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KARIN'S COMMENTS...

"I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing."

John 15:5

Just outside Nazareth, where Jesus grew up, you can see them on both sides of the road. They grow everywhere out of the dry, rocky soil. They are grapevines. Jesus grew up with those vines all around his village. He knew how you had to cut the wood to get the production plant. The vine and the branch relationship teach us something of what our relationship to Christ is like. It teaches a Christ centrality. Whenever we forget that Christ is the heart of everything, everything goes crooked. Branches are grafted to the vine or they no longer live.

When God is central: revenge changes to support, hate turns to love, greed moves to sharing, "don't care" looks like concern, and "me first" becomes "after you". Not only that -- to be a branch of the vine and have God central means:

We can relax --

we have the source of life;

We can forgive --

we have been forgiven;

We can share --

God provides all we need;

We can care --

God shows the way.

As Easter comes upon us this month, let us be centrally focused in Jesus Christ in all we do and all we are, so that the love of Christ shines forth from us.

Grace and peace,

JOHN'S JOTTINGS...

An interesting approach most of us pastors hear from time to time is: "My problem is how to really believe in the presence, and the reality of a God. I never see ... a God I can't touch, or feel, or smell ... a God who for all intents and purposes just doesn't seem 'to be there'." Basically, most believers go beyond this to affirm their God nonetheless, as very real and vital. Even so, many have that slight residue of doubt that sometimes gets in their way. As a matter of fact, I've frequently heard it said, "I never have any trouble with Jesus. Jesus was the Christ I know. It's the aspect of a hidden God that gives me troubles. If I could just see God one time, all my doubts would drift away."

To the question (if you are one who has these sorts of faith problems), I would direct you to a New Testament passage which, to me, summarizes the New Testament message - if not the entire Bible: II Corinthians 5:19: "In Christ, God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us." You might make this your memory passage for Lent - for what it says is this: All we ever need to see and know of God is right there in Jesus Christ. One can know and feel the Spirit of God in many ways, but a Christian can have a peculiar satisfaction in knowing that in Christ he or she sees all of God he or she ever needs to see. It is a "fait accompli" - an accomplished fact!

So - the next time you wonder and fret about what seems to you the hiddeness of God, look to this memory passage - and take heart in the fact that "God was in Christ..." and that's all you will ever need to know!

Blessings on you,

FOCUS ON STEWARDSHIP: Renewing Annual Estimate of Giving

St. Paul's is blessed with the generous commitment of the congregation to year-round stewardship. The church programs (worship, education, community service, music, evangelism, charity, etc.) require constant support, and our members provide that with their gifts.

Last fall, we faced special challenges in the form of urgent needs to replace a leaking boiler and sanctuary piano, and to meet our year-end commitment to the conference. As it happened, the latter was especially important this year to help the denomination respond to the Asian tsunami disaster. With hope - and some trepidation - we asked for "God's Miracle" to meet these needs. As the year ended, we were overjoyed to find that the loaves and fishes had multiplied, so to speak, and the needs were met. Thank you!

We have no such urgent need now, but as our church grows and we eagerly take up our missions and responsibilities inside and outside, our church needs your support as much as ever. You can help this month by renewing your annual financial commitment. The Finance Committee prepares an annual budget, approved by the Church Council, to ensure that our means match our ends. The cornerstone of the budgeting process is the written financial commitment that most church members make every year. By making a plan to give a certain amount - weekly, monthly, or yearly - you help the church plan and spend responsibly. Throughout the month of March, please prayerfully consider the commitment for regular giving that you and your family can make to the church during the coming year (April 1, 2005 through March 31, 2006). Soon you will receive a letter along with a commitment form, which we will collect during worship services the latter part of the month. Your participation in this annual renewal is a great help and is greatly appreciated.

-John Godfrey

Stewardship Coordinator

SO, WHEN DOES SUNDAY SCHOOL REALLY END (BEGIN) ANYHOW?

We always want Christian education to have some permanent presence in our lives; but, in Sunday School, we tend to focus more on Sunday mornings and the regular school year.

