February 2020 INSIDE THIS ISSUE Schedule 1 Luther Chapel 2 Giving Report 3 Why Not? Zion Parking Book Group Family Promise Prayer List 4 Petitions Caroline Anderson Birthdays 5 Social Hall 6 TEEM 7-8 Council 9-10 Adm/Finance 11 Property 12 Parish Ed 13-14 Spring 15 Calendar 16 Schedule 17 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH The following is the schedule for the Lent-to-Easter and Beyond study for the Thursday night services February 27 Introduction March 5 Esther 1-2:20 The Reign of Xerxes, Esther becomes queen March 12 Spring Break (No Meeting) March 19 Esther 2:21-5:14 Plotting March 26 Esther 6-7 Xerxes honors Mordecai and the death of Haman April 2 Esther 8-10 The Jewish people are saved; the Jewish people celebrate their victory April 9 Maundy Thursday April 16 Greek additions and further comments
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February 2020
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Schedule 1
Luther Chapel 2
Giving Report 3
Why Not?
Zion Parking
Book Group
Family Promise
Prayer List 4
Petitions
Caroline Anderson
Birthdays 5
Social Hall 6
TEEM 7-8
Council 9-10
Adm/Finance 11
Property 12
Parish Ed 13-14
Spring 15
Calendar 16
Schedule 17
ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH
The following is the schedule for the Lent-to-Easter and Beyond study for
the Thursday night services
February 27 Introduction
March 5 Esther 1-2:20 The Reign of Xerxes, Esther becomes
queen
March 12 Spring Break (No Meeting)
March 19 Esther 2:21-5:14 Plotting
March 26 Esther 6-7 Xerxes honors Mordecai and the death of
Haman
April 2 Esther 8-10 The Jewish people are saved; the Jewish
people celebrate their victory
April 9 Maundy Thursday
April 16 Greek additions and further comments
Page 2
News from Luther Chapel - Part of the 3-2-1
Ministry—February
Please remember these folks on the Luther Chapel Prayer List: Sarah, Mary Ann, Gary, Ben,
Please note that as of December 31, 2019, we will no longer be renting the five parking spaces
across Church Street in the Frick parking lot. If you park there, your car will be towed.
————————————————————————————————————————–—-
FAMILY PROMISE
Did you know that it’s ok to sleep in church? Come to the Family Promise Volunteer Revital-
ization Event on Sunday, February 9, 2020; 2:00 PM-4:00 PM to find out how you too can sleep
in church. The event is for new volunteers as well as volunteers that may need a refresher
course about Family Promise and the important role that the churches play in the success that
the families have. This event will be held at Blairsville First UMC, 50 South Walnut Street,
Blairsville. Call the Day Center for more information. 724-464-5220
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PRAY for those who suffer oppression, death, and tragedy. Please pray for those who travel. Please pray for those who serve in the armed forces and for their families. Pray for peace for all peoples.
Remember all those requesting prayer: Kaleb Boychuck, Deserae Fisher, Petras Family, George Schul-
ze, Becky Lear, Denny Swanson, Jr, Jeannie Park, Martha Chapman, Ray Doughtery, Barb Tallmadge,
Paolo Schianchi, Bonnie Houck, Brieann Okunade, Betty Stineman, Ron Anderson, Billie Kurtz-King,
Deb Johnston, Bill Johnston, Eric McEldowney, Winifred Coughenour, Liesl Andrie, Bob Sell, Bea Ruth,
Peter Broad, Bob Reifsteck, Helen Bush, Fred Schrock, Bob Butchkoski, Ian Bingaman, Edward Chap-
Several members of the congregation have inquired about the submission of special prayer petitions to be read during the “Prayers of the Congregation” portion of the service. The Worship and Music commit-tee discussed this and determined that it is quite appropriate for members attending the service to pre-sent these prayer petitions during the “Prayers of the Congregation”. The Assisting Ministers will be in-structed to ask for additional prayer concerns and pause a little longer to give members an opportunity to offer these petitions.
Caroline Anderson has donated several items used by Pastor Earl Anderson during his ministry. Several of Pastor Anderson’s stoles (White, Green and Purple) and a home communion set with accessories are now available for use in Zion’s ministry.
Pastor Anderson was ordained in 1953 and purchased the stoles in 1966.
The home communion set is over 100 years old and was given to Pastor Anderson in 1954 while he served at Bethany Lutheran Woodstock Ontario by Dr. Maurer’s widow. The communion set was origi-nally presented to Pastor Maurer in 1913 on the 25
th Anniversary of his ordination.
We are so pleased to accept these items in memory of Pastor Anderson and will cherish them all as part of Zion’s ongoing ministry.
