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321 Route 164
Preston, CT 06365
(860)887-4647
E-mail: pccc@snet.net
ALL INFORMATION for the August newsletter is due in the church office by July 20th. You may leave information in the holder located on the wall just inside the kitchen. FROM THE MINISTER…
MEMORABLE MOMENTS…
Our church has many memorable moments during the course of the year. There are moments of great joy – celebrating the wedding of a young person who grew up in the church, the baptism of a child, anniversaries, Confirmation and graduation, to name a few.
At the same time, however, there are also moments of sorrow, disappointment, frustration, and change – the death of a loved one - a hurt caused by someone - striving to reach a goal, but always seeming to fall short of the mark - realizing that the church moving forward is necessary when you’re quite comfortable with the way things have always been.
Moments are just that – MOMENTS. They are brief, short periods of time. Some moments are like shadows that follow us around, reminding us of past times. If the memorable moment is good, we welcome its presence in our lives and fondly recall it through the years. If, on the other hand, it reminds us of a difficult and painful time, the moment can seem ever present, leaving us to wonder… will life ever move forward, in a positive, happy direction again?
God is with us in all the moments of our lives – the good and especially the not-so-good. We read: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep you over. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. FOR I AM THE LORD, YOUR GOD.” (Isaiah 43:2-3a).
Remembering these words, we can face the difficult moments of life, and know with certainty that God will deliver us safely through all of them.
Interestingly, each newsletter you read contains memorable moments in the life of our church family. You’ll read this letter and smile, laugh, feel proud, wonder, question, maybe even shed a tear – but hopefully, as you read, you will draw closer to God and to others in your church family.
This month, I encourage you to respond to someone or something in this newsletter. Let someone know you’re thinking of them, you’re proud of them, you’re congratulating them, etc…
I believe many of our moments are shareable. We would all agree, the positive, pleasant moments are easier to respond to. However, it’s the difficult moments affecting people’s lives that need our encouragement, prayers, and support even more.
Go ahead; write a note to someone today.
See you in church!
Rev. Stan
HOME OR AWAY…
Remember your church this summer. Join us for Sunday worship beginning at 9 A.M. While on vacation, find a church and attend worship. Stay connected to your Faith. Be sure to save the worship folder (I enjoy reading what other churches are doing). Keep your church pledge up-to-date; the expenses of your church never take a vacation! We’re counting on your financial support, and appreciate it very much. Above all, wherever you are… go safely and ENJOY!
DURING THE MONTH OF APRIL & MAY…
WE WELCOMED into the Household of Christian Faith through the Sacrament of Baptism:
4-5 Devin Ann Boots (Adult baptism) Devin and boyfriend, Chris Cardot are in Florida this summer. Devin will receive her second liver transplant. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
WE CONGRATULATED Robert Guerrera and Erica Champlin who were united in marriage at Lake of Isles, North Stonington on April 5th.
ALSO… Kipp Bourque and Brenda Sanko who were united in marriage on May 3rd.
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WE EXPRESSED OUR SYMPATHY to the family of Matthew Schroeder who left us much too early in life. His passing on May 21st, deeply affected family members, the hundreds of friends (High School and College) who attended his service on May 24th. Even the students he taught at Waterford High School were present to pay tribute to the teacher they knew and loved. Never in my years at this church have I ever witnessed such a turnout for a church funeral. It truly was “Standing Room Only.”
We shall miss Matt – his outgoing personality, friendly smile, and the joy he brought to his church. Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents and sisters; Matt & Lois, Heather and Hillary. They are a wonderful family with an incredible faith in God.
Thank you, Matt & Lois for raising such a wonderful son, and for sharing his life with this church.
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TO OUR CHURCH FAMILY…
The outpouring of love and support that all of you have given, and continue to show to our family in light of Matty’s passing has been overwhelming. You not only gave of yourselves to help us organize his memorial service and reception but so many of you were willing to share our pain, to take some of it upon yourselves, which was unbelievably comforting. We don’t know what we would have done without you.
We’re still trying to find our way in the next chapter of our lives, the chapter that is without a son, grandson and brother. We know that this difficult journey will be made much easier due to our faith and your continued love and support, which you all give so effortlessly.
On behalf of the Schroeder and Hopkins families, we wish to thank each and everyone of you.
