I don't know why some people change Churches — what difference does it make which one you stay home from?
.
If you spend too much time working on your weaknesses, all you end up with is a lot of strong weaknesses.- Dan Sullivan, business coach
Playing to your strengths
It's tempting isn't it? It's so much easier to see what's wrong with yourself and your life than to takeadvantage of what's right. The problem is, too much focus on the negative can affect your attitude and opinion of yourself. It's a quick road to burnout. While it's important to pay attention to things you can improve, your best bet for a breakthrough lies in maximizing what you're already good at. The secret is to use those strengths to help boost yourself up where you need the help. What are your major talents? What do you have a special knack for? Set specific goals to improve those talents and don't fret as much about your weak spots. They'll get the extra help they need as you climb higher.
Sin is like quicksand: Your own efforts only make you sink deeper. Only an outside hand can pull you out.-- Author Unknown
Hatred stirs up dissension but love covers all wrongs
Proverbs 10:12
God will not look you over for medals, degrees, or diplomas, but for scars.-- Elbert Hubbard
CHURCH NEWS
April 19th Matt & Caryl Aukerman, missionaries to Albania, shared with us in the morning service, along with their children, Noah, Grace and the baby, Hannah.
April 25th we held the Southern New England Zone mission Rally here in Springfield with the Aukermans, and Lords.
On April 25th we had a movie night showing “Fireproof”.
Congratulations to the Rev. Peter and Sherene Isaac on their marriage May 15th in Brooklyn NY
On May 16th we gathered together for our annual church Conference starting with a meal followed by the business meeting.
Mark Taber spoke at the morning service on May 17th.
Pastor Ray Sherwood from Ellington Wesleyan filled the pulpit on May 31st while Pastor Larry and Leona were away celebrating their 44th wedding anniversary.
May 31st was a night that people brought songs of the heart and praises to God, as the four (Hartford, Ellington, Springfield Hispanic and Springfield Wesleyan) churches gathered together in Ellington. Afterwards we had refreshments and much fellowship and fun.
June 12-13th Women of Faith in Hartford Ct. 9 of our women were in attendance.
Friday June 7 Shaundra Lee was born to Millie Burgos.
Take a minute
WHOSE IS IT ANYWAY?
”All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had.” Acts 4:32 NIV
I've heard it said that the early Christian church practiced communism. But that isn't true… especially not what you and I have seen as communism. First of all, the sharing that they did was voluntary. They shared because they wanted to, not because someone forced them to. Second, sharing was not a prerequisite for joining the church. And third, they shared in order to make sure that no one was in need. This does not mean that they gave up every single thing they owned to a communal pool that was then divided up equally. They used what they had to fill the needs of other believers who were not so fortunate.
In other words, they had a much different viewpoint than many of us have today. They saw all of their possessions as belonging to God. He was only allowing them to use those possessions for a while. If a person views what he has as not really his, it makes it much easier to share it. On the other hand, a large number of the people reading this devotional today live in the Land of Looking Out for Number One… the Land of Keeping Up with the Joneses… the Land of the One with the Most Toys Wins.
While we have a large number of generous, giving people, we also have more than our share of those who think that if they give a bag of groceries and their old, worn-out clothing to the church, they’ve done their part… especially if they threw a few extra dollars in the collection plate for the church’s benevolence program.
No matter which category we fit into, how many of us have ever actually met any of the people who get food from our food pantries? How many of us have ever taken the time to see who is receiving those clothes and how they look in them? How many of us are aware of what is actually being done with our benevolence money? How many of us really care? Especially enough to actually do something about it?
Take a close look at what you own... or rather have in your possession. How much does it mean to you? How much of it are you willing to share with those around you who are truly in need? If you are already giving until it hurts, keep it up! You don't have to give it all away. Good stewardship is important. Besides, if you give everything away, you end up being the one someone else has to help! But if those things in your possession and that money in your bank account are more important to you than making sure that someone else doesn't have to go hungry or have nothing to wear... well, just remember who it all belongs to…
Take a Minute is a daily devotional ministry of Dogwood Ministries, Inc
Wesleyan Women’s Sonshine Club
In April we made favors for the nursing home. Our May meeting was cancelled so we could attend the Springfield Rescue missions graduation.
On June 15th we had a PMS (pizza, movie, sundaes) night.
We enjoyed a relaxing evening of fellowship and fun.
Our next meeting is August 17th
We meet at the church the third Monday evening of each month @ 6:30 P.M.
"Hear, O my people, and I will speak, O Israel, and I will testify against you: I am God, your God. I do not rebuke you for your sacrifices or your burnt offerings, which are ever before me. I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the creatures of the field are mine. If I were hungry I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it. Do I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats? Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me."
Psalm 50:7-15
Lighthouse on the Corner Volume 22 Issue 5 April/May/June .
My comfort in my suffering is this: your promise preserves my life. Psalm 119:50
Hodge, REV. ROBERTA ANN beloved Pastor of the Free Methodist Church on Elmwood Ave., Burlington, VT.passed from this life on Friday, Jan. 30, 2009, following a hospitalization in Fletcher Allen Health Care. She was born in Springfield, Mass., on March 25, 1949, the daughter of Howard and Elizabeth (Cochrane) Hodge. In 1967, she graduated from the Technical High School in Springfield and continued her education at Western Mass. School of Practical Nursing, receiving her LPN license in 1969. In 1994, she received her certificate in Clinical Pastoral Education. During her time in the Springfield area, she worked at the WessonWomen's Hospital and Bay State Medical Center. She was highly involved with the Wesleyan Church. Moving to Burlington 10 years ago, she worked in several nursing facilities, the last being Pillsbury Manor in South Burlington. She was ordained in the Wesleyan Church in 2002, and again in the Free Methodist Church in 2006. She becamePastor of the Free Methodist Church in 2001 and ministered to all in the Old North End of Burlington. In the past seven years, she was a Pastoral volunteer and night chaplain at Fletcher Allen Health Care. Roberta will always be remembered for her sense of humor, her willingness to help all in need with genuine compassion and her smiling face. Her love of Jesus was apparent to all who met her. She leaves two sisters, Cynthia Fielding of Connecticut and Eleanor Bellerose of New Hampshire; and two nieces and four nephews. She also leaves a long and true friend, Nancy Anderson of Minnesota. At her request, there will be no funeral, but a celebration of her life was held in the Free Methodist Church at 75 Elmwood Ave., on Saturday, March 21, 2009, at 1 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Free Methodist Church in care of Shirley Bragg, 3 Cathedral Sq., Apt. 7G, Burlington, VT 05401. Arranged by Elmwood-Meunier.Robbie was an active member of the Springfield Wesleyan church until 1998 when she went to Vermont to help plant a Church.
She will be greatly missed.
Mike Hayford informed us that his mother, Genevieve Hayford, passed away Friday March 6th.
The family is planning a celebration of life service at a later date.
Gen was a vibrant member of the Springfield Wesleyan Church until 1992 when she moved to Rochester NY.
Lois (nee Hayford) Eckerd Pepper passed away November 3rd 2008
Respect
An ancient piece of wisdom: Respect and obey the Lord! This is the beginning of knowledge. Only a fool rejects wisdom and good advice . Proverbs 1:7
SINGSPIRATION
March 29th, was a night that 76 people brought songs of the heart and praises to God, as the four (Hartford, Ellington, Springfield Hispanic and Springfield Wesleyan) churches gathered together, Afterwards we had refreshments and much fellowship and fun.
Church News
February 14th was the annual Snowflake Dinner with 26 in attendance.
Pastor & Leona went to Georgia for Karen’s graduation on February 25th.
Gary Coombs presented the morning message on February 22.
March 19th the choir started practices.
The choir will be presenting an Easter cantata entitled “ The Old Rugged Cross Made the Difference” directed by David Marrett on Sunday, April 12th at 11:00AM.
New Entry way doors are being installed.
Attitude
The apostle Paul wrote to some followers of Jesus: Do everything without grumbling or arguing. ... Try to shine as lights among the people of this world. Philippians 2:14-15
Don't Let Them Discourage You Whither shall we go up? Our brethren have discouraged our heart, saying, The people is greater and taller than we; the cities are great and walled up to heaven; and moreover we have seen the sons of the Anakims there. Deuteronomy 1:28 David Ring was born with cerebral palsy and was orphaned at an early age. Years later, after he gave his life to Christ, he felt the call to preach. People tried to discourage him, saying his slurred speech would never allow him to preach. David ignored them and went on to become a nationally known preacher who speaks to over 100,000 people a year. When speaking about all the obstacles he overcame, David challenges his audience, "I have cerebral palsy. What's your problem?" My father was also disabled. He spoke all over the country at conferences and hospitals. He once said, "Nature disables us, but we allow people to handicap us." Often we let people discourage us. This is what happened to the Israelites. God wanted them to enter the Promised Land, but they listened to a few men who said it couldn't be done. Even though God would give them the power to defeat their enemies, the Israelites gave in to discouragement. Because of their lack of faith, they ended up wandering in the wilderness for forty years. Can you imagine how different the world today would be if more people had given in to discouragement? "Simon Peter, stop that preaching! You're just a fisherman." "Helen Keller, you're blind and deaf. You have no business writing." "Abraham Lincoln, you've lost more political races than you've won. Quit trying to become president." "Orville and Wilbur, that thing will never fly. Just give up." When God has clearly shown you the path you should travel, don't let anyone discourage you. Keep working for Jesus, no matter what others may say. He can give you the strength to accomplish any God-given purpose. When others say, "You can't," tell them, "In Christ, I can." (If this devotional has blessed you, please pass it on.) From a fellow traveler just passing through, Jason Mitchener http://www.JasonMitchener.com
Attitudes are contagious. Is yours worth catching? - Anonymous
FW Friends is for those in Kindergarten through 6th grade. Friends gather at the opening celebration for a time of music and participation in a Bible story skit. They then gather in small groups with their circle leader for reflecting on God’s word as they write in their journals. Then it’s off to the Games, The Surprise Station, The Projects with a Purpose Discovery Center, or the Snack Café. Then they rejoin everyone for the closing celebration.
We meet on Wednesday nights from 6:30 -7:30PM.
Ninety-nine Christians in every hundred are merely playing at Bible study; and therefore ninety-nine Christians in every hundred are merely weaklings when they might be giants.
R. A. Torrey
The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out .
Proverbs 10:9, NIV
A Christian’s life is the canvas on which others can see Jesus.
Life is not the way it's supposed to be. It's the way it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference." – Virginia Satir
Wesleyan Women’s Sonshine Club
The ladies of the Wesleyan Women’s Sonshine Club had a luncheon with Denise Ridley on Sat. March 28th of Waters Edge Ministries. She had a timely message for us and we had a great time renewing old friendships and making new friends.
We meet at the church the third Monday evening of each month @ 6:30 P.M.
What the caterpillar calls the end of the world the master calls a butterfly." – Richard Bach
To read without reflecting is like eating without digesting. - Edmund Burke
Save the date:
Vacation Bible School
July 27th-31st
SpringfieldWesleyanChurch
Volume 22 Issue 4 Jan/Feb/Mar 2009
.
Prayer Requests
Our missionaries: Mark & Wes Taber and families, the Picketts, The Aukermans, and The Fords.
The Church Plants around the World.
Direction for our Youth group and leader, FW Friends and Leaders.
