“Making disciples of Jesus that transform the world.” Inside This Issue:
Pastor’s Letter
Kitchen Update
Because We Are
Family . . .
Bob Evans Day Flyer
415 W. Greene Street,
Piqua, Ohio 45356
(937) 773-5313
Fax (937) 773-5397
www.greenestreetumc.org
Pastor Kenneth A. Stewart
Wednesday, April 9—Easter Egg Hunt
6:30 p.m. Infants through 6th grade, Bring a Basket! Everyone will meet in the Sanctuary at 6:30 p.m. Don’t be late! Each group will be assigned a different location. After the Easter Egg Hunt everyone will reassemble in Wilson Hall (Gym) for concluding words.
Sunday, April 13—Palm Sunday
9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. services with Palms. Introducing the choir at the 9:00 service.
Thursday, April 17—Maundy Thursday
We will celebrate the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper at 7 p.m.
Friday, April 18—Good Friday
12:00 p.m. Community Good Friday Service at True Vine Church (531 W. Ash Street)
Sunday, April 20—Easter Sunday
9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. services
Page 2
Killing Jesus, by Rev. Kenneth A. Stewart
Many have recommended Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard’s book, Killing Jesus: A History (New York, NY: Henry Holt and Company, 2013). I’ve slowly made my way through this enlightening work and have appreciated the historical details surrounding the events of Jesus’ life and death. It is particularly meaningful to read during the Lenten season and has prepared my heart for Jesus’ passion. Here are a few observations from this work I’d like to pass on as we near Holy Week:
The First Century was riddled with tension.
Everywhere you looked in the First Century, there were stark differences. Such drastically different religious and political worldviews often gave rise to heated conflicts often resulting in the slaying of innocent lives. Although the Jews and Romans worked to ease the tensions between the two groups, political manipulation was rampant, deceptive policies were normative, and corruption ran amuck, all which dwarf the political tensions we experience between political parties in the 21st Century North American context.
The Roman Empire was more ruthless than I ever imagined.
PBS provided an excellent series called The Roman Empire: In The First Century. Summarizing their findings, the enduring legacy of the Empire is identified: “The Roman Empire in the first century AD mixed sophistication with brutality and could suddenly lurch from civilization, strength and power to terror, tyranny and greed.” Ruling with an iron fist takes on new meaning when reading about the Romans and the extreme measures taken to enforce their way of dictatorship. Human life was of little consequence and value.
Remember when Herod issued a decree that all male children should be slaughtered because of the threat Jesus’ birth posed to the Roman establishment (Matthew 2)? It was commonplace for a ruler to order the execution of innocent men, women and children, depending on the fickle mood of whoever was in charge. This occurred with the beheading of John the Baptist at Herodias’ simple request in Matthew 14. No trial, no jury, no due process – just cold-blooded execution as a favor extended by a vengeful ruler. Of course, the most severe punishment reserved for the most hardened criminals was death by crucifixion, where suffering was pushed to its outer limits.
Jesus’ life and death was anything but commonplace.
Can you imagine sending your son to inhabit this kind of tense and violent situation? God did. Can you imagine living under the constant threat of death? Jesus did. Living in the First Century could be described as a no-win situation, and yet it served as the appointed time for Jesus’ life and ministry. When Jesus came, he showed the world a new way of life – one not rooted in fear, but love – in stark contrast to the systems of authority. He showed the world how to value human life, restoring the ethic of mutual dignity, respect and honor. Ultimately, it was a way of life he died to secure.
As we near Holy Week, let us reconsider how uncommon the life and death of Jesus was, especially in comparison to his First Century surroundings. Against the dark backdrop of a bloody and cruel world, Jesus offered his life so love would rule the day, redemption would be possible, and hope would spring up from the doldrums of despair. He gave his life so we might have life, experiencing it in all its fullness, beauty and abundance. Regardless of how many times I hear about the life and death of Jesus, I stand in awe of this sacrificial act of love. The story truly never gets old, and I am brought to a place where I echo the Apostle Paul in praise, who writes in 2 Corinthians 9:15, “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!”
