The Visitor January 2015

TheVisitor

Asbury First United Methodist Church Newsletter February 2015 • Vol. XLIX No. 1 • www.asburyfirst.org

In This Issue Lenten Schedule, 4 Statement Approved, 5 A Look Ahead, 7 URWell Clinic, 8 Way of Forgiveness, 10 New Members, 11 Mini-VBS, 13

A Changing of the Guard: Retirements & New Leadership in 2015 see page 7

Mission Statement

The Visitor

Through worship, education, outreach, and care, we develop disciples of Jesus Christ who live and proclaim the Gospel and thereby work to transform our culture.

Vol. XLVIII No. 10 (USPS 558-470) is published 10 times a year, monthly with combined issues for November/December and July/August, by Asbury First United Methodist Church.

Periodical postage paid at Rochester, N.Y. POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to Asbury First UMC Visitor 1050 East Ave. Rochester, N.Y. 14607-2239 (585) 271-1050

Staff

The Rev. Susan S. Shafer The Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady II The Rev. Lawrence Hargrave David T. Strong

Dr. William J. Weinert Paula Dugan Jessica Burdick-Giordano Mike Mullin Richard Moncrief Melody Guadagnino Scott Ross Michele Cooley Mary Van Keuren Duane A. Prill Bozena Granat Carol Lamica Elizabeth Church Brian Bohrer Larry Dugan

Senior Minister Minister for Faith Formation – Hospitality & Membership Care Minister for Outreach & Community Connection Music Administrator; Assistant Organist Director of Music Children’s Ministry Director Children’s Ministry Assistant Director of Youth Ministries Financial Administrator Administrative Assistant Property Care Manager Dining & Caring Center Director Communications Director Organist Director, Children’s Music Director, Youth Music Director, Bell Choir Director, Asbury Singers Director, Youth Theater

Emeriti Staff Rev. Dr. Theodore Weeden, Paster Emeritus Dr. Roger Wilhelm, Director of Music Emeritus Marian R. Craighead*, Organist Emeritus *deceased

Unless otherwise noted, photos are by Greg Francis.

Cover: Asbury First’s three pastors during the noon service on Christmas Eve, 2014.

Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to Mary Van Keuren at mvankeuren@asburyfirst.org or (585) 271-1050.

Deadline for next issue: Friday, January 30

INCLUSIVITY STATEMENT Asbury First United Methodist Church prayerfully strives to live in its community with open hearts, open minds and open doors.

Affirming that each person is of sacred worth, we seek to be a fully inclusive church, believing that all people are God’s children, created in God’s image, loved and blessed equally by God. It is our purpose to be a Reconciling Congregation. This means extending hospitality and encouraging full participation of all, regardless of age, race, national origin, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marital status or family structure, education or economic background and physical or mental ability. We recognize that we hold a variety of opinions. We do not seek to erase our differences, but to journey together in faith toward greater understanding and mutual respect. We believe that reconciliation to God and to one another is central to our mission and ministry.

•

This Season of Short Days A Pastoral Reflection

Ted Loder’s poetic phrasing describing this “winter season” has always intrigued me in its descriptive essence: “in this season of short days and long nights, of grey and white and cold” There is no doubt that describes this season.

Yet there are lessons of waiting and new beginnings in our midst for which we can be thankful. Sunday, January 18, as we honored the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., it was an amazing day for me, and for us as a church. Three voices preaching of love with your voices raised in singing of God’s love in between the preachers’ voices … an opportunity from a heart of love to speak of the new appointment to the position of senior minister at Asbury First beginning July 1, 2015. What a moment to proclaim God’s movement in our lives as individuals and as a church in the appointment of Rev. Dr. Stephen Michael Cady II! It has been my experience, in the immediacy of any given moment, that the movement of God’s Spirit may not be readily apparent; yet there is no doubt in my mind that God’s Spirit was palpable on that Sunday and has been palpable since a “chance?” (maybe, or maybe not chance) telephone call to Stephen several years ago, to ask if he might be interested in joining our staff at Asbury First. His and his wife Emily’s affirmative answer, over several months of prayerful consideration, has brought us to this point in their lives continued on next page, bottom

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AFUMC news

Asbury First Provides Home for RAIHN Families Sixty volunteers from Asbury First, Greece Baptist, Baptist Temple and Baber AME churches worked the week of December 7-14 for more than 300 hours to provide a temporary home and meals for homeless RAIHN (Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network) families. Volunteers cooked, cleaned, visited with families, and entertained children. This is the tenth year that Asbury First has participated in RAIHN. Come join in the support of homeless families as they make their temporary home in Asbury First’s 1010 East Avenue in 2015 on the follow dates:

public library or a bookstore. Everyone’s welcome but please RSVP to Diana Carter (blueloon@rochester.rr.com, 473-1187) so we can plan refreshments.

There is always a need for volunteers for this vital outreach program. Contact Asbury RAIHN coordinators Chris and Doug Lee at (585) 451-7692 or c_s_lee29@msn.com or Melody Guadagnino, ext. 103, at the church office (271-1050).

Church Conference 2015 Asbury First’s annual Church Conference was held on Sunday, January 18 in Fellowship Hall. The well-attended event (more than 200 people were present) included several pivotal votes, including the acceptance of a reconciling statement (see story on page 5) and an affirmation of Director of Youth Ministry Mike Mullin’s further education leading toward ordination at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School.