Our Sunday School.
Pastor Larry and Leona
Our shut ins: Virginia Giannini, Frank Bacon, Carole Hilts, Mary Newcomb
Special needs for Linda Bates, Tom Theriaque, Rod & Bette Murdock, Jeannette Smith, Tiffany Smith, Ralph Hooper, Irving & Mary Newcomb, Carole Burgos, Wesley Nelsson, Joe & Cindy Bednarski, Lee Herring.
The Hispanic Work with Pastor William Del Rosario.
For those that are in the military
For our country and her leaders.
ContinueChurch growth and Commitment
Cultivate thankfulness. ... Let every detail in your lives -- words, actions, whatever -- be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way ( Colossians 3:16-17 MSG ).
And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So if you judge people, you have no time to love them. ~ Mother Teresa
SINGSPIRATION
March 29th at the HartfordWesleyanChurch. If you would like to sing, read a poem or anything else see Pastor Larry or Laurie .
Let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature . Romans 13:11-14
Church News
On October 20-21 Pastor and Leona attended the Ministerial Retreat @ SchroonLakeNY.
October 26th we honored Pastor Larry with a dinner at 6:00pm with 64 in attendance.
November 16th we gathered after the morning service for a light lunch and to say our farewells to Tom and Janet Theriaque. They have moved to TN., and we will certainly miss them.
November 23 we celebrated our Harvest Home Dinner and Friend Day. There were 122 in Church to listen to Dr Paul James, our new District Superintendent.
November 30thSingspiration here at Springfield Wesleyan.A great time was had by all. A poem that Virginia Giannini submitted was performed.
When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there. And may no act of mine cause shame Nor bring reproach upon His name. —Anon.
Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking athimself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it- -he will be blessed in what he does. James 1:23-25, NIV
A church with one heart and one mind will make for a won world.
True love dares to confront.
Fellowship with other Christians Strengthens us when we are weak, Reprimands when we are sinning, Helps us when God’s will we seek. Sper
FW Friends FW Friends is for those in Kindergarten through 6th grade. Friends gather at the opening celebration for a time of music and participation in a Bible story skit. They then gather in small groups with their circle leader for reflecting on God’s word as they write in their journals. Then it’s off to the Games, The Surprise Station, The Projects with a PurposeDiscoveryCenter, or the Snack Café. Then they rejoin everyone for the closing celebration.
We meet on Wednesday nights from 6:30 -7:30PM.
No God, no peace. Know God, know peace.-- Author Unknown
God’s grace IS sufficient for us.
Wesleyan Women’s Sonshine Club We meet at the church the third Monday evening of each month @ 6:30 P.M. Since Christmas is a time for sharing, please join us and bring a food(Ex: a special bread or cookie) that is a tradition in your family. Also, we will be making a craft to share at a local nursing home. Our January meeting will be our election of officers. Please be in prayefor where God will have you serve. In March we will be having a special guest speaker.
Christ alone can bring lasting peace - peace with God – peace among men and nations - and peace within our hearts.-- Billy Graham
A single grateful thought raised to heaven is the most perfect prayer. Gotthold Ephraim Lessing In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never beween you and them anyway . Mother Teresa
DO IT ANYWAY People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered.Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway. If you are honest and sincere, people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway. What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway. If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway. The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give yourbest anyway. One filled with joy preaches without preaching. -Mother Teresa The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved - loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves -- Victor Hugo Romans 13:12-14 New International Version (NIV) 12
The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Paul gives us the key to overcoming sin in this verse, "do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature". Instead of thinking about what you can do for yourself think about what you can do for God. The more you think about what you can do to please God the easier your life will get. The more you take care of God's business, the more you will find God taking care of your business. Give God room to work in your life. Get busy taking care of God's business.
Speak the Word: Father, what can I do for you today? Show me how you would like to me to live. What you would like me to say? What you would like me to do? Just let me know and I will get busy doing it. Every time I start to think “I can handle this” is when I end up realizing how weak I truly am. Just when I decide “I” am really doing something for God I stumble, trip, collapse and fall. Then in the midst of my humility and embarrassment, I humbly and with shame ask for God to forgive me and please take back over. I tell Him I am sorry and I should have known better, that all I really want is to glorify Him and show my love that all may see.And He picks me up, tells me all is forgiven, assures me He still loves me and always will. When I am weak He is strong. When I am lost He finds me. When I acknowledge Him He is glorified. I think that is my main purpose. To glorify Him. He alone is worthy. Glorify God today. Let the world know you as you are, not as you think you should be, because sooner or later, if you are posing, you will forget the pose and then where are you? ~ Fanny Brice
May all I am and do and say Give glory to my Lord alway,
Lighthouse on the Corner Volume 22 Issue 3 October/November/December 2008
If you are too busy to pray then you are too busy.
W. E. Sangster
Prayer Requests
Our missionaries:Mark & Wes Taber and families, the Picketts,
The Aukermans, and The Fords.
The Church Plants around the World.
Direction for our Youth group and leader, FW Friends and Leaders.
Our Sunday School.
Pastor Larry and Leona
Our shut ins: Virginia Giannini, Frank Bacon, Carole Hilts, Mary Newcomb
Special needs for Linda Bates, Tom Theriaque, Rod & Bette Murdock, Jeannette Smith,
Tiffany Smith, Ralph Hooper, Irving & Mary Newcomb, Carole Burgos, Wesley Nelsson,
Joe & CindyBednarski, Lee Herring.
The Hispanic Work with Pastor William Del Rosario.
For those that are in the military
For our country and her leaders.
Be in much prayer for our City and our State in the upcoming elections
Continue Church growth and Commitment
When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there.
CHURCH NEWS
VBS was held Aug. 4 -8 We want to thank God and each of you who gave of your time and talents to make this year’s VBS a great one.It was truly a success as 2 children accepted Jesus as Savior.
Sept 1 was promotion Sunday and new class arrangements were announced
Sept 5th was the District Conference in Glen’s Falls, NY. At the conference Rev. Paul James was elected as our new District Superintendent.
On September 14th Les & Linda Green were in Concert for our 11Am service.
FW Friends
FW Friends is for those in Kindergarten through 6th grade.Friends gather
at the opening celebration for a time of music and participation in a Bible
story skit.
They then gather in small groups with their circle leader
for reflecting on God’s word as they write in their journals.Then it’s off to
the Games, The Surprise Station, The Projects with a Purpose
DiscoveryCenter, or the Snack Café.Then they rejoin everyone for
the closing celebration.
We meet on Wednesday nights from 6:30 -7:30PM.
SINGSPIRATION
November 30th Here at the SpringfieldWesleyanChurch.
If you would like to sing, read a poem or anything else
see Pastor.
Wesleyan Women’s Sonshine Club
We meet at the church the third Monday evening of each
month at 6:30 P.M. In July we made greeting cards and sent them out to those who were ill,
in the hospital, or shut in. In August we had a planning meeting for a luncheon & tea.The tea was
cancelled due to the illness of our speaker’s father. Just a reminder we will be collecting for Operation Christmas Shoebox in Nov.
Root Rot, by Mike Barres
I am not really good with plants. I can't even
recognize the difference between plants and weeds very well. Many times, I have "weed-
whacked" down perfectly good plants, while leaving weeds that I thought were real plants,
standing. However, I have heard about a problem that afflicts some potted plants.
It's called "root rot." The roots get rotten,
the plant gets sick, and often the plant
dies. Sometimes it's from watering the
potted plant too much, which causes the
excess water to set up "water mold" and
ultimately root rot.
I think we have root rot in our country. The
roots of our faith are being watered down
and the church is sick. A new study by
the "Pew Forum on Religious and Public Life"
illustrates how the core lifestyles of many
Christians are eroding.
Tolerance and love are great; however,
these cannot be purchased at the expense
of truth and character. We must be
grounded and rooted in God's Word
and seek after both His character and
compassion. There are a lot of philosophies
and opinions floating around about
spiritual things. The Bible, however,
must be the anchor that holds us in
this stormy sea. My opinions about
sexuality, abortion, and morality are
not really important. What really matters is what the One who made
us all says about these things in His
Word. This is true even if our values
become unpopular in contemporary
culture. God's truth is still the truth.
The same is true of spiritual truth.
Have you ever had a friend or loved
one tell you about someone selling
them something that sounded too
good to be true? That has happened to me several times. I have to say, "I hate
to tell you this, but what they told you
is not true." If we really love someone,
we will tell them the truth if someone
is going to cheat them out of what
is theirs. The same is true about spiritual
truth. We need to help them see God's truth from the Word, even if they have been
told something else.
In the very first psalm in the Bible, the
psalmist reminds us of this great truth:
Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the
rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.
The ungodly are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand
in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish (Psalm 1:1-6 NKJV).
Let's nourish the roots of our faith, and not over water them with what will lead to root rot. (c) 2008 Mike Barres <mbarres@dnet.net>.
The Power of Prayer..
On a Saturday night several weeks ago, this pastor was
working late, and decided to call his wife before he left for home. It was about 10:00 PM, but his wife didn't answer the phone. The pastor let the phone ring many times. He thought it was odd that she didn't answer, but decided to wrap up a few things and try again in a few minutes. When he tried again she answered right away. He asked her why she hadn't answered before, and she said that it hadn't rung at their house. They brushed it off as a fluke and went on their merry ways. The following Monday, the pastor received a call at the church office, which was the phone that he'd used that Saturday night. The man that he spoke with wanted to know why he'd called on Saturday night. The pastor couldn't figure out what the man was talking about.. Then the man said, "It rang and rang, but I didn't answer." The pastor remembered the mishap and apologized for disturbing him, explaining that he'd intended to call his wife. The man said, "That's, OK. Let me tell you my story. You see, I was planning to commit suicide on Saturday night, but before I did, I prayed, 'God if you're there, and you don't want me to do this, give me a sign now.' At that point my phone started to ring. I looked at the caller ID, and it said, 'Almighty God'. I was afraid to answer!" The reason why it showed on the man's caller ID that the call came from "Almighty God" is because the church that the pastor attends is called Almighty God Tabernacle!
Anonymous
Special Events
Oct 4 – 7:30 AM Men’s Breakfast
Oct 9 – 7:00 PM Crime Watch
Oct 20 Bible study at Rescue Mission
Oct 20 -6:30PM WWSonshine Club
Oct 26 – 1:30PM Service at Hampden House
Nov 1 – 7:30 AM Men’s breakfast spouses included.
Nov 13 – 7PM Crime Watch
Nov. 16– After service going away for the Theriaque’s.
Nov 17 – 6:30pm WWSonshine Club
Nov 17 Bible Study at Rescue Mission
Nov 23 - Harvest Home Dinner with Rev. Paul James, District Superintendent.
Nov 23 – 1:30PM Service at Hampden House
Nov 30 – Singspiration
Dec 6 - 7:30am Men’s Group
Dec 11 - 7pm Crime Watch
Dec 15 Bible Study at Rescue Mission
Dec 15 6:30pm WWSonshine Club
Dec 21 Christmas Family Dinner
Dec 28 1:30pm Service at Hampden House
See the weekly bulletin for any additions and/or changes!
