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The Messenger The publication of the Effort United Methodist Church for the months of:
December 2020 and January 2021 Our Vision:
“The purpose of the Effort United Methodist Church is to know, love and serve God and one another in Christian community,
welcoming all to grow as followers of Jesus Christ.” _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The Pastor’s Page
(It is a V.I.P. you know…a Very Important Page! Seriously…..Very Important! You really need to read it!)
Dear Beloved of Christ Jesus,
We are already in the midst of Advent, the time when we remember the first coming of Jesus and anticipate his Second
Coming or Advent. As George Eldon Ladd said many years ago, we live in ‘the already, but not yet.’ Jesus has already come and
died, risen from the dead and ascended into heaven, but not everything has been put right yet, but will be so when he returns.
Another word which we use to describe the importance of Jesus’ first coming is the word ‘Incarnation.’ My understanding of
this word is that it expresses what the Gospel of John indicates in the first chapter when it says ‘the Word became flesh and dwelt
among us,’ in verse 14 or in Paul’s second letter to the Corinthian congregation where he writes, “God was in Christ reconciling the
world to himself.” (2 Corinthians 5:19). Think of that! God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself…reconciling you and me
to himself. That is how much he loves us!
A modern Christmas story I have enjoyed that expresses this truth is a story about a family that lived on a farm. On
Christmas Eve, the family decided to attend the Christmas Eve service at the local church, but the father, grieving over a loss he had
recently experienced, refused to go with them. He was angry with God. While he was at home, a blizzard blew in and to his dismay,
a flock of birds began trying to fly in the living room picture window for shelter from the storm. The man put on his coat and went
out to try to shew the birds towards the barn, but they just kept banging against the window. He then went to the barn and opened the
doors in hope that the birds would be attracted to the warmth of the open area beyond. But, no matter what he did, the birds kept
flying into the solid glass window. Finally, exhausted, the man fell to the ground and cried out in desperation, “If only I could be a
bird, I could guide them into the barn!” Just then the church bells began to ring, and the man realized that this is just what God had
done in Jesus. He had become a human being, so he could lead all who would follow to salvation.
In Jesus, God is not far off, but close to us; one who was like us in every way, the author of the writing of Hebrews says, yet
without sin. He knows our lives, he knows what we are dealing with…the illnesses, the struggles, the temptations to put our hopes in
things rather than in relationships…yet he can guide us in a better way…a way that will lead to a….
Merry Christmas in Him, Robin, one of His followers along with you, this Christmas and always
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
Do you love Jesus? Do you love it here at EUMC? Do you love the people, the preaching and the fellowship?
Then maybe you would love to be a part of our Church family! And we would love to have you!
Take Note! Presently ALL membership classes have been postponed due to the pandemic. We will announce dates for classes in the near future. (hopefully….)
Financially Speaking…. and there is always a lot to talk about… (There are over 2000 references about money in God’s word. I am not kidding and PSSST…. I don’t think He was either.)
For your info and perusal >>>>> The monthly reports are on the bulletin board in the Narthex. Bob Decker, Finance Committee
Chairperson can be reached at [email protected]
*****2021 Narrative Budget can be found on the bulletin board under Finance. Go take a peek.
***The EFT form is attached as the very last page of this newsletter.***
***These are some very difficult times for all of us and we are very much aware that many are losing jobs and/or have had their hours
or wages reduced due to the recent COVID 19 virus situation. We would like to thank each and every one of you for your continued
financial support of your church.
End of Year Giving Statements: 2020 End of Year Giving Statements will be coming out in January 2021. Our
Treasurer, Annette Gigliotti, will send them out to those of you that she has an email address for. Others will
be placed in the regular mail or distributed at church if you are attending in person If you would like to receive
yours by email and haven’t provided and updated email address, please call the church so that we can assist
you.
2021 Offering Envelopes: The 2021 Offering Envelopes are now available for you to pick up in the Narthex. If
you do not have an envelope and would like one, please see Jan in the office. Likewise, if you have been assigned
an envelope number and wish to go to EFT, contact Jan so that the number can be reissued. We are trying to be
good stewards of our finances
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be
poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38
“Gain all you can. Save all you can. Give all you can.” John Wesley
The “Joyful Noise” for December 2020/January 2021 Jingle Jangle Jingle lets make those buckets ring!!!
December January (projected)
6th Family Promise 3rd Connectional Ministries
13th Pastor’s Discretionary Fund 10th Re-Entry Program of Monroe County
20th Connectional Ministries 17th Pastor’s Discretionary Fund
27th Open 24th Pleasant Valley Ecumenical Network (PVEN)
31st Souper Bowl of Caring Sunday (SFRC)
Don’t forget to Save those receipts! You can help even more to support the general fund by turning in those
receipts. Let’s get at this! EUMC receives a 1% donation of qualified sales from Weis Markets and Kinsley’s Shop
Rite. Save those receipts (do not cut off the bottom!) and keep them in a drawer or jar at home. When we are able to
gather again you can put them in the box marked “Supermarket Tapes” located in the Narthex (next to the door to go to
Wesley Hall). You can also place them in the offering plate and Dee Juris will take care of the whole darn thing. Every little bit adds
up so don’t throw them out! God will take each little bit and multiply it! He fed 5000 men plus women and children with 5 loaves and
2 fish…. Imagine what he can do with register receipts! I just love how God works!!! Can I get an amen!? Roxane Martin and Brenda
Mitchel are helping out!)
Keepin you in the Church attendance guidelines The Administrative Council has developed guidelines for
attending services at the church. These guidelines along with Contact Tracing and Waiver of Liability forms have been emailed to those
on our master email list. For those who are not on our email list, we have attempted to identify you and send this information via US
Mail. In any event, the guidelines are posted throughout the church property and can also picked up in the church office. Please note
that all persons attending church on grounds must complete the Contact Tracing and Waiver of Liability form. Too, these are available
in the church office. We fully understand if you are not comfortable in returning to church at this time. As such, service will continue
to be recorded and available on the church webpage: effortumc.org on Sunday mornings. Any questions, please contact the church
office at 570-629-1890.
Inside Church services: Services have resumed within the Sanctuary! There will be 3 services held on Sunday morning with limited
seating per service. This is in accordance with established State and CDC guidelines. Masks must be worn at all time when in the
building and hand sanitizing will be required. We have set up a reservation process which is available on Thursdays through
Saturdays prior to a Sunday service. To register to attend one (1) of the three (3) services, please go to the church webpage
(effortumc.org). For those without access to email or internet, please call the church office to reserve your spot. The services will be
held at 8:30 am, 10:00 am and 11:15 am. Changes may need to be made as we embark on this adventure. Please note: When registering
for a service, one registration form must be completed for each person in your family attending. The system does not allow for more
than one person to sign up at a time. Also, you must register each week if you plan to attend a service. If you sign up one week it
does not automatically sign you up for every week. Call the church office if you have any questions.
If you are unable or are not quite ready to resume service in person, you can still “attend” church and hear the messages by visiting the
church webpage at: effortumc.org We are video recording the messages.
Church Group Activities: Some church group activities have resumed. Watch your bulletins for
information on which groups and specifications to meeting within the church. We are anxious too and
can’t wait to see some more activity at the church! However, we need to be safe in how we re-open. Please
be patient with those making decisions on the resumption of activities. Masks and social distancing
continue to be required when attending any event, meeting, etc., at the church.
We are appealing to you that if you are able, to either send in your tithes and offerings to the church at PO Box 545, Effort, PA 18330,
sign up for EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) a form can be found at the end of the Newsletter or give by going to Text to Give
(instructions below) and PayPal (instructions below). We thank you and pray you all stay safe and well.
