Karin's Comments --

"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)

Christ's birth changed our lives so drastically that even the way we understand world history often is characterized as before the time of Jesus and after. Yet, we have hardly thought through the immense implications of Emmanuel, God here on earth -- this wonderful incarnational gift. The gift of Godself to humanity keeps on giving into eternity. It was God's way of assuring all of creation that the omnipresent God was intent on being just that.

There are times, though, when we wonder where God is. If our focus is on fortune, success, power, and influence, we'll miss His presence. If our focus is on crystals, the stars, tarot cards, or merely ourselves, we'll never find Him.

God is where we are weak, vulnerable, and dependent. God is with those who are hungry, outcast, sinners, broken, lonely. God is with those whose hearts are open to Christ's all-encompassing love, to those who see the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, and bow down to worship Him.

May the Lord find all of us on our knees this Christmas season that we might honor Him with our love and devotion.

Peace,

Jottings from John --

Now that I've been on board here for a couple of months, I have to share how pleased I am with what I see. As churches go these days, St. Paul's is amazing. There's movement with purpose (I don't see any spinning wheels), seeking and searching with positive opportunities to meet each need. The Gospel Message of our Lord Jesus Christ is moving ahead smartly here. I heard one couple at the Sunday morning door remark recently, "This is the church we've been looking for." I enjoy the friendliness, the intergenerational atmosphere, and the genuine feeling of kindness and mutual concern. If I ever had any doubts about coming out of retirement a third time to be here, they were long ago dispelled.

So, really, in this season of thanksgiving I just want to say a heartfelt "Thank You" for accepting me as part of the family! I know how much Ann (Harrison) meant to you, and I would never presume to take her place. But I will certainly try my best to minister to you as effectively as she did while here -- and I'll try to come a-running if and when you call. My special thanks to Karin, Rick, Tom, Carol and all the staff for their patience and help ... but especially to Karin.

And thanks also to those people I still call "Susan" when it ought to be "Mary", and "Jim when it ought to be "George". I'll get it right one of these days.

Kind regards,

Pastor John

U.M. WOMEN ARE INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT - AND BEYOND

Our annual Christmas Luncheon will take place on Saturday, December 11th at 11:30 a.m. in Heavener Hall. Be sure to sign-up to bring either a salad or dessert. RESERVATIONS MUST BE IN BY DECEMBER 5TH. There will be a brief business meeting, followed by a musical program, carol-singing and lunch.

The Circles will also be celebrating this holy season with special programs and projects.

In January, we will begin the New Year with our program emphases including studies on Prayer, Cuba, and Public Education.

Also that month, there will be Officer Training for local unit officers on January 22nd at Grace UMC in Gaithersburg. If you are an officer, it would be good to attend this helpful meeting.

As we celebrate the birth of the Son of God, the Prince of Peace, let us pray that the New Year will bring peace to all of God's creation.

Have a wonderful Christmas - and a Happy New Year!

-Bev Burdin, Vice Pres

PANCAKES AND CHRISTMAS TREES ABOUND!

The U.M. Men will be serving-up another delicious Pancake Breakfast in Heavener Hall on Saturday, December 4th. Please join us for a morning of great food and fellowship. Proceeds will go to St. Paul's Capital Improvement Fund.

Our annual U.M.M. Christmas Tree Sale begins on Thursday, December 2nd in the church parking lot. The usual varieties will be available. Also, members of Scout Troop #439 will be selling pine roping and wreaths. The sale will continue until the trees are all gone, or December 19th -- whichever comes first. By popular demand -- and as a convenience to members of the church -- in addition to the sale hours on Monday thru Saturday, trees will also be available on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. As usual, we need volunteers to help staff the sale. If you can spare a few hours, please sign up in the church office. No experience necessary -- we'll train you!

