Sunday, August 9th
Bulletin
Sunday School Lesson
Sheet Music
(copyright license CCLI #176957 and #20480319)
what’s on the menu….
We Welcome All
We, the Williston Federated Church, declare ourselves to be an Open and Affirming, Reconciling congregation. With God’s grace, we seek to be a congregation that includes all persons, embracing differences of sexual orientation, gender, marital status, age, mental and physical ability, as well as racial, ethnic, or social-economic background. We welcome all to share in the life and leadership, ministry, and fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities and blessings of participation in our congregation. (Open and Affirming/Reconciling statement adopted by the Williston Federated Church congregation in 2006.)
July is minority mental health month
This Minority Mental Health Month, NAMI is Raising Awareness About Mental Health in Underrepresented Communities
NAMI Releases Three New Videos in the “Strength Over Silence” Series
Jul 01 2020
Arlington, VA — NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, has the goal of raising awareness about mental health care in underrepresented communities. Our culture, beliefs, sexual identity, values, race and language all affect how we perceive and experience mental health conditions. In fact, cultural differences can influence what treatments, coping mechanisms and supports work for us. It is essential for culture and identity to be a part of the conversation about mental health care.
In 2008, July was designated as the Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month by the U.S. House of Representatives in honor of the leading African American novelist and journalist, who sought to eliminate stigma among diverse communities.
In the wake of both the pandemic and racial violence, there’s the potential for an increase in the number of people impacted by mental health conditions. NAMI’s Statement on Racism emphasizes that the effect of racism and racial trauma on mental health is real. While anyone can experience the challenges of mental illness regardless of their background, facing racial discrimination can significantly worsen symptoms. Additionally, background and identity can make access to mental health treatment much more difficult. Racism is a public health crisis, and we stand with all the families, friends and communities who have lost loved ones and experienced trauma.
To help raise awareness, NAMI is releasing the latest installments of the “Strength Over Silence” video series, highlighting three personal stories featuring courage, culture and community. Yulanda Ming Blackson lives with mental illness and shares her story about mental health and faith in the Black community. Poojah Mehta, a NAMI New York Board member, focuses on amplifying the voices of those in underrepresented communities. And Rosemary Ketchum, the first-ever trans woman to get elected in West Virginia, shares her family experience with mental illness and addresses the need for LGBTIQ+ people to have a voice in the mental health movement.
“We want to raise awareness about disparities in the mental health system – and what we can do about them,” said Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., CEO of NAMI. “Mental health conditions don’t discriminate, and neither should our mental health system. We are calling for systematic change and improved access to culturally competent care, so no one feels alone in their journey.”
The NAMI community is here to help and provide resources. Together, we can help people from underrepresented populations get the mental health care they need. For additional resources, please visit NAMI’s identity and the cultural dimensions of mental health webpage.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.
Join the conversation at nami.org | facebook.com/nami | instagram.com/namicommunicate | twitter.com/namicommunicate #NotAlone
worship 6/21/20
Welcome To All Who Worship Here!
Fathers Day Sunday – June 21, 2020, 9:30 A.M.
GREETING
CALL TO WORSHIP Ashley Dubois, Lay Leader,
Williston Federated Church
(inspired by Psalm 86)
One: We trust in you O God, for you are forgiving and loving and good.
All: You alone are great and do marvelous deeds, you alone are God. we need your help.
One: Teach us your way, so we may follow you truly. Heal us and put us back together, one heart and one mind.
All: For you O Lord, are gracious, and kind, tender and merciful. Amen.
PRELUDE Carol Schein
WELCOME Pastor Paul Eyer
LITANY OF PEACE FOR FATHER’S DAY
One: Loving God, we lift this day our gratitude for the loving men who have brought us the precious gift of love and caring. We give thanks to you this day:
All: For those who have shown us kindness,
For those who have shown us courage,
For those who have shown us generosity,
For those who have shown us truth,
For those who have shown us compassion,
For those who have shown us faith,
For those who have shown us love.
One: Blessed be the name of all sons and brothers and fathers who reveal a glimpse of your loving presence on earth. O God, you inspire your people in the ways of kindness that lift our world from its disgrace.
All: Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer for every son, brother, father, grandfather, who has suffered and endured.
One: And we lift your hope of healing for all sons, brothers, fathers, grandfathers
who live in mystery as your creation,
All: May they grow in Father Love to your glory.
One: Hear our prayer, O God, for this broken world. We pray for peace this Father’s Day. Amen.