***PAYPAL GIVING OPTION: We are now offering the PayPal option on our website for weekly giving! What a great thing
and easy too! Just go to our website, EFFORTUMC.ORG and scroll down to the PayPal Donate Button which is now active. (I know
this to be true because I do it each week without a hitch so have at it folks!) This is the way to go folks. 😊
***“TEXT TO GIVE OPTION: This is another option for you to give an offering to Effort UMC. Text the 10-Digit Give Plus
Text #833-947-1237 to get started. Enter the amount you wish to donate and press send. You’ll receive a registration link. Follow the
prompts.
Every season has its’ reason, why a service you’ll be missing. With E-giving you won’t miss a beat, even if you miss a week!
As a convenience to you, we offer electronic giving. It is a great way to take the stress out of remembering weekly giving and keep
your generosity flowing and our budget running smoothly whether you are able to attend services or not! Electronic giving is the
bomb! Just think about it, no digging in your desk for a pen, no checks, no writers’ cramp, no having to double your check when you
have missed a week and no worries! Your weekly giving is as automatic as breathing! You sign up once and VOILA we all receive
every week! Perfect! Pray about it a bit and see if it isn’t time to sign up for this great service. Just fill out the authorization form on
the Welcome Center or in the pew and zip it on over to the church office! You can also contact Annette Gigliotti
([email protected]) who is equally adept at setting you up and explaining the particular particulars of this particular process.
(Well that made me just a wee bit whoozie!) This truly keeps a regular rhythm of funds flowing into the church budget (you won’t be
whoozie at all!) And if that isn’t great enough, we even have laminated blue cards on the Welcome Center that you can use to put in
the collection plate during services if you like the action of putting something in the plate. I’m tellin ya… we thought of everything to
make it easy cheesy lemon peezy to keep our funds a flowen freely! ***** But now I have to tell you that there are costs to the church if you
decide to do this with a credit card. (OH POOH! But it’s true!) The church is assessed “processing fees” if you use a credit card. It serves the
church better if you use a bank/debit card. So please when considering EFT consider the method that works best for you and EUMC. Thank you!
EXTRA MILE GIVING: This is a great way for all of us to help in the support of “our” church that we love. Just think if we all
gave an extra $1.00 or few a week in addition to our normal offerings, it would be a great boost to our finances so we can continue to
provide our wonderful ministries at Effort by offsetting some of the costs of heating/cooling the building, electric etc. We are doing a
great job keeping all our important ministries going here at EUMC. Being good stewards with your weekly giving is what it is all
about and we are working hard to stretch every penny. Please consider going the “extra mile” and place your additional giving amount
in a pew envelope and mark it “Extra Mile Giving.” Thank you to those who have already been doing this, it IS making a difference.
Why not consider giving a smidgen more to help out the church you love so much. (And who loves you back!) May God continue to
bless you and all the ministries offered here at EUMC. Go the extra mile this month! (Or maybe even two, who knows where we could end up!) YOU
CAN START AN ENVELOPE AT HOME AND PUT YOUR EXTRA MILE GIVING IN THAT AND WHEN YOU ARE COMFORTABLE
ATTENTING CHURCH IN PERSON AGAIN, YOU CAN JUST PUT IT IN THE PLATE. That will work just fine! Wink! Wink!
Amazon Smile: SOOOO, WHILE WE STAY AT HOME LETS SHOP FROM HOME. I know many of us have already started
our CHRISTMAS shopping!!! AHHHHH! YES I SAID IT!!! Here’s something you can do that will make everyone SMILE and it is
actually called Amazon Smile. (What a ding dang doozie of a co-winkie-dinkie!) Our church just so happens to be recognized as a
non-profit charity that is eligible to receive a percentage of monies spent by using Amazon Smile! (Another amazing co-winkie-
dinkie!) Now, we all know, that a lot of shopping is done on Amazon so we don’ts haz to go outs into publics. All you have to do is
go to Amazon Smile when ordering/purchasing your items, click on charity or organization you wish to designate, click on Effort
United Methodist Church continue with your shopping and there you have it. A percentage of your purchase will automatically go to
EUMC. Why not give it a whirl, make someone’s day and SMILE!! You don’t even have to comb your hair or get out of your jammie
doobers to do this!! How great is that? I have been doing it for months and I am thanking God there are no cameras involved! HA!
NOW GET CRACKEN ON THAT CHRISTmas SHOPPING!!!
2 Corinthians 9:7 “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God
loves a cheerful giver” (are you giving cheerfully and with a thankful ?)
MINISTRY, MISSIONS & OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE!
(Many hands make light work, bring Joy to others and share the of God!)
There are always opportunities to serve here at EUMC! Look below and you may just find one that speaks to your “ ” but don’t keep it to yourself! Oh heavens no! Let the office know you are seeking to serve… we will hook you up!
Missions Team: Due to Tracy moving Melinda Knitter is taking over this vital ministry. Contact info is [email protected]>
Missions Committee Meeting: A meeting for the Missions Committee members is scheduled for Friday, December 11th at 10:00 am
in Wesley Hall. Please reach out to Melilnda Knitter to let her know if you will be able to attend. Agenda items will include: 2021
Joyful Noise Mission Outreach Ministries and help at the Christmas Eve, 6pm service. Melinda can be reached at: [email protected]
Missions Outreach Auction: While this event has been POSTPONED, we are still seeking donations of new or gently used items.. All
items are to be clean and in good condition. A sign up sheet for items that you would like to donate towards the auction is available by
call the church office. Plenty of time for you to get your items together for this worthy cause. Items such as theme baskets, homemade
items made of wood, ceramics, crochet, knitted etc. The auction supports local, national and international missions.
Ushers and greeters: Are you friendly? Do you like to smile at people and welcome them to church?
Could you do it with a mask on? Then you are right for the ministry of greeting. We are in need of
greeters and ushers for both the 8:30, 10:00 and 11:15am services. Prayerfully consider helping out in
this way. It is a great way to meet new people and make everyone feel welcome and comfortable as
they come into the church and participate in the service. Please let Pastor Robin know as soon as
possible.
Webmaster needed: The church is in need of a person to maintain our Church Webpage. Interested individuals
are to contact Pastor Robin as soon as possible
Nursery Volunteers: The Nursery is opened only during the 11:00 am service. If you love children and are
willing to volunteer one hour of your time to tend to care for those little ones in our church, please sign up on the
sheet on the Welcome Center. Background checks and clearances are required. If you need them, please contact
Jan in the office. Thanking you in advance for your support of this ministry. Presently we are using the nursery as an overflow
area and the nursery will be put on hold until further notice.
Upper Room Devotionals: These wonderful Devotionals are located in the back of the Narthex. They come in regular
and LARGE print. To help offset the cost consider doing a one month donation to cover the cost or if you take a
devotional guide please donate $1.25 for the small booklets or $1.50 for the large print. It will be a great help to offset the
costs of having them available to you month after month.
Bulletin/flower sponsors needed: The cost for sponsoring flowers is $25.00. Sign-up sheets for 2021 are on the
bulletin board next to the library. (Across from the office) Payment is required at least one week prior to the
sponsored date. Payment should be placed in an appropriately marked envelope and put in the offering plate. Please
make sure you sign up on the sheet and complete a Sponsor form and put in the office mailbox.
Let’s keep that altar bright and beautiful with a bountiful bevy of budding and blooming blossoms! (Whew!) Oh
and also, my little doodle dandies, if you want to sponsor the bulletin for the weekend it will costs just 15 teeny
weenie dollars that you won’t miss at all! Consider sponsoring a week or two, it will be well worth it.
ALSO PLEASE TAKE NOTE! Altar Flower Containers: We have been asked by Miller’s Flower Shop to convey to the congregation
to leave the “container” in church that the flowers are designed in so they can pick them up and use and refill for the next
delivery. Donations of recycled soda/coffee plastic cups (large) would also be appreciated. This is to keep the cost of the altar flowers
at this same price. Empty containers and cups can be left on the Welcome Center. Thank you.