Diversity Book Club News Hello from the Asbury Diversity Book Club! We’ve moved our meeting to Feb 22 after the 11 a.m. service to avoid a scheduling conflict. We’ll meet in the Resource Library in the education building to discuss The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong Child, Her American Doctors, and the Collision of Two Cultures by Anne Fadiman. Most of the library’s copies are in circulation, so you may need to obtain a copy of the book from the

Among the attendees were a large group of youth, who ended their winter retreat early so that they could be with the congregation for the Conference. They and the other attendees heard brief but positive reports from Stewardship Committee chair Kelly Mueller, Finance Committee chair Doug Major, and Asbury First’s Financial Administrator, Dick Moncrief. Rev. Susan Shafer led the Conference, with Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady and Rev. Lawrence Hargrave also attending.

• • •

Sunday, March 29-Sunday, April 5 (Palm Sunday-Easter) Sunday, July 5-Sunday, July 12 (Independence Weekend) Sunday, October 11-Sunday, October 18 (Columbus Day Weekend)

pastor’s reflection, continued from previous page

and ours. Truly, this is a moment of the discerning wisdom of the bishop, cabinet, district superintendent, our Staff Parish Relations Committee, and most of all, the movement of God’s Spirit among us. As Stephen, Emily, Ellie, Charlie and Hannah, with their joy-filled, faithful, and beautiful lives come into this new position, we will be richly blessed! Maybe you saw the children …unwittingly aware of what was to come ... on January 4, Ellie and Charlie made their way with friends down the aisle, with hearts of love and smiles enticing others, from pew to pew with the refrain, “Happy New Year!” What a blessing to us all.

“O God … grant us Your sense of timing …

In this season of short days and long nights, of grey and white and cold, teach us the lessons of beginnings: that such waitings and endings may be a starting place, a planting of seeds which bring to birth what is ready to be born something right and just and different, a new song, a deeper relationship,

a fuller love – in the fullness of Your time …

O God, grant us Your sense of timing.

Amen.

With love and faith,

It is an exciting time! I believe we are poised for great years of more faithfulness and strength ahead of us! You all are a great people of God whose prayerful lives and generosity of spirit continue to connect your lives with God’s Spirit, discerning where we might “... turn, turn, turn and come out right.”

Susan 3

on holy ground Created by the Center for Spiritual Life, On Holy Ground highlights opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal.

January 5, 2015 My Soul Waits in Silence…

“It’s almost impossible to reflect in the midst of a whirlwind. Every day the noise of crowded homes, busy highways, chattering workplaces, and media entertainment— not to mention our techno-gadgets—bombards us! Sitting in silence invites us to focus on matters of the heart, communing with something greater than the cacophony around us—in other words, listening to winter.

So how do we do that? The first obvious answer comes when we choose to stop talking, which includes the ticker tape running in our heads while our lips are closed.

Sacred silence is not the silence of a graveyard but the silence of a garden growing. If

you stand in a winter garden, it appears that nothing is happening in the somber stillness. Yet biology reminds us that vigorous activity, cellular movement, and unseen life abound underneath the ground—life that we can neither see nor control. Eventually growth emerges in leaves and flowers and, ultimately, fruit.

Intentionally entering the silence signals radical trust. Do we believe that the Spirit can form us without our expert micromanagement? If so, we offer the garden of our hearts for divine tilling and planting with no questions asked. As we relinquish control and judgment of the process, we find over time that green growth emerges—in the form of answered prayer, fresh insights, and an awakening to God’s presence in every-

thing. It seems as if our souls are shaped just as organically as the flowers in this amazing underground process.

Think about it—a garden offers itself to the light and lets go of control. Lilies turn into lilies, tomatoes become tomatoes. Maybe we too can be shaped into what we were meant to be as we trust the divine Gardener in the silence.

Reflect: Try sitting for a least five minutes in a quiet place with eyes closed. Breathe deeply, imagining that your inner garden is being tilled and planted by One wiser and more loving than you’ve ever envisioned.”

–excerpted from Rhythms of Growth, by Linda Douty, ©2014, Upper Room Books.

Our beautiful labyrinth is located on the lower floor

• Ash Wednesday Wednesday February 18

under the Sanctuary, in Fellowship Hall. Walking

6:30 p.m.

the labyrinth is an ancient practice that provides a

We begin the holy season of Lent with a service that

place for reflection and peaceful prayer. Stewards are

reminds us of our humanity and our reliance on the

always on duty to answer your questions.

gift of God’s love. Holy Communion will be available,

• Taizé Service

and participants may, if they wish, receive ashes in

Weds. in Lent: Feb. 25, March 4, 11, 18, and 25

the form of a cross on their forehead.

6:00-6:45 p.m.

• Labyrinth

Taizé services originated with a community of Chris-

Weds. in Lent: Feb. 18, 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25.

tian men living a monastic life in France. There ser-

5:00-7:00 p.m.

vices are characterized by simple sung chants, quiet prayer, and a contemplative silence.

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• REconciling Statement approved • The Asbury First Family Votes in Favor of Welcoming Statement

t Asbury First’s annual church conference, held on January 18, a reconciling statement that explicitly welcomes all, including our LGBTQ brothers and sisters, to Asbury First, was approved by the congregation.

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“I believe your committee has been extraordinarily thoughtful, inclusive, and transparent.

I applaud and congratulate the courageous commitment you are making to this core issue that defines our faith.