LIGHTING THE PEACE CANDLE
SHARING THE PEACE OF CHRIST
ANTHEM “I Believe” by Mark Miller
Video compiled by Marcia McFee and Mark Miller (using Mark’s composition) for opening worship for the “virtual” clergy session of the New England United Methodist Conference on June 11, 2020.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
One: God of those empty of hope and those who are cast out:
All: into the chaos of every life you enter with love;
One: when we choke on bitter memories, you hand us the cup of healing;
All: when we wander down lonely streets,you bring us home to your heart.
HYMN “Spirit of the Living God” (sing twice) Songbook #84 (led remotely by Martin and Donna Sue Hain)
(copyright license CCLI #176957 and #20480319)
~~~~~~~~~~
TIME WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES
Scripture: Genesis 21:8-21 Read by Lizzy Pope
Hagar and Ishmael Sent Away
The child grew, and was weaned; and Abraham made a great feast on the day that Isaac was weaned. But Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, playing with her son Isaac. So she said to Abraham, “Cast out this slave woman with her son; for the son of this slave woman shall not inherit along with my son Isaac.” The matter was very distressing to Abraham on account of his son. But God said to Abraham, “Do not be distressed because of the boy and because of your slave woman; whatever Sarah says to you, do as she tells you, for it is through Isaac that offspring shall be named for you. As for the son of the slave woman, I will make a nation of him also, because he is your offspring.” So Abraham rose early in the morning, and took bread and a skin of water, and gave it to Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, along with the child, and sent her away. And she departed, and wandered about in the wilderness of Beer-sheba.
When the water in the skin was gone, she cast the child under one of the bushes. Then she went and sat down opposite him a good way off, about the distance of a bowshot; for she said, “Do not let me look on the death of the child.” And as she sat opposite him, she lifted up her voice and wept. And God heard the voice of the boy; and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven, and said to her, “What troubles you, Hagar? Do not be afraid; for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is. Come, lift up the boy and hold him fast with your hand, for I will make a great nation of him.” Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. She went, and filled the skin with water, and gave the boy a drink.
God was with the boy, and he grew up; he lived in the wilderness, and became an expert with the bow. He lived in the wilderness of Paran; and his mother got a wife for him from the land of Egypt.
PRAYER OF ILLUMINATION (Psalm 19:14)
All: May the words of my mouth and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, our strength and our redeemer.
SERMON “Proclaim the Good News?” Pastor Paul Eyer
CELEBRATIONS AND CONCERNS
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Pastor: Lord of Life and Love,
Congregation: Hear our prayer.
SILENT MEDITATION
LORD’S PRAYER
OFFERING
OFFERTORY Carol Schein
If you’re interested in setting up automatic online withdrawals, please contact Matt Bliss who can invite you to set up an account with our online church membership software, Realm. When logged in, select the “Giving” menu on the left hand side and the “+ Give” button on the next screen. Then, enter your giving details and payment information to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. Select one of the pledge accounts (e.g., Pledge Jul 2020 to Jun 2021). Frequency should be set to monthly on the 15th. You can follow the same process to make one time contributions too. If you have any questions, contact Matt Bliss at blisswm@comcast.net. Or you can complete a hard-copy registration form (posted on the church Facebook page) and mail it to Matt Bliss at the church.
Credit card contributions can be made on the church website at steeple.org.
PRAYER OF DEDICATION (unison)
We offer our gifts to you, as well as our lives, Loving God, so they might find their way to those who need your grace, your hope, your joy, and your peace in their lives. Amen.
LIFE AND MISSION OF THE CHURCH
— annual congregational meeting following worship on Sunday, June 21 (via Zoom)
–Vitality Team meeting on Wednesday, June 24 at 10:00 a.m. via Zoom
–Centering Prayer on Thursday, June 25 at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom
–“How We Respond: congregational conversations about racism” on Thursday, June 25 at 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. via Zoom
–online Sunday worship services via Facebook on Sunday, June 21, at 9:30 a.m.
HYMN “Give to the Winds Thy Fears” Hymnal #129 (sing only verses 1 and 2) (led remotely by Martin and Donna Sue Hain)
(copyright license CCLI #176957 and #20480319)
BENEDICTION/BLESSING
POSTLUDE Carol Schein
Liturgical resources: The Call to Worship (inspired by Psalm 86) is adapted from http://calltoworship.blogspot.com/2014/06/22-june-2014.html. The Litany of Peace for Father’s Day was adapted from a litany from the Discipleship ministry of the United Methodist Church found at https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/litany-of-peace-for-fathers-day
The Prayer of the Day and Prayer of Dedication are adapted from “Lectionary Liturgies” by Thom Shuman, found at http://lectionaryliturgies.blogspot.com/2014/06/liturgy-for-june-22-2014-pentecost.html
This Week and Beyond at WFC
In addition to prayers offered during our worship services, prayer requests may still be sent to Pastor Paul via email at pastoreyer.gmail.com. These prayers will then be lifted in prayer by the pastor throughout the week. (If you would like to submit prayer requests to be shared during our online worship service, please send those requests to WillistonFederatedYouth@gmail.com or post them as chat comments during our video live-stream of our worship service on Facebook Live on Sunday.)
