THE LIFE OF LYNNWOOD - Lynnwood Reformed Church
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THE LIFE OF LYNNWOOD described in a literary sense to describe that moment in a Epiphany story when a character has a realization or moment of awareness, after which the character views everything Have you ever seen the movie, The Sixth Sense? through the prism of this new light in the story. It was the first PG-13 I was ever allowed to watch (first vetted by my parents, of course). If you have seen it you As we enter the new year we also enter a season in cannot forget it. If you have not seen it you would the church year called Epiphany. At Christmas we probably recognize it by the creepy line said by a young celebrated the story of God entering the world wrapped in Haley Joel Osment, “I see dead people!” the flesh in the form of a baby. The Light of God, Jesus Christ, has come into the world! It is the story of a young boy, The season of Epiphany is about Cole, who is haunted (literally) by the revelation of who Jesus is; his ability to see and experience it is about the way God has come visitations from ghosts with and now we view life through the unresolved problems. He is unable prism of this new Light which has to tell anyone except child entered the story of the world. psychologist Dr. Malcolm Crowe, As old man Simeon, who sat played by Bruce Willis. As Cole and outside the Temple of God waiting Dr. Crowe try to uncover the truth for the Lord’s chosen one, said, about Cole’s sixth sense they Jesus is the Light that has come, stumble upon a truth that jolts “A light of revelation to the them and awakens them to Gentiles and for the glory of the something unexplainable. Namely, people, Israel.” [Spoiler Alert!] Dr. Cole is dead and has his own issues to work through! It is the moment The season of Epiphany lasts from the end of when this cinematic thriller reaches the epiphany moment Christmas until Ash Wednesday. Over the next couple for the characters. months we will listen to stories about the life of Jesus and will journey with Jesus to learn more of the Light of God. I really do believe that this - to use the contemporary We will be following what is called the narrative lectionary phrase - was the first time in my life when my mind was produced by Luther Seminary, a Lutheran Seminary in blown! I could tell you of many other moments, like when Minnesota. You can find the preaching schedule in this I realized that the little arrow next to the fuel pump on my newsletter or on our website. car’s gas gauge is to remind me what side the gas tank is on. However, a list of those things would become My hope and prayer for you is that as you hear these embarrassing. Yet, I wonder, have you ever had these stories of Jesus’ life you begin to learn of the Light of God moments? We call them, ‘mind-blown’ moments, but just who shows us who God is. I pray that as you come to a few years back we called them epiphanies. The moments know Jesus you are able to learn of the hope and love and when we are struck with stillness and awe because of joy and peace that God has gifted to us through Jesus. I some revelation of new knowledge that has changed pray that you might know God has sent a light that has everything. changed the way we can see and experience life. The word epiphany, technically defined, comes from the Greek word epiphainein, meaning ‘revelation, Pastor Garret appearance, or manifestation.’ I have otherwise seen it
During this past year at Lynnwood, one of my These stories from Jesus’ life were the guides to great joys in ministry has been working with the the task force in their discernment and the place Outreach Task Force. I am thrilled in this newsletter from which our vision grew: to share with you some of their hard work that will "We are called to be the hands and feet of Christ benefit Lynnwood now and in the years to come. and sow seeds, with words and actions that point But first, it might be helpful to share with you a little to Jesus, by going beyond our doors into the history: community to learn about our neighbors with Over a year ago, an anonymous donor compassion, know them with respect, and humbly generously gifted Lynnwood with $10,000 to be used embrace them for who they are. We accomplish for outreach, should the Lynnwood congregation this by using our specific talents and resources to match the funds. Lynnwood responded, raising over work with our neighbors to address the community $10,000 to meet the gift. The gift opened a door of needs" possibility and a question emerged: How can In addition to crafting a vision for Lynnwood expand our ministry to our outreach, the task force also community? There was a growing desire from Outreach is spent some time thinking about what outreach is not. You can find consistory to discern how to the whole list on their report, but participate in outreach and to faithfully a way of life. I wanted to share one insight with use these funds. Consistory decided in you: “Outreach is not something June of 2018 “to assemble a Task Lynnwood has to develop a new Group to create a vision for outreach and make a program or talent to implement. We can expand the recommendation as to how best to steward the work we already do to a larger group of people.” funds.” Pastor Stacey was appointed as the chair of As one of your pastors, I believe that outreach is the task force which included Walt Jones, Sandra a way of life: it is expanding our embrace to our Lundstedt, Ashley Perretta, Andy Pris, and Kathy community. I look forward to growing my embrace Spawn. The group began their work in August and and to seeking together to widen our embrace as a presented their final report to consistory in congregation. December. Their vision for outreach you will find below. For their full report, feel free to peruse the latest consistory packet, which can be found on the In Christ, bulletin board in the hallway near the offices. Pastor Stacey Every meeting of the Outreach Task Force began by reading a story from the life and ministry of Jesus. In reading, we noticed several things: Jesus often did his ministry by going out to the people and meeting them where they were. Jesus cared for the whole of a person: their spiritual life, physical health, and societal well-being. Jesus loved with humility and without judgment. Those who met Jesus were usually moved to praise, astonishment, or to go tell others about the goodness they experienced in Jesus.