The statement reads:

Q. Which of the following most closely describes your feelings about other United Methodist churches’ decisions to become reconciling congregations?

80%: strongly agree 8%: agree 4%: neutral 3%: disagree 4% strongly disagree

Asbury First United Methodist Church prayerfully strives to live in its community with open hearts, open minds and open doors. Affirming that each person is of sacred worth, we seek to be a fully inclusive church, believing that all people are God’s children, created in God’s image, loved and blessed equally by God. It is our purpose to be a Reconciling Congregation. This means extending hospitality and encouraging full participation of all, regardless of age, race, national origin, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marital status or family structure, education or economic background and physical or mental ability. We recognize that we hold a variety of opinions. We do not seek to erase our differences, but to journey together in faith toward greater understanding and mutual respect. We believe that reconciliation to God and to one another is central to our mission and ministry.

The statement is the result of 18 months of work by a Reconciling Committee, which crafted the initial statement, distributed it widely among church members, and incorporated their suggestions to create a final statement. The final statement was approved by a vote of 215 to 11, or 95 percent in favor.

Committee leader Nancy Specht said, “Being a reconciling congregation means that we support and affirm the process of healing and reconciliation for ALL God’s children. As a

forgiven and reconciled people we are in harmony in our relationship with God and with one another through Jesus Christ.”

The approved statement will now be displayed on the church website, in the weekly bulletin and monthly Visitor newsletter, among other places.

Survey Responses Late in 2014, the Reconciling Committee surveyed the church community to solicit further opinions on the issue of reconciliation. 71 completed surveys were received from church members. Here are some of the results: Q. Have the opportunities provided over the last months to explore issues of inclusivity and those facing the LGBTQ community and the United Methodist Church been informative and thoughtprovoking?

89%: yes 11%: no Comments: “Hearing the inclusive views expressed by pastors EVERY Sunday has been incredibly helpful in spreading the inclusive nature of this church and the importance of this as we move forward in this journey together.”

Comments: “I totally agree that ALL people are created by God and loved equally by Him/Her.” “I am sad that there still remains so much fear of change in people even in the face of doing what Jesus would have done – loved all of us.”

Q. What are your thoughts about Asbury First United Methodist Church becoming a reconciling community?

Total comments: 66 91%: supportive 9%: opposed Comments: “I am in favor of us moving forward in this direction, but in a way that does not exclude those who are slow to accept change.”

“It is extremely important that we do and become a role model for other churches in our district and conference. We need to actively work to change the Discipline regarding gay marriage and ordination of LGBTQ ministers.”

“The UMC has within its structure a Reconciling Ministries Network which has sought, since 1984, to support LGBT persons in the context of the ministries of the UMC. There are currently 528 (as of 2012) congregations that have become reconciling congregations, including Fairport United Methodist Church in our area. The word reconciliation is used in this context to describe actions that lead to healing and honest relationships among all God’s children. At our baptism we are blessed and welcomed into the community of faith regardless of those characteristics that are used to define us … characteristics like age, race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, education or economic background, physical or mental ability.”

– Nancy Specht, chair of the Reconciling Committee, in an address to the Church Council in 2014 5

Our Living Births & Baptisms God has sealed you unto love and grace divine Tess Ivy Frank daughter of Tanya and Jeremy Frank, baptized on December 14, 2013.

Grace Sposato daughter of Margaret and Peter Sposato, baptized on December 28, 2014.

Anna Grace Pietropaoli daughter of Joanna and Mike Pietropaoli, baptized on December 28, 2014.

Julia Grace Henderson daughter of Zach and Kristin Henderson, baptized on January 11, 2015.

Jack William Ferrel son of Willis and Rev. Kimberly Ferrel, born on December 15. His grandparents are Dan & Joanne Hines.

Deaths Merciful God, we entrust to your never-failing care and love.

in Community

We offer our prayers and sympathy to: The family and friends of Stanley Cox who died on September 15, 2014 in Maryville, TN.

The family and friends of Carol Zahm who died in Brunswick, Ohio.

Elise Carter and family on the death of Elise’s mother Edna B. Walker on October 23, 2014.

Emma Maher and family on the death of Emma’s mother Pauline Frost on November 10, 2014 in Marcellus, NY. David and Marian Lubba on the death of David’s brother Howard (Bud) Lubba on November 18, 2014 in Attica, New York.

The family and friends of Harriet Blow who died on December 3, 2014 in Mendon, MA.

The family and friends of Rev. Alden Smith who died on December 19, 2014.

Jim and Annette Farrington on the death of Jim’s sister Chris Ann Farrington on December 3, 2014 in Newfane, NY. The family and friends of Russ Cooper who died on December 7, 2014.

The family and friends of Elaine Boyd who died on December 25, 2014.

The family and friends of Bill Amey who died on December 12, 2014.

Susan and Craig Larson on the death of Craig’s mother Mary Holm (Larson) on December 14, 2014 in Fairmont, MN.

Eileen Atwell and family on the death of Eileen’s mother Ruth Wilson on November 27, 2014.

The family and friends of Donna Adcock who died on December 13, 2014.

The family and friends of Robert Atwell who died on November 28, 2014.

The family and friends of Eunice Hanson who died on December 16, 2014 in Florida.

WORSHIP

The family and friends of Lillian Baehren who died on December 21, 2015.

The family and friends of Jean Quigley who died on December 28, 2014.