We anticipated that many families with Sunday School age kids would attend the "Joyful Rising" service at 9 am. We wanted a transition time between services: Elementary Dept. would have its "gathering" service at 10 am in Room 300; the Youth would have juice and donuts at 10 am in the Multipurpose Room; the Pre-School would gather in classrooms at 10 am for fellowship, but the "classes" would begin at 10:15.

Getting students to church at 10 am (and teachers there to greet students at 9:50 am) has proven difficult. We have also had worship services run later than 11:15 am, but Pastor Karin has started to dismiss parents if the service is running long.

We also need to extend our Sunday School year into June to reflect the Montgomery County public school schedule. Our teachers are used to having their volunteer duties over by Memorial Day. Are they willing to teach the extra Sundays in June?

Please send me an email with your feedback on the length of the school year and the length of the class time on Sunday mornings. We are making plans for next year and need your comments.

-Mike McCurry, Superintendent

mccurry5@aol.com

(301-949-4955)

UMW CIRCLES RESPOND TO WORLD NEED

Our Circles, along with other church members, responded generously to UMCOR's call for health kits to send to victims of the tsunami in Southeast Asia. Among the more than 100 kits put together by St. Paul's "family" members, 12 were from Miriam Circle; 10 from Sarah Circle; and a like number from Jochebed Circle. What joy will be on the faces of children who receive the gift of a toothbrush and a comb of their own! Thanks to all!

Coming Events

Thu. Mar 3 - DC Methodist Home Guild meets at 10:30 am at the Home, 4901 Conn. Ave., NW, Washington, DC.

Fri., Mar. 4 - WORLD DAY OF PRAYER will be observed at 10 am at St. Mark's Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Rd., Rockville. Please call Mabel Baker (301-949-5380) if interested.

Sat., Mar. 12 - Wash.-West District Prayer Breakfast at Colesville UMC, 10 am. Speaker: Rev. Dr. Terri Rae Chatlan, who did the study on prayer at the Conference School of Missions. Reservations may be made through your circle leader.

Save April 20th for the District Spring Spiritual Retreat. Details will be forthcoming.

Thanks to Lydia Circle for the ribbon markers they put in the pew Bibles to mark pages for hymns, etc. AND, for their sponsorship of the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper.

-Bev Burdin, Vice President

UNITED METHODIST MEN EXPAND SCOUTING SPONSORSHIP

We have exciting news to share with all -- about the new Cub Scout Pack #478 that we are now sponsoring. They have been in operation for over 50 years and have a very exciting program for boys from 1st to 5th grades. They were with us for the first time at the Scout Sunday worship service on Feb. 13th.

Our Executive Committee will meet on Wednesday, March 2nd at 7:30 pm in the Library.

The monthly Pancake Breakfast will be held on Saturday, March 5th from 8-10:30 a.m. in Heavener Hall. Proceeds will benefit the Red Bird Missionary Conference. Many thanks to our loyal pancake eaters and workers, who come out to support these breakfasts. Whether you come to eat or to work, it's a wonderful combination of gastronomic enjoyment and fellowship.

The February General Meeting was well attended, due to the enjoyable travelogue on western Canada, presented by Jim Heins. Mark your calendar for our next Supper and General Meeting, which will be held on Wednesday, April 6th -- with a presentation by Chris Higgins on his mission trip to India.

Reminder:

The UMM Indoor/Outdoor Yard Sale is not too far off, so please start gathering up those potential saleable treasures and trinkets. Sale dates: April 15, 16; receiving day, April 14.

Working with you in service,

Harold Moyer, Pres.

SEASONAL BOOKS ON DISPLAY IN CHURCH LIBRARY

The anticipation of Easter brings with it the remembrance of the Last Supper, and the commandments Jesus left for his Disciples and us. We have a new book in the library that examines this historic meal and its theological significance for our faith.

Take Eat, Take Drink: The Lord's Supper through the Centuries by Ernest Bartels (Concordia Publishing House, 2004, call #234.1) examines the diversity of beliefs regarding the Sacrament of the Last Supper. The book concludes with a series of study questions.