~~~~~~~~~~
Access to church building – please note
In an effort to ensure health and safety, the Official Board has closed our church building to everyone except the Daycare, their clients, and church staff. It is understood that other people need to have limited access to the building for a variety of reasons. We are asking that those who want access contact Tony Lamb at 802-343-1544.
Access is limited to the North Williston Road entrance. Those entering are expected to take their temperature before entering and not enter if they have a fever or do not feel well. They are also expected to wear a mask, to use the hand sanitizer located inside the door, and to “social distance” at all times. They should use the hand wipes on the door knobs when leaving.
As the statewide restrictions are eased we will be engaged in ongoing conversations about how and when (gradually) to open our spaces.
Remember that the building is closed but the Church is open, carrying out ministry in support of God’s work in the world.
For more information contact Tony Lamb at 802-343-1544.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Stewardship Campaign Continuing— Have You Been Counted?
Many thanks to those who have returned their Estimate of Giving cards for 2020-21 to the church office or to Barb Bristol, Financial Secretary. Thus far, nearly 40% of those who have already pledged have increased their financial commitment— yet another sign of the exceptional generosity of our congregation during these challenging times!
Our Spring Stewardship Campaign has not concluded, as a number of members and friends have not yet confirmed their commitments for the coming year. If you are in this group, please prayerfully consider your support of Williston Federated Church, and confirm your financial commitment for July, 2020-June, 2021 by Tuesday, June 30 (the last day of our fiscal year). You may do so by returning your card to the church office; by renewing your pledge via Realm, or by calling or emailing Barb (fbbristol@gmail.com; 863-5807). Thank you!
If you attended last Sunday’s Annual Meeting, you know that increased financial support from the congregation is needed to fulfill all the ministries of the church this coming year. So please give generously. If you have any questions about your pledge, or if you have already pledged and are in a position to increase the amount, please contact Barb directly. Thank you again.
Apart but Still A Part— Williston Federated Church, continuing to do God’s work near and far.
Your Finance Committee
~~~~~~~~~~
Kids4Peace is offering virtual summer camps for $50 each session, kids grades 6-12. To learn more, go to k4p.orgfor details, looking under “Summer 2020 virtual edition”, for these special opportunities to make new friends and deepen skills to build peace. Some of the camps are only for youths in the United States; others are international.
Exploring Social Media and Social Justice
Lift Ev’ry Voice: Freedom, Patriotism and Democracy
Life, Animated: Evaluating Meaning and Finding Connection
Protest Art and other Small Crimes
Uncomfortable : Race, Racism and Privilege
All Power to the People
Facilitation 101–Building Trust and Supporting Dialog
A Virtual Interfaith Road Trip
~~~~~~~~~~
DISMAS HOUSE – Every third Tuesday of the month, our community, Williston Federated Church, has the to plan, prepare and deliver the evening meal to Dismas House in Burlington.
Tuesday, June 16th, the 3rd Tuesday of June, will be the next date for volunteer cooks to participate in this meaningful opportunity.
Please call or email Peet Grobler for details regarding this event:
(802) 881-9007; peetgrobler@aol.com.
Thank you for considering,
Your Missions and Social Concerns Committee, Chairperson, Carol Wyatt.
~~~~~~~~~~
Thursday morning prayer (note change in time!): Thursday mornings at 9am there will be a zoom gathering for silent prayer and Bible discussion. Please check the meeting time every week the time may be temporary. The session begins with a brief reading and then 20 minutes of silence. A picture and participants will appear on the screen. After 20 minutes a bell will ring 3 times. Then the Bible passage of the day will be read three times. Participants will talk of the part of the passage that touched them or had questions or special meaning. The gathering will end at about 10am with the Lord’s Prayer also known as the Our Father. The code is 395 928 9957.
Questions call Donna Fellinger 802 355 1700.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Catering By Dale Foodtruck – Catering By Dale Foodtruck – Beginning Monday, June 15th, and running throughout the summer, Catering by Dale will be parked in the church lot adjacent to the recreation path from 4-5 pm every Monday. Simply pre order and pay for your meal on their website (http://cateringbydale.com) by noon Monday for contact free pickup that evening. If you have questions contact Carol Bouchard.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Need for Masks – If you are someone making masks the Williston Food Shelf could use some for our customers. Any size and shape is fine, just please make sure they’re lined. Thank you so much, Sally Metro!