Cara and Chuck Hanrahan and family on the death of Cara’s father Paul Grigsby on December 28, 2014.

The family and friends of Helen Squires who died on December 29, 2014.

Marian and Dan Gottler on the death of Marian’s brother Maurice Rowe on Jan. 13, 2015 in Macedon, NY.

worship schedule

Sunday Service Times 8:30 a.m. – Traditional Worship 10:00 a.m. – Chancel Worship with Holy Communion 11:00 a.m. – Traditional Worship Sunday february 1 Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Mark 1:21-28 The Rev. Susan Shafer, preacher

Sunday february 8 Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany Mark 1:29-39 The Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher Sunday february 15 Transfiguration Sunday, Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany 2 Kings 2:1-12 The Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher

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Sunday february 22 First Sunday in Lent The Rev. Lawrence Hargrave, preacher

Sunday march 8 Third Sunday in Lent John 2:13-22 The Susan Shafer, preacher

SUNDAY march 1 Second Sunday in Lent Mark 8:31-38 The Rev. Susan S. Shafer, preacher

Sunday march 15 Fourth Sunday in Lent Numbers 21:4-9; John 3:14-21 The Rev. Dr. Stephen Cady, preacher

• A look ahead •

Our Pastoral Staff Looks Toward Changes in 2015 There was a feeling of electricity in the air during the 11:00 a.m. service on Sunday, January 18. In anticipation of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day the next day, many of the musical pieces were African American spirituals, uplifting and wise. The preaching – three interwoven narratives shared by our three pastors –was beautifully reflective. In a church known for the quality of its worship services, this was a very good one indeed.

“Emily and I could not be more thrilled, humbled, nervous, hopeful or thankful for the opportunity to step into this new role at Asbury First,” said Stephen after the announcement. “We love the people of this community and are excited for the ministry we will get to do together over the next few years.”

Stephen’s work will undoubtedly be informed from three years of ministry under the leadership of Susan Shafer. “I am deeply thankful to Susan Shafer,” he said. “Her vision and careful leadership of this church made this opportunity possible and provided me with a great mentor for this role.”

But for many, the highlight of the service was a moment during the offertory, when Asbury First’s senior minister, the Rev. Asbury First’s pastoral staff: Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady II, Rev. Susan S. Shafer, and Rev. Lawrence Hargrave.

Susan S. Shafer, stood near the front of the altar and announced that the received his Ph.D. from Princeton TheoSusan is clearly confident that her successor Rev. Dr. Stephen Michael Cady II would, logical Seminary in 2014, where he wrote is the right person to fill this pivotal role in on her retirement this summer, become a dissertation titled “Creative Encounters: Asbury First’s leadership structure. “These the next senior minister of Asbury First.

Toward a Theology of Magnitude for Wor- are sacred days with significant transitions in At this news, the congregation instantly ship with United Methodist Youth.” While the life of Asbury First,” she said. “I see the stood, clapped, and even cheered. Stephen, at Princeton, he was named a Timothy hand of God in these days with the appointstanding next to Susan with his wife, Emily, Scholar, an honor given to teaching scholars ment of Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady II! I have was clearly moved by the response, which by the Foundation for Evangelism. He was every confidence that this appointment is had also been shared at the two earlier also awarded a John Wesley Fellowship by truly Spirit-led and my heart is overjoyed services. the Foundation of Theological Education, with the anticipation of Stephen’s leadership. and a Dempster Graduate Fellowship by The appointment, made by Bishop Mark We are very fortunate and will move into the The United Methodist Church.

Webb of the Upper New York Conference future with confidence and trust!” of the United Methodist Church, had been affirmed only the day before by Asbury First’s Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC). It followed on Susan’s announcement in late 2014 that she would be retiring on June 30, 2015, after 34 years at Asbury First – the last four as senior minister. Her announcement was preceded by an earlier one, made by Asbury First’s minister for outreach and community connection, the Rev. Lawrence Hargrave, that he would be retiring in April 2015. A celebration of Lawrence’s ministry at Asbury First is planned for Sunday, April 19.

Asbury First’s new senior minister comes to the church with solid credentials. He

Prior to his arrival at Asbury First in 2012, Stephen served as minister at Kingston United Methodist Church in Kingston, New Jersey and associate minister for Park Ridge Community Church in Illinois. His expertise in youth and young adult ministry has led to many keynote speeches and addresses throughout the country and abroad, many of them reflecting on the need for the church to find new ways to work with young people.

Stephen is also an adjunct professor at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School in Rochester, and has led many popular classes at Asbury First.

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2015 will be a year of changes for Asbury First as Susan prepares for retirement, Stephen transitions into his new role, and new pastoral presences fill the roles left vacant. Although there may still be parts of the leadership equation that are unknown, what is certain is that Asbury First is a healthy, vibrant parish that will continue to thrive and grow under new leadership. Peter Abdella, chair of the Staff Parish Relations Committee, affirmed this in his letter to members telling them of the change in leadership. “There is much change occurring here at Asbury First and there are wonderful celebrations, too,” he said. “It’s an exciting time to be a member of our church!”

Asbury First UR Well Clinic Finishes Another Successful Year

T

he mission of this joint ministry

Asbury First UR Well clinic also is a

between Asbury First and the Uni-

teaching clinic. Students from the under-

versity of Rochester School of Medicine

graduate public health nursing program

is to provide free, high-quality preventa-

at the University of Rochester School

tive and health maintenance service to

of Medicine will return next month to

uninsured and under-served families

give a program on diabetes for patients

and individuals in Rochester. We aim to

while they wait to be seen. In the spring,

foster the health of our community while

they will do a program on high blood

promoting the spirit of education, social

pressure. Staff from the Monroe County

justice, and collaboration.