-- Matt & Lois Schroeder
WE WELCOMED THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS into the life and ministry of our church on Confirmation Sunday: Karissa Bartha, Anita Colby, Zackary Cwynar, Sarah Greiner, Kendall Kobelski, Edward McLaughlin, William McLaughlin, Harrison McNair, Steven Mott, Daniel Park, Grace Park, Chad Potter, Jordyn Schrage, and Brian Werth.
Have you seen the class gift these young people presented to the church on Confirmation day, April 13th? Two beautiful chairs and a table spruce up the mid-level stair tower – a nice addition. We thank the class for this gift.
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NEWS ABOUT AMANDA…
A terrific send-off was held on May 25th for Seminarian Amanda Ladegard. After being with us for nine months, the congregation said their goodbyes and offered best wishes as Amanda prepared for her Ordination (June 8th) to the Christian Ministry.
Amanda unanimously passed her Vicinage Council on June 1st, in her home church, The Westchester Congregational Church, Colchester, CT. With family and clergy present, Amanda presented her Ordination paper and was approved for her BIG day.
A Seminary Chair from Andover Newton Theological School, along with a money gift, was given to Amanda with appreciation from the congregation. The children of the Sunday School presented her with a beautiful stole depicting the faces of children.
A special reception was organized in her honor. Thank you, Joyce Brewster and team for coordinating this wonderful end to a wonderful morning.
We wish Amanda every success as she searches for a church of her own. God has great plans for her, I am sure.
– Rev. Stan
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OUTDOOR FLAGS
The American flag waving proudly on the annex lawn is given by Art & Stella Dawley and family in memory of Cpl. Charles Leighton (USMC) and in honor of all veterans and troops.
The Christian flag is given in loving memory of my mother, Betty Christensen (Chris), by Timothy & Donna Bowles and family.
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PRAYER BEARS DISTRIBUTED
Members of the Jr. Pilgrim Fellowship, along with advisors: Karen Loeffler, Susan Strader, and Amanda Ladegard created 8 bears this spring. The bears have been in church, listening to the services, the hymns, prayers, and sermons, and finally were given to churchgoers to distribute to shut-ins, the sick, or someone who needs a little up-lifting. The Prayer Bears were well received by the congregation, and those on the receiving end appreciated the kind gesture. We need more bears! Are you interested in helping to create a bear? If so, contact the church office and we’ll get you started.
FUNDRAISING RESULTS…
The Chicken Pot Pie Supper held on April 26th, brought in a profit of $1,400. It was a sell-out!
The “Theme Dinner” (a first for the church) was a big hit on May 31st. Tables representing each month of the year were filled with people who enjoyed a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu dinner and basket raffle. The profit: $1,420. Thanks, Lee Ann Fessenden for purchasing and preparing all the food; and the kitchen help – Tony & Betty Bassette, Keith and Debbie Harrison, Carol Onderdonk, Linda Hopkins, Jeannie, Kendall & Allie Kobelski, and Mindy Converse. Thanks to those who served as hosts:
January – Katy Hopkins – Happy New Year!
February – Loida Fessenden – Mardi Gras
March – Michele Gollmer – March Madness
April – Wendy Abrahamson – Easter
May - Barbara Perry – May Flowers
June - Lisa Fessenden - Graduation
July – Mary Lou Jensen & Carol Beckwith – Picnic
August – Sally Exley – Birthday Party for Rebecca
September – Ashley Guiher – Back To School
October – Pat Marino – Halloween
November – Sandy Dudek – Thanksgiving
December – Lillian Fesenden – Christmas
Thanks to all who donated baskets and gift certificates for the raffle, and to the ticket sellers: Kendall Kobelski and my son, Nicholas.
It was a very enjoyable evening. Hopefully, it will return next year. If it does, get your tickets early!
-- Lisa Fessenden, Chairman
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FROM THE ORGANIST & CHOIR DIRECTOR
It’s hard to believe, but summer is almost upon us and the summer choir will once again begin on June 15th. It will continue until the adult choir returns on September 7th. The summer choir is casual and fun. We gather in the meeting room at 8:30 Sunday morning to rehearse a familiar hymn or gospel song. There is no stress, no robes, and no obligation. Come for one week or all twelve. All you have to bring is a desire to sing His praises!
I am also looking for soloists, duets, etc. for the summer. A sign up sheet is posted on Information Center bulletin board.
Finally, thank you to everyone who baked for “Choir Recognition Sunday” (June 8), and made the day so special.