Volume 22 Issue 2 July/August/September 2008
W. E. Sangster If you are too busy to pray then you are too busy.
CHURCH NEWS
On April 18th we attended a Missions Conference at the EllingtonWesleyanChurch with Alan & Aimee Williams preparing to go to the CzechRepublic, and Butch & Tricia Alexander going to Haiti. Carl & Maya Gilles were also represented and will be going to Haiti, but were not in attendance due to the birth of their first baby.
May 1st was the National Day of Prayer. We joined others on the steps of City Hall in Springfield for prayer for our nation, city, and leaders.
May 10th our annual local church conference was held after a dinner attended by 38 people.
May 17th. We attended in Hartford a “Celebration of Life “ in memory of Lynn A. Taitt – Isaac, with a 50 voice choir from Toronto performing.
On May 18th installation of officers was held for 2008-2009, and new members were received into the fellowship.
We cancelled WWSC Ladies night due to Leona’s daughter’s upcoming wedding.
May 23rd Pastor walked his daughter down the isle, gave her away to Ryan O’Donnell, and performed the rest of the marriage ceremony.
May 25th In honor of Memorial Day, we had a table set up in the foyer with pictures of all those who have served or had relatives who served in the Armed Forces.
June 8th We celebrated Children’s Day. The children recited A – Z Bible verses they had memorized in Children’s Church, and shared Hebrews 12: 1 & 2 with motions. They also presented a skit and a song, “We’re Saved”, from FW Friends.
June 26-29 Pastor and Leona went to the Hadley/Luzerne, NY for the district’s first sponsored Inspiration Weekend. The guest speaker was Dwight Robertson of “Kingdom Building Ministries” along with a 50 voice Senior High School chorale “Exalt!” from Bethany Bible College, Sussex, New Brunswick.
June 29 John Cheman, (Pastor Larry & Leona’s son-in-law) was in charge of the morning service.
June 29th We went to Hartford Wesleyan for another tremendous Singspiration.
On July 6th, following the morning service, we gathered at Pastor Larry & Leona’s house for a picnic. A great time was had by all from good food and fellowship to volleyball to water balloons!
The minute you settle for less than you deserve, you get even less than you settle for.
Things You Never Hear in Church
Hey! It's my turn to sit in the front pew.
I was so enthralled; I never noticed your sermon went 25 minutes over time.
Personally I find witnessing much more enjoyable than golf. I've decided to give our church the $500 a month I used to send to TV evangelists.
I volunteer to be the permanent teacher for the Junior High Sunday School class.
Forget the denominational minimum salary; let's pay our pastor so he can live like we do.
I love it when we sing hymns I've never heard before!
Since we're all here, let's start the service early.
Pastor, we'd like to send you to this Bible seminar in the Bahamas.
Nothing inspires me and strengthens my commitment like our annual stewardship campaign!
The Tongue Can Be Your Worst Enemy!
Your words, your dreams, and your thoughts have power to create conditions in your life.
What you speak about, you can bring about.
If you keep saying you can’t stand your job, you might lose your job.
If you keep saying you can’t stand your body, your body can become sick.
If you keep saying you can’t stand your car, your car could be stolen or just stop operating.
If you keep saying you’re broke, guess what? You’ll always be broke.
If you keep saying you can’t trust a man or trust a woman, you will always find someone in your life to hurt and betray you.
If you keep saying you can’t find a job, you will remain unemployed.
If you keep saying you can’t find someone to love you or believe in you, jour very thought will attract more experiences to confirm your beliefs.
If you keep talking about a divorce or break up in a relationship, then you might end up with it.
Turn your thoughts and conversations around to be more positive and power packed with faith, hope, love and action.
Something To Ponder: If your religion doesn't take you to church it won't take you to heaven.
Watch your Thoughts, they become words.
Watch your Words, they become actions.
Watch your Actions, they become habits.
Watch your Habits, they become character.
Watch your Character, for it becomes your Destiny .
In the search for Me, I discovered Truth.
In the search for Truth, I discovered Love.
In the search for Love, I discovered GOD.
And in God, I have found Everything.
Watch how your circumstances and situations begin to change when you change the way you speak.
“Life is like melted butter… once things cool down, it can be reshaped!”
Lighthouse on the Corner
Volume 21 Issue 4
April/May/June /
Prayer Requests
CHURCH NEWS
Dr Lindsay gave the message on the 20th with 79 in attendance followed by our first dinner of the year with 74 in attendance.
On February 2 Wives joined the men for the WM Breakfast with 25 in attendance.
February 9th was our annual “Snowflake Dinner” for adults with 28 there.
Saturday February 16th was the first “Making Marriage Work” Seminar. It will pick up again when Pastor is back to work.
On March 8th 10 men went to the Iron Sharpens Iron Seminar.
Pastor Larry had knee replacement surgery on March 11. He is recovering nicely.
Mr Ron Willoughby, Dir of the Springfield Rescue Mission spoke on March 16th. He brought three men from the mission to give their testimonies.
During February and March there have been many choir rehearsals getting prepared for our Easter Cantata. Thank you Laurie.
A Matter of attitude
When you come to church on Sunday mornings, why do you come? Is it to see what so & so is wearing? Or what the latest gossip is? Is it because you want to come or is someone insisting that you do.
We come together on Sunday mornings to fellowship with the Lord. There are praises received and prayer requests given. We receive strength and whatever it is we need to get through another week. To be prepared for the 2nd coming of Our Lord.
Some walk out the door and it is as if they hadn’t heard a word or received a single thing. Those that come in contact with them would never know they had just been to church. Whether it be their speech, their actions, or the way they treat those around them. Do we want to be one of those?
Then there are others who show in many ways the love of Jesus. I think this is what Jesus meant when he asked us to go out into the world. (Mathew 28:10) The greatest commandment is to treat others like we would like to be treated.
Which one are you? Pray about it.
“When you’re Down to nothing, God is up to something.”
For the winter months we will be meeting at the church the third Monday evening of each month.
On April 21st we will be meeting at 6:30 P.M.
In January we had light refreshments and looked into things we can do for missionaries and others.
In February we put together 4 parcels for our college students. We also worked on pill bottles to be sent off to missions.
In March we started working on memory verses and rolled bandages.
Lighthouse on the Corner
Volume 21 Issue 3 Jan/Feb/Mar 2008
January/February/March
Church News
Winding down October on the 28th we had a potluck dinner followed by Wes Taber from American Messianic Fellowship sharing.
In November we sent out 30 Christmas Shoe Boxes to Samaritans Purse, Operation Christmas Child.
Harvest Home Dinner was held on November 18th with 93 in attendance
For the first time in several years we had to cancel several services in December due to bad weather including all the services on the 16th.
On December 23rd we had our Christmas Sunday Celebration with the whole congregation participating.
December 30th was our Christmas Dinner sponsored by Pastor William and his congregation with 71 in attendance.
That evening we traveled to the Ellington Wesleyan Church for Singspiration and fellowship.
December 31st we had a communion service followed by fellowship.
FW Friends
FW Friends is for those in Kindergarten through 6th grade.Friends gather at the opening celebration for a time of music and participation in a Bible story skit.They then gather in small groups with their circle leader for reflecting on God’s word as they write in their journals.Then it’s off to the Games, The Surprise Station, The Projects with a Purpose Discovery Center, or the Snack Café.Then they rejoin everyone for the closing celebration.
We meet on Wednesday nights from 6:30 -7:30PM.
People are funny: they want the front of the bus, the middle of the road, and the back of the church.
Newsletter Announcement
As of January 2008 we will be sending out the newsletter quarterly.If at all possible, we are re-questing that the newsletter be sent by e-mail attachment or to be viewed on the web site, rather than sent by mail. As postage and the cost of paper increases, we want to be good stewards of God's money.
If you “DO NOT” wish to receive the newsletter, please let us know.
Thank you so much.
Springfield Wesleyan
Wesleyan Women’s Sonshine Club
For the winter months we will be meeting at the church the third Monday evening of each month.
On Jan. 21st we will be meeting at 6:30 P.M. for a light supper and a time of food, fun, and fellowship.Please come and bring a friend.
Sunday School News
Sunday School starts each week at 9:45am with an opening in the Sanctuary.
For all those adults who haven’t attended lately this is not your old time lectures! Come and find out for yourself.
We have classes for all ages.
Volume 21 Issue 2
September through December 2007
When the weather is bad….
Whether it’s Sunday morning or evening, Wednesday or Thursday evening events:
Tune to Channel 22 WWLP
News 40 WGGB-TV or
CBS-3 WSHM, WSFB (CT)
For all your cancellation information
Or log onto WWGB.com or WWLP.com and go to cancellations
ABC40 is giving us a new way of being notified when there are severe weather closings or delays. You can be notified by text or e-mail.
Log on to WGGB.com and sign up today for e-alerts.
.
Prayer Requests
Our missionaries: Mark Taber and family
The Church Plants around the World.
Direction for our Youth group and leaders, FW Friends and Leaders.
Our Sunday School.
Pastor Larry and Leona
Our shut ins: Virginia Giannini, Frank & Carol Bacon, Carole Hilts,
Special needs for Tom Theriaque, Rod Murdock, Jeannette Smith, Ralph Hooper, Irving & Mary
Newcomb, Carole Burgos, Margaret MacDonald, Wesley Nelsson, Joe & Cindy Bednarski, Lee Herring.
The Hispanic Work with Pastor William Del Rosario.
For those of our church family that are in the military.
For our country, military and its leaders. Be in much prayer for our State.
Continued Church growth and Commitment
Went to be with the Lord.
Ross Thurber on October 5th
Ross D. Thurber 1955-2007 SPRINGFIELD - Ross Dale Thurber, 52, of Springfield, passed away Friday Oct. 5th at MercyMedicalCenter surrounded by his loving family, after a long illness. Born in Springfield to the late Dale Thurber and Patricia (Weyant) Driscoll. He is survived by his wife of almost 33 years, Elizabeth (Hartman) Thurber of Springfield; his son, Adam Thurber and his wife Coryn of Wilbraham; his step-mother, Alice Thurber of NY; his brothers, Thomas, Michael, Dale and John Thurber and Glenn Driscoll; his sisters, Theresa Houghton and Dawn Cota; his step-sister, Bette Ann Westcott; two grandchildren, Victoria and Savannah Thurber and several nieces and nephews. He will also be sadly missed by his brothers and sisters-in-law and many beloved friends. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Daniel Thurber and brother-in-law, Ronald Hartman. Donations may be made in Ross's memory to the SpringfieldWesleyanChurch, .
Congratulations:
Bill & Tracey Royland on the birth of their daughter Rozalynn on September 10, 2007
Millie Burgos on the birth of her daughter J-Brianna on September 17, 2007
Amy Lavigne and Juan Estrada on the birth of their twins on October 13th. Alexandriah 5 pounds 8 ounces and Anthony Juan (AJ) 3 pounds 8 ounces. They joined older siblings Shawn Adams, Savannah Smith and Angelina Estrada.
CHURCH NEWS
It has been a very hectic summer and fall, with many hospital visits and much else going on.
July 1st many of us went down to Ellington Wesleyan for Pastor Norm Mesel’s going away picnic.
On July 7th Jesus Fest was held in
Tolland Ct.
July 15th was our annual Sunday School Picnic. Again this year we were at Jerry and Laurie Thivierge’s. Thank you both for having us again! The rain held off until we were going home. Praise the Lord!
July 27 -28 Women of Faith, in Boston
Our Zone Singspiration resumed here on July 29th. We were all blessed by the music. Also we were able to meet Ray and Brenda Sherwood the new pastor for Ellington Wesleyan and their son Chris.
