The Visitor | Summer 2019

The Visitor

Capital Campaign News ASBURY FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Summer 2019 • Vol. MI No. 3 • www.asburyfirst.org

HELP US BRIDGE THE DIVIDE AND SPREAD THE LOVE

ONE HUG AT A TIME

WE NEED

1,300 PEOPLE!!!

August 8, 2019 at 6 pm see page 3 for details

IN THIS ISSUE

A Pastoral Reflection 3 Community News 4

Children’s Ministry News 6 Youth Ministry News 9

Better Together Campaign 12 Outreach News 16

Library & Reading News 21 The Last Word 23

The Visitor

MISSION STATEMENT

Love. Live. Serve. Repeat.

Vol. MI No. 3

(USPS 558-470) is published 5 times a year, February/March, April/May, Summer, September, and November/December

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 Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady II Rev. Kathy Thiel Rev. Jacqueline Nelson Rev. Mike Mullin David Strong Carl Johengen, DMA Paula Dugan Holly Temming Richard Moncrief Morgan Dornsife Melody Guadagnino Deb Bullock-Smith James Flack Michele Cooley Sarah Brubaker Duane Prill Carol Lamica Elizabeth Church Larry Dugan

FOUR WAYS TO WORSHIP AT ASBURY FIRST

Traditional Worship in our Sanctuary 10 am Sunday mornings

STAFF

Senior Minister Minister for Pastoral Care Minister for Outreach Minister for Youth & Discipleship Church Administrator; Assistant Organist Director of Music Ministry Director, Children’s Ministry Children’s Ministry Assistant; Director, Children’s Music Financial Administrator Director, Development & Communications Administrative Assistant Administrative Assistant to the Senior Pastor Property Caretaker Director, Dining & Caring Center Communications Coordinator Organist Director, Youth Music Director, Asbury Ringers Director, Youth Theater

EMERITI STAFF

Rev. Dr. Theodore Weeden, Sr., Pastor Emeritus Dr. Roger Wilhelm, Director of Music Emeritus Marian R. Craighead*, Organist Emerita *deceased Cover: Illustration of bridging the gap with a hug relay.

Illustration credit: Sarah Brubaker and Vectorarte/Freepik

Please send all submissions, questions, comments, or concerns to communications@asburyfirst.org or 585-271-1050, x109.

Deadline for submitting content for the Summer issue: AUGUST 2

Summ Worshiepr Schedu le

Outdoor Worship with Holy Communion 8:30 am Sunday Mornings Watch live at www.asburyfirst.org 10 am Sunday mornings Listen on WYSL 1040 AM or 92.1 FM 10–11 am Sunday mornings WATCH PAST SERVICES IN OUR VIDEO ARCHIVE AT ASBURYFIRST.ORG ANY TIME!

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

SIGN UP FOR OUR E-NEWSLETTER To receive our email newsletters, with news of upcoming services, classes, and other events at Asbury First, go to www.asburyfirst. org and scroll to the bottom of the home page, where you’ll see a sign-up window.

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A PASTORAL REFLECTION

REV. DR. STEPHEN M. CADY II

BRIDGING THE DIVIDE THROUGH LOVE Remember that day last summer when over seven hundred people gathered in our parking lot to set the world hopscotch record?

People from all over Rochester—members and non-members, young and not-so-young, professionals and amateurs—gathered together to remind this community that in order to love our neighbors, we first have to know our neighbors. The beauty was not in the success of the event (as some know, Guinness confirmed that we had the numbers but did not give us the record on a technicality—too many non-hoppers in the hopping area). The beauty was in the attempt.

struggled to remain united. We have formed sides, drawn battle lines, and committed to holding our ground.

In a divided world, it is easy to forget that we need each other to be fully who God is calling us to be. My success is fundamentally bound to your success. The challenge is that everything around us seems to convey the opposite. Our politics are all about choosing sides—right or left, right or wrong—with little room for discourse, with virtually no gray.

The church can be like this, too.

This summer, on August 8, we are setting another big bold goal. This time we need 1,300 people. We intend to “spread the love” by setting the record for the world’s longest hug relay—physically bridging that gap between divided people.

We will stand in a single-file line (serpentine style) and pass a hug from one end to the other. You will receive one hug and pass it on to one other person. That’s it. Receive a hug and then share it. For a sense of it, you can go to our website to see how the current record holders did it.

I stand with my LGBTQ+ siblings. I lament the damage done by the denomination to members of that community, recognizing that damage done to one of us is ultimately done to all of us. I recognize, however, that there will always be those who think differently about this than I. In the end, I do not long for a church where everyone thinks the same way, simply for one that when there is doubt, errs on the side of love. I long for a church that is expansive enough for us to exist together without doing damage to one another. In this way, Asbury First can be an example to our denomination. Not everyone believes the same way, and yet we have found a way to be in ministry together. We have found a way to love one another despite our differences.

Now it is time to spread it.

To be clear, there are some rights and wrongs in the church.

When it comes to matters of justice, of equity, of grace, there is no ambivalence. God calls us to stand on the side of the oppressed, the disinherited, and the refugee. God’s love is for all of God’s children. There is often gray, however, in how we express that love, and it takes conversation to find the most faithful way.

I have no idea how it will turn out, but I know that the success will not be in achieving the record, it will come in our willingness to stand in a divided world and spread the love.

