Welcome Spring! Join us for… THE 2019 · clarinet Brenton Mattox, bass Jason Berger, tenor Sharon Babcock, mezzo-soprano Hye Eun Choi, soprano The Westminster Choir Paul Fleckenstein,

CHIMESThe Westminster

March 2019

1502 W. 13th Street • Wilmington, DE 19806 • (302) 654-5214 • www.wpc.org

The Westminster CHIMES is also available in full color—visit www.wpc.org.

Welcome Spring!Join us for…

THE 2019��

AT WESTMINSTER

Friday, March 298:00 p.m.

A concert sampling a wide range of great music:Sacred, Opera, Musical Theatre, Art Song, Spirituals, and more

Featuring

Christopher Nichols, clarinet

Brenton Mattox, bass

Jason Berger, tenor

Sharon Babcock, mezzo-soprano

Hye Eun Choi, soprano

��The Westminster ChoirPaul Fleckenstein, organ and piano

02 1502 W. 13th Street • Wilmington, DE 19806 • (302) 654-5214 • www.wpc.org

CLERGY COLUMNLENT: GIVE UP SOMETHING WEIGHTY Greg Jones, ��

The church in which I was raised placed no special emphasis on the liturgical seasons of Advent and Lent. Or, if it did, our pastor was so low key about these special seasons that it breezed right over my head. (This is quite possible!)

��personal Lenten practices was when a college friend, an Episcopalian, announced that she was giving up chocolate for Lent. Curious about this peculiar religious undertaking, I dug a little deeper to inquire about the point of forbidding herself the enjoyment of brownies, chocolate cake, and chocolate chip cookies for 40 days. Frankly, it sounded more like a diet than a spiritual practice.

She informed me that Lent was about giving up something for God. And not just giving up something, but giving up something that you enjoy – something that brings you pleasure. ��to individual Lenten discipline was not a ��to me, (confession: I am a chocoholic), but it did not cast God in the most favorable ��"��as “God is love,” the grim message seemed to be: “God is opposed to pleasure!”

In time, I gained a weightier understanding of Lent – the 40 day period from Ash Wednesday

to Easter (not counting Sundays) – and the blessings it can unleash in our lives. But it took a while.

Not surprisingly, Resurrection Day was the ��#��#��risen! It was not long before followers of Jesus developed a time of preparation for Easter. It appears that it was initially a two day fast. The two day fast grew into a weeklong fast, and by the fourth century it had morphed into a biblical 40 days of preparation for Easter.

Some continue to think of Lent as a dour season in which the church beckons on us to give up something that gives us pleasure so that we can focus more attention on how sinful we are. I’m not buying it. Lent is better understood as a time to ponder those things that draw us closer to God and those things that widen the distance between ourselves and God.

Of course, by “distance” I am not implying a physical distance, but rather a spiritual one. We cannot put a physical distance between ourselves and God because God is always as near to us as our breath. However, there are countless ways that we can distance ourselves from God spiritually – by


03March 2019

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS

Sunday, March 10

2:00 a.m.

Remember to turn your clocks FORWARD one hour before you go to

bed on Saturday night, March 9!

blotting God out of our minds, by focusing on destructive thoughts, by picking up harmful habits, by mistreating others…

Now we are talking about something substantial to give up for Lent! Not simple ��that prevent us from becoming the beautiful person God intends for us to become. Perhaps you need to focus on why you have a short fuse and during these 40 days you can pray for patience. Perhaps you are quick to stereotype people of another race and you need a constant reminder that each person is a unique child of God. Perhaps you ��$��%��you become more empathetic. Perhaps you

need to engage in a spiritual struggle to become more forgiving, generous, honest, courageous, or loyal. This way, you will not only be giving up something you truly need to jettison, but you will also be embracing a virtue that will draw you closer to God.

Our starting date is Wednesday, March 6, when we gather for our Ash Wednesday service, and concludes with our glorious Easter celebration.

Blessings,


“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth ... but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven ... for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:19-21The annual Stewardship Campaign is the primary source of funds for our church’s operating budget, supporting both our amazing ��$��&��$��'��$��our partners around the globe. But stewardship is more than just ��&��$��&��*��proposition! Giving to our church helps each one of us store up treasures… “where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in or steal…” Friends, this is the ultimate in long-term thinking!