Cancer Services Program were with us for

In 2014, we cared for 457 patients (as of

several weeks in October and November informing our patients about free cancer

December 18). We care for patients with

screenings and the importance of having

acute health problem every Thursday. On the first Tuesday of each month we offer

them done.

physical exams for work, school, and

We have added two social worker and a

sports. Last month, a gentleman asked

counselor to assist with patient health

to be seen because he was uninsured. He

insurance, housing, child care and other

said he was a diabetic with heart prob-

resources. There are also currently two

lems, and hadn’t seen a doctor in two

Brighton high school students doing

years. He wanted to know if we could see

community service at the clinic, and

him, and was so happy when we said yes.

one first-year pre-med student from the

He could not stop saying thank you and

University of Rochester satisfying her

shaking our hands. After his physical was

community service requirement in the

completed the social worker helped him

clinic.

to access health resources to maintain

On arrival, patients are provided a hot

his conditions. Before he left he came

cup of coffee, tea, ice tea, cold water, and

back and thanked everyone again. There

a warm meal while they wait to be seen

are many more stories of patients who

in the clinic. Our goal is to continue to

appreciate the health care we provide

provide the best health care possible to

them, and the welcome they receive

uninsured and under-served families and

on their arrival. We are just proud to be

individuals who enter our clinic, and to

there to give them the best health care

build a trusting and caring relationship

possible.

with the community in and outside of

Patients come to the clinic from within

Rochester, N.Y.

the city of Rochester and surrounding

Thanks to all our Asbury First members

towns such as Hilton, Canandaigua, and

and friends for your gifts of food, words

as far away as Buffalo. They hear about Asbury First UR Well Clinic from our radio advertisements, the website www.urwell. org, flyers, other clinics in the area, and word of mouth.

top to bottom: a welcoming presence for patients who enter the Gathering Center; a volunteer preparing a meal for clinic patients; Ida Hickman relaxes with a patient; a medical student takes a patient’s blood pressure.

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of encouragement and appreciation. – Ida Hickman

The Storehouse Is Celebrating 50 Years

T

he Asbury First Storehouse is

women and men of all ages to sort

celebrating 50 years of service

donations, assist clients, and answer

to the community in 2015. In 1965,

phones to make appointments.

four women had a vision of do-

During the coming year, we will be

ing God’s work by clothing those

celebrating the Storehouse through

in need. From a small start, the Storehouse ministry has grown to

various events. Look for articles and announcements in the Visitor

serve thousands in the community each year.

and bulletin in the coming months.

One of the challenges of growth has been the struggle to continu-

The Storehouse shopping floor and reception area were beautifully

ally find new volunteers. Our current volunteer population is aging,

painted during Together in Service in October. We invite you to

are caregivers for family members, and are relocating to be near chil-

stop in and visit us sometime and see our rejuvenated space.

dren and grandchildren. We want to see this ministry last another

For more information or to volunteer, please contact Betsy Chris-

50 years, so we need your help! Please consider volunteering a few

tiansen at betsychristiansen@gmail.com or 585-329-2285.

hours a week or a few hours a month at the Storehouse. We need

Storehouse volunteers perform a wide range of tasks, from sorting clothes, to making appointments, to working with clients. Volunteers report that the work is fun and rewarding.

Did You Know … The Importance of a Power of Attorney?

Did you know that if you don’t have a power of attorney and become incapacitated, a court proceeding must be held to determine that you lack the ability to make decisions for yourself?

and, in the meantime, no one can act for you. Because a hearing is necessary and your doctor and other witnesses have to testify in court about your mental capacity, the matter is public and the cost can be very high.

A power of attorney is a legal document that gives the person of your choice, your agent, the authority to pay your bills, sign papers on your behalf and take care of other personal matters (but not health care decisions) for you. Most often, it is used when the principal (the person signing the power of attorney) becomes incapacitated and can no longer take care of his/her affairs.

Do you have a power of attorney? In order to avoid the delay and expense of a court proceeding and to have the person of your choice take care of your affairs, make sure you have signed a power of attorney.

If you don’t have a power of attorney and

become incapacitated, a court proceeding will be held to assess your ability to make decisions. Your doctor must testify that you lack mental capacity and the court appoints a person, called a guardian, to act for you. It can take several months for a guardianship hearing to be held to appoint a guardian 9

This information is general information provided by the Planned Giving Committee.

Please consult with your attorney for more information.

Winter / Spring Classes Fabulous Fiber Fusion Mondays through March 23 1:00-3:00 p.m.

●

This class is a continuation of the fiber class that was held last year. Learn new techniques and explore old ones.

You do not need to have taken the first series of classes to participate and enjoy this class. The only requirement is a desire to have fun and explore your creativity through fibers!

Felting Basics Tuesdays through March 24 10:00 a.m.-noon

●

Felting is an ancient technique of making cloth.

We will explore new techniques such as needle felting, wet felting, and some exploration on the felting machine. We will work with small projects at first to give you a sampling of which technique works for you. Then you will branch out into your own projects. Bring your willing-

ness to explore – no other experience is necessary!