The Davis Family, Missionaries to the Netherlands, were here on August 5th. Previously they were at Suriname. That was where Pastor, Leona, Linda & Phil Bates did a short term ministry. Following the service we had a potluck dinner.
August 7th was the Neighborhood “National Night Out” for our area. Face painting, balloons, fire trucks were just some of the activities. And of course food!
We also promoted our VBS and pre-registered families.
The week of VBS was unbelievablely great!
August 26th found us enjoying “Robin Mark” concert at Tolland H.S,
Tolland Ct.
Sept 23rd “Friend Day” With “MIME” Dan Gossette. 89 in Attendance.
Sept 28-29th “Revolve” with 11Girls & ladies attending.
In September the church bought a new copier. It will save much time and effort!
On October 12th the city put in new sidewalks around the church – Praise the Lord!
October 20th was Teachers training in Hudson, Ma.
October 22-23 Pastor & Leona were away at Ministerial @ Schroon Lake, NY
Wesleyan Woman’s Sonshine Club
Approximately 12 ladies of the church have been gathering at Pastor’s house (or Leona’s house) in
Stafford Springs CT on the third Monday of each month.
We would love to have you join us. Anyone needing a ride can meet at the church by 6:30pm or contact Pastor at 413-478-9708
VACATIONBIBLE SCHOOL
August 13-17
Galilee By-the-Sea
Catch Jesus in Action!
Galilee By-the-Sea was a great success. A total of 102 babies, children, teens and adults came out for the week.
On Friday night we had a guest visitor – Jesus played again by Drew Crandall of the EllingtonWesleyanChurch, with 16 coming to the Lord.
Afterwards we went inside to make ice cream sundaes.
The weather cooperated again this year. Not too hot, and no rain during VBS hours.
T he deadline for the January - March Newsletter is Monday, December 31st. Please have all articles and dates in before that time.
Remember we are always looking for contributions from everyone!
Is there any way that you would like to see the newsletter changed? Let us know
Did you let us know how you would like to receive the newsletter?
Special Events
October 28, 1:30PM Service At Hampden House.
5:00 Potluck Dinner
6:00 Wes Taber American Messianic Fellowship
November 3 – 7:30 Men’s Breakfast
November 8 – 7:00 Crime Watch
November 18 – Harvest Home dinner. No Sunday School Service at 10:30am
November 25 – 1:30pm Service at Hampden House
November 19 – 7pm Wesleyan Woman’s Sonshine Club
December 1 – 7:30 am Men’s breakfast
December 13 – 7pm Crime Watch
December 16 Christmas Dinner following the morning Service
December 23 – 1:30pm Service at Hampden House
December 31st – Communion Service
WEEKLY EVENTS
Sunday:
9:45am Sunday School for all ages
11:00am Morning Worship
6:00pm Bible Study
Wednesday:
6:30pm Prayer Meeting
6:30pm FW Friends grades K-6
Thursday:
6:30 Wesleyan Youth
Lighthouse on the Corner Volume 21 Issue 1 July August 2007.
Prayer Requests
Our missionaries: Mark Taber and family; the Pickett’s, Carol Earl
The Church Plants around the World.
Direction for our Youth group and leader, FW Friends and Leaders.
Our Sunday School.
Pastor Larry and Leona
Our shut ins: Virginia Giannini, Frank & Carol Bacon, Carole Hilts,
Special needs for Ross Thurber, Tom Theriaque, Rod Murdock, Jeannette Smith,
Ralph Hooper, Irving & Mary Newcomb, Carole Burgos, Margaret MacDonald, Wesley Nelsson, Joe & Cindy Bednarski, Lee Herring.
Continued Healing for Sidney Gomez who was hit by a car.
The Hispanic Work with Pastor William Del Rosario.
For those of our church family that are in the military.
For our country, military and its leaders. Be in much prayer for our State.
Continued Church growth and Commitment
Newsletter Announcement
If at all possible we are requesting that the newsletter be sent by e-mail attachment or to be viewed on the web site, rather than sent by mail. As postage and the cost of paper increases, we want to be good stewards of God's money.
We would encourage you to receive this by e-mail or view it on the web if you have internet connection.
Please respond by e-mail to Pastor Larry or Lee Herring at their e-mail address. If no e-mail is available, please advise by phone or postcard.
Thank you so much.
Springfield Wesleyan
Out of one hundred men, one will read the Bible; the other ninety-nine will read the Christian.
D. L. Moody
Sunday School
Sunday School begins each week at 9:45am with a short opening in the sanctuary with our Superintendent Margaret MacDonald.
Our Sunday School is growing with attendance in the high 30’s and as high as 55; therefore, we are in need of teachers. Has God given you the call?
Membership
Anyone interested in church membership here at Springfield Wesleyan please contact Pastor Larry.
FW Friends
FW Friends is for those in Kindergarten through 6th grade.
See you in September
Wesleyan Woman’s Sonshine Club
On our May 21st meeting we voted to change our name to the “Wesleyan Woman’s Sonshine Club”
Approximately 12 ladies of the church have been gathering at Pastor’s house (or Leona’s house) in
Stafford Springs CTon the third Monday of each month.
We are currently watching a video series entitled “Hope for a Women’s Heart“by Kathy Troccoli. We also have a time of fellowship and refreshment.
We would love to have you join us. Anyone needing a ride can meet at the church by 6:30pm or contact Pastor at 413-478-9708
For any additional information see Leona Fair
Wesleyan Youth
Youth Meets Thursday nights at 6:30 with Linda Bates in charge. She also has the help of Jerry Thivierge, Roger Westbrooks and Tom Theriaque.
They want to thank all those who came and got their cars washed.
They are collecting cans and bottles, so please contact Mr. Tom.
WESLEYAN MEN
The Men meet the first Saturday of each month at 7:30am for Breakfast, a time of fellowship, prayer, and devotions under the direction of Tom Theriaque.
All men are welcome for fellowship and Bible Study. For more info, contact Tom or the church.
Salt, when dissolved in water, may disappear, but it does not cease to exist. We can be sure of its presence by tasting the water. Likewise, the indwelling Christ, though unseen, will be made evident to others from the love which he imparts to us. -- Sadhu Sundar Singh
Just Give It To Jesus. Yeah, Right! "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.... For every man shall bear his own burden" (Galatians 6:2, 5, NIV). Sometimes the Bible seems to contradict itself. Today's scripture is a prime example. "Bear one another's burdens ... for every man must bear his own burden?"
Actually, the explanation is simple. In the original language, the first burden is a burden like a heavy rock or a weight that one person cannot carry alone because it is far too heavy.
The second burden that each one must carry for himself is like a knapsack, one that each individual is quite able to carry. When we carry another person's knapsack for him we are being codependent and contributing to the over-dependent-not-want-to-take-responsibility-for-himself person's sickness, which makes us a part of his sickness. Then there are those people who want God to carry their knapsack. No such luck. God isn't codependent. And then some people expect those who are caring a heavy rock burden to just give it to the Lord! Sometimes this is a copout because we don't want to help bear another's burdens. It's so much easier for us if they will just take it to the cross and give it to Jesus! A dear friend just lost a loved one. The grief was tearing her heart to shreds. Could you imagine how insensitive I would have been had I said, "Just take it to Jesus." Yes, she needs to take it to Jesus but she also needs to take it to safe, understanding people who will perhaps say nothing, but just sit and cry with her, hug her and hold her hand--and be "as Jesus" to her. We are to weep with those who weep, comfort the sorrowing, hold the hand of a fallen friend and help him/her to his/her feet again. We are to bear one another's burdens when they have been given a large rock to carry. And we are to get out of the way of rescuing those who don't want to carry their own knapsack. This is one vital way how we fulfill the law of Christ. We serve God by serving people. Suggested prayer: "Thank you God that you bore my burden of sin when Jesus went to the cross for me. Please help me to be responsible and bear my own knapsack but be available to help those whose rock burden is far too heavy for them to carry alone.
Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen." Today's Daily Encounter 5-26-06 By Richard Innes. Published and (c) by ACTS International http://www.actsweb.org
Harsh words don't break bones but they do break hearts
CHURCH NEWS
Our Local Church Conference was May 19th. We started with a pot luck supper for 50 people. Twenty One members and 3 non members were at the LCC meeting.
Pastor Larry, Leona and Irving Newcomb traveled to NY for the District Conference June 21-22.
The youth ran a successful car wash on June 30th.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL August 13-17 Galilee By-the-Sea Catch Jesus in Action! Galilee By-the-Sea immerses learners of all ages in Bible-times culture, helping kids and adults explore what it might have been like to live when Jesus did. Families will:
experience new traditions,
taste new foods,
try new arts and crafts projects,
and discover that God sent his most precious gift – his own Son – to save us from our sins.
VBS is for all ages 0-90!
For more information contact Leona Fair or Pastor Larry.
Lighthouse on the Corner
Volume 20 Issue 6 May/June 2007
Membership
Anyone interested in church membership here at Springfield Wesleyan please contact Pastor Larry.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Sunday School begins each week at 9:45am with a short opening in the sanctuary with our Superintendent Margaret MacDonald.
We are growing fast with attendance in the high 30’s and as high as 55; therefore, we are inneed of teachers. Has God given you the call?
FW Friends
FW Friends is for those in Kindergarten through 6th grade.
We meet on Wednesday Nights from 6:30 – 7:30pm,
Wesleyan Woman’s Sonshine Club
The ladies of the church have been gathering at Pastor’s house (or Leona’s house) in
Stafford Springs CT
on the third Monday of each month.
We watch video sections of the Women of Faith Conferences.
Leona gives us assignments for the next meeting, and we are learning about being a well dressed Christian, putting on the fruit of the Spirit.
There is a time of fellowship and refreshment.
We travel down together in one or two vans. Anyone needing a ride can contact Pastor Larry.
For any additional information see Leona Fair.
WESLEYAN MEN
The Men meet the first Saturday of each month at 7:30am for Breakfast, a time of fellowship, prayer, and devotions under the direction of Tom Theriaque.
All men are welcome for fellowship and Bible Study. For more info, contact Tom or the church.
Wesleyan Youth
Youth Meets Thursday nights at 6:30 with Linda Bates in charge. She also has the help of Jerry Thivierge, Roger Westbrooks and Tom Theriaque.
The Difference a “1” makes.
CHURCH NEWS
Chosen People with Randall & Luda Ford came on March 25th and explained Messiah in the Passover.
Palm Sunday, April 1st, “The Green’s” were here to perform in concert. Les & Linda Green’s music was enthusiastically welcomed with 97 in attendance.
On Easter Sunday we started with a Sunrise Service here outside the church. In the cold air all 23 of us sang fervently and listened to Pastor Larry speak as the sun came up over the houses.
Following the service we went downstairs for an enormous breakfast of scrambled eggs, sausage, hash browns and pancakes, cooked by Tom Theriaque, Rob Everett and Jerry Thivierge. With 28 for the breakfast we had a wonderful time of talking.
After that there was Sunday School with 39 of us. And the morning service, including communion, with 70 in attendance.
Sunday April 22 Pastor Larry was all set to talk to us on being lost at sea. Instead we were lifted by the Holy Spirit as he prayed for all who came forward for a healing touch. The Lord took over the service.