A new year brings an opportunity of renewed purpose and commitment, both as a group and as individuals within Christ's church. Every U.M. Men's activity brings blessings to our church, world community -- and special blessings of fellowship to those participating. We thank those (men and women) who have worked so hard to make the 2004 activities successful.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Wed., Dec. 1 General Dinner / Meeting

(Christmas music by St. Paul's musicians)

Thur., Dec. 2 thru Sun. Dec. 19 - Tree Sales

Sat., Dec. 4 Pancake Breakfast

Wed., Jan. 5 Executive Committee - Library

Sat., Jan. 8 Pancake Breakfast

Wed., Feb. 2 General Dinner / Meeting

Working with you,

Harold Moyer, President

A (Slight) Revision to Poinsettia Ordering This Year

As announced in the November Epistle, there has been a change in how poinsettias will be ordered this year. Instead of ordering individual plants, members who wish to honor a loved one will be asked to contribute to a general fund for the purchase of poinsettias. The bulletin listing will remain the same as in previous years. The only difference will be that donors will be contributing to the fund rather than buying a specific plant.

Last month, we also stated that we would only order 50 poinsettias; but, after further discussion, we have increased that number to 75.

Poinsettias may be taken home after the 10:15 a.m. service on Sunday, December 26th -- available on a first-come, first-served basis to the fund contributors.

You may contribute to the poinsettia fund on Sundays, Nov. 28, December 5 and Dec. 12 in the Church Office from 8:45-9 a.m. and 9:55-10:15 a.m. (Note that there will be no orders taken after the 10:15 a.m. service). Checks should be made payable to St. Paul's UMC, specifying "poinsettia fund" on the memo line. No orders will be taken after Sunday, December 12.

The system for donating wreaths remains unchanged. There will be 4 wreaths decorating our doors and will cost $20 each. If you would like to give a wreath in honor or memory of a loved one, please note that on the poinsettia form. Wreaths will be in place on the outside doors from the first Sunday in Advent (Nov. 28) through the Christmas season.

-Betsy Sanford

Worship Ministry Team

STAR TREE PROGRAM BEING LAUNCHED

The Justice & Compassion Team is once again sponsoring a Star Tree to provide gifts to disadvantaged children who participate in the Talent, Education, Arts and Mentoring (TEAM) after-school program in Washington, D.C. Please consider helping to make a child's Christmas wish come true, or contributing to their family by purchasing a grocery gift certificate (Safeway or Giant).

The tree display will be in the Octagon on Sundays, November 28 thru December 12. Once you have selected an ornament, please record your name next to the corresponding number on the purchaser log. The wrapped gifts (with the ornament attached to the outside of the package) need to be returned by December 12.

Thanks for your continued generosity that makes this program a success each holiday! For questions, contact Kim Longsworth (301-320-3684) or Dick McMullen (301-942-8986).

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CHILDREN'S ADVENT CRAFT WORKSHOP COMIN' UP!

All children are invited to the Multipurpose Room on Saturday, Dec. 4th, 9-11:30 a.m. for a fun-filled craft workshop for Advent and Christmas.

Participants are asked to bring $.50 for each craft they plan to make -- to cover the cost of basic materials.

UNITED METHODIST STUDENT SUNDAY TO BE OBSERVED

The 10:15 a.m. worship hour on Sunday, December 26th, will be a service led by St. Paul's college students. A special offering envelope will be available that day for support of United Methodist campus ministries and university scholarships.

Also at this service, Chris Higgins will be commissioned for his 2-week Mission of Peace trip to India, sponsored by the Northeastern Jurisdictional Council on Youth Ministries of The United Methodist Church.

Thank you to all of St. Paul's members and groups who have so generously contributed to making possible Chris' participation in this unique experience. Two-thirds of the cost was raised through St. Paul's, and the remaining one-third was given from the Baltimore-Washington Conference using apportionment funds.

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WHO ARE YOU ROOTING FOR?

UMYF members, families and friends are invited to see Jane Bartley, a member of St. Paul's and former UMYF officer and "Spirits" basketball star, lead her Elon University team to victory against the University of Maryland on the College Park campus, Thursday, December 30th. Game time is 7 p.m. Meet in the church parking lot at 5:45 p.m.