Come Thirsty (W Publishing Group, 2004, call #248.4) is by Max Lucado, one of our more popular authors. In this book, Lucado examines the text "Whoever drinks the water I give will never thirst. The water I give will become a spring of water gushing up inside that person, giving eternal life." John 4:14

These books and others on the meaning of Easter will be on display during March. Our children's table will feature books on the many celebrations of Easter - decorated eggs, rabbits, and the miracle of an empty tomb.

-Debra McCurry, Librarian

ATTENTION! ALL KEY CARRIERS!

On or about April 4th, all of the exterior doors to the church will have new keys!

With the departure of the Levine School of Music, this is an opportune time to address continuing concerns about safety and security of the church buildings and the people inside. We are changing the keys of the exterior doors only at this time.

The building will not be open as much or as often as it was while Levine was so active here. If you are responsible for a regular meeting, function or activity that requires you to be able to get into the church building, we hope you signed up in the Church Office during February to be eligible for an entrance key. Most people will be asked to use the parking lot entrance. If you need to use a different door (for instance, a handicapped entrance), that should be indicated when you signed up. After we know how many keys are needed, they will be made and distributed - hopefully, in late March. Obviously, we want everybody to have keys before the locks are changed. Once that is done, the old master keys (that so many of us have!) will no longer open the exterior doors. For now, the interior locks will remain unchanged.

When the new exterior door keys are distributed, you will be asked to sign a registration card promising to not duplicate or lend your key. AND, any keys to the church that you no longer need please turn them in.

-Eric Eaton, Vice Pres.

MARCH WORSHIP REFLECTS VARIETY, CHANGE AND RENEWAL

March is always a month of transition from winter to spring. During this season, we'll recall the mixed feelings of the Lenten season and the final days of Christ's life. Our worship themes will reflect this; and, we hope, you'll feel this transition at St. Paul's more than ever before.

As always, we'll welcome visitors to our church family, people from the community and other churches -- particularly on Easter Sunday. However, we'll start the month blessed with the joy or our musical missionaries from the Wesley Foundation of Virginia Tech. The Wesley Singers' coffeehouse/variety show on Saturday, March 5th, and musical worship on March 6th will provide opportunities to be uplifted. We will also have at least one baptism to remind us of so many different aspects of faith - images of ourselves being God's children, as well as fostering the faith of the newest member(s) of our church family.

The end of March will bring Holy Week: Passion/Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter - services you won't want to miss. (See front-page article of this issue). We hope that your worship at St. Paul's this holy season will leave you refreshed and renewed in your faith.

At the Leadership Retreat in February, we received feedback that the "Joyful Rising" services were fulfilling the need of many members of our congregation, and visitors. The Worship Ministry Team will review this service and is committed to increase our outreach and improve the quality of worship.

-Linda Ferrara, Chair

Worship Ministry Team

OLDER ADULTS ENJOY "TUESDAY TOGETHER"

This month's OAM "Tuesday Together", on March 15th, will of course have a Lenten focus, and will include some liturgical drama. It begins with an informal worship at 12 Noon in the Sanctuary, after which participants enjoy lunch ($4) and fellowship/games in the Octagon. Although the event is sponsored by OAM, people of all ages are welcome!

There is a great need for visitors in our Joyful Visitors program. Being a visitor involves making a 10-minute visit once or twice a month to a member of our church family who would benefit from the exchange. It's a great way to "let your light shine". For more information, please call Meg Baker, or Pastor John Walker (301-933-7933).

Meg Baker, OAM Chair

V V V V V

COLLEGE PASTORAL VISITS BEING PLANNED

In April, Rick Buckingham is planning to make pastoral calls on young adults from St. Paul's that are in school or the military located in the areas of northern Illinois, Indiana or western Ohio. Please let Rick know about persons who should be on his list - providing current contact information.

J J J J J

DON'T FORGET TO INCLUDE THE IMPROVEMENT FUND IN YOUR GIVING

Lately, the Board of Trustees has been hearing from members about problems with our parking lot doors. This concern has been noted -- and replacement of these doors has moved to the top of our "to do" list. The money required to replace these doors will come from the Improvement Fund -- to which many of our members generously donate each month. For those who have never given -- it's easy!