Kitchen Update
Pleased and excited are just a couple words that come to mind as we reflect on the events of the past two days (March 11th and 12th) in the kitchen renovation project!! However, the most important word that we wish to share with our church family – GRATEFUL!! This past Tuesday and Wednesday the “major appliance” phase of the kitchen project was completed when the new Hobart dishwasher, double stack Vulcan convection ovens, and the GE Monogram duel fuel gas ranges were delivered and set in place. Thanks to the healthy and strong men who delivered nearly a TON of appliances to our basement!!
We have met twice with interested persons in our membership, as well as representatives from Chrysalis and Child Care and we have earnestly attempted to satisfy the needs all who use our kitchen facilities. We have significantly improved the safety issue over our old gas ranges and the new dishwasher will offer some savings in water usage. Naturally, it is exciting to see these shiny new appliances, and we believe they will serve our needs for many years to come. However, NONE of this would have been possible without your support and pledges to this unexpected renovation. We sincerely thank you for your faithful gifts that are making this possible. Now we’re on to the next, and hopefully final phase, kitchen workspace and furnishings. Please let either of us or Sherry Heath know if you or your group are interested in specifically funding some of our remaining tools and equipment.
Gratefully,
Jackie & Martin Pollock
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Financial update to the project notes that $12,370 has been pledged from the congregation for the kitchen project. The goal of $15,000 is reachable and will allow purchases to continue. The project has included replacing the original base flooring of the kitchen with concrete. Prior to the pouring of the floor some new plumbing and electric was installed. After the floor had cured for 28 days the base coat of Sandstone ArmorSeal was painted with paint speckles thrown onto the floor. A clear sealer was painted over the floor for the final finish. The cabinet in the kitchen was placed in Wilson Hall for storage and the wooden counter was reversed, sanded and varnished. The new dishwasher has been repositioned to allow a longer area for preparing the dishes for the dishwasher cycle. The clean dishes area will allow two complete racks of dishes to air dry before being returned to the pantry. The stainless tables that are on the wish list for purchase can be positioned in many ways in the kitchen for many different purposes. The ceiling tiles will be replaced and Steve Davis is in the process of repainting the walls and woodwork to match the floor.
A notebook of desired items, yet to be funded, is available for review. Anyone wishing to make a special purchase for the kitchen may choose from the notebook. Please still consider a gift to the kitchen renovation project.
We would be remiss if we failed to note that all of this redesign and implementation would not have been possible without the engineering skills and connections of Martin & Jackie Pollock. Martin’s daily visits to guide the gas, electric and plumbing changes made the process seamless.
Church members are encouraged to stop by the church and take a look at the new area. It is something to be proud of.
Because We Are Family . . .
OUR SYMPATHY IS EXTENDED TO:
Dan and Adele Penrod and family upon the death of his mother Doris on February 28, 2014.
Scott and Susy Phillips upon the death of his mother Kay Phillips who passed away on March 12.
The Sweetman family on the death of Jennifer’s grandmother on March 8, 2014.
Rita Ash on the death of her son Michael Stang on March 25.
CONGRATULATIONS EXTENDED TO:
Abbey and Josh Slivers on the birth of Blakelee Emerick Silvers, born March 11. Proud grandparents are Rick and Terry Fry.
Chris and Amy Vosler on the birth of Jacob Christopher Vosler, born March 6. Proud grandparents are April & Dave Vosler and great-grandmother, Colleen Fry.
