Emanuel United Methodist Church - Loganville, PA: Site News

IS IT CALLED "MEMORIAL DAY" OR "DECORATION DAY"?

2012-05-14T00:00:00-05:00

John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends (NIV 1984)

ALWAYS REMEMBER - FREEDOM IS NOT FREE

Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (May 28th in 2012). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. soldiers who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union and Confederate soldiers following the American Civil War, it was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

Begun as a ritual of remembrance and reconciliation after the Civil War, by the early 20th century, Memorial Day was an occasion for more general expressions of memory, as ordinary people visited the graves of their deceased relatives, whether they had served in the military or not.

Let us pray today for those soldiers, both men and women who gave their lives for our freedom.

JOHN 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

(New International Version ©1984)

DID SOME KIND OF TONGUES REALLY COME OUT OF THE SKY AND SIT ON THE APOSTLE'S HEADS ON PENTECOST?

2012-05-08T00:00:00-05:00

Better click here quickly and find out what happened on that day.

PENTECOST - May 27th 2012

Pentecost : "the Fiftieth [day]" is one of the prominent feasts in the Christian liturgical year commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Christ after the Resurrection.Pentecost is celebrated seven weeks (50 days) after Easter Sunday, hence its name. Pentecost falls on the tenth day after Ascension Thursday.

Pentecost is historically and symbolically related to the Jewish harvest festival of Shavuot, which commemorates God giving the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai fifty days after the Exodus. Among Christians, Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus as described in the New Testament Acts of the Apostles 2:1-31. For this reason, Pentecost is sometimes described as the "Birthday of the Church".

The Pentecostal movement of Christianity derives its name from this biblical event.

Biblical narrative

A depiction of the Descent of the Holy Spirit in the Rosary Garden of San Carlos Seminary, Guadalupe Viejo, Makati City, Philippines.

The biblical narrative of Pentecost is given in the second chapter of the Book of Acts. As recounted in Acts 2:1-6: And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. While those on whom the Spirit had descended were speaking in tongues, the disciple Peter stood up with the eleven and proclaimed to the crowd that this event was the fulfillment of the prophecy ("I will pour out my spirit") in Joel 2:28-29. Acts 2:41 reports: "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls."

CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE HOLY TRINITY AND TRINITY SUNDAY TO A SEEKER?

2012-05-14T00:00:00-05:00

Click here and we'll teach you (sort of)

Question: "What is Trinity Sunday" on June 3rd

Answer: Trinity Sunday is the first Sunday after Pentecost to honor the Holy Trinity—the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Although the word “trinity” does not appear in Scripture, it is taught in Matthew 28:18-20 and 2 Corinthians 13:14 (and many other biblical passages). The concept of the trinity can never be completely understood or rationalized, but it is clearly taught in Scripture. Understanding of all scriptural doctrine is by faith which comes through the work of the Holy Spirit; therefore, it is appropriate that this mystery is celebrated the first Sunday after the Pentecost, when the outpouring of the Holy Spirit first occurred.

On Trinity Sunday, the Christian Church ponders with joy and thanksgiving what the Father, Son and Holy Spirit have done to accomplish the salvation of sinful humanity. It is brought to remembrance how Christians should respond to the love God has shown us, praising Him and giving Him glory. We remember the Father as our Creator, the Son as our Savior and the Holy Spirit as our Comforter. Scriptural readings for the Trinity Sunday ceremony may include Psalm 8, beginning and ending with, “O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.” Second Corinthians 13:11-13 appeals to believers to aim for perfection and live in peace, ending with the prayer that the grace of Christ Jesus, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all, including again the commission Jesus left for believers in Matthew 28:16-20.

Today, Trinity Sunday is to explain, to the best of man’s ability, the clues written in Scripture to guide us to a fuller understanding of our triune God. The Father is God from the beginning (John 1:1); Jesus revealed Himself as equal to the Father in John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.” Together, they sent the Holy Spirit (John 14:26). “For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one” (1 John 5:7-11).

Holy Trinity, fresco by Luca Rossetti da Orta, 1738-9 (St. Gaudenzio Church at Ivrea, Torino).

FATHER'S DAY - 40 YEARS LATE???

2012-05-21T00:00:00-05:00

It took Lyndon Johnson & Richard Nixon to finally recognize Dads

History of Father's Day

Father's Day is a celebration of fathers inaugurated in the early twentieth century to complement Mother's Day in celebrating fatherhood and male parenting. Father's Day is celebrated on a variety of dates worldwide and typically involves gift-giving, special dinners to fathers, and family-oriented activities.

The first observance of Father's Day actually took place in Fairmont, West Virginia on July 5, 1908. It was organized by Mrs. Grace Golden Clayton, who wanted to celebrate the lives of the 210 fathers who had been lost in the Monongah Mining disaster several months earlier in Monongah, West Virginia, on December 6, 1907. It's possible that Clayton was influenced by the first celebration of Mother's Day that same year, just a few miles away. Clayton chose the Sunday nearest to the birthday of her recently deceased father.

Unfortunately, the day was overshadowed by other events in the city, West Virginia did not officially register the holiday, and it was not celebrated again. All the credit for Father's Day went to Sonora Dodd from Spokane, who invented independently her own celebration of Father's Day just two years later, also influenced by Jarvis' Mother's Day.

Clayton's celebration was forgotten until 1972, when one of the attendants to the celebration saw Nixon's proclamation of Father's Day, and worked to recover its legacy. The celebration is now held every year in the Central United Methodist Church – the Williams Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church, South, was torn down in 1922. Fairmont is now promoted as the "Home of the First Father's Day Service".

A bill to accord national recognition of the holiday was introduced in Congress in 1913. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson went to Spokane to speak in a Father's Day celebration and wanted to make it official, but Congress resisted, fearing that it would become commercialized. US President Calvin Coolidge recommended in 1924 that the day be observed by the nation, but stopped short of issuing a national proclamation. Two earlier attempts to formally recognize the holiday had been defeated by Congress.In 1957, Maine Senator Margaret Chase Smith wrote a proposal accusing Congress of ignoring fathers for 40 years while honoring mothers, thus "singling out just one of our two parents"^.In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers, designating the third Sunday in June as Father's Day.Six years later, the day was made a permanent national holiday when President Richard Nixon signed it into law in 1972.

