Bulletin, 3/13/2011

• Details
• Parent Category: Sunday Bulletins
• Published on Thursday, 10 March 2011 20:07

FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT
13 March 2011 -- 8:30 & 10:00 a.m.

No matter who you are  or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.

“Let Mutual Love Continue.” Hebrews 13: 1

THE GATHERING
PRELUDE:                       Adagio in a minor                         J.S.Bach
WELCOME & ANNOUNCEMENTS
INTROIT:                           A Child’s Prayer              Phyllis S. Miller
Duet by Ella and Isak Hopfner
It Could Be a Wonderful World           Pete Seeger
Duet lines sung by our second graders
CALL TO WORSHIP:
Leader:    You have searched me, God, and you know me.

People:    You know when I sit and when I rise;
you discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.

Leader:    Where can I go from your Spirit?  
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you     are there;

People:    If I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 

If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast. 


Leader:    If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the
light become night around me,”

People:    Even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.

Leader:    Within your arms of justice and care, we are known,
we are loved, we are found. Amen.

*HYMNs & PSALMS # 356  Come Thou Font of Every Blessing    

(8:30)  CONFESSION AND PRAISE
CALL TO CONFESSION
UNISON PRAYER OF CONFESSION:
Dear God who knows us inside and out, we confess the ways that we have been distant from your grace. We confess that we have made choices without courage, spoken words without compassion and taken action without discernment. In our fear, in our numbness, in our despair, we have tried to hide ourselves and our sins from you, who are our source and our life. O God of justice, hear our prayers of confession.

SILENT PRAYER
WORDS OF ASSURANCE
*GLORIA PATRI

(10:00)  SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM
It is the church’s policy that the use of any kind of camera (video, still - with or without flash) is not permitted in the sanctuary during worship. We welcome the Ledwith family and baptize Chloe Marie Ledwith into the Christian community.  Chloe is the daughter of Gina and Will Ledwith, and sister of Liam.  

*CONGREGATIONAL RESPONSE:
We, the members of this congregation, affirm our unity with Christ and express our support of this family through constant love, Christ-like example, and faithful prayer.

BLESSING OVER THE WATER: (in unison)
O God, we give you thanks for the gift of water.  Over water your Holy Spirit brooded in creation to bring forth the earth.  Through water you led the Chosen People to deliverance in the Promised Land.  In the fullness of time you sent Jesus Christ who was nurtured in the water of Mary’s womb.  In the waters of the Jordan John baptized Jesus.  With water Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and taught them to serve.  Bless now this  water and grant that what we do now on earth may be confirmed in heaven.  In Jesus’ name we pray.  Amen.

BLESSING OF THE BAPTIZED CHILD: (in unison)
O God, uphold Chloe by your Holy Spirit.  Increase in her from day to day your gifts of grace, the spirit of knowledge and reverence of God, the spirit of joy and love, through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

*HYMNS & PSALMS # 494      Out of Deep, Unordered Water
Church School participants, Pre-K through Grade 8, may leave for their classes during the first verse.

SERVICE OF THE WORD
SCRIPTURE:                    Genesis 3: 1- 9                    Deacon Linske
SERMON:                      “Where Are You?”             Rev. Horst Clark
*HYMN:       I Sought the Lord and afterward I Knew   (insert)

RESPONSE OF THE PEOPLE
JOYS AND CONCERNS
PASTORAL PRAYER
THE LORD’S PRAYER
CALL TO OFFERING
OFFERTORY:                  Kyrie (Missa Brevis)      Hans Leo Hassler

*HYMNS & PSALMS # 538   Lord, Dismiss Us With Thy Blessing

BENEDICTION

BENEDICTION RESPONSE:  Let Us Now Depart in Thy Peace
New Mexican folk song
Let us now depart in thy peace, blessed Jesus
Send us to our homes with God's love in our hearts.
Let not the busy world claim all our loyalties.
Keep us ever mindful, dear Lord, of thee.  Amen
POSTLUDE:              Prelude and Fugue in e minor             J.S. Bach
+ + +
We invite everyone to join us in Fellowship Hall immediately following the 10:00am service for fellowship and refreshments, hosted today by the Pilgrim Fellowship Committee.  There is time to grab a cup of coffee and greet others before heading to the Adult Forum at 11:30am in the Chapel to learn more about where our mission giving is going overseas and the critical needs we are helping to meet. Jan Aerie, from the UCC national office in Cleveland is our speaker.

The flowers today are given by the Flower Committee.
Greeters:  Carol Linsley and Doris Fonicello
Ushers:  (8:30)  Steve and Chris Auffant
(10:00)  Dave Knapp, Preston Maynard, Eva Ewing, Louis Zotti
Breadbakers:  Martha Losche and Barbara Bishop
Sound System:  JB Catlin

CDs of worship services are available to sign out in Spencer House; sermon recordings are on our website: wwwfirstchurchguilford.org.