Page 4
Nursing Homes Sterling House Virginia Gross Maxine Zimmerman Spring Meade Martha Fraley Garbry Ridge Barbara Minton
Dorothy Love Ruth Brush John Phillips Kentucky Alvena Thornton Lincoln Park Manor Margie Trimmer
Hospitalized Since Last Month: Robyn Cooper and Melinda Slaughter
3 Joshua & Holly Trombley 7 Mike & Donna DeBrosse 16 Jill & David Weimer 17 Aaron & Jennifer Beaver Ron & Robyn Cooper 21 Steve & Debbie Frazier Bruce & Carol Hogston 22 Scott & Suzy Phillips 23 Elizabeth & Tim DuBois 26 Larry & Shirley Grabo 28 Don & Barbara Hiser
1 Barbara Hudson 2 Reganne Tate 3 Shirley Sanders 7 Amy Sweetman 8 Myrna Cantrell 9 Jerry Fogt Marcy Thomas 10 Spencer Lavey Andy Leininger 11 Donna DeBrosse Isaac Hale Michelle Taylor 12 Carol Hogston 13 Merlin Funderburg 15 Robert Wilson 16 Chuck DeBrosse Roxie Roberts 17 Sharon Whetstone 18 Austin Kline Elijah Stewart 19 Austin Agee 20 Tom Hudson Carson Smith 21 Jane Caslow 22 Jennifer Sweetman Larry Underwood 23 Rachel Apple Reece Tate 24 Debbie Blue 25 Sandra Christy Caroline Elsass-Smith Ron Yount 27 Ron Cooper Ruthanne Ruffner 28 Katie Hale Dorie Perry 30 Chuck Asher
Greene Street Church Family - Bob Jones, Fred Shellenberg, Jim Whetstone, Lois Erbes, Ron Cooper, Mabel Bragg, Ann Elliott, Hubert Bateman, Robyn Cooper, Melinda Slaughter,
Friends and Family of Greene Street- Mike Jess, Nancy Wiford, Jennifer Ketrow Bragg, Janet Hartley (Stilwell), Jim Lyons (Francony), Wyatt Osting, John Rimmer (Ash), Griffin Schobe (Elliott), Rachel Kinninger and Linda Canan (Helman), Shelby Offrink (Penrod-Hartman), Doug Manson (Christy),
Military - Jed Cooper, Ronnie Cooper, Clarke Cripe (Elliott), Kristopher Palsgrove (Ash), Andy Pearson (Hudson/Carter), Alexander Yantis (Williamson), Tyler Fellure (Christy), Brian Pummill, Jacob Kerrigan, Joseph Sherman (Shellenberg)
Flyer from February Chimes
Mexico Mission Trip . . .
On Sunday, May 4th, we will have a
special luncheon after the 10:30 a.m.
service. This Fiesta lunch will benefit
all of the Mission Trip Participants,
and donations are appreciated. We
will serve lots of yummy Mexican
food! Everyone is Welcome!
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo early!
Page 5
March 2, 2014
The Altar Flowers are given by JoJo and Jeff Marrs in celebration of their anniversary.
Bulletin and Video Dedications are given by the members of the Sunday School Class in the Parlor in appreciation of Martha Fraley, Jack Neuenschwander, and Mike Tinkler for their many years of dedication as class teachers.
March 9, 2014
The Altar Flowers are given in memory of Cliff Helman with love, Pat, Scott, Renee, Brant, Noah, Landon, Avery, Missy, Larry, and Jacob.
March 16, 2014
Altar Flowers are in memory of Buck & Bob Gary with love from Betty Gary & family.
March 23, 2014
The Altar Flowers are given in loving memory of Howard and Scott from Hannah Kingrey, Faith Ann, Flo and Ryan Morgan.
March 30, 2014
The Altar Flowers are given in memory of Paul Beck with love from his family.
March Dedications
Thank You
Dear Greene Street Fiends,
I sincerely apologize for sending my
heartfelt thanks to each of you so very
late, for all of the cards, Valentine’s,
memories and love that came my way.
You will never know how happy it made
me.
I treasure the lovely Prayer Shawl also.
I miss my wonderful church and seeing all
of you.
With All My Love,
Margie Trimmer
Home Visitation Team presents
Getting to Know You . . .
Getting to know our shut-ins.
Margie Trimmer
Where were you born? Portsmouth, OH
What is your favorite childhood memory? Spending
Christmas with a large family. Christmas was always
special.