Improvement Fund envelopes appear with your bi-monthly mailed pledge envelopes. For those who don't received mailed pledge envelopes, you can find Improvement Fund envelopes in the pew racks!

As this fund grows, the Trustees can move more quickly to make necessary repairs and improvements throughout our aging building.

A special thanks to Steve and Matt Perfater who generously donated their professional services to upgrading the electrical service in our parsonage.

-Board of Trustees

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HISTORY TIDBIT

Question:

What kind of lamps lighted St Paul's, prior to 1910, in the old sanctuary at the corner of Fawcett & Mitchell Street?

[Answer is hidden elsewhere in this issue]

MEET OUR LAY LEADERS

[A continuing series]

"We want more St. Paul's men involved in United Methodist Men activities," says UMM president and church Webmaster Harold Moyer. Equipped with spiritual gifts of generosity, servanthood and nurturing leadership, Harold is involved in Boy Scout Troop 439, the Youth Council, Rebuilding Together (formerly "Christmas in April"), the Lock-up Committee, Counting Team, and ushering. He is a new member of the Board of Trustees. His passion is helping where needed.

A native of Lansdale, Pa., Harold attended CREI (now Capitol College), and earned a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. His 1973 graduation was held in our Heavener Hall. He worked at Foss Nirsystems and its predecessors for 30 years, most recently as the materials manager. Two years ago, he decided to retire.

In 1985 Harold, his wife Del, and sons David and John joined St. Paul's. Del is a Special Education Para-Educator and lunch aide with the Montgomery County Schools. John attends Capitol College, as did his dad and grandfather, and works as a network manager. David has a B.S. in computer science from the Univ. of Md. and manages Information Technology for Digital Infusion. David's wife, Barbara (Bickford), is an elementary media specialist in the Howard County Schools.

In his free time, Harold collects coins, helps others with computer problems, and does home repair.

FRIENDSHIP CLUB READY TO CELEBRATE SPRING

On Tuesday, March 8th, the Friendship Club will meet in Heavener Hall at 11:30 am for the usual potluck lunch -- and to "think spring"! For the program, we will welcome back Jim Heins with one of his fabulous travelogues -- this time, on the country "down under" so to speak -- Australia.

Those planning to go on the June Friendship Club trip need to get in the balance of $67 to either Erma McWilliams, or to Walter Miller (who we hope has had a speedy recovery and will be back with us soon).

Last month, on a beautiful, almost spring-like day, 78 members gathered for a lovely potluck lunch, followed by entertainment by Dena Javor. Both her musical talent and the jokes seemed to be enjoyed by all.

Until we see each other (on March 8th, hopefully), "walk carefully" - and look for signs of spring!

-Sue Merritt, Reporter

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UMYF "SOUPer Bowl" IS GREAT SUCCESS!

Thanks to all who supported this year's project on Superbowl Sunday, February 6th. The youth collected a record $430, which was donated to Bethesda HELP.

THE MOUNTAIN WAY SHOP OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

Our craft shop is open on Sundays, after worship; on Pancake Breakfast Saturdays; and on Wednesdays, 10 am to 1 pm. We're there waiting for YOU to stop by and see all the items we have for sale!

And remember to bring in those labels from Campbells, Pepperidge Farm, Franco-American, Swanson and Prego products. We will be turning them in for redemption this spring.

Quote:

"Bibles that are falling apart usually belong to people who aren't."

Shopkeepers Ken & Evelyn Pinkard

(301-942-2231)

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A Fun Time and a Fund-Raiser

The annual YOUTH VARIETY SHOW will be held in Heaverner Hall on Palm Sunday evening, March 20th, 7-8:30 p.m. This is always an anticipated time of great fun for the entire family, and serves as the primary fund-raiser for our UMYF summer trip. Tickets, including the show and dessert, will be: $7-adult; $5-youth; $3-under 12.