Please RSVP to Rick Buckingham (301-933-7933) by Dec. 23, especially if you are planning to go from the church.

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HOLIDAY LIGHTS TOUR OPEN TO ALL GENERATIONS

This month, our Older Adult Ministries will sponsor a Tour of Holiday Lights on Tuesday evening, December 21st, at 7 p.m. Depending on the collective preference, it will either be a "drive-thru" tour, or a walking tour (such as Brookside Gardens). Those interested should meet in the church parking lot, although pick-up service will be available to those who need it. Afterwards, the group will return to St. Paul's to enjoy hot apple cider and a Christmas carol sing-along. Please sign-up in the Church Office of call 301-933-7933. (Be sure to mention whether you prefer a walking or drive-thru tour). All ages are welcome, so bring your family and friends!

Speaking of lights, why not "let your light so shine" through the Joyful Visitor program? A 10-minute visit once or twice a month is all it takes. Visits may involve conversing briefly or at length, listening to music together, or perhaps simply exchanging smiles. Nevertheless, they are intended to provide Christian fellowship and support for those members of our church family who are homebound, hospitalized or simply wanting some company. There is a great need for visitors, so please prayerfully consider making one of your New Year's resolutions that of becoming a "Joyful Visitor". For more information, please call Meg Baker (301-589-1348) or Rev. John Walker (301-933-7933).

Your Older Adult Ministry Team

(Meg Baker, Betty Capps, Deane Hill, Sue Roberts, John Walker, Glen Whipple) wishes you and yours a blessed Advent season and a happy new year!

LIBRARY "STARS" WILL SHINE THIS SEASON

"...wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, 'where is he who has been born king of Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and have come to worship him'".Matt.2:2

During the Advent season, we remember the star that alerted the wise men to the arrival of the infant Jesus. This month we will display our children's books that illustrate the wonder of that long-ago star.

The Tiny Star by Arthur Ginolfi (call #E Gin) gives an important role to a small previously unappreciated star, which falls from the sky to land on the roof of a shabby stable. (Thanks to the Longsworth Family for donating this author-signed copy edition to our library).

A Japanese author, Masahiro Kasuya, has written The Tiniest Christmas Star (call #E Kas), which describes the joy of a tiny star who sings to the baby.

A beautifully illustrated book for our youngest children is The First Night by B. G. Hennessy (call #E Hen). Using simple words, the author describes the story of the birth,

"As the sheep slept, a star moved across the night sky..."

May the brightness of that special star shine on your Christmas.

Debra McCurry, Librarian

FRIENDSHIP CLUB READIES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The Friendship Club's December meeting will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 14th at 11:30 a.m. in Heavener Hall. We will have the usual potluck lunch, but the Club will furnish the meat (ham!). So, bring a salad, vegetable or dessert to round out the meal. The entertainment will be provided by St. Paul's Quartet, bringing us songs of the season.

Walter Miller announced a trip to Ellicott City for sightseeing and lunch at the "Crab Shanty" on Tuesday, Dec. 7th. The cost will be $45 per person. If you are interested, call Walter (301-564-0357).

Our January meeting will boast one of our long-time favorite entertainers - DALE JARRETT! Make your plans early and mark that new calendar for Tuesday, January 11th to spend time with us,

Our November turkey lunch had 101 in attendance for a delicious catered meal served by the kind ladies of St. Paul's. Mr. Plummer, a master of the keyboard, entertained us royally.

Wishing all a Joyous Holiday Season and a Happy New Year! ! !

-Sue Merritt, Reporter

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The Mountain Way HAS CHRISTMAS IDEAS!

Christmas has come to our Shop! Stop by and check out our gift bags, and the ornaments on our tree. Find something you can't find in a large store.