A Special Place
There is a special place in life,
The time will be demanding,
There is a special place in life,
There is a mark that I must leave,
There is a special place in life,
There is a hand that I must hold,
There is a special place in life
There's always a tomorrow and the
Author Unknown Peace starts with a smile
.WATCH IT GROW!
- Isaiah 55:5
"Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you. Because of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, for He has endowed you with splendor."
Have you ever wondered why some churches grow and others do not? I'm not talking about a few members a year; I'm talking about explosive growth, growth that makes the church building strain with the new growth, becoming so full that there's no more room for new people. I've seen it happen _ a church that sits fairly stagnant for twenty-five or thirty years suddenly takes off and quintuples in size in two or three years. What happened? What made all this growth suddenly happen? Did the church leaders attend a conference on church growth and apply all the marketing principles they learned there? Yes, but it didn't work. Did they hire an outside consultant who instituted recruiting efforts that would bring in hundreds of new members? Yes, but that didn't work either. Did all the members suddenly start inviting all their neighbors to church, telling them about the wonderful programs of the church and how great a body of believers attended there? Yes, but that didn't work either.
What happened is that the members of the church all began to come to Him (they opened their Bibles), listen to Him (they read His Word faithfully, every day), seek Him (they prayed continually, without looking at their watches), and call on Him (they asked Him for guidance, for knowledge, for wisdom, for whatever they needed!). Suddenly, there was a body of believers who were very well fed. They got fat on God's Word. They were full of His Spirit. And they didn't have to do an "earthly" thing to bring in new members. Because they were doing what God wanted, His Holy Spirit guided others to them -- in droves!
Would you like to see the same thing happen in your church? Then stop being disobedient. Stop being hungry and thirsty. Pray that everyone else in your church will do the same. When you all do what God says, then "Surely you will summon nations (people, new church members) you know not, and nations (people, new church members) that do not know you will hasten to you because of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, for He has endowed you with splendor."
Don't wait for six strong men to take you to church
WHERE
Where do I go when my tears roll down? Where do I go when pressures press down? Where do I go when pain laughs at me? Where do I go to find laughter and glee? Where do I go when I get drained out? Where do I go when all I can do is cry and pout? Where do I go when I feel insecure? Where do I go when I curl up with fear? Where do I go when situations go out of hand? Where do I go when I don't understand? Where do I go when I have to decide? Where do I go when people take me for a ride? Where do I go when I get rejected? Where do I go to be accepted? I'll just go back on my knees Where I'll find my Lord giving me eternal peace!
Caroline Naoroji
Mar 15, 2005
Special Events
May 5 -- 7:30 am Men’s Group
May 10 – 7:00pm Crime Watch
May 19th – 5pm Local Annual Conference
May 21st 7:00pm Wesleyan Women’s Sonshine Club
May 27 –1:30pm Service at Hampden House
June 2 – 7:30 AM Men’s Group
June 14 – Crime Watch
June 18 – 7PM Wesleyan Woman’s Sonshine Club
June 24 - 1:30PM Service at Hampden House.
June 21 - District Ordination Service Hadley-Luzerne Wesleyan, Queensbury, NY
June 22 – DistrictConferenceLakeViewConferenceCenter, Lake George, NY
Best is yet to be,
And somewhere in this world,
I know there is a place for me.
That I was meant to fill.
A sunny spot where flowers grow,
Upon a windy hill.
A word that I must say,
A smile that I must give
For there are tears to blow away.
That only I may share,
A little path that bears my name,
Awaiting me somewhere.
However small it seems to be,
A legacy of love for those
Who follow after me
A goal I must attain,
A dream that I must follow,
Because I won't be back again.
And the pay is not too good
And yet I wouldn't change it
For a moment -- even if I could
That needs my humble skill,
A certain job I'm meant to do,
Which no one else can fulfill.
A lady was getting married and asked the cake decorator to put the verse 1 John 4:18 on the cake as a testament of their Love. “There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear.”
Well somewhere the 1 was lost and the verse listed was John 4:18 “The fact is, you have had five husbands and the man you now have is not your husband.“
They are collecting cans and bottles, so please contact Mr. Tom.
Volume 20 Issue 5 March/April
Deepest Sympathy
Rev. Peter Isaac’s wife Lynn Taitt-Isaac, 33 was in a fatal auto accident on the NY State Thruway March 6th during extreme whiteout conditions. Pastor Peter is the pastor at the Hartford Wesleyan Church . Our heartfelt Prayers and sympathy are extended to him, the families and the congregation of the Hartford Wesleyan.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Sunday School begins each week at 9:45am with a short opening in the sanctuary with our Superintendent Margaret MacDonald. We are growing fast with attendance in the high 30’s and as high as 55, and we are in need of teachers. Has God given you the call?
FW FRIENDS
FW Friends is for those in Kin¬dergarten through 6th grade. We meet on Wednesday Nights from 6:30 – 7:30pm , Anyone interested in helping with snack and or craft time please contact Leona Fair
ALL BECAUSE SOMEONE PRAYED - - -
by Max Lucado Those who pray keep alive the watch fires of faith. For the most part we don’t even know their names. Such is the case of someone who prayed on a day long ago. His name is not important. His looks are immaterial. His gender is of no concern. His title is irrelevant. He is important not because of who he was, but because of what he did. He went to Jesus on behalf of a friend. His friend was sick, and Jesus could help, and someone needed to go to Jesus, so someone went. John writes: “So Mary and Martha sent someone to tell Jesus, ‘Lord, the one you love is sick’” (John 11:3). Someone carried the request. Someone walked the trail. Someone went to Jesus on behalf of Lazarus. And because someone went, Jesus responded. The Master heard the request. Jesus stopped whatever he was doing and took note of the man’s words. This anonymous courier was heard by God. You can talk to God because God listens. Your voice matters in heaven. He takes you very seriously. When you enter his presence, the attendants turn to you to hear your voice. No need to fear that you will be ignored. Even if you stammer or stumble, even if what you have to say impresses no one, it impresses God—and he listens. He listens to the painful plea of the elderly in the rest home. He listens to the gruff confession of the death-row inmate. When the alcoholic begs for mercy, when the spouse seeks guidance, when the businessman steps off the street into the chapel, God listens. Intently. Carefully. The prayers are honored as precious jewels. Purified and empowered, the words rise in a delightful fragrance to our Lord. “The smoke from the incense went up from the angel’s hand to God” (Rev. 8:4). Incredible. Your words do not stop until they reach the very throne of God. One call and heaven’s fleet appears. Your prayer on earth activates God’s power in heaven. You are the someone of God’s kingdom. Your prayers move God to change the world. You may not understand the mystery of prayer. You don’t need to. But this much is clear: Actions in heaven begin when someone prays on earth. What an amazing thought! When you speak, Jesus hears. And when Jesus hears, the world is changed. All because someone prayed. ___________________________
From America Looks Up Copyright 2001, Max Lucado
CHURCH NEWS
From January 1-6 Pastor Larry and Leona were able to go to, “the Gathering” in Florida , the first of its kind for Wesleyan Pastors across our denomination and across the country. February 10th we had our Snowflake Dinner for adults. Pastor Larry spoke on Love. We had good food and a good time of fellowship.
See the weekly bulletin for any additions and/or changes!
January February 2007
Quip
A Sunday School teacher asked her class why Joseph and Mary took Jesus with them to Jerusalem . A small child replied: "They couldn't get a babysitter."
.
Walk the Walk ,
by Mike Barres
I often hear of evangelists and churches that stress salvation. That's good, but we must also talk about "the walk" we have with our Lord. Our "walk" with the Lord is a very Biblical term.
Jesus spoke to his followers and told them, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" (John 8:12 NKJV). Paul said something along the same lines, "Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:4). He also said, "Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy" (Romans 13:13). To another group, Paul wrote, "I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh" (Galatians 5:16 ). (The emphasis on "walk" in each of these passages was added by the author.)
Salvation is just the beginning; let's learn to "walk the walk" too.
We've all heard the saying, "If you can't walk the walk, then don't talk the talk." This is very true. I'm sure that we have way too many hypocrites in the church that talk the talk, but don't live the Christian life. However, something else is true: many don't know how to "walk the walk." The Bible talks about "sins of ignorance" (Hebrews 9:7). Sometimes I think that we get so excited about presenting the gospel and seeing people saved that we forget to follow through with showing them how to "walk the walk." We leave them in ignorance, unprepared and unsupported in their new walk in Jesus.
Maybe no one ever took time to show them.
I have seen people "get saved" over and over again, so to speak, because they assumed that they must not have meant it the previous time simply because their life was such a mess. Maybe no one ever took the time to show them how to "walk the walk." Part of the Great Commission, Jesus' last words before leaving earth, reminds us that we must teach new followers to "walk the walk"! Jesus reminded us that we must be "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you ..." (Matthew 28:20). Again, the emphasis is added as sort of my "Amen" to what Jesus said -- our teaching must be training in how to walk the Christian life and not just talk it.
Some people don't know how to "walk the walk," but don't seem to care. Others don't know and don't know that they don't know. Let's show them the way to "walk the walk" and let's be willing to learn how to "walk the walk" ourselves.
As we get ready for the New Year, let's commit to make 2007 a year we walk the walk! Our friends have heard enough talk. Let's get to the walk!
And though the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore, but your eyes shall see your teachers. Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it," whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left. (Isaiah 30:20-21 )
(c) 2006 Mike Barres mbarres@dnet.net.
CHURCH NEWS
On Sunday November 12 we held our Annual Harvest Home Dinner with 79 present.
On November 16th Youth started on Thursday Nights
December 3rd we were joined by Ron Willoughby from the Springfield Rescue Mission. He brought two men with him who gave their testimonies.
December 17th The Spanish Church put on the Christmas Dinner with Spanish Food and games.
On December 18th Margaret took over 150+ pieces of scarves, mittens and hats to the
White Streetand Kensington Avenueschools.
December 24th We held our annual Christmas Pageant with the whole church (93) participating in singing, Bible readings and the children acting out the nativity story. We also had a visitation of the “multitude of the heavenly host”
The deadline for the March/April Newsletter is Monday, February 19th. Please have all articles and dates in before that time.
Remember we are looking for contributions from everyone!
Is there any way that you would like to see the newsletter changed? Let us know
Lighthouse on the Corner
Springfield Wesleyan Church
Volume 20 Issue 3
Jesus, like any good fisherman, first catches the fish; then He cleans them. -- Mark Potter
Gone to be with Our Lord
Rev. Hervey Taber passed away Tuesday morning the 24th.
Wesleyan Men
The Men meet the first Saturday of each month at 7:30am , for breakfast, a time of fellowship, prayer, and devotions under the direction of Tom Theriaque.
All men are welcome for fellowship and Bible Study. For more info, contact Tom or the church
Church News
September started with a flurry of activity. The winding down of VBS and getting ready for our 60th Anniversary Celebration.
Saturday the 16th we had 100 friends and relatives from far and wide. A few of the places were South Carolina , Delaware , Kansas , Pennsylvania , Vermont and North Carolina . We enjoyed the company and joyous times over hamburgers and hot dogs and all the rest.
On Sunday morning some came back to join us in Sunday School and morning worship.
The biggest and best was the afternoon Service. One hundred and forty-five joined in remembering the past and looking toward the future.