Grace and Peace, Stephen

These last few months have been difficult for The United Methodist Church. After the disaster that was the special session of the General Conference in February, we have

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COMMUNITY NEWS SUMMER WORSHIP TIMES

BEGINS MAY 26 | MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND TO LABOR DAY WEEKEND (INCLUSIVE)

8:30 AM

10 AM

OUTSIDE WORSHIP WITH HOLY COMMUNION

TRADITIONAL WORSHIP IN THE SANCTUARY

UPCOMING SERVICES SUNDAY, JUNE 23 1 Kings 19:1-15a Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady II, Preacher SUNDAY, JUNE 30 Rev. Jacqueline Nelson, Preacher SUNDAY, JULY 7 Exodus 14:21-25 Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady II, Preacher

SUNDAY, JULY 14 Rev. Susan S. Shafer, Preacher SUNDAY, JULY 21 John 12:44–50 Rev. Kathy Thiel Preacher SUNDAY, JULY 28 Rev. Jacqueline Nelson, Preacher

SUNDAY, AUGUST 4 Tent Sunday Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Cady II, Preacher

SUNDAY, AUGUST 25 Luke 13:10–17 Mark Brummit, Preacher

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 Rev. Jacqueline Nelson, Preacher

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Rev. Jacqueline Nelson, Preacher

SUNDAY, AUGUST 18 Jeremiah 23.23–29 Rev. Mike Mullin Preacher

UPCOMING EVENTS ROC PRIDE PARADE/FESTIVAL July 20, 1–9 pm; July 21 ,12–6 pm

Live entertainment, food trucks, and a variety of retail and community vendors will be at Cobb’s Hill Park, 80 Culver Road. The parade is July 20 at 12 pm. Tickets for the festival are $12. Don’t miss the Asbury First table—stop by and help us show God’s love is for all.

To volunteer or to march in the parade, contact Deb Bullock-Smith at dbullocksmith@asburyfirst.org.

PARK AVE. FESTIVAL August 3, 10 am–6 pm; August 4, 10 am–5 pm

The Park Avenue neighborhood is transformed for one weekend each year into a one-of-a-kind shopping mecca, filled with original creations from more than 350 artists, crafts people and exhibitors from the U.S. and Canada. Stop by and check out the Asbury First table! For more information or to volunteer, contact Morgan Dornsife at mdornsife@asburyfirst.org.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME! August 19, 7:05 pm, vs. Buffalo Bisons

Join us at Frontier Field as the Red Wings host the Buffalo Bisons on Monday, August 19 at 7:05 pm. We will have reserved seats and the cost will be $8 per ticket. It will be a fun time to connect with friends and make new ones toward the end of summer! This is a family-friendly, cost-friendly, intergenerational event that is open to all.

To reserve your ticket, please send the ticket price to Melody Guadagnino at the church office (1050 East Avenue).

Questions? Contact, Melody at mguadagnino@asburyfirst.org.

TOGETHER IN MINISTRY AND YOUTH GROUP KICK-OFF Sunday, September 8 4

COMMUNITY NEWS IN THE COMMUNITY DEATHS

The family and friends of Donna Kunkel who died on May 17, 2019.

WE OFFER OUR PRAYERS AND SYMPATHY TO

BAPTISMS

Bess Phillips on the death of her brother, Tom Phillips, on March 15, 2019 in VA.

WE CELEBRATE THE BAPTISM OF Gabriel James Schreck, son of Mark and Samantha Schreck, baptized on May 5, 2019.

Lonnie and Mrytle Day on the death of Lonnie’s mother, Lucy Day, on March 24, 2019 in Farmington, NY. The family and friends of Thomas D. Morin who died in New Mexico.

Olivia Jane and Mark Robert, daughter and son of Jonathan and Stephanie Weaver, baptized on May 5, 2019.

Paula and Rick Kuempel on the death of Paula’s brother, Jon Cole, who died in Lancaster, OH on April 4, 2019.

Kellan Christopher Thoreau Bangs, son of Christopher and Rhianna Bangs, baptized on March 31, 2019.

Roger and Melissa Oskvig on the death of Roger’s mother, Vera Oskvig, who died on April 18, 2019 in Iowa.

MARRIAGES

WE CELEBRATE THE MARRIAGE OF

The family and friends of Warren Doerrer who died on April 22, 2019.

Rachel Erin Stuart and Denton Nemeth Fogle, married on May 24, 2019.

Prabodh and Christine Shah on the death of their daughter Nina Shah on May 15, 2019 in Washington, DC.

WELCOME

THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF ASBURY FIRST

Bonnie Armontrout

Julie and Terry Smith

Scott Spencer

Linda and Tim Gibbs

Bonnie Watson

Kevin Kozlowski and Jennifer Brand

Mike and Shaun Hakiel 5

Jane Ellen Bailey

MUSIC & ARTS NEWS GATEWAYS CONCERT FESTIVAL Connecting and supporting classical musicians of African decent, enlightening and inspiring communities.