When we are away at other churches on Sundays, come by the Shop and meet our new aide, Susan Thomson, who would love to assist you in your purchases.

Quote:

"People should be more like the nail --its head keeps it from going too far."

Shopkeepers Ken & Evelyn Pinkard

OUR CHURCH TO FEED THE HOMELESS

The date for feeding the homeless people at the Montgomery County Community Based Shelter was changed, from October 2004 to the week of January 23 through 29. Although we have groups scheduled to serve most of the dinner meals, we can always use extra help from the congregation. Anyone interested in providing a dish, or serving a meal at the shelter, can contact Sharon Zeigler (301-942-6243) for further details.

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NEW MEMBER RECEIVED

On Sunday, October 31st, at the Joyful Rising service, Ms. Kimberly L. Mason became the newest member of our church family. Kim lives at 1002 Lanark Way in Silver Spring 20901 (301-681-3787). She has two sons - Andrew and Christopher Rogers, 12 and 10 years old, respectively.

Unfortunately, illness prevented the others, who had intended to join that day, from becoming full members. Plans are being made for a suitable time for them to be received.

Betty Simmons

Membership Secretary

YOUTH / ADULT PRAYER PARTNER MATCHES ARE COMPLETE

We have successfully matched 30 of our youth with adult "prayer partners". Thanks to everyone who joined this program. It's going to be an exciting year!

A few quick prayer ideas . . . the first school marking period is over, and the youth are beginning their second semester of school. The holidays are upon us, bringing both joys and sometimes a little stress; and, don't forget the travel to visit loved ones. Also, the New Year -- may it ring in healthy and happy, with hope and promise.

Specific details regarding your match will be sent to everyone. If you have any questions regarding your match, or wish to join the group, contact Chris Schiponi (301-942-2524); or email her: gamecocks@comcast.net.

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UMYF "SOUPer BOWL" PROJECT SET FOR SUPERBOWL SUNDAY

On Sunday, February 5th, the Senior & Middle High UMYFs will celebrate Superbowl Sunday with a "SOUPer Bowl for the Hungry". Please bring an extra dollar that Sunday to place in the Soup Kettles on your way out of church. All that the youth collect will be donated to Bethesda Help. Let's remember the hungry and homeless in the midst of a cold winter. Thank you in advance!

YOUTH CHOIR PLANS CHURCH-WIDE LUNCHEON

On Sunday, January 16th, the Youth Choir will serve a delicious lunch in Heavener Hall, beginning at 11:30 a.m., and will be served until 1 p.m. This will be a fund-raiser for the Choir's trip to New York City in February.

Please sign-up in the Church Office on Sunday mornings, January 2 and 9, so that we may plan accordingly.

Thanks for your continuing support of our youth ministry programs.

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IS YOUR BASKET PROPERLY PACKED?

In this busy season, we are reminded of the story of the person who had a big pile of stones and only one basket in which to carry them (that could be any one of us!). So, the secret is to put the largest stone in first, as a firm foundation, and then the others will just fit in naturally. That largest stone is Prayer -- put it in your basket the first thing of the day, and all the innumerable other things you must do will just fall into place.

Attending Prayer Lift each week will help establish the habit!

Join us in DuVall Chapel, 10 o'clock on Tuesday mornings.

ALL ARE WELCOME!

-Claire Kordella, Coordinator

BOARD OF TRUSTEES CHAIR TO STEP DOWN

Since I will be going off the Board in January, this is my final report for the Epistle. Let me summarize the Trustees' activities this past year.

We are completing a review of insurance coverage and making some changes to insure that we have complete coverage at the lowest cost.

Several months ago, we learned that the Levine School of Music would be leaving our premises on January 1st instead of later in the spring. All of the grand pianos, and most of the other pianos, belong to Levine -- so they, too, will be leaving us. We have two new grands given to us by members of the church. Thank you very much!! We still need a concert grand for the Sanctuary, and funds for that are part of the God's Miracle Fund drive.