THE TECH TEAM MINISTRY….. “IT’S TECHNICAL…” (Really….. it is, would I lie to you?) Questions/comments contact Leif the Rock Star Salt of the Earth Johnson in the cave, by phone (570-619-5482)
or email at ([email protected]). This is a great team my peeps, and you didn’t hear it from me and I am
whispering here.. but there just might be food and coffee in that cave… they even have a brandy new coffee
machine and a mini frig with soda! Not only that, you can even take your shoozies off and let your dogs breathe
and wiggle-de-diggle your toezies during the whole service and no one will even know, cuz no one can see you up there in that cave!
How awesome it that?!! Great gargantuan gobs of glory! What else in the world could you want and why wouldn’t you consider
serving here?! SHEESH!!!
***Prayerfully Consider Joining those “jolly ole guys” up there in that cave!!! We are looking to add a service tech or two to
help share the Sunday services. (since there are 3 now and we are videoing the first one to post on the website) This is a very
exciting ministry with benefits that are from above. Some computer experience would be a bonus, but not needed. Training is free.
FYI>>> Have a video or a clip that you would like to use in the church via the tech cave? Contact the tech team to be sure that it can
be used within the legal guidelines for showing such things. Oh BLAH! BLAH! BLAH! But, alas, even with all that BLATHERING,
there are copyright laws that we must abide by to prevent litigation. (Yes my dears hearts, you read that right, I said “litigation”. What
is this world coming to?? Jumpin jehosaphat! We could be sued for not jumping through the right hoops! What fresh new litigious
horror will be next??
Prayer Shawl Ministry: Our next meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, December 1st and 15th, 2020 and on
January 5th and 19th, 2021. at 10:30 am to 1:00 pm. We are meeting in the former Day Care Kitchen area so that
we can appropriately social distance to keep everyone safe.
(But… you can still make shawls while sitting in your favorite comfy chair at home… hint hint!)
If you knit or crochet or would like to learn, please join us! If you know someone who would benefit from one of these
beautiful shawls made with faithful hearts of love, please let one of the members know. Did you know that the shawls
are being prayed over while they are being made?? What a warm and wonderful way to feel wrapped in the loving arms of God.
Information is located in the Narthex. Please keep them in prayer as they provide these wonderful handmade shawls to anyone who is
in need. (I am praying that their hands and needles hold out!)
We need a leetle more CHRISTMAS spirit on this page!!! How about some trees!
As of this writing it is 48 degrees with blue skies and not a flake anywhere to be seen…. Well… snow
flakes that is, cuz I know there are plenty of other flakes floating around out there. Ho! Ho! Ho! Even
though the grass is still green and we can still see it, don’t go resting back on your holly jolly laurels
because this meanie faced guy to the left will be making his debut any time now. And then you know
what happens?? Thing will become that winter horror… I mean winter wonderland. (sure I do) Any
hooper doodles, we have our parking lot covered for the removal of that icy dicey whitsey stuff but we
still will need those shovel ready folks to come and clear the stairs and walkways to keep anyone from
taking an unexpected sleigh ride and cracken their jingle bell on the concrete, breaking their mistle toe,
or slid their whole back out of whack causing them to have to use a candy cane to walk. (oh brother) So
with all that out there for your to consider please call Jan in the office (570-629-1890) and let her know you can be of service. And as
I have said in years passed, “There is simply NO reason ever that Jan and Robin should have to shovel their way into work!”
Prayerfully consider and thank you!
PASTORAL CARE TEAM (Caring for His flock ….because in faith, we and He love “ewe“ very much!)
OUR NEXT MEETING WILL BE ANNOUNCED
Our card files will be updated and we will continue working with Pastor Ken , John Ostovich & Alfredo Russo where needed in the
food pantry.
****Due to the CDC regulations we are unable to do visitations or meals at this time, but we are able to send cards.
If you know of anyone who needs a little joy or encouragement please contact Dee Juris @ (610)681-8217 or e-mail
****The Pastoral Care Team is praying for our friends, families, Church families, First Responders, all those in the Health Care
professions, our Military, truckers, grocery store workers, manufacturers et.al, as we all boldly face the current pandemic. Please
abide by the recommended CDC guidelines, cover your cough, wash your hands, practice social distance and if able self-isolate at
home. Remember God is waiting to hear your prayers as well.
Remember our motto: We aim to bring you cheer whether you like it or not!!!! (Seriously…. No fooling around… Whether you like it or not and they really mean it!)
There will be NO meetings for December and January
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 8th at 7:00 pm in Wesley Hall. Things will be a tad bit different, but
we can still have a productive meeting. Remember to wear your masks and to social distance. Hope to see you there!
***We are always looking for new members to join in on the fun with us! Our meetings are generally held the second Monday of
each month at 7:00 pm. Come on out!
*** TAKE NOTE: Our annual “Ladies night in” will be cancelled for December.
(That dang COVID is really killing our fun!)
Calling all men!!! The next meetings are scheduled for December 19, 2020 and January 16th, 2021 in the
former daycare kitchen. Our meetings are normally held on the third Saturday morning of each month at
9:00 am. For more information contact Steve Johnson at [email protected]: There is not just great discussion
and fellowship but lots of yummy food! So come on out for breakfast and a good biblical lesson and
discussion. What else are you doing on Saturday morning?? Aye?
“Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have the habit of doing. Rather, let us encourage each
other, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”~ Hebrews 10:25 (and believe me brothers and sisters.. it IS approaching)
Cultivating Generous and Thankful Hearts Ministry Headed by Bob Decker (It is all about the 5 loaves and two fishes in action. Give what you have in faith and God will multiply it! He
will! It has happened before!!! See Matthew 14: 13-31, John 6:1-15, Mark 6:30-44…. Go ahead, read it!)
CAN WE GET A WE’D LOVE ANOTHER !!!
Testimony: We need you! It’s time for you to do your testimony! We’ve made it even easier for you to do. If you are more comfortable
doing a testimony from home, work, the park, or anywhere else. (Please not the shower…. Just sayen) You can even have a ministry
group get together and make a testimony. It’s easy cheesy and even fun! You just video yourself (or have someone you trust do it) on
your phone and send it off to Rocky at [email protected]. That’s all you have to do! Come on, you can do this! The Men’s Group
one and it was great! For more information see Rocky Johnson or Pastor Robin. We cannot wait to see some brandy spankin new
testimonies. You know we would all love to hear your testimony and certainly with all this time at home a testimony or two about how
this church and its wonderful members are uplifting you at this time would be very appropriate.
Supplemental Food Resource Center AKA- SFRC a Ministry sponsored by EUMC “Sharing the love by feeding those in need in the West End region of the Poconos”
This ministry is an outreach serving the communities of Effort, Gilbert, Kunkletown, Kresgeville, Brodheadsville, Saylorsburg, Sciota
and Albrightsville. The Lord inspired us to help feed families going through emergency or other short term situations that are not
eligible for local, county or state programs and is limited to a 12 week life time duration per family. We require a valid driver’s license
or state ID with address proving residency in the West End. Volunteers are always welcome and needed. If you would like to
volunteer in any capacity and do not yet have background check clearances, please see Jan in the office. She will do what is needed to
assist you. If you have questions or concerns please direct them to the church office at, 570-629-1890.
A BIG THANK YOU FOR THE MONTH OF THANKSGIVING!!!
WOW! We were able to feed 46 families in our last distribution. We want to thank all of those that helped with set up, distribution
and donations. Without all of you, this ministry could not happen. Sincerely, John Ostovich and Alfredo Russo.