Paint, Paper and Embellish Collage Wednesdays through March 25 10:00 a.m.-noon This is not your grade-school collage! We will paint papers, add odd bits and pieces, cut them up, and put them back together to make wallhangings, books or frameable ●

art! The only requirement is a willingness to let the spirit guide you in your creativity.

Please register with Asbury First’s artist-in-residence, Rev. Linda Clemow, at 236-1184.

You can join classes at any time. Cost for each class is $85; however if cost is an issue please let Linda know and we can accommodate you.

You need not be a member of Asbury First to participate.

ArtSparks is a safe, nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your creativity !

Tuesday Evenings With Susan and David: The Way of Forgiveness Nine Tuesdays, beginning February 3 6:00-8:00 p.m.

1010 East Ave. (red brick building next to church), Red Room This small group study invites participants to explore Christ’s call to live a forgiven and forgiving life! The Revs.

Susan Shafer and David Lubba will facilitate the experience. We will explore the movement from shame, guilt and anger to forgiveness and reconciliation, learning practices that give concrete expression to our calling as disciples of Jesus Christ. Few would claim it is an easy matter to learn to forgive those who have wounded us or to be reconciled to our enemies.

We will discover how to live out our faith in a world of daily realities far from ideal. The cost of the study book is $10.20, and each participant will need one. For further information and/or to sign up for this study, contact David Lubba at 359-9927 or dlubba@rochester.rr.com. This is a ‘small’ group study, so we are capping the number of participants at 20! Consider this study as a spiritual growth experience for the 2015 Lenten season.

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New Members New Members

We l c o m e o u r

Introducing Asbury First’s newest members. We’re so glad you’ve become part of our faith family!

Joseph & Aimee Mayer Suzanne Sirianni & Carey Vogel Joseph and Aimee have one son, Isaac, who was born Suzanne is a sales rep who ran a food pantry in Syrain 2013. Joseph is a network operations technician cuse for nine years. She’s a volunteer at School #41 in whose interests include technology and music. Aimee is Rochester. She is also an athlete who loves to read and an elementary school teacher with the Brockport Cena self-proclaimed news junkie. Carey has two children, tral School District. She enjoys singing and cooking.

Michael and Matthew, and loves coaching, playing sports, staying in shape, reading and teaching.

Ian Pershing Ian is a grad student at the U of R. He’s been active in his past congregations in musical ministries and Sunday school programming, and has worked in food banks and soup kitchens. He enjoys playing the saxophone, archery, teaching, science, cooking and music.

Karen & David Shuttleworth Karen and David have three grown children. David is a retired pediatrician and clinical professor who enjoys painting, collecting Southwest Indian pottery, woodworking, and antiques collecting and repair.

Karen loves reading, gardening, cooking, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Harmon (Bud) & Carol Peters Bud and Carol are retired and living in Rochester.

They have three grown children, Deborah, Jeff and Daniel.

United Methodism 101 Wednesdays, February 25, MARCH 4, 11, 18 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Gathering Center

• Do we believe in free will or predestination?

• Why do we use grape juice and not wine during communion?

• Why do our ministers move around so much?

• What’s up with the name “Methodist?”

• What does it mean to be “strangely warmed?”

Whether you’ve been a United Methodist all of your life or have just stumbled upon us recently, this class is for you!

Join us for a four-week discussion about the history, structure, beliefs, and challenges of the United Methodist Church.

If you are interested or have questions please contact Stephen Cady at scady@asburyfirst.org. Please let us know if you plan to attend by February 18 as we will have to order books for the class. The cost will be $12 for the book (optional).

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• Member Profile • Arvid Lakeberg, Asbury First’s Music Librarian

I

magine it’s 1956. Dwight

Rochester Oratorio Society (starting

Eisenhower is president of

in 1956), the Rochester Bach Festival

the United States, a gallon of

Chorus, the Eastman-Rochester

gas costs 22 cents, a first-class

Chorus, and Madrigalia. At the

postage stamp costs 3 cents, and

George Eastman House, Arvid is a

Elvis Presley appears on The

volunteer helping to maintain the

Ed Sullivan Show for the first

organ.

time. Living classical composers

Bill Weinert, Asbury First’s director of

include Ralph Vaughan Williams,

music, shares that “Arvid’s dedication

Benjamin Britten, Francis

and fine singing are matched by his

Poulenc, Igor Stravinsky, Samuel

positive attitude and his wonderful

Barber, and Dmitri Shostakovich.

dry sense of humor. It’s truly a joy to

The construction of Asbury

have him singing with us each week.”

First United Methodist Church

David Strong, Asbury First’s music

at 1040 East Avenue has just

administrator, says of Arvid, “I am

been completed in 1955 and Dr.

impressed by and grateful for Arvid’s

Weldon Crossland is the senior

dedication, hard work, and knowledge.

pastor. And, in March of 1956,

We have been — and continue to be

the son of a Methodist minister

— blessed by his presence.”

— Arvid Lakeberg —has just

moved to their present location adjacent to

started singing in the bass section of

the robe-storage room.

the Asbury First Sanctuary Choir.

