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CHRIST’S UNITED’S NEWS & VIEWS JUNE 2016

PASTOR’S PARAGRAPHS

GIVING THANKS TO GOD IN FAITH AND LOVE

Today, as always, is a time to prayerfully give thanks to God: for the gift of our lives and relationships; for the gift of creation and the abundance of God’s provisions; for the gift of faith and the church; and for the good news of Jesus and the grace he brings. We bear the image of God in our very being; we live amidst the overflowing generosity of God’s Spirit; we walk in the presence of the risen Jesus; and we are led eternally into God’s promise and hope. In short, we live because of God; therefore, living is an expression of thanksgiving as our lives bear witness to God in all things and all times. Giving thanks to God constantly and continuously acknowledges that we do not and cannot control or dictate definitively our destiny. Our lives and our future are faithfully embraced by God’s love; we are and will be because God is. Interestingly, God’s will allows us to live in the freedom of His love. The choices we make shape the manner in which we live within God’s loving care; good choices on our part gain for us no increased favor from God, and bad choices do not egregiously and eternally stand between us and God. Unfortunately, many of the choices we have made and sadly continue to make within the freedom of God’s love misrepresent our true relationship to and with God because of the sinful influence of idolatry. Living with this freedom granted by God, we have fallen short of God’s glory in two idolatrous ways: first, humanity, through the ages, has demonstrated a capacity to favor gods (idols) that will support a desire for possessions, control and comfort apart from the guidance of God’s Spirit, and second, has fatefully come to believe that human thoughts and actions in and of themselves can definitively and ultimately influence the manner in which God will eternally relate to us. Even in this time of Christ, the twin idolatries of self-glorification and self-righteousness seem alive and well. And because of these

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erroneous ways of understanding our relationship to and with God in Christ, our understanding of thanksgiving has been skewed. Too shallowly and all too often, thanksgiving is a response offered only when things are perceived to be going “well.” As St. Paul counsels, thanksgiving to God is to happen in all things, at all times, and in all places because everything exists and happens in the presence of Jesus, the risen Lord of all. Therefore, thanksgiving is a complete and total orientation before God even in the face of the disappointing and dismaying effects of idolatrous ideas and behaviors. Thanksgiving before God acknowledges the gifts that we are and have, and reflects the grace we have received and continue to receive in Christ which confirms for us that God will not give up on us. In Christ, we know that God’s love and care for us is eternal regardless of our shortcomings. We thank God in plenty and in want, in “good” and in “bad” times, for there is no time or existence outside of God’s love for the world in Christ. Through grace, we come to know that God’s love for us is eternal. Through the Spirit of love, God seeks to guide and direct our ways into the way of peace. From these, we are moved to give thanks. And where and when our thoughts and actions run contrary to God’s will, the presence of Christ draws us to the way of truth and life. God loves us eternally; but God does not always like what we are about or up to. But thanks be to God that we are not left to our own desires and wants, or remain lost to our straying ways forever. Because God loves us and wills to guide our lives into faithfulness through Christ, our thanksgiving to God inherently moves us to call upon God to show us opportunities for service. Having received the gift of life and the gift of faith, we inquire of God of the ways we may live these gifts as Christians and as the church. How shall we live our thanksgiving in our homes, in our workplaces, in our communities, in our churches and on the “road?” To whom does God want us to share a word of hope? To whom shall we give a helping hand? Whom will we welcome into our care? As we ourselves are received by grace into God’s eternal love, may we serve with mercy those to whom God brings before us. A kind word here, a gentle assist there; a word of encouragement now, a supportive hand then: thanksgiving in action. As we open ourselves to give thanks to God, God opens ways for us to serve and share. --Pastor John

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The greatest gift I ever had Came from God; I call him Dad!

~Author Unknown

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BIBLE STUDIES

Bible studies resume on the regular schedule, with them taking place at Christ’s United on the following dates:

10:30 A.M. 7:00 P.M. June 6 June 8 June 20 June 22 June 27 June 29

COMMUNITY Vacation bible school

When: June 12-June 16 6:00-7:15 p.m. Where: Christ’s United Lutheran Church Who: All children ages 3 years through 4th grade Older teens and adults are needed to help!

Theme: The “I Am” sayings in John’s Gospel June 12 – I am the Light of the World (John 8:12) June 13 – I am the Bread of Life (John 6:35) June 14 – I am the Vine (John 15:5) June 15 – I am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) June 16 – I am the Way and the Truth and the Life (John 14:6)

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Spring-excitement has entered my body, my mind, the yard! Love vibes everywhere, bees buzz in every color of blossom. Winter stillness ceased, idle grass is greening, trees are leafing. The hummingbirds and geckos are back, renewed life abounds. Warmth magics the earth, little sweet-song birds chirp and fly in a playground of budding branches with a deep blue sky elixir... Earlier dawns light us awake with artful serenades of pink clouds; Gorgeous late-afternoon sunshine is Octoberesque and calming but with air golden'd by warming fervor, not Fall's cooling swelter. Evening breezes' perfume is heaven, passion, newborn blooms. We've been waiting all winter for open windows—yay & yippee!