**TAKE NOTE: Those who normally volunteer are encouraged to contact John Ostovich so the changes can be described and
outlined for you. We are limiting the number of people who are in the building at any given time for the preparation of the
distributions.
*At this time our Food Pantry is functioning as a 'life-sustaining' part of our church's ministries, though we will be following the
CDC's guidelines in this ministry as well and will continually be reevaluating how to keep any volunteers and neighbors safe. Our
Director, John Ostovich, is providing excellent leadership to make sure this is the case.
*Distribution of food is being limited to drive up/pick up service only.
***Needs for December: Boxed Stuffing mix, canned vegetables, cranberry sauce, potatoes, staples for a Christmas dinner.
Distribution dates:
December 12th: From 10:00 am to noon. This will also be the CHRISTmas dinner items distribution day December 26th: From 10:00 am to noon. January 9th and 23rd, 2021: From 10:00 am to noon.
Egg Cartons: The pantry is in need of empty egg cartons. Them chickens at the Garden of Giving are still popping out those eggs!
We don’t know exactly what Tammy is doing to those hens, but they are making eggs like nobodies business!! So don’t throw them
out! Bring them in and we will put them to good use. Ckuckity cluck!
Volunteers: The SFRC continues to need your help! Wouldn’t you just love to help them out? We are seeking volunteers to assist
with unloading vehicles, putting items in storage areas and restocking. We could also utilize a volunteer or two to pick up at BJ’s
once a week on Pantry weeks. (This is an urgent need!) Opportunities are available Monday through Friday. Please see John
Ostovich or Alfredo Russo for additional information. We only need a few hours of your time, a few days per month at the most.
John Ostovich and Alfredo Russo are the Co-Directors of the Food Pantry. You can contact them at [email protected] or 570-629-
1890 ext 109
THE GARDEN OF GIVING… and giving and giving and giving some more, these people keep giving and giving galore!
(Located off route 715, 4 miles from WAWA in McMichaels Hillside Terrace on the right Hillside drive.
December/January UPDATE
The Garden thanks Linda Snyder Orchard for their yearly contribution of apples for the food pantry; volunteers pick, clean and pack
the fruit and then distribute it to several pantries to share. This bounty adds to the many other high-density nutrition foods which The
Garden provides.
Even though the harvest in and the garden has gone into winter sleep please remember that the office remains open at Your
Service ReMax Realty, on Rt 115 in Effort, thanks to their generous donation of office space. To contact The Garden of Giving by
phone: 570-402-1282, or email [email protected]. See us on FB also or at the website theGardenOfGiving.org
The Garden is located in Saylorsburg, off Rt. 715 at 2556 Rising Hill Drive. The Garden of Giving is a non-profit 501©3 tax
deductible organization.
2020 has been another great year, and we look forward to a great Summer of 2021. Remember, the outdoors is great for you and good
for the soul!
Well folks as the year marches on so does our lovely gal in the office. Faithfully carrying out her duties and
keeping things going no matter what that darn COVID throws at us she is not going to let this church run off the
rails! She remains a merry ole elf in her office with a ready smile, word of kind support or a prayer or two. I hope
you realize that her presence is one of the best presents we can get this CHRISTmas and the greatest thing is…
She lasts all year long!
.Just another thingy or two from the office for you, to see…. To know…. to have…. or to do!
Church office: Hours may be slightly adjusted. It is recommended that an appointment be made so to ensure
accessibility. Additionally, at this time all coming to the church building are to adhere to CDC guidelines (hand sanitizing when
entering and face masks
Church office will be closed: December 24th (CHRISTMAS Eve) December 25th (Celebrating our Savior’s birth) January 1st 2020 (New Year’s Day).
COVID – 19 UPDATES AND RESTRICTIONS and where to find our services. Check your email frequently
for updates as well as CORONAVIRUS.GOV for the latest on the national level. Be mindful to adhere to the
directives of your state and local authorities. The COVID mojo is workin its way out.
***Remember to practice frequent hand washing, keep your hands away from your face, sneeze or cough into
a tissue or elbow (throw tissue out immediately) and frequently disinfect used items and surfaces as much as
possible. If you have a mask, wear it if you go out in public.
And do not forget to pray without ceasing, practice acts of kindness, patience and love whenever you can.
Pastors CHRISTMAS Gift: We are collecting for our Pastors’ Christmas Gift. If you would like to contribute a monetary gift
towards a gift for Pastor Robin and Pastor Ken, please enclose your gift in an envelope and place in the offering box by December
15th . The gifts will be given out at the December 20th services. Thank You!
Pull Down Window: FREE!! The Trustees have a roll up/down metal window (similar to that of the one in the
Food Pantry) available to anyone who may want/need it. Contact Marv Aylsworth at: maylswoth.pa.metrocast.net
Upper Room Devotionals: Just a reminder that the Upper Room Devotionals are located in the back of the Narthex. To help offset
some of the costs, a donation of $1.25 for the smaller books and $1.50 for the large print is requested. Thank you.
Try to remember this peeps! The alarm system is fully operational. If you have access to the system, please ensure you
are prepared to arm/disarm the system when entering and/or exiting the Church. This IS extremely important as activities
at the Church are resuming. Setting off the alarm 3 or more times may cause us to be fined. If you have questions, please
call the church office.
Recycling: Please be mindful when attending church and church events that we do recycle plastics (including
bottles), glass and cardboard and to use the appropriate recycling bins located in both Wesley and Friendship Halls.
Please DO NOT throw in the regular trash or garbage cans. Thank you.
Christian Education
(Getting into God’s word and staying there is good for the mind, body, & soul!)
2 Timothy 3:14-17 “ But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All
Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION at EUMC
BODY BUILDING & SUNDAY SCHOOL Any questions or concerns, please see Brenda Mitchell, Christian
Education Director. In house Sunday School is meeting during the 11:15am service.
Classes are set up as follows: Body Building: children who will be age 3 on or before September 1st; Pre-teens: children who will be age 9 on or before September 1st; and Teens: Children who will be age 12 on or before September 1st, Classes are held during the 11:00 am services.
We will have one onsite class a month for each age group at the church. The class will be held in Wesley hall,
with each child having their own sanitized table, six feet from each other. They will all have their own
supplies that they will need for safety precautions. They will all be asked to wear a mask, (please let me know
if this presents a problem for your child.) If you are not comfortable with sending your child, that is no
problem because the lesson will be repeated virtually during the week.
*** Christian Education for our youth has changed! Miss Brenda has sent out a schedule for when (in person) classes are held as well
as those classes that will be held via Zoom. For the month of November, the schedule is as follows:
Below is the schedule for December 2020 and January 2021 (Note: This IS a two month schedule)
Sunday, December 13th – TEENS, Wesley Hall at 11:15am report directly to Wesley Hall
Monday, December 14th - BODY BUILDING, Zoom at 6pm
Wednesday, December 16th - PRE-TEENS & TEENS, Zoom at 6 pm
Sunday, December 20th - PRE-TEENS, Wesley Hall at 11:15 am report directly to Wesley Monday, December 21st —BODY
BUILDING, Zoom at 6pm
Wednesday, December 23rd - PRE-TEENS & TEENS, Zoom at 6pm
Sunday, December 27th - BODY BUIDLING, Wesley Hall at 11:15am report directly to WH
Monday, December 28th - BODY BUILDING, Zoom at 6 pm
Wednesday, December 30th - PRE-TEENS & TEENS, Zoom at 6pm
SUNDAY SCHOOL SCHEDULE CONTINUED:
Sunday, January 10th – TEENS, Wesley Hall at 11:15am report directly to Wesley Hall
Monday, January 11th - BODY BUILDING, Zoom at 6pm
Wednesday, January 13th - PRE-TEENS & TEENS, Zoom at 6 pm
Sunday, January 17th - PRE-TEENS, Wesley Hall at 11:15 am report directly to Wesley Monday, January 18th —BODY BUILDING,
Zoom at 6pm
Wednesday, January 20th - PRE-TEENS & TEENS, Zoom at 6pm
Sunday, January 24th - BODY BUIDLING, Wesley Hall at 11:15am report directly to WH
Monday, January 25th - BODY BUILDING, Zoom at 6 pm
Wednesday, January 27th - PRE-TEENS & TEENS, Zoom at 6pm
Please contact Brenda with any questions or concerns you may have with regard to Christian Education. She can be reached at
[email protected] or by calling 570-629-1890 ext. 104.