FILM SERIES: R.A.W 4:30 pm, Hatch Recital Hall SOLO PIANO RECITAL: STEWART GOODYEAR 8 pm, Hatch Recital Hall WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7 FESTIVAL PIANO RECITAL 3:30 pm, Hatch Recital Hall FILM SERIES: KINSHASA (AFRICA) SYMPHONY — A DOCUMENTARY* 6:30 pm, The Little Theatre THURSDAY, AUGUST 8 NATHANIEL GUMBS, ORGAN 12 pm, Third Presbyterian Church CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT I 7:30 pm, Mt. Olivet Baptist Church

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6 TALK & PANEL DISCUSSION: THE BLACK HORN WITH ROBERT WATT 3 pm, Hatch Recital Hall

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9 FESTIVAL PREVIEW: WXXI BACKSTAGE PASS 1 pm, Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre SOLO PIANO RECITAL: TERRENCE WILSON 3 pm, Hatch Recital Hall GATEWAYS CHAMBER PLAYERS 5:30 pm, City Hall

GATEWAYS BRASS COLLECTIVE* 7 pm, Memorial Art Gallery FILM SERIES: BODY AND SOUL 7:30 pm, Kilbourn Hall GATEWAYS AFTER HOURS* 10 pm, Anthology SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 FILM SERIES: CAGED BIRD, THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF FLORENCE PRICE 4:30 pm, Hochstein School of Music & Dance PAUL J. BURGETT MEMORIAL LECTURE: CORY HUNTER, PHD 6 pm, Hochstein School of Music & Dance CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT II 7:30 pm, Hochstein School of Music & Dance SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 GATEWAYS ENSEMBLE 10 am worship service, Asbury First Sanctuary GATEWAYS ORCHESTRA CONCERT** 4 pm, Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre *Tickets available at the door ($5–$10) **Tickets available at the door ($15)

For more information about ticket sales, performance locations and repertoire or to view the most current schedule, visit gatewaysmusicfestival.org or call the Festival Hotline at (585) 234-2582.

CHILDREN’S MUSICAL For Children's Sunday, our children ages Pre-K through 5th grade presented the musical The Life of the Party—The Story of Mary & Martha. The stories of Mary and Martha in the gospels deal with issues that are instantly recognizable—family conflict, making time for Jesus in the midst of hectic lives, and trusting God when things get tough. In this musical production our children experienced the truth of this story: we sometimes become so busy doing things for God that we forget to spend time with God. The service was special as the children led us in worship and did an amazing job!

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CHILDREN’S & YOUTH MINISTRY NEWS YOUTH SUNDAY June 2 was Youth Sunday, and as always, the youth did an incredible job leading worship. As the seniors indicated in their sermons, many of those messages have been literally years in the making. But even our musicians, liturgists, greeters, and others put in extra time to help create a truly worship-full experience. From writing prayers, to choosing music and hymns, to choosing a scripture, the youth all work together to help create a complete and cohesive service. Youth Sunday is a highlight for many of our youth, just as it is a highlight for many of our adults

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CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS VBS Introduces “The Power of Small Things”

Join us as the kids learn about the power of small things through Bible stories and activities, as they help make a difference in the lives of kids around the world. Vacation Bible school is open to all children ages 4 through 5th grade. We have fun activities planned like games, drama & theater, art, and much more! Camp is Monday–Thursday August 5–8 at 9 am–12:30 pm. Cost is $15 per child and no more than $40 a family. To register, just complete the form below and return it to the Asbury First United Methodist Church,1050 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607. Have questions? Contact Paula Dugan, Director of Children’s Ministry, at pdugan@ asburyfirst.org or (585)271-1050 x111 for more information, or visit us online at www. asburyfirst.org/get-involved/children-youth. Please register by July 18 so we can ensure we have a T-shirt for your child(ren). Mark your calendars for Thursday evening, August 8th, we’ll have a family celebration to wrap-up the end of a great week!

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?

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YOUTH MINISTRY NEWS YOUTH PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT This spring, our youth set out around Rochester on a photo scavenger hunt. In addition to zany pictures like the entire group on a slide or under a table, the youth got to learn a little bit about some of Rochester’s history by taking pictures with a likeness of Frederick Douglass or with some interactive art. Activities such as this help to strengthen the relationships of our youth as they bond over unique experiences. We are excited to have a youth ministry that many of our youth can think of as a second home; a place where they can go to have fun, and a place they can turn to with challenges and difficult questions.

INTERFAITH SUNDAY On April 7, the Muslim Youth Group hosted a night at the Islamic Center of Rochester and welcomed youth groups of any faith and no faith. They shared a dinner and then enjoyed activities, games, and discussions that provided the chance to meet and get to know young people of different traditions.

“We had the opportunity to meet and interact with youth from all different faiths. We played Jeopardy to learn about the different religions, and their core beliefs. My favorite part was hearing the Muslim call to prayer and we were able to feel their reverence as we observed the men and woman taking part in it,” said Kahri Silva, 16 years old.

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COMMUNITY NEWS GRADUATES OF 2019 HIGH SCHOOL

Hannah Beamish Webster Thomas High School

Ben Conrow Webster Schroeder High School

Isabelle Karpovich Pittsford Sutherland

Caitlyn Kenny Tuscarora High School (Frederick, MD)

Attending St. John Fisher Attending St. John Fisher College to study sports College to study nursing.

Merit Scholarship Recipient management and play soccer.

National Honor Society and accepted to the Honors program at St. John Fisher, placed and played varsity baseball and soccer. first in the state in Hospitality Management through Future Business Leaders of America.

Attending Ithaca College for Physical Therapy.

Attending Frederick Community College, as well as working as a cosmetologist in our area.

McKenzie Flynn Irondequoit High School

Grace Gargan Our Lady of Mercy High School

Helen Hassett Mercy High School

Attending State University of New York Geneseo to study French and travel.

Swam for five years, participated in musicals, and sang in the advanced choir.

Attending St. Lawrence University with an interest in studying psychology within the liberal arts tradition.

Attending Lycoming College, majoring in Business Administration with a minor in finance.

On Honor Roll for four years.

Erin Lally Fairport High School

Benjamin Mack Webster Thomas High School

Connor McQuillan Brighton High School

Attending Clark University.

Spanish National Honors Society.