What was your favorite things to do for fun? Likes to
read and has started playing bingo.
What are the most important lessons you’ve learned
in life? That there are always changes and you’ll be
better off to embrace them.
What is your favorite memory about Greene Street?
Loving and caring people.
Margie Trimmers happiest moment of her life was
her Wedding day when she married “the love of my
life” in 1946. Margie has 3 children, 5 grandchildren,
and 5 great-grandchildren. Margie currently lives at
Lincoln Park Manor in Kettering.
Page 6
Easter Lilies
If you would like to order a Lily for the sanctuary or wish to have a dedication carried, please complete this form and return it to the church office by 9:00 a.m. Monday, April 14. The cost of each lily is $8.00. You have three choices:
1. ____In lieu of ordering a flower I wish to make a $8.00 contribution to the decorating fund of the church.
2. I am ordering lily/lilies from the church.
3. I am bringing colorful flowers (tulip, daffodil, etc) to the church by 12 p.m. Friday, April 18. (Please label your flower(s) so that you may take your own flowers home after the 10:30 a.m. Easter Service.)
Many dedications are in honor or memory of a loved one or you may use whatever dedication you would like. Please print the dedications(s) as you would like them to appear.
In memory of _______________
__________________________
In honor of _________________
__________________________
Other _____________________
__________________________
Your name (or who the dedications
are from)
______________________________
______________________
Lilies and other flowers may be removed from the sanctuary after the 10:30 a.m. Easter
Service.
Night at the Greene
We are writing to extend a warm invitation to join us for a lovely and elegant evening of fine dining and entertainment at Greene Street Church on Saturday, April 26, 2014 from 6-8 PM called “Night at the Greene.”
Our meal will include hors d’oeuvres, your choice of chicken Georgia or marinated pork chop, baked potato, green beans and a succulent dessert. We will also feature many local musicians who will serenade the evening by sharing their beautiful gifts and talents.
Tickets are $15 per person, and childcare will be provided along with a child-friendly meal for $5 each (with a $10 maximum; the third and subsequent children are free). All proceeds will benefit the Greene Street Food Pantry, which served nearly 2,500 clients, giving more than 25,000 food items to the hungry families in our community in 2013 alone.
Tickets can be ordered through the Greene Street Church Office by calling (937) 773-5313. Limited quantities are available and will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis. Order your tickets today to ensure your place for this night of elegance and enjoyment, all benefitting the great cause of feeding the hungry!
If you are interested in helping provide appetizers for this event, contact the church office.
Page 7
Meet our new teachers
Krystal Lawson—Preschool Teacher (3yrs—5yrs non-
Kindergarten) ***
I am a 2003 graduate from Piqua High School, and graduated in 2011 from Edison Community College, with an Associates of Arts Degree and Medical Assisting Certificate. I am currently working as a legal
assistant, though most of my background is early childhood oriented. I worked at Greene Street Daycare and Preschool in the infant room directly out of high school, and eventually
worked for 5 years at The Sidney Shelby County YMCA in their Full Day Preschool program.
I have been a life-long member of Greene Street U.M.C. Growing up I attended Sunday School, Wednesday Night Ministries, and eventually was an active member of the Youth Group. I have attended Chrysalis, and have
served on several teams. So needless to say, Greene Street has directly influenced my life, and feels like a second home.
I currently am living in Piqua, with my husband, Jordan. We were married at Greene Street in 2007. We have a puppy named Brutus, that we adopted a little over a year ago. We are avid sports fans, and love spending time
outside with Brutus.
I am super excited to have the opportunity to serve the most vital part of the church. They are the future
members and leaders of our church.
Dana Robertson—Infant / Toddler Care My name is Dana Robertson and I am a teacher in the toddler room of the daycare here at Greene Street. Prior to joining the awesome staff here I have worked with children of all ages, as well as those with special
needs. I am married to my high school sweetheart and the mother of 3 wonderful
children.
I have felt a need to serve from a very young age in Youth for Christ and being involved
with Sunday School at my previous church.