CHRISTmas Eve Live Nativity: Miss Brenda, with the support of Administrative Council and our Pastors, is
planning a live Nativity program for the 6:00 pm CHRISTmas Eve Service. This program will be held in the
Pavilion on the 24th of December. We are looking for the youth to participate in this outdoor program. Please contact
Brenda as soon as possible to sign up for roles/parts and confirm your child(ren) interest in participating/attending.
Plans we have thus far:
• Information and practice will occur during Sunday School classes (social distancing will be a priority)
• All youth will wear their coats under the customs
• Parents are to pick up the costume for their child(ren) by December 20th. We would like the children to be dressed when they
arrive on the 24th. Contact Brenda to make arrangements for the pick up.
• Children are to be at the church at 5:45 pm (meeting outside by the Pavilion)
• Six large heaters have been made available for the church to use to help with the temperature if too cold
• Families will place decorations on the tree (one family at a time)
• Hot chocolate and cookies will be available and all safety precautions will be taken when preparing and distributing these
items. These items will be taken home to enjoy!
We are asking everyone to bring their own lawn chair to this service so that we are not having to take out folding chairs and
sanitize them afterwards.
Confirmation classes have concluded. A date for the service has yet to be set. Keep watch for additional information.
The Basement Bunch: (AKA The Basement Brunch). This adult Sunday School Class is held on Sunday mornings at 10am. Come
on in and join us for a good lesson from the Word of God and some coffee treats. All are invited to attend.
Seekers: A study during Advent entitled “Advent of the Savior” began on November 30th. The cost of the book is $5.85. To sign up
for this new book, please call the church office. Also please note that there will be no Seekers classes held on December 28, 2020
and January 4, 2021. Classes are expected to resume on Monday, January 11, 2020 at 10:00 am in Wesley Hall.
Tuesday evening interactive in home study: This is a year-round, on-going Bible study that meets unless other-wise noted.
Need more info, directions or to be sure they are meeting, please call: 570-619-5483. PHYSICAL GATHERING IS ON HOLD UNTIL
FURTHER NOTICE. WE ARE MEETING VIA ZOOM AND AN EMAIL INVITE IS SENT OUT EACH TUESDAY TO
PARTICIPANTS. If you would like to attend please call Sue Johnson and give her your email address so you can be invited to zoom
in.
Poinsettias are red, Forget me nots blue,
Studying the bible, Is so good for you!
Can I get an AMEN!!!
Mark your calendar for these events for December 2020 and January 2021
****** PLEASE TAKE NOTE: THOUGH THERE WILL BE DATES AND TIMES HERE ALL ARE TENTATIVE AND WILL BE
ADJUSTED ACCORDING TO THE GUIDELINES FOR THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK. SOME ACTIVITIES HAVE STARTED TO
RESUME AS WE REOPENED TO GATHER FOR WORSHIP, ACTIVITIES AND MINISTRIES.
CHRISTMAS Poinsettias: Last day to order your poinsettias for CHRISTmas is December 2nd (absolute last
day). For your convenience there is an order form at the end of the newsletter with extra copies on the Welcome
Center. The Poinsettias this year will be white. A 6 inch pot is $10.00 while at 7 ½ pot is $20.00. For additional
information on pick up date, etc., please see the order form. Please make your payment out to Effort United
Methodist Church and mark the check/envelope with “CHRISTmas flowers.”
Angel Tree: The “Angel Tree” is now up and in the Narthex. This year we have 25 “Angels” that we are
supporting through PVEN. If you would like to take an “Angel” please be reminded to bring the
UNWRAPPED gifts back to the church with the child’s number on the gift(s) no later than
Thursday, December 3rd, 2020 by noon. The church representative must have the gifts delivered to PVEN
between 8:00 am and 12:00 pm on December 4th. Thank you for sharing in God’s love!
The season of the Christian year we are currently in is called Advent. Maybe this year is
a good time for a review of what it is and means…..
ADVENT 2020 Advent is the season, a period of four weeks beginning the first Sunday after Thanksgiving (Nov. 29th) and ending with
CHRISTmas eve (Dec. 24th). The word is derived from the Latin word “adventus” which means “coming”. We are to
make this time/season a purposeful expectation for the coming of Jesus into the world as an infant child and the Savior of
that world. Though we are preparing all kinds of get togethers and gift giving we are not to make it a frantic time of
meeting secular demands, but of settling our hearts and minds on the fact that He came once and that He will come again.
But when He comes again, he will not be an infant child in a stable, but the Lion of Judah coming to take His throne.
The colors for the season are Purple or blue. Purple symbolizes both penitence (repentance) and royalty. Blue is the color of hope.
The visuals will include an Advent wreath, which you will find stationed at the front of our church. It will have 3 purple candles and
one pink; each assigned a meaning. (Hope, Peace, Joy, Love) Evergreens, in the form of a tree or garlands, symbolize the cross/tree on
which our Savior was crucified. Trumpets may also be used as a symbol of announcement; the announcement of his birth and the
Poinsettia, which in red represent His blood, and in white His purity.
Some churches even put up what is called a Chrismon Tree, which is a tree that is decorated with white and gold Chrismons
(ornaments based on the signs or symbols for Christ, such as Alpha and Omega, Chi Rho and Ichthys (pronounced Ick-thuse) which is
the side lying fish. The ornaments are typically Styrofoam, cardboard or felt.
Pine bows will and Fir will represent He is ever lasting as they are ever green and holly is for the death of Jesus while ivy would
represent resurrection.
A Jesse Tree would speak of the Messiah as a shoot from the “stump of Jesse” the father of King David. This kind of tree is decorated
with symbols of Christ’s ancestors. A ram for Abraham, a ladder for Jacob, a burning bush and stone tablets for Moses, a lyre for
David and a fish for Jonah.
Each Sunday in Advent we will light a different candle. Each will have its’ own meaning.
The season of Advent began for us on Sunday, November 29th, 2020 and we lit the first candle and we
celebrated the HOPE of Advent.
The rest of the weeks are as follows.
December 6th 2020: Second Week of Advent – Peace
In preparation read Isaiah 9:6-7 The second candle is a symbol of the Prince of Peace. Our world is not always a peaceful
world. People hurt other people. Countries are at war today. People don’t take care of the world. People yell and scream at other
people. But God promises peace. During Advent, we pray that we, as well as all people, will seek God’s peace
December 13th: Third Week of Advent – Joy
(Note: Some Advent wreaths may have one pink candle. The pink candle is always lit on the third Sunday of Advent and traditionally
means “joy.” If your wreath has a pink candle, light this as the third candle this week.)
One thing that sometimes happens as we get ready to celebrate Jesus’ birth is we expect to be happy all the time. Joy is not the same
as happy. Joy is a deeper felling created by knowing that God cares for us. Joy is remembering that God sent Jesus so we would
always know of God’s care.
December 20th: Fourth Week of Advent – Love
When we look at the fourth candle, we remember God’s love. When we read the words of Scripture, we know of God’s
greatness and care. We remember God’s love at Advent when we remember that God sent Jesus to us to help us to know that God is
loving and just.
