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A letter from Gary
What is a church? The soaring vaults and splendor of Basilica San Marco, or any of the other beautiful old
buildings in Europe, supported by public funds and tourist euros, emptied of worshippers? A civic institution, one
part provider of quasi-religious rites, one part human service agency? A social or political club, gathering people
based on economic class, racial identity or educational attainment?
In the United Church of Christ and Congregational traditions, the church is nothing more nor anything less
than a people “gathered” in Christ's name. We are formed by covenant, which is to say committed relationship. The
church is made new every time we lose one of the saints, and every time someone joins. We became a new church
last week, as we celebrated the life of Scott, and welcomed Kate, Paul, Cathy, Harry and Nancy into covenant.
The church universal has managed to adapt and survive for almost two thousand years. It will continue to do
so, but the particular form of church that came to dominate American culture after the Second World War will not.
Thousands of churches close every year, and more and more young people are completely unchurched, claim no
religious affiliation, not even the vague cultural Christianity the Protestant Mainline has pushed for several decades.
Adding electric guitar and video clips alone will not reverse this trend. I have been attentive to the decline of old
forms of church and the emergence of new forms for over a decade.
I am still learning the story of this gathered people, but some things are becoming clear. We are the strongest
church on the Blue Hill peninsula. We have tremendous talent, adequate resources, and a faith that is relevant, critical
in an age when media coverage of Christianity focuses on Creationists and hate-mongers. We must offer our loving
and evolving faith as an alternative to the religious demagogues. And we must adapt.
Several strands of my thinking came together as I listened to the Rev. Chris Davies, the keynote speaker at
our UCC Maine Conference annual meeting, on Saturday. The unifying theme seems to be that we are a “hub” church.
This is very different than the old civic “big steeple” way of thinking.
While most churches only face one “seasonal” adjustment in the worshipping community (either summer people
or snowbirds), we face several. We are not one church with a year-round population, we are many churches,
different from week to week, and every single part of that church matters, year-rounders, snowbirds, summer
people, and even, (gasp!) those from “away.” Rather than shutting down the “program year” during the summer,
we should be looking at ways to deepen our connection with and the faith of those who are here for only a short
time. For some, we are their primary church home. Still others will retire here. And families that may spend
Sunday mornings on the soccer field other times of the year bring their kids to church during the summer.
Understanding ourselves to be a church that serves a geographically scattered flock, we must improve our
technology to allow the worship, faith development, and mission programming of the church to be accessible to
members and friends wherever they are.
Other churches on the peninsula struggle to hire professional staff and maintain programming as attendance
declines. This will only get worse, as the lack of professional and prophetic leadership contributes to further
decline. Preserving our autonomy need not mean slow death! Why not experiment with models that allow us to
provide contracted pastoral and worship support to other congregations? As the hub of a network of churches,
we would improve efficiency and reach new communities, while benefiting from the unique passion and gifts of
those small churches.
Finally, a hub church is an incubator, a role with which this church is very familiar. Further streamlining our
governance and emphasizing experimentation and excellence will allow us to continue to serve the people of the
Blue Hill Peninsula, even as we learn new ways of being church and sharing the good news.
I am excited by the possibilities, and more than ready to walk with you, but in the end, you are the church.
Do you believe we have something to offer? Do you believe that the Way of Jesus is still worth pursuing? Does it
matter if your children and grandchildren become spiritually fit, learn compassion, resilience, hope?
Hope, holy imagination, and time together, sharing our passion and our love. May these anchor us in a
changing world.
Blessings,
Gary
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 2 Daylight Savings Time Ends November 6
Turn clocks back Saturday night November 5.
Ladies Day Circle NUTS will be on sale after church beginning November 6! We are meeting on November 10th at 10:00 am. All invited. For details, please contact Rose Small, 374.5346.
Ecumenical Advent Breakfast
The Third Ecumenical Advent breakfast will be held on Saturday December 3 from 8:30 to 9:30 am. Rev. J. Gary Brinn will deliver a time of inspiration. A babysitter will be provided. For further information call either Marilyn at 374.2325 or Dolly at 374.5561
Our website is bluehillcongregational.org
Our email address: [email protected].
To Reach Us: First Congregational Church
22 Tenney Hill, POB 444, Blue Hill, ME 04614 Office: 207.374.2891 [email protected].
The Friendly Visitor is distributed by email or first class mail 10 issues per year. Copies also available at the back
of the church and from the office. To receive the Friendly Visitor and all-church email messages, contact Wendy,
374.2891, [email protected]. Maine UCC email: [email protected], phone:
1.800.244.0937 website: www.maineucc.org ACE (All Conference Email) Weekly news from the
greater UCC church in Maine. For a subscription, www.maineucc.org.
Church Business Meetings
Business meetings are held after church on the 4th Sunday of January, April, July, and October. Annual Meeting is January 22, 2017, after church.
Church Phone Directory
May 2016 directory (July update) available by email, and paper copies available from office or back of church. Contact Wendy 374.2891. The 2015 Photograph Directory is available also. We are asking for a small donation to help cover the cost of printing. Any questions call Marilyn 374.2325.