~Terri Guillemets, "Springtime Distractions," 2016

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VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL REGISTRATION

CHRIST’S UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH

AND

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH

JUNE 12 – 16 6:00 – 7:15 PM

AT CHRIST’S UNITED LUTHERAN

CHILD’S NAME: ____________________________ BIRTH DATE: ____________

GRADE LEVEL FOR FALL 2016 (if applicable): _________

PARENTS/GUARDIANS NAMES: _________________________________________

ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________

HOME PHONE: _________________ CELL PHONE: _______________________

CHURCH AFFILIATION: _______________________________________________

HEALTH CONCERNS: _________________________________________________

FOOD/ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGIES: ____________________________________

EMERGENCY CONTACT: NAME AND PHONE _______________________________

OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS ATTENDING VBS: _______________________________

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MULTI FAMILY YARD SALE

Rent a spot to have your own Yard Sale at the church on June 11 starting at 7:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Table rentals benefit Children’s Church. Advertising is included with the table rental. Rent 1 table for $12.00, 2 tables for $20.00 and each additional table $5.00. Please sign up by May 29 to rent your tables. Setup Thursday and/or Friday from 4 to 8 pm. Everyone is responsible to man their own table the day of the yard sale.

The church will provide a food stand. If you don’t want to take the remainder of your items with you after the sale is over, you can donate them to the church to use at the Winter Yard Sale. Just repack your items and we’ll take care of the rest. If you don’t want to have a stand, come anyway to join us for the fun and do some shopping. If you have any questions please contact Judy Moyer, Teresa Shuck, Wanda Stamm or Idella Zimmerman.

SPRING THEME EVENT

This year our Spring Theme Event will be in the form of an Ice Cream Social on June 11 beginning at 6:00 p.m. We will not be serving a meal, but will have homemade ice cream. Interested members with ice cream makers are asked to bring their homemade ice cream to share. The Inreach Ministry is also working on some games to be played at the event. Questions? Talk to a member of the Inreach Ministry committee.

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Isn't it interesting that the same people who laugh at science fiction

listen to weather forecasts and economists? ~Kelvin Throop III

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WEST END FAIR

The West End Fair is only a few weeks away. So, we are going to have a meeting on Monday, June 6, at 7:00 p.m. for all those interested in helping in any way with our food stand at the fair. Much help will be needed as well as your ideas and comments to make this great fundraiser a success. For more information about the meeting or our fair stand, talk to Kim Blyler.

Sewing Days

Christ’s United’s morning Sewing Circle meets monthly to lovingly craft quilts, that are then donated through the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to Lutheran World Relief for disbursement to refugees and people in need around the world.

You are invited to join our awesome quilting ladies and help them create more of their beautiful and practical quilts. No experience? No experience is necessary to help and projects are available to be taken home and sewn. And the fellowship is great, too! Come and join us!

Our next workday is scheduled for Tuesday, June 21, 8:30-10:30. Anyone is welcome to join us.

If you would like more information, talk to Judy Mecouch or Georgetta Bowes.

NOTE! The ladies can always use material to use for the quilts. If you have material left over from sewing projects, old curtains, sheets, etc. bring it in for the ladies to use. And don’t throw out that old mattress pad. Bring it to the church and we can use it for filler for the quilts. It will help to keep someone warm when it is distributed by LWR. Every piece helps.

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It sounds so much better to say, “Come to church,” than “Go to church.”

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Looking Ahead

August 3-9– West End Fair

August 27 – Corn Roast September 11 – Fall Kickoff October 2 – Harvest Home/Blanket Sunday/Homecoming

October 16 – Senior Member Dinner November 5 – Potpie Supper December 8-10 – Christkindl Market

Mark your calendars now and watch for more information on these events as it becomes available.

YOUTH NEWS

Our church family congratulates Elizabeth Shuck who was confirmed on Sunday, May 22. May God bless you, Elizabeth, as you continue on the faith journey, a journey that began at baptism.

REMINDER

The next newsletter will be a combined July/August issue. Please have all Pertinent information for those two months that is to be included in the newsletter into the office by June 23.

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COUNCIL COMMUNIQUE

May 24, 2016

Communication to the Congregation from Council:

The Children’s Sunday School teachers are holding a yard sale for Saturday, June 11 from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Table rentals will benefit the Children’s Church. They ask that interested vendors sign up by Sunday, May 29. Details about rental fees and other yard sale information may be forwarded to Judy Moyer, Teresa Shuck, Idella Zimmerman or Wanda Stamm

Vacation Bible School (VBS) is planned to be held at our church from

Sunday, June 12 thorough Thursday, June 16. Pastor John is looking for volunteers. Please contact him ASAP if you are interested in helping.