~~~~~~~~~
Your Church Needs You – The Nominating Committee has begun the process of inviting folks to serve on one of the various church committees for the 2020-2021 fiscal year which begins July 1st. Now, more than ever, I think we are reminded that our church community plays a vital role in our lives and our response to the needs of our community and the wider world. We are asking that you prayerfully consider where God is calling you to serve. Most committees meet monthly and many take a break in the summer. Terms can be from 1-3 years. Committees include: Official Board, Trustees, Pastor Staff Relations, Finance, Education, Membership, Music & Worship, Missions & Social Concerns, Youth Ministry, Nominating and Parsonage. Two other opportunities are Auditor & Recording Secretary. If you have questions, please speak to a member of the Nominating Committee: Rebecca Dubois, Donna Goodheart, Carol Bouchard or Pastor Paul. Stay safe!
Bulletin for 5/10 – Mother’s day
Welcome To All Who Worship Here!
Sunday – May 10, 2020 ~ 9:30 A.M.
Happy Mother’s Day!
GREETING
CALL TO WORSHIP Ashley Dubois, Lay Leader
One: God is our midst, forming us to be God’s own people.
All: Though the way may be difficult, God will be with us.
One: We need not fear.
All: In the Lord we will take our refuge, for God is our strength.
One: Come to the Lord who will surround you with God’s own righteousness.
All: Lord, open our hearts and our spirits so that we may faithfully follow you. Amen.
PRELUDE Carol Schein
LIGHTING THE PEACE CANDLE
SHARING THE PEACE OF CHRIST
One: Peace be with you
All: Also with you
PRAYER FOR THE DAY (inspired by Psalm 8)
One: O Lord, our Lord,
All: How majestic is your name in all the earth.
One: We pray this day that we may come to a clearer understanding
All: that you have more interest in our character than in our comfort.
One: Where we have need of correction,
All: speak plainly to us and grant us the courage to make the changes you would bring in our lives.
One: May the love we express for you on this Sunday morning
All: continue throughout the coming week.
One: Strengthen this congregation, we pray,
All: in order that we may become more effective in our ministry, in our service, and in our witness to the community.
One: In the name of the risen Christ,
All: Amen.
ANTHEM “Down to the River to Pray” by Sheldon Curry
(a recording from the benefit concert performed by our Senior Choir – May 5, 2018)
TIME WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES
SCRIPTURE Acts 7:55-60 Lizzy Pope
But filled with the Holy Spirit, he gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!” But they covered their ears, and with a loud shout all rushed together against him. Then they dragged him out of the city and began to stone him; and the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul. While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he died.
PRAYER OF ILLUMINATION
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, our strength and our redeemer. Amen.
SERMON “Courage” Pastor Paul Eyer
HYMN “ Be Still My Soul” hymnal #534
(led remotely by Martin and Donna Sue Hain)
(copyright license CCLI #176957 and #20480319)
CELEBRATIONS AND CONCERNS/ PRAYER REQUESTS
Your prayer requests can be sent through Williston Federated Church Facebook page at Facebook.com/WillistonFederatedChurch to send that request via email WillistonFederatedYouth@gmail.com.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Pastor: Lord of Life and Love,
Congregation: Hear our prayer.
SILENT MEDITATION
THE LORD’S PRAYER (unison)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
OFFERING
(mail in your offering or get started with ouronline giving it’s easy!If you’re interested in setting up automatic withdrawals to make your gifts, please contact Matt Bliss who can invite you to set up an account with our online church membership software called Realm. When logged in, select the “Giving” menu on the left hand side and the “+ Give” button on the next screen. Then, enter your giving details and payment information to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. Select one of the pledge accounts (e.g. Pledge Jul xxxx to Jun xxxx). Frequency should be set to monthly on the 15th. You can follow the same process to make one time contributions too. If you have any questions, contact Matt Bliss at blisswm@comcast.net. Thank you for your generosity!)
OFFERTORY Carol Schein
*Presentation of Gifts:
PRAYER OF DEDICATION (unison)
Receive
these gifts this morning, O God, author of every good gift.
Out of
the bounty of our hearts, we respond with faithful generosity and
love.
May these gifts become blessings for others as they have
been blessing for us. Amen.
THE LIFE AND MISSION OF THE CHURCH (visit us thru ZOOM)
–“virtual” coffee hour/fellowship time via Zoom following worship
today
–Nominating Committee meeting via Zoom on Tuesday, May 12 – 5:00 p.m.
–Official Board meeting via Zoom on Tuesday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m.