Hour of Worship Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Men’s Morning Square The Saturday, Nov. 12, Men's Morning Square, 7:30 am, is almost upon us. Informal chatter, friendly guys, and good food shared. If you care to, bring something you won or made. Just put these in the middle of the table. Take them home when you leave. Election Day will be behind us finally. We won't have to tiptoe around the volatile topic for awhile. Call or email Rick Alexander if you are or "almost" are coming. 374.3766, [email protected].
Silence in Candlelight For prayer, meditation, and reflection, you are welcome to come Wednesdays 6-7 pm for silence in candlelight in the sanctuary. If you have any questions, call Holbrook Williams, 359.4428.
SignUp for eVisitor
Brief email newsletters go out to the congregation and to friends of church on our email list once a week, sometimes more, with the latest news and coming events. To receive this news, you need to sign up to Vertical Response. By signing up, you insure that you will continue to receive the latest news and information and we insure that our lists are accurate. Please sign up at: https://vr2.verticalresponse.com/s/efriendlyvisitor
Thank you, The Staff and Leadership of the
First Congregational Church of Blue Hill, ME UCC Note: A few copies of each eVisitor can be found placed at the back of church for those who don’t have internet.
We Have Two AED’s
The church has an AED (Automated External Defibrillators) on each floor. One is on the downstairs hallway wall, just outside the entrance to Fisher Hall. The other is on the wall in the back of the sanctuary, northwest corner, next to the stained glass window of Jesus and the sheep.
Pastoral Relations Committee
The Pastoral Relations Committee has one representative from each board. Members are: Sally Mills, Christian Education; John Murphy, Council; Betty Harris, Deacons; Barbara Seeger, Outreach; and Lisa Groo, Trustees. If you have questions or concerns you feel need to be discussed, please feel free to contact one of these individuals.
Secretary's Office Hours
Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 11:00 am - 2:00 pm.
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 3
Deacons Corner
The Deacons are excited about two new things becoming a part of our church life and invite you to join in them. In addition to occasionally providing flowers and coffee hour on a Sunday, we invite you to sign-up to be a greeter, usher, or lay reader. There will soon be more information about this. Also, a Care Team is being formed. It will partner with our pastor, Gary, in providing support and friendship to our church family by writing notes, making phone calls, and visiting. Are any of these something you like to do? Please let us know. And, if you feel called to this kind of ministry, we invite you to come to the Care Team formation group’s next meeting on Monday, November 14, at 2:45 pm in the Youth Group Room. We are blessed in all the ways our church feeds our spirits. Let’s give back!
Blessings,
Anne Parker and Betty Harris
Meetings
Deacons - Sunday, November 13, 11:45 am. Care Team Formation Group - Monday, November 14, 2:45 pm.
Community Compass The next Community Compass monthly meeting is Wednesday September 21, 8-9:30 am, Fisher Hall. Community Compass is made up of individuals, representatives of community groups/churches and others. The group’s mission is to bridge divides between economic groups and break the cycle of poverty in our region. For more information, contact Wendy Ritger, Bob Holmberg ([email protected]), or Tom Bjorkman ([email protected]). Monthly meetings are public and open to all.
Flowers in Worship The flowers at the offering table each Sunday add much beauty to our worship and provide an opportunity to celebrate a special occasion, honor or remember a loved one, or as thanksgiving and glory to God. The sign-up book for donating flowers is in the narthex. Flowers are available for purchase at Fairwinds with a 30% discount off loose stems on Fridays from 4:00 – 5:00 pm and Saturdays from 12:00 – 4:00 pm. The cupboard under the small sink in the kitchen has vases.
Submitted by the Flower Committee:
Lynn Cheney, Linda Elliott, and Peg Smith
Volunteer Opportunities
Northern Bay Residential Care Facility in Penobscot is looking for volunteers to be Buddies, people who can visit a resident on an occasional or regular basis, to provide companionship, for more information, call Marjorie at Northern Bay, 326.4344. At Home Downeast, Friends in Action Drivers: Drivers needed to drive people to their doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping, etc. You only need volunteer as much or as little as you can, and there is no lifting. To volunteer for at Home Downeast you can sign-up online at http://www.whcacap.org/at-home-downeast/hancock/donate-volunteer.php or call 374.5852. To volunteer for Friends in Action call 664.6016. TurnStyle: Volunteers needed at Turnstyle Clothing Tuesday and Saturday, ½ day. 374.9181 or drop in.
3rd Annual Dolly Fisher Fund Concert
Saturday, November 5, 7:30 to 9:30
pm Don’t miss this great concert! Performers include
Noel Stookey, George Stevens Academy’s top jazz combo, Stu Davis, Bill Gawley, Anne and Lin Parker, Nancy and Blaine Stoner, and Gerald Wheeler. All donations will go to our church’s Dolly Fisher Fund (provides food and fuel for those in need on Blue Hill Peninsula and Deer Isle/Stonington).
Islamic Center of Maine Eight from our church attended a dinner at the Islamic Center of Maine in Orono, October 29, along with a group from St. Francis Episcopal Church. It was a lovely evening with great food, fellowship and education about the Moslem faith. Those present expressed hope that that a group from the Islamic Center can visit Blue Hill, so we can return the hospitality and friendship.
