The Quarterly meeting

On Sunday we had our Quarterly meeting and discussed a few things that will impact our congregation in subtle ways over the next few years. After it was determined that we had a quorum, we approved the minutes of the Annual Meeting. Moderator Curt Brockway announced that any written reports would be posted on the bulletin board at church next week.

As we moved into old business Ray Deptulski, Property Committee Chairman, talked about the two furnaces at church. He shared the fact that both of them were on their way out. The furnace that supplies heat to the sanctuary is about fifty years old and not very efficient. The boiler that services the rest of the building, including Fellowship Hall, the Chapel and office area is about thirty years old but in even worse shape. He suggested that act proactively and replace both furnaces.

Ray is soliciting prices right now. He has even talked to the folks at Norwich Tech about doing the project as part of their training program. This would save us a good deal of money. He will come back to us with prices and a recommendation from the Property Committee and Board of Trustees at our next meeting. But first Ray proposed removing the asbestos on the pipes in the basement. This has to be done before we do any work. It is a health hazard and he has a bid to do the work.

We voted to approve the expenditure of $5200 to remove the asbestos. We also affirmed his efforts to get prices on replacing the heating system. If you have thoughts on whether we should go with oil or gas or anything else, talk to Ray or a member of the Property Committee about it.

Ray also mentioned the possibility of the school doing the work in the kitchen. Which brings me to the second big discussion. Last summer we made plans to renovate the kitchen. We had every intention of doing it over the winter months but then the economy went south. At the Annual meeting we decided to put it off to this summer but we had trouble bringing together a Capital Campaign Committee.

After a discussion we decided to investigate the costs of having the tech school do the work and also asked for volunteers to serve on the Capital Campaign Committee. This committee would develop the plan to raise the money for both of these projects. Volunteers included June Deptulski, Sue Ferguson, Amanda Duntz and Fred Green. So stay tuned for more news on all these things.

We also voted to approve the expenditure of $500 for the Appalachian Mission Trip from the Biennial Trip category in the budget. I told the group that I was not planning on attending the ABCUSA Biennial in Pasadena, California this summer for a few reasons. The motion was made and approved.

Finally, Mary Brockway asked for approval to hold a tag sale on the last Saturday of May. She said the Tag Sale would not be done as we have in the past. We would sell tables and allow members and friends of the church to price and bring in their stuff to sell. They would pay us $25 for the space and then keep whatever they made. We would sell for or have our own fundraising efforts as well. At the end of the day everyone would be responsible for their own clean up.

We adjourned the meeting at 12:50 p.m.

Cal

Celebrating our victories on and off the court.

We had a great day in church as we celebrated the conclusion of our Winter Basketball season. We welcomed those kids and their parents who were able to be with us. They came up front and Fred Green presented them a trophy for winning the Varsity Division. I gave them certificates and team photos to take home with them.

Our praise team sang and got everyone up on their feet. Newcomer Taylor Chaffee (One of our basketball players) made her debut with the group and she did very well. Cliff Vanase came back to do a guest performance with the group too and it featured a guitar solo. They sang the song "Promises" which was written by Steve Contois.

I picked up on that and rolled it into my sermon. I talked about how important game plans are. Citing the excitement around March Madness, I reminded everyone that team success doesn't just happen. It takes planning and cooperation. Then I talked about God's plan to send Jesus into the world, a plan that was hinted at by the prophet Jeremiah in our text. Then I pointed out that once we have been forgiven, God's plan is for us to go out into the world to share that news. In effect, God's game plan to save the world includes us.

Michelle Chaffee captured the praise team singing on video and so here it is for you to enjoy again, or if you missed it, to see what you missed.

Cal

Saturday activities

Today should be an interesting day. I am heading up to Sterling for the Blue and Gold Banquet for Cub Scout Pack 23. Jacob Kreger will be one of the Cub Scouts in attendance. I have been one of the guests asked to speak a little bit about what I do.

This afternoon I will be preparing for our Basketball Recognition Worship service tomorrow morning. I've already made up the certificates and now have to print some photos. Of course, I also have to finish up the sermon.

Later this evening I will be heading over to the Quaker Hill Baptist Church to watch attend a movie and discussion on the book "Lord Save Us From Your Followers" by Dan Merchant. Right now Muriel Roderick and Amanda Duntz are going with me. Meet us at the church at 6:20 p.m. if you want to come.

Cal

Using what we have for God

Buenas Nuevas held a youth concert at church tonight. They invited several other congregations to join them. The thought hit me that this young church feels at home in our building. We have done a good job in showing them our hospitality.

Now I know that we bear the brunt of expenses for keeping the building up and running. But I like to think that we have this building to worship in because others have paid the price for us. We didn't build it. We didn't do anything to deserve it. We inherited it from those who went before us. So now we can take this resources and use it for God's glory.

When 150 Hispanic kids are praising God on a Friday night, I think we have done a great thing. All we did was open the door and let God into the house. The truth is that ministry happens whenever we take what God has given us and let him use the way he sees fit. We get blessed because we get a front row seat.

Cal

Looking ahead

On Wednesday night we gathered at United Congregational Church for our weekly get together on the Road to Jerusalem. Rev. John Lancz gave the message and talked about the spirit of God walking with us on the road. He actually began with the scripture that told of Mary's visit by the angel to proclaim that she was going to be the mother of the Lord.