OUR PRAYERS ARE NEEDED

2012-03-19T00:00:00-05:00

Click for a listing of those needing our prayers

If you would like to add someone to our prayer list, please do so at the bottom of the page. You do not need to be a member of Emanuel UM Church to add someone to our prayer list.

PRAY FOR - PRAYER NEED - REQUESTED BY

Tom Hauser - Healing - Mike Davis

LInda Koons - Safety - Bill Goodling

Randy Smeltzer - Healing - Marilou Klipa

Dan's Sister-in-law - Healing - Dan Withers

Nan Hershner - Healing/Surgery - The Congregation

Aunt Donna - Healing - Adrian Blaydon

Gloria Jean Dillon - Comfort - Louise Martin

Students preparing for finals - strength & courage - The Congregation

Janet Conley - Healing - The Elickers

Wendy Withers - Healing - Dan Withers

Helen Kraft - Healing/Comfort - Lynn Kraft

April Birdsong - Healing - The Congregation

Louise Martin - Grateful for Healing - The Congregation

Tom Townsend - Healing - The Congregation

Sherry Whitsel - Healing - Mary Kraft

Cory Delp - Healing - Beulah Ness

Beulah Ness - Praise for successful outcome - The congregation

Marlene Gillis - Comfort - Marilou Klipa

Joe and Cindy Shamer - Healing & Strength - The Congregation

Max - Peace & Guidance - Chris Bixby

Mickie - Healing - Dan Withers

Katelyn Elicker - Healing & Healthy Baby - John Elicker

Colin and Alec Elicker - Strength & Healing - John Elicker

Pat Messerly - Healing - Marilou Klipa

Mike McMullen - Comfort & Peace - Dan Withers

Pastor Leckrone - Healing - The congregation

Ed & Rose Wittig - Joy/Healing - Marilou Klipa

Ness Ness and last but certainly not least:

All the men and women protecting our country, in both active duty and support roles, both at home and abroad (and their families) - Strength, Safety and Guidance - The Congregation

During the week of May 13th through May 19th the 950+ United Methodist congregations of the Susquehanna Conference will be praying for these ten sister churches. You may wish to include these congregations in your prayers:

Zion UMC, Waterfall
Christ UMC, Northumberland
Herrickville UMC, Herrickville
York Springs UMC, York Springs
Fairdale UMC, Fairdale
Hendrickson UMC, Danville
McKendree UMC, Shickshinny
Lohrs Memorial UMC, Hanover
Wells Valley UMC, Wells Tannery
Calvary UMC, Fayetteville

EMANUEL FAMILY MEMBERS WE SHOULD REMEMBER

2012-02-20T00:00:00-05:00

Please keep these Church family members in your prayers and consider sending a greeting card

Lois Gorseline

Irwin (Bud) Hershner

Tom Levis - Tom has moved. Check with Linda or John Elicker for his new address.

If you wish to send a card, please email Pastor Leckrone or John Elicker for addresses.

SOUTHERN YORK COUNTY PANTRY

2012-01-30T00:00:00-05:00

Do you or someone you know need help with food, clothing or heating cost assistance? Click here to learn who to contact

For the month of May, we will be collecting soaps for the Pantry (e.g. hand soap, bath soap, dish washing soap, dishwasher detergent etc.)

The Southern York County Food Pantry is a co-op effort of 35 churches. For 30 years it has provided needs for area families. In 2011, food was delivered to over 950 families.

The Pantry is part of the Energy (fuel) Fund. A direct payment is made to the utility company. In 2011, many families were helped.

Congregations support the ministry in any of the following ways:

* donations of non-perishable food items and brown paper grocery bags

* donations of cash for bulk food or Energy Fund

* contacting and arranging for delivery

If you would like to make a monetary donation to this ministry, you can do so even if you are not a member of Emanuel Church. Please mail your check to the Emanuel Church address on the HOME page of this website marked, "Benefit of Southern York County Food Pantry"

OR

See "MAKE A DONATION" at the bottom of the HOME page. Email the webmaster of your intentions after making your donation. john.elicker@emanuelumc.org

If you would like to make a donation of non-perishable foods, please bring them with you to church any Sunday morning at 10:30 AM or email John Elicker to make arrangements for another day & time.

Are you or someone you know in need of food, clothing or heating cost assistance? Please call The Southern York County Pantry at (717) 235-6370 to get the help you need. You must leave your contact information and they will call you back.

To learn more about the pantry, visit their website at http://www.sycpantry.com

NEW WEBSITE FEATURES AND YOUTUBE CHANNEL

2012-04-07T00:00:00-05:00

Clilck to learn how to see and hear Emanuel Church Sermons, Anthems, Cantatas and more.

You can now watch and listen to Paster Leckrone's sermons, our choir's anthems and cantatas and selected other videos on this website. Across the top of every page is a menu. Click on the word MEDIA to access these new items.

This year's Easter Cantata is now on the website if you would like to share it. Click on MEDIA as explained above.

Don’t forget we now have a Channel on YouTube “Emanuel UMC Loganville PA Channel”. You can get to it by going to the LINKS section of this website's HOME page (it is the last link). Once there you will find older cantatas, anthems, sermons and more.

Email the webmaster if there are other things you would like to see on this website or if you are having difficulty accessing any part of the website.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU COME TO EMANUEL CHURCH & WHICH SUNDAYS WE ARE CLOSED

2012-02-20T00:00:00-05:00

Click here to learn how to be comfortable when you come to our church & when we cancel services

WHAT TIME ARE THE SERVICES: We offer Sunday School at 9:30 AM and our regular worship service starts at 10:30 AM.

WHAT TO WEAR: That's simple - just be comfortable. You will see jeans & tee shirts as well as a few sports coats. In the summer you will see shorts and sandals.

WHAT TYPE OF SERVICE: Our regular service is more of a traditional church service with hymns, a choir anthem and a sermon. Before the sermon starts we let the youngest kids go to our Social Hall for their own supervised program. This of course, is optional for your youngsters.

COMMUNION: We generally hold a communion service once a month. The United Methodist Church believes any Christian is welcome at Christ's table. We walk to the front of the sanctuary and receive a piece of bread. We then dip the bread into a chalice of grape juice. For those who can not walk to the front of the church, the minister will come to their seat to give them the sacrament

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? We have assisted listening devices for those with hearing difficulty. The receiver is about the size of a pack of cigarettes and you can chose from a headset or an ear bud that plugs into the receiver. Just ask the greeter at the back of the church.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A CHURCH TO ATTEND REGULARLY? If you are considering joining our little church, simply take a visitor's card from the table at the rear of the sanctuary and write a note with your name, address and phone number. Drop the card in the offering plate or hand it to the Minister. The minister will answer your questions about joining Emanuel Church.