During this time we had a moment for a very special lady, Mrs. Jeannette Smith, who was honored for her years of service with a song by Ray Boltz, “Thank You”.
Pastor Larry presented Jeannette with a certificate of appreciation and along with the approval of the LBA; we have named the Fellowship Hall in her honor.
Pastor Keith Warner gave us a glimpse of the past. He felt like it was “old home week” with so many of those who were with him in the youth group as well as so many from when he was here as pastor. Dr. Ed Lindsey, our District Superintendent talked about the future of the church.
Afterward we gathered for a group picture on the side of the church.
Then we adjourned to the fellowship room for refreshments and a wonderful time was had by all.
On October 20th we had the Southern Zone Mission Rally here at 7PM , with representation from the Ellington, Hartford and Springfield Churches .
EVERY JOB IS ESSENTIAL – Judges 8:1-3 Wednesday, June 15
Now the Ephraimites asked Gideon, "Why have you treated us like this? Why didn't you call us when you went to fight Midian?" And they criticized him sharply.
But he answered them, "What have I accomplished compared to you? Aren't the gleanings of Ephraim's grapes better than the full grape harvest of Abiezer? God gave Oreb and Zeeb, the Midianite leaders, into your hands. What was I able to do compared to you?" At this, their resentment against him subsided.
The Ephraimites were not at all happy with Gideon. They hadn't been invited to participate in the battle, but instead were told to come along behind Gideon's army and take care of the stragglers. They felt the job they had been given was too unimportant, too ordinary for them. They didn't get all the glory the main army did. They felt cheated and left out. So they complained to Gideon about it. And Gideon told them, "Hey, guys, calm down. You did a really important job here. Coming in behind us like that, you managed to capture the Midianites' generals and cut them off from their men. That was extremely important. What we did was nothing in comparison to that!" After this little lecture, the Ephraimites were pacified.
So many of us are under the impression that the only people who are really serving God are the Pastors and the teachers and the evangelists and the administrators of our churches. And, of course, the only missionaries who are doing any real good are the ones in darkest Africa . What we fail to realize is that every job is essential. Not just important. Essential.
Think about it. The church we used to attend, for instance, did not have permanent seats in the sanctuary. This was because our sanctuary doubled (and tripled and quadrupled) as a gym, plus a few other functional things. I never saw the men who set up the seating for our church services, but I was certainly grateful that they did their jobs! That wooden floor would have been terribly uncomfortable to sit on! The men who set up our chairs every week provided an essential service for the rest of us. Look at all the other functions within your church. The people who distribute the hymnals. The secretaries who keep the work flowing day in and day out. The print shop that makes sure you have a Sunday bulletin to look at. The man who takes coffee all over the building on Sunday morning, making sure that your classroom has a steaming pot full. And the janitors who come in and clean when no one is there.
Are you happy with the job God has given you? Or do you long for a more "glamorous" position in God's service? Remember, just because some jobs are more "glamorous"... just because they are more noticeable... just because those people stay in the limelight... doesn't make them more important. The person who cleans the toilets is just as essential as the one who stands at the pulpit.
INFORMATION: Finances required for meeting our weekly budget are $1000/week.
Is there any way that you would like to see the newsletter changed? Let us know
September/October 2006
As we were putting together this newsletter we noticed that we have been putting it out for 20 years.
WOW.
Snuggle in God's arms. When you are hurting, when you feel lonely, left out...let him cradle you, comfort you, reassure you of His all-sufficient power and love.
-Kay Arthur
THE CURSE OF THE FIG TREE
-- Matthew 21:18-19 NIV
Early in the morning, as he was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, "May you never bear fruit again!" Immediately the tree withered.
The morning after He cleared the temple, Jesus was on his way back to the city. Even though He had spent the night in Bethany, most probably with Lazarus, Mary and Martha, He was hungry. With Mary's industrious attitude, it's a little hard to imagine Him getting out of the house without her feeding Him a huge breakfast. However, it's a long walk to Jerusalem from Bethany, and scripture says that He was hungry. He saw a fig tree by the side of the road up ahead. Most likely, the tree was a large, lush one, since Jesus immediately assumed that it would have plenty of figs. However, when He got closer, He saw that there were no figs to be had.... only lots of pretty, lush leaves. When Jesus saw this, He said, "May you never bear fruit again!" And the tree shriveled up immediately, turning brown and dying.
Now, why would Jesus do such a thing? Sounds pretty self-seeking, doesn't it, to curse a tree just because you're hungry and the tree doesn't have any fruit? But look a little closer. That tree represents the church and the individual Christians within it. What looks good on the outside, upon close examination, may be worthless - and fruitless. Just because a person dresses well, spouts a lot of scripture and Christian "lingo"… just because a person shows up at church every Sunday and serves on committees and does all the other "Christian" things we expect… that doesn't mean the person is "bearing fruit" in his or her life. If a person only appears to have faith, but doesn't apply that faith in his or her day by day, hour by hour walk... then that person is just like that fig tree - great to look at, but worthless in the kingdom of God.
The same goes for our churches. Although the Temple was beautiful to look at, what was going on inside was a "den of robbers". A church today can be housed in a beautiful building, but be dead inside. And it, too, is worthless in the kingdom of God.
Pray that your life - and that of your church - will be more than just beautiful on the surface.... that both will reflect a deep, close, intimate walk with Jesus, our Lord and Savior, and bear the kind of fruit that they should.
When confronted with a Goliath-size problem, which way do you respond-- "He's too big to hit", or like David, "He's too big to miss"?
Some people who watch "Saturday Night Live" come to church "Sunday Morning Dead"!
Come work for the Lord.The work is hard, the hours are long and the pay is low.But the retirement benefits are out of this world!
A singing group call "The Resurrection" was scheduled to sing at a church.When a big snowstorm postponed the performance, the pastor fixed the outside sign to read, "The Resurrection is postponed"!
The good Lord didn't create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.
When you get to your wit's end, you'll find that God lives there.
People are funny. They want the front of the bus, the middle of the road and the back of the church.
Prayer Requests
Our missionaries: Mark Taber and family; the Pickett’s, Carol Earl
The Church Plants around the World.
Direction for our Youth group and leader, FW Friends and Leaders.
Our Sunday School.
Pastor Larry and Leona
Our shut ins: Virginia Giannini, Frank & Carol Bacon, Carole Hilts,
Special needs for Ralph Hooper, Ross Thurber Irving & Mary Newcomb, Carole Burgos, Margaret MacDonald, Tom Theriaque, Wesley Nelsson, Joe & Cindy Bednarski, Lee Herring
The Hispanic Work with Pastor William Del Rosario.
The HartfordWesleyanChurch as Rev & Mrs. Peter Isaac leads the church.
For those of our church family that are in the military.
For our country, military and it’s leaders. Be in muchprayer for our State.
Continued Church growth and Commitment
Address changes
Doreen & Wesley Nelsson Falcon Knoll – Apt 301 28 Miles Morgan Ct Wilbraham , MA01095
Jeannette Smith 33 Hill Pasture Rd Somers , CT06071
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Sunday School begins each week at with a short opening in the sanctuary with our Superintendent Margaret MacDonald.
VACATIONBIBLESCHOOL
August 14th – 18th
We had a fantastic week. The weather was in the 70’s and no rain during the hours of VBS.
The parking lot was transformed into Bethlehem year 6B.C complete with tents and a well to gather around. We all got to see what life was like during the days that Jesus was born. Dramas, with costumes of that time, showed the kind of conversations that could have gone on in Bethlehem , with the shepherds, the census taker, the kings from far away and the arrival of Joseph and Mary.
We all learned new songs. We went to the Coppersmith Shop, the Farmer’s Market, Toy & Jewelry Shop and the Dye Shop, Mosaic Shop, Grain Mill, and Coin Shop. We had fresh bread each night from the Bakery Shop.
There were 23 new people here with an average of 73. Thanks to Leona Fair and Jeannette Smith and all that helped to put together another great VBS.
MEN'S GROUP
The Men meet the first Saturday of each month at , for Breakfast, a time of fellowship, prayer, and devotions under the direction of Tom Theriaque.
All men are welcome for fellowship and Bible Study, for more info, contact Tom or the church
FW FRIENDS
FW Friends is for those in Kindergarten through 6th grade. They meet on Wednesday Nights from , September – June. Anyone interested in being a special guest, please check the list on the bulletin board for dates and the opportunities to share.
SEE YOU ON SEPTEMBER 20th.
CHURCH NEWS
July started with Pastor and Leona going up to West Chazy for Family Camp.
They had barely gotten back when Jerry and Laurie, Joyce and 4 children (plus of course Erik) went up for Kids Camp.
There has been a flurry of activity at the church over the summer with the renovations of the two downstairs restrooms, halls and much painting.
August started with a block party put on by the Avalon Crime watch. Part of Grand Street was roped off for the festivities. There was food, a fire engine, and a walk around the neighborhood.
August was also busy with getting ready for VBS. We had a fun day at the church with face painting, games, and food. It was a time to pre-register for VBS.
VacationBibleSchool took up the week of August 12th.
Singspiration was postponed until August 27 and was supposed to be held in Ellington under the big top. Due to rain it was inside. Each Singspiration seems to get better. Those who go always leave inspired.
Furnace
There is still a substantial loan payment of over $600.00 that has to be paid each month. Anyone who would like to contribute, please mark your check or envelope “Furnace”.
Today’s Inspirational Story:
Finding God on the Mountain
A Scoutmaster discovers he had to get lost in order to find what was missing from his life
By Tony McIntosh
I’m a scoutmaster for a small Boy Scout troop in my town. This summer during camp I went along with two of the older scouts – my son, who is 14 and another boy, 15 – on what’s known as “The Adventure Trek,” a 28mille backpacking trip that includes two days of white-water rafting. Our Troop had gone backpacking in the past but never like this, so it was going to be a challenge for all of us.
The first day of the hike we covered a little over 14 miles, reaching two summits that were 4500 to 5200 feet. We were in a group of 26 hikers, some of whom had hiked 50-mile treks before, while others had only been on fire or seven mile day hikes. We were in the latter group.
As the day wore on, we started breaking up into smaller groups. My little group was bringing up the rear. After our last rest stop, we were to get instructions from another scoutmaster in the group as to where our camp would be that night. There were other groups on the trail so if we ran into trouble, we knew where help would be.
We passed our first two reference points on the trail so we knew we were following the directions properly. Then we came upon another trail. I remembered something being said about this trail, but I couldn’t remember whether we were to take it or not. With about two-and-a-half hours of daylight remaining, I made the decision to take off down the trail.
As we walked, I noticed that the trail didn’t look worn, which should have been my first clue that something was wrong. We had gone about a mile and a half when we came to a creek. I then realized we must have taken a wrong turn, but without a map I wasn’t sure (the guide in charge of our group was holding the map).
At this point I became concerned. It was getting dark, and we were down to a half-liter of water for the three of us. We made a plan to go to the trail intersection where we had made the wrong turn and camp out there for the night once it turned dark. If we weren’t in camp, I knew they would come looking for us, so the best place for us would be at the cross trail.
As we were going back up the mountain, I started blowing my whistle, hoping someone would hear it.
As I blew, the wind picked up as if a rainstorm was coming. The more I blew, the stronger the wind became. The only thing on my mind was getting these two young men and myself into camp as soon as possible. As we traveled up the mountain, I stopped to rest. I leaned my head on my walking stick and said silently, “God, what do I do? Where am I going?”