Since 1956, Arvid has sung under seven successive Sanctuary Choir directors,

There are now 21 file cabinets and three

Around 1958, Arvid was recruited

including Austin Truitt, Leonard Treash,

floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with 1230

to volunteer as the Sanctuary Choir

John Walker, John Silantien, Don Kendrick,

anthem titles for the Sanctuary Choir and

librarian, a role he has continued in

Roger Wilhelm, and Bill Weinert. Arvid’s

the Asbury Singers. On average, ten to

faithfully to this day. The choir library

steady commitments to the choir and its

fifteen new anthem titles are added each

was in a storage room inside the room

music library exemplify his dedication to

year. As he has since 1958, Arvid types each

across from the kitchen. This now

excellence in Asbury First’s music program.

new file-folder label and files the anthems

serves as the bell choir rehearsal room.

After the choir finishes singing for a

alphabetically by title. He also maintains an

During this time, the choir rehearsed

worship service, and members have hung

electronic file of the library contents, with

in Fellowship Hall. After the Educa-

up their robes, Arvid’s work continues

seven categories: Title, Composer, Voicing,

tion Wing was built in 1961, the choir

as he sorts and re-files returned music.

Choir, Publisher, Quantity, and Season.

rehearsal room moved to Wesley Hall,

He is generally the last one to leave the

This design enables sorting and printing

and the library moved to a storage

choir room on Sunday mornings. But,

the data by any category. For example, if

room around the corner. The four-

as a preacher’s kid (“PK”) born in the

the conductor wants to see all the anthems

drawer file cabinets were stacked on

church parsonage where his family lived in

there are for Easter, then sorting the

top of each other, and Arvid used a

Greenville, N.Y., Arvid has always been at

anthems by “Season” provides the result.

home in the church and in service to God.

In addition to singing in the Asbury First

– Jeanne Strong

step ladder to reach the upper files.

Some years later, the file cabinets were

Sanctuary Choir, Arvid has sung in the 12

children’s ministry news Children’s Ministry to Hold a Mid-Winter Mini Vacation Bible School!

Vacation Bible School ... in the middle of winter? Yes, it’s true! Please join us for “ Take the Plunge” mini Vacation Bible School on February 17, 18, and 19 (during the mid-winter break for local schools), 9:00 a.m.-noon at Asbury First United Methodist Church. This VBS is for children ages four through fifth grade. There is no cost. For more information contact Paula Dugan, (585) 271-1050x111 or pdugan@asburyfirst.org. Please return to the Welcome Desk in the Welcoming Hall on Sunday mornings or to the church office during regular business hours.

Child’s Name

Child’s Age

Allergies

Parent/Guardian Information Name:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________________________________________ Best phone # during VBS hours:________________________________________________________________________ Email:_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Medical information Please list any special instructions or conditions VBS volunteers should be aware of:_____________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Emergency contact ______________________ Phone #____________________________________________________ Relationship_______________________________________________________________________________________ In the event of an emergency, I do hereby give consent to Asbury First UMC to administer the necessary medical treatment.

Signature of parent/guardian:_________________________________________________________________________ Date______________________________________________________________________________________________ Please list the people who have the permission to pick up your child(ren):_____________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Would you like to be a VBS Volunteer? YES NO What is your area of interest?_________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________

1050 East Ave.

●

Rochester, NY 14607

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(585) 271-1050

●

www.asburyfirst.org

library news February provides perfect reading weather. Picture yourself in a comfy chair in a warm place with one of the following recommended books. Join us in exploring the library resources. Take a look at the following books available in the library’s collection of books for children, teens and adults. The library is located just off the gathering space near the elevators. When the church is open, the library is open. It’s FREE and everyone is welcome!

Children: The Eye of the Whale, by Jennifer O’Connell.

This 32-page book for ages 4-8 is an illustrated picture book about the rescue of a humpback whale in danger. This story amazes while it informs. It is based on a true story with an account of the actual events of this rescue included.

Paperboy, by Vince Vawter.

This Newbery Honor winner is perfect for fans of To Kill a Mockingbird, Paperboy offers a penetrating look at both the mystery and the daily frustrations of stuttering. People of all ages will appreciate this positive and universal story. It’s about an unforgettable boy and his unforgettable story.

Have You Filled a Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids, by Carol McCloud.

This heart-warming book encourages positive behavior as children see how easy and rewarding it is to express kindness, appreciation, and love.

A 32-page book for ages 6-9

Adult: The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong Child, Her American Doctors and the Collision of Two Cultures, by Anne Fadiman.

Selected as a book for the church library Diversity Book Club, this is a compelling story of a family of Hmong immigrants and their struggles with the American medical community following the onset of their daughter’s epilepsy.

Youth: Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie, by Jordan Sonnenblick.

Salted with humor and peppered with devastating realities, Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie is a heartwarming journey through a year in the life of a family in crisis. Although this book addresses a serious topic, it is never depressing; ;It is light, frequently hilarious, and very believable, and it will be thoroughly enjoyed by teen readers.

The Poor Will be Glad, by Peter Greer and Phil Smith.

This practical book written by two leading experts in the field of poverty reduction offers a clear plan to help ordinary Christians translate their compassion into thoughtful action.

Parenting: Quiet Mind: One Minute Retreats from a Busy World, by David Kundtz.

Quiet Mind is a series of reflections that illuminate aspects of life. It offers readers guidance on using the moments between activities as opportunities to focus on becoming more fully awake to who they are.

Navigating Early, by Clare Vanderpool.

Said to be reminiscent of Huckleberry Finn, this book is the odysseylike adventure of two boys’ incredible quest on the Appalachian Trail.