QUESTIONS: If you have any questions before, during or after you attend one of our services, please speak with or email the minister or the webmaster. tleckrone1@aol.com john.elicker@emanuelumc.org

FEEL THE LOVE: We welcome you to Feel The Love in this little church. Open your heart, accept the many handshakes you will be offered and let the warmth of a small country church and the love of God envelope you. It's a wonderful feeling.

Sorry

We're Closed

Pennsylvania's winters occasionally force us to cancel our Sunday morning worship service. With the parking lot on a steep hill, we sometimes feel it is better to cancel than to put our members at risk.

When the decision is made to cancel a Sunday morning service, ALL members are contacted by phone. It is therefore VERY IMPORTANT that we have a current phone number where we can reach you.

Please check with Linda & Lew Elicker to make sure we have a current phone number where we can reach you or leave a message for you on a Saturday evening.

We will also be placing the cancelation notice on this website, by our church name at the top of the HOME page.

PLANNED GIVING IS A PART OF A CARING CHRISTIAN'S FAITHFUL STEWARTSHIP

2012-01-30T00:00:00-05:00

In stewardship the promises of God and the believer come together.

Stewardship is our response to the “exceedingly great and precious promises” spoken of in 2 Peter 1:4. Through planned giving we extend our stewardship beyond the grave.

Stewardship beyond the grave might seem like merely a catchy fundraising phrase, but it is firmly grounded in Holy Scripture. Consider the words of St. John the Evangelist who wrote: Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” Revelations 14:13, NIV

Here’s a “short list” of planned gifts that can express your generosity and may offer significant tax benefits.

GIFTS OF CASH – can be made by writing a check or giving cash equivalents, such as money market funds and certificates of deposit

GIFTS OF SECURITIES – can be made to the church by sending the unendorsed stock certificate in one envelope and a signed stock power form in another envelope. If you do not have a stock certificate or if you are donating mutual funds, contact your financial advisor.

GIFTS BY BEQUEST – can be made from any type of property owned at your death. You can bequeath a dollar amount, percentage or residual assets to the church. Dollar amounts are the least desirable gift because inflation can seriously erode a generous gift over a period of years.

GIFTS FROM RETIREMENT FUNDS & IRA’S – can be made if you are beyond the age at which a penalty is imposed for withdrawals. You can notify your plan administrator or financial advisor that you would like to withdraw sufficient amounts to cover the charitable gifts you plan to make this year.

GIFTS OF INSURANCE – can be made by transferring the ownership of an existing policy, assigning the church as a charitable beneficiary or purchasing a new policy with the church as the owner.

TRUSTS – can be used as part of your estate planning – Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRT) will provide the donor a life income with the remainder going to the church. Charitable Lead Trusts (CLT) will provide income to the church over a scheduled period of time without the asset leaving the estate.

For assistance with making a planned gift please contact Pastor Leckrone

TAKE DOWN THE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS & LUNCHEON THIS SUNDAY

2011-01-04T00:00:00-05:00

After this Sunday's morning worship service we will take down the Christmas decorations & then enjoy a nice luncheon

If you have the time, we would love to have your help taking down the Christmas decorations after this Sunday's worship service. We will have a baked lasagna lunch after we are finished. Please bring a small covered dish or a desert to share if you are able (this is optional).

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER - MARCH 2ND, 2012

2012-02-01T00:00:00-05:00

Click here to learn about this Christian women's movement

March 2nd, 2012 is World Day of Prayer

World Day of Prayer is a worldwide movement of Christian women of many traditions who come together to observe a common day of prayer each year, and who, in many countries, have a continuing relationship in prayer and service.

It is a movement initiated and carried out by women in more than 170 countries and regions.
It is a movement symbolized by an annual day of celebration – the first Friday of March – to which all people are welcome.
It is a movement which brings together women of various races, cultures, and traditions in closer fellowship, understanding, and action throughout the year.

Through World Day of Prayer, women around the world

affirm their faith in Jesus Christ
share their hopes and fears, their joys and sorrows, their opportunities and needs

Through World Day of Prayer, women are encouraged

to become aware of the whole world and no longer live in isolation
to be enriched by the faith experience of Christians of other countries and cultures
to take up the burdens of other people and pray with and for them
to become aware of their talents and use them in the service of society

Through World Day of Prayer, women affirm that prayer and action are inseparable and both have immeasurable influence in the world.

World Day of Prayer is about Informed Prayer which flows into Prayerful Action. After hearing the voices of our sisters, experiencing their pains with them, and feeling their hopes and fear, we are empowered to act. Prayer and action are not two different things connected by a string but rather inseparable realms of our faith experience. To pray truly is to be changed. To truly let in a new perspective is to be changed. To act in accordance with these shifts happens organically. Action continues our prayer.

WDPIC Strategies for Prayerful Action

World Day of Prayer International Committee

Addressing Roots Causes of Human Trafficking

Strategies for Prayerful Action

"Hope is not the expectation that things will be better tomorrow; hope is the capacity to do the right thing today." –Mitri Raheb, Lutheran pastor in Bethlehem

EDUCATE ourselves and our communities:

􀂃 Talk about what we’ve learned! By sharing the personal stories we’ve heard, we can raise awareness, encourage people to consider the seriousness of the problem, and change inaccurate perspectives about the issue.

􀂃 Shop at the Body Shop, which has a line of products whose proceeds support anti-trafficking organizations and which actively educates consumers about the problem.

􀂃 Learn to recognize signs that someone is being trafficked. (See The Handbook on Planning Projects to Prevent Child Trafficking at http://www.terredeshommes.org)

􀂃 Educate women and men in our churches about the issue, pray about it, and discuss what our faith communities can do on the local level.

ADVOCATE for legislation and policies that combat trafficking:

􀂃 "The political empowerment of women and girls almost universally means less human trafficking." – Fmr. President Bill Clinton

􀂃 Support campaigns in the US to protect the legal rights of girls involved in prostitution and trafficking and to help them escape it, gain self-confidence, and learn job skills:

o ECPAT USA: http://www.ecpatusa.org/

o Girls Educational & Mentoring Services: http://www.gems-girls.org/

􀂃 Buy a TassaTag (www.tassatag.org) luggage tag to support ECPAT USA’s campaign to prevent sex tourism through building awareness, encouraging the cooperation of businesses, and advocating for policies that protect women and girls in destination countries. The proceeds also go directly to the Thai women who make the tags.