Zion’s Worship and Music Committee
Page 5
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS
Peggy Schrock Jim Belford
Sheri Bowersox
Maggie Dugan Michael Calhoun
Tyler Kmetz Dorothy Moreland
Caitlin Mumau Grant Hess
Richard Smith Joanne Stiles
Caroline Anderson William Mechling
Benjamin Gibbons Betty Stancombe
Logan Lundberg
David Harber
Olga Markle Cheyenne Keith
Rachel Bowersox Jameson Stile
Adam Hess Amanda Creps
Bernard Lockard
Luke Shively
Page 6
" IT'S FINISHED! The long-awaited renovation of our social hall is now completed and it's ready for all to enjoy. A ribbon-cutting and blessing by Pastor Tedd took place on Friday, December 20, prior to the Love Basket distribution. If you haven't seen it yet, take the time to go down-stairs and take a look. We think you'll be pleased. This renovation, along with the new elevator, were made possible by your generous ZARP (Zion Accessibility and Renovation Project) dona-tions. Now, let's plan to enjoy some fellowship!"
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Preparation for Candidacy and TEEM for those without a Bachelor’s Degree
Writing Workshop February 15 and 22
Basic Practices of Christian Spirituality March 21 and 28
Telling the Good News April 18 and 25
A History of Christian Theology May 16 and 23
Interpretation to Proclamation June 20 and 27
Leadership September 19 and 26
Sessions will be held at a place to be determined. Sessions will be conducted
from 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM on each date.
Participants will be examined for reading, comprehension, and writing skills.
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Course Instructor: The Rev. Dr. Ralph E. Jones
Course Title: Writing for Students of Theology
Course Description: Students will be introduced to the basics of research, writing, and documentation necessary for theologians.
IV. Outline of four three-hour class sessions with topics covered in each ses- sion:
1. Introduction and Kinds of Theological Education Research [February 15 AM] (pp. 1-65)
2. Carrying Out the Research—Part I [February 15 PM] (pp. 99-152)
3. Carrying Out the Research—Part II [February 22 AM] (pp. 153-195)
4. Presenting the Research [February 22 PM] (pp.219-265)
V. Required Reading:
Your Guide to Writing Quality Research Papers for Students of Religion and Theology (third edition) by Nancy J. Vyhmeister.
Recommended: A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations, Ninth Edition: Chicago Style for Students and Researchers by Kate Turabian.
VI. Evaluation:
1. Develop a bibliography for a selected topic
2. Develop a detailed outline
3. Write a paper
Page 9
MINUTES OF THE CONGREGATIONAL COUNCIL
December 9, 2019
Attendees: Bob Gaylor, Shirley Horner, Kim Balcerak, Brian Mehus, Kathy Gaylor, Barb Lock-
ard, Gail Sechrist, David Keith, Diana Metzger, Pastor Tedd Cogar , Pastor Sarah Aasheim, Do-
ry Campbell
Absent: No one
Bob Gaylor called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
Opening Prayer & Devotions were shared by Kathy Gaylor. Future devotions assignments:
January- Kim, February- Kim, March- Shirley.
Minutes from the November Council meeting were discussed and accepted as received.
Welcome of new council members (Brian, Gail and Dory). All council received council member
information sheets. Contact info on all members was updated.
New officers were chosen: Vice Chair – Bob Gaylor; Secretary – Dory Campbell; Treasurer –
Barb Lockard; Financial Secretary – Anna Grafton.
Communication was shared regarding Luther Haus. No action needed
Barb Lockard reviewed the financial reports and brought new members up to speed. The re-
ports came as a motion from Administration and Finance and seconded by K. Balcerak. They
were reviewed and accepted by Council. Counters calendar was also sent around for dates
through March.
Committee Reports:
1. Administration and Finance- Council entertained motion from the Admin Fin committee (and seconded by K. Balcerak) to retain some of the Frick parking spaces at a cost of $720/space/year. The motion was defeated 8 to 1.
2. Evangelism/Stewardship – Shirley explained that the phone calls to congregants were not
effective and shared that she would stop calling. Kim told us about the Nativity sharing event coming up as well as the trip to see Queen Esther on May 19
2020. It was sug-
gested that some Thrivent product holders could use their $250 cards to help offset costs. Also suggested – a $20 deposit be asked of each person signing up for the trip to reserve their space.
3.Parish Education – Carol sing Dec 15, 10:45 AM 4. Property – David Keith updated Council on ZARP work and Luther Haus green space pro-ject. The thermostat that failed and caused the sanctuary to be uncomfortably cool on De-cember 8, has already been fixed. Some ideas were popcorned about a salvage auction or items made by upcycling remnants of the parsonage. Dory raised Parish Education con-cerns regarding fire safety, active shooter escape routes and gates at the top of the stairs and entrance of the elevator to protect children in the Sunday School area.
