St. Paul’s EPISTLE&

Kensington, Maryland
May 2005
Vol. 49, No. 4

 


 

 

 

CONFIRMATION CLASS JOINS ST. PAUL'S ON PENTECOST SUNDAY

 

Our Confirmation Class will soon complete their 3-month course of study and become full members of our church.  In addition to the weekly sessions on theology, Bible, church history and the Christian life, the class attended a Spiritual Life Retreat led by Rev. Karin.

 

The term, "Confirmation" refers to the efforts of the church to help "make firm and sure" the growing faith of its young people.  Whereas in the Sacrament of Baptism, God acts to choose us and set us apart as those who will love and serve the world in the name of Jesus Christ, at the time of Confirmation, we choose to accept that identity, and commence adult lives of Christian service.

 

In these final days of preparation leading up to Pentecost (5/15), all are asked to pray for our class members to receive the Holy Spirit into their lives; and then to celebrate with them as they continue their journey in faith with the new responsibilities of church membership. We extend the right hand of Christian fellowship to:

 

GEORGINA B                     CAROLINE J

MICHAEL B                    NICHOLAS A. J

KAP C                              HANNA M. R

KRISTEN C                            TANYA S

JAMES C                          GARRETT S

JOSEPH C                            JANICE S

TIMOTHY D                        REBECCA S

PAUL H


A MONTH OF SUNDAYS NOT TO BE MISSED!

 

May will prove to be a month of Sundays jam-packed with special events, recognitions and joyful worship. Special tribute was paid to 50-year members on Heritage Sunday in April.  This month, there will be focus on our younger church members as 15 youths (most of whom have attended St. Paul's from a very early age) are confirmed on Pentecost Sunday, May 15th.

Prior to this event, however, we will honor a gentleman - Rick Buckingham - who has provided a special link between the two focus groups.  On Sunday, May 1st Rick - always young at heart, yet wise beyond his years - will be honored for his 20 years of service in the ministry.  There are not enough words to express how much he has contributed to our worship at St. Paul's, or how much he has positively impacted the lives of so many youth and adults during that time.  We are truly blessed to have him as a part of our "family".  It is our hope that, during the May 1st worship service and following events, we can portray to Rick how much he means to us.  (PS - For those who don't know, his birthday is May 17th!).

 

In addition to these two major worship events, there will be other recognitions, baptisms, and special music during the month. 

 

Linda Ferrara, Chair

Worship Ministry Team

THE   PASTORS'   PAGE

 


KARIN'S COMMENTS...

 

"Sing a new song to the Lord, he to whom wonders belong!  Rejoice in his triumph and tell of his power; O sing to the Lord a new song."                 Psalm 98

 

I read an article recently about belief in moral absolutes.  People who believe there are any stand at 22%, down from 38% six years ago.  People, aged 36 or younger, were the least likely to believe.

On April 17th, I spoke about God's promises and how important some absolutes are for us as people of faith.

First, it is an absolute for us that God is good.  Regardless of the mishaps and suffering in the world and in our individual lives, our faith would be shattered if we could not believe that God is good.  And because God is good, He is able to help us through the difficult times and help us seek meaning out of our suffering.  God is there to form a blessing out of the awfulness of life.

Second, God is present.  Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we trust that God is always available and involved.  Somehow, either through the hands and hearts of others...through prayer...through praise, we can sense the Holy.  But we must make room for the Holy Spirit by setting aside time and space for Him to be a part of our lives.

Third, God requires obedience.  The Bible is our primary source of information about how He wants us to act as Christians.  God, through Jesus Christ, put love first and we are to act as He did--out of love.  When we are perfected in our ability to love, then we are obedient followers.

These three simple "absolutes” will keep us grounded in faith.

         SPRINGTIME OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND FOR UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

 

May Fellowship Day, sponsored by Church Women United, will be celebrated on Friday, May 6th at Faith UMC in Rockville, 10:30 a.m. followed by a catered lunch ($6).  Theme for the day is "Living in the Light".  Reservations are required, so call Mabel Baker (301-949-5380) if you are interested in attending.