After the service we went down stairs for coffee and fellowship. I think that is the best part of these services. You get to say hello to everyone and catch up with old friends. Next week we finish up the series at Central Baptist. I hope you will join us if you are free.

I just want to give you a quick update on our upcoming services as we head into Holy Week. First off this week we will celebrate with our Basketball team and recognize their great season in the Church League. Coaches Len Miller and Thom Outlow will be present with the kids and their families. The message will be "Invited to be are part of God's Game Plan."

On Sunday, April 5th we will kick off Holy with the annual Men's Communion Service at Central Baptist Church. At 7:00 a.m. we will gather to hear Frank Burchell and then share the bread and cup together. Following the service we will head upstairs for a breakfast cooked by Mark Hopkins and the men of Central Baptist.

At our church we will remember Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and then celebrate the blessings of family with Mark and Fran Rogers as they bring Julia forward in a service of family dedication. We will close our service around the communion table.

On Thursday we will relive the last supper and hear Jesus words to his disciples in a special dramatic service. Come be a part of it at 7:00 p.m.

On Good Friday we will participate in the Annual Way of the Cross walk starting at 6:00 p.m. at Chelsea Parade. It is a very moving procession that allows us to remember Jesus and his great love for us on that fateful day.

On Easter Sunday morning we will gather at 6:30 a..m at Howard Brown Park for the annual Sunrise Service. We will raise our voices in praise and celebration. It is the best service of the year. Rev. Jeff Sharp of the Norwich Worship Center will share the message and I will be leading the singing again.

At 10:30 a.m. we will pack the church and sing the great songs of faith. Our choir will sing. We will have special music and I hope to share a message that will inspire you. It will be a great way to end a spirit filled week.

So there you have it. Now mark your calendars and make it a point to join us.

Cal

A celebration of our trip to Mexico

One month ago today we left for Mexico on our Mission adventure and last night we wrapped up the experience by hosting dessert and tales from the Mission Field at church. Several of the participants were present and after we enjoyed a bevy of low calorie desserts and a music video filled with slides and songs from our trip, a few of us shared what the experience meant to us.

George Rezendes talked about the way working with his hands was a blessing compared to the mental work he does every day. Knowing that you were working with people who really appreciated what you were doing was a gift. He also said that he came back with a sense that he was blessed. Michelle Chaffee shared the fact that she came back with more patience than she had when she left. The things she thought were so important before, that got her going, all fell into perspective. Stacy Sedotti said that she had a really good time and was glad she was able to help while getting to know new people. Erica Corbett said that it changed her life. She never really wanted to go to church before the trip and now she is going and she enjoys it and it has changed her life. Nancy Allen said she was moved by how so many people could get along even though they were thrown together in less than ideal circumstances. You could feel something special was happening. Rob Wagner spoke for both he and Julie when he said that they felt blessed to be part of such a group. Julie's prayer was that these people they were going with wouldn't be "wierd" and that both of them came away blessed to know so many wonderful new friends. Mark Kane talked about feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit all week long. June Deptulski shared that she was moved to realize that people they met last year remembered us and that even though we didn't think we were doing much, we made a big impression on them.

Doreen Mainville went on the first mission trip in 2007 and she said that she was ready to go again. After watching the slide presentation, I think many in the room felt the same way. I shared the fact that we were very appreciative of all the prayers, encouragement and financial resources that the churches and many individuals shared to make the trip possible. The truth is that this was an effort made possible by our congregations. Those who went to Mexico were very much aware that they were bringing the love and support of all of the people back home.

Michelle Madsen Bibeau reminded all of us that Rick and Mercy really need our prayers and financial support going forward. International Ministries cannot continue to support them in the same way so they have to ask us for funds to undergird the work they are doing. If you want to help, you can speak to Michelle or me about making a gift directly to their ministry. Right now any gift of $200 or more will be matched with an equal gift by a benefactor through June 1, 2009.

Melanie Scheuermann took a few photos from last night. Enjoy them.

Cal

P.S. If you missed the slide show last night, we will be playing it in its entirety on Palm Sunday during the Sunday School hour in the sanctuary. Come and be inspired.

A Sunday reunion

Sundays are always special at church. It is like a family reunion. After a busy week out in the world, we get together again to renew our acquaintances while our faith is informed. I know everyone doesn't know everyone. But I know my heart leaps when I see the people I have gotten close to over the years and I have heard several people say the same thing.

If you don't feel this way yet, then you need to find a way to get involved in one of our ministries so you can get to know some people. For example yesterday afternoon Amanda Duntz and I went over to St, Mark's for the volunteer appreciation luncheon. As I was there I thought about all the folks who have volunteered at least once to serve the hungry in this special ministry. Just spending a few hours setting the tables, pouring the punch, waiting tables and vacuuming and cleaning up with others brings you closer. You talk, you share a little bit of yourself and before you know it you have a new friend. The great part about these type of events is that you are also doing something meaningful.

Anyway back at church we celebrated the beginning of Spring with a service that highlighted the verse where Jesus talks about being "born again" or the need to experience a new birth. I went on to say that once we realize it isn't what we know but who we know, our life starts over.

Joshua Ziemski finished up his second week filling in for Adele at the organ, We brought him out and showed our appreciation for his service. Lori Lord accompanied the choir on the anthem and we finished the service just after 11:30 a.m.

We've been having coffee and punch after worship each week since the beginning of the year and it gave us one last chance to greet each other before parting. I can't wait til next week now.

Cal