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MINUTES OF THE CONGREGATIONAL COUNCIL—cont
5. Recreation and Fellowship – committee will be cleaning and reorganizing in preparation
for the Lenten Soup dates that are fast approaching. 6. Social Ministry reminded us of the dates and times for Love baskets preparations and dis-
tribution. Approximately 85-90 people will be served. 7. Worship and Music – Pastor Tedd told us that no information is yet available about the
IUP Chamber singers event. Also a special W&M meeting was held to begin preparation on a service: “Breaking the Barriers” and that it will be held on June 19
th. Dates for the
Christmas Eve and day services were also shared. 8. Next meeting is January 13, 2020 at 6:30 pm in the Chapman Room
Closing Prayers, doxology and blessing concluded the meeting.
Motion to adjourn was made at 8:15 PM by S. Horner and seconded by K. Balcerak
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ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE COMMITTEE MINUTES
January 8, 2020—4:30 PM
Attending: Becky Slade, Don Seagren, Dawn Seagren, Kim Balcerak, Barb Lockard, Bev Swatsworth
and Dory Campbell. Bob Gaylor attended via phone.
Bob began the meeting at 4:26 PM
Barb Lockard reported on the December financials. The year at Zion ended with $12,265.60 being spent
from reserves, but that was much better than the projected $19,000.00 shortfall. This was a result of
many committees under spending and very generous giving in December.
Covers for the social hall chair feet have been ordered. That expenditure is to be put in the building
maintenance line.
During the Social Hall renovation, the pass through from the kitchen to the hall was not completely elimi-
nated. Work still remains on the kitchen side of the pass through. The contractor will need to be contact-
ed to complete the work.
The window frames around the building need painted. Don Seagren will take the matter to the Property
Committee.
Office copier problems were discussed. The smaller copier is working adequately for what it can do. The
larger copier is six years old and needs to be replaced ASAP. Purchasing a new unit over leasing will
save a great deal of money over the life of the machine. A motion was made by Don Seagren and se-
conded by Kim Balcerak to keep the smaller copier in the finance office “until its wheels fall off”. Rather
than lease the next machine, the motion included a provision to purchase locally a copier very similar to
the current one, except with a folder unit included. Additionally the motion included purchasing a mainte-
nance plan for both copiers from the same local company, Henry Hall. The vote was unanimous to make
the purchase.
To save costs, it was decided to use only 8 ½ X 11 inch paper instead of 11 X 17 inch paper to produce
the newsletter. The look will be similar but it will be easier for the office volunteers to assemble and much
more affordable.
Vases of silk flowers to be used for the Sundays where no one is donating flowers are ready for pickup.
Kim Balcerak will pick them up tomorrow from the Flower Boutique and let all parties know where they
are located.
A discussion regarding the year-end ministry review of the 3-2-1 Ministry promised by Bishop Ralph
Jones followed. It was moved by Don Seagren and seconded by Kim Balcerak to send to Zion Council a
recommendation to conduct a year-end ministry review of the 3-2-1 Ministry as it relates to Zion and to
share the results with our other two partners. The vote was unanimous and the recommendation will go
to the Council on January 13, 2020.
A motion to adjourn was made by Barb Lockard and seconded by Kim Balcerak. It passed at 5:40 PM.
Respectfully,
Dory Campbell
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PROPERTY COMMITTEE MINUTES
January 21, 2020
Members Present: Jerry Ruffner, Kevin Huston, Don Seagren, Dave Keith, Dave Nycum
Date of Meeting: Tuesday, January 21, 2020
Committee issues discussed:
1.December 8, 2019: A new thermostat was installed in the Nave 2.December 12, 2019: Utilities (Gas and Electric) service for the parsonage was terminated 3.December 17, 2019: Furnace Issue – Boiler #2: A new UVA Box was installed on Boiler #2. This
controls the motor, tac and gas valve for the boiler. Cost $ 1,158.00. This was expensed in the committee’s 2019 building repair budget.
4.December 18, 2019: Smoke detectors (10) for the newly renovated social hall were installed. Dur-ing the renovation, issues with the old smoke detectors created false alarms to be set off. This resulted in response from the Indiana Fire Department and a late night service call from the fire alarm contractor. It was determined that our current smoke detectors were beyond their service life and would need to be replaced. This prompted an inspection of the remaining (43) smoke detectors in the church. All are over 10 years old and need to be replaced. A committee recom-mendation for this issue is noted below.