An ice cream social will be held on Saturday, June 11, starting at 6:00

p.m. This will be a social and dessert event, not a meal. If you are interested in supplying homemade ice cream, please contact Janice Wagner.

TrEASURER’S REPORT

As of May 24,2016

Actual Budgeted Income for month $12,662.00 $10,521.00 Expenses for month $5,195.00 $10,398.00 Difference $7,467.00 Actual Budgeted Income Year-to-date $77,615.00 $63,562.00 Expenses Year-to-date $69,104.00 $62,824.00 Difference $8,511.00

Parking Lot Loan Balance $14,508.86 Heating System Balance $1,824.94

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Synod Assembly

The 29th Annual Assembly of the Upper Susquehanna Synod will be held at Susquehanna University on June 17-18, 2016. The theme of this year’s assembly is “Freed and Renewed in Christ.” Barry Spangler and Amy Shuck will serve as our lay representatives. Some highlights:

•! The election of the synod’s third bishop. •! Bible Study with The Rev. Dr. Raymond Pickett from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. •! Greetings from our Churchwide Representative, Mr. Carlos Peña, vice president of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. •! The ordination of at least one candidate to the Office of Word and Sacrament. •! Dinner and entertainment featuring “The Boyz,” a choral ensemble. •! Workshops

Singers Needed for Assembly Choir: You are invited to sing as part of the choir that will provide musical leadership for the Eucharist on Saturday, June 18, at 10:15 a.m. in Weber Chapel Auditorium at SU. In addition to leading the liturgy and hymns, the choir will prepare special music for the service. Adult and high school singers who would like to sing in the Assembly Choir should have some choral experience in church and/or school. Being able to read music is helpful but not required. Two rehearsals are scheduled for Sunday afternoons, May 22, and June 5, from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. in the chapel of Zion, Sunbury. A “warm-up” rehearsal will take place at the Horn Chapel at 9:30 a.m. prior to the service. If you plan to sing in the choir, please contact David Reier by May 16, 2016, at dreier@ptd.net. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact Reier at 570-847-3435. Pages Needed for Synod Assembly: Calling all youth (who have completed at least sixth grade), college students, and seminarians! The 2016 USS Synod Assembly is looking for pages. You’ll be needed on Friday and Saturday, June 17-18, from 7:45 a.m. until the end of the day. Responsibilities include handing out papers, bulletins, and other materials as well as serving as ushers for worship and counting votes when asked. All pages receive meals and a free T-shirt! If you have interested youth, please send their names to brenda@usselca.org.

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Live Tweet from Upper Susquehanna Synod Assembly: We will also live “tweet” from our synod assembly. This year, we invite others to also tweet from the assembly and use this hashtag: #ussynod16. If you’d like to see what is happening at assembly in June, search for the Twitter hashtag or visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/usselca.

Upper Susquehanna Synodical Women's Organization

LETTER OF CALL TO: Congregational/Inter-Congregational Unit Presidents/Contacts, Participants of the Upper Susquehanna Synodical Women's Organization From: Stephanie Lewis, USSWO President

You are invited to attend the Twenty-Ninth Annual Convention of the Women of the ELCA, Upper Susquehanna Synod, July 23, 2016 at Camp Mount Luther, Mifflinburg, PA. Please plan to be present for this one-day convention as it brings an excellent opportunity for you to meet your sisters from neighboring churches and become informed about the workings of the Women of the ELCA. CONVENTION THEME: “Winds of Change” SCRIPTURE TEXT: John 3:8 CONVENTION HYMN: “Spirit of Gentleness” REGISTRATION: A registration form can be obtained from the church office and may be copied for additional registrations. I encourage you to bring several (many) women from your unit to this one-day convention. I would like to encourage participation especially by women under the age of 40. We anticipate a day of worship, business and Workshops to uplift us in the name of Christ. Every person who attends convention must pay a registration fee which help to cover the cost of printed materials and other items such as rental fees for Camp Mount Luther, refreshments, lunch, insurance and honorariums which are necessary to carry out a convention. Please note that this year we are reducing the cost for families to attend. A mother/daughter will pay $60 instead of $80. If there is more than one daughter, the second and each subsequent daughter will pay $10 for registration. Questions? Talk to Judy Mecouch.