Attending Rochester Institute of Technology’s Physicians Assistant program.

High Honor Roll/High Honor Roll with Distinction Student, Varsity Track and XC Athlete.

Attending the Doctorate in Physical Therapy program at Utica College where he will also be playing on the men’s D3 soccer team.

Julianna Nichols Irondequoit High School

Emily Presutti Webster Thomas High School

Elizabeth Roote Gates-Chili High School

Suzannah Sheeran The Harley School

Attending Monroe Community College for nursing.

DECA Regional winner in hotel and hospitality for two years, and member of National Honor Society and on high honor roll for four years.

Attending Binghamton University, majoring in Psychology.

Attending the University of Vermont to study medical lab science with a minor in pre-medicine.

Graduating ranked 7th in class and has earned an academic varsity letter.

Attending Stetson University with plans to study psychology and political science.

Recruited Division 1 to be a coxswain on the women's crew team.

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COMMUNITY NEWS GRADUATES OF 2019 HIGHER EDUCATION

Josie Abdella Boston University Bachelor of Arts in Communications

Post-graduation plans are to work in the film and entertainment industry.

Isaac Berg Mercyhurst University Bachelor in Communication and minor in Information Technology

Post-graduation plans involve pursuing a career in the sport industry.

Graduated Magna Cum Laude, Inducted in the Mercyhurst Service Honors Society.

Stephanie Hack Nazareth College Master of Education

Emily Hanrahan State University of New York Geneseo Bachelor of Arts in Geography minor in Environmental Studies

Member of the Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society Post-graduation plans involve in Education. taking it one day at a time.

Phil Slattery State University of New York at Fredonia Bachelor of Science in Communication with a focus on video production

Also completed Russian Studies and Philosophy Minors.

RECOGNIZING OUR INTERNS

THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING INTERNS AND THEIR WONDERFUL WORK IN OUTREACH AND CONGREGATIONAL CARE!

MARIA OLIVIA HACKETT

GERI JUDD

The University of Rochester Bachelor of Arts in Russian

Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School Master of Divinity

Experiences at Asbury First: The biggest thing I did was to create a volunteer training manual. It gives people volunteering here at Asbury First more structure within the different outreach ministries. I gained more of an appreciation for volunteering. There is so much that goes into it. You have to posture yourself in a certain way. You have to be open to communication with people that you’ve never met and come into that without any biases or subjective opinions. I have come to know the staff and congregation well and it has been a great place to become immersed in.

Experiences at Asbury First: One of the most impressionable moments I had was helping out at the Storehouse. It was seeing the joy on peoples faces after receiving items that they so desperately needed. The most meaningful experiences were being able to participate with Kathy and Stephen at the Holiday services at the Highlands and—OH MY!—the Good Friday service.

Also, meaningful were my home visits at St. John Meadows. The most loving moments were working with my site committee: Barb Nelson, Carol Trout, Ike Jordan, and Ed Crosby. The funniest experience was Kathy's and my visit with “Lucky” the duck and his owners, Dick and Nancy!

Asbury First’s effects on studies: In doing the manual, specifically, I had to think a lot about the wording I was using and being intentional and inclusive.

It is something that I still take with me in any writing that I do now—like something that concerns advocacy or any research that I’m doing in which I want to remain subjective and open and progressive.

Asbury First’s effects on studies: The fall semester was wonderful, seeing that I had a light load at seminary. I was able to make many trips to Asbury First which positively affected my studies. During the first semester there were many opportunities to apply what I was experiencing at Asbury First to both my supervised ministry class and also to the church where I am serving.

The second semester was a challenge working with a heavy course load, maintaining a presence at the church I am serving, and being in Rochester three+ days a week. However, I did survive and so did everyone else!

Post-graduate plans: This July, I will be participating in a Russian language intensive program in Barnaul, Siberia through sponsorship of the Fulbright-Hays Program, and then I will be starting classes at Yale Divinity School in August to pursue a Master of Divinity! Pursing a masters feels like the most natural progression for me as a continuation of what I started at Asbury First. It is really an extension of my appreciation for people rooted in my love for God that made me decide ministry is the right thing for me to do in this season of my life. I love the academic rigor at Yale and would like to be ordained in the Episcopal faith.

Post-graduate plans: My first plan, is to be a more present pastor at Jacksonville Community UMC where I am serving. Then, I will implement some of the ideas that I gleaned from our staff meetings. I also plan to go before the Board of Ordained Ministry for commissioning and then on to Ordination!

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BETTER TOGETHER CAMPAIGN

A VISION OF OUTREACH

BY REV. JACQUELINE NELSON

Asbury First has developed a remarkable reputation for outreach. The talk around town is that this is the place to come, and our neighbors truly enjoy the experience offered to them when they visit. We have developed a reputation for having the best breakfast in town, for having the best hospitality and clothing, and for meeting the need for free work physicals. In addition, we have heard stories from guests about our programs being a place where individuals feel safe, accepted, and at home. Our efforts to meet the need while providing radical hospitality and grace truly shines forth—just ask around!

A HOLISTIC, COHESIVE CENTER FOR THOSE IN NEED

It is also true, however, that our campus outreach programs have developed their own unique reputations often making it appear as though each program is separate from our church, and furthermore, separate from each other. Many of our guests and the agencies we partner with, have no idea that the Dining & Caring Center, Storehouse, and UR Well Clinic are all a part of one outreach ministry. This conflict is best seen from the perspective of individuals accessing services.