Journeying with Jesus 2019 Preaching Schedule Christmas – Pentecost Narrative Lectionary Let us together follow the one who is called, Immanuel - God with us. Over the course of the next few months we will follow the story of Jesus from the Gospel of Matthew, his birth to baptism; from the backcountry to the holy city; from his triumphal entry to his coronation by crucifixion; from his death to resurrection; from his going up to heaven unto his sending the Holy Spirit to the church. I hope that you join us as we learn of Jesus who makes God known and who invites us to become who God created us to be! December 30th March 3rd April 19th (Good Friday) Genealogy of Jesus Transfiguration The Crucifixion Matthew 1:1–17 Matthew 16:24–17:8 Matthew 27:27–61 Psalm 132:11–12 Psalm 41:7–1 Psalm 22:1–2 January 6th March 6th (Ash Wed.) April 21st (Easter) Day of Epiphany Who is the Greatest? The Resurrection Matthew 2:1–23 Matthew 18:1–9 Matthew 28:1–10 Psalm 96:10–13 Psalm 51:1–3 Psalm 118:19–24 January 13th March 10th April 28th Jesus’ Baptism Forgiveness The Great Commission Matthew 3:1–17 Matthew 18:15–35 Matthew 28:16–20 Psalm 2:7–8 Psalm 16:5–8 Psalm 40:9–10 January 20th March 17th May 5th Jesus Tempted in the Wilderness Laborer in the Vineyard Peter’s Vision Matthew 4:1–17 Matthew 20:1–16 Acts 10:1–17, 24–48 Psalm 91:9–12 Psalm 16:5–8 Matthew 9:36–37 January 27th March 24th May 12th The Beatitudes Wedding Banquet Paul’s Mission Matthew 5:1–20 Matthew 22:1–14 Acts 13:1–3, 14:8–18 Psalm 1:1–3 Psalm 45:6–7 Matthew 10:40–42 February 3rd March 31st May 19th Treasure in Heaven The Ten Bridesmaids Gospel as Salvation Matthew 6:7–21, 25–34 Matthew 25:1–13 Romans 1:1–17 Psalm 20:7 Psalm 43:3–4 Matthew 9:10–13 February 10th April 7th May 26th The Golden Rule The Last Judgment God’s Love Poured Out Matthew 13:24–43 Matthew 25:31–46 Romans 3:28–30, 5:1–11 Psalm 37:16–18 Psalm 98:7–9 Matthew 11:28–30 February 17th April 14th June 2nd Parables of the Kingdom Triumphal Entry Hope of Resurrection Matthew 13:24–43 Matthew 21:1–17 Romans 6:1–14 Psalm 84:1–7 Psalm 118:25–29 Matthew 6:24 February 24th April 18th (Maundy Thurs.) June 9th Pentecost Feeding of the 5000 Words of Institution The Gift of the Holy Spirit Matthew 14:13–33 Matthew 26:17–30 Acts 2:1–4 Psalm 91:1–5 Psalm 116:12–15 Romans 8:14–39
Lynnwood welcomed seven to the family of faith on Sunday, December 23, 2018. Here is a little more about our newest members: ‘Helen' Bernice (Turney) Borgia I don't go by Helen, but since my retirement and my collecting Social Security, which has my 'legal' name, I have to use at least Helen B. Borgia on most documents. I was born at home in the Cotati family home, where I lived until I was nineteen years old. In June of 1962, I moved to Washington, D.C. were I worked for the Bureau of Naval Personnel. In 1990, I divorced my husband and 'found myself.' I went to work for New York State Education Department, and after 20 years State Service, I retired in 2011 and have enjoyed my retirement. I was brought up in the Christian Science church. About 1974, I converted to the Episcopal faith with adult baptism at St. John's Church (Episcopal), Centreville, VA. With husband Tom's heart attack in 1979, we relocated to Delmar, NY. I continued with St. Stephen's (Episcopal) until 1990.I enjoy my crocheting projects as well as my research in Genealogy. I am excited to be a part of the Lynnwood family. Since first visiting Lynnwood, I felt like I 'belonged.' All the Lynnwood members received Marian, Jackie and myself, as though we'd always been a part of the church. I have a renewed faith in God. I have, as usual, written a novel, about my life. "Take what you like, and leave