Monthly Newsletter - January 2012

Monthly Newsletter - January 2012 ~

CHRIST CHURCH

in collaboration with

The Community YMCA

and other

cooperating churches

invites you to attend the

Eleventh Annual Breakfast

celebrating the life of

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Monday,

January 16

8 AM at

The Drexelbrook

$20 per Adult

$10 per Student

(18 and younger)

Our congregation is pleased to be a partner again in sponsoring this local observance of Dr. King’s legacy. Wouldn’t it we wonderful if we filled three or four tables representing our Church.

Guest Speaker

Student Essay Presentations plus

Special Music & Service Opportunities

THE FIRST

BRUNCH

OF 2011

SUNDAY - JAN. 15

featuring:

Scrambled Eggs,

Sausage, Hashbrowns,

Pancakes, Fruit

& Beverage

plus

A Bake Sale

Use the sign-up

sheet on the Bulletin Board or call

(610) 352-1610 to

make a reservation.

Donation at the door requested.

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INVITE SOMEONE

TO COME TO

CHURCH WITH

YOU IN

JANUARY

ONE OF OUR MOST

IMPORTANT MINISTRIES IS

FEAST INCARNATE.

It is our providing a meal to more than

100 children and adults

HIV or living with AIDS.

OUR NEXT TURN

TO SERVE THIS MEAL IS

TUESDAY - JAN 3.

If you would like to contribute to the cost

of the purchase of food (total amount is $200)

please look for the offering plate in

the Gathering Place

Sundays, January 1& 8. Thank you.

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The first

NEW MEMBERS GROUP

for 2012 will start

SUNDAY, JAN 8

at 9:15 am in the

Gathering Place

Who do you know looking for a church home?

Give them an encouraging word !

TWO CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGS IN JANUARY

Circle the dates on your calendar !

SUNDAY - JANUARY 8

11:30 AM

The purpose of this meeting is

to adopt a budget

for 2012.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 22

11:30 AM

Annual Meeting of the Congregation

President Harry Hardee, Jr. to present the

“State of The Church”.

- Election of

Church Council Members -

WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT that 91 years after this congregation was organized we’d still be here witnessing for the Gospel at the beginning of 2012? A lot of time has passed, a lot of people have come through our doors, and a lot of ministry provided. We have no reason but to think the past is prologue. God still has a mission and message for us in the days to come. Let us commit ourselves anew to be faithful to His purpose for us.

EACH SUNDAY IN JANUARY will provide the opportunity for each of us to express the importance of God in our lives. That’s what worship is all about . . . giving God the praise and honor that reflects the place He holds in our hearts. Join us each Lord’s Day at 8:15 and 10:30AM for worship.

Christmas, 2011 at Christ Lutheran Church

SUNDAY SERVICES are conducted at Christ Church regardless of weather conditions. While we do not encourage members to travel at risk of life or limb, those who do make the effort will find others here keeping the vigil. Our thanks to those who make it possible to keep the sidewalks open, parking lot plowed, and who tend to other matters in order for worship to take place regardless of the circumstances.

IT WOULD BE VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE for us to do all that happens at Christ Church each week without a host of volunteers. Sunday thru Saturday, a steady parade of people make their way through our doors offering helping hands . . . from putting together the Sunday bulletins, to making phone calls, preparing the altar for worship, assisting our office manager and church sexton, serving on committees, leading Children’s Church, visiting the homebound, singing in the choir, lending a helping hand with the Upper Darby Food Bank, offering help with Feast Incarnate, working on property matters, and much, much, much more. And did you know that more than 60 people are needed just to maintain our Sunday schedule? It says something about a church when a host of people willingly offer to do a variety of tasks. We are grateful for what this fact represents.

JANUARY is being designated

the month to collect personal items

needed by the residents of the

Life Center of eastern Delaware County.

A special container will be placed in

the Gathering Place to accept your

donations of soap, shampoo,

toothpaste, toothbrushes,

deodordant, wash cloths, etc.