5.January 2, 2020: New fire extinguishers were installed by Advanced Fire 6.January 8, 2020: semi-annual elevator maintenance was performed 7.January 20, 2020: Chestnut Ridge Communication reviewed the issue with the phone extension
outside the social hall. They determined that the age of the unit prevented it from being repaired (parts are no longer available). We received a bid for replacing our current phone system with a new system ($3,769.53) which would replace all existing (6) units with new technology. Discus-sion during the meeting led the committee to decide on an alternate solution where a new base unit with two mobile units would be purchased to allow for in house communication by the staff.
8.Capital Improvement projects for 2020 were discussed. The committee currently has three projects on its agenda:
a.Replacement of the remaining 43 smoke detectors in the church building. (see recommen-dation below)
b.Replace remaining florescent lighting in the church building with new LED lighting (both the Nave and the social hall have been updated). A new bid for the cost of this project will be secured.
c.Repair and paint all the outside windows of the church building. Bids will be secured for this project.
The Committee’s next meeting will be Tuesday, February 18, 2020 at 7:00 PM
Formal recommendations to council:
The committee is recommending that the remaining (43) smoke detectors within the church
building be replaced with updated units. Estimated cost will be $ 4,171.00. This cost can be ex-
pensed through the Capital Improvement Fund due to the long term nature of the upgrade. The
committee requests that council approve this expenditure.
Jenn Rising convened the committee and led the group in prayer.
The following agenda items were discussed:
1. Christmas Caroling was rescheduled from December 15 to December 28 at 2:30 pm due to forecasted icing event. No one attended. While disappointing, it is understandable. Committee decided to tighten our focus to just parish education items and allow Recrea-tion and Fellowship to cover fellowship events until Parish Education can recruit more members.
2. Jenn Rising is going to put together a phone tree of teachers and parents to be used to share pertinent information rapidly. It will be distributed in the next week or two.
3. Catechism teacher, Dory Campbell, reported that Kalise Dugan received all the supplies she requested of the congregation for her local catechism project. A generous donation was even made that will cover the cost of the fabric she needs to make reusable cloth bags for all these items. Distribution will begin on February 9
th. Thank yous go to the
congregation for their wonderful and generous support. 4. A revised event calendar prepared by Maggie Dugan was reviewed and adopted. The
only “events” listed are singing in church on February 02 – IF approved by Zion’s music director, making of Valentine cards for the shut-ins to accompany the love bags being made by Kalise Dugan, a special Easter event in Sunday School on Palm Sunday (no Sunday School on Easter), Parent’s Day celebration during Sunday School on May 12 and a Recognition Sunday event for the last day of Sunday School (May 17).
5. An adult Bible study of Esther is being discussed. The committee is looking for a “name draw” to lead the event (s). A Saturday in February, March or April is being considered.
6. The three safety concerns that have been discussed since October (fire escape plan, ac-tive shooter plan and gates on the SCS stairs and elevator entrance on the 3
rd floor) were
discussed again. A set of three motions were written and approved by the Parish Educa-tion Committee to be sent to Council for discussion and direction at the January 13
th
meeting. 7. Dates for VBS are chosen. The last week of July (July 27-31) from 5:30 to 7:30 PM have
been cleared through both pastors, Back to School Bash personnel, Recreation and Fel-lowship folks and chosen by the Parish Education Committee. Hold the date information will be put in the newsletters and bulletins. The theme will relate to Planting Seeds and Growth. Monday through Thursday will be classes. Friday evening will be a covered dish and performance event to which the entire congregation is invited. Mark your calendars, pray for good weather and volunteer to help in some way.
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PARISH ED COMMITTEE MINUTES
January 2, 2020
8. A new outline for the Sunday School hour was discussed, refined and approved to be used starting January 06. It includes continuing the formal opening, including the junior high students telling the story of the day with the felt board. This is a new responsibility for them. Beth Wheeler has agreed to oversee their preparation and presentations. A formal closing will be implemented as well. A snack will be sent home with each student at dismissal. We are working to use only NON-SUGARY snacks as much as possible. Both the opening and closing will include elements from the regular church services and from catechism to familiar-ize students with these elements and reinforce their understanding and use of these basic essentials of Lutheran life. 9. Still under discussion. Possible envelopes for Sunday School collection. Gail Sechrist
has agreed to count and record contributions being brought forward by the students in church and to record the attendance numbers and send both to Bev for publication in the newsletter.
Jenn Rising adjourned the meeting at approximately 8:15 PM. The next meeting will be Febru-
ary 6th at 6 PM in keeping with our goal to meet on the first Thursday of each month (as a rule).