the rest." Bernice is the mother of Marian Truax and the grandmother of Jackie Truax. Marian Truax I was born in Centerville, VA and moved with my family to Delmar, NY when I was 5. I was raised and confirmed in the Episcopal faith. Recent events led me to Lynnwood where I found the fellowship and ministry that I was seeking. I love all things artistic including playing violin/cello, knitting, crocheting, painting and reading. I am excited to be a part of Lynnwood's family as they truly are a family to me. Marian is the daughter of Bernice Borgia and mother of Jackie. Elise Burby I grew up in Altamont and went through the Guilderland district, then went to Utica College, and graduated in May with a degree in liberal studies and childhood/special education. I am a soldier in the New York National Guard, with whom I drill once a month as the CBRN specialist for the battalion. In my free time, I enjoy reading, writing, having adventures and spending time with loved ones. I did not have a very religious upbringing, so I did not really come to faith until I had a series of experiences here at Lynnwood and while in training for the army. I love attending church here at Lynnwood because in this warm, accepting congregation I feel the love and community we share in Christ, and I look forward to learning more and serving alongside my brothers and sisters in faith. Elise is the daughter of Ruth Anne Burby. Ruth Anne Burby I grew up in Knox, NY, up on "The Hill" as they refer locally to the Helderberg Mountains. Now I live at the foot of those mountains in Altamont. Currently, I have the privilege and joy of raising four children, ages 22, 20, 14 and 11. I have been involved in the PTAs at their schools for several years and am currently the president of the Farnsworth Middle School PTA. I recently rediscovered that I was baptized at the Woodlawn Reformed Church in Schenectady, but I do not have any memory of attending church as a child. I first enjoyed the experience of Lynnwood Church through joining voices at concerts with the church choir while singing as a member of Suburban Sounds. I have always loved singing and have been happy to lend my voice to the church choir over the the past few years during holiday services. I have never felt very comfortable at most church services until coming to Lynnwood. I find that both Pastors' sermons relate to everyday life. I am excited to join the Lynnwood community and discovering more of what faith means in my life. Ruth Anne is the mother of Elise Burby. Greg Comparetta I've lived in Guilderland my whole life. I was raised Catholic, but began attending the Reformed Church when I met my wife, Shannon. I enjoy traveling with my family and being outdoors. I am excited to be a part of the Lynnwood family because of the opportunities to grow and be involved as a family in faith. Greg is the husband of Shannon Comparetta, and father of Andrew and Nicholas. Chad DeMania I grew up in Schenectady NY and was raised Roman Catholic but grew away from church in adulthood. I enjoy being active and helping out in the community. I am excited to begin a new chapter here at Lynnwood and grow as an individual and family. Chad is the husband of Jessica and father of Alyssa, Amelia, Ansley, and Audrey. Jessica DeMania I grew up in Gansevoort NY, was raised Methodist and spent a couple years in a non-denominational church. I enjoy being enriched and surrounded by the world’s natural beauty and take great pleasure in spending quality time with family and friends. I am enthusiastic to become a member of the Lynnwood family and further grow in my faith. Chad is the wife of Chad and mother of Alyssa, Amelia, Ansley, and Audrey.