All of a sudden the wind started blowing to the west. Because wind comes over mountain peaks in what is known as thermals, it was odd to get that much wind where we were on the trail Nevertheless, I felt compelled to follow it. We turned around, walked back to where the trails intersected, turned left and headed west.
We found our camp 200 yards down the trail just as darkness was setting in. Luckily, our guide, who had backtracked over six miles and back to search for us, arrived safely back at the camp as well.
The more I thought about this experience, the more I realized this was not just about getting lost in the woods. I know I sometimes take God for granted and fail to realize He’s always with us. I had been feeling separated from God for some time. As I’ve gotten older I have strayed from Him and haven’t been as spiritual as I once was.
I’ve realized sometimes you have to get lost in order to find what is really important in life. On that day, I learned God Speaks to us in different ways. And on that particular day, He guided me with the wind. He helped me to stay calm, and I realized that I was never really lost. God just needed to get me aside and tell me something-that He is everywhere and there when we need Him the most. God was on the mountain that day, and I found Him again.
Contributed by
Janet Theriaque
Information Needed
IT'S Here!
On September 17 2006 at Springfield will be celebrating its SIXTIETH anniversary.
We will also be having a cookout for all church goers and visitors on Saturday, Sept 16 at .
We have an e-mail address just for anniversary messages. It is: SWC60th@juno.com . Or you can send them to Pastor Larry at LCfair@pcnet.com
Time is coming up very fast. If you haven’t sent in your RSVP please do so as soon as possible!
Pastor Larry
Jeannette Smith,
Margaret MacDonald,
Leona Fair
Lee Herring
Note: the e-mail address SWC60th@ juno.com will be deactivated on 9-30-06 .
Special Events
September 2 -- Men’s Group
September Crime Watch
September 15-16 Couples Retreat
September 16th Anniversary Gathering at .
September 17th – 60th Anniversary Celebration
September 24 - 1:30pm Service at Hampden House
October Men’s Group
October 12 – Crime Watch
October 22, Serviceat Hampden House.
October 29 – Singspiration To be announced
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
We believe the highest call we can attain is to live our lives as a servant for Jesus Christ; to do what Jesus would do by fulfilling the great commission, reaching out in love to the lost and winning them to Christ.
Prayer Requests
Our missionaries: Mark Taber and family; the Pickett’s, Carol Earl
The Church Plants around the World.
Direction for our Youth group and leader, FW Friends and Leaders.
Our Sunday School.
Pastor Larry and Leona
Our shut ins: Virginia Giannini, Frank & Carol Bacon, Carole Hilts,
Special needs for Ralph Hooper, Ross Thurber Irving & Mary Newcomb, Carole Burgos, Margaret MacDonald, Tom Theriaque, Wesley Nelsson, Joe & Cindy Bednarski, Lee Herring
The Hispanic Work with Pastor William Del Rosario.
The Hartford Wesleyan Church as Rev & Mrs. Peter Isaac leads the church.
For those of our church family that are in the military.
For our country, military and it’s leaders. Be in muchprayer for our State.
Continued Church growth and Commitment
Address changes
Doreen & Wesley Nelsson Falcon Knoll – Apt 301 28 Miles Morgan Ct Wilbraham , MA 01095
Jeannette Smith 33 Hill Pasture Rd Somers , CT 06071
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Sunday School begins each week at 9:45am with a short opening in the sanctuary with our Superintendent Margaret MacDonald.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
August 14th – 18th
We had a fantastic week. The weather was in the 70’s and no rain during the hours of VBS.
The parking lot was transformed into Bethlehem year 6B.C complete with tents and a well to gather around. We all got to see what life was like during the days that Jesus was born. Dramas, with costumes of that time, showed the kind of conversations that could have gone on in Bethlehem , with the shepherds, the census taker, the kings from far away and the arrival of Joseph and Mary.
We all learned new songs. We went to the Coppersmith Shop, the Farmer’s Market, Toy & Jewelry Shop and the Dye Shop, Mosaic Shop, Grain Mill, and Coin Shop. We had fresh bread each night from the Bakery Shop.
There were 23 new people here with an average of 73. Thanks to Leona Fair and Jeannette Smith and all that helped to put together another great VBS.
MEN'S GROUP
The Men meet the first Saturday of each month at 7:30am, for Breakfast, a time of fellowship, prayer, and devotions under the direction of Tom Theriaque.
All men are welcome for fellowship and Bible Study, for more info, contact Tom or the church
FW FRIENDS
FW Friends is for those in Kindergarten through 6th grade. They meet on Wednesday Nights from 6:30 – 7:30pm , September – June. Anyone interested in being a special guest, please check the list on the bulletin board for dates and the opportunities to share.
SEE YOU ON SEPTEMBER 20th.
CHURCH NEWS
July started with Pastor and Leona going up to West Chazy for Family Camp.
They had barely gotten back when Jerry and Laurie, Joyce and 4 children (plus of course Erik) went up for Kids Camp.
There has been a flurry of activity at the church over the summer with the renovations of the two downstairs restrooms, halls and much painting.
August started with a block party put on by the Avalon Crime watch. Part of Grand Street was roped off for the festivities. There was food, a fire engine, and a walk around the neighborhood.
August was also busy with getting ready for VBS. We had a fun day at the church with face painting, games, and food. It was a time to pre-register for VBS.
Vacation Bible School took up the week of August 12th.
Singspiration was postponed until August 27 and was supposed to be held in Ellington under the big top. Due to rain it was inside. Each Singspiration seems to get better. Those who go always leave inspired.
Furnace
There is still a substantial loan payment of over $600.00 that has to be paid each month. Anyone who would like to contribute, please mark your check or envelope “Furnace”.
Today’s Inspirational Story:
Finding God on the Mountain
A Scoutmaster discovers he had to get lost in order to find what was missing from his life
By Tony McIntosh
I’m a scoutmaster for a small Boy Scout troop in my town. This summer during camp I went along with two of the older scouts – my son, who is 14 and another boy, 15 – on what’s known as “The Adventure Trek,” a 28mille backpacking trip that includes two days of white-water rafting. Our Troop had gone backpacking in the past but never like this, so it was going to be a challenge for all of us.
The first day of the hike we covered a little over 14 miles, reaching two summits that were 4500 to 5200 feet. We were in a group of 26 hikers, some of whom had hiked 50-mile treks before, while others had only been on fire or seven mile day hikes. We were in the latter group.
As the day wore on, we started breaking up into smaller groups. My little group was bringing up the rear. After our last rest stop, we were to get instructions from another scoutmaster in the group as to where our camp would be that night. There were other groups on the trail so if we ran into trouble, we knew where help would be.
We passed our first two reference points on the trail so we knew we were following the directions properly. Then we came upon another trail. I remembered something being said about this trail, but I couldn’t remember whether we were to take it or not. With about two-and-a-half hours of daylight remaining, I made the decision to take off down the trail.
As we walked, I noticed that the trail didn’t look worn, which should have been my first clue that something was wrong. We had gone about a mile and a half when we came to a creek. I then realized we must have taken a wrong turn, but without a map I wasn’t sure (the guide in charge of our group was holding the map).
At this point I became concerned. It was getting dark, and we were down to a half-liter of water for the three of us. We made a plan to go to the trail intersection where we had made the wrong turn and camp out there for the night once it turned dark. If we weren’t in camp, I knew they would come looking for us, so the best place for us would be at the cross trail.
As we were going back up the mountain, I started blowing my whistle, hoping someone would hear it.
As I blew, the wind picked up as if a rainstorm was coming. The more I blew, the stronger the wind became. The only thing on my mind was getting these two young men and myself into camp as soon as possible. As we traveled up the mountain, I stopped to rest. I leaned my head on my walking stick and said silently, “God, what do I do? Where am I going?”
All of a sudden the wind started blowing to the west. Because wind comes over mountain peaks in what is known as thermals, it was odd to get that much wind where we were on the trail Nevertheless, I felt compelled to follow it. We turned around, walked back to where the trails intersected, turned left and headed west.
We found our camp 200 yards down the trail just as darkness was setting in. Luckily, our guide, who had backtracked over six miles and back to search for us, arrived safely back at the camp as well.
The more I thought about this experience, the more I realized this was not just about getting lost in the woods. I know I sometimes take God for granted and fail to realize He’s always with us. I had been feeling separated from God for some time. As I’ve gotten older I have strayed from Him and haven’t been as spiritual as I once was.
I’ve realized sometimes you have to get lost in order to find what is really important in life. On that day, I learned God Speaks to us in different ways. And on that particular day, He guided me with the wind. He helped me to stay calm, and I realized that I was never really lost. God just needed to get me aside and tell me something-that He is everywhere and there when we need Him the most. God was on the mountain that day, and I found Him again.
Contributed by
Janet Theriaque
Information Needed
IT'S Here!
On September 17 2006 at 4:00pm Springfield will be celebrating its SIXTIETH anniversary.
We will also be having a cookout for all church goers and visitors on Saturday, Sept 16 at 5pm .
We have an e-mail address just for anniversary messages. It is: SWC60th@juno.com . Or you can send them to Pastor Larry at LCfair@pcnet.com
Time is coming up very fast. If you haven’t sent in your RSVP please do so as soon as possible!
Pastor Larry
Jeannette Smith,
Margaret MacDonald,
Leona Fair
Lee Herring
Note: the e-mail address SWC60th@ juno.com will be deactivated on 9-30-06 .
Special Events
September 2 -- 7:30 am Men’s Group
September 14 – 7:00pm Crime Watch
September 15-16 Couples Retreat
September 16th Anniversary Gathering at 5pm .
September 17th – 60th Anniversary Celebration 4pm
September 24 - 1:30pm Service at Hampden House
October 7 – 7:30 AM Men’s Group
October 12 – Crime Watch
October 22, 1:30PM Serviceat Hampden House.
October 29 – 6pm Singspiration To be announced
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
We believe the highest call we can attain is to live our lives as a servant for Jesus Christ; to do what Jesus would do by fulfilling the great commission, reaching out in love to the lost and winning them to Christ.
Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side. Then the other disciple also went in, and he saw and believed---- John 20:3-8 (NLT)
KEY THOUGHT:
So often we need the support of a friend to do that next necessary thing. Peter and the Disciple whom Jesus loved (presumably John) alternate taking the next needed step in this story. John outruns Peter, but doesn't go in the tomb. Peter goes in the tomb and sees. John goes in and sees, then believes. We need each other. Not just for the times of mission -- like when Jesus sent out his disciples two by two -- but for times of weakness, confusion, and distress. Sometimes, maybe even often times, we can't take the next step on our own and we need the help of a friend. Don't try to do the Christian life solo. We need each other to make it the risen Lord with faith and live vibrantly for him!
Holy God, my heavenly Father, thank you for the friends I have who have faithfully encouraged me and nudged me further down the walk of faith and have often taken that next step to help me get to Jesus. Help me be that friend to others so that they, too, can encounter the risen Savior and believe. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
When I have trouble and I can’t sleep, I talk to the Shepherd, I don’t count sheep.
MEN’S GROUP
The Men meet the first Saturday of each month at 7:30am, for Breakfast, a time of fellowship, prayer, and devotions under the direction of Tom Theriaque.