 

Take a respite from those spring cleaning chores and catch up on your reading by exploring some of the new books on the UMW cart in the Library!

 

Save the date of Saturday, June 11th, for our "Welcome to Summer Tea", which will be held from 3-5 p.m. in Heavener Hall.  All women and girls in St. Paul's "family" are invited!  A fun program is planned, and delicious goodies will be served.  Reservations (limited to 100 persons) will be taken in the Church Office on Sundays, May 29th and June 5th.

 

Pray for these devoted missionaries (who have birthdays this month) as they serve God around the world.

 

Isabelle N. Bupe  (Kenya)

Diana Hearn  (Alaska)

Sue Kao  (Taiwan)

 

Join us to celebrate Spring and Summer by participating in one of the above.

 

-Bev Burdin, V. President

 

 

U.M. MEN CONSIDER MONTH OF MAY VERY SPECIAL

 

May is a very special month for men!  Mother's Day is a chance to honor the woman who taught you the serious lessons of life, and also the illogical ones -- like "When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me". J

It is also a time to honor a wife for being your partner in life, bringing a family of love into the world, and also putting up with you at the same time.

 

Thanks to all the workers, shoppers and donors at the Spring Yard Sale.  We made $7,550!

 

Activities this month include:

 

Wed., May 4 - Executive Committee

7:30 p.m. - Library

 

Sat., May 7 - Pancake Breakfast

8-10:30 a.m. - Heavener Hall

(Set-up - 6:45-8 a.m.)

 

Sat., May 14 - Spring Workday

Sign-up sheet in the Church Office

 

I'm glad to serve with you!

 

Harold Moyer, UMM President

 

 

                                Grace and Peace,

                                             Karin


JOHN'S JOTTINGS...

 

Many of us wonder from time to time how our Lord Jesus really looked.  One of my favorites is the picture on the wall in the room Kate, Michelle and I share (we call it "the Pub").  There is a well-documented tradition, by Publius Lentulus, a friend of Pilate, who wrote the following:  "In this time appeared a man endowed with great powers.  His name is Jesus.  His disciples call him the Son of God.  He is of noble and well-proportioned stature, with a face full of kindness, and yet firmness, so that beholders both love him and fear him.  His hair is the color of wine, straight and without luster, but from the level of the ears curling and flossy.  His forehead is even and smooth, his countenance ingenuous (simplicity and candidness) and kind.  Nose and mouth are in no way faulty.  His beard is full, of the same color as his hair; his eyes are blue (blue eyes?) and extremely brilliant.  In reproof and rebuke he is formidable; in exhortation and teaching, gentle and amiable of tongue.  None have seen him to laugh, but many, on the contrary, to weep.  His person is tall, his hands beautiful and straight.  In speaking, deliberate, grave, little given to loquacity (talkativeness); in beauty, surpassing most men."

 

Josephus, the great Jewish historian (AD 37-AD 100) records this:  "Now there was about this time, Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call Him a man, for He was a doer of wonderful works--a teacher of such men as receive the truth with pleasure.  He drew over to Him both many of the Jews, and many of the Gentiles.  He was (the) Christ, and when Pilate, at the suggestion of the principal men amongst us, had condemned Him to the cross, those that loved Him at the first did not forsake Him, for He appeared to them alive again the third day, as the divine prophets had foretold these and ten thousand other wonderful things concerning Him; and the tribe of Christians so named from Him, are not extinct at this day."

 

An incredible man, this Jesus.  What would we do without Him!?

 

Peace,

Pastor John

MEMORIAL GARDEN TO BE ENHANCED

 

"THIS GARDEN HOUSES A COLUMBARIUM WHERE THE EARTHLY REMAINS OF ONES BELOVED BY US AND COMMENDED TO GOD IN THEIR DEATH ARE INTERRED.  IT MEMORIALIZES OTHER LOVED ONES TO BE NAMED ON THE PLAQUES IN THIS BEAUTIFUL GARDEN OF REMEMBRANCE.  THEY ARE STILL A PART OF US BECAUSE OUR MEMORIES AND PLEASANT THOUGHTS OF THEIR LIFE WILL NOT LET THEM GO BEYOND THE BOUNDARIES OF OUR MINDS."