This year, we will again be participating in a GROUP work-camp, doing improvements on homes of senior citizens in Valdosta, Georgia

§ § § § §

The spiritual significance of our chancel screen was thoughtfully considered when our new sanctuary was designed after the fire of 1966.

A "rood" screen, often supported by a beam (rood beam), is an old tradition in many medieval churches. It serves as a partition between the nave and the chancel or choir. These screens may be seen in some European cathedrals. There is a rood beam with a crucifix at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC. Similar screens such as ours (called "reredos" screens) were installed in three other area churches by our architect.

Our Building Committee especially chose the contour pattern of St. Paul’s screen in 1967. It was felt that the play of light and shadow on the screen would create the effect of depth. The artistry of the screen has many symbols - the gold (sprayed aluminum) "swirls" suggest the flames from the fire. The dove at the center of the beam represents the Holy Spirit descending from above. Our screen gives a visual message of thanksgiving for the blessing of victory over destruction of the fire. "Beauty from Ashes" was a theme often used during the years 1966-68.

Sometimes the early morning sun, shining through the faceted glass window at the back of the chancel, gives a "prism-like" color below a shadow of the wooden cross on the left side of the ceiling over the choir loft. [Bill Rhodes' painting, hanging in the Octagon, picks up the prism colors of the sun's rays.]

We thank God for an awesome setting for worship.

Mabel Baker (301-949-5380)

History Committee Member

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BAKE SALE TO BENEFIT EDUCATIONAL AWARD FUND

Come prepared, on Saturday, March 5th, to the Pancake Breakfast when the youth will be selling delicious home-baked goods beginning at 8 am. All donations are welcome! Please indicate ingredients and suggested price on a label. Proceeds will benefit our 2005 Educational Award for college-bound high school seniors.

Questions? Call Rick Buckingham (301-933-7933).

......

SNOW / ICE PROVIDE RARE PREDICAMENT

On Sunday, January 30th, the Board of Trustees made the decision to cancel the 8 am and 9 am services. By 8 am, it was still snowing; the walks, the church and town parking lots, and streets had not yet been plowed -- and the forecast was calling for the snow to turn to ice. It was the decision of the Trustees, in consultation with staff, to cancel all church services out of concern for the safety of our members, many whom serve as volunteers in some capacity each week, and feel a strong obligation to be here if the building is open. Although this is a very rare occurrence, we will always put the safety of our membership first.

On snowy Sundays, without ice, we will have church. Our pastors and musicians are able to be present. In fact, Pastor Karin will often stay overnight in the area if snowfall is predicted.

-Tracey Furman, Pres.

"Bethesda Help gratefully acknowledges your recent contribution of groceries to our food pantry. Donations such as yours are very much appreciated and are of great assistance in helping us meet the needs of the community we serve. Thanks so much!"

"Thank you so much for your recent donation to our center. As you know, we rely on the generosity and efforts of organizations such as you to fulfill our mission. Each week we provide clothing and housewares, free of charge, to hundreds of men, women and children. Your contribution of winter gear is greatly appreciated. Jill Maltzman, Director, Community Ministry of Montgomery County."

"I want to thank those United Methodist Men who came out and braved the cold in January to help install the heating/air-conditioning units on the Retreat Center at West River Center - and to help put on the new door knobs in the lodges. By the end of the week, the rooms were warm and toasty. Even on these cold days, when the temperature outside is around 15 degrees, the rooms are warm. That didn't happen with those old baseboard heaters. You all were heroic in your efforts to work in the cold to get this accomplished. You are a blessing to us at West River. In Christ, Andrew Thornton, Director."

"I can't thank you enough for the wonderful job you did providing meals for the Community Based Shelter in January. Not only were your meals tasty and nutritious, but also your 'servers' really brightened the evening for our residents. I know they would want me to send their warmest thanks for your graciousness and generosity. Many blessings, Cindy Hall, Volunteer Coordinator."