We thank the many faithful stewards listed on the following pages who have made a pledge to support our church in 2019. It’s never too late to pledge – stewardship is not a once a year act of faith! Please go to www.wpc.org/pledge and complete your pledge. You can also pick up a pledge card on the literature table at church, or contact Colleen Falasco at [email protected] or (302) 654-5214, ext. 131. You can use the online giving feature on our website to make contributions toward your pledge by funds transfer from your bank, either with recurring donations at a frequency of your choice or by submitting individual transfer requests. Visit www.wpc.org and click “Donate Now” in the top right ��'��&��&��+

With deep gratitude on behalf of the 2018-2019 Stewardship Committee,

Craig Stabler, Stewardship Campaign Chair Rich Diver, Stewardship Committee Convener Ty Burns Michael Enderle Bobbe Hoy George Krupanski Barbara Steen Nicole Hughes Greg Jones


05March 2019

Rebecca S. AbelTaryn L. & Rich AlbertShawn M. AlexanderSusan M. AlexanderNora Andresen��Richard E. & Barbara ArmenDavid E. & Janice AtadanRoger W. AtkinsCharles W. & Sharon K. BabcockKenneth S. & Lisa A. BachmanAlfred E. & Elizabeth BaconWilliam B. & Nancy BarlowKenneth & Fay D. Barnaby��Paul L. & Elizabeth Wells BechlyDonald J. & Janet E. BeddieKaren BeerLinda L. BeyerPaul R. & Amy BickhartBrenda S. BilousLewis S. Black, Jr.Adam C. & Jennifer A. BlackfordHerbert S. & Nancy BodenCarol BovaM. Elizabeth & Ronald BowersockJohn R. BowmanCharles D. & Turner BrollSally M. BrooksDianne M. Browne��Donald & Meg BurichK. Ty & Catherine D. BurnsRichard B. & Natalie S. BushRuss & Michelle ButlerSarah L. Buttner

Hugh C. & Naomi CampbellThomas & Martha CarperRonald F. & Kimberly CarrickJohn C. & Signy L. CarsonJames T. Carter & Polly E. Pyle-CarterRobert P. CaugheyH. Beatty ChadwickRobert A. & Virginia ChagnonChad H. & Diane ChandlerEleanor CharlesCraig S. CheckelRobert L. & Jeanne T. CheckelHelen B. ChristieEdwina ChurchillJeannice H. ClarkBarrett J. & Rosemary CobbNancy B. ColbertArthur W. ColbournRobert C. & Peggy Cole��P. Clarkson & Donna CollinsJoan M. ConnollyRobert E. & Linda B. CoxTravis L. & Emily A. CrawfordJoe D. & Patricia CunningJean & Robert CustinJoseph E. & Tamra L. DaleyChristopher F. & DeVon DanielsLinda DepferMartha DeWeesPeter E. & Karen F. Dietz��!��"Donald L. & Joyce L. DinselNancy L. DiverRichard L. DiverAlice W. Donaghy

Charles W. DonaghyJohn A. & Nancy L. DoyleElizabeth A. DrennenSara DubberlyThomas M. Eliason, Jr.Michael J. Enderle��#��#��#��William B. FarnhamJerry A. & Barbara M. FedelerMary K. FieldJessica J. & Matthew FischerPaul A. FleckensteinJacob R. & Teisha L. FooksThomas A. FordLouis F. & Ann FortunatoAmanda FoxNicole FoxKara Lee FrancisWilliam A. & Rosemary C. FrancisDonald L. & Eleanor J. Furry!��$��

Krentz ��%��"��'��(��!��))��$��*��+��

Barrington!��"��

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��J. Richard & Mary Kay HadenH. Theodore & Virginia HarckeCarol N. HarrisRobert C. & Janis HarrisonDenison H. & Wendy Hatch��/��Constance H. HenkeJoan E. HenkeJonathan R. & Jamie HickeyBarbara & James K. HigginsHelen C. HigginsKathrine B. & John HoganThomas E. & Carol E. HogueRichard A. & Laura A. HolmesMatthew M. & Tara HoopesBarbara A. HooverHoward F. & Nancy HorneLouis A. & Kristine A. HortonSusan Knoll HortyRichard J. & Mary-beth HowardBarbara M. HoySarah F. HurlockWalter E. & Rebecca HuzarCharles L. IngersollFrederick W. IobstEmmett S.* & Ann JacobsAnn W. Jarrett$��

��%��

�7Brock W. & Barbara JobeSteven C. & Janice B. Johnson

Steven R. & Carol L. JohnsonJ. Patrick & Sandra K. JohnstonJohn F. & Dede JohnstonRichard T. Jolly��)��+��8��Ruth A. JoslinWilliam Kaye, IIIBeatrice KelleyHelen H. KelleyPaul & Kathleen KellyDon M. & Marlys M. KerrFernando F. & Lynne A. KielhornFletcher A. & Alexandra W. R. KingRobert C. Kline, Sr.*Sylvia B. KnielKalmia E. Kniel-Tolbert��'��'��8Johannes R. KrahmerKevin L. Krick��7��*�Faith B. KuehnCynthia H. KuespertCatharine F. LangMary LaskarisFrederick B. Law, Jr.Mitzi Kiser LawTara J. LeeVirginia D. LeeJanet Lemons��/��"�Ralph L. LewisSuzanne R. & Robert C. LindermanJ. Patrick LittleMary Longenecker

Jeanette LoniaArun Loptes & Karen AsenavageMargaret P. LounsburyRobert H. & Cynthia D. LoveDennie T. & Marsha M. Mah%��$��Anne D. MarshD. Patrick & Nancy MartinKristen W. & Scott M. MarvelDavid A. & Jennifer MáthéRichard H. & Jean M. MayDaniel F. McAllister & Caroline BeanDavid C. & Sally McBrideKelly McCullochDebra E. McCulloughCharles S. & Mary Lou McDowellJohn D. & Penny McFarland3��$��Robert A. McKeownJon R. & Susan McPheetersDavid V. & Nancy MichenerJohn H. & Eleanor MichenerBarbara F. MitchellRobert A. MooreWilliam R. Moore & Jane E. Palmer��5�$��%"��$��:�;;;Alice H. MorseMark & Carol MosherWilliam K. & Ruth M. Nace5��!�(��Frederic F. & Donna M. NelsonSudie Niesen Thompson$��%��

*Deceased


07March 2019


WESTMINSTER PROPERTY NEWS

If you attended the Annual Meeting, you may have noticed that Westminster has a new projection system in Community Hall. All of us enjoyed brighter images in sharper focus. What a pleasure! (Now the status �&��$;�remember, we need your pledge and ongoing support!) In Classroom 6, similar improvements have occurred, making both spaces even more useful in the years ahead. These upgrades are just two of many projects overseen by the Property Committee. With such a beautiful and expansive facility, serving the congregation as well as the wider community, the physical plant of the church has continual needs. As the Property Committee addresses these needs, we want to keep everyone informed of our progress through a short monthly report in The Chimes. Westminster’s Pavilion


09March 2019

��$��$��$��?��&��QUQX��is an extraordinary achievement and will allow the church to manage an ongoing 10-year plan of property needs with minimal impact to the annual budget which is supported by our pledges.

The second initiative involves the Pavilion. How many of you noticed that the narrow vertical strips of oak veneer at the corners of the Pavilion walls had bubbled and rippled? Moisture, along with shrinkage, had caused every strip of veneer to buckle. In early January craftsmen repaired the surfaces and applied new layers of solid wood. The Pavilion looks great again, but probably only the most observant had spotted the problem. Addressing the problem now saved the church from a higher repair bill in the future.

Many other projects are planned or underway, as we continually seek to maintain this splendid facility that means so much to all of us and to so many throughout the community. We will continue to share news of these initiatives in the months ahead and welcome your feedback. We thank you for your support and extend a huge note of thanks to Paul Crothamel, Director of Facilities and Security, for all that he and others do on a daily basis to care for Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Convener Bob Ridout, Charlie Babcock, Gary Bryde, Jim Carter, Bob Chagnon, Denison Hatch, Brock Jobe, and Pat Johnston serve on the Property Committee, with the counsel of esteemed advisors Bill Nace and John McFarland.