Our goal of creating an Outreach Center here on campus that houses all three of our programs

is one really important way that we are attempting to address the issue. This will allow us to fix accessibility needs on various levels, and will also create an even more hospitable and welcoming atmosphere for our guests. By doing so, it is our desire to significantly reduce travel time, and to better accommodate those we have been called to serve.

New renderings of the Outreach Center can help us imagine the journey that a centralization of the ministries will create, providing accessible and holistic services to those in need. Take a look below!

A JOURNEY THROUGH THE OUTREACH CENTER

STEP 1: DINING & CARING CENTER BASEMENT FLOOR

The journey starts with breakfast at the Dining & Caring Center in the basement of 1010 East Ave. After being served a delicious meal, guests can take advantage of the shower, hair care, and laundry facilities.

Above: Additional dining will feature natural light.

Left: The existing dining area will be updated and the awkward, overhead pipes will be removed to allow for easier access.

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BETTER TOGETHER CAMPAIGN FIRST FLOOR

On the first Tuesday evening of the month and every Thursday evening, guests can get medical attention that otherwise would be denied. They will be able to access physicals that are much needed for obtaining work.

Below: The refurbished lobby and patient rooms will retain the historic interior while allowing patients a central and better accessible location.

STEP 2: STOREHOUSE SECOND FLOOR

On the second floor of 1010 East Ave., guests will have access to much needed clothing, shoes, and other items. An elevator will provide easy access to the Storehouse.

Right: Natural light, new changing rooms, open clothing areas, and a comfortable waiting area will foster an better experience for families and individuals in need.

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BETTER TOGETHER CAMPAIGN

Matching Gift CHALLENGE

WE DID IT!!

Thank you to all who responded to our Matching Gift Challenge. Because of 99 households, we succeeded in this challenge by raising a total of $263,000 in response to the $223,000 pledged by our lay leaders for the new Outreach Center. This also includes gifts from 39 new pledgers to the Better Together Campaign. Stay tuned for updated totals and what's ahead for the campaign. You can still make a commitment today by going online at www.asburyfirst.org/bettertogether/ pledge. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to Outreach at Asbury First!

$263,000 GIVING CHALLENGE $223,000 LEADERSHIP MATCHING GIFT

COMPLETE A PLEDGE CARD AT ASBURYFIRST.ORG/BETTERTOGETHER BUILDING COMMITTEE UPDATE BOILER PROJECT

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his campaign is fundamentally an effort to address the infrastructure, outreach, and accessibility needs of our community—with three corresponding phases.

The first part of the infrastructure projects—the front steps­—was completed last summer, on time and on budget. The second part began unexpectedly over the winter when, just before Thanksgiving, our boiler failed. Fortunately, we already had the funds to purchase the new boiler and were able to connect it in a temporary way to our old system to get us through last winter. This summer, we are completing the final elements of the infrastructure portions of our projects—the completion of our HVAC system, as well as the electrical and lighting work for the sanctuary (the organ renovation is an intentionally concurrent, but separate project—see next page).

The temporary boiler fix will be fully updated over the summer.

We are pleased to announce that Frank Marianacci Inc. will be the contractor for this project. This happens to be the same contractor we used for the Gathering Center and Welcome Hall back in 2006. We were very pleased with their work then, and are happy to be working with them on this important project. The work has begun and will take an estimated six months to complete. Please join us in thanking our Building Committee and Trustees for their hard work and prudent leadership in these projects.

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BUILDING COMMITTEE UPDATES AUSTIN ORGAN RESTORATION/ENHANCEMENT PROJECT

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ur four-manual, 75 rank Austin organ, installed in 1955, is one of the finest instruments in the upstate New York region. The organ is the heart of the nearly 200-year-old Asbury First and its congregation. The instrument, both solo and in combination with Asbury First’s several choral groups, accompanies Sunday worship services each week.

In addition to regular and special worship services (160 annually), our organ plays a central role in baptisms, weddings, and memorial services. It also serves as a teaching, practice, recording, and recital instrument for Eastman School of Music students and faculty. Additionally, it is used as a solo recital instrument by national and international organists and to accompany visiting college, university, and professional choral and instrumental ensembles. The organ has been featured on national syndicated radio programs such as “With Heart and Voice,” and “Pipe Dreams.”

The last major renovation to the organ was in 1996, when the console preset system was modified. The main organ leather was re-actioned in both 1985 and the late-1990s. The majority of this work was carried out by the original builder. Other than this maintenance, the organ is original. Some much-needed solid state upgrade work was completed by Parsons Organ Builders last fall as part of Phase 1 of this latest organ project.

A generous gift from the Killian J. and Caroline F. Schmitt Foundation and memorial gifts in memory of Dick Eastman have made it possible to proceed with additional restorative projects as well as several enhancements for our beloved instrument. Restoration includes rebuilding of the pedal board, replacing the rubber cloth on the console roll-top, re-leathering two blower room wind bellows, rebuilding the pedal reed unit, and restoring five patented air-lock doors. Enhancements include installing the prepared-for 32 foot Pedal Bombarde extension; adding 25 real chimes, and a Cymbelstern (a random elegant ringing of chimes used for various musical effects); and replacing nine small wooden flute pipes that rarely remain in tune due to humidity fluctuations. Steps have been taken to protect the organ during this restoration/enhancement process. We look forward to the completion of the project at the end of the summer.

Clockwise from top: The installation of the organ in 1955 included a new floor, blower, screens, and pipes. Below: An open view of the organ during the performance of “Rex: The King of Instruments” on February 24.