Deaconess for March is Holly Langewisch (203-453-3977).  Please make her aware of new births, adoptions, or anyone who needs a note of encouragement or sympathy.  Call Mary Norris (203-457-9483) for information about our Prayer Shawl Ministry.

Deacon for March is Rebecca Bunting (203-458-1783.)  If you have questions, concerns or compliments, please speak with her.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Lenten Devotional Booklets are available in the Narthex. Gladys Minear made these available to the church as a relevant resource for our personal Lenten journeys.  Please take one.

Pilgrim Fellowship Meeting Tonight 7:00pm Fellowship Hall.:

Lenten Supper & Program Series Begins this Wednesday: We’ll gather for supper at 6:00pm in Fellowship Hall followed by the program led by Rabbi Hesch Sommer and Kendrick on Passover/Easter.  The first supper will be Italian with eggplant parmesan, lasagna; and gluten-free pizza (a free-will donation will be accepted).  Please join us as we journey through Lent.

April Landmark Deadline Tuesday, March 15: Please submit your articles to Jeanie Cacopardo at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , or leave it in the Landmark mailbox in Spencer House.  Thank you!

One Service of Worship on March 20: There will be no 8:30am Chapel service on March 20th as we invite everyone to come at 10:00am to hear the good news through story and song in Godspell.  The service will last approximately 1 ½ hours.

Children and Godspell on Sunday, March 20: We are excited to share with our church family the story of Jesus’ life and ministry through the musical Godspell.  Jesus and his followers act out the parables with humor and slapstick, which we think will be enjoyed by all ages.  As the musical tells all of Jesus’ life, the second half includes a depiction of the crucifixion. If you think that would be too intense for your child to watch, please feel free to exit with the Junior Choir after the song “We Beseech Thee.”  Fellowship Hall will be available and we welcome you to remain for the reception following service.  If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Horst Clark (203) 453-3324 or Liza Catino (203) 453-0494.

Introduction to Christian Meditation Class, led by Clare Robert, will meet on Mondays, March 21, 28 & April 4 at 4 p.m. in the Minear Library. There is still room for two more persons to join this class. You will learn simple ways to pay attention to your mind and to appreciate daily activities such as eating and walking. To sign up please speak to Clare or call the Church office.  (An evening course will be offered after Easter.)

Alpha Club Meets Tues., March 23rd 7:30pm in Fellowship Hall: Joel Helander will speak about Probate Court.  All are welcome!

Heifer Book Sale on March 27th: Each year the Church School children raise money for Heifer International, which combats poverty by giving animals to people around the world. The animals provide food, clothes, extra income and offspring which are, in turn, passed on to other families.  Children will bring home donation boxes and calendars that tell more about Heifer. In addition, the proceeds from the Heifer Book Sale we will hold a book sale where the proceeds will enable us to “pass on our gifts” as well.  Bring books in good condition (no text books please) to Fellowship Hall or the 1st Grade classroom today or next Sunday.  On March 27, all are invited to the Book Fair following worship! Books not sold will go to Guilford Library or New Haven Reads.

Alpha Club Rummage Sale will be held in Fellowship Hall on Fri., April 1st 6:30-8:30pm and Sat., April 2nd 9-11am.  Donations will be accepted in Fellowship Hall during set-up hours: Wed., Mar. 30th 7 -9pm; Thurs., Mar. 31 7-9pm; and Fri., Apr. 1 10am-3pm.  Saleable items only in good condition, please.  We do not accept any large appliances, exercise or sports equipment, computers/accessories.  Call Cindy Magee for more information 203-453-5487.

Silver Lake Conference Center Summer 2011! Register online now for weeklong camps at our UCC camp in Sharon, CT.  Kids and youth have found it to be a life-changing place of community, fun, and faith.  If you are currently in Grades 3 - 11, talk with Lisa Horst Clark or visit www.silverlakect.org for information.

Judy Chan is a missionary serving with the Hong Kong Christian Council. During 16 years of service she has visited many Asian nations and has discovered the beauty and pain in each place.  And as the Christian church continues to witness and serve under complex and often oppressive conditions for the Christian minority, she sees two things must be taken seriously: the multi-faith experience of Asia; and the grim reality of poverty.  In the face of fear and terror, people long for true peace.  She is able to see what God has offered - not a compromise, but an opportunity to open herself to the mission of helping heal the suffering.  (March 2011 UCC Calendar of Prayer)

Guilford Food Bank Needs: 100% fruit juices; canned fruit, tuna, ham, hash, stews; pancake/meal/potato/cake/mac & cheese mixes; dry milk, cereal.  You may leave your donations in the narthex.