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 4
Trustees Report
There has been a lot happening with the Trustees and the sub- and ad hoc committees of the Trustees. As far as the church building, our Sexton has been taking care of maintenance projects such as making sure that the handrail in front of the church is secure via concrete repairs at its base. He will also be stabilizing the granite steps by means of some concrete repointing work. Robert Grant is finishing up the soffit repair of the hole that has allowed squirrels and other rodents free access to the attic of the church. Hopefully, the critters will get the message and we will not need to give them a more formal eviction notice. Robert will eventually be inspecting the other corners of the church building to assess possible water damage. The Budget Committee has been meeting and has come up with a preliminary Budget for 2017. The work of this committee was started earlier this year than in years past so that there would be an idea of what the church needs financially before we begin the Stewardship Campaign. This will hopefully allow members and friends of the church to understand the financial direction of the church as they deliberate their pledge decision for the upcoming year. As an aside, thank you to those who have been keeping up with their 2016 pledge amounts in a timely manner, it really helps with the cash flow. If you have fallen behind in that area, it would be very helpful if you could catch up. Our thanks to Michael Donahue for leading the Strategic Planning group. There has been much positive energy, enthusiasm and direction from this group. The group decided to purchase a Development Data Base program called Servant Keeper to help with Stewardship by keeping better records. We want to thank the anonymous donors who made this purchase possible and a huge thank you to Marilyn and Rich Whittlesey who have been spending hours doing the data entry for the new program. Thanks again to the Men’s Morning Square for painting the garage at the Parsonage. Jerry Armstrong, Bill MacDowell, David Leonard, Rich Whittlesey and Rick Alexander all worked hard to get the job done and it looks great. Also, thanks to our Sexton for clearing to the side of garage so that the work crew could get close enough to that wall to paint it. The Personnel Committee, composed of Pam Curativo, Jane Story, Paul Huss, and Tom Bjorkman has met for the first time. Our goal is to set policies and procedures in place so that supervision of staff members is clear and uncomplicated for all concerned. If you have any questions, please refer them to one of the members of the committee listed above.
Respectfully submitted,
Jane Story, Chair
Christmas Angels Provide Warm Clothing to Children
The Christmas Angels program for 2016 has begun! The program provides gifts of warm clothing to children in need residing in Blue Hill, Brooklin, Brooksville, Castine, Penobscot, Sedgwick, Surry, Orland and Deer Isle/Stonington. Last year, 119 children were served from a total of 50 families. The program, coordinated by our church, depends upon the generosity of individuals, clubs and businesses in the area. Each Angel (volunteer shopper) will be provided with a detailed list of a child’s clothing wishes, including age (infants-18yrs), size and any specific needs. Individuals can shop for one or more children, and clubs or businesses are encouraged to organize teams to shop for one or more families. Shopping will take place in November and early December, with distribution of the gifts beginning on December 8th. The Angels are also collecting new stuffed animals and children’s and youth books – each child receives one of each. Contact Wendy to donate these. To learn more about how you can take part in the Christmas Angels program, contact Kim Williamson at [email protected] or 374,2092. To receive assistance from the program, please contact Wendy Ritger at [email protected] or 374.2891. As always, early sign-up by November 18th is highly recommended but all who contact the Angels by December 1st will receive assistance. Financial donations are always welcomed and very much appreciated. Please make checks out to First Congregational Church of Blue Hill, with a notation “Christmas Angels,” and put in the offering plate or mail to PO Box 444, Blue Hill, ME 04614. Thank you for helping us spread holiday cheer for 28 years!
Solidarity Harvest 2016 The organization Food and Medicine gave a presentation at the Islamic Center Oct. 29 on their work to alleviate poverty and empower workers in the greater Bangor area. One project, the Solidarity Harvest, distributed 1200 Thanksgiving meal baskets in 2015 to families in all 16 counties of Maine. They will do it again this year, and are calling for many hands to help pack food baskets at a Brewer church during the week of November 13. Adults and children -- all ages -- can help. More details to come. If you would like to help pack food baskets, please contact Ruth 374.2003, [email protected], or Wendy Ritger, 374.2891, [email protected].