ORGAN CURTAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT A review of documentation in our archives regarding the evaluation of organ companies and ultimate design of the Austin organ and signing of the contract with them, indicates that significant efforts were made to reduce costs. The organ is smaller than originally desired and references to an “organ screen” and “grille work” suggest that installing curtains to cover the 4 chambers was a compromise. Fortunately, a generous gift has made is feasible to accomplish what was envisioned almost 65 years ago.

The carved oak wood and steel screen is in final design phase and we expect that the screens will be built and installed this summer.

If you have any questions, please contact David Strong at dstrong@asburyfirst.org or at (585) 271-1050 x110, or Chuck Hanrahan at chuck.hanrahan@gmail.com or at (585) 690-7509.

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OUTREACH NEWS DINING & CARING CENTER VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DINNER

PHOTOS BY GLENN PECK

The Dining & Caring Center (D&CC) honored volunteers and fellow supporters who love and care for our less fortunate brothers and sisters on May 21, with a special dinner. Cathy Bracht was also honored for volunteering her cosmetology skills for many years to help our guests feel better about themselves. Thank you to all our volunteers who make this important ministry possible!

Dining & Caring Center Director Michele Cooley and honoree Cathy Bracht

D&CC KITCHEN DELIVERY Thanks to the generosity of the Davenport Hatch Foundation, we received $25,000 to purchase new kitchen equipment for the Dining and Caring Center kitchen. We were able to purchase big items, like a new oven range, dishwasher, floor mixer, and plate warmer, which has made a huge difference in our service to those who join us for a meal.

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OUTREACH NEWS STOREHOUSE SALE HELP Asbury First recently hosted some wonderful middle-school students from The Aquinas Institute of Rochester on campus to do a few special projects for their annual service day. They worked hard moving items for the upcoming Storehouse Summer Sale. We are so grateful for their help in preparation for the big sale!

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OUTREACH NEWS

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF

TAY HOUSE TROOP #19

“In 2006, the School #1 PTA dissolved and dropped us, and that was an existential crisis for us because we need a charter organization as Boy Scout troop,” said Scoutmaster Mike Dreher. “We were in a world of trouble when that happened, and Asbury First was open to chartering a troop. It is a natural match for us because about half of our membership lives in the Park Avenue/School #23 area, so for a lot of the boys that’s one of the local churches. It’s been really nice the last 10–15 years since this match. We’ve gained a home for the tree lot, which is a convenience for us and has worked well with Asbury First. We weren’t used to having a charter organization that is actually interested, which is a refreshing change for us.

School #1 never really asked us for much, but with Asbury First, we suddenly have an outlet for service hours. Right now, it is just the spring cleanup, but we’d love to do more Eagle Scout projects at Asbury First. When we lost our charter, we also lost our tree lot. Asbury First really stepped in and saved an old scout troop by providing a charter and a lot.”

The relationship between Tay House Troop #19 and Asbury First is still developing, but it is an ideal partnership that will only grow stronger.

Congratulations on reaching 100 years!

Above, clockwise from left: The Troop in 1958, in the early 1990s, and at the spring campus clean up at Asbury First in 2019.

CHRISTMAS TREE SALE

In 1951, Tay House scouts began selling Christmas trees as an annual fundraiser.

Currently, more than 650 trees are sold from the Asbury First lot. Proceeds fund hikes, camper programs and activities hosted by Tay House for its scouts. In addition to the trees, the scouts sell Christmas wreaths, and in 2018, sold a record number of 1,200!

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To see a time-lapse video of the scouts loading and setting up the trees for sale, visit: tinyurl.com/tayhousetreelot

OUTREACH NEWS TROOPS THROUGH THE YEARS

1944

1958

1971

1984

2002

2015

TAY HOUSE HISTORICAL TIME LINE 1919

The Troop began at the Brighton Presbyterian Church. The philosophy behind the Troop was a scouting organization of boys, run by the boys and for the boys.

1922

The first Eagle is awarded to Harold Dye.

1925

The Troop moves to School #1 and is sponsored by the PTA

1931

In the fall, the Troop moved to its current home, the Tay House Cabin.

1932

The cabin is dedicated and named Tay House after J. Taylor Howard, the guiding force behind the Troop and construction of the cabin. J. Taylor Howard spent over 35 years with the Troop.

1937

The Troop had 125 scouts. Jack Stern as Scoutmaster, split the Troop into three sections: Red, White, and Blue, each with its own scoutmaster and leader staff.

1938

The 50th Eagle is awarded.

1941– 1945

The war years. Fifty-two scouts served in the Armed Forces during the war.

1947

The 100th Eagle is awarded.

1951

The Annual Christmas Tree Sale begins and is still run each December as the Troop’s only fundraiser.

1960

The 150th Eagle is awarded.

1963

A fire damages the cabin. The Troop meets at School #1.

1970

The 200th Eagle is awarded. The Troop celebrates its 50th anniversary.

1981

The 250th Eagle is awarded.

1994

The Troop celebrates its 75th anniversary. The Troop and Towners Bike Shop establish the Mountain Bike Program at the Massawepie Scout Camp.

1997

The Troop is relocated to Lake Riley Lodge while the cabin was under major renovation.

2002

The 300th Eagle is awarded.

2007

The Troop re-charters with Asbury First United Methodist Church as its sponsoring organization. The Christmas Tree Sale returns at its new location on the Asbury First campus on East Avenue.

2008

Tay House organizes its first ever Super Western Adventure Trip over the 4th of July, featuring Mount Rushmore National Park.

2016

The 350th Eagle is awarded.