Newbery Medalist author Vanderpool writes a winning book about memories, personal journeys, interconnectedness, and the power of stories. Especially suited for ages 10 and above.

February 1  John 3:1-21 2  John 3:22-36 3  John 4:1-42 4  John 4:43-54 5  John 5:1-18 6  John 5:19-47 7  John 6:1-24 8  John 6:25-71 9  1 John 1:1-10 10  1 John 2:1-29 11  1 John 3:1-24 12  1 John 4:1-21

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

      

1 John 5:1-21 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 John 10:1-21 John 10:22-42 Psalm 23 Psalm 51 Psalm 52

Bullied: A Teaching Tolerance Documentary DVD. A student, a school and a case that made history is designed to create empathy for victims and to encourage people to take action.

20 21 22 23 24 25

     

John 13:1-20 John 13:21-38 John 14:1-31 John 15:1-17 Mark 12:13-27 Mark 12:28-34

26  Deuteronomy 6:1-25 27  Ephesians 3:1-21 28  Ephesians 4:1-32 March 1  2 Chronicles 5:1-14 2  2 Chronicles 6:1-11 3  2 Chronicles 6:12-42 4  2 Chronicles 7:1-22 5  2 Chronicles 34:1-33 6  2 Chronicles 35:1-19 7  Ezra 8:1-23 8  Nehemiah 9:1-38

Scripture reading suggestions courtesy of the American Bible Society, www.americanbible.org.

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the last word 1 by Michele Cooley 2

The New Coat Every year Peter Czora and his family sort our Christmas gifts from the Thanksgiving In-Gathering, when members and friends of Asbury First bring food and gifts to the service to be distributed to several outreach ministries.

Asbury First members are so generous to our guests and the hats, gloves, socks, etc., are such a blessing to those in need. We were able to distribute gift bags to more than 100 guests.

When Peter stopped by my office with the final tally, he met one of our guests, Bobby, an older gentleman who could not find a coat that fit. Bobby has both visual and physical challenges and walks with a cane. His large size was a challenge to the staff at the Storehouse and other clothing establishments. Bobby was utilizing the layering method to stay warm. He had sweatshirts, sweaters, T-shirts and other ill-fitting items on his large frame. The result was chilly and uncomfortable. Three weeks later Peter appeared at my office with a large box. The happy results can be seen in this picture. A perfect fit and a perfect coat for Bobby.

Thank you Peter you are truly a blessing.

A Caring Sorority The young women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Soroity are another blessing who graced our Dining Center again this year in honor of Martin Luther King Day. Tamara Minter

Top, Bobby in his new coat; bottom, the young women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority prepare to serve the guests of the Dining and Caring Center.

contacted me three years ago in hopes of doing something for Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. The Sunday before the holiday was chosen as a day to give back. This sorority was started at Howard University in 1908 for African American women as a way to connect with each other and to promote education and

service. Today the sorority boasts an international membership of 250,00 girls and women of all ages with 65 members in Rochester. Approximately 30 women helped us serve over 115 guests. As one of our active volunteers, Anne Marie Brogan, noted, “These women are beautiful and self-confident, bringing joy, laughter and smiles, which is everything we need at this moment. These will be our leaders in the future.” Following a long-cherished tradition, eight of the girls who volunteered with us will be presented April 18 as debutantes. To prepare for this, they have been taking classes in etiquette, philanthropy, study skills, science technology, and waltz lessons. They brought a level of class and sophistication as they served our guests. Three of the students shared their experiences with me. Taylor Jackson, from Mercy High School, said: “ I enjoyed interacting with the people.” Brianna Brown from Aquinas said: “It was fun and a new experience.

Interacting with the less fortunate made me realize how grateful I am for all of the opportunities I have.” Jordan Myers, a national honor student from Webster Thomas High School shared, “My experience has given me the opportunity to realize that giving back to others should be a daily task.”

What a caring thought! You are all blessings to us.

The School to Prison Pipeline A Panel Discussion Monday, February 23 Gathering Center 7:00 p.m.

I

t’s a dismaying fact: students, particularly African American males, are increasingly being removed from the classroom for minor infractions that might formerly have led to nothing more than a trip to the principal’s office, and are instead being charged and funnelled

into the juvenile and criminal justice systems. If a student is not reading at grade level by fourth grade, the risk is even higher. How does this impact families? What can be done to stop the flood of young people out of schools and into prisons? Join moderator Rev. Lawrence Hargrave and a team of community leaders in a discussion of these and other questions of vital importance to the Rochester region.

Sponsored by the League of Women Voters.

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PERIODICAL 1050 East Avenue Rochester, NY 14607-2293 Address Service Requested

Yoga for Two and Chocolate Tasting F r i d a y, F e b r uar y 13 • 6: 00-8: 00 p. m. c h i l d c a r e avai l abl e • $10/person As bu r y F i r st U n i t e d Met hodi st C hurch • Ga t heri ng C ent er

k k k Join us for a fun pre-Valentine’s-Day evening of partnering yoga and chocolate tasting at Asbury

First. We’ll feature easy moves that anyone can do, regardless of ability. All types of partnerships are welcome – just grab someone and join us! Or, if you prefer, we can match you up with another chocolate- and yoga-loving

person for the evening. Following this gentle workout, you and your partner can sample some sweet treats at a chocolate tasting. Bring a yoga mat if you have one, and prepare to connect with your partner in a novel and engaging way. Spaces are limited, so RSVP by February 9 to mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org. k