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION

ALTAR FLOWERS The 2016 altar flower chart is on the bulletin board outside of the sanctuary for use by anyone wishing to provide flowers for a service next year. Dates that are still available to sponsor altar flowers this year are: July 17 & 31; September 4; December 11. The cost of the flowers is $35.00 per week and is payable to the church. FREE ENERGY CREDIT

There is a free energy credit available to the church. If you want help to lower the church's electric bill, and save money on your own electric bill contact Greg Shuck for details.

REIMBURSEMENT UPDATE

Please talk to Dianne Shuck, Al Pantaleo for information on how to obtain a reimbursement for expenses you may have for the church.

COFFEE CANS NEEDED We are in need of coffee cans to be used to send altar flowers home following a worship service. If you have any to spare, please drop them off at the kitchen or in the office.

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT

We are looking for volunteers to fill the following positions: 1. Baby News Correspondent

When a new baby is born to a member of the congregation, the responsibility of the baby news correspondent is to contact the family and get “vital statistics” and

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then write a short article for the newsletter. Talk to Margie if you would like to tackle this position.

2. Greeters, Lay Readers, Communion Assistants, Ushers and Sound System Operators. Our list of people willing to do these jobs keeps dwindling. Will you help? Sign up on the attached “volunteer form” and drop them on Margie’s desk or put them in the offering plate. 3. Someone to sharpen pencils and replenish communion cards and comment cards in the sanctuary. COMMUNIONS Communions for all confirmed members must be recorded in the parish register annually. If you do not commune on a regular basis, we ask that you fill out a communion record card (one per year is all we need) so we know you have communed. The cards are located in the racks on the back of the pews. Cards may be put in the offering plate or handed to an usher.

MEMORABILIA

The following memorabilia items are still available for anyone interested in purchasing anything:

Wooden Miniatures of the Church - $10.00 Church Prints - $20.00

Blankets - $10.00 Christmas Cards - $10.00

12 cards per box feature a winter picture of the church

Talk to Bev Catherman if you have questions about, or would like to purchase, any of these items.

INFORMANTS WANTED

We like to publish news about our members in the newsletter, but we need your help to do so. If you know of interesting information about any of our members (youth or adult), i.e. an award or recognition, a funny tale or exciting adventure, please let Margie know about it so we can include it in an issue of Christ’s United’s News & Views. DO WE HAVE YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS?

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If you have an e-mail address that you have never given to us or if it has changed,

please fill out the following and drop it off on Margie’s desk or give her a call.

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Name________________________________________________________________ E-Mail Address_________________________________________ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HAVE A FAVORITE HYMN?

Over the past few years, some of you have been requesting favorite hymns and gospel songs and for that we give many thanks. Because of U.S. copyright laws, we do not have permission to reproduce or copy all of our favorites. You may choose selections from the following hymnals: Evangelical Lutheran Worship (ELW), Lutheran Book of Worship (LBW) and With One Voice (WOV). We are also permitted to use hymns that are in the “Public Domain”. It’s all very complicated. So, keep your suggestions coming and we will be happy to sort out and use all of your suggestions. Give any requests to Gary Hackenberg, Margie or Pastor John. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hymn Request ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SOCIAL/FELLOWSHIP REQUEST

If you have any ideas or suggestions for social/fellowship activities, drop a note on Margie’s desk. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Social/Fellowship Events:

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PRAYER CHAIN

The Prayer Chain is a group of men and women of Christ’s United who pray for the concerns and requests of Christ’s United’s members and friends. Someone in need of

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prayer calls the church office and requests to be put on the Prayer Chain. Each member of the Prayer Chain then receives either a phone call or an email notifying them of a prayer request. The prayer chain member receiving the phone call then calls one other person and so on down the list. Those notified by email do not have to pass it on. Would you be willing to pray for someone in need? It is reassuring to know that you are supported by the prayers of others and not alone with your concern. If you would like to be a member of the Prayer Chain, fill out the following and put it in the offering plate or on Margie’s desk. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Prayer Chain Calling List I would like to be included on the prayer chain calling list. Name____________________________________ Telephone Number__________________________ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BUILDING & GROUND NEEDS

Do you know of any physical problems (or potential problems) that should be addressed by our property committee? Your insight is important. Maybe you have seen something that no one else has noticed yet. You can talk to Pastor John, any council member or Margie if you know of something that needs attention, or fill out the following and put it on Margie’s desk or in the offering plate. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Building & Ground Needs: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ONGOING COLLECTIONS

The Shriners

Can Tabs (give tabs to Maurice Clouser)

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NEWS OF MEMBERS & FRIENDS

Birthdays

1 – Bonnie Greeney Angela Heimbach 3 – Denver Clouser Michael Keister 4 – Ryan Dreese Randy Harvey Dianne Shuck 5 – Wanda Stamm 8 – Tony Masterson Carol Miller Brittany Shuck 10 – Janet Hileman 11 – Spencer Harvey Dustin Kline Latisha Spigelmyer Jeromy Stamm Stella Walters 12 – Rebecca Welker 13 – Wendy Vest