(FROM GARDEN DEDICATION, JUNE 18, 1995)

 

The cross has come to be a reminder of Jesus' crucifixion, giving us comfort knowing that Jesus died to give us a new life in the forgiveness of our sins and the resurrection to everlasting life.  Therefore, it is felt that the presence of a cross in our Memorial Garden would greatly strengthen this reminder.

A monument, bearing a symbolic cross has been designed and approved by The Board of Trustees, and will be placed above, and centered with the existing fountain.  A rendering of the monument will be placed in the Narthex during the month of May.

 

Some money is available in the church's Memorial Fund. However, this will not be sufficient and we will have to depend on contributions.  If you care to make a donation to this very special feature of the Memorial Garden, please mark your check "Memorial Garden Cross and send it to the Church Office.

 

Ken Rhodes

 

FRIDAY THE 13TH FEATURES "FOOD AND FLICKS"

 

Come, celebrate (May) Friday the 13th with dinner and a movie and, in the process, support the fundraiser for refurbishing the Youth Lounge.

 

The most beloved Pulitzer Prize book, "To Kill a Mockingbird" comes alive on the screen in Heavener Hall.  Relive how Atticus Finch, lawyer in the Depression-era South, defends a black man against an underserved rape charge, and his kids against prejudice.

 

An animation film for the kids will also be shown at the same time -- so there will be two movies from which to choose.

 

The wonderful chefs from UMW Jochebed Circle will prepare a sandwich and salad buffet with desserts -- and even a popcorn machine!

 

So, mark your calendar for this big event.  Tickets can be obtained in the Narthex or Church Office  ($10 adults; $5 kids; maximum $25 per family). 

 

Carol Davies

DID YOU HEAR BELLS?

 

The "Joyful Ringers!" handbell choir debuted on Sunday, March 13th with those sweet bell tones, ringing "Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty" in perfect harmony.  The fledgling group is made up of a full range of musicians from the brand new novice learning how to read music, to bell ringers with years of experience.  The choir, co-directed by Keely Fraser and Linda Ferrara, consists of Tracey Furman, Ginger Geertsema, Jackie Holmes, Lev Keely, Elaine Neidecker, Carolyn Rees and Jean Thompson.

 

What's new with the handbell program this season?  We are playing "musical bells" with each piece - that is, each member will move to a different position and different bells than they played in the piece before.  Even the directors change! 

 

You will be hearing the bells much more frequently than you have in recent years.  We plan to perform every month through June, and then resume again in September.  Our remaining performances for this season will be at the 10:15 a.m. worship services on May 22nd and June 12th.

 

If you are interested in learning more about the group - or possibly ringing with us - please call Keely Fraser (301-933-5166).

 

"SENIOR MOMENTS" PLANNED WITH INTERGENERATIONAL APPEAL

 

St. Paul's older adult community "seniors" will be honoring soon-to-graduate high school "seniors" with a reception in the Narthex on May 22nd, immediately following the 10:15 a.m. worship service.  Everyone is welcome to join the festivity and encourage these young folks as they step out into their exciting tomorrows.

Come out for this month's Tuesdays Together on May 17th.  This midday gathering - open to all ages - begins with worship and communion in the Sanctuary at 12 Noon, and continues in the Octagon with lunch ($4), fellowship and board games.

When was the last time you took a field trip?  Please join us for a trip to the Franciscan Monastery in Washington, DC on Wednesday, May 18th.  The visit will include a guided tour of many Holy Land places replicated there.  We will depart from the church parking lot at 9:45 a.m. and return by 2:30 p.m.  There is a sign-up sheet in the Church Office.