The beginning of Advent, the first Sunday in December, was Gift Giving Sunday. We collected many gifts for children and gave them to the City Mission for their annual "Christmas Store", where parents can "shop" for gifts for their children. This year we collected 150 gifts. Upon delivery, we were met by Mike Saccocio, given hugs and many thanks for our generosity and support. A great big hug to you all at Lynnwood, and may you all be blessed this Christmas as you continue to be a blessing to so many others. Sincerely, Peg Kniskern for the Mission Team This past month at consistory we . . Received a report from the Outreach Task Force which included a definition about what Outreach is and isn’t, recommendations for outreach opportunities, a statement about measuring success as how much we ‘try’, and a recommendation to have outreach become a part of all we do at Lynnwood. Received an outline of this year’s budget from the Stewardship Team and approved the budget after lengthy discussion. Approved hosting a Summer School program called TSL Adventures for an all day kids program during July and August. Discussed leading the next Brooks BBQ and decided the chair persons to be Joanne Cogswell and Sue Weinberg. You may give on the Lynnwood website. It’s fast, easy, and secure. 2018 Annual See the brochure with your boxed Reports envelopes in the narthex, or ask a Reports from all teams deacon. and treasurers Please let a deacon know if you will not are requested in the need envelopes next year, so we can save church office by on printing costs. Friday January 18 Thanks! Thanks!
Fostering and Deepening Community with God and Others You are invited to explore becoming a facilitator of a small group. A facilitator exploration and training session is scheduled for Saturday, January 26, 9:00 - 3:00. Our next small groups will be during the six weeks of Lent 2019 (March 6 through April 21). Maybe you have trained and are hearing the call to lead. Maybe you feel the need for a refresher. Maybe you are slightly curious about small group facilitation and wondering if it is for you … is God calling you? Each group facilitator chooses the day and time for the group to meet with sessions being 1½hours in duration. As a facilitator you choose a topic that you are passionate about and which personally engages you: Bible study, book discussion, video discussion, contemporary issues, support groups, for example: grandparenting, parenting teenagers, stress management … the sky's the limit. The secret is that your passion on the topic will pull the group together. Can’t come up with a topic? No problem, contact Kay and Bill who will gladly help you discover a topic waiting to be defined that will excite you, or come to the training and discover a passion God has gifted/chosen for you. There is no obligation if you attend a training. Just come and explore the possibility that God is calling you to small group facilitation and a ministry for Lynnwood Church. For more Information contact coaches Bill and Kay Grosch (518-869-7479). Please let us know by Sunday, January 19 if you plan to attend, so we can better plan the training. LYNNWOOD HAS A HEART FOR OTHERS! This year marks our 28th year of participation in Project Angel Tree! Through the joint effort of the Lynnwood Family and Friends, Christmas was much brighter for 26 Families living in the Schenectady area. Forty eight (48) children received gifts from their incarcerated relative (Dad / Mom / Grandma). 96 gifts were provided for these children by Lynnwood folk and beautifully wrapped and returned for distribution by volunteers of the congregation. Project Angel Tree doesn’t just happen! A great big THANK YOU to: Initial phone calls were made to the Caretaker of each child to learn wants wishes of each child by Kathy Ader, Eileen Brown, Cindy Colloton, Joanne Gorczyca, Betsy Hollander, Peg Kniskern, Sandy Lundstedt, Janice Shaffer and Sharon Sobieski. Bob Paquette for securing driving directions (Google Directions) for each of the 26 deliveries. Thanks to shopping elves, Jane Brehm and Jean and Don Dean. To each individual who purchased gifts (it was delightful to see so many young people choose an Angel Tag). Delivery Volunteers Kathy & Jim Ader, Dianna & Larry Bopp, Walt Cogswell, Don & Jean Dean, Betsy Hollander, Peg Kniskern, Anna & Charlie Miller, Donna & Bob Paquette and Rik Schlierer. This project could not happen without you. To Jane Brehm, Cindy Colloton, Pat Johnson and Judy Zielinski for assisting with sorting and packaging all of the gifts in preparation for delivery. Thanks to Jan Mason who helped out in numerous ways throughout the 8 weeks of preparation for “our gifting.” As I mentioned at the beginning of the article - It doesn’t just happen, but by many folks working together, WE SERVED BEYOND OUR DOORS! Thank you and have a very Happy and Fulfilling New Year! Jean Dean, Coordinator