14 – Bradley Hendricks Bryan Hendricks 16 – Jayden Zimmerman 17 – Ruth Diamond Karen Troutman 18 – Sherri Klauger Myron Sampsell 19 – Nathan Harvey Jacob Marshall Darlene Ulrich 22 – Dion Kline Susannah Rayburn 23 – Kelli Baker 25 – Tom Watters Debra Woodling 29 – Douglas Gemberling Kayla Kahler Jim Sanders 30 – Ryan Emery Lindsey Snyder

Anniversaries 2 – Terry & Sally Kline (1979) Lee & Kathy Spangler (1979) 3 – Richard & Alice Reitz (1978) 4 – Kevin & Jonna Zimmerman (1983) 8 – Bob & Eve Rantz (1968) 11 – Tim & Tiffany Spencer (2011) 15 – Doug & Pearl Gemberling (2002) 19 – Bob & Doris Lukens (1960) 20 – Maurice & Barbara Clouser (1959)

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David & Linda Swartz (1987) 24 – Tom & Bonnie Greeney (1988) Sam & Ethel Schnure (1961) Richard & Karen Troutman (1972) 25 – Joe & Stacey Veley (1988) 26 – Al & Sue Pantaleo (1965)

Remember In Thought and Prayer

Please help us keep our prayer list current by letting us know of any names that should be added or

removed

Our Members Gailyn Baker Jim & Florence Boop Vickie Kahler Shirley Kerstetter Max Miller Diane Reamer Alice Reitz Teresa Shuck Chuck Spurr Dave Swartz Stacey Veley Arletta Zimmerman

Our Friends & Relatives Leslie Cooper Mike Furgison Jason, Stacie & James Grohman Bella Guisewite Dave Jacka Linda Katherman Philynd Lechinsky Gerald & Thelma (Liz) Lloyd Jeanne McGlaughlin Sue Mecouch Helen Metz Pat & Candy Mitchell Vicki Newman Ruth & Donald Raker Linda Ruder Beverly Schreffler Esther Shetler Joel Templin Mark Troup Ron Weaner David Woods

Our Shut-Ins Carolyn Bowersox Barbara Grimooris Leona Hackenberg Shirley Kerstetter Pat Korman Betty Lauf

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Eugene Phillips Harold ‘Hap’ Sampsell Myron ‘Mick’ Sampsell Richard Schnure Connie Wagner Betty Wallace Caroline Wenrick Debra Wilson The Men and Women Serving In the Military Adam Gemberling Brandi Gemberling Michael Spurr

In an effort to keep our prayer current, we are going to clear the current list on a quarterly basis. New lists will begin in January, April, July, and October. If you want to continue an existing prayer request or have a new prayer concern, please contact Margie.

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LIFE LESSONS

Generally speaking, you aren’t learning much when your mouth is moving.

There comes a time when you should stop expecting other people to make a big deal about your birthday. That time is age 11.

There's a fine line between genius and insanity

Love may be blind, but marriage is a real eye-opener.

Shopping tip: You can get shoes for 85 cents at the bowling alley.

Some days you are the bug, some days you are the windshield.

No matter what happens, somebody will find a way to take it too seriously.

People who want to share their religious views with you almost never want you to share yours with them.

Success always occurs in private, and failure in full view.

The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers.

The only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth.

The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it in your pocket.

The severity of the itch is proportional to the reach.

The main accomplishment of almost all organized protests is to annoy people who are not in them.

Never lick a steak knife

Never miss a good chance to shut up.

Money can’t buy happiness, but it sure makes misery easier to live with.

Most of us go to our grave with our music still inside of us.

If you had to identify, in one word, the reason why the human race has not achieved, and never will achieve, its full potential, that word would be "meetings".

If it wasn't for the last minute, nothing would get done.

If at first you don't succeed ...... skydiving isn't for you.

Happiness is a choice

Experience is something you don’t get until just after you need it.

Blessed are they who can laugh at themselves for they shall never cease to be amused.

Bills travel through the mail at twice the speed of checks.

And when God, who created the entire universe with all of its glories, decides to deliver a message to humanity, He WILL NOT use, as His messenger, a person on cable TV with a bad hairstyle.

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355 Mt. Luther Lane, Mifflinburg, PA 17844 Telephone (570) 922-1587 Fax (570) 922-1118

E-mail: cml@campmountluther.org

Registrations Still Being Accepted We are gearing up for our summer camping season for 2016 and are still accepting registrations for all programs. Late fees will begin to be accessed on June 2, 2016, so register soon to avoid the late fees! Some highlights of programs in July and August include:

time on the Ottawa River kayaking and rafting.

family! campers.