–congregation-wide “check-in” on Thursday, May 14 at 7:00 p.m. (8:00 p.m. for younger adults)
–online Sunday worship services via Facebook on Sunday, May 17, at 9:30
a.m., featuring video worship leadership from United Church of Christ
conference ministers
CLOSING HYMN “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry” Songbook #127
(led remotely by Martin and Donna Sue Hain)
BENEDICTION/BLESSING
Liturgical resources: The Call to Worship and Prayer for the Day, and Prayer of Dedication are adapted from a liturgy found in the Abingdon Worship Annual edited by Mary J. Scifres and B.J. Beu, Copyright © Abingdon Press. The Prayer of Dedication is adapted from a liturgy by John A Brewer, “Worship Elements: May 10, 2020” found at https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/4962/worship-elements-may-10-2020 .
This Week and Beyond at WFC
In addition to prayers offered during our worship services, prayer requests may still be sent to Pastor Paul via email at pastoreyer.gmail.com. These prayers will then be lifted in prayer by the pastor throughout the week. (If you would like to submit prayer requests to be shared during our online worship service, please send those requests to WillistonFederatedYouth@gmail.com or post them as chat comments during our video live-stream of our worship service on Facebook Live on Sunday.)
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Faithfulness in Difficult Times— Your Financial Support of Our Church
We hold in our prayers all those, in our community and throughout the world, affected by COVID-19. And we pray for recovery and eventually a vaccine. While our daily thoughts and actions focus on our families, our health, our work and our neighbors, let us also remember that we are part of a faith community. Our church is such a force for good, as demonstrated in so many ways.
In recent weeks, we maintained our faithfulness as we worshipped and fellowshipped together online, using live stream video (via Facebook) and videoconferencing (via Zoom). The mission of Williston Federated Church continues to be lived out, albeit in different ways. And the church needs to continue to meet its expenses— for staff, utilities, and essential services. Please continue your financial support of Williston Federated Church. If you have pledged for this year, are you up-to-date? If you give through the offering weekly, but cannot come to church, please continue your giving.
Delivering our gifts as part of the worship service is an important part of our liturgy. But now please consider mailing your support to the church office. Even better, consider making your gifts electronically through your checking account.
If you’re interested in setting up automatic online withdrawals, please contact Matt Bliss who can invite you to set up an account with our online church membership software called Realm. When logged in, select the “Giving” menu on the left hand side and the “+ Give” button on the next screen. Then, enter your giving details and payment information to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. Select one of the pledge accounts (e.g. Pledge Jul xxxx to Jun xxxx). Frequency should be set to monthly on the 15th. You can follow the same process to make one time contributions too. If you have any questions, contact Matt Bliss at blisswm@comcast.net. Or you can complete a hard-copy registration form (posted on the church Facebook page on March 15) and mail it to the church c/o Matt Bliss.
Our prayers, individually and collectively, are critical at this time. So are our actions. Our financial support of the church will ensure our ability to serve as a beacon of light in dark times.
Thank you for your gifts of time, talent and treasure,
Your Finance Committee
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thursday morning prayer:
Note change in time. Thursday mornings at 9am there will be a zoom gathering for silent prayer and Bible discussion. Please check the meeting time every week the time may be temporary. The session begins with a brief reading and then 20 minutes of silence. A picture and participants will appear on the screen. After 20 minutes a bell will ring 3 times. Then the Bible passage of the day will be read three times. Participants will talk of the part of the passage that touched them or had questions or special meaning. The gathering will end at about 10am with the Lord’s Prayer also known as the Our Father. The code is 395 928 9957.
Questions call Donna Fellinger 802 355 1700.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
From the Finance Committee
Good News in Challenging Times!
Williston Federated Church has received financial support from the U.S. Small Business Administration via the Paycheck Protection Program. The PPP is part of the CARES Act to support our economy during the coronavirus pandemic, and is designed to help small businesses and nonprofits (including churches) that are facing financial challenges. While the program is structured as a loan, part or all of the loan is forgivable provided certain requirements are met. The funds will be used for payroll and for some utilities costs between now and the end of the fiscal year on June 30.
The application for this funding was approved by the Official Board prior to submission of the application, and reconfirmed by the Official Board at its regular meeting on April 14.
Due to the pandemic, the annual Stewardship Campaign, scheduled to begin on Palm Sunday, has been delayed, as has the development of an operating budget for 2020-21. The Finance Committee is working with the Official Board and Pastor Paul to consider best approaches to ensuring the financial stability and integrity of the church moving forward. The faithfulness of the members of the congregation in continuing to support the church financially, to the best of their ability, in these difficult times, is essential. The federal relief is most welcome, but is temporary, as all funds must be spent within eight weeks of receipt.