EMPOWER vulnerable women and children:

􀂃 Support micro-financing organizations, which provide women with economic resources and power, which in turns reduces their risk to become involved in trafficking. Examples:

o Grameen Bank: www.grameen-info.org

o MicroPlace.com: Invest in organizations that provide loans specifically to women. We especially recommend investing in funds through the Calvert Foundation, a transparent and reliable organization with solid financial statements.

􀂃 Buy fair trade, which allows women and children to have a sustainable livelihood, which decreases the chances that they will be sold into forced labor/trafficking:

o Fruit from Cameroon: http://www.partnersforjusttrade.org/ht/d/Store/pid/178

o HandCrafting Justice: http://www.handcraftingjustice.cedris.org/

􀂃 Support the Somaly Mam Foundation (http://www.somaly.org/), founded by a woman who survived years of sex trafficking in Cambodia. The organization seeks to rescue and liberate trafficked women and girls and to empower them as they create and sustain lives of dignity.

Recommendation Regarding WDP Response to Root Causes of HIV & AIDS and Human Trafficking

RECOMMENDATION FROM WDPIC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REGARDING WDP RESPONSE TO ROOT CAUSES OF HIV & AIDS AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING

An important part of the work of the WDPIC Executive Committee at our 2009 meeting was the evaluation of the prior Executive Committee’s recommendation to address HIV & AIDS over the period of 2006-09.

We discussed ways in which WDP committees have responded to the pandemic through educating communities, supporting existing networks that address the issue, helping churches understand women’s vulnerability, and understanding that HIV & AIDS affect all members of the body of Christ.

We understand that poverty and lack of education are some root causes of HIV & AIDS. As we considered the WDP 2010 service written by the women of Cameroon, we observed that the root causes of HIV & AIDS also contribute to the growing problem of Human Trafficking worldwide. Along with shared root causes, both problems relate to human sexuality. To further our understanding of Human Trafficking, we examined its pervasiveness, the suffering it causes, and the particular vulnerability of women and girls in the 7 regions.

With this awareness, the WDPIC Executive Committee recommends that we as WDP Committees expand our focus on HIV & AIDS to include Human Trafficking.

In particular, we recommend that WDP Committees

(1) Educate our members and our communities about the root causes of human trafficking, including but not limited to the ways that they are related to HIV & AIDS:

a. Learn what women are doing in the struggle against exploitation of women and girls, especially as it relates to sexuality.

b. Learn what we can do to address the issue in our communities.

c. Conduct workshops or programs on human trafficking and/or HIV & AIDS which are suitable in our context.

(2) Identify existing networks and programs which are already addressing the problems and find ways to give our support and work together to empower women and girls. Some examples include:

a. Micro-credit and fair trade enterprises

b. Programs that educate women and girls

c. Programs that advocate for justice at the legislative level

(3) Help our churches consider the role that stigma plays in contributing to or exacerbating the suffering caused by Human Trafficking and HIV & AIDS and to help them understand ways in which women are particularly vulnerable.

(4) Allow ourselves to understand that whenever any member of the body of Christ is suffering, the whole body is suffering.

Our decision to extend and expand our recommended focus on HIV & AIDS to include Human Trafficking results from our awareness of the root causes that contribute to both issues. We encourage WDP Committees to continue exploring and supporting HIV & AIDS work as it can best benefit women in our communities and around the world. Likewise, Human Trafficking causes immeasurable suffering in all regions of the world, and we encourage Committees to address it in their context, cognizant of the root causes.

The WDP 2010 service from Cameroon brings the topic of Human Trafficking to our attention. It is our recommendation that the attention given to this topic in Africa in 2010 shifted to Latin America for WDP 2011 from Chile, now to Asia for WDP 2012 written by the women of Malaysia, and then to Europe for WDP 2013 written by France.

In 2014 our efforts can be evaluated by the next WDPIC Executive Committee.

EPIPHANY????? WHAT'S THAT ALL ABOUT - CLICK TO LEARN

2011-01-06T00:00:00-05:00

The Following is Copyright General Board of Discipleship. www.GBOD.org and Used by permission.

Epiphany Reflections

by Safiyah Fosua

Epiphany
Many of us were introduced to Epiphany through the familiar silhouetted-image of Three Wise Men bearing gifts as they followed the Great Star by night. In some cultures, Epiphany is known as the Day of the Kings (Dia de los Reyes). It is also known as Twelfth Day or Twelfth Night, reflecting an old custom of giving a gift for each of the days from December 25 to January 6 for the 12 days of Christmas. The day has special meaning for a number of reasons. Several branches of Christianity celebrate the birth of the Christ Child on January 6 or January 7

The word epiphany means appearance or manifestation. Popular usage likens epiphany to words such as eureka or aha! Use of this word by some English speakers conjures images of having a light bulb turned on, or of being able to see something that was once hidden from view. The texts for the Sundays after the Epiphany dramatize the many ways that we people came to understand who Jesus was, through his baptism, the miracle at the wedding, or through that bodacious declaration in his hometown synagogue! But, this ever-widening circle of revelation began 'outside the circle' of Judaism, so to speak, with the Magi.

Who were the Magi?
Many versions of the Bible refer to them as the Wise Men. We often forget that these Magi or Wise Men were non-Jews. Older sources suggest that they were priestly descendants of one of the tribes of the Medes known for their knowledge of the stars (astronomy) and their ability to interpret dreams.

What can we learn from the Wise Men?

First, the Wise Men began their journey because of their beliefs.
It was a common belief that when a world leader like a king was born that a special stellar phenomenon would appear in the sky. The Magi saw something that convinced them that they had seen the long-awaited sign. Historians tell us that the Jews, the Romans, and the Persians were all watching the skies about that time, looking for signs of the birth of an extraordinary king. A few years before, around 11 BC, Halley's Comet had been seen. There were other stellar phenomena, including a bright star, Sirius, which appeared brightly in the daytime instead of at night. The Wise Men saw the star and began their journey.

May God give us all inspiration for this year's journey.

Second, the Wise Men were willing to follow what they had seen into unknown territory.
Their journey took them outside their country and their comfort zone. The Wise Men risked the consequences of disobeying Herod, who was known to behave as a madman when provoked and returned to their country by another way.