-Teen, our traditional program for that age group. Intermediates celebrating different holidays and attending

classic camp. night and do nighttime activities.

and get certified in scuba diving. amp for younger campers to come and experience Mount

Luther during the day. overnight camping experience during their

week here. climb, whitewater raft, and bike.

ntern for our senior high campers who want to learn what it’s like to be on staff. For more information, visit our website. This year’s theme at Mount Luther is “La Frontera,” exploring how Jesus Meets Us, including in the neighbor, on the cross, in La Frontera, and in the feast. Summer Staff Hired for 2016 Our summer ministry team is hired and ready to begin their staff training later this month. Here is who you can expect to see in 2016:

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Executive Director: Chad Hershberger, Mifflinburg* Assistant Director: Charlene Rineer, Lewisburg* Chaplain to Staff: Jim Bricker, McAlisterville* Director of Fun: Ryan Fitch, New Berlin* Director of TLC: Olivia Tunall, Lewistown* Head Lifeguard: Ty Turner, Lewisburg* Craft Director: Sylvia Kohl, Sunbury Office Manager: Linda Aurand, Mazeppa* Site Manager: Tom Watters, Mifflinburg* Counselors Tara Barnard, Millerstown*; Tori Callahan, Bloomsburg; James Gates, Fairport, NY*; Lindsey Hartman, Turbotville*; Anne Harshbarger, Belleville; Phoebe Roth, Annandale, NJ*; Noah Roux, Turbotville; Staci Shoemaker, Montoursville; Jonah Waldkoenig, Gettysburg*; Sean Wither, Williamsport; Zack Zimmerman, Lewistown* Kitchen Staff Hospitality Manager: Toni Gessner, Mifflinburg*; Eric Gessner, Mifflinburg*: Kyle Gessner, Mifflinburg*; Ryan Gessner, Mifflinburg* Returning staff are indicated by a (*) Stay Connected this Summer If you want to stay connected to Mount Luther this summer and find out what is happening during our various programs, we have ways for you to do that! On our Facebook page, you can see updates and pictures from each week. Check those out at www.facebook.com/mountluther.

We also will post updates to our Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/mtluther. You can also view this feed on the homepage of our website at www.campmountluther.org. Daily blogs will be posted at www.campmountluther.wordpress.com and will be shared on our social media pages.

We will try to update daily our Facebook status and pictures, Twitter feed, and blog but please realize that our staff is quite busy and if updates are not posted, it’s because the campers and staff are so busy that they can’t get an update posted.

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And, don’t forget, our daily First Light devotions will continue to be posted each weekday. Check them at www.cmlfaithformation.weebly.com or click the links on our social media pages.

IN THE MAILbag

AUTHORIZED LAY WORSHIP LEADERS A new class for Authorized Lay Worship Leaders will begin in September 2016. The two-year program meets the second Saturday of each month at the Washingtonville Lutheran Church. Classes are taught by seminary professors, college instructors and others. Cost of the program is $1050 plus books. For more information contact Pastor Melody Sell at prmsell2@ptd.net.

LUTHERAN MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKENDS

Attention Married Couples: Thousands of couples have learned that taking some time to “tune-up” their marriages pays huge dividends. Lutheran Marriage Encounter Weekends are designed to strengthen and revitalize marriages whether you have been married a year or 60 years. Registrations are being taken for the two fall Weekends at lovely, hotel-style retreat centers: September 16-18 Weekend at Spruce Lake Retreat Center in the Poconos or October 21-23 at Olmsted Retreat Center in Ludlow, PA. All costs for 2 nights lodging, 5 meals for each of you, and supplies are covered by a $100.00 per couple registration fee plus a confidential contribution of whatever amount you wish that you are given the opportunity to make toward the end of the weekend. To register online, go to: www.GodLovesMarriage.org, or for further information, contact Fred & Julie Schamber, PA Directors, at: fjschamber@comcast.net or 724-325-3166.

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One day, two guys, Joe and Bob, were out fishing. A funeral service passes over the bridge they're fishing by, and Bob takes off his hat and puts it over his heart. He does this until the funeral service passes by. Joe then said "Gee Bob, I didn't know you had it in you!" Bob then replies "It's the least I could do. After all I was married to her for 30 years."