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ALTAR FLOWERS ARE NEEDED

ON THE FOLLOWING DATES:

Sundays, Jan. 15, 29

Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26

March 4, 11, 18, 25

Please call the church office

(610-352-1610)

for information on how you can make possible flowers for a Sunday or two.

Check our webpage for a list of all available

dates for 2012 (www.clcud.org) Thank you.

EVERY CUP OF COFFEE served on Sunday after the second service is made possible by a special donor. We deeply appreciate the support from those who value this special time for fellowship after worship. If you’d like to sponsor a ‘Coffee Hour’ or two during 2012 please call the church office (610-352-1610) with your choice of dates. The cost is $15 per Sunday

___ Mar. 18

___ Mar. 25

___ Apr. 15

___ Apr. 22

___ Apr. 29

___ May 13

___ May 20

___ May 27

___ June 10

___ June 17

___ June 24

___ July 1

___ July 8

___ July 15

___ July 22

___ July 29

___ Aug. 5

___ Aug. 12

___ Aug. 19

___ Aug. 26

___ Sept. 2

___ Sept. 9

___ Sept. 16

___ Sept. 23

___ Sept. 30

___ Oct. 14

___ Oct. 21

___ Oct. 28

___ Nov. 11

___ Nov. 18

___ Nov. 25

___ Dec. 9

___ Dec.16

___ Dec. 23

___ Dec. 30

100 EMPTY

BABY FOOD JARS

are needed by MARCH 1.

Please bring your donations

to the Church Office.

HEARTFELT THANKS is expressed to all who made our celebration of Christmas such an uplifting experience. A host of wonderful people contributed to a variety of ministries. We are grateful for the voices in our choirs, the carolers who visited nearby streets, the teenagers who delivered poinsettias to neighbors, the willing hearts who visited shut-ins and members in the hospital, volunteers who baked cookies, leaders who planned special programs and offered seasonal activities, and the helping hands of many who made certain our building reflected the spirit of the season. Let it be said again and again . . . Thank You . . . Thank you . . . Thank you.

IF YOU ARE NOT RECEIVING email communications from us it is because we do not have your current or correct email address. More and more of our members appreciate receiving important information regarding church life (e.g. funeral notices, etc.) this way. Please send your email address to our email address . . . clcud@libertynet.org.

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Lunch & Lecture Series

A Ministry of The Upper Darby Community Outreach Corp.

Topic: Responsible Gambling

Presenter: Layla Gros - Holcomb Behavioral

Health System

Date: January 27, 2012 (Friday)

Time: 12 N to 2 PM

Place: The Chapel at

Christ Lutheran Community Church

7240 Walnut St. Upper Darby, PA

Note: Registration Required. Sign up on the bulletin board at Christ Church or Anna’s Place

or call Rev. Myra Rouse, 610-352-1610.

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WE HAVE COME TO APPRECIATE the music ministry of our Choir Sunday by Sunday. Their anthems and music at other special times have lifted our worship experiences. It is not uncommon to hear an ‘Amen” after they sing, as an affirmation of the truth proclaimed in their music. Folks who would like to participate are encouraged to speak with Tony Watts, our Choir Director. He is always happy to talk with adults and teenagers who love to sing. The ability to read music is not necessary. Why not express your interest to Tony this Sunday.

DID YOU KNOW a number of parking spaces are available on our lot for use during the week ? Winter is here and our lot provides a convenient place to leave your vehicle during the day or night. Spread the word to folks you know who might appreciate having a place to park for a modest donation. For more information on our parking lot please check with the church office. (610-352-1610)

AMONG THE RESOLUTIONS you could make for the year 2010 are to pray for Christ Church and the way it shares God’s love with all people. Much of what we do is the result of prayers offered on a daily basis that God will work effectively through those who enter our doors.

OUR AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

IS ACCEPTING

REGISTRATIONS FOR

SECOND SEMESTER

SIGN UP NOW !