Lastly, please consider attending the conference-wide retreat at West River in June.  "Don't Worry…Be Happy" is the theme for this event, which will feature bible study, personal reflection, lively discussion, breakout sessions, outdoor worship, and all the wonderful amenities afforded by the West River retreat facility.  Please sign up in the Church Office.

 

Hope to see you!

 

Meg Baker, Chair

OAM Ministry

FIFTY-YEAR MEMBERS HONORED

 

On HERITAGE SUNDAY, April 24th, ten persons - who have been members of our church for 50 years - were honored during the 10:15 a.m. worship service.

 

In the past month, we have received five new members:

 

If YOU are interested in becoming a full member of St. Paul's, please contact Pastor Karin.

 

Betty Simmons

Membership Secretary

 

FRIENDSHIP CLUB TO ENJOY CATERED LUNCHEON

 

We hope to see a lot of smiling faces on Tuesday, May 10th, at 11:30 a.m. in Heavener Hall.  Our gathering will feature a catered luncheon, so it will be absolutely necessary for everyone to get his or her name on the list to attend.  When the Phone Committee person calls, please let them know for sure if you plan to attend.  The entertainment will be a new program for the group, and will be provided by Mary Ann Jung, who does interpretations.  It is a one-person show and she will be performing as Clara Barton.  It promises to be very entertaining!  This will be our last meeting at the church until fall.  In June, the group will be enjoying their bus trip.

 

We were greeted with such a beautiful meeting day in April that approximately 80 "seniors" came out, and a great time was had by all.  The entertainment was by Michael Consoli and, in between his solo numbers, he had the audience singing along with provided song sheets.

 

Looking forward to seeing all of your smiling faces on May 10th. In the meantime, enjoy this wonderful spring weather!

 

    Sue Merritt, Reporter

SPRING "WORKDAY" SLATED

 

Saturday, May 14th will be the Spring Workday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.  The Trustees are keeping their fingers crossed that the weather will be sunny since most of the projects will be outdoors.  No experience is necessary -- just a willing spirit!  A sign-up sheet is in the Church Office so we can plan projects accordingly.  Morning coffee and donuts, plus a midday lunch will be provided in the Octagon for all the hungry workers!

 

Don't forget to support the Improvement Fund through your monthly donations.  This giving helps the Trustees supplement their general budget repairs and maintenance.  Along with the new parking lot doors (that were recently installed!), the fund will partially cover this summer's refurbishment of the Multipurpose Room, improvements in the Sunday School areas, and several painting projects throughout the building.

 

We continue to actively seek a replacement tenant and are currently working with two prospects.  We hope to have a signed lease agreement in the near future.  Look for updates in upcoming Epistle articles.

 

Tracey Furman, President

Board of Trustees

 

"PRAYER LIFT" WILL CHANGE TO SUMMER SCHEDULE

 

As in past years, the weekly gathering of "Prayer Lift" in DuVall Chapel will end on Tuesday, May 31st.  HOWEVER, all of those needing prayers will NOT be abandoned!  The prayer group will shift to using a telephone "prayer chain" to keep abreast of the needs.

If you wish to make a prayer request, please notify the Church Office and the "wheels will turn" to assure that the "Prayer Lift" group activates the prayer chain.

Regular weekly gatherings will resume in the fall.

 

³³³³³

 

CHARGE CONFERENCE TO BE HELD

 

Our District Superintendent has scheduled a Charge Conference to be held at St. Paul's on Tuesday, May 24 at 7:30 p.m.  Mark your calendar NOW and plan to be in attendance.

 

MEET OUR LAY LEADERS

[A continuing series]

 

"St Paul's ministers through pastors, musicians, programs and our administrative staff.  The Staff Parish Relations Committee assures that the staff is appropriately supported and compensated," says Committee chair, Hal Frazier.

Born and raised in Ohio, Hal received his M.D. from Dartmouth Medical School in New Hampshire.  He interned and served at Bethesda Naval Hospital.  From 1991 to 2000, he was an attending urologist at the National Naval Medical Center and Walter Reed Army Medical Center, caring for members of the military and Federal Government leaders.  He currently holds positions at the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, GWU Medical Center and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences.