WHO ARE OUR CHURCH OFFICERS?��

ELDERS

Class of 2019Ty BurnsKaren DietzCathy HigginsBarbara JobeKelly McCullochMark MosherMargo ReignHelen Zumsteg

Class of 2020Karen BeerChad ChandlerRich DiverPeter GildnerCarol Hogue#��Kent SmithJanet Steinwedel

Class of 2021Sally ButtnerMichael EnderleJan PatrickTodd PiercyRoger ReinickerBarbara StrattonMary VaneSusan Williamson

Moderator: Greg JonesClerk of Session: Jan Patrick

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Class of 2019Bobbe HoyMary Lu PammBruce WeberDan Weintraub

Class of 2020Gary BrydeDenison HatchTom PrestonBarbara Steen

Class of 2021Charles BabcockFred IobstBrock JobeBob Ridout

President: Fred IobstVice President: Tom PrestonSecretary: Dan Weintraub

BOARD OF DEACONS

Class of 2019Amy BickhartRon CarrickNancy DiverTeisha FooksNicole FoxLuke MáthéSally McBrideMary Lou McDowellAnn ShadduckHugh UnderhillLois UnderhillLowell UnderhillGen Wallace-RoeDebbie Wise

Class of 2020]��^��Roger AtkinsLiz BaconKyle CarrickBarry CobbLaura HolmesLouis HortonKris MarvelDan McAllisterDebbie McCulloughJennifer TrickeySandy White

Class of 2021Jennifer BlackfordBeatty ChadwickTara LeeMarsha MahBlair McConnelRobert Moore_��`&��Sandie ReinickerMartha SpaethlingLisa StoddardJosh ThomasPam White

Moderator: Amy BickhartVice Moderator: Lisa Stoddard


11March 2019

EVERYONE IS A STORYTELLER – BE A PART OF MAUNDY THURSDAY THIS YEAR

Even though it may seem as though we have just taken down our Christmas trees, the Westminster ByHeart��'��$��{`#��&��|��the Maundy Thursday worship service on Thursday, April 18, at 7:00 p.m.

Have you ever thought about learning to tell a biblical story by heart? Joining Westminster ByHeart Storytellers as we prepare for the Maundy Thursday Worship Service is the perfect opportunity to try out your storytelling skills. Here is what you can expect. We read the story together (usually during the 10:TEN education hour on the Sundays leading up to Maundy Thursday). We enter it as you would enter any new space – senses alive, noticing all we can, sharing what we hear, see, feel, touch, smell, taste, and wonder. We take one word at a time, one phrase, one image, one action, one character, one emotion, one line – one thing at a time. We reread the story. We read it out loud. We listen to others in the ensemble and learn from one another. We research, we compare translations, we ask questions. ��&��$��}��~��Questions like, “Where is God in this story?”, “Where am I in this story?”, “What does this story have to say to modern listeners?” In this process we familiarize ourselves with the text, and we gradually begin to internalize the story. Learning to tell a story by heart is, at its deepest level, a personal spiritual journey that is later shared in a worship setting with hopes that it might feed the spirits of other believers.

If you have ever wanted to be a part of the Westminster ByHeart Storytellers, we would love to have ��


SPIRITUAL FORMATION FOR ADULTS March 2019 – 10:10 a.m.

MARCH 3

The Gospel of Mark Presenter: Greg Jones

What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? How do his teachings speak to us today? Join us for an in-depth look at the teachings of Jesus, ��$��'��&��&��ending of this gospel. We will focus on the last half of the Gospel of Mark, but knowledge of ��&��&��

��Connecting Women, History and the Clothes That Tell Their Story Presenter: Karen Jessee

Join Karen as she combines humor and history on this fashion journey of women’s most outrageous silhouettes… and a peek underneath them all… to see how the culture of the times

�~��&��&��&��Antoinette of the 1770s to the British Invasion of the 1970s. A small display and audience participation are all part of the fun.

MARCH 10

Preparing for the Public Reading of Scripture Facilitators: Sudie Niesen Thompson��#��`&��

Perhaps you have seen the headlines related to foodborne illness and contaminated leafy greens. Ever wonder what causes these recalls and cases of illness that seem to be increasingly reported? In this class we will discuss contamination events and delve into the recent Romaine lettuce outbreak investigations. The last 15 minutes or so of this class will be devoted to your food safety questions.