2018

The Troop is relocated to Lake Riley Lodge for the Spring as a new roof was being added to the cabin, which reopened in September 2018.

2019

The fourth Super Trip takes place, dubbed the Centennial Western Adventure Trip to Hurricane, Utah and featuring Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park, as well as mountain biking, rock climbing, and canyoneering.

The Troop celebrates its 100th anniversary.

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COMMUNITY NEWS WOMEN'S SPRING RETREAT LATOURNEAU CHRISTIAN CAMP Our retreat theme brought 26 Asbury First women and friends to Camp LaTournea on Canandaigua Lake. As we connected with each other creatively (building bridges, listening, singing, exercising and lots of laughter, we celebrated God’s presence and love in our lives.

We were went forth with the desire to Love as we are Loved!

MEN'S SPRING RETREAT CAMP CASOWASCO

The men of Asbury First enjoyed fellowship at the Galilee Lodge at Camp Casowasco.

Great times were had by all singing hymns, hiking, meditating, and a discussing the book Just Mercy, by Bryan Stevenson.

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LIBRARY & READING NEWS

S

SUMMER

ummer reading encouraged by easy, available, and free access in the church library. Check out some new additions to the collection.

• Among the reading and viewing pleasures in our own church library, is the entertaining Walt Disney family film BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA. Take a look through the church library DVD collection and find entertainment and education for your family.

• THE DAY THE WORLD CAME TO TOWN is the awe-inspiring story of 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland, when 38 jetliners bound for the U.S. were forced to land in this small community due to the closing of the U.S. airspace. Now made into a Broadway musical, this is the story told by those passengers in the grounded flights that was collected in a book by author Jim Defede.

• Looking for a devotion and prayer to share with your group? You’ll find it in Maria Shriver’s I’VE BEEN THINKING. It is filled with reflections, prayers and meditations for a meaningful life and it is available in our church library.

• HOLY ENVY: FINDING GOD IN THE FAITH OF OTHERS is another winning book by bestselling author Barbara Brown Taylor.

This notable author deals with the questions and concerns regarding world religions and it is the selection chosen for study and discussion by the Asbury Women on Wednesday group. A copy is available in our church library.

NEW ADDITIONS • Praying with the Wesleys by Rev. Dr. John R. Tyson (ordered upon publication) • The Parents Guide to Climate Revolution

by Mary DeMocker • The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin • Spiritual Questions for the 21st Century : Essay in Honor of Joan Chittister by Mary Hembrow Snyder • Dreams from my Father

by Barack Obama • The Audacity of Hope

by Barack Obama • Becoming by Michelle Obama • On the Come Up by Angie Thomas • Grateful American: From Self to Service

by Gary Senise • We Are Displaced by Malala Yousaafzai • The End of the World and Beyond by Avi • The Unexpected Life of Oliver Cromwell Pitts by Avi • Juicy Living, Juicy Aging by Loretta LaRoche

NEW DVDS

• Justice a DVD by Michael Sandel • Say Amen Somebody: How Gospel Music got Started a DVD

NEW FOR THE KIDS

• The Year of the Book by Andrea Cheng • When Zachary Beaver Came to Town

by Kimberly W. Holt • Six books by Dr. Seuss: And to think that I saw it on Mulberry Street, The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins, Horton Hatches the Egg, Yertle the Turtle, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and The Lorax

NEW PICTURE BOOKS

• The Family Book by Todd Parr • I’m Gonna Like Me by Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell • Nighty Night, Noah: An Ark Alphabet

by Molly Schwar Idle • I’ve Loved You Since Forever by Hoda Kotb

LOOKING FOR THE YOUNG ADULT BOOKS?

They have been relocated from their usual spot in the church library down to the youth rooms (LL Youth Room) in order to be closer to their intended audience. So, if your teen is looking for a good book, come downstairs and look through the 120 plus YA book collection—both fiction and nonfiction.

Check them out by simply signing your name.

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COMMUNITY NEWS THE HELEN FULTZ MUSIC FUND

W

BY MORGAN DORNSIFE

hen Dan and Helen Fultz joined Asbury First in 1975, they had already shared nearly 20 years of marriage, with all the surprises and joys one can expect. Dan and Helen met as students at Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA. Dan (already having enlisted in the Marine Corp. following high-school graduation), was a rising senior studying political science; Helen, an only child from New Jersey, was a brand new freshman on campus. They met, quickly fell in love, married, and found themselves expecting their first child (Mark) while living in veteran housing. Mark was born, and Dan began his career at Lycoming College, later earning a graduate degree in business from Bucknell University. Soon, they were blessed with their daughter (Christine) and found themselves in Aurora, NY while Dan worked for Wells College. Then, a job with a manufacturing company brought the Fultz family to Rochester. While Dan shares that Helen was raised Lutheran,

he also mentions (with a wink) that they were always sure to find the right United Methodist church for their family. And thankfully, they found Asbury First, and Asbury First found the Fultz family.

Music is what drew Dan and Helen to Asbury First. Music was what brought them reminders of God’s love and of this shared community that became their church family. Together, they shared 62 years of marriage. Helen went to be with the Lord earlier this year, and Dan has chosen to make a generous gift in her memory to our endowment, establishing the new Helen Fultz Endowment Fund. The purpose of this endowment gift, which totals $250,000 given over 5 years, is to support the ongoing music ministry and programming at Asbury First. This gift’s annual distribution to our annual budget (AOP) can be used to support the Director of Music Ministry position, a position we previously had at Asbury First.