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 5
Quarterly Meeting - October 23
With approximately 55 members present, the Moderator, Pam Curativo called the meeting to order at 11:25 am. Rev Paul Huss led us in prayer. Jane Story made a motion to accept the minutes of the July quarterly meeting. Gayle Durnbaugh seconded the motion. Motion passed. Pastor: No report Trustees: Jane Story reported that the soffit on the church was being repaired by Robert Grant. The Trustees are working on the 2017 budget. Thanked Michael Donahue for heading the Stewardship Committee. She also thanked those that had donated money for the church to purchase a new data base called Servant Keeper. Rich & Marilyn Whittlesey have been putting the church information into the program. There is a new Personnel Committee. The Men's Morning Squares painted the garage at the parsonage and she thanked all those who worked on the painting. A new well has been dug. It went down 140 feet and gives 5 gallons of water per minute. They are still waiting for the rest of the hook up for the well. Treasurer: Rich Whittlesey read the following note and highlights of the budget from Charlie Ferden. "Sorry not to be able to stay for the Quarterly Meeting today. My family and I want to thank everyone for your support during the past 3 months with your prayers, cards, phone calls and conversations. This means a lot helping us support our daughter Barbara who has been thought a lot and is facing many unknown challenges moving forward. Thanks be to God for our faith which allows us to face each day." Rich handed out the Treasurer's report for the first 3 quarters of 2016 (see attached Treasurer's report). The church has contributions at 123% of budget. Thanks to all for keeping up with your pledges and pledge increases. The total general fund income for the period is $133,396 (112% of budget) and total expense $151,396.00 (78% of budget). Bills are being paid. Gain in the endowment for the first 3 quarters $35,686. Cash on hand as of 9/30/2016 between checking and the Horizon Money market $100,853.72. General Operating $2061.66. The net from the Blueberry Festival $8414.00. This was $914 over what we had in the budget. The Search Committee came in under budget by $13,527.00. There was a fuel oil carry over of almost $1200.00 in the church fuel account. If you have any questions please call or email me ([email protected])." Charlie also thanked Michael Donahue and the Stewardship Team for their dedication and hard work. You will be hearing from them soon in a mailing that is being prepared to go out. Thank you for your continued support. Rich also reported that the church did not prepay for oil this year. At Gary's installation the collection amounted to $700.00 and it will be sent to Pilgrim Lodge. Stewardship: John Merrifield reported that the Stewardship team is meeting year round. Last year only 50% pledged, they would like to see 100% pledge. There will be different ways of being able to give this next year. One of new ways will be electronic. They are preparing the mailing that will be going out within the next 3 weeks. When you are figuring out what to pledge, ask the following question "why do you love this church and what are you going to do about it." Deacons: Anne Parker reported that 9 Deacons and Gary spent 5 hours at a retreat. The following suggestions were discussed: 1. Bible Study - Gary will be putting together a program for Sunday afternoon. 2. Gary will be holding a cooking class for middle school students. 3. What gifts do those in the church have to offer - ushering, greeting, reading?
4. Putting together a Care Team that could call on those homebound or sick, send cards, call someone, drive someone to church or other places they need to be. Parsonage: Caroline Werth thanked all those who had worked since April on the parsonage. The two pressing problems at the moment are the hooking up of the well and finding out where the leak is around the chimney. Christian Education: Tina Allen reported that the cappuccino sale went well and there will be a cooking class with Gary. Those in 4th grade and up will meet next week to discuss the needs and wants of the youth of the church. Is there a need for a confirmation class, an all ages program titled Messy Church or some other new program. Wendy Ritger reported that the UNICEF calendars were being worked on and that the Jack-o-lantern contest will be next week and the money raised will also go to UNICEF. Wendy also reported that she and Gary and some youth members attended the United Church of Christ annual meeting. Outreach: They are working on how Justice and Witness works. Nominating: David Leonard made a request that there be a temporary Trustee until January. This would be a non-voting ex-officio member. Lin Parker made a motion for Ruth Miller to be the ex-officio member of the Trustees; seconded by John A. MacCannell. Motion passed. Gayle Durnbaugh made a motion for Debbie Alexander to become a full member of the Music Committee. Seconded by Lin Parker. Motion passed. If you have a name of someone for a committee, tell it to a member of the Nominating Committee. Music: Carol MacCannell reported that on November 5th there will be a concert with the money going to the Dolly Fisher Fund. Nancy & Blaine Stoner are in charge and they could use some help with logistics. On November 20th there will be a potluck Thanksgiving dinner following the worship service. The Sunday after Thanksgiving there will be an Advent Carol Sing. Hospitality: Dolly Robertson thanked everyone for all the help with the many events that have been held this past month. Pam thanked Dolly and the committee for the lunch. Church Growth: Bill MacDowell reported that he and Lin Parker are co-chairmen. He also welcomed the five new church members. New Business: There will be a change in the time of the Christmas Eve services this year. They will be held at 5 pm and 8 pm this year. The Third Advent Ecumenical breakfast will be held on Dec. 3 from 8:30 am to 9:30 am. Gary will be the speaker. Gary then talked about the different terms that are being used dealing with current churches - the Civic Church which is no more and the Hub Church that should help the smaller churches in their area. Being no further business, the meeting adjoined at 12:05 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Whittlesey Church Clerk
Church Family Thanksgiving Potluck
After church November 20 All invited!
Organized by Music Committee Watch Bulletin and eVisitor for
Details.
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 6
Christian Education
To Parents: would you be interested in an after church all-family, all ages meeting in early December to worship together, and learn a little more about Advent traditions. If you’re interested, would after church a good time for this? Or would you prefer a late afternoon/evening Advent potluck get together? If so, Sunday, or another day of the week? Would love to hear your thoughts on this! Would you like to meet before church beginning November 27 to sing a few carols, both sacred and silly, and get ready for Christmas season? Let me know if interested. In November the K-4th grade group, with story, song, games and fun projects will learn about Joseph and his Coat of Many Colors and his further adventures. Sunday Nov. 6 and 13 in Sunday School for grades 5 and up: In addition to exploring our faith tradition, we will work on calendar pages for our UNICEF Calendar. November 20 we will have a special Thanksgiving project. Sunday School will meet in Fisher Hall November 27 for an Advent Circle, and our Advent projects will begin. Watch for more news about Advent events for families at our church. For more information about youth activities, contact Wendy Ritger, 374.2891.
Family Choir The family choir is rehearsing Saturday Nov. 12th, 10:00 am, and Sunday Nov 13, 11:30 am, in preparation for a song the group will sing at the service on Sunday Nov. 20. Singers, musicians, all ages, come join the Family Choir to perform in church occasionally. If you play an instrument and would like to play it with the group, let us know. All welcome, please contact Hunt, [email protected] or Wendy, 374.2891, [email protected].
Kids' Scratch Kitchen: India 4 sessions from 3-5pm beginning November 10. Grades 3-7. Join us for new tastes and new skills as we learn about Indian food during this four week program with our new pastor on November 10, November 17, and December 1, culminating in a kid-cooked family feast on December 8. Space is limited. Please contact the Church Office (info@bluehillcongregational or 374-2891) to register by November 4th.
Youth Group Coming Event: Saturday November 12th: PIE MAKING for the Tree of Life Food Pantry. Everyone is again invited to help break our record of making and baking 109 pies (!) to donate to the Food Pantry for Thanksgiving. It is so wonderful to help out our amazing food pantry and learn how to bake pies in the process. 9:00-11:30am 5th-8th graders to make pies 11:30-12:00pm Pizza lunch for all ages 12:00pm-2:00 pm 9th- 12th graders to make pie. We are seeking donations of pie ingredients: apples, canned pumpkin, 12 oz. cans evap. Milk, eggs, sugar, put in marked collection basket at entrance to Fisher Hall; ready-made pie crusts in refrigerator. And adult helpers are needed. For more info, Wendy, 374-2891 or Jenny Talbert, [email protected].
UNICEF
The jack-o-lantern contest made $94.51! Donors had a hard time choosing among the many beautiful jack-o-lanterns. While counting the donations afterwards, the kids and I decided to eliminate the competition and throw all the money in together for UNICEF. So, all pumpkins are declared winners! Thank you Congregation for your generous support.
Prayer Circle The Prayer Circle will meet Sunday November 13, 11:30 am. The Prayer Circle is our way of seeking God’s help in time of crisis for any of our members, friends or neighbors. As a group we believe in the scripture passage: “Ask and it shall be given; seek and you will find; knock and it will be opened unto you.” (Matthew 7:7.) We believe that there is strength in numbers. Anyone having a problem or prayer request may call or email any person in the prayer circle. Please note that each prayer request is confidential. Would you like to be part of the prayer circle? for more info, please contact a circle member.
The Reverend Gary Brinn 374.2892/374.7075 [email protected] Sallie Clark 374.7038 [email protected] Hildred Emerton 374.5559 [email protected] Karen Frangoulis 374.2804 [email protected] Linda Hoskins 374.2028 [email protected] Bobbi McNamara 374.3246 [email protected] Joan Merchant 374.5650 [email protected]
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 7
Gary said in a sermon…
…in case you missed it
….We reenact the Extravagant Welcome of Christ to the Table of Love every time we come to this table, every time we do the work of love, of inclusion. We do the work of Extravagant Welcome when a church prayerfully chooses to be Open and Affirming, and when we say that no matter where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here. Extravagant Welcome. Not just you are allowed to come if you dare, but we want you here, a proactive invitation. Like the parable of the banquet, we are called to go out into the street, to invite them in. This is the third mark of the United Church of Christ, Extravagant Welcome. Not begrudging welcome. Extravagant welcome. Come and see a place where you will not be tolerated...you will be loved.
from “Extravagant Welcome,” preached October 2, 2016
UCC Maine Conference Annual Meeting
Thank you to the church for making it possible for our delegates to attend the Maine Conference UCC Annual Meeting October 22 at Husson University in Bangor. Delegates Jenny Jacques, Joan and Steve Merchant, youth delegate Asha Kirkland along with a friend, Jasmine, and the Rev. Gary Brinn, and myself were there. I also attended an educational retreat given by the keynote speaker, the Rev. Chris Davies, a young pastor who works for the National UCC with a focus on millenials. She shared the results of a 2015 survey, written by those under 40 for those under 40 in the UCC, which got more responses than any other UCC survey ever. The survey was followed up with interviews/focus groups in each conference. The survey found there is interest in church from this group, and their needs may be different from those of an older generation. Many churches face declining membership and finances. Learning to provide a meaningful church for this age group is really important. There was much discussion of how to bridge the generation gap. A window of opportunity exists, if churches are willing to change, wonderful things can happen. More detail and references will be available soon, after I type up notes. I attended two inspiring short workshops. First, Nuts and Bolts to Planning a Communities Care Day” a description of a social services fair put on by a group of churches (presenter: Rev. Diane Wendorf). The second workshop was Reports from the Small Church Story Project: the stories of 10 churches with membership mostly from about 10 to 20, that all have vibrant worship, sustaining fellowship and bold service to their communities (presenters Rev. Doug Dunlap, Rev. Susie Craig, I picked up a lot of notes and documents at both, let me know if you’d like to hear more about them. The Rev. Deborah Blood talked about how positive her first year as the Conference Minister in Maine has been. These are changing times with some cuts to conference staffing and new organization as the UCC adjusts to financial setbacks, the need to become current digitally, and to help churches remain vital and grow. She said the UCC in Maine is changing and will continue to change. This can be difficult but it leads to transformation and will keep us going strongly into the future. Other Documents from the Conference are available from the church office including “A Vision: The Transformative UCC in Ten Years.”
-Wendy Ritger, Alternate Delegate
Music Committee Indian Summer seems to have passed and we are busy preparing for the holiday season and the coming of winter. Gerald has gone to England for his 2-week vacation and we want to thank David Friedell for serving as our guest organist in his absence.
First let me welcome Debbie Alexander to the Music Committee. She has already been serving as our Librarian and is inventorying all the music we have on hand. She has also volunteered to teach our music folks how to repair and restore the music that is worn from use or has been damaged. We are so privileged to have such a talented musician join us! In preparation for winter Nancy and Blaine Stoner have been orchestrating the 3rd Annual Dolly Fisher Concert fund raiser. They have a wonderful program set for us at 7:30 on Saturday, November 5th. One of the outstanding performs is our own Noel Stookey. And speaking of our own members, the George Stevens Academy Top Combo will be performing this year. Isla Brownlow and Nellie Haldane are both members of that wonderful band. We want to especially thank Laurie Stowe for convincing Director Steve Orlofsky to have his best group perform this community service. Additionally, you will hear Anne and Lin Parker as well as Nancy and Blaine Stoner. One thing this concert promises is to have something that will appeal to everyone. On Sunday, 20 November the music members of our church will once again organize a Church Family Thanksgiving Potluck. Watch for sign-up sheets and more details. The choir remains strong and a vital part of our church life. It requires a special form of dedication to the church to promise to be part of the service every week. We want to say “Thank You” to them all. Our next few meetings may have to be via computer. We have a lot of planning ahead for the autumn and Advent activities. And as some of you may know, we need to start preparing now for next summer’s Vanderkay Concert Series.
Respectfully Submitted, Carol C. MacCannell,
Music Committee Chair
Coffee Hour
Each week a different board or committee is assigned to provide refreshments at coffee hour after church, listed below. Additional food is welcome. Please contact deacon listed for the month with any questions. A schedule for the whole year is posted on bulletin boards and is available from the office.
DEACON
CONTACT DATE COMMITTEE
Stoner Nov 6 Trustees 610.9872 Nov 13 Outreach Nov 20 Nom Comm Nov 27 Pastoral Relations & Growth Smith Dec 4 Parsonage 359.3386 Dec 11 Christian Ed Dec 18 Deacons Dec 25 Music
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 8
A Look Back
Excerpts of Rev. Jonathan Fisher's diaries - November 1820
1 A little rain. Worked on shingling. Made latch and catches for hog's house door. Family all comfortable. Blessed be God for his goodness. 2 Cloudy and warm. Made a visit with Mrs. F. at Mr. N. Holt's. Evening very dark. 3 Breaking away after a rainy night. Finished shingling one side of hogs' house and made ready for shingling the other. Josiah worked for himself. 4 Josiah killed and dressed lamb. Josiah killed also a partridge. Mild and overcast. 5 Some rain after a stormy night. Preached at Bluehill, old sermon on account of the weather. 6 Partly overcast, cold. Worked most of the day on boards and planks for a latch. In the evening concert prayer meeting at my house. 7 Quite cold. worked 'till 10 am to stop rats out of my kitchen; then on latch. Attended at M. Stover's the funeral of Miss Hannah Deveraux. Josiah chopped wood to haul for winter and in the evening, went with Betsy to Deacon Walker's. 8 Josiah returned and part of the day chopped. Went twice to head of the bay and took account of boards bought of John Clough. Quite rainy. 9 Worked on hog's house. Went after partridges, killed one = 6 by me 10 by Josiah. 10 Quite cold. worked at framing timber for hogs' yard. Carried apples into the cellar. Very cold for the time. 11 Fair and cold. At 10 am set out on foot for Bucksport. Called at Capt. Parker's conversed upon religious subject. Called at Andrew Wood's and dined at Sam. Parker's. Made a short visit at old Mr. Burnham's. At half past 7 reached Capt. Buck's and took supper. Went on to Mr. Blood's. 12 Preached at Bucksport in exchange with Mr. Blood. AM on general atonement. PM on the agency of the spirit of God. Read in World Without Souls, an ingenuous satire upon prevailing irreligion. Cold snow storm. 13 Snow storm continues. Read in theological Repertory, a sensible essay on the Hebrew language. Toward night went to see Mr. Upton. Took tea. Went to Capt. Buck's and spent the night. 14 Fair and cool. Went and dined and made a visit at Mr. Blodgett's. Find myself quite unwell. 15 Quite indisposed though the night in my stomach and bowels. Mr. Chapman from Castine called. Proceeded to examine Mr. Childs regarding his qualifications to preach and gave him approbation. Revived a request to attend a council next week at Belfast. Exercised with headache. The weather moderate. Agreed to supply Sabbath next at Castine. In the evening attended a lecture at the school house preached by Mr. Chapman. Prepare to meet thy God, a serious discourse. 16 Mild and Foggy. Find myself more comfortable. For a cancer strong lye of red oak bark. For a corn the same of spirits turpentine. Set out for Bluehill. Came to Jedidiah Holt's and spent the night. 17 Calm and mild. Called on Mr. Warren, Mr. Brockett, Mr.
T Carter, and Samuel Leach. Dined at Mr. Brown's; visited old Mr. Burnham. Took supper at Mr. N. Hinckley's. Came thence home and found all well for which I desire to be sincerely thankful. 18 Fixed for a building place for ashes in hog's house. Worked on frame for Josiah. Fair and mild. 19 Preached at Bluehill. Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. Cloudy and mild. In the evening some rain. 20 Made preparation to go to Belfast. At 10 set out. Called at a number of places on my way and at 7 pm reached Capt. Buck's. Fair and mild. Took tea and went to Mr. Blood's. 21 Between 9 and 10 set out for Belfast. Sold on my way the Christian Education and 10 warnings to fornicators in verse. Offering these verses at a certain place the woman of the house said she would like to take a pair but she had no change. She said to her little daughter, "Where are those two cents that you had about the other day?" She replied, "I sent those by Daddy for some needles and he spent them for rum and did not get me any needles." This she said with much simplicity but I though it a severe satire upon the manners of the day. Came on thence 5 1/2 miles in a very severe storm of rain, though mire and water to the axles to Deacon Durham's. 22 Fair and pleasant after the storm. An Ecclesiastical Council I convened at Deacon Durham's of the following churches - Bluehill, Bucksport, Bangor, Spent the day in receiving communications from the First Church in Belfast and considering their standing. 23 Fair and pleasant. The council finished and voted its result and dissolved about 11 am. Wrote a page or two on a Thanksgiving sermon. Went to a school house and preached to about 30 hearers. Spent the evening and night at Mr. Goddard's. Overcast. 24 Mild and cloudy. At 9 am went on board the Packet for Castine. Quite calm. At about 2 pm landed at Castine. My passage given me by Mr. Caleb Smith of Belfast. 25Cloudy and foggy. Called on Mrs. Mirick. Found her very sick. In the evening attended conference. 26 Preached at Castine 3 sermons. Put up at Mr. Hale's. Foggy and misty. Mr. Child preached for me. 27 Fair and cold. Received of Mr. Hale for services $5.00. About 11 set out for home. Called and dined at Capt. Dunbar's. Came thence home. Arrived about half past six, found all well. Trust I feel in measure thankful. 28 Fair and quite cold. Wrote accounts. Went and attended the funeral of old Mr. Burnham. 29 Last night 4 or 5 inches of snow fell. More moderate. Worked at boarding hog's yard. Paid Nabby Wood for 2 days work-50 cents. 30 Thanksgiving. Quite cold. Preached at Bluehill. Wrote a letter to Parker Carleton. Sent him $5.00. In the evening went with Mrs. F. to John Wood's and married D. Taylor to Sophia Patten.
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 9
Welcoming New Members
We welcomed five new members to church October 23. Here is a brief biography of each. Paul Kelly and Kate O’Dell, 31 Parker Point Road, PO Box 421, Blue Hill ME 04614 508-340-7924; [email protected] Paul Kelly and Kate O'Dell moved to Blue Hill this past July to live close to their daughter's family. Paul is originally from Detroit and Kate from Duluth MN. They met in college in Ann Arbor MI. Over the next 45 years they're been blessed with 2 children, 2 grandchildren, no dogs, but many adventures living in diverse locals including rural Arkansas, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania, and urban Massachusetts, all the while seeking the meaning of life and perfect latitude (which they've happily found in Blue Hill!) Paul continues to be an elementary school teacher here in the first grade of the Bay School. Kate has been a nurse midwife and medical school academic, but now has transitioned to work as a nurse with the VNA Hospice here. They are interested in joining First Congregational because of its long and central role in the community promoting social justice. Catherine Moore, 68 Bridge Road, Brooksville, ME 04614, 326-4410; [email protected] Catherine Moore is the daughter of Pat True and the late Rev. Dale True. She lives with Pat in Brooksville, and works at the Bay School. Catherine grew up in New Hampshire, and was active in the NH UCC's Outdoor Ministries program, both as a camper and on staff, and once served as co-leader for a youth group biking week at Acadia (once was enough!). Nancy and Harry Pelton, 475 Reach Road, Sargentville, ME 04673; H: 772-485-4783; N: 772-285-5497; [email protected]; [email protected]; winter: 412 N. Smith Street, Apt 3B, Charlotte, NC 28202 Nancy was born and raised in Beltsville, MD, attended local schools and the University of Maryland and lived and worked in the area until 1970 when she moved to Pemaquid, Maine with her four children. She worked in, and later owned, a restaurant on the Pemaquid peninisula. In 1980 she went to work at the First National Bank of Damariscotta. Harry was born and raised in New Britain, CT, attended local schools, Tabor Academy, Trinity College and served two years in the United States Marine Corps. In 1960 he went to work in the banking industry in Hartford and later worked for banks in New Haven and Woodstock, Vermont. In 1984 he moved with his four children to the Damariscotta area and joined the
First National Bank where he met Nancy. In 1986 they were married and in 1992 he retired. Nancy and Harry remained in the greater Boothbay area until 2001 when they moved to Florida. Both were actively involved in the area, Nancy with the Miles Memorial auxiliary and the Boothbay Harbor YMCA Board and Harry with the St. Andrews Hospital Board. They were members of the Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club, very active in club activities including the cruising programs where they spent many days sailing on the coast of Maine and came to love the Blue Hill/Mt Desert area. In 2000 Harry served as Commodore of BHYC. Both continued to be active with a number of non-profits in Florida but missed Maine. They started renting in the Blue Hill area summers and in 2011 purchased their present home in Sargentville and gave up Florida in favor of an apartment in Charlotte, NC.