My family and I have just recently moved back to Miami County from the Dayton area. I love working with the children and staff here at Greene Street Daycare and can’t wait for my family and I to
become a part of this very special church family.
***We are still seeking a person to work 1.5 hours each Sunday from 10:15-11:45 in our preschool to allow Krystal to worship.
New Children’s Format
Daycare News
We are currently registering for Preschool for the 2014-15 school year. We are happy to announce
a new 5 day program for children who are 4 turning 5 during the school year. The
following is a list of all the classes being offer:
T/Th Bible for 3 year old 8:45 am – 11:15 am $90.00 per month
M/W 4 & 5 year old 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm $90.00 per month
M/W/F Bible 4 & 5 year old 8:45 am – 11:15am $110.00 per month M/W/F am 4 & 5 year old 9:00am
– 11:30 am $110..00 per month M/W/F pm 4 & 5 year old 12:30 pm
– 3:00 pm $110.00 per month M-F pm 4 & 5 year old 12:30 – 3:00 pm $150.00 per month
Pre K 5 year old 12:15 pm – 2:45 pm $150.00 per month
All children must meet the age requirement by September 30th to enroll. Please share
the information with anyone looking for a Preschool program. Registration will run until
the classes are full.
United Methodist Men
UMM will be meeting Saturday, April 12 at 8:00 a.m. downstairs in the Wall/Wesleyan room. Breakfast and coffee provided. ALL MEN are invited to attend. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Carter 773-3380.
Children’s Ministry Team
The Children’s Ministry Team will sponsor this years Easter Egg Hunt on Wednesday, April 9. They are looking for donations of individually wrapped candy and plastic eggs. Please bring in your donations by Sunday, April 6th.
From the Pantry
The Food Pantry is in dire need of cereal. Thus, we are asking for donations of cereal in the month of April. Your donations will be greatly appreciated.
Hospitality Team
Hospitality invites you to stop by the kitchenette and see the new sink and counter
top. We are truly blessed with such a supportive church family.
Ladies Afternoon Circle
The Administrative Board has received a resignation from Mary Grimes who has served as the coordinator/leader for the United Methodist Women for nearly 20 years. The Discipline of the United Methodist Church requires each church to have a United Methodist Women’s group as part of the structure. The Administrative Board accepts Mary’s resignation with regret and with appreciation for her many years of service. The Board will be reviewing the church structure and will discuss how a group might be organized. Thank you, Mary, for your leadership and devotion!
Small Groups, Ministry Teams, and Committee News
Page 8
Vacation Bible School
July 14-18
6:30—8:30 p.m.
Mark your calendars now! Planning has already started. If you are still interested in helping, or would like to order VBS t-shirts
see Jenny Sweetman or call the church office. This year we will be asking for donations of
fun and WEIRD craft supplies. Start collecting and bring them to the church
office.
Next Planning Meeting will be Thursday, April 24 at 7 p.m. We will discuss set-up, tear
down, and more.
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 2
6:30 p Wednesday
Night Ministries
3 4 5
6
4 p Confirmation
7 8 9
6:30 p Easter Egg
Hunt
10 11 12
8 a UMM Breakfast
13
4 p Confirmation
14 15 16
NO Wednesday
Night Ministries
17
7 p Maundy
Thursday
18
12 p Good Friday Service at True Vine Church
19
20
21 22 23 24
7 p
VBS Planning Meeting
25 26
6-8 p
Night at the Greene
27
4 p Confirmation
28
Bob Evans Day
29
Alpha Center
30
9 a Newsletter
Folding
Unless otherwise stated . . .
Sunday Schedules 9 a.m. Liturgical Worship 10:30 a.m. Unveiled Worship 4:00 p.m. Confirmation 6 p.m. Ch. 5 Rebroadcast
Greene Street
United Methodist Church 415 W. Greene Street
Piqua, Ohio 45356-2198
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Piqua, Ohio Permit No. 268
ADDRESS SERVICE
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