Here is how Rev. Susan Shafer remembers Helen Fultz:

Helen Fultz was a beautiful gentle woman, whose life was the music of love. Helen, with her beloved Dan, are faithful, caring, generous people of God. Helen’s legacy is one of a beautiful soul and faithfulness to Asbury First, her family, and friends.”

Questions about planned giving?

Contact our Director of Development and Communications, Morgan Dornsife, at mdornsife@asburyfirst.org or at (585) 271-1050 x 110. Be sure to ask about our new guide to planned giving.

DAN AND HELEN FULTZ We are overwhelmed with gratitude for this gift. It is a beautiful way to remember Helen, who had the ability to make any person feel special and important in her presence. This gift (like all endowment gifts) is a legacy gift—by having the initial gift to manage and invest in our endowment, we secure that gift for generations to come and establish an annual revenue source for current church ministries. This is not the first gift of its type here at Asbury First, as the Susan Shafer Pastoral Care Endowment Fund supports the Minister for Congregational Care position, and the Craighead Music endowment fund supports the Principal Organist position.

Thank you Dan, for trusting Asbury First with this gift and allowing us to remember Helen in this way.

WELCOME CHAIR OF PLANNED GIVING COMMITTEE PETER OWH

Please join us in welcoming Peter Owh as chair of the Planned Giving Committee. Peter has been a member of the United Methodist Church since 2000. Previously at Babylon UMC, Peter served as Treasurer, member of both the Finance Committee and the Endowment Committee.

Peter is a current Managing Director of Centra Financial Group. He brings a wealth of information, expertise, and a heart for spiritual stewardship to Asbury First.

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THE LAST WORD

BY DR. CARL JOHENGEN

WELCOME DIRECTOR OF MUSIC MINISTRY choral section leaders—Bess, Susan, Dan and Jordan. I look forward to more opportunities to collaborate with them and to share their gifts. I’ve been very grateful for the welcome that I’ve gotten from Carol Lamica, Elizabeth Church, and Holly Temming, as well as the entire staff.

I have really been grateful to Brian Bohrer for showing me the ropes and for giving me a great orientation of what’s already been happening so well at Asbury First.

DR. CARL JOHENGEN I’ve been involved with churches my entire life and I’ve never experienced a church community that is as intentionally kind as Asbury First. From top to bottom, it seems that everyone is aware that whomever they might be dealing with at the moment is a companion on the journey, a fellow child of God—and that just makes it such a special place.

Asbury First is fortunate also to have great talent and dedication among the

Logistically, the music positions will report to me, and I will take over that piece of administration from David Strong. I will have an increased office presence and will work more closely with the pastors. It will open up new possibilities in which the way that worship and music will work together to create a more meaningful service. There is just such great creativity and I’m looking forward to finding new ways to channel that creativity into exciting worship, and new opportunities for our musicians to do interesting and different projects.

I’m pleased as punch! This past year has been so rewarding and I’m really looking forward to digging in more deeply.

Whether you’ve known Carl for years, or if you've just met him, Carl treats all as if he’s been friends with them forever. He is loving and welcoming to all—not just the musicians in the choirs, but to anyone who enters the doors of Asbury First. But beyond that, Carl has a spirit and manner that exemplifies “They’ll know we are Christians by our Love.” He loves people; he loves music; he loves the Lord, and he has demonstrated that with the choir. He always makes connections to scripture with our anthems, and he wants to make sure that we express in our music and in our manner, the spiritual meaning of the music in order to minister to the congregation. I am so very glad that Asbury found Carl and that Carl will be with us moving forward.”

– Ruth Phinney, choir member

BIOGRAPHY Dr. Carl Johengen is a multi-talented artist who has earned a reputation of excellence as a choral conductor, voice teacher, singer, and composer. He holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Eastman School of Music, as well as Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from Ithaca College.

He served for twelve years on the voice faculty of the Ithaca College School of Music, and for ten seasons as Music Director of the Cayuga Vocal Ensemble, Ithaca’s elite a cappella chamber chorus. He has conducted numerous all-county and area all-state festival choruses throughout New York. Other past positions include: Minister of Music at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, Bath NY; Choir Director at Wells College; Voice Faculty at the Berkshire Choral Festival; Founding Music Director of the Syracuse Gay and Lesbian Chorus; Chorus Master for Syracuse Opera; Diocesan Music Consultant for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse.

Carl’s life-long love of church music and congregational singing began in childhood; his father was the family church’s volunteer organist, and at a young age Carl sang solos in church, and studied piano and organ. His early ambition was to become a symphony oboist, but a stint in the college choir opened his eyes and ears to the vast repertoire of choral music and the expressive power of solo and ensemble singing. Since then, in a career spanning thirty-two years, he has worked with literally thousands of singers in church and civic choirs, workshops, festivals, classroom, and studio.

As a solo singer, Carl has performed in recital, concert, opera, and with major orchestras and regional opera companies. He has soloed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher and Alice Tully Halls, and at the Boston Early Music Festival.

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PERIODICAL 1050 EAST AVENUE • ROCHESTER, NY 14607 WWW.ASBURYFIRST.ORG

Address Service Requested

HELP US BRIDGE THE DIVIDE AND SPREAD THE LOVE

ONE HUG AT A TIME R Y FIRS U B S A T

August 8, 2019 at 6 pm After the great success of last year’s Hopscotch event, this year, we will attempt a new Guinness World Record with the LONGEST HUG RELAY! UN

WE NEED 1,300 PEOPLE!!!

ITE

D ME

T H O D I ST C H U RC H

FOOD TRUCKS • LIVE MUSIC • GAMES