Another VERY important part of that drive is the funds necessary to replace the boiler. Right now, it has a Band-Aid fix, and we don't want that to fail in the middle of a cold spell. We are getting bids now, and hope to move on this very soon!

We are still seeking a replacement tenant for Levine. A committee of the Church Council is working on that.

The outside doors have been ordered for both the upper and lower entrances on Mitchell Street.

It has been a great privilege to serve the Lord as President of the Board of Trustees -- and, sometimes, a bit of a headache! It HAS been great working with my fellow Trustees.

-Glen Whipple, President

HISTORY TRIVIA QUIZ TO UNDERGO CHANGES

Since this issue of the EPISTLE is also for January, it is appropriate to announce that in 2005 the History Committee will present Question Tidbits each month, with the answers provided in the same issue.

Question: Where was the parsonage in 1888?

Answer: A rented house in Kensington (location unknown).

DECEMBER QUESTION:

(Answer any one question)

1) What year did the UMM Pancake Breakfasts start?

2) What year were eggs added to the menu for UMM breakfasts?

3) When did the UMM begin to sell Christmas trees in the parking lot - and why?

Phone 301-949-1055 with the correct answer and win a prize. This phone has an answering unit, so please leave your name, phone number and your answer. The first correct answer wins.

[This contest is open to all members and friends of St. Paul's, age 11 or older, EXCEPT the church staff, History Committee members and their families.

The November question was:

1) Who arranges for the Liturgists each Sunday?

(Ans. Marge Higgins)

2) Who pays for the altar flowers each week?

(Ans. The donor (anyone can to do so)

3) Who represented our church and the

Baltimore-Washington Conference at the

2004 General UM Convention?

(Ans. Mike McCurry)

4) Name one (of 4) women who attended the

UMW 2004 Northeastern Jurisdictional Conf.

(Ans. Mabel Baker, Bev Burdin, Marijane

Ricketts and Becky Scheirer.

The winner was Becky Scheirer, who answered them all!

Emily Robinson, Historian

"Spirits" BASKETBALL LISTS END OF SEASON SCHEDULE

St. Paul's "Spirits" Youth Basketball Team will play Colesville UMC at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 11th at Hughes UMC, 10700 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Members of the congregation are invited to attend, but note that seating is limited.

The remaining schedule is:

Sun., Jan. 9 - 2 p.m. (Meet 1:15) vs

Colesville at Hughes UMC.

Sun., Jan. 30 - 2 p.m. (Meet 1:15) vs

Colesville at Hughes UMC

Sun., Feb. 13 - 2 p.m. (Meet 1:15) vs

Millian Memorial at Hughes UMC

Sun., Feb. 27 - 2 p.m. (Meet 1:15) vs

Millian Memorial at Hughes UMC

Remember to dress warmly, as the Hughes gym is unheated!

LEADERSHIP DAYS TO BE HELD

The Baltimore-Washington Conference will hold LEADERSHIP DAYS on February 5, at Friendly High School, Ft Washington, Maryland. Pre-registration is required! Deadline is January 21. for further information, contact Tom Bartley

MEET OUR LAY LEADERS

(A CONTINUING SERIES)

Ask Jim Gelatt about St. Paul's and he'll tell you: "St. Paul's is a wonderful place. I truly believe we can create the future we want, with God's help. Where else do you find people who are so friendly and so accepting? Where else can you turn off the clock and just enjoy life for what it has to offer?" Jim is the out-going chair of the Staff Parish Relations Committee. "It has been an exciting three years - welcoming a new, gifted senior pastor, saying farewell to Pastor Ann Harrison, bringing on John Walker as Minister of Visitation."

An Upstate New York native, Jim teaches organizational behavior in the University of Maryland University College Graduate School. His leadership skills, including conflict management, communication and team building, were ideal for the position. Jim holds degrees in English literature from three universities and a Ph.D. in social policy from the University of Southern California.