--Joyce
FINANCE COMMITTEE UPDATE…
The 2008 Budget: $199,979
25% = $49,994.75
1st quarter receipts: $48,173.37 (24.1%)
Shortfall: $1,821.38
Is your pledge up-to-date? Not sure? Call Financial Secretary, Mary Ann Coughlin if you have questions (376-0568). We need and appreciate your financial support.
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CONGRATULATIONS to all our 2008 graduates! Best wishes for your future endeavors. Your church is proud of your accomplishments!
2008 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Two scholarships were presented on June 8th, to deserving young people from our church. The Helen M. Benjamin Scholarship Fund awarded Rebecca Exley and Amanda Lee financial gifts for college this fall. We thank everyone who contributed to the 2008 scholarship appeal, and we wish these young people every success!
ATTENTION CRAFTERS
A quilt is being made for the “Scarecrow Festival” in September. Are you interested in making one square for the quilt? You choose the design, using whatever technique you like: appliqué, cross stitch, embroidery, piecing, etc. A sign up sheet with all the details is posted on the Information Center bulletin board. Consider getting involved.
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DID YOU KNOW…
A “Grief Support Group” meets at the church on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month? They meet in room 18 (mid-level) from 10:30 ‘til noon. Anyone is welcome to attend. Call Bev Moulson (886-0775) for more information.
WANTED…
your CDs and DVDs (NO VHS or Cassette tapes) you no longer listen to or view. Rev. Stan is starting early this year to collect these items to be sold at the church bazaar in November. You may leave your donations in the box located in the Information Center. Thank you to those who have already contributed.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
From time to time, volunteers are needed to prepare and deliver a meal to someone in the church family who has lost a loved one, just had a baby, or is home recovering from surgery. If you can aid us in this important outreach program, please sign up on the Information Center bulletin board. Jennifer Gileau will coordinate the meal with the volunteer at the direction of the church office. We thank you in advance for your willingness to help.
TRIPS & TRAVELS…
(SPACE STILL AVAILABLE) NEW FOR FALL 2008… “The Great Smokies and Kentucky,” October 14 – 21st. The 8-day trip includes: 6 breakfasts, 4 dinners, air, hotel, and transfers. Highlights include: Pigeon Forge, Smokey Mountain National Park, Biltmore Estate, Asheville Country Tonight Theatre, Nashville, Grand Ole Opry, Wildhorse Saloon, Churchill Downs, Kentucky Horse Park, and Star Cruises. PRICE: $1,899 for double, $2,399 for single, $1869 for triple. Not included is the Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $140 per person. Brochures can be found in the Information Center. 25 seats are being held for our church.
NEW FOR SPRING 2009… “London & Paris,” April 16 – 23rd. The 8-day trip includes: 6 breakfasts, 4 dinners, air, hotel, and transfers. 30 seats are being held for our church. Highlights include: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, London Theater Performance, Eurostar Train, Seine River Cruise, Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower Dinner, Paradis Latin. PRICE: $2,799 for double, $3,499 for single, $2,769 for triple. Not included is the Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $150 per person. Brochures can be found in the Information Center. These trips are open to the public, and air travel can be arranged from anywhere in the country. Tell your friends and sign up today. You may ask, “Why arrange trips so far in advance?” – to receive 2008 pricing! These two trips WILL cost more after the seats we have reserved are sold. Don’t wait too long!! Contact the church office if you would like a brochure brochure. These trips are now posted on the church’s website: prestoncitycongregational.org.
FROM THE DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EDUCATION...
AT THIS TIME I am moved to write about what’s been uppermost in my mind and heart...two young men. After 17 years, for the first time (May 21st), one of my “kids” has passed from our sight to the place I have talked to them about periodically throughout their Sunday School years. Yes, “heaven” is the goal, but frankly we who are older want to get there first. Matthew Schroeder was just a young boy when I first came here. He was a Sunday School student, then a Confirmation student, and then coming full circle back teaching in the Sunday School. He walked into my heart as a young boy and will never walk out. As impish as young boys can seem to be at 9, this young boy was into his church helping me in the Sunday School whenever I asked him whether it was role playing a disciple in the “Holy Week Walk” or moving a table. Yes, he never did say no and for that I will always be grateful. Maybe he was inclined to please a teacher, but I’m SURE a spark of faith had ignited. Though Matt faced a number of challenges in his young life, when I asked him to come back and teach Sunday School this past year, with no hesitation he said YES. Anytime I walked into his classroom, he had those kids in the palm of his hand. Parents have told me their children were positively influenced by this young man’s teaching. I am sad, but I will always be grateful for this young man passing through my life and look forward to the day when I will be reunited with him in a way that I do not yet fully understand. Revelation 21:1, “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away…” (verse 4) “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” So until that day I’ll keep on believing and trusting.