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Community happenings

TRUMPETS OF JOY CONCERT June 4 7:00 p.m. The Trumpets of Joy will be appearing in concert at the Elias Center for the Performing Arts (aka the Historic 1806 Elias Church), 212-214 S 5th St in Mifflinburg on Saturday, June 4 at 7:00 p.m. This group is coming from Aliquppa to minister in music and have been peforming in many states, including Indiana, Ohio, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, Kentucky and throughout Pennsylvania, since it originally formed in 1952. They are a traditional Southern style gospel group. The group now consists of the founder’s son, 3 other original members and a number of second and third generation family members. They released their first CD entitled “Come On Here!” in 2010. Tickets are $10.00 at the door or advance tickets be purchased by mailing a check with SASE to MHRA, 300 Chestnut St., Mifflinburg or at Barb’s Bouquet & Gift Basket, Heritage Printers, Tastecraft Market and Whispering Willow Primitives & Antiques.

~~~

"Healing heat That comforts every bone; Juicy summer fruits, A frosty ice cream cone. Aroma of sizzling meat Grilling on the barbecue, Green lawns and summer flowers, A gazillion fun things to do. Summer shorts and swimsuits, Arms and legs are bare; Summer’s sweet delights Are welcome everywhere!"

~Joanna Fuchs

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NOTES OF APPRECIATION

“Volunteers are gold”. Volunteers are the most valuable commodities in ministry. Without them, nothing would get done in our churches. We are fortunate to have the kind of dedicated people that we do. Do you know anyone who should be given a pat on the back and a “Thank You” for the contributions they make in and around the church? Let Margie know.

THANK YOU TO… …Everybody who helped in any way with the Chicken Barbecue. …All who helped in anyway with the blood drive …The Volunteers who donated their time and energy to help with the spring cleaning of the church grounds, removing the storm windows and planting the geraniums

Dave and Linda Swartz offer thanks to Pastor John and other member of our 4 Bells family who have provided prayers, cards, well wishes, phone calls and visits throughout Dave’s heart surgery and recovery. So far, his recovery is on track and we’re both looking forward to having him back in good health.

~~~

Whoever makes a garden Has never worked alone;

the rain has always found it, The sun has always known;

The wind has blown across it And helped to scatter seeds;

Whoever makes a garden Has all the help he needs.

~Author Unknown

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ALTAR GUILD Sherri Klauger GREETERS 5 – The Roger Dunkle Family 12 – Dianne Shuck 19 – Wanda Stamm 26 – Mary Hassinger LAY READERS 5 - Glenn Spangler 12 – Mike Flickinger 19 – Doug Gemberling 26 – Greg Shuck

SOUND SYSTEM Dave Bickhart

USHERS Dave Bickhart Tom Watters MUSIC PROVIDERS 5 - Paula Christy 12 - Diane Valentine 19 - Dave Swartz 26 – Gary Hackenberg COMMUNION ASSISTANTS 5 - Glenn Spangler 12 – Tom Catherman 19 – Janice Wagner 26 – Greg Shuck

REMINDER YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR FINDING A SUBSTITUTE IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO BE HERE WHEN SCHEDULED. ALTAR GUILD MEMBERS, SOUND SYSTEM OPERATORS & USHERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY SPECIAL SERVICES SCHEDULED DURING THE MONTH.

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If you would like to be added to our list of volunteers to help with one or more of the following positions,

please fill it out and return it to the church office.

USHER

I/we will serve as an usher

Name_____________________________________

Telephone_________________________________

CHILDREN’S CHURCH

I/we will help with children’s

church

Name____________________________________

Telephone________________________________

SOUND SYSTEM OPERATOR

I/we will operate the sound

system

Name_____ _______________________________

Telephone________________________________

ALTAR GUILD

I/we will serve on the altar

guild

Name____________________________________

Telephone________________________________

COMMUNION HELPER

I/we will serve as a

communion helper

Name___________________________________

Telephone_______________________________

GREETERS

I/we will serve as greeters

Name___________________________________

Telephone_______________________________

LAY READER

I/we will serve as a lay reader

Name_____________________________________

Telephone_________________________________

25

Christ’s United Lutheran Church 13765 Old Turnpike Rd Millmont Pa 17845 570-922-1860 church’s e-mail: culc@dejazzd.com pastor’s e-mail:

pastorjohn@4bellschurch.com website: www.4bellschurch.com

Office Hours: Mon-Thu – 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Fri – Closed

STAFF The Congregation ........................................ The Ministers The Rev. John D. Yost ............................................ Pastor Margie Dunkle ................................................ Sec/Asst Tr Dianne Shuck .................................................... Treasurer Janet Hackenberg ...................................................Asst Tr Al Pantaleo ....................................................... Data Entry Tom Catherman ................................................. Custodian Paula Christy & Gary Hackenberg ...................... Organists

Diane Valentine & Karen Zimmerman ................... Pianists

COUNCIL MEMBERS

Officers Lee Spangler, President

Drew Christy, Vice President Barry Spangler, Council Secretary

Ministry Assignments

Facilities/Administration

(deals with property, personnel and stewardship)

Jim Boop, Tom Catherman

Eugene Hassinger

Inreach (focus on ministry

within the congregation)

Greg Shuck Lee Spangler Janet Spurr

Outreach (related to ministry

beyond the congregation)