CALL 610-352-7037

IT’S NOT TOO EARLY to be thinking about the 19th Summer of our Day Camp Ministry. High School students are needed to serve on the staff assisting college students and teacher/mentors. Teenagers interested in being considered for the nine week paid positions should speak to Pastor David by the end of the month. The hiring process begins in February.

THOSE WHO COUNT OUR OFFERINGS request that folks contributing by check please put their new 2012 envelope number on the memo line. It is most helpful to the tellers in making certain proper credit is given. Thank you for your cooperation with this important matter.

AT THE DECEMBER MEETING of Church Council, members of our elected leadership regretfully received the resignation of Harry Hardee, President of the Congregation. Harry’s resignation will be effective at the end of January. Gratitude was expressed at the meeting for Harry’s commitment to Christ Church and the many ways he has invested in our ministry. His career is making increasing demands on time available to give of service although he will remain active in our Sunday worship as a Deacon, Lesson Reader, and Usher. Council will be electing a new president at its meeting in February.

BY NOW ALL MEMBERS should have received January offering envelopes under the new system adopted by Church Council. Each month the mail will bring to your home the offering envelopes for that period. Included will be envelopes for the Kitchen Improvement Fund and Debt Reduction. We made good progress with our Debt Reduction effort in 2011 (see report elsewhere about the total amount given). Our Debt Reduction offering will still be received as a separate offering on the Sunday designated. Please note there is also an envelope provided for your use to mail offerings on the Sundays you cannot be in worship. Any questions regarding this change should be directed to Gladys Collins, our Financial Secretary. Her home phone is 610-352-5938.

SINCE SEPTEMBER the children and teenagers of our congregation have benefitted from a new educational ministry we call CHILDREN’S CHURCH. It meets during the second worship hour Sunday mornings at 10:30 AM in the Chapel. Our thanks to Sharon White who has assumed the role fo Director, and to the many adult volunteers who take a turn providing leadership. We also salute our middle and high school teenagers who provide valuable assistance from the Opening Assembly to closing.

WE HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED that Christ Church was included in the will of Ruby Michael. As her estate is being distributed, our congregation will be on the receiving end of her generosity. How grateful we are to those who think of this church when preparing their will or assigning assets from their estate. Our history includes a number of significant gifts that have sustained our ministry or made possible improvements to our property we otherwise could not have undertaken. Upon receipt of Ruby’s advanced planning, Church Council will decide its distribution.

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For Your Information . . .

Special Offerings Received in 2011

Kitchen Improvement Fund $ 4,848

Debt Reduction $ 27,132

Feast Incarnate $ 1,164

Memorial Fund $ 8,706

Change for Church jars $ 219

Thank you for your special gifts

in addition to weekly offerings.

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EACH SUNDAY IN 2012

we need to receive

$6, 012

in offerings to meet our budget.

Your faithful support with your offering envelopes

and special gifts makes it possible for us

to do the Lord’s work.

Thank you for sending your offerings in the mail

on the Sundays you cannot be present

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Christ Lutheran Church & Pathways PA Invite You To

Get Your Taxes Done For Free !

Dates: February 6, 13, 20

Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Location: 7240 Walnut St., Upper Darby, PA 19082

Pathways PS’s Free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance offers:

Certified tax preparers to maximize your refund

Free e-filing of federal and state returns

Fast refunds through direct deposit to bank or

prepaid debit card accounts.

US Savings Bonds can be purchased by checking

a box on your tax form.

Taxpayers MUST bring all necessary identification and required

tax statements for taxpayer, spouse and dependents.

Need a bank account or prepaid debit card?

Open one here today !

To schedule an appointment or receive

further information, call 610-352-1610.

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The Christ Lutheran Community Outreach Corp. was recently selected by SEE YOUR IMPACT, a social media network, for the purpose of giving people an opportunity to support three of our important services to the community. Our English Language Learners Classes, After School Program and Summer Day Camp, can now receive donations on-line.