"My heartfelt thanks to all which so generously contributed to "God's Miracle" fund. I hope you will take a minute to see our new piano in the Sanctuary. This is an instrument any pianist would love to play, and I know many will for years to come. I would also like to thank Gerry Hobbs for the gift of the wonderful new piano in Room 211. Gerry's support of worship and music at St. Paul's, plus the weekly hugs, is an inspiration to all of us. Jim and Gerry's generosity is legendary at St. Paul's, and this gift in memory of Jim will remind us weekly of how much we all benefit from having them in our midst. Sandy Price was the first to step up when we realized that we would be losing our pianos from the Levine School sooner than later. I would like to thank her for the very sweet parlor grand that is now in my office and was given in Bob's memory. No one loved to sing a hymn "in the basement" better than Bob Price. Marvin and I would like to thank everyone for his or her gifts to the music department. We are grateful for all that you do. And now, with instruments like these, we can continue to plan exciting and meaningful worship to the glory of God! Tom Pedersen"

"Thank you to St. Paul's United Methodist Men for their gift of $300 (from the January Pancake Breakfast) in support of the UMYF summer work camp in Valdosta, Georgia. Also, thank you to all who supported the Scout Sunday luncheon on February 13th. This event raised $600 for the mission."

"The ladies of UMW Lydia Circle wish to thank the men (John Brown, Steve Perfater, Tom Bickford, Roy Carter, Dave Peters and Bob Neidecker) who gave of their time and energy to help us prepare, serve and clean-up the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on February 8th. It was a huge success, and we could not have done it without you. Thank you again so much. Elaine Neidecker"

§ § § §

SPORTS CAMP TO BE HELD

AT WEST RIVER

We will be heading to West River once again for Sports Camp, July 31-August 4. Kids ages 5th thru 9th grade are eligible. And, during the same week, there is a sailing camp for senior highs; and discovery camp for younger children. A few good men and women are still needed. For questions or more information, see Pastor Karin.

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VIM TRIP TO NICARAGUA

IN THE WORKS

Karin Walker and Rick Buckingham are jointly leading an intergenerational group to Libre, Nicaragua after Christmas 2005 (early January 2006). The group will be visiting with our missionary, Nan McCurdy, and working on several projects. Cost and exact dates will be forthcoming soon. If you are interested, please sign the sheet in the Church Office. AND, if you are interested in training to be a VIM Coordinator for St. Paul's, please speak to Karin as soon as possible.

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CELEBRATION TO HONOR

RICK BUCKINGHAM

This year will mark Rick Buckingham’s 20th year at St. Paul’s. He has played an integral role in making St. Paul’s the vibrant, caring and supporting church it is today, and we would like to show our gratitude for his ministry. We are currently developing plans to celebrate this special occasion on Sunday, May 1. We would like to present Rick with a scrapbook and we need your assistance in gathering pictures, memories, mementos, etc. If you have something you would like to contribute to the scrapbook, please drop these items off in the Church Office, give to Carol Lewis or leave on her desk. We welcome your input and thoughts. Matt Ballard (MattSBallard@aol.com) and Hal Frazier (hafrazier@onebox.com) will serve as the points of contact.

St. Paul's United Methodist Church

10401 Armory Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895

301-933-7933 Fax. 301-933-4418

Home Page: http://www.stpaulsk.org

E-mail: stpaulsunited@verizon.net

Pastor Karin W. Walker

Visitation Pastor John C. Walker

Min. of Ed/Yth. Richard L. Buckingham

Wesley Sem. Intern Michele Van Son

Music Director N. Thomas Pedersen

Organist Marvin Mills

Office Manager Carol Lewis

Assistant Administrator Beverly Burdin

Membership Secretary Betty Simmons

Coord. Of Lay Ministries Kate Lewis Brown

Volunteers for mailing the February EPISTLE: Adda Clark, Gerry Hobbs, Nelson Hunt, Ida DeVierno, Evelyn Schaeffer, Mae Miles, Frances Reed, John Boggess, Vernon Pierce.

St. Paul’s EPISTLE&
Kensington, Maryland	March 2005	Vol. 49, No. 2

St. Paul’s EPISTLE&

Kensington, Maryland

March 2005

Vol. 49, No. 2