MARCH 10 AND 24

Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise: Making a Meaningful Life Presenter: Janet Steinwedel

The media seems to be awash with how to be happy, but is happiness enough? Are we all meant to be happy? Do we even know what makes us happy? More than happiness, most

“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:15). At Westminster, we value having a diversity of voices “bring good news.” That's why we invite congregants to read Scripture aloud in worship. Whether you are a seasoned Lay Reader or someone who is new to the public reading of Scripture, proclaiming the Word requires practice and preparation. This session is an opportunity to learn techniques for the oral interpretation of Scripture so that you are equipped to read aloud with confidence and clarity. Whether you would like to hone your skills as a Lay Reader or try your hand at reading Scripture in worship, this session is for you!

13March 2019


people want lives that have value. How can we truly make a meaningful life for ourselves? Our health, our wealth and our wisdom are important aspects of making a truly good life. Come and share your thoughts and go home with some new insights and ideas for making the most of “your one wild and precious life.”*

*From “Summer Day” by Mary Oliver

MARCH 17

Becoming a Stigma-Free Church Facilitator: Dr. Josh Thomas

��^��$��>��illness. Mental health challenges impact many who are living with these diseases or love someone who lives with mental illness. As a church community, we can support each other in a way that helps dissolve the stigma associated with mental illness and create a safe ��&��]��$��&��lessons from his law enforcement career and apply them to mental health. Dr. Josh Thomas is the Executive Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Delaware (NAMI Delaware).

Guatemala Partnership: A New Chapter Presenters: Meg Burich and Chris Hickey

Please join our recent Guatemala travelers as they share stories about the new partnership with CEDEPCA, how Westminster’s microloan

groups are blossoming, and the impact the $��indigenous communities. The progress of our partnerships is exciting!

MARCH 24

Gratitude: The Research behind Living Grateful�� `��#��{��

In recent news and talk shows we hear a lot about gratitude, happiness, and mindfulness. Although, these terms and acts of well-being have existed since the beginning of time. Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop on gratitude. This research-based intervention will examine the etymology of gratitude, and the joys and challenges of daily gratitude practices. This is an interactive workshop which requires brief standing.

��!"��#��"��$��%�� Facilitator: Sue Linderman

White people are unaccustomed to talking about race and its implications in their lives. Yet, at some level, everyone recognizes that racism and prejudice have a profound impact on our communities and our country. We need opportunities to experience the challenges and

��&��into the light of day.

continued on page 14


MARCH 24, 31 AND APRIL 7

Staying Connected: How to Use Your Phones and Tablets to Connect with Loved Ones Facilitator: Hugh Underhill

This workshop will focus on texting, facetiming, emailing and using some social media to communicate with loved ones. Please bring your device with you to the workshop. Note: This workshop will not focus on repairing devices.

MARCH 31

What’s Happening in Anti-Aging Research? Presenter: Jim Lee

Futurist and investment advisor Jim Lee of StratFI will share insights on how and why

we’ll live longer, look better, and be happier. Join us to learn more about: the factors behind aging and where progress is being made, recent advances in regenerative medicine, and simple things you can do to extend the quality of your life.

APRIL 7

Stress: Why Can’t I Find My Keys and Why Can’t I Touch My Toes? Presenter: Kathleen S. Matt

Kathleen S. Matt, PhD, is the dean of the University of Delaware’s College of Health Sciences. In this presentation, she will discuss the impact that stress has on the mind and body and share strategies for reducing stress and improving overall health. Come learn how nutrition, mindfulness, and other tools can be used to live your best life.

ARE YOU CONSIDERING MEMBERSHIP AT WESTMINSTER?Sundays, March 17 and 31

10:10 a.m. in Classroom 5

Have you been considering membership at Westminster? Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for a two-session series on March 17 and 31 at 10:10 a.m. Membership Exploration series are wonderful opportunities to learn more about Westminster Presbyterian Church, to discover ways to connect with others in the congregation, and to explore ways to serve within and beyond our community. For those who wish to join the Westminster congregation, there will also be an opportunity to do so at the end of the second session. Questions? Contact the Rev. Sudie Niesen Thompson at [email protected] or (302) 654-5214 ext. 103.