Hal came to St. Paul's in 1993.  He has chaired the Stewardship Committee; served on the lock-up team, the Children's Council, and the Volunteers in Missions; and is an usher team captain.  Hal's wife Annie is a medical illustrator at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, and a radiologist at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore.  Son Duncan (6) is energetic and enthusiastic.  Son Ian (11) is imaginative, and gifted in music and the arts.

Hal uses his gifts in communication and teaching to mentor medical students.  He has served at summer camps and chaperoned his children's school trips.  In his leisure time, he plays piano, listens to music, reads, and kayaks or rides his bike.

                                     -Jan Aamodt


THE MOUNTAIN WAY SHOP IS "OFF AND RUNNING"

 

The shop's busy season is already beginning!

 

We have two dates in May for church appearances; and have been invited to the United Methodist Annual Conference to be held in Baltimore at the end of May.  In July, we will go to Hagerstown for the UMW's School of Christian Missions weekend.  On all of these dates we will be taking our crafts and are hoping for super sales!

 

Quote:

 

"My mother's menu consisted of two choices: take it or leave it."

 

 

        Ken & Evelyn Pinkard, Shopkeepers

 

R R R R R

 

O O P S ! !

 

Last month's issue of the Epistle failed to give the answer to the History Tidbit question.  We apologize for the omission and, therefore, are publishing the question again.  You can find the answer elsewhere in this issue.

 

Question:

Who was President of the Evening Circle of the Women's Society of Christian Service in 1942?  What special skill did she share?

 

 

[EPISTLE Editor]

USEFUL, REALISTIC, DOWN-TO-EARTH BOOKS AVAILABLE IN OUR LIBRARY

 

Our nicer weather brings springtime cleaning, yard work and other practical chores.  However, "practicality" is not a word that one often uses to describe religious or theological books.  Listed below are two new additions to our library shelves that may appear to the more practical side of our readers.  Please stop by the library during the month of May to preview these books and others in our display.

 

God is my CEO: following God's principles in a bottom-line world (call #248.8 Jul) by Larry Julian, a specialist in leadership development.  He has compiled reflections from several leaders in the business and sports fields, and has asked them to examine their views of success and productivity with a foremost priority of trusting God.  With this trust comes a freedom to be a servant leader.

 

If you want to look for an obscure subject in the bible, how can you find it?  Here is a practical guide, Where to find it in the Bible: the ultimate A to Z resource by Ken Anderson (call #220.3 And REF) that should be helpful in answering questions that arise from simple curiosity.  From arrows to earrings to the more serious topics of redemption and bearing witness, you can find in this index the biblical chapter and verse for these subjects - and many more.

 

For children, being practical means asking a lot of questions.  Questioning and receiving answers help a child to make sense of their world.  Our children's table this month will feature books on God and the concept of heaven.  We hope these books will help answer some of those "practically" impossible questions.

 

Debra McCurry, Librarian

 

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS TO BE RECOGNIZED

 

Our church recognizes several milestones in the growth of our young people.  One of these is their departure from high school and commencement of a new life, whether that is to a job, the military, or college.  On Sunday, May 22nd, each member of the Class of 2005 is asked to attend the 10:15 a.m. worship service so that he/she may receive a New Revised Standard version of The Holy Bible.  Whatever direction a life may take, the Word of God will help in choosing the best path.

CONGRATULATIONS and BEST WISHES to:

 

Maile B                           Stephanie S

Elizabeth B                          Billy D. S

Gregory E. C                         Celine S

Jeffrey T. D                       Elizabeth Y

 

In the same service, one or more of our college-bound graduates will also receive Educational Awards to assist with their college expenses.  Our 2004-2005 UMYF Officers will also be recognized at this service.