The meaningful ministry of our church is more important now than ever. And your financial support is what keeps this vital ministry moving forward.
If you have questions about the status of your financial commitment to the church, please contact our Financial Secretary, Barb Bristol (fbbristol@gmail.com). Pledge payments and additional donations to the church may be made by check (mailed to the church at 44 N. Williston Rd.) or online via Realm. To ensure a successful close of the fiscal year, we ask that all those who are able fulfill their pledges during the months of May and June. Thank you!
The doors of the building are temporarily closed, but the church is open and running, and requires our continuing financial support to serve our congregation, our neighbors, and the wider world. Together, we will overcome this crisis as we carry forward the work of Christ in the world.
Your Finance Committee,
Barb Bristol
Pastor Paul Eyer
Donna Goodheart
Donna Sue Hain
Mike Moran
Amy Vaughan
Bruce Wyatt
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Here is information about the “Wednesday Wellness” program offered by the Vermont Chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Thanks!
An important and meaningful series of FREE online programs offered by the Vermont Chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness takes place each Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. See the details below:
Join NAMI Vermont for Wellness Wednesdays!
The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Vermont (NAMI Vermont) invites you to participate in their new Wellness Wednesday series! This weekly virtual event will highlight inspirational messages of hope, bring awareness to mental illness, and provide information and resources to our community. These events are free of charge and open to the public.
For more information about this and other upcoming webinars, including the link to Wednesday’s video presentation, visit https://namivt.org/education/in-our-own-voice/. Or contact us at program@namivt.org. #NAMIWellnessWednesdays
Audience: Any community member.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE THIS EVENT!!!!
~~~~~~~~~~
Your Church Needs You – The Nominating Committee has begun the process of inviting folks to serve on one of the various church committees for the 2020-2021 fiscal year which begins July 1st. Now, more than ever, I think we are reminded that our church community plays a vital role in our lives and our response to the needs of our community and the wider world. We are asking that you prayerfully consider where God is calling you to serve. Most committees meet monthly and many take a break in the summer. Terms can be from 1-3 years. Committees include: Official Board, Trustees, Pastor Staff Relations, Finance, Education, Membership, Music & Worship, Missions & Social Concerns, Youth Ministry, Nominating and Parsonage. Two other opportunities are Auditor & Recording Secretary. If you have questions, please speak to a member of the Nominating Committee: Rebecca Dubois, Donna Goodheart, Carol Bouchard or Pastor Paul. Stay safe!
~~~~~~~~
INVITATION TO THE WILLISTON FEDERATED CHURCH LABYRINTH
As you look for ways to be physically and spiritually renewed while maintaining appropriate “social distancing,” the labyrinth at the church is an option you might want to consider. Members of the Williston Federated Church have constructed an outdoor labyrinth for the use of friends and community people who may be looking for an opportunity for outdoor meditation or prayer.
The labyrinth walk is outlined by bricks and the walking is done on the grass
path between the bricks. All are invited to take a few minutes to walk the labyrinth at anytime.
This is a ‘seven circuit’ labyrinth. The centuries old practice involves walking
the path to the center, sitting for a while and then following the path back to the beginning.
May your socially-distant spiritual reflections on the labyrinth be a source of inspiration at this time.
Your Financial Support of Our Church
We hold in our prayers all those, in our community and throughout the world, affected by COVID-19. And we pray for recovery and eventually a vaccine. While our daily thoughts and actions focus on our families, our health, our work and our neighbors, let us also remember that we are part of a faith community. Our church is such a force for good, as demonstrated in so many ways.
In recent weeks, we maintained our faithfulness as we worshipped and fellowshipped together online, using live stream video (via Facebook) and videoconferencing (via Zoom). The mission of Williston Federated Church continues to be lived out, albeit in different ways. And the church needs to continue to meet its expenses— for staff, utilities, and essential services. Please continue your financial support of Williston Federated Church. If you have pledged for this year, are you up-to-date? If you give through the offering weekly, but cannot come to church, please continue your giving.
Delivering our gifts as part of the worship service is an important part of our liturgy. But now please consider mailing your support to the church office. Even better, consider making your gifts electronically through your checking account.
If you’re interested in setting up automatic online withdrawals, please contact Matt Bliss who can invite you to set up an account with our online church membership software called Realm. When logged in, select the “Giving” menu on the left hand side and the “+ Give” button on the next screen. Then, enter your giving details and payment information to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. Select one of the pledge accounts (e.g. Pledge Jul xxxx to Jun xxxx). Frequency should be set to monthly on the 15th. You can follow the same process to make one time contributions too. If you have any questions, contact Matt Bliss at blisswm@comcast.net. Or you can complete a hard-copy registration form (posted on the church Facebook page on March 15) and mail it to the church c/o Matt Bliss.