15March 2019


WESTMINSTER CHURCH HIDDEN TREASURES

eet the wonderful people who dedicate time and energy to lead Christian Education sessions and care for our children and youth on Sundays throughout the year.Nursery (8:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.): Kristin Wolanski, Beatrice Taylor (Ms. Bea) ^��?��_��^��`&��

Preschool Godly Care (9:10 – 10:00 a.m.): Teisha Fooks, Director First Sunday: Becky Huzar, Chelsea Collins, Jen Máthé Second Sunday: Sylvia Kniel, Kali Kniel, Mary Lou McDowell Third Sunday: Sandy and Steve Wermus, Teisha Fooks ��_��|��{�� Fifth Sunday: Adam and Jenn Blackford, Trina Hogan Youth Assistants: Greg Máthé, Kristian Tolbert, Keira Tolbert, Grace Wermus

Preschool (10:10 – 11:00 a.m.): Jeanne Checkel, Sue Weissinger, Tara Hoopes

Godly Play�XU��XUUU��]��]��]��"��`��"��Chandler

Sing-to-Praise and Joyful Noise Choirs�XU��XXUU��"��'��^��;��Assistants: Suzie Hurlock, Bob Moore

��&��'*�� (10:10 – 11:00 a.m.): Sue Spilecki (and Rudy), Mike Gnade, Sandy Wermus, Diane Chandler

Middle School (10:10 – 11:00 a.m.): Meg Burich, Walt Huzar, Susan Williamson

180° Youth Ministry (5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday evenings): Tommy Neilson, Josh Cox, Emily Knepper, Molly McPheeters, Chris Hickey

Summer Sunday School (10:10 – 11:00 a.m.): Volunteers sign up for each summer Sunday

Vacation Bible School (July 22 – 26): Robin Rosser, Director, and many teachers and helpers

Thank you to all of these generous people for making it possible to continually strengthen our Christian Education programs for youth and children who come to Westminster Church.


COALITION FOR SMART JUSTICE The United States incarcerates its citizens at a higher rate than any other country in the world. We are home to 5% of the world’s population yet have 25% of the world’s prisoners. Our incarceration rate has increased more than 700% since 1970 as our criminal justice culture moved toward maximizing the number of people sent to prison. Delaware imprisons people at a rate higher than the national average and higher than any of our neighboring states. This is a crisis for the individuals involved, for their families, for the local, state and federal entities that bear the cost burden and, by extension, the taxpayers.

Launched in 2018, the Delaware Coalition for Smart Justice is a group of organizations and individuals who advocate for a criminal justice system that fosters public safety by reducing mass incarceration, recidivism and racial disparities. It uses public education, community organizing and grass roots advocacy to challenge the system and create change ��$��individuals, families and communities.

Members include: ACLU of Delaware, Delaware Center for Justice, League of Women Voters Delaware, Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League, Pacem in Terris, Campaign for Smart Justice Delaware, Coalition to Dismantle the New Jim Crow, Delaware Civil Rights Coalition, Delaware United, H.E.A.D.S. U.P. in the 302, NAACP Delaware State Conference, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Network Delaware and the Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice.

2019 Legislative Priorities

• +�$�/��/&��*/�� by requiring judges to do an ability to pay analysis, eliminate driver’s license revocation and eliminate the use of warrants for failure to pay.

• Revise drug statutes to remove location-based enhancements for all drug crimes, change the ��&��&��

• Allow concurrent sentencing for all criminal laws instead of requiring sentences for certain cases with more than one charge to run consecutively.


17March 2019

WPC VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2019

“EXPLORE WHERE GOD’S POWER CAN TAKE YOU”

;��<

'=>@�Q�Q��=��

Preschool to rising 6th graders

Daily Bible stories with music, games, crafts, snack time. Leaders and teen helpers needed.

For information or to volunteer, contact Robin Rosser ([email protected]).

• "��$��X��$�&�� to allow for release of individuals who are not a ��&��

��&��and ill inmates.

• Expand second chances through an expungement bill that will reform the availability of expungement for adults.