One verse that many memorize and remember on this day is John 3:16, “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son
that whoever believes in him will not perish, but have everlasting life.”
December 24th: AHHHH! IT IS CHRISTmas EVE!!!! CHRISTmas EVE SERVICES: Effort UMC will be providing four (4)
different services on CHRISTmas Eve. The first service at 4:00 pm is a service of _?????_ 6:00 pm is a Family Service of
Celebration (our children provide a reenactment of the CHRISTmas Story) outdoors in the Pavilion. At 8:00 pm is a service with our
Choir (Primarily music). The last service at 11:00 pm is a service of Lessons and Carols (scripture lessons are read with hymns being
played). All the services are candlelight services. Come join us at one or all four (4) of the services, remembering Jesus is the reason
for the season. Reminder, registration is recommended due to the limited space available as a result of COVID 19 and the CDC and
State Guidelines.
Tuesday, December 25, 2018 – CHRISTmas Day!!! Our Savior is born! Our waiting is over! Alleluia! Amen!
This is the day where we light the Christ candle. It is the white candle in the center of our Advent wreath. When we light this
candle, we remember Jesus’ birth into our world.
Now is a good thought: Maybe this year when you gather to celebrate you can read aloud the Christmas story as a family or even if you are on your own. You can find it in Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1–2.
January 1st is New Years Day! 2021 will arrive and God only knows what that will bring! Lets’ pray for a
blessed, peaceful and healthy year ahead!
Did someone say there is ANOTHER SOUP SALE!? It will run from 1/5/20 to 1/15/20. Type is to be
determined. (who cares what it is!!! It will be a total delish fest.) Woot! Woot! Be on the “lookout” for more
information in the church bulletin.
Fellowship Breakfast: Will resume as soon as the gathering of people can safely occur inside the church. Usually
the breakfasts are held on the second Sunday morning of each month from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. You can call me Cathy or even Crazy Kate! But when calling for this breakfast, DO NOT EVER call me late!!
Tie a string onto your finger. Go do it now and do not linger. To remind you to save and mark the dates, for things going on around this place. You don’t want to miss a thing, now go, and tie that little string.
SOME LOCAL DOODLE DO’S THAT YOU MIGHT LIKE TO SEE OR DO!
(PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU GO… WE ARE UNDER PARTIAL QUARANTINE YOU KNOW!)
VALOR Stand Down Days: When: 1st and 3rd Friday of every month from 2pm to 6pm. Where: Paul’s House, 1130
Scenic Drive (Intersection of 534 & Jonas Road. Free food, clothes & housing referrals for the homeless
veterans. EVERYONE IS WELCOME. Volunteers and donations are needed. FMI call 570-664-6468 or 570-369-3797.
Valor needs Men’s jeans: If you have new or gently used (no rips or tears) men’s jeans and would like to donate them,
Valor is in need of them. A green tote has been placed in the Narthex as a collection area for the jeans. They are also
looking for socks and underwear as well…. NOT USED PULLEEZE! ;-) We thank you and so will they. Wink! Wink!
TOALC: Are you retired and looking for something to do? Not really into the "Senior Center" thing. Interested in learning new things, talking about
current events, studying Shakespeare's Sonnets, bird watching or many other activities. TOALC (The Older Adult Learning Center) is a wonderful
group of "older adults" who want to keep body and mind active. There are many courses to choose from and classes are right in East Stroudsburg and
meet once a week for about two hours. The best part, $45/ session allows you to sign up for as many classes as you want. Classes are free, however
some may require a small supply/book purchase. And there's trips, for a reasonable fee to places like Longwood Gardens and Ellis Island. The
registration deadline for the next session is coming up so pick up your brochure from the rack by the office and check out what they have to offer.
For more information please see Kathy Cleveland or give her a call at 570-992-6306.
ECHO (affiliated with Women’s Resources of Monroe County) is a gently used woman’s clothing store. All proceeds benefit victims of domestic
violence and sexual assault in Monroe County. Located on Ann Street in downtown Stroudsburg (across from the Ribbon Factory) Hours: Monday-
Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This is a resale shop of fine women’s clothing & accessories. Check them out, get
some nice clothing and support a great cause.
POCONO PANDAS (Prayer Acceptance Nurturing Develops Awesome Spirit)
PANDAS: Youth Group meetings are held on the second Monday of the month as scheduling permits from 6:00 to 8:00 pm..
The next meetings for the Cubbies are: TBA (presently on hold. Pastor Ken and Theresa Mayo will be in touch with the parents)
Reminder: PANDAS is for those in 5th grade and up
Cubbies is for those in 1st grade to 4th grade
*****REACH Missions Trip 2021: Thank you all who have been supporting the Missions team. We will be working on scheduling a Mission Trip
for 2021.
****To all who have outstanding monies for this fundraiser, we would appreciate it if you would turn the money into the church by drop off and/or
through the mail. If there is anyone who would like more bars or a box to sell, please contact Brenda Mitchell. We have a few left and hope to sell to
put towards the next mission trip. Thank you!
Music Notes (Please come for these toe tapping, ear tickling, hands clapping, spirit lifting, voices rising, Jesus praising, worship events!)
THE EUMC CHOIR – Doe, ray, me, fa, so, la, tee, doe! Well, due to the “restrictions” we are unable to meet for rehearsals at this
time. If you are interested in joining the choir you will need to contact Dan. When we are able to meet again you can meet with
Dan for an informal hi how are you and a little audition. You will need to set up that meeting with him. (He can find the place that
is pitch perfect for you!)
*****Please take a moment to thank Dan, Stacy, Steve and Susan for providing us with the lovely special music they are
providing for us each week. Be sure to tell them that their harmonies are music to your ears!!
****CHECK OUT OUR EUMC CHOIR WEBSITE: If you want to see what the choir is up to, or access our rehearsal calendar
please visit our website at http://churchchoir.info or contact Dan Smale - [email protected] - (570) 350-5668
THE YOUTH CHOIR: We are not holding rehearsals at this time. Keep an eye on the weekly announcements for
a date when we will resume. We would normally practice Sunday mornings at 10:15 am. Thank you.
Bring your friends, family, neighbors, & anyone else you can think of who might enjoy our music ministry.
Card Showers
Florence Brinkley: 376 Upper Ridge Drive, Effort, PA 18330
Doris Oakley: 383 Warner Drive, Saylorsburg, PA 18353
Hilda Altemose: 1852 Astolat Rd. Effort PA 18330
Virgie Christman: 626 Fairgrounds Rd. Gilbert PA 18331
Ethel Zipp: 2514 Chestnut St. Brodheadsville PA 18322
Doris Tagliaferri: c/o Linda Love, 115 Mallory Lane, Oxford, PA 19363-2723
Ruth Oaks: 1202 Spring Run Road, Saylorsburg, PA Allen & Phyllis Conklin: PO Box 590, Effort, PA 18330 Lucille Smith: 1308 Brian Lane, Effort, PA 18330
Fritz & JoAnn Daube: PO Box 584, Lot 136 Hidden Hollow Lane, Kresgeville, PA 18333
Rosalie Juris (Moving to York PA) c/o Gregg Juris, 806 Arbor Lane, York, PA 17406
Take a moment and send a note, to offer love support and hope So they will know they’re in our prayers and that, of course, we care. It will bring JOY into their day to know, that we, for them do pray,
In peace and rest they’ll be embraced as we hold them in God’s grace.
A little note… a text…. a call…. A grateful heart recieves them all!
Let’s keep the following in our hearts as they have moved away, are home bound, are in retirement homes, care
homes, nursing homes or rehabilitation centers.