Our prayers, individually and collectively, are critical at this time. So are our actions. Our financial support of the church will ensure our ability to serve as a beacon of light in dark times.
Thank you for your gifts of time, talent and treasure,
Your Finance Committee
Sunday School material
August 9th
Hello Super Sunday School Parents,
Grace and peace to you!
Our children’s Sunday School lesson this week explores the sixth chapter of 2 Samuel, a time in King David’s life when he became so excited that he danced before God.
The chapter centers around the movement of the sacred chest of God. Sometimes referred to as the Ark of the Covenant, the chest contained the stone tablets given to Moses on Mt. Sinai, and the Israelites viewed it as a symbol of God’s presence. David’s goal was to relocate the chest, which was being kept at the house of a man named Abinadab, to Jerusalem. So, after arriving at Abinadab’s, David and his men put the Lord’s chest on a cart and happily began their return.
There is more to the story, however, and to put it lightly – it’s not pretty. In 2 Samuel 6:6, Uzzah reached out to stabilize the chest when the oxen stumbled. As a result, God became angry and killed Uzzah. To be honest, I find this part troubling, and, for me, these verses are very difficult to understand, much less to explain to Henri.
If you do end up printing out the Sunday school activities (or even watching this short 3-minute video), you’ll notice that the curriculum writers focus on the way that David rejoiced once the chest finally reached Jerusalem. Yes, even though he had just experienced a deeply agonizing encounter, David praised God. In fact, David danced with all his might.
As parents, we’ve experienced (and are still experiencing now) so much that is hard to explain to ourselves – much less to explain to our children. There are only a few more weeks left of summer before the start of the strangest year of school we’ve ever encountered. And this might sound strange to some, but to me, it feels like this is a pretty good time to take a page out of David’s playbook and dance.
I find that even in these times – perhaps especially in these times – I am buoyed up when I praise God for the little things in life.
But dancing, you say? Sure, I’m not particularly good at dancing. I’ll definitely admit that! For me, the dancing I refer to is spending time with Henri doing fun things and talking about all of the wonderful blessings God has given us. For example, we love walking the creek in Jericho, watching sunsets at Oakledge Park, and enjoying our neighborhood pool on a sunny day. Last week, we made a day trip to Quechee and had a blast at VINS. On our walk through the canopy of the VT forest (masks and all), we were both in awe of God’s abundance. The woods were teeming with life and I found there was so much to praise God for in those moments as we walked together.
This is the kind of dancing I’m talking about. It’s the kind of dancing that helps you float above the dizzying, topsy-turvy world we’re living in. The kind that sweeps you away and brings you closer to God.
And so, my prayer for us all this week is that we might find ways to dance, for God is worthy of celebration! May we all feel God’s presence in the day-to-day and rejoice in what is.
I hope you enjoy sharing the attached family devotional and activities with your kiddos! Take care during the week ahead. With God’s love, we’ve got this!
With Deep Blessings,
Jenny Rousseau
P.S.: Just in case my hyperlink doesn’t work, here’s the link to that video I mentioned – https://my.amplifymedia.com/
Bulletin for 4/5 – Palm Sunday
Williston Federated Church
United Methodist Church and United Church of Christ – Federated 1899
An Open and Affirming, Reconciling Congregation
Mission Statement
Our church is a community which seeks, welcomes and gathers people to share the Gospel of God’s love, enables people to find fullness of life through Jesus Christ, goes into the world to live lovingly and justly as servants of Christ, and responds actively to human need.
Welcome To All Who Worship Here!
Palm Sunday – April 5, 2020 ~ 9:30 A.M.
GREETING
CALL TO WORSHIP (adapted from Psalm 118) Ashley Dubois, Lay Leader, Williston Federated Church
One: Give thanks! God’s love is constant and devoted to us.
All God’s hope is unfailing in caring for us: through health care workers and researchers; through first-responders and others who help in time of crisis; through teachers offering online lessons, and therapists available around the clock.
One: Give thanks, O give thanks! God is open to all.
All: God hears the cries of those who are forgotten: those who sleep rough in emptied streets; those who are most vulnerable around us; those who have no family to care for them.
One: Give thanks, O give thanks, people of God! God comes to bring us new life.
All: God takes the stone that we have tossed aside and God uses that stone to build the foundation of salvation.
One: This is the day that the LORD has made;
All: Let us rejoice and be glad in it!