• Expand and improve criminal justice data transparency on issues such as the imposition of &��$��

Westminster’s Peace and Justice Work Group is exploring opportunities to work with the Coalition to ��$��&��*��


THE SHIP IS ON ITS WAY��!��"#$

A hearty thank you to generous Westminster members who, over the week of January 20, donated hundreds of bags of clothing, blankets, school supplies and personal hygiene items to Narenj Tree Foundation. The mission of the Foundation is to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to displaced Syrian communities. Westminster members’ valued donations will give refugees renewed strength despite overwhelming obstacles in their journey.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) states that more than 13 million Syrians have been displaced due to the civil war, now in its eighth year. Clothing and other essential supplies are donated, collected and packed monthly in 40-foot containers. Narenj Tree, from their warehouse in Norristown, Pennsylvania, has now shipped Q��'��$��'��up to $7,000 per container, therefore, there is also pressing need for direct monetary donations. Once in Syria, donation centers resemble retail storefronts to preserve the dignity of the Syrians receiving

this life sustaining assistance. Using vouchers, people select what they need. Other items are distributed directly into the refugee camps. Narenj Tree additionally supports an orphanage for special needs Syrian children ��assist these populations. Caring hearts are essential to rebuilding the lives of tens of thousands of refugees. Please remember these victims of war in your prayers, that there may be a peaceful resolution to the war and a successful reconciliation of opposing groups.

To help those who are forgotten become unforgettable, visit www.narenjtree.org/videos or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/narenjtree.

Supporters and volunteers of the collection to Narenj Tree Foundation, including Westminster members Mary Vane %��&��'��(�)��(��%��second from right)

Camilla Jones and Mary Vane sort the many donations ��-��.��)��/

19March 2019


MEALS ON WHEELS – MAKE SOMEONE’S DAY! City Fare Meals on Wheels is a wonderful organization that has operated in Wilmington since 1986. It provides hot, nourishing meals to hundreds of housebound elderly and disabled people in New Castle County. You can imagine how many volunteers are needed for this to succeed, so I’m hoping we can increase our participation with this life-enhancing ministry.

The time commitment is approximately 90 minutes starting about 11:00 a.m. once ��$��'��{��$��'��^��{��&��$��&��^��because Meals on Wheels is very accommodating with everyone’s schedules, they ��*��$��XU��$��$��$��'*��permanent volunteer.

From my personal experience I have found this to be a very rewarding experience, with minimal time commitment. I hope you’ll consider volunteering for this extremely worthwhile outreach to homebound members of our community.

��If you’re ready to volunteer or if you’d like more information, please contact Melissa at (610) 742-7828 or [email protected]. Thank you!


GUATEMALA PARTNERSHIP: THE TIDE IS RAISING ALL SHIPS by Chris Hickey

It has been a transformative year for the New Castle Presbytery (NCP), the Association of Mam Christian Women for Development, and CEDEPCA largely due to the creation of Ignite. There is an aphorism that suggests, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” In this case, Ignite has lifted up all three groups in this partnership as they explore and grow together.

Ignite is responsible for granting funds (formerly held in Speer Trust and West Legacy) to congregations and organizations within NCP with the intention of sparking new, creative, bold, and inspired missional partnerships in our communities and abroad. In that same ��{��_��#��#��invited a Presbytery-wide leadership team to travel with them to Guatemala in January 2019. Other trip members included: Jessie MacMillan (Connectional Presbyter), Lynette Kenton (NCP

Treasurer), Kim Jackson (Pastor, Dover), Terry Dougherty (Pastor, Ocean View, Ignite Board), Edwin Estevez (Pastor, Riverfront & Grace Methodist, Ignite Board), Julius Jackson (Elder, Community, Ignite Board), Meg Burich (Elder, Westminster), and Chris Hickey (Youth Leader, Westminster).

One of the highlights of the trip was the agreement signing with CEDEPCA. After 20 years of traveling and working together, NCP and CEDEPCA felt called to enter into a formal three-year ��$��#`��and to sending at least one delegation to visit Guatemala annually. In turn, CEDEPCA promises to facilitate our intercultural encounters and send at least one delegate to visit us in the United States each year. Both groups will continue to pray for each other and work together on mutual projects. You can watch the agreement signing ceremony here: ��Z�=**��Q��*[$��\�\]�][

21March 2019


After our time at the CEDEPCA headquarters in Guatemala City, we traveled to San Juan Ostuncalco to visit the women of the Association of Mam Christian Women for Development. We met with various NCP-sponsored microloan groups to see their progress and to enjoy ��*��{��$��>��partnerships and participating in bible studies where we recognized that we are all children of God and must have faith while being open to God’s help. These microloan groups showcased their reforestation projects and family gardens. It quickly became clear that these women are the most vulnerable to climate change. Last year, there were hailstorms and inconsistent ��'��

Other groups gave us tours of their impressive inventory of livestock – ��$��

��'��XQ��'��to serve us an afternoon feast! Overall, it was inspiring to see such a continued demand for this successful program, which continues to make such a lasting impact on the lives of these women.