The Home Furnishings Program www.schenectadyhomefurnishings.org NEEDS OF THE MONTH Guilderland Food Pantry Furniture: small kitchen table sets, small flat desks, beds, loveseats oil, laundry detergent, canned Furnishings: sauce pans, blankets, small size coffee makers, fruit, corn, dish detergent, crock pots, toasters, toaster ovens, metal baking pans, dish racks coffee, juice, Dinty Moore To donate, call Jamie Doriguzzi, Program Director, prepared dinners, snack 518-346-2444 or email us at homefurninc@aol.com crackers for back packs to arrange for warehouse drop-off of useful items. Please, everything must be in immediately useful condition YOU HELP US HELP OTHERS – THANKS! Needed all the time: Shelf stable milk: soy, evaporated Canned soups, veggies, fruit, beans, tuna Applesauce Quinoa Schenectady Community Brown rice Ministries Whole wheat pasta 100% fruit juice JOINT EFFORT PROVES SUCCESSFUL BROOKS’ BBQs Through the efforts of many willing workers the October and December Brooks’ BBQs were most successful. Seeing folks of all ages working together was just wonderful! Special thanks to October Coordinators; Senior Singles and Lynnwood Women, and December Coordinators: Building & Property and Worship & Music teams. So organized and so efficient. Thank you! Brownie Bakers outdid themselves. We had plenty of brownies which add the “Lynnwood Touch” to each dinner (many churches do not provide goodies). Our BBQs operate like a “well oiled machine.” Many repeat customers compliment us on our procedure. It does take many, many folks working together. THANK YOU! THE YOUNG PEOPLE ADD SUCH A SPECIAL TOUCH running orders to each vehicle. You are tops! Did you notice Lynnwood’s new “poke in the ground signs” in various parts of the town? (the more signs, the better to get the word out) In terms of monetary accomplishment, the Lynnwood Budget realized a profit of $2,627.84 in October and $2,011.00 in December. Fantastic! Thank you! Save the Date! Saturday April 6 is the date of the next Lynnwood Talent Show!
Spring 2019 Youth Programing Sunday school at Lynnwood is split into two classes: Explorations (Pre-K-5th grades) and Discipleship (6th-12th grades). Both groups meet every Sunday during worship except if otherwise noted. Explorations leaves worship after the children’s sermon. Discipleship leaves after the sermon. Both classes end at 11:15am. All are welcome! Sunday, January 6, 5:30-7pm Community Youth Group (4th-12th) Meet at Altamont Reformed Church for dinner, team building, & learning. Sunday, January 13, after worship Chili Fundraiser for LRC Youth. Proceeds from this fundraiser will support the youth winter retreat and summer scholarships to Camp Fowler. More information to come! Sunday, January 20, 5:30-7pm Lynnwood Youth Group (6th-12th) Join us for dinner, games, & time together! January 25-27 Lynnwood Youth Retreat at Camp Fowler (6th-12th) Join us at Camp Fowler for an amazing retreat focused on fun, belonging, and growing in our faith. Sunday, February 3, 5:30-7pm Community Youth Group (4th-12th) Meet at LRC for dinner, team building, and learning. Sunday, February 17, 5:30-7pm Lynnwood Youth Group (6th-12th) Join us for dinner, games, & time together! Sunday, March 3, 5:30-7pm Community Youth Group (4th-12th) Meet at Altamont Reformed Church for dinner, team building, & learning. Sunday, March 17, 5:30-7pm Lynnwood Youth Group (6th-12th) Join us for dinner, games, & time together! Sunday, April 7, 5:30-7pm Community Youth Group (4th-12th) Meet at LRC for dinner, team building, and learning. Sunday, April 20 No youth group because of Easter. Enjoy time with your family! Sunday, May 5th, 5:30-7pm Community Youth Group (4th-12th) Meet at Altamont Reformed Church for dinner, team building, & learning. Sunday, May 19 Celebration Sunday: Sunday School plans and leads worship. Sunday, May 19, 5:30-7pm Lynnwood Youth Group (6th-12th) Join us for dinner, games, & time together! Saturday, June 1- Sunday, June 2 Community Youth Group (4th-12th) Overnight event at Lynnwood. Registration for Camp Fowler is open! Go to www.campfowler.org to learn more and to register. IF you are interested in going to Camp Fowler, Lynnwood offers a $100 scholarship for children and youth connected to our congregation. To receive a scholarship, please contact Pastor Stacey.