Stephen Colby, another young man of 18 who came to our Sunday School as a teen and team taught Sunday School here on May 15th was in a very serious accident that threatened to claim his life; thankfully he was spared. The day after Children’s Day, May 19th, I just had to go to Rhode Island Hospital to see for myself. It was “music to my ears” to hear that he had been moved out of ICU after being life starred from Backus! The “sweet” music continued when I asked him what he’d really like to eat and he said a “burger”! Even though I could only find a beef fajita we had a great visit and prayed together thanking God for this “gift” of a second chance at life.
YES, IT IS VERY IMPORTANT that our children are here within a Christian Fellowship where there are people who take the time to teach, to encourage, to care. It is one of the best things we can do for our children. Oftentimes people recognize the value of sports to teach their children team effort and fair play, of other groups for socialization and extra curricular activity, but Sunday School is the leftover. I do realize parents are often put in a tough position with the requirements put on them and their children to “belong”. As always, here, we put no restrictions of any kind…we’re just happy to have your children attend whenever they come…no questions asked…just “GLAD YOU’RE HERE…THERE’S A PLACE FOR YOU”!
THERE are Children’s Messages during worship each Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. until September when Sunday School opens again. I always look forward to the children…
May the SONshine through me,
Sandy Dudek
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CHILDREN’S DAY at Preston Veterans Memorial School was awesome! Leading the students carrying Christian flags were “Perfect Attendance” students Nathaniel Crary, Peter Crary, Brandon Norcross and Saul (Buddy) Meraz. I sure was proud of them and hope for many more in 2008-2009!
BIBLES were presented to our 1st graders and older students who joined us after lst grade. Their names were inscribed on the front cover and on the presentation page were listed our generous donors as well as memorials. Many of you donated one or more Bibles. Two of the children received Bibles through the generosity of the Gilbert & Edna Kinsey Memorial. It was their wishes to touch children’s lives through the written word of God. We are so grateful for all the generous support of the Sunday School. Did you know that Rev. Stan underlines a special verse for each recipient of a Bible. It is their challenge to find it and call Rev. Stan or Mrs. Dudek when that happens. Sometimes it takes years!
MANY OF our 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students presented “Silly Songs” and Bible humor which was a new addition this year. We really want this to be a day of “fun and rejoicing” as well as giving students who have learned their Class Goal an opportunity to present it.
A HIGHLIGHT of the day was the High School Class presentation of their Class Goal …through World Vision they have taken the responsibility (and joy!) of sponsoring a child through. Rhodah Msumba. She has 2 brothers and 3 sisters lives in Malawi with them and their mother who struggles to provide for the family. Rhodah will be 13 on June 15th and is in primary school and likes mathematics. Her picture and further information about her can be found on the Sunday School bulletin board and on the “spare change” donation jar.
THE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS sponsored a bake sale on Mother’s Day with a profit of $171.00 to help them to meet their monthly commitment of $35.00 per month through the summer. In the Fall the class will be keeping the Sunday School informed about news from or about Rhodah. They will be encouraged to bring in offerings when possible to put in “the jar” for Rhodah. I have long felt our children have not had sufficient exposure to “missions” in our Sunday School. Many thanks go to Diane Schrage & Jack Smiley for encouraging and helping them realize their goal.
THOUGH Laurie Waldron was unable to be with us on Children’s Day, we thank her for her careful attention to the needs of the Baby Nursery this past Sunday School year.
A HUGH THANK YOU to Timothy Bowles, Kristi Dudek and Scott Van Alst who made preparations and cooked at the picnic back at the pavilion. The High School Class left Children’s Day part way through to return to the church to help and to clean up.