 

SENIOR HIGH UMYF

President                                   Chris H

Vice-President                            Brian T

Secretary                                    Ted L

Treasurer                                Monica T

CYM Representative             Vinny Battle N

CCYM Representative                    Chris H

 

MIDDLE HIGH UMYF

President                                 Bobby H

Vice-President                              Tim H

Secretary                                    Alli M

Treasurer                                 Hanna R

CYM Representatives                 Michael H

                 Connor J

Youth Choir                             Megan G

CYM Representative                      Chris H

SUNDAY SCHOOL NEARS END AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES BEGIN

 

As a successful Sunday School year winds down, here are some reminders of upcoming events and opportunities:

 

vvLast lessons.  Current teachers finish their duties on May 29th.

 

vvFinal classes are June 5th and 12th.  Current teachers may teach if they wish; we need volunteers or future teachers to try their hand in the classroom on these Sundays.

 

vvSummer Sunday School begins June 19th.  Sign-up sheets for these informal sessions will be posted in the Church Office and education areas.  Please consider giving one of your summer Sundays to our young people.

 

vvWe will have a strong and enthusiastic Vacation Bible School June 20-24.  There are classes for pre-school and elementary; and opportunities to serve and help for older kids.  We still need adult volunteers, too.

 

This has been a great year and we will thank all teachers, lay leaders, and Sunday School volunteers at our traditional Strawberry Social following worship and classes on June 5th.  Join us in Heavener Hall at 11:30 a.m.

 

Mike McCurry, Superintendent

A FRIEND IN NEED.....

 

In times of trouble, we look to caring Christian friends to listen to us while we work through our feelings.  A Stephen Minister can be such a friend, either to you or to someone you know.  The Stephen Ministers at St. Paul's are committed to providing Christian care for others experiencing many different needs. 

If you or someone you know could benefit from the trained, caring presence and listening ear of a Stephen Minister, please speak with the pastors, or call John or Kate Brown (301-946-2008).

 

ü ü ü ü ü

 

WORK CAMP VOLUNTEERS TO ENJOY TUTTI-FRUITTI PARTY

 

All adults and youth participating in this summer's work camp, July 9-16 in Valdosta, Georgia, will gather in the Multipurpose Room on Sunday evening, May 15th to create an artistic "Bowl of Fruit", to take to the work camp.  The artworks will be used to decorate the worship area of the camp.  At the end of that week, each participating group will bring home the art of one of the other groups as a reminder of the fellowship experienced together.

All Senior Highers and incoming 9th graders are invited to join the party, as the election of Senior High Officers for 2005-2006 is also on the agenda.

 

Please note:  An additional adult chaperone (preferably male), 21 or older is still needed for the work camp.  Call Rick Buckingham (301-933-7933) to inquire.

 

MAKING OUR VISITORS FEEL WELCOME

 

Have you ever stopped to consider that Jesus Christ has asked us, to be the "caretakers" of His house here on earth?  And that He wants us not only to maintain it, but to invite company over...and to make them feel welcome and at home.  Below are some facts about welcoming guests.

 

  Most first-time guests decide whether they will come back before they leave the parking lot.  The decision is based on their perception of a church's friendliness to a stranger (not to each other).

 

The most important factor in a first time guest's perception of a church's friendliness is what happens in the first ten minutes after the end of the service.

 

The perception of friendliness on the part of first-time guests is the number of people who talk with them, and whether people engage them in conversation.

 

  The second most important factor in a first time visitor's perception of a church's friendliness is the first ten minutes after they pull into the parking lot.

 

We don't have a second chance to make a good first impression.

 

Beginning in May, at the end of each service, the pastors will ask visitors to raise their hands.  The congregation is being asked to greet those visitors, ask their names, introduce them to the pastor on the way out of the Sanctuary, walk with them to the coffee hour, and even introduce them to others.

Please join the pastors in this intentional way of growing our congregation!

 

Kate Lewis Brown

FREQUENT FLIER MILES NEEDED

 

This summer, the World Methodist Evangelism Council is sponsoring the 8th International Christian Youth Conference on Evangelism (ICYC-VIII) in Teresopolis, Brazil.  Do not be fooled by the name!  Internationally, the term "youth" refers to the age range of 17-30, so most of the "youth" will be college students.  St. Paul's has sent one or two representatives to each of the last four conferences, which are held about every four years and in different countries:  Michael Butz and Doug Tzan (Mexico); Rebecca Butz (Germany); David and Barbara Moyer (Georgia, US); and John Moyer and Jason Townsend (Northern Ireland).  They can tell you of their experiences making friends from around the world in an exciting environment of Christian worship and culture.