Margaret Milasch: 15 Sei Pike Lane, Lehighton, PA 18235
Florence Frantz: 315 Frantz Road, Brodheadsville, PA 18322
Matthew Wells, Rose and Paul Rodenbacher, Mr. Swavely, Krista Gouger, Al & Phyllis Conklin, Bob Polly, Ed
Lindaberry, Wayne Halliday, Loretta, Sonny & Dolores Comody, Jonah, Mildred Mitchell, Carl Falco, Kay
Charbonnier Samantha Cavallone, Doris Tagliaferri, Connie Suttles, Doris Oakley, Joyce Castile, Judy, Debbie and
Jim
***Pray daily for these folks: all healthcare workers, first responders and all frontline professionals working with the
ill, all those working to quell and eliminate COVID-19, All those whose jobs require them to be in contact with the public and of course all those
who are suffering from the virus and their families.
Please keep the following service men & women in your daily prayers: Major Earl Evans, Maj. Howard Hiestand US
Army, Major Ed Caudell-US Army/Fort Braggs, Major Karyn Caudell, US Army Reserves, Spec. Sam Michlavsky-US
Army/Afghanistan, Cpt. Mark Crimaldi-2nd Calvary Regiment, Afghanistan, Thomspon-USAF/Mountain Air Force Base, Idaho.
Lance Corporal James C. Suttles V/MM 265 AirframeUnit 37239FPO, AP 96372-7239. LTC Michael Jochen 363 Warner Drive,
Saylorsburg, PA 18353
“Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friends” John 15:13
Finally some space to play in, oh joy rapture! How’s ‘bout a weird tradition or two aye?
Lets’ begin at home shall we? Around this time of year there is a HUGE Santa gathering in NYC. New Yorkers get together dressed
up from head to toe as CHRISTmas characters. The city is filled with Santas’ and Elves to spread the holiday cheer during what they
call “Santa Con”. (Now my dears, surely there is no excessive partaking in libations during this gathering or else we would have to
call it CHRISTmas “cheers”. Alas, I think that is probably a better fit. Ho! Ho! Ho! My goodness!)
In Norway they do this crazy tradition with brooms…. Yup brooms. The superstition goes that if you do not hide your broom on
CHRISTmas Eve evil spirits will rise from their graves and use them to fly through the sky wreaking havoc until dawn. (So I am
thinking maybe Norway has CHRISTMAS and Halloween mixed up somehow. I am also thinking that marijuana is legal there so that
just might have something to do with such nonsense…. Just sayen)
Here is a funny one… The Japanese do not eat traditional ham or turkey for their holiday meal, they eat fried chicken! You heard it
here, Colonel Saunders KFC is plucked clean during CHRISTmas even though only 1% of the population is Christian. (Isn’t
marketing grand!!?)
Happy Birthday Blessings for December 2020 and January 2021
Happy birthday to you. To Jesus be true. May all of Gods’ blessing abide upon you! Happy Birthday everyone!!
12/01 Pat Mackes
12/03 Glenn Yetter, Helen Correll
12/04 Douglas Tavella, Kiera Jochen
12/05 Henry Wheeler
12/06 George Dennis
12/07 Chace Zamorsky, Sarah Lassen
12/08 Melissa Roberti
12/11 Rhonda Sawyer, Cortney Zamorsky
12/12 Danny Demaio
12/14 Jill Yetter
12/15 Tonya Kemp
12/21 Theresa Mayo
12/22 Amara Wheeler, Peyton Laxton
12/25 Happy Birthday Jesus! & Jacqueline Audett. Blow the trumpets loud! We have 2
CHRISTmas babies!!! 12/26 Rena Baumgartner
12/27 Wanda Bonser
12/28 Judy Bush
12/30 James Silverburg
12/31 Rebecca Kuc, Kayden Sabella
January
01/01 Vaneeda Wheeler. Set off some horns and fireworks we have a New Year baby!!! 01/03 Joseph Mitchell
01/04 Haley White, Kenneth Deemer
01/08 Heidi Engle, Marie Young
01/09 Erica Gower
01/10 Victoria Schellman, Sophia Skala
01/11 Robert Robinson
01/13 John Frost
01/14 Mel Oxenreider, Jr.
01/16 Adele Argot, Julie Foley
01/17 Dawn Francis
01/19 Brenda Davis, Lisa Oxenreider
01/20 Arlene Burger, Philip Borys
01/22 Pearl Reiss
01/23 Peter Edwards
01/26 Lorie Tavella, Rosie Ianniello
01/2 Sheri Seip
01/29 Mertise Wolfe, Gabriel Everett
01/31 Caitlin Pierson-Bonser
Early February
02/01 Connor Beam
02/02 Lee Fink III
02/03 Lindsey Possinger
02/05 Ann Sanders
02/06 Paul Atherton
02/07 Jean Deemer
***In the event you are aware that a birthday is not listed and/or there is one listed of someone who is deceased or no longer attending
church, please so advise so that our records can be updated. Thank you.
Make Room
Following bight yonder star,
The Wisemen came from lands afar,
To se a tiny heavenly stranger,
In a lowly manger.
Nestled among the ox and sheep,
The Lord of all lay fast asleep’
Swaddled in rags and pulled raw wool,
In the mid winter, silent and still.
No trumpets marked the blessed birth,
And few came to welcome him to earth,
While Mary and Joseph humble and poor,
Received God’s gift with great joy.
And shepherds while watching their flocks by night,
Were first beckoned to go see the precious sight.
The king himself as an infant lowly,
Yet a miracle blessed and holy.
And strangely unnoticed he came down to us,
To Bethlehem bustling about its’ business.
At the time, for Him, there just was no room,
Though His arrival obvious and soon.
Relegated to a dirty cattle trough,
Our Emmanuel left heavenly realms aloft,
To bring His mercy, peace and grace,
To all upon this place.
And somewhere in the back of all of our minds.
We store these truths of Him divine,
And may give Him a thought as we rush and run,
In our efforts to get it all done.
Have our lives become just like “The Inn”?,
Where we have no room or time for Him?
And so filled with the business of the season,
We don’t celebrate the real reason.
Can we bring Jesus to our celebrating?
Can we see Him in our decorating?
Can we hear him knocking deep inside?
And throw the door to our lives open wide?
Can we take it down a peg or two?
And let Christs light in and then let it shine through?
Can we welcome the peace and forgiveness He brings?
While Christmas bells joyfully ring?
Let us give Him the glory He rightly deserves,
Take on His likeness and live to serve,
For our Christmas is truly all times of the year,
In the hearts of those who hold Jesus dear.
So make merry, give gifts and hang twinkle lights,
Play music and dance, enjoy all sounds and sights
Place each lovely ornament right where it should be,
Remembering that Jesus, for you, was hung on a tree.
Cathy Wells
Editors note: It is CHRISTmas again! My prayer is that we embrace the true reason for the season and try to not get all caught up in
the secularism and mayhem. Let’s practice being Mary instead of Martha and take time to sit at the feet of Jesus and take His word to
heart. I personally am making a very conscious effort to take many pauses during this crazy time in history and in this busy season, to
meditate on what an amazing gift christ gave to us. I pray you will too make room. In great joy of Him who saves. Cathy
The funny thing is… This really does look like me at deadline time and one of the reasons is that the Lord NEVER
gives the poem by deadline day…. ARGGGH! That guy has quite a sense of humor. (Which I do not always appreciate….) *** The
deadline for the February newsletter is on or before January 25th 2020. Feel free to contact me by phone, 610-
381-4703 or email [email protected]. Whatever you send I will get it in here for all to see. I would promise to try not to mess
with them too much, but who am I kidding? You know that I am gonna mess with everything! And I don’t feel bad about it at all! I
really don’t! Whooptie doodle doo!
EUMC BUSINESS DIRECTORY
(Just minding our own businesses…. Yup, I really said that.)