We also had a dinner and a morning meeting with the Board of Directors of the Association. We were able to personally congratulate them on all their hard work during 2018. Our favorite ��QUX��#`��`��$��

the number exceeds what can be stated with that limit.” (Read the entire four-page report to NCP here: https://tinyurl.com/yd3n7wkv) Some projects in 2018 included: family gardens, stoves, VIP ��$��#__`#^��&��'��&��?��Association, and prayer partnerships. Thanks to the generosity of Westminster members, we were able ��'��&��X��U��XU�$��{��*��#��{��Committee also provided funds for product-monitoring by the women, to insure that the stoves, ��

This partnership is open to all churches in New Castle Presbytery. Please join us! To learn more about ��$��#��) or Cathy Higgins ([email protected]) or check out wpcguatemala.wordpress.com.


WANT TO MAKE A BIG REDUCTION IN YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT?

Did you know that meat consumption creates more global greenhouse gas emissions than cars? And that the animals are also a large contributor to water pollution? That means that the food choices we make, particularly switching to plant-based meals, can have a huge impact on the environment.

By some calculations, skipping one hamburger is equivalent to eliminating 200 miles of driving!

Lent gives us a good time to think about our food selections and their impact. On March 6, at the supper after the Ash Wednesday service, there will be an opportunity to choose yummy vegetarian soups. And on April 3, the Earth Care Task Force will host a delicious plant-based dinner followed by a presentation by a Master Food Educator from the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension entitled “Vegetarian and Vegan Diets: Fact and Fiction.” There will be recipes to take home!

{��$��&��+��see you at these events!

23March 2019


RECENT DEATHS

Those Who Have Joined the Church Triumphant

We remember the families of those ��3��5��will be comforted in their loss and be

assured that their loved ones have 6��!��-��)��7��&�

Emmett S. Jacobs

March 17, 1926 – December 21, 2018

Edward R. Hagopian

October 29, 1930 – December 24, 2018

Elizabeth Uhlinger

September 10, 1919 – January 2019

Robert C. Kline, Sr.

May 27, 1927 – January 26, 2019

FLYING SOLO ACTIVITIES FOR MARCH

We are a group of singles who meet to support each other in friendship, through social activities and fellowship. All are welcome to join us, and we are always looking for new participants. Curious about Flying Solo? Contact Bill Kaye at [email protected].

Sunday Brunch��{��Sunday of the month at Catherine Rooney’s in Trolley Square at 11:15 a.m. Upcoming brunch dates are March 3 and 17.

March 29 (Friday) – Dinner at 5:00 p.m., followed by a spring concert at Westminster (7:00 p.m.) with our own Paul Fleckenstein, soloists and choir.

Friday Night Dinners (non brunch weekends)

– Generally the second and fourth Friday of each month, we gather for dinner at 6:00 p.m. at various restaurants. Locations to be determined. Contact Cathy Lang at [email protected] for information. This month’s dinners are on March 8 and March 22.

Pastors The Rev. Dr. Gregory K. JonesThe Rev. Sudie Niesen Thompson The Rev. Jill Getty

WPC Director of Marketing ��Communications Nicole Hughes

Graphic Design by Trellist Marketing & Technology

Next Chimes Deadline: Monday, March 11� at 11:00 a.m. For the April 2019 Issue Submissions can be made at www.wpc.org/communications

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PAID��

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ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE AND DINNER

Wednesday, March 6

6:00 p.m.

Lent – the 40 day season during which we prepare for Easter – begins Wednesday, March 6. Please join us as we mark the beginning of the Lenten journey with our Ash Wednesday �� UU��}��~��meditative service includes a reminder of our mortality with the imposition of ashes on our foreheads. There will be a soup supper immediately following worship in Community Hall.

1502 West 13th Street Wilmington, DE 19806 302-654-5214 www.wpc.org

Documents

Welcome Spring! Join us for… THE 2019 · clarinet Brenton Mattox, bass Jason Berger, tenor Sharon Babcock, mezzo-soprano Hye Eun Choi, soprano The Westminster Choir Paul Fleckenstein,