Google “SEE YOUR IMPACT” and learn more of this revolutionary way to help others. 100% of every gift (tax deductible) goes to making an investment in someone’s life. Gifts start at $10.

Please share this information with people you work with- neighbors - friends. Stories are provided each donor about the people they are helping.

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EVERY SUNDAY

10 AM - Breakfast in the Booker Room

10:30 AM - Assembly in the Chapel

Nursery Care provided for children under 2 years of age.

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CHRIST CHURCH HAS BECOME a much requested place for weddings in recent years. The calendar for 2011 and 2012 has several confirmed dates. Should you know of a couple seeking a place to celebrate their wedding day, do not hesitate to suggest our church. Our Wedding Coordinator and church staff do all they can to make such a significant moment memorable. For more information call the church office.

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR PARTICIPATION IN

THE UPPER DARBY FOOD CENTER

Help Us Feed Those Who Need Food in Our Community !

Needed: peanut butter, jelly, canned fruits & vegetables, rice, pasta, sauces, macaroni, cereal, tuna, spam, soups, canned stew, instant potatoes, jello & pudding mixes, pancake mix, syrup, juice, coffee, tea bags, baked beans, macaroni & cheese, canned ravioli, hot cereal, crackers.

(Please check expiration dates before placing in the special box in the

Gathering Place. Thank You.)

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LET’S PLAY BINGO !

WIN

GIFT CARD

PRIZES !!

FRIDAY - Jan 27

in Wagner Hall

Doors Open: 6:30 pm

Games Begin: 7:00 pm

Food ! Raffles !! 50/50 !!!

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IT IS ALWAYS A JOY when parents turn our way to have children baptized. The Lutheran Church encourages baptisms of infants within the first three months of birth. To assist parents and godparents in better understanding their role regarding the promises made at baptism of a child, Christ Church provides a special conference for parents and godparents. This session is most helpful in explaining the meaning of The Sacrament and how our congregation is eager to help parents provide a nurturing environment in which their child can grow in faith. Should you know of folks who desire to have their child baptized, please encourage them to call the church office, 610-352-1610

CHANGE FOR CHURCH

Your extra pocket change will be added to that of others insupport of our annual budget !

Please return your filled jar/can to the special container in the Gathering Place.

Empty jars are available for you to take home.

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PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

A prayer shawl is a hand-knitted or crocheted shawl made with prayer for someone going through a transition. Are you or someone you know in need of prayer and tangible reassurance that others are praying for you/him/her?

Talk with the Parish Nurse at 610-352-7008 about a Prayer Shawl.

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IT’S A FACT . . . at least 5 more people would be in church each Sunday if they had a ride. We have a number of members who would like to worship but need transportation. If you would care to assist in this way every now and then please check with Mary Ellen Dykhouse by calling 610-352-1610. Mary Ellen will gladly make arrangements for you to bring someone to church on a Sunday morning.

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IF YOU ARE NOT RECEIVING email communications from us it is because we do not have your current or correct email address. More and more of our members appreciate receiving important information regarding church life (e.g. funeral notices, etc) this way. Please send your email address to our email address . . . clcud@libertynet.org Thank you.

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BRING YOUR

Newspapers

Junk Mail

Catalogs

to Church Sunday !!

Let’s all recycle using the green & yellow container on the parking lot !!

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WE ARE PLEASED to report a good number of people have responded to the opportunity to have their offerings sent to Christ Church via electronic transfer of funds. The program called SIMPLY GIVING is much appreciated by those who have chosen this option for making contributions in support of our ministries. If you misplaced the information sent to your home you may request a new sign-up form by calling Gladys Collins, our Financial Secretary at (610) 352-5938.

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NOTE: PHILABUNDANCE DOES NOT COME WHEN TEMP IS BELOW 32*

IF IN DOUBT - CALL 215-220-1920