PRELUDE Carol Schein
LIGHTING THE PEACE CANDLE
SHARING THE PEACE OF CHRIST
One: Peace be with you
All: Also with you
(copyright permission: OneLicense.net #733435-A and CCLI # 176957)
PRAYER OF THE DAY
One: When we are so weary we cannot seem to put one foot in front of the other,
All: you take us by the hand, O God of Steadfast Love, so we can join you on a morning walk to hear the songbirds.
One: Even when our fears and frustrations overflow,
All: you teach us how to listen to the hearts which seem to be ignored by everyone, everywhere.
One: When we long to run away from all the worries and uncertainty, O God of Peace,
All: You model for us how to be willing to care for those who suffer. In these moments—and especially in this moment—we turn to you, O God. Amen.
ANTHEM “Rejoice, the King is Coming” by Jon Paige
(performed by Martin and Donna Sue Hain)
TIME WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES
SCRIPTURE Matthew 21:1-11
Matthew 21;1-11 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem
When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, just say this, ‘The Lord needs them.’ And he will send them immediately” This took place to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophet, saying,
“Tell the daughter of Zion, Look, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting,
“Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, “Who is this?” The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”
PRAYER OF ILLUMINATION (Psalm 19:14)
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, our strength and our redeemer. Amen.
SERMON “Spread” Pastor Paul Eyer
CELEBRATIONS AND CONCERNS/ PRAYER REQUESTS
Prayer requests can be posted as chat/comments to the video livestream throughWilliston Federated Church Facebook page at Facebook.com/WillistonFederatedChurch or you may send those requests via email to WillistonFederatedYouth@gmail.com. Please remember that if you post your prayer request on Facebook, it can be visible to anyone who visits our church’s Facebook page. And prayer requests shared verbally during our livestream video worship service can be heard by anyone who watches the video of this worship service. If you wish to send confidential prayer requests, address those requests to Pastor Paul at pastoreyer@gmail.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Pastor: Lord of Life and Love,
Congregation: Hear our prayer.
SILENT MEDITATION
THE LORD’S PRAYER (unison)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
OFFERING
Mail in your offering or get started with ouronline giving. It’s easy!If you’re interested in setting up automatic withdrawals to make your gifts, please contact Matt Bliss who can invite you to set up an account with our online church membership software called Realm. When logged in, select the “Giving” menu on the left hand side and the “+ Give” button on the next screen. Then, enter your giving details and payment information to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. Select one of the pledge accounts (e.g. Pledge Jul xxxx to Jun xxxx). Frequency should be set to monthly on the 15th. You can follow the same process to make one time contributions too. If you have any questions, contact Matt Bliss at blisswm@comcast.net. Thank you for your generosity!)
OFFERTORY
*Presentation of Gifts:
We
give thee but thine own, What e’er the gift may be:
All that we have is thine alone, A trust, O Lord, from thee.
PRAYER OF DEDICATION (unison)
O God, may our gifts bring hope and healing, peace and plenty, in your name and in your love. Amen.
THE LIFE AND MISSION OF THE CHURCH
—virtual” coffee hour/fellowship time via Zoom following worship today
–online Maundy Thursday worship service via Facebook Live on Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m.
–online Good Friday worship service via Facebook Live on Friday, April 10 at 7:00 p.m.
–online Easter Sunday worship services via Facebook on Sunday, April 12:
at 6:30 a.m., Son-rise Easter Service led by Williston Federated Youth
at 9:30 a.m., Easter Sunday service led by Pastor Paul
CLOSING HYMN “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” UMC hymnal #278
(led remotely by Martin and Donna Sue Hain)
(copyright permission: OneLicense.net #733435-A and CCLI # 176957)
BENEDICTION
Liturgical resources: The Call to Worship and the Prayer of the Day are adapted from “Liturgy of the Palms for these days (April 2020), by Thom Shuman, found at http://lectionaryliturgies.blogspot.com/, accessed on 3 April 2020. The Prayer of Dedication is adapted from “A Liturgy for worship in a time of pandemic (Lent 5-A)” by Thom Shuman, “ Lectionary Liturgies” found at http://lectionaryliturgies.blogspot.com/, accessed on 26 March 2020.
bulletin for 3/29
Williston Federated Church
United Methodist Church and United Church of Christ – Federated 1899
An Open and Affirming, Reconciling Congregation
Mission Statement
Our church is a community which seeks, welcomes and gathers people to share the Gospel of God’s love, enables people to find fullness of life through Jesus Christ, goes into the world to live lovingly and justly as servants of Christ, and responds actively to human need.
Welcome To All Who Worship Here!
Fifth Sunday of Lent – March 29, 2020 ~ 9:30 A.M.
GREETING
CALL TO WORSHIP Ashley Dubois, Lay Leader, Williston Federated Church
One: Gracