergency
August
13
2010
Come away with us to Silver Lake in Sharon, CT for a weekend of family-friendly games, discussion and worship. We’ll also spend time together on age-appropriate work projects to give back to our wider church community. Families of all ages, shapes and sizes are welcome! Four delicious meals and lodging in the Retreat Center (RC) for the weekend costs $110 per adult, $100 children under 10 years of age. Space is limited: Please sign up in Wilton Hall today!
A 50% deposit is required by August 30. Please make checks payable to MCC with “Fall Family Retreat” in the memo line and leave in Pastor Jenn’s mailbox. Contact Judi Polizzotti or the church office with any questions
August
13
2010
What is that exactly? It is someone who is an authorized messenger or representative. Every member of our congregation is an “Every Sunday” ambassador. You are charged with the responsibilities of seeking out those who are new to our church, those who attend frequently or rarely, have returned or your neighbor. You will welcome them, shake hands with many when passing the peace, ask them to sign the pew pads, have them write their information in the book in the Narthex and lastly, invite them to coffee hour. In this informal setting of Wilton Hall, converse over a cup of tea or coffee, get to know them a bit and ask them to come again. It is not just the responsibility of the Board of Christian Fellowship to foster relationships with others; the whole congregation works at this goal too. So what do you say? Take on the challenge of being an “Every Sunday” Ambassador by signing up to be a greeter, wear your name tag every Sunday, volunteer to serve at the second coffee hour or circulate and mingle while having your coffee or tea.
Speaking of coffee … we have a new signup sheet for those wishing to cover the cost of the coffee and supplies necessary to have successful coffee hours. We are now purchasing our coffee from Simply Smiles. The other supplies like tea and cups will still come from Equal Exchange. The donation is $45 made out to MCC with Coffee Hour on the subject line. You can also share the cost with another person and split the price. Please leave your payment in the Receiver’s mail slot in the church office. Thanks so much for your donations.
The signup sheet for coffee hour help has also been updated. Please see the clipboard on the serving counter at each coffee hour. There is always someone to help you; so you’re not alone. You just need to leave the second service a little early, go to the kitchen, start a pot of hot water, pour out a few cups of coffee, take out a few mugs, place the milk on the table, clean up and you’re done within 45 mins. Hang out at the counter, chat with friends and serve coffee and tea at the same time. Please contact Susie Cuseo if you have any questions.
The Board of Christian Fellowship appreciates any ideas you may have regarding any new events that you would like to see at MCC. Events that promote socialization at many age levels, fun and interesting are what we are looking for. Contact Clark Gingras or Susie Cuseo with your ideas.
On behalf of the Board of Christian Fellowship, have a wonderful rest of your summer and we’ll see you at our numerous events held here at MCC.
Yours in Faith, Susie Cuseo
August
13
2010
Morning Circle has been off for the summer but we’re still working on a few things for the upcoming church calendar. We are collecting 32 oz. jars for our Bean Soup Recipe that go to the Food Pantry in October. We are shopping at tag sales and any place else for items that make up the Church World Service Layette kits like, baby washcloths, cloth diapers, diaper pins, gowns, sweaters and receiving blankets, seeking sizes from newborn to nine months. Any donation is graciously accepted and can be placed in the bin outside the church office during business hours or on Sunday. We also have a closet full of multi-colored yarn for those who knit and/or crochet. Someone is available to open the closet in Dineson Parlor from Monday to Friday 9-4 or during worship time on Sundays.
Do you have the second Wednesday of most months free? Morning Circle would love to have you join us while we socialize, work on a service project and share a meal. Please contact Jackie Bleakney at 268-5275 if you are interested in joining us.