St. Paul's has funding in our budget to cover the registration costs, including room and board, for several young adults to be part of this conference.  Currently, Caitlin Furman is planning to attend.  The larger cost, however, is that of travel between Washington and Rio de Janeiro.  As in the past, we are asking if anyone in the congregation would be in a position to donate their frequent flier miles to this cause.  The church would cover the cost of taxes.  Your donation will make a major difference in our ability to assist our young adults in participating in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.  Please contact Rick Buckingham by May 8 if you can help.

 

PICK UP YOUR SUMMER CAMP BROCHURE!

 

Colorful registration brochures are now available, in the Narthex and Church Office, for summer camping programs at our United Methodist properties at West River and Manidokan.

Elementary, Middle High and Senior High Discovery Camps at West River Center near Churchton, MD begin the week of June 19 with weekly programs through August 12.  In addition, specialty camps will be offered in American Sign Language, Creative Arts, Music, Sports, Fishing, Biking, Kayaking, Basketball, Soccer and Girls' Lacrosse, as well as the traditional Sailing Camps and programs for children who are deaf and blind.  Camp Manidokan, near Harper's Ferry, WV, offers Adventure for 3rd grade through high school; and Sports, Music, Creative Arts, Sign Language, Horseback Riding, Rustic Camping, Backpacking/Canoe, Canoe and Kayak, and River Adventure Camps for youth.

Limited need-based camperships are available from St. Paul's on a first-come basis.  Please see Rick Buckingham by May 15th to request a campership.

 

R R R R R

 

UMYF "FREE" CAR WASH SAT. JUNE 4TH  -  10 AM-2 PM

 

Please support our youth with a donation for our summer Work Camp when we wash your car in the church parking lot!!

 

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL REGISTRATION FORMS NOW AVAILABLE

 

Registration forms for Vacation Bible School are now available in the Church Office and on bulletin boards around the Sunday School classrooms.  VBS is set for June 20-24, 9 a.m.-Noon, with the theme, "World of Harmony:  Creating a Peaceful Planet".  This fun-filled week is open to children from 3 years to 5th grade; and youth in 5th grade are eligible to be "helpers".

Registration will close June 6th, so don't delay!  Pick up a form (or several!), fill it out and return to the Church Office.

 

R R R R R

 

'Tis the season to play!

 

Look for upcoming news about events to share in our church family:

Golf Outing

White Water Rafting

Co-ed Softball Team

Lunchtime B-ball

 

Historical Tidbit Answer:

Peggy Cleveland.  Her career was nursing, and she taught First Aid Courses to church members on Tuesday and Saturday mornings.

 

THERE'S STILL ROOM ON THE ALASKAN CRUISE-TOURS!

 

Rick Buckingham has organized a cruise-tour to Alaska with a choice of two sailing dates:  July 29 or August 12.  Brochures are available in the Narthex.

Twenty-six persons are now registered (6 for July 29; and 20 for August 12).   Rick will participate on the second cruise.   One lady needs a roommate (8/12)!

Using the Holland America Line, the group will sail from Vancouver, British Columbia up the Inside Passage to Seward, with ports of call in Ketchican, Sitka, Juneau, and Haines (near Skagway).  The seven-day cruise will be followed by an optional overland "highlights" tour of Anchorage, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks.  Return flights will be directly from Alaska.

Please let Rick know if you are interested in participating in this recreational adventure with other members of the St. Paul's community.

 

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 April EPISTLE: Adda Clark, Gerry Hobbs, Nelson & Aileen Hunt, Ida DeVierno, Mae Miles, Marilyn Jenkins, Tracey Furman & Marco Palma, Evelyn Schaeffer.