The Christian journey is often an off-road excursion.

Third, the Wise Men were committed to the journey -- wherever the star might lead.
The Wise Men set out to find a newborn King by following a star and ended up in finding a baby born to young, relatively poor parents! Not exactly what they expected and not exactly what befit their dignity as priests.

In this coming year, may we look to heaven for guidance and comfort and may we accept God's blessings in whatever forms we find them, just as the Wise Men accepted that their long, expensive journey led them to a baby born to young, inexperienced parents who lived on the poor side of town.

Finally, the Wise Men brought gifts.
They did the thing that people in the East or in Africa or in India would do when visiting royalty. They brought gifts.

Gold was the kind of gift that you brought to a king.
Frankincense was the kind of gift that you would bring to a priest.
Myrrh was given to someone who was about to die.

On This Twelfth Day, or Three Kings Day, otherwise known as Epiphany, think of the gift that you will offer to God in the coming year. The gift of time? The gift of your talents? Your service in the community? Your witness and testimony? The gift of undying love and devotion?

Their greatest gift comes to us in the form of a realization. The Wise Men were the first Gentiles to recognize that Jesus belongs to everyone. Good news is for everyone, not just a select few.

Star of wonder
Star of light
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading
Still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light.

Amen.

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS

2010-12-21T00:00:00-05:00

Here is a listing of those who donated the beautiful Christmas Poinsettias

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS

Sally and Paul Brown - In memory of loved ones

Nona and Stan Brown - In memory of loved ones

Ann and Mike Davis - In memory of Catherine Bosley

John Elicker - In loving memory of wife, Judie

Linda and Lew Elicker - In honor of our Saviors birth

Flo Goodling - Remembering Bob

Bill, Todd, Christian and Jenni - In memory of Hilda

Nan and Bud Hershner - In memory of our parents

Mary and Lynn Kraft - In honor of our youth

Barb and Tim LeBar - In memory of our grandson, Bobbie

Mary Joyce and Goodloe Love - In honor of Emanuel

Louise Martin - In memory of loved ones

Beulah and Rodger Ness - In memory of loved ones

Marcie and Rick Schnetzka - In memory of Roy Schnetzka

Tammy and Barry Shaffer - In memory of our parents and

In honor of our families

Joanne and Tom Townsend - In memory of loved ones

PLEASE PLAN TO STAY FOR A LUNCHEON THIS WEEK

2011-11-07T00:00:00-05:00

After morning worship service Bill G is providing a luncheon to celebrate the blessings of our music makers, veterans day and a bountiful harvest

Please plan on staying after this week's worship service as Bill G will be providing a luncheon to honor the music makers of our church (Sally Brown - Organist & Pianist, Lew Elicker - Choir Director, Our Choir, and all the rich voices of worship in our congregation. We are also honoring past & present veterans AND celebrating God's blessing of a bountiful harvest.

Don't miss this wonderful Christian morning of fellowship.

RACHEL KURTZ CONCERT (AND HAM SUPPER)

2012-03-02T00:00:00-05:00

Click to learn about this talented musician and her concert on March 17th

The concert is for all ages and the coffeehouse includes more than coffee - You get a full-blown ham dinner!

Tickets are $8.00 and you can pay at the door. However, please call 428-2811 by March 12 to reserve your seat.

The Grove Coffee House is located behind Salem Lutheran Church at 99 York Rd., Jacobus PA.

Rachel Kurtz will be in concert Saturday, March 17, 5:30 pm at the Grove Coffee House. Rachel Kurtz is an incredible singer/songwriter with a beautiful voice and an amazing story. Rachel shares personal testimonies of tragedy and triumph with a vulnerability that captivates her audience. She has performed at the last three ELCA Youth Gatherings and has had the opportunity to travel to Africa and India with her music ministry. She has a strong desire to make a difference in the world through her music and a passion for global justice.

VETERANS' SUNDAY AT EMANUEL - CLICK FOR INFO

2011-11-01T00:00:00-05:00

We will honor ALL vets, past and present at our morning service

Veterans' Sunday (November 13)

by Dean McIntyre, Dan Benedict, and Taylor Burton-Edwards (from the United Methodist GBOD website)
,

Veterans' Day in 2011 falls on Friday, November 11. In most years and most times, Veterans' Day passes in our churches with little or no mention. Historically and traditionally, Veterans' Day has been more a civic than a sacred observance. As with New Years Day, Mother's Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and others, Veterans' Day is not a part of the liturgical calendar — although sometimes local congregations will observe these days in some manner in Sunday congregational worship.

History

World War I ended on November 11, 1918, with the signing of the Armistice by the Allies and Germany. In the first Armistice Day proclamation in 1919, President Woodrow Wilson called for the nation to remember those who had died in their country's service and to make the day an opportunity for America to "show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nation."

In 1927 Congress called for the display of the U.S. flag on government buildings, and in 1938 Congress called for the observance of Armistice Day in churches and schools — again dedicating the day to the cause of world peace.

Note the order here: the nation was telling the churches to celebrate this day. This was not an initiative arising from the churches, but from Congress. The timing was significant. The strong stirrings of World War II had already begun in earnest in Europe. The United States was still reeling from the effects of World War I and the Great Depression, and the political climate overall was against any sort of engagement in wars.

Of course, within just three years, the United States became involved in the War "over there" in Europe and "way out there" in the Pacific.

Since the end of World War II, observances of Armistice Day have been held all over the nation, but especially in our national cemeteries and monuments and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, D.C. The president and many state governors have issued proclamations. Countless communities, veterans groups, and civic clubs and organizations have held local observances. Armistice Day became Veterans' Day by an act of Congress in 1954, changing its purpose and scope. President Eisenhower called on the nation to remember the sacrifices of those who fought in all our nation's wars, to celebrate the contributions of all veterans of military service, and to rededicate ourselves to the task of promoting an enduring peace. It is Eisenhower's call that remains the three-fold purpose of Veterans' Day: remembering those who fought and died, celebrating all veterans, and promoting an enduring peace.

At our worship service this Sunday, Emanuel Church will honor ALL veterans both past and present. If you were (or are) a Veteran, please wear your uniform, or hat or bring a picture of you in your uniform.

Please plan on staying after the service for a luncheon provided by Bill G to honor the music makers of our church and to give thanks for the blessing of a bountiful harvest.