Living Out “The Parable of the Talents”

Here are some of the things that fellow members are doing:

1. Peggy Russell - Faith inspired, inspirational message jewelry.

2. Sam, Austin & Lexi Fix - grow a garden and sell the vegetables

3. Chef Paula Konaresk i- Spring BBQ on church lawn.  Need wait staff and musicians to play/sing for the event. Can you share this talent with Paula? Call 203-453-5249.

4. Capt. Chuck and Dianne Ramsey - Four course gourmet luncheon with specially selected wines served on the fly bridge of the 44 foot motor Yacht Home.  Board at Essex at 11am and return by 5pm with a stop at East Haddam to browse stores and a tour of Goodspeed Opera House. Four couples per trip at $250 per couple.

5. Clyde Work - print enlargements of colored pictures I have taken around the world, framed and offered for sale.

6. Barbara Johnson-Jewelry, outings - who knows

7. David Knapp - 6 hour cruise on his 28ft Catalina Sloupe. Leave from Westbrook, anchor for lunch at Duck Island for lunch and swimming.  Party of four people $300.

8. Holly Bollier – teach a class on making polymer clay leaf ornaments in her studio.  Participants will go home with at least one clay leaf for use as a pin or hanging ornament.  

CHURCH CALENDAR

FH - Fellowship Hall;  GH – Griswold Hall; ML – Minear Library;
CR – Choir Room; CSB – Church School Bldg; BR – Bride’s Room

Sunday, Mar. 13:  Lisa preaching
8:30am  Worship – Chapel
9:00am  Bible Study – CSB Room 9
9:00am  Senior Choir Rehearsal – CR
10:00am  Worship, Nursery care, Church School
11:30am  Adult Forum-Chapel
7:00pm  Pilgrim Fellowship – FH

Monday, Mar. 14:
11:00am  Music & Transformation - BR
4:30pm  GSA Troop 2303 – FH
7:30pm  Confirmation 2 – GH
7:30pm  Welcoming & Inclusion Committee-ML

Tuesday, Mar. 15:
3:00pm  Middle School Youth Group – FH
5:00pm  GSA Troop 2117- FH
7:00pm  Human Resources - ML

Wed., Mar. 16:
4:00pm  Junior Choir – FH
4:00pm  Cherub Choir – GH
6:00pm  Lenten Supper -FH
7:00pm  Service of Prayer & Healing – Chapel
7:30pm  Lenten Program - Chapel

Thurs., Mar. 17:
10:00am  Prison Prayer Group - ML
7:00pm  BS Troop 474-FH
7:30pm  Peace, Affirmation & Justice Committee-ML

Friday, Mar. 18:     7:30pm  Godspell Performance - Sanctuary
Saturday, Mar. 19: 2:00pm  Godspell Performance – Sanctuary
7:30pm  Godspell Performance - Sanctuary

Sunday, Mar. 20  
No 8:30am Chapel Service – please join us at 10am
9:00am  Bible Study – CSB Rm 9
10:00am  Family Worship: Godspell, Nursery care
11:30am  Reception- FH
5:30pm  Confirmation 1 – GH
7:00pm  Pilgrim Fellowship - FH

12-Step Meetings at First Church This Week:
AA:  Sun.,  7:15am – GH            Alanon:  Tues., 7:30pm – Chapel
Tues., 7:30pm – Room 9                         Wed., 10:00am - FH
Wed. 7:30pm–GH                   Alateen:  Tues., 7:30pm-GH
Fri., Noon –GH                       NA:          Sun., 1:00pm – GH
Fri. 7:30pm – elsewhere         OA:        Thurs., 7:00pm – Rm 9
Sat., 7:30am – GH

WELCOME TO FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH!

United Church of Christ
An Open and Affirming Congregation

122 Broad Street
Guilford, CT  06437
203-453-5249 (phone & fax)
email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
website: www.firstchurchguilford.org
newsletter: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We are pleased that you are here to worship with us today, and we trust that you have found inspiration and fellowship.  If we can be of service to you, please speak with one of the ministers either after worship, or call or email us:  
Dr. Norris – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Rev. Robert – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Rev. Horst Clark – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
To make an appointment with a minister, please call the Church Office.

OUR STAFF – PARTNERS IN MINISTRY

Kendrick L. Norris                                                      Senior Minister
Clare Robert                                               Interim Associate Minister
Lisa Horst Clark              Associate Minister for Children & Families
William C. Speed                                   Director of Music Ministries
Penelope Rebuzzini                                                     Office Manager
Larry Donahue                                                                          Sexton
Salisha Miller                                      Director of Pilgrim Fellowship
Liza Catino                                                         Junior Choir Director
Gail Etter                                                          Cherub Choir Director
Joe Catino                                                        Chair, Church Council
Dianne Hughes                                                                            Clerk
Debbie Peluse                                                                        Treasurer
Heather Collinson                                                             Bookkeeper
Debbie Bishop                                                       Financial Secretary
Jeanie Cacopardo                                              Editor, The Landmark
Martin Ewing                                                                     Webmaster