903 Landscape Supply Marie Conklin Young Studio of Piano & Voice
For all your landscape needs 1321 Meixsell Valley Road
1939 State Route 903 Saylorsburg PA 18353
Jim Thorpe PA 18220 570-992-2087 or 570-856-0967
570-325-2903
FX 570-325-8113 The Hoffman Insurance Agency
Nita Nydam and Greg Magill 1501 Route 209
Brodheadsville, PA 18322
Melalueca The wellness company 570-992-6495
Tom Conklin 570-872-6421
WWW. Melaleuca.com Creative Memories
[email protected] PO Box 729 Saylorsburg PA 18353
Susan Yetter Creative Memories Consultant
Melalueca Wellness Products 570-992-0247 [email protected]
Susan Yetter Photo safe albums and supplies, group presentations
#570-992-0247
[email protected] Effort Woodcraft Inc. (Cabinets, millwork and more) Thomas J. Conklin VP
PO Box 950 Evergreen Hollow Road
Saylorsburg Lumber Effort PA 18330
Quality Building Products 570-629-1160 Fx 570-629-6613 cell 570-872-6421
Full service lumber yard [email protected]
Lumber, window screen replacement, WWW.EWCAB.NET
Hardware, masonry supplies
Glenn W Yetter
# 570-992-3700
Fx 570-992-3275
DID YOU KNOW??? The church address is: PO Box 545, Effort PA 18330-0545 Phone 570-629-1890. In case of an emergency, outside of the normal church office hours (Mon-Fri., 9:30am – 2:30pm) you can reach Pastor Robin at 570-534-4588 by phone, or by email at
[email protected] Pastor Robin’s address is 122 E. Plainfield Avenue, Pen Argyl PA 18072 TAKE NOTE & PASS IT ON! We pass on all kinds of things every day! (Smiles, information, germs…) Why not PASS ON your newsletter to
someone who does NOT go to EUMC when you are done with it and have marked your calendar with the special dates! You could send it on to
your local email buddies so they can see what we are up to or you could even take your hard copy and give it to a neighbor who doesn’t go to
church. With each PASS IT ON you can attach a little invitation to an event that you would attend with them or even just suggest they come to a
service with you. What a great way to bring new people into the family here. We can’t keep all this great stuff to ourselves. We’ll burst at the
seams!!!!!!!!!! Now get out there and tell everyone you meet!!!
THE EUMC PRE-SCHOOL: This is canceled for the 2020-2021 school year. Pending restrictions we will consider
reopening in the fall of 2021. Gail Regina, Preschool Director at 570-629-1890 ext. 201.
Make a visit to our website; WWW.Effortumc.org
Seriously… GO NOW! Don’t wait another minute!! You’re gonna love it and us!
We have a Facebook page too so check that out Effort United Methodist Church and give us a “Like”!
Ding Dong! Ding Dong! CHRISTmas bells are ringing! Well my dear ones the Christmas season is
upon us and it is already chocked full of to, to go, to buy, to see, to hear, to read, to write, to send
and so on and so on…. I decided we all may need a break post haste and so I have compiled a leetle
list of the old favorite CHRISTmas movies that you may want to make sure you see this season. All
of them are from a simpler time when “things” just didn’t seem as important and there were not
the distractions of electronics bombarding us at every turn. Now I realize that a TV is an electronic
device…. But I think if you gather a few friends or family together or maybe just yourself, cook up
some popcorn and sit still while snuggled under your favorite blanket these just may bring back a
little bit of CHRISTmas past….
It’s a Wonderful life
The CHRISTmas Story
Miracle on 34th St
A CHRISTmas Carol
White CHRISTmas
How the Grinch Stole CHRISTmas
And any of your own favorites!
A CHRISTMAS Prayer For Us All
Cathy Wells
Our world is full of things to worry about, but your Word dear Lord in Matthew 6:25-34 tells us not to do so. Peace
seems to not be the prevalent feeling throughout your world these days. Revive your church oh great Father in heaven
and make CHRISTmas real in our hearts. We want your joy! We need your peace! We crave your love! Never have we
needed Jesus more than we do now. It is as if we are in the times of Noah. Thank you for sending Jesus as the gift of
salvation. He IS our Emmanuel, God with us, the Word made flesh to dwell among His very creation. Remind us Lord
that your love never changes, never fails or fades and that your purpose for coming down to us was to save us from our
sinful selves and give us life eternal with you. Renew a right Spirit within. Bring back the security we have in knowing
you are in control and remain upon the throne. Restore our relationship with you oh Holy God as at times we do go
astray. We joyfully anticipate the celebration of the birth of our only begotten Son Lord Jesus. We know that “At the
name of Jesus every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Philippians 210-11. What an amazing and glorious day that will be! We long to see you face to face and have every tear
wiped from our eyes. Though we wrestle with many forces both in the world and beyond that are moving away from and
going against you, the very Word of truth, we sill not deny you and who you are. You are no longer the babe in the
manger. You are King of Kings, Lord of Lords, the Alpha and Omega, the one and only and we confess YOU and
celebrate YOU as Lord God Almighty at CHRISTmas and always! In Christ we offer this prayer. Amen.
Have a blessed, joyful and love filled CHRISTmas and a wonderful Happy New Year!
Time to order your Christmas Poinsettia’s
Fill out form below (please print clearly) and include check (payable to EUMC) or cash, put in offering envelope marked
CHRISTmas Flowers and place it in the collection plate. All prepaid orders are due by December 2nd. All flowers may
be taken home after church service on December 29th. Please note: Flowers left after Monday, December 27th will be given
to local nursing homes or shut-ins. Additional order forms are located at the Welcome Center.
Number of plants Amount
_____6 1/2” pot (5-7 flowers)@ $10.00 each $________
_____7 1/2” pot (10-12 flowers) @ $20.00 each $________
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $____________
**Please print clearly – Thank You!**
GIVEN BY _____________________________________________
IN HONOR OF _________________________________________
IN MEMORY OF ________________________________________
***ADDITIONAL ORDERS MAY BE WRITTEN ON BACK***
Electronic giving. A convenient, consistent way to help our church grow
Enjoy the convenience of electronic giving
Our church offers electronic giving, which allows you to make donations on a scheduled, automatic basis. If you are writing checks
and preparing envelopes every week, you will especially appreciate electronic giving. It is convenient for you and provides much-
needed donation consistency for our church.
***How to get started: To set up electronic contributions complete the authorization form below and return it to the church office.
***Electronic contributions can be made with any of the following: Checking account, Savings account or Debit card.
Authorization Form Church name: Effort United Methodist Church____________________________ Your Name:________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip:_____________________________________________________ Email Address:_____________________________________________________ I would like to make the following contribution(s): __ General Operating Fund $________ Date of first Contribution: _______________
Frequency of contribution (check one): ___ Weekly (Mondays) ___ Semi-monthly-1st and 15th ___ Monthly on the 1st ___ Monthly on the 15th (Note: most cost effective is monthly)
CHECKING/SAVINGS: Complete this section if using your checking or savings account
Please debit my (check one): ____Checking account-attach voided check
____Savings account-attach voided deposit slip Routing #_______________________Account # ________________________ Valid routing # must start with 0,1,,2,3 I authorize the above organization to process debit entries to the above account. I understand that this authority will remain in effect until I provide reasonable notification to terminate the authorization. Authorized signature: ____________________________ Date___________
DEBIT CARD: Complete this section if using your debit card ___Please charge my debit card Card #: __________________________________ Expiration date:_____ Name on card: Billing Address (if different from above): _________________________ _______________________________________________ I authorize the above organization to charge the above card. I understand that this authority will remain in effect until I provide reasonable notification to terminate the
authorization. Authorized signature_________________________________Date:________