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO CAME TO OUR CHURCH FOR CHRISTMASTIME IN LOGANVILLE

2011-10-20T00:00:00-05:00

The weather was perfect, the smiles were bright and everyone had a great day

Christmastime in Loganville is now behind us and what a terrific day it was. Lots of attic treasurers, crafts, plants, soups, sandwiches and baked goods were sold to happy new owners. And of course, Beulah's home-made cream puffs and e'clairs were the big hit of the day as always. Emanuel Church was bustling with conversation and laughter all day long as streams of old and new friends alike blessed us with a visit.

The Bluebird Society was a hit, with many of our visitors stopping to chat with the ladies and to learn about attracting bluebirds to their yards ,

We sincerely hope that you will come back some Sunday soon and worship with us at Emanuel. You will find a warm, friendly, almost family atmosphere (no fighting at Thanksgiving) :-)

If you couldn't make it this year, mark your calendar for next year. Christmastime in Loganville always falls on the Saturday BEFORE Thanksgiving, so it will be November 18th next year.

WHITNEY HOUSTON - WE DIDN'T KNOW HER

2012-02-29T00:00:00-05:00

The most beautiful voice ever heard on this planet has gone silent.

It actually happened long before Whitney Houston’s tragic death. Anyone who heard her in recent years, anyone who saw her in recent days, knows. She was a shell of her former self. This all seems too familiar: Young talent rises to fame, makes a huge impact on the world, peaks, makes bad choices, fails to maintain an expected level of success, begins to decline, public turns on them, famous person turns on themselves. Death.

Here’s the truth: We don’t know them. We didn’t know her.

Oh, we feel like we do. We watched Whitney grow up. We saw her on MTV and at the movies. We heard her on the radio. We saw this stunningly gorgeous women grace magazine covers. We watched as she wowed the world with a rendition of the National Anthem so stirring that it hit the pop charts. But we didn’t know her and frankly, we don’t really know anyone but ourselves. Worse than that, we fail to understand the power of the enemy that sought her destruction—the same enemy that seeks our own.

At the funeral service held inside the New Jersey church where Whitney perfected her voice, her friend and co-star of the film,The Bodyguard, Kevin Costner took the podium. In a moving tribute, he revealed that Whitney Houston didn’t always feel like a superstar; that she didn’t always feel good enough, pretty enough, or talented enough. He said that if he could talk to her now, he would tell her that as she’s being escorted by an army of angels to sing before God, not to worry. That she’ll be good enough.

The same goes for you. By grace, you have been granted a pardon. By grace, all that is wrong is made right. By grace, you are good enough. There’s nothing you can do to add to it. There’s nothing you can do to diminish it. As Jesus said, “It is done.”

No, we didn’t know Whitney Houston. We didn’t know her heart. But we do know ourselves.

And we know what we believe.

We know that if we accept the gift of grace given to us, it is then that we truly discover the greatest love of all.

By Curt Harding - Reprinted with permission from RETHINKCHURCH.org

REMEMBERING NATE KRAFT ON VALENTINE'S DAY

2011-01-18T00:00:00-05:00

We're sending Nate some "goodies" for Valentine's Day - CLICK to learn more

We will be collecting bagged snacks to send to Nate Kraft for Valentine's Day. Any bagged candies, hard candy, jerky, cookies, and what ever you think up. Or you could donate cash to use for postage to ship the box. Please include a Valentine card either way.

Let's make sure Nate knows we're thinking about him out there on the USS Momsen

ASCENSION DAY - DID JESUS REALLY FLY UP IN THE CLOUDS AND DISAPPEAR?

2012-05-04T00:00:00-05:00

Click to learn more about the 40th day after Easter

Ascension Day this year is Thursday, May 17th 2012. Many churches will celebrate it on the following Sunday (May 20th). However, Emanuel will celebrate it this year on May 13th.

Ascension Day Definition and Summary

The Feast of the Ascension commemorates Jesus' ascension into heaven 40 days after his resurrection. Thus Ascension Day falls 40 days after Easter, on the 6th Thursday of Easter. In 2012, Ascension Day falls on May 17th (dates in other years). In some parts of the world, the solemnity is celebrated on the Sunday after the traditional date. Prayers: Ascension Prayers

Introduction

Forty Days after the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Acts of the Apostles records Jesus' ascension into heaven. The ascension is an important Christian feast attesting and celebrating the reality of the God-Man Jesus Christ's returning to the Father, to return again in the future parousia. The Ascension is the final component of the paschal mystery, which consists also of Jesus' Passion, Crucifixion, Death, Burial, Descent Among the Dead, and Resurrection. Along with the resurrection, the ascension functioned as a proof of Jesus' claim that he was the Messiah. The Ascension is also the event whereby humanity was taken into heaven. Finally, the ascension was also the "final blow" so-to-speak against Satan's power, and thus the lion (Jesus) conquering the dragon (Satan) is a symbol of the ascension. Early Christian art and iconography portrayed the ascension frequently, showing its importance to the early Church.

The Catholic Catechism summarizes three important theological aspects (with which most Christian churches agree) of the Ascension concisely:

Christ's Ascension marks the definitive entrance of Jesus' humanity into God's heavenly domain, whence he will come again (cf. Acts 1:11); this humanity in the meantime hides him from the eyes of men (cf. Col 3:3).

Jesus Christ, the head of the Church, precedes us into the Father's glorious kingdom so that we, the members of his Body, may live in the hope of one day being with him for ever.

Jesus Christ, having entered the sanctuary of heaven once and for all, intercedes constantly for us as the mediator who assures us of the permanent outpouring of the Holy Spirit (665-667).