All men are welcome for fellowship and Bible Study, for more info, contact Tom or the church
Annual Meeting
This year’s Local Church Conference will be May 20, starting with a potluck supper at 5:00pm
CHURCH NEWS
March 19th we went to Ellington for a Zone Missions Rally.
Sunday night, March 26th we had a Springtime Progressive Dinner at the church at which time multiple suggestions of what people would like to see happening at our church, or what they would participate in were discussed.
Sunday April 2nd several of us joined Hartford Wesleyan for their 15th Anniversary Service.
On April 8th Les Green and his wife Linda were here for a concert of Christian Music with 43 in attendance.
Sunday April 9th we had a film night showing the “Passion” with 13 attending.
Communion was served at our Good Friday Service here attended by 17.
On Easter Sunday we held a Sunrise Service on the church lawn with 20 of our church family followed by a breakfast cooked by Tom, Jerry and Pastor Larry .
On April 24th we had Singspiration here with all four Wesleyan churches in attendance. Each Singspiration seems to be better than the one before !
Friendship in the Pit
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17
“I am in there again” I told my friend. “The pit.” A time when no one can cheer you up and you wonder if there ever was or is a God. Have you ever had such times? Discouragement can be devastating even to the best of saints. It can bring us so low. The writer of Proverbs phrased it well when he said, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick” (Proverbs 13:12) When we get so low that we despair of our belief, we can identify with the prophet Elijah who wanted to die after being so discouraged with life.
“I’m coming over,” my friend said.
“Aw, you don’t have to do that,” I said.
I’m coming over. We’re going to pray.”
About 30 minutes later my fiend walked in the door. We sat down on the living room floor and simply lay on our backs as my friend began to pray. I didn’t feel like praying. I was too deep in the pit. All I could do was listen. After awhile my friend was quiet. We both sat quietly for ten to fifteen minutes, praying quietly to ourselves. Suddenly my friend said, “First Thessalonians 5:24!”
“What verse is that?” I asked.
“I don’t know,” she said. “that is the verse He spoke to me.”
I grabbed my Bible and looked up the verse. “The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it.”
We laughed. Can He be so personal? Can He care that much? That night I grew more in my love of my two friends, not to mention being brought out of the pit.
Do you have a friend who is there when you need somebody at any hour of the day? Are you there for your friend? Ask the Lord how you can be a better friend to someone today.
God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.
CHURCH BULLETIN BLOOPERS
** Eight new choir robes are currently needed, due to the addition of several new mem-bers and to the deterioration of some older ones.
** Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 P.M. Prayer and medication to follow.
** This evening at 7 P.M. there will be a hymn sing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
** Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10AM. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B.S. is done.
** Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM, Please use the back door.
** Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use the large double door at the side entrance .
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
We believe the highest call we can attain is to live our lives as a servant for Jesus Christ; to do what Jesus would do by fulfilling the great commission, reaching out in love to the lost and winning them to Christ.
CHURCHNEWS
Where does the time go? January and February had a lot of bad weather with 2 Sundays canceled.
January 29th we went to Ellington Wesleyan. Every Singspiration gets better than the one before!
February 11 was our Snowflake Dinner with 23 in attendance. Leona led Family Feud with fun for all. Pastor led us in devotions. Did he know the snow would keep us from church the next day?
During the last few months we have been undergoing construction in the basement halls. The ladies restroom has beenmade handicap accessible.
Inspirational
A few months ago I heard of a church that was closing. They decided to have a funeral service for the church, complete with a coffin. The church was packed and overflowing with those who had attended and supported it over the years. After the Pastor talked about all the years of faithful following God the small church had done, he invited the participants to come forward and view the remains. In the coffin would be the reason the church had died.
As they gazed into the coffin, each saw himselves in a mirror, the only item inside.
On Giving
As he looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. "I tell you the truth," he said, "this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on."Luke 21:1 through Luke 21:4 (NIV)
I had always thought that I couldn’t afford to tithe. Sure I’d heard others say “God provides.” And all we have to do is trust him for what we need. But how could I squeeze that 10% out of an already extremely tight budget?
Finally I took the plunge and started tithing my income – gross income, not what was available after paying all my bills. God’s payment would come first. It is the first check I write each month. Within just a few months my income had increased by almost exactly what I was tithing!
Since then money is still tight, yet as long as I pay God first, there is always enough. My tithe may not be large by most people’s standards. Yet it is large by others.
Who do you pay first? Is it God or does he come after all the other bills. Do you give Him your best or your leftovers?
Anonymous
WATCH IT GROW! -- Isaiah 55:5
"Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you because of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, for He has endowed you with splendor."
Have you ever wondered why some churches grow and others do not? I'm not talking about a few members a year; I'm talking about explosive growth, growth that makes the church building strain with the new growth, becoming so full that there's no more room for new people. I've seen it happen _ a church that sits fairly stagnant for twenty-five or thirty years suddenly takes off and quintuples in size in two or three years. What happened? What made all this growth suddenly happen? Did the church leaders attend a conference on church growth and apply all the marketing principles they learned there? Yes, but it didn't work. Did they hire an outside consultant who instituted recruiting efforts that would bring in hundreds of new members? Yes, but that didn't work either. Did all the members suddenly start inviting all their neighbors to church, telling them about the wonderful programs of the church and how great a body of believers attended there? Yes, but that didn't work either.
What happened is that the members of the church all began to come to Him (they opened their Bibles), listen to Him (they read His Word faithfully, every day), seek Him (they prayed continually, without looking at their watches), and call on Him (they asked Him for guidance, for knowledge, for wisdom, for whatever they needed!). Suddenly, there was a body of believers who were very well fed. They got fat on God's Word. They were full of His Spirit. And they didn't have to do an "earthly" thing to bring in new members. Because they were doing what God wanted, His Holy Spirit guided others to them -- in droves!
Would you like to see the same thing happen in your church? Then stop being disobedient. Stop being hungry and thirsty. Pray that everyone else in your church will do the same. When you all do what God says, then "Surely you will summon nations (people, new church members) you know not, and nations (people, new church members) that do not know you will hasten to you because of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, for He has endowed you with splendor."
From J.R. and Bonnie Ricks, Newsong Ministries
WEDNESDAY, June 4, 2005
Inspiration:
A Brokxn Kxy
Evxn though my typxwritxr is an old modxl, it works quitx wxll xxcxpt for onx of the kxys. I havx many timxs wishxd that it workxd pxrfxctly.
It is trux that thxrx arx forty-onx kxys that function wxll xnough, but just onx kxy not working makxs thx diffxrxncx.
Somxtimxs it sxxms to mx that our church is somxthing likx my typxwritxr -- not all thx kxy pxoplx arx working propxrly.
As onx of thxm, you may say to yoursxlf, "Wxll, I am only onx pxrson, I don't makx or brxak thx church."
But it doxs makx a big diffxrxncx, bxcasx a church, to bx xffxctivx, nxxds thx activx participation of xvxry pxrson.
So, thx nxxt timx your xfforts arx not nxxdxd vxry much, rxmxmbxr my typxwritxr and say to yoursxlf, "I am a kxy pxrson in thx congrxgation and I am nxxdxd vxry much."
This is what happxns to thx wholx church, and multiply this by many timxs -- thx whole thing just doxs not makx sxnsx!
So, don't be a broken key - be a useful one.
Author Unknown
Reverend Keith A Merrick, 58, beloved husband of 32 years to Esther I (Freeman) Merrick, of Enfield, CT departed this life peacefully on Thursday, November 10, 2005. Born in Antigua, son of the late Sylvester and Celestina (Davis) Merrick, he lived in St. Croix U.S.V.I. from the age of 17 until he left to attend the Caribbean Wesleyan College in Barbados. He came to the United States in 1982 and lived in Vernon before moving to Enfield in 1988.
He has been the Pastor of The Hartford Wesleyan Church since 1990.
Keith earned his under-graduate degree from the Caribbean Wesleyan College, and was participating in long distance seminary work at Trinity Theological Seminary. Keith was a member of the District Board of Administration, and the District Board of Ministerial Development for the Eastern New York/New England District of the Wesleyan Church. He was a member of the National Association of Evangelists, and belonged to the Capitol Region Council of Churches.
Rev. Merrick has been a minister for over 32 years, and was a pastor in Curacao, Netherlands Antilles and Saint Croix before coming to Hartford.
Besides his loving wife, he is survived by his children, Jason A. and M. Adrienne Merrick both of Enfield; his brother, George Merrick of New York; two sisters, Irone Pilgrim and Ruby Paul both of Antigua, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. Besides his parents, Keith was pre-deceased by a sister Rita James. Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 19, 11 a.m. at the Ellington Wesleyan Church,
276 Crystal Lake Road(junction of Rt. 140 and Rt. 83), Ellington, with Dr. Edward Lindsey officiating. Burial followed in Hazardville Cemetery, Enfield. Memorial contribution in his memory may be made to The Hartford Wesleyan Church, Building Fund, 595 Franklin Ave, Hartford, CT 06114
WINTER NOTICE
If the winter weather is bad, check Channel 22 and 40 for cancellations. (Also WWLP.com & WWGB.com)
This applies for church and mid-week activities.
Millien Robbins
1942 – 2006
SPRINGFIELD - Millien "Lee" Robbins, 63, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, January 1, 2006.
Born in Springfield, the daughter of Herbert and Jeannette (Nadeau) Thomas, Lee was a long time resident of Springfield and a member of the Heritage Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her daughter Debbie Santucci and leaves her son Robert Santucci of Hampden; five daughters, M. Lynn Peterson of Effort, PA, Tina Smith of Springfield, Donna Leary of Granby, Robin Pelletier of Springfield and Tracy Jimenez of Westfield; two brothers, Curtis Thomas of Charleston, SC and Keith Thomas of No. Charleston, SC; sixteen grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and several close friends. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society 31 Capital Dr, West Spfld, MA 01189. To sign the online register book please visit - www.nowakfuneral.com Published in The Republican on 1/4/2006
SUNDAY SCHOOL
Sunday School begins each week at 9:45am with a short opening in the sanctuary with our Superintendent Margaret MacDonald.
We are still looking for a teacher for the teens
In December we had a mitten and scarf tree. We were able to deliver over 40 items to the KensingtonElementary school. They were extremely grateful.
Upcoming –
I am pleased to announce the marriage of my daughter Claire Denise to Daniel Lewis Felix on June 17, 2006 at the FirstChurch of the Nazarene in West Columbia, SC –Lee
CHURCH NEWS
November 11th there was a Veterans Day Service at the “Kid’s Around the Corner” park.
November 12th we had a teacher’s training and refresher course at 10am
November 19th was our fall clean up day. Thanks to those who filled in and raked leaves while the rest of us attended Pastor’s Keith’s Funeral.
November 20th was our Harvest Home Service (78 attending) dinner. Following the dinner was our Dedication Service with Dr Lindsey.
On November 27th Erik Thivierge was dedicated, and a reminder for us all to rededicate our lives to our Lord and His Service.
December 18th was the Children’s Church Christmas play with the SWC Choir. 76 attending. Following the service our Christmas Dinner was hosted by the WesleyanaHispanicChurch. The meal was delicious.
Christmas fell on Sunday this year so we only had morning service.
Due to Pastor losing his voice the New Year’s Eve service and party were canceled.
On January 8th we were inspired by a visit from Randall and Luda Ford (and Eliana) from Chosen People Ministries.