Drew Christy Dianne Shuck Linda Smith

THE DEADLINE FOR

ARTICLES FOR THE

JULY/AUGUST

NEWSLETTER IS

JUNE 23

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THE M.I.S.S.I.O.N OF CHRIST’S UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH

Meet – we meet each other as sisters and brothers in Christ Invite – we invite and welcome others into the body of Christ Share – we share the good news of Jesus and our gifts with all Support – we support each other as we walk in the ways of Jesus Imagine – we imagine life filled with God’s purpose and grace Offer – we offer ourselves to God through faith, hope and love Nourish – we nourish one another in the Word, by the Spirit

Christ’s United Lutheran Church is a community of faith, gathered, empowered and entrusted with the good news of Jesus Christ to bear witness that we are one body in Christ as together we worship God in all praise and thanksgiving and we serve one another with unconditional love and mercy.

PLEASE CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE… …when a member of your family is sick or is admitted to the hospital, so that visits can be made and the proper people notified. …when your address and phone number is changed, so the church records can be corrected. …when you move—out of town or locally. …when a new baby arrives in your family or in the family of another church member. …when a member of your family leaves home for college or to establish a new residence. …when a new family moves into your neighborhood. …when your class or group plans to have a meeting, so that it can be cleared and placed on the church calendar. …when something good happens to you or your family. …when you feel the church can assist you in any way

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I AM YOUR FLAG

Some people call me Old Glory, others call me the Star Spangled Banner, but whatever they call me, I am your Flag -- the Flag of the United States of America. Something has been bothering me, so I thought I might talk it over with you, because you see, it is about you and me. I remember some time ago people lined up on both sides of the street to watch the parade and, naturally, I was leading every parade, proudly waving in the breeze. When your daddy saw me coming, he immediately removed his hat and placed it against his left shoulder so that his hand was directly over his heart -- remember? What happened? I'm still the same old Flag. Oh, I have a few more stars since you were a boy and a lot more blood has been shed since those parades of long ago. But now I don't feel as proud as I used to. When I come down your street and you just stand there with your hands in your pockets, I may get a small glance and then you look away. Then I see children running around and shouting -- they don't seem to know who I am. I saw a man take his hat off, then look around. He didn't see anybody else with theirs off, so he quickly put it back on. And what about that night at the ball game, when they played the "Star Spangled Banner" and I waved so proudly in the breeze, but nobody bothered to sing? Oh, they stood up, all right, as sort of a mild patriotic gesture, but then they talked among themselves about the game and weather, but they did not sing. I felt hurt. Is it a sin to be patriotic? Have you forgotten what I stand for and where I have been? Anzio, Guadacanal, Korea, Vietnam, and Persian Gulf. Take a look at the memorial honor rolls sometime -- names of those who never came back -- who gave their lives to keep this republic free. One nation, under God. When you salute me, you are saluting them. I may not be coming down your street for a long time, as it seems that patriotic parades are a thing of the past. But when I do, will you do me a big favor? Stand up straight, place your right hand over your heart, and if they play the "Star Spangled Banner," sing out loud and clear. I will salute you by waving back. Show me you remember.

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June 2016

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

No act of kindness,

no matter how small,

is ever wasted.

~Aesop

1 10:00 Hope’s Haven

2

3:30 Fellowship

Hall Reserved

3 4 9:00 Stover Public Sale

5 9:00 Worship 10:00 Koinonia Kafe 10:15 Sunday School

6

10:30 Bible Study

7:00 WEF

Committee

7 7:00 Fellowship Hall Reserved

8 10:00 Hope’s Haven

7:00 Bible Study

9 10 11 7:30 Yard Sale 6:00 Spring Theme Event

12 9:00 Worship 10:15 Sunday School 6:00 VBS

13 6:00 VBS

14

6:00 VBS

15 10:00 Hope’s Haven 6:00 VBS

16 6:00 VBS

17 18

19 9:00 Worship 10:15 Sunday

School

20

10:30 Bible Study

21 8:30 Quilting Workday

7:00 Council

22

10:00 Hope’s Haven

7:00 Bible Study

23 24 25 8:00 Sampsell Public Sale Guisewite Wedding

26 FATHER’S DAY 9:00 Worship 10:15 Sunday

School

27

10:30 Bible Study

28

7:00 Fellowship

Hall Reserved

29 10:00 Hope’s Haven

7:00 Bible Study

30

7:00 Fellowship

Hall Reserve

The first supermarket supposedly appeared on the American landscape in 1946. That is not very long ago. Until then, where was all the food? Dear folks, the food was in homes, gardens, local fields, and forests.

It was near kitchens, near tables, near bedsides. It was in the pantry, the cellar, the backyard. ~Joel Salatin,