January 2019 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT Dec 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 Office closes New Year’s Day Choir 7:30 at noon 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Communion Task Force Mission Team 6:30 Prayer Shawl Report deadline 6:00 12:00 Congregational meeting B&P 6:30 Faith Formation Worship Team 6:30 Fellowship Team 11:15 6:30 Community Youth at Choir 7:30 Altamont Reformed 5:30 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Chili Fundraiser Lynnwood Newsletter Deadline Joyful Noise Circle Thursday Circle at Women 7:00 10:00 the Turf 6:00 Consistory Choir 7:30 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Facilitator Training 9-3 Senior Singles 11:15 Choir 7:30 Youth Retreat at Camp Fowler Youth Retreat at Camp Lynnwood Youth 5:30 Fowler 27 28 29 30 31 Feb 1 2 Youth Retreat at Camp Serve at City Choir 7:30 BROOKS BBQ Fowler Mission January Birthdays 1 Charlotte Amigo 10 Walt Jones John Watson Blanche Matheson 2 Russell Brown Nancy Moore 6 Danielle Spitzer 20 Anthony Colloton Karsen Rittner Alice Corcoran (99!)
Publication Deadlines I wish I could remember his name... Articles for the Life of Lynnwood Lynnwood Reformed Church Have we met? are due on the 15th of each Sunday Worship 9:45 Office Hours: 8:30 - 4:00 M-F Your name escapes month (518) 356-4327 me….. Bulletin Insert lynnwoodreformed.org Who do I contact to Bulletin insert information is due lynnwood@nycap.rr.com sign up?… no later than 2pm on Wednesday. Pastors: I suppose there are a Not receiving our emails? Garret Szantner few of us who know everyone, but it If you would like to be included on Stacey Duensing seems we have gotten out of the our church’s email list, please send Director of Music: habit of grabbing our name tag on us an email with your address and Jean La Crosse the way into church. -* request. Thanks! Office Manager: Won’t you help out newcomers - Janith W. Mason and old timers alike - and wear Got news? Custodian: yours? If you find yours missing, Do you have something you would Doug Looman or if somehow we overlooked you, like to share: blessings, thanks, please contact the office. kudos? Just send them to the church office! Directory Updates Sherry Delgrego: sldelgrego@gmail.com Alex Mackay Belmont Village 4310 Bee Cave Rd Room 342 West Lake Hills, TX 78746 When was the last time you visited the Library bulletin board in the hallway Deacons by the church office? Joanne Cogswell There you can catch up on recent Nancy LaPietro correspondence, announcements, Linda Looman community events, and mission news. Charlie Miller Check it out! Pamela Rost Sue Weinberg Members of our congregation Are you getting our email blasts? who are homebound and/or in Elders Are you on the Prayer partner List? need of care are posted adjacent Kay Grosch Know someone who would like to to the bulletin board in the Ken Klapp hallway leading to the offices. receive our newsletter? Carol Lynch Please remember them How can we keep you in the loop? Kathy Mix in your prayers. Lou Smith Just contact the office: Feel free to contact any member lynnwood@nycap.rr.com Mark Watson of the Care Team or the office or 518-356-4327 if you would like to assist in any way.
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