Parsonage Committee Just as we thought we were near completion of the parsonage restoration project we have had a couple of snags. First the well went dry a couple of times causing us to drill a new well. The good news was that we hit good water at 140 feet which was sooner than anticipated. The next snag was undetected till we had some of our recent rain. The problem turned out to be a chimney that was crumbling. It will have to be rebuilt. If this fall weather continues favorably the chimney is scheduled for rebuild before winter settles in. Hopefully then we can say that the restoration project is complete. We want to thank the Men’s Morning Square for the great job of painting the Parsonage garage. We saved considerable money thanks to David Leonard., Jere Armstrong, Rick Alexander, Bill MacDowell and Rich Whittlesey. Caroline Werth
Transgender, Family, and Friends Group TGFF meets the first and third Thursday of the month at 7:00 pm in Jonathan Fisher Hall. Upcoming meetings are November 3 and 17. TGFF offers a time for sharing stories and provides support for families, friends, and transgender people of all ages. As always TGFF keeps to the rule of privacy and what is shared in our meetings stays in that room. For more information, please contact Susan Yaruta Young, 460.6155, [email protected]. Thanks to all who are making TGFF possible.
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 10
First Congregational Church of Blue Hill, Maine, UCC Calendar of Events for November 2016
REGULAR EVENTS
Choir Rehearsal Sundays at 9:00 am Announcements Sundays at 9:55 am Worship Service Sundays at 10:00 am Simmering Pot Free Meal Mondays 2:30-6:00 pm Afternoon Bridge Games Wednesdays at 12:30 pm Parker Ridge Interdenominational Group Third Wednesday at 3:00 pm Silence in Candlelight Wednesdays at 6:00 pm TGFF support group 1st & 3rd Thursday at 7:00 pm Alcoholics Anonymous Fridays at 7:00 pm FA Support Group Saturdays at 8:30 am
MEETINGS
Christian Education Sunday the 6th at 8:30 am Outreach Thursday the 10th at 3:00 pm Trustees Thursday the 10th at 4:30 pm Deacons Sunday the 13th at 11:45 am Music Check with office Church Council Wednesday the 16th at 4:00 pm
SPECIAL EVENTS
Communion Sunday Sunday the 6th New Surry Theatre Rehearsal Monday the 7th, 6:30 pm Ladies Day Circle Meeting Thursday the 10th, 10:00 am Choir Monthly Midweek Rehearsal Thursday the 10th, 5:30 pm Men’s Morning Square Saturday the 12th, 7:30 am Youth Group Bakes Pies for Food Pantry Saturday the 12th Prayer Circle Sunday the 13th, 11:30 am Care Team Meeting Monday the 14th, 2:45 pm George Crosby Memorial Service Tuesday the 15, 3:00 pm Community Compass Meeting Wednesday the 16th, 8:00 am Community Compass Navigators’ Training Wednesday the 16th, 12:30 pm Thanksgiving potluck Sunday the 20th after church First Sunday of Advent Sunday the 27th
Milestones…
Wedding
Courtney Bowden and Cody Alley, October 8
Death Scott Peterson, September 24
Memorial Service
Scott Peterson, October 20
The Friendly Visitor November 2016 Page 11
Reverend J. Gary Brinn’s Installation October 15
As writer of this summary, I take the liberty to offer a huge THANK YOU TO RUTH MILLER! She was a great co-chair of our committee and was the driving force behind planning the Installation of our new pastor, Gary Brinn. There are too many to list (and risk omission), so I will mention by groups: the Search Committee, the Hospitality Committee, the Board of Deacons, the Sunrise Association, and many individuals who made it possible. Our Associate Conference Minister, Rev Darren Morgan, offered a sermon pointing out that we “have work to do” and raising seven questions for us….. How might you boldly proclaim that you are a growing, theologically-progressive congregation with a strong UCC identity who firmly believes that “God is still speaking.”
In what ways might your ministry reflect that you: Practice Joyful Welcome ? – practicing hospitality, encouraging outreach to others, and inviting new people to participate in your ministry; Seek Justice for All ? – identifying and responding to the needs of the marginalized and poor in spirit in the local and wider community; Are a Place of Continuing Testament ? – journeying together in faith, strengthening one another, educating new generations; Change Lives ? – impacting lives by meaningful worship, open discussions, and pastoral guidance, along with service in the community to achieve personal and collective growth of faith; Worship Together ? – gathering as God’s people to pray, praise, and hear the word of God and leaving strengthened to serve; Build Community ? – providing a variety of fellowship opportunities and encouraging small group participation to bind you together; and Look Forward ? – actively anticipating and responding to trends in your local community and the wider society so that you will remain relevant.
Humbly, Lin Parker
3rd Annual Dolly Fisher
Fund Concert Saturday,
November 5, 7:30 to 9:30 pm
Don’t miss this great concert! Performers
include Noel Stookey, George Stevens Academy’s
top jazz combo, Stu Davis, Bill Gawley, Anne and
Lin Parker, Nancy and Blaine Stoner, and Gerald
Wheeler. All donations will go to our church’s
Dolly Fisher Fund (provides food and fuel for
those in need on Blue Hill Peninsula and Deer
Isle/Stonington).