Jim and Cathy, who is a manager with Lockheed Martin, came to St. Paul's when son Charlie and daughter Leslie were in preschool. Now a Duke University graduate, Charlie is a computer engineer at Lockheed Martin and also a gifted singer. Leslie uses her Ithaca College School of Business degree in the marketing department of Choice Hotels.

Jim sings in the Sanctuary Choir, and has participated in the United Methodist Men and various committees over the years. Jim and Cathy have taught Sunday School together - five-year-olds and two-year-olds.

-Jan Aamodt

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FAMILY DAY TRIP TO SKI LIBERTY BEING PLANNED

This event, being sponsored by our Sr. High UMYF, is planned for Saturday, February 12th. If you would like to participate and benefit from our group rate, please contact Rick Buckingham (301-933-7933) or email him at ricklby@yahoo.com by Wed., January 12th. You may need to provide your own transportation.

The Story of Stephen Ministry Part Two

(Continued from last month)

During a conversation with fellow pastors, Kenneth Haugk, a pastor and clinical psychologist, came to realize with new understanding that God didn't intend for pastors to monopolize ministry. Rather, God gave all his people gifts for ministry and one of his roles as pastor was to equip others to use their gifts in ministry.

Haugk returned from this conversation with his friends with a plan. In the coming months he recruited 9 lay people who had the gifts and heart to do caring ministry. He then used his combined backgrounds in theology and psychology to develop a training program in Christian caregiving. By March 1975, the 9 were commissioned as "Stephen Ministers" Their first care receivers included a widower, a young woman with cancer, a truck driver forced to retire early, and an inactive member stumbling with faith issues.

The impact was immediate. People began receiving the focused Christian care they needed.

Fewer people were slipping through the cracks, and Haugk found he had more time to perform his other pastoral duties. The Stephen Ministers were surprised by the spiritual growth they encountered as they saw God working through them to bring love and healing to others.

To be continued.......

-Kate Lewis Brown

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SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR OFFERS NEW OPPORTUNITY

The Worship Team has approved a monthly member-sponsored Sunday Coffee after the 10:15 a.m. service. If you would like to share a special event (such as a birthday, anniversary, promotion, graduation), you can sign-up for the refreshments. The sponsorship includes three (3) cakes, paper products, coffee, lemonade, and an announcement in the Activity Sheet. The cost is $55, and the sponsor must provide two (2) people to help serve the cakes. To reserve a Sunday, call the Church Office (301-933-7933).

ADULT EDUCATION OFFERS SHORT TERM CLASSES

The following short-term classes are being offered over the next 3 months. The Adult Education Team hopes you will find one that is just what you're looking for during the long, cold winter.

Women Speak of God led by Emily Robinson and Bruce Stayman

8 Tuesdays, Jan. 11-Mar. 1

(Make-up days: Mar. 8 & 15 as needed)

7:15-9 p.m. - Room 117

Dr. Amy G. Oden, Professor of the History of Christianity at Wesley Theological Seminary, created this study of Christian writings by women. The women studied include Perpetua, Macrina, Juana Inez de la Cruz, Susanna Wesley, Jarena Lee and Georgia Harkness. Each session includes a video segment, reading assignments, and a participant's manual, similar to Christian Believer or Disciple

Steward: Living as Disciples in Everyday Life

led by Jeri Rhodes

12 Mondays, Jan. 10-Mar. 28, 7:30-9 p.m. -

Music Room

We are called to be stewards in many ways: our responsibility to the environment, to each other and to support the church, both financially and with our time, talents and prayers. The study walks us through the meaning of each of these calls and helps us develop our response. Each session includes a video segment, reading assignments and a participant's manual, similar to Christian Believer or Disciple.

Discovering God's Vision for Your Life: You and Your Spiritual Gifts (Inventory)

led by Kate Lewis Brown

Cost $17 for materials.