History

Evidence from John Chrysostom, Egeria, Gregory of Nyssa, and Church historian Socrates, suggest that Ascension Day probably originated in the 4th century AD. However, Augustine says the festival is apostolic. Often the feast was celebrated with a procession, symbolizing Christ's journey to the Mount of Olives. Until rather recently, the Paschal Candle (lighted at the Easter Vigil) was extinguished on Ascension Day. It is often celebrated as an octave, the proper preface and Ascension collect being used until the Saturday before Pentecost. In many Catholic dioceses and protestant churches, the Ascension is celebrated on the 7th Sunday of Easter, which is the Sunday following the traditional date. Likely, this is done to make it easier for the faithful to fulfill their obligation to attend Mass or Church Services on this day, but it removes the connection with the biblical chronology.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Isn't the Ascension of Jesus based on Outdated Science?
This question is not about Ascension Day per se, but related to the truth of the historical Ascension. However, belief in the ascension is directly tied to celebrating its feast. Some theologians and philosophers have asserted that modern people cannot believe in Jesus' ascension, because the story assumes a three-tiered universe. Many Biblical authors likely perceived the universe as three-tiered, in which heaven is spatially "up" above the sky dome. Luke may or may not have had this cosmology in mind. Even if he did, this does not discount the truth of the ascension. What ultimately happened at the Mount of Olives that day was that Jesus returned to the Father, to a numinous reality that is outside of what we think of as space and time. Assuming this return was miraculous (and I do), it likely wasn't a spatial ascending at all. It was an event above human perception and explanation. However, the witnesses had to render the event in terms they (and we) could understand, using the tools, knowledge, and science of the day (as we would do as well; we can hardly be expected to explain events in terms and frameworks beyond those of our day!). As such, the miraculous event was recorded as a spatial ascension, because we humans live within space-time, and conceive of reality spatially and temporally.

These ideas owe a debt to C.S. Lewis. In a 1942 sermon, Lewis described the Ascension as:

...a being still in some mode, though not our mode, corporeal, withdrew at His own will from the Nature presented by our three dimensions and five senses, not necessarily into the non-sensuous and undimensional, but into, or through, a world or worlds of super-sense and super space. And He might choose to do it gradually. Who on earth knows what the spectators might see? If they say they saw a momentary movement along the vertical plane - then an indistinct mass - then nothing - who is to pronounce this improbable?" (God in the Dock, p. 35; also see "Horrid Red Things," in Ibid. pp. 68-71)

2. Doesn't Jesus Ascend Immediately After the Resurrection in John's Gospel?
In John 20:17, Jesus says he must ascend to the Father. The text that follows implies that Jesus almost immediately "ascends" only to return later in the day. This ascension is for the purpose of Jesus' post-resurrection glorification. As to whether Jesus went "up" here, see the above question and answer. This ascension is historically and theologically distinct from Jesus' final ascension in Acts. The ascension mentioned in Acts, and celebrated during the Feast of the Ascension, is Jesus' final appearance on earth. Thus after ascending he becomes physically absent from the Church until the final parousia, i.e. his return to judge the living and the dead. Of course Jesus is still present to us, particularly in the Eucharistic bread and wine (which are his body and blood). In conclusion, I see no reason the two ascensions must be viewed as conflicting accounts, but rather both are two separate events, serving two very distinct, but important, theological purposes.

INSTRUMENTAL PRAISE MINISTRIES CONCERT 4PM THIS SUNDAY - AT SALEM LUTHERAN - JACOBUS

2012-04-28T00:00:00-05:00

Click to learn the details and more about the group

IPM will be in concert this Sunday, April 29, 2012 - 4:00 PM at Salem Lutheran Church in Jacobus, PA

DON'T MISS IT

Instrumental Praise Ministries is a sacred music group, founded in 1999 and based in south-central Pennsylvania. Led by Tracy Burke (trombonist), these dedicated musicians epitomize the art of music making. Ministering on trumpet, trombone, vocals, piano, organ and percussion, these Christian professionals perform at churches to praise God through his wonderful gift of music. Through their inspirational concerts, they also incorporate testimonies and speaking in a fresh and innovative way. Striving to promote quality sacred music in the church, Instrumental Praise Ministries blend the classic hymns with a fresh contemporary style.

For more info, visit their website at www.instrumentalpraiseministries.com

WHAT TYPE OF MUSIC DO YOU PREFER TO HEAR IN CHURCH??

2012-01-31T00:00:00-05:00

Please take our poll in "FORUM" - Click to learn how

Over 200 people have viewed the music poll in the FORUM section but ONLY 2 have voted. Did I mention there is NO CHARGE to vote? Please read below & then go vote

What is your musical preference when you attend a church service? Do you like traditional hymns or would you rather hear a more modern or contemporary style of music? Maybe you like both??

Please go to the horizontal menu at the top of the page and click on FORUM. There you will find a poll asking about your music preference in church. Let us know what you prefer. No need to identify yourself and you don't need to be an Emanuel member to join the poll.

Comments are also welcome but please keep them appropriate for reading on a Christian website.

Thank you,

ECUMENICAL SUNDAY IS JANUARY 22ND THIS YEAR - CLICK TO EXPLORE

2012-01-03T00:00:00-05:00

On this day we celebrate interfaith partnerships that link Christians and strengthen Christian unity through prayer and outreach ministries

On Ecumenical Sunday, we celebrate interfaith partnerships that link Christians and strengthen Christian unity through prayer and outreach ministries.

“And Jesus said to them, ‘follow me and I will make you fish for people.’ And immediately they left their nets and followed him.”
--Mark 1:17-18, NRSV

“A single person can sing a church hymn,” wrote Rod Stetzer in The Chippewa (Wis.) Herald (Dec. 2, 2011). “But a choir singing the same hymn gives it power.”

OFFERTORY PRAYER

Generous God, you give us so much, including opportunities to work and learn together. As we “fish for people,” open our minds and our hearts to new ideas and new ways of doing things so that your church may continue to flourish. In your holy name, we pray. Amen.

“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the
members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”
--1 Corinthians 12:12, NRSV

Ecumenical Sunday is an opportunity for us to celebrate the interfaith partnerships that link us with other Christians. We can join together in worship, plan a cooperative fund-raiser or have an interfaith Bible school. The possibilities are endless!

“I cannot imagine that there are separate wings in heaven, one for each denomination,” writes Michael Pommier in The Fort Scott [Kan.] Tribune (Nov. 13, 2009).

Growing up in the Catholic Church, he adds, “I continue to celebrate my faith.” However, he is perplexed that “people of different faiths do not get along simply because of their chosen faith.”

After all, Pommier continues, people of “all Christian faiths pray to the same God, just in a different way. If you walk up to a stranger and ask, ‘Do you believe in God?’ and they answer ‘yes,’ can you determine what faith they celebrate just by their answer?”

He offers an example of interfaith cooperation from his own community. “Members of St. Joseph Catholic Church and Arma United Methodist Church present a Christmas cantata and raise money for the needy in the community.

“In the grand scheme of things,” Pommier asserts, “no matter what faith you choose to celebrate, God hears your prayers. Spreading God's word is the goal of any faith community, so why not do it together?”