I AM VERY GRATEFUL to the Board of Religious Education who works with me throughout the year to ensure that we have a well-rounded vital religious education program: Sally Exley, Jack Smiley, Michele Gollmer, Lisa Fessenden, Wendy Abrahamson, and Denise Luft. A Special Thank You to Mary Lou Jensen, Betty & Tony Bassette, and Bea Phillips who helped me so much with Children’s Day preparations.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL is planned for July 14-18th, 9-11:30 A.M Directed by Rev. Stan and Sandy Dudek with Naomi Greiner coordinating music and Wendy Abrahamson coordinating crafts. Children in our church and community who have turned 4 by August 1, 2008, through those currently entering Grade 7 are invited to attend (Exception: those who have attended our Nursery 3 (years old) Sunday School). Cost for the program is $12.00 per child with a family maximum of $30.00. Checks should be made payable to the Preston City Congregational Church. Scholarships are available; speak to Sandy Dudek if one is needed. To volunteer, get a registration form (also available in the Information Center), or with any questions, call the church office (887-4647). Monday, June 9th at 7:00 p.m. will be a preview of the VBS program when teachers will receive materials and volunteers are encouraged to attend.
YOUTH MISSION TRIP…Eleven of our high school students along with their leaders will depart in a 15 passenger van for Schuylkill County, PA July 27th and return August 1st. They will receive their assignments upon their arrival there. Please hold Cheryl & Jerry Giuliano (Leaders) and Zackary Cwynar, Heather Eighme, Sarah Greiner, Eliza Hopkins, Amanda Lee, Dan Park, Grace Park, Chad Potter, Jordyn Schrage and John Waldron in your prayers for safe travel and mission. Your generous support of the Scrip program and pledges to Youth Missions have helped make this all possible. Thank you! Thank you!
FISHERS ISLAND RETREATS…Twenty-one of our young people Grades 5-12 will be attending “The Summer Games ’08 on the Island” during varying times in July. Fifteen of them were awarded partial scholarships through the Lori Lynn and Gary Lee Jensen Memorial Campership Fund; two others received scholarship funds through the generosity of members of the congregation. We’re appreciative. The kids always return excited to return the following year.
NEW AND EXCITING THIS SUMMER…Karen Loeffler, an extremely artistic talented person in our congregation has volunteered to paint Bible story characters on the walls in the lower hallway of the Christian Education wing during this last summer their family will be with us (sad for us!) . Moses receiving the Ten Commandments and David & Goliath are just two of the offerings we will look forward to seeing. She will be engaging Junior High and High School young people to assist her.
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY…June 15th…The Board of Religious Education will present all men who attend worship with a special gift recognizing that all men whether biological fathers or not can be good role models and mentors to children. Did you know that the idea for creating a day for children to honor their fathers began in Spokane, Washington. A woman by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd thought of the idea for Father’s Day while listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909. Having been raised by her father, William Jackson Smart, after her mother died, Sonora wanted her father to know how special he was to her. It was her father that made all the parental sacrifices and was, in the eyes of his daughter, a courageous, selfless, and loving man. Sonora’s father was born in June, so she chose to hold the first Father’s Day celebration in Spokane, Washington on the 19th of June, 1910. In 1926, a National Father’s Day Committee was formed in New York City. Father’s Day was recognized by a Joint Resolution of Congress in 1956. In 1972, President Richard Nixon established a permanent nation observance of Father’s Day to be held on the third Sunday of June. June, so she chose to hold the first Father's Day celebration in Spokane, Washington on the 19th of In 1926, a National Father's Day Committee was formed was recognized by a
CONGRATULATIONS to Danielle Faries who recently was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society at Dr. Helen Baldwin School in Canterbury. Your church family applauds you, Danielle! Keep up the great work.
CONGRATULATIONS to Sunghae Park who works for American Express Corporate Business Travel Services. She recently received a “pacesetter award” for being in the top 1% globally. Your church family rejoices with you in this accomplishment.
THANK YOU to everyone who made a donation to the church yard sale and to Stella Dawley who has spent countless hours sorting through all those “treasures”. Check the next newsletter to check the profit!
THE NEXT CAMERA CLUB meeting is scheduled for June 16th at 7:00 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Bring spring pictures or any other subject. Be creative and do some fun things with your camera. Experiment!
PLAN TO ATTEND… CHICKEN BARBECUE Saturday, June 28, 2008 4:00-7:00 p.m. Fresh-grilled barbecue chicken, potato Salad, coleslaw, rolls, cranberry sauce, beverage, and cake. YOU may order tickets by calling Phyllis Crary (887-8412) or the church office (887-4647). You also may pick them up from Lydia Lavoie following the church service. Adults: $10.00 Children twelve and under: $5.00