Courses offered as follows, pending sufficient registration:

Two Monday classes, Jan. 24 and 31, 7:30 p.m. - Library

Two Wednesday classes, Feb. 16 and 23, 9:30 a.m. - Library

TRUSTEES OFFER END OF YEAR THANKS

It takes many, many volunteers to keep our church facility running and in good functioning condition. Many of our members spend their spare time working on small building fix-it and improvement projects that save the church hundred of dollars a year. Others are inspired to share their talents with the church because they see a need and know they can make a valued contribution.

Two years ago, Alesia Peterson was inspired to share her gardening talents after taking a Disciple class. Alesia put together a professional landscaping plan to reshape the beds around the church. The Trustees presented the plan to the congregation for comment and then it was unanimously approved. Over the past 2 years, Alesia has put in hundreds of hours toiling away to make the plan a reality. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we wish to thank Alesia (and her #1 laborer, husband Steve) for sharing talent, time and gifts with all of us. Alesia is always on the lookout for assistant gardeners - so, if you can spare a few hours, please give her a call.

In December, Marco Palma, our full-time building superintendent will celebrate his 2nd anniversary at St. Paul's. He has become a valued member of our church staff and family. The next time you see Marco, please thank him for all his efforts on our behalf.

-Tracey Furman, Board of Trustees Vice Pres.

HAVE YOU GOTTEN YOUR INFO ON THIS SUMMER'S ALASKAN CRUISE?

Rick Buckingham is organizing a St. Paul's cruise-tour to Alaska, with two sailing dates to choose from: July 29 or August 12. Brochures are available in the Narthex. The group will be using the Holland America Line, sailing from Vancouver, British Columbia up the Inside Passage to Seward, with ports of call in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, and Haines (near Skagway) along the way. The 7-day cruise will be followed by an optional overland "highlights" tour of Anchorage, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks. The flight home will be directly from Alaska.

More than 60 persons have expressed interest; and 15 are already registered (4 for July 29, and 11 for August 12). Rick Buckingham will participate on the second cruise.

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

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Winter Weather Policy at St. Paul's

On Sundays and Saturdays: Please call the Church Office (301-933-7933) for a recording advising of program cancellations.

On weekdays: Generally, if the Montgomery County schools close, our programs are cancelled. However, if in doubt, call the Church Office.

SPRINGING AHEAD INTO MARCH!

It's official! Virginia Tech's United Methodist Campus Ministry, the Wesley Foundation, is planning to visit St. Paul's on March 5th & 6th, as the first stop on their Spring Break Singer's Tour. As many college students head to the beaches, the members of the VT Wesley Foundation use spring break in God's ministry through work projects for low-income families; and sharing their music throughout the Southeast. This has been a 30-year tradition for the group composed of 40 undergraduate and graduate students. Our own Gina Saffioti has been a group member for over 2 years, and is currently the Singers' Co-chair.

More details will be forthcoming, but we will be looking for volunteers to help with a potluck supper, overnight accommodations for two or more students, and a lunch. If you would like to help, contact Linda Ferrara (301-946-5990) or email: lj5352@aol.com.

♫♫♫♫♫

PASTORAL VISITS TO BE MADE TO COLLEGE STUDENTS

Rick Buckingham is hoping to visit on college campuses in New England at the end of April. Please give contact information to Rick for St. Paul's students or military personnel who are located in Easter Massachusetts or nearby areas.

!!!!!!

Pink and Yellow Before Red and Green!

Before your house gets filled up with Christmas cards, wrapping paper, cookies, gifts, decorations and the like...please fill out and return the pink A.S.E.T.T.E, and the yellow Lay Leadership forms. We need your information!

Kate Lewis Brown

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: stpaulsk@erols.com

St. Paul’s EPISTLE&
Kensington, Maryland	Dec.-Jan. 2004/2005	Vol. 48, No. 12

St. Paul’s EPISTLE&

Kensington, Maryland

Dec.-Jan. 2004/2005

Vol. 48, No. 12

LEADERSHIP DAYS TO BE HELD

Kate Lewis Brown