OFFERTORY PRAYER

God of unity, we are independent beings. Often we think we are the perfect person for a job and no one else can measure up. We forget that you created us to work together, to complement each other. Remind us today especially that your children are of many faiths—not just United Methodist. Guide us as we work, play and pray together. In your holy name, we pray. Amen.

reprinted from UMC.org

OUR LOSS IS HEAVENS GAIN

2011-01-24T00:00:00-05:00

Pastor Mathew M. Verghese has gone to be with his Lord - Click for picture and published obituary

Rev. Mathew M. Verghese, who lovingly served as pastor of Emanuel Church from July 1981 through June 1986 went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, January 18, 2011.

Many members of our congregation shared fond memories of Rev Verghese at a special time of tribute to him during our Sunday, 1/30/11 worship service.

His wife, Anna survives. A memorial service will be held at a later date in California. Condolences may be sent to Anna and the family at 2 Dickens Court, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

Mathew Verghese (1933 - 2011)

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Mathew Verghese, a Palm Springs resident since 1998, arrived at his heavenly home on January 18, 2011, following a history of coronary disease and diabetes. He was 78. Whether healthy or sick, he was always kind, generous and friendly to everyone. He was genuinely interested in the lives and stories of others and captured many of his thoughts and memories on paper. His friends and family fondly recalled his very moving and gracious notes. His favorite gift to receive was stationery and stamps because he was constantly writing encouraging notes to friends living throughout the country and world. He had a strong faith, enjoyed singing in church and loved reading the Scriptures. He enjoyed being involved in feeding the homeless early in the morning and also enjoyed his men's breakfast group gatherings. He especially enjoyed boasting about the achievements of his children and grandchildren. He was born in Kerala, India, on January 12, 1933, as one of five sons and a daughter. He earned a master's degree in English and taught literature from 1955 to 1968 at Lucknow Christian College, Uttar Pradesh in India, where he met his beloved wife Anna. They were married in 1958. In 1968, Mathew, Anna and their three children arrived in the United States with a total of $40 in their pocket (the Indian government allowed a maximum of $8/person). Their first home in the U.S. was a YMCA in Dallas, near where Anna worked at Parkland Hospital as a nurse. Later the family moved to Springfield, Mo., where Mathew taught for three years at Southwest Missouri State University. Then Mathew was called by the Lord to become an ordained minister, earning a degree from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. He served several congregations of the United Methodist Church, first in New Albany, Penn., and then in four other locations in the Central Pennsylvania Conference until his retirement in 1998. He is survived by his wife, Anna; a brother, Thomas of Tampa, Fla. and an additional brother and sister in India. Also included in the family are three children and four grandchildren, including daughter Vinita Verghese of Palm Springs, son Rajan Verghese with wife Angel and children Mathew, Christian and Molly, of Pittsford, N.Y., and daughter Sunita Cooke with husband Paul and son Dillon of San Diego, Calif. The family wishes to thank all the extremely caring nurses and doctors who attended to him over the past 12 years in Palm Springs and provided exceptional medical care. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 19, 2011 at the United Methodist Church of Palm Springs, 1555 East Alejo Road. Memorial donations benefiting Lucknow Christian College can be made payable to GBGM -Mathew Verghese Scholarship Fund, General Board of Global Ministries, UMC, 475 Riverside Dr., Room #1417, New York, NY 10115.

Published in The Desert Sun on January 30, 2011

BENEFIT CONCERT AT ARLINGTON EC CHURCH MAY 17TH

2012-05-10T00:00:00-05:00

The Equine Singers and the Chapelmen Quartet will perform

The Arlington EC Church is located at 585 Lombard Street, Red Lion, PA 17356.

It is just past the Weis Market Shopping Center parking lot on Lombard Street

The concert is FREE however to support the Red Lion Food Pantry, you are asked to bring a non perishable food item (or 2 or 3) for the Pantry. You may also give a cash donation if you would prefer (or both).

The Equine Singers are a fun group of people from the Equine Meadows Community in Red Lion, PA. They perform year round at local churches, senior homes, Brown's Market and other venues. Betty Folger is their accompanist and leader extraordinaire. She always provides a fun repertoire with a few surprises

The Chapelmen Quartet (below with accompanists & sound techs) is a music ministry that proclaims the exciting, good news of Jesus Christ through song and the spoken word. The Quartet, which is based in Red Lion, Pennsylvania has been actively ministering in the Central Pennsylvania area since 1983.

SHREWSBURY ELEMENTARY STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT CARING AND SHARING - CLICK HERE FOR THE STORY

2012-02-13T00:00:00-05:00

For the second year, the children brought in food items for the S York County Pantry through Emanuel Church

Michelle Johns, one of the kindergarten teachers at Shrewsbury Elementary School came up with a great idea for the school's 100 Days Celebration. The school has a celebration on the 100th day of school and the children all have projects of one type or another (arts, crafts and more). Her idea was for the kindergarten children to bring in 100 pieces of food items to donate to a worthy charity. Michelle had seen this web site and our affiliation with the Southern York County Food Pantry and asked us to come in, speak briefly with the children and take the food items to the pantry. The 3 other kindergarten teachers joined Ms Johns project with their children. These wonderful teachers tied this project in to their lesson plans through counting (math) and weights and measures (as listed on the boxes etc.). In a very few cases this was the first exposure to sharing some children had. The teachers taught the children about sharing and caring for other children from families that didn't always have food to put on the table.

A very special THANK YOU and a GOD BLESS to these 4 teachers and their classroom assistants for this wonderful project. Instead of collecting 100 items as planned, they collected over 250 items.

A lot of people will have healthy meals because of these teachers, assistants and their kindergarten children.

EMANUEL CHOIR TO PERFORM "STARS & STRIPES FOREVER"

2011-06-27T00:00:00-05:00

The Choir will perform their Patriotic Cantata 3 times this year.

Don't miss the opportunity to hear the Choir performing their 2011 Patriotic Cantata. You will have three chances to hear them perform this year's program.

Your first opportunity is at Zimmerman Place in the Lutheran Village in Shrewsbury on Wednesday, June 29th at 7:00 PM. The address is :

Zimmerman Place

800 Bollinger Drive

Shrewsbury, PA 17361

They will also perform the Cantata at Senior Commons At Powder Mill on Thursday, June 30th at 7:00 PM. The address is:

Senior Commons At Powder Mill

1775 Powder Mill Rd.

York, PA 17403

The final performance will be at the regular Worship Service at Emanuel UM Church on Sunday, July 3rd at 10:30 AM. The address is: