For this week’s Messenger, I wanted to deviate from the norm and share with you a few things that have been on my heart and mind these last few weeks.
As you’re all aware, Rachel’s due date is quickly approaching. In fact, at the writing of this newsletter, it’ll be just over a week before our little one is supposed to arrive.
To be transparent, as Rachel and I get closer to this big day, we’ve realized that there are a lot of different emotions that we feel—ranging from excitement and joy to anxiety and stress.
But one of the most powerful emotions that Rachel and I have been feeling during this time is that of profound gratitude. Specifically, gratitude for the wonderful people of Flemington UMC.
Friends, the truth is that we are so appreciative of the support and love that we have received from this congregation during this special time of transition for our family.
And so, before I start my paternity leave on the 21st, Rachel and I want to simply say, “thank you” for your prayers and your presence in our lives. We truly feel blessed because of you.
Peace,
Pastor Chris
Pastor Chris Paternity Leave
Pastor Chris’ last Sunday before he begins paternity leave will be February 20th. The current plan is for Pastor Chris to take three weeks off to focus on his new role as a parent. Our very own Bruce LaPenta, Rev. Jeanette Bassinger-Ishii, and Rev. Taka Ishii will be preaching during that time.
Lent: Ash Wednesday
We will be having an Ash Wednesday service at 7 pm on Wednesday, March 2nd. Join us as we begin the journey of Lent. All are welcome as we begin the life-changing journey to the cross and the empty tomb.
Small-Group Study: “The Walk”
During Lent, our small groups will be going through a study based on Rev. Adam Hamilton’s new book called “The Walk.” Throughout this study, you’ll learn more about the spiritual practices that can help us grow closer to God and mature in Christlikeness.
Our Tuesday group will be led by Lynn Becker and held on Tuesdays at 1 pm. Our Sunday morning group will meet at 9 am on Sundays and be led by Bruce LaPenta. Both groups will meet in the A-Wing Conference room.
If you are interested in being a part of either group, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Bruce (blapenta@embarqmail.com) or Lynn (lynnsnowbecker@gmail.com). Finally, the book will cost 13 dollars. You can either leave the payment on the church office desk (please leave an attached note indicating who it is from) or leave a check in the offering basket with “The Walk Book Study” put in the memo.
Red Bird Mission Trip
Our church is looking to send a team of our members to a Red Bird Missions for a week of service in Appalachia, Kentucky. This mission’s trip would be from July 16th to the 22nd, and you would be working alongside other Methodist churches from New Jersey.
If you have questions or are interested in being part of the team that goes down to Red Bird Mission, please contact Walter Maze at wemaze@embarqmail.com or Pastor Chris at pastorchrisstanley@gmail.com
You can also learn more about Red Bird Mission by visiting their website at https://rbmission.org/.
Altar Flowers
Please be aware that anyone may supply flowers for the altar. There is a sign-up flower chart on the bulletin board right outside the sanctuary. The cost is $20, and an announcement will be added to the Sunday bulletin to indicate who the flowers are for. If you have any questions, please contact the church office.
Sharing Prayer Requests
If you have a prayer request, you can fill out a prayer card in the back of the sanctuary or email our Office Manager, Gretchen, at flemingtonumc@yahoo.com. We will add it to the list on the back of our bulletin. You can also email Gretchen to take off any prayer requests that are no longer relevant or needed.
Leadership Council Meetings
Our next Leadership Council meeting is Tuesday, March 8th, at 6:30 pm and will be in the conference room in A-Wing. Also, the minutes from January’s meeting have been formally approved. You may email Gretchen for a copy at flemingtonumc@yahoo.com.
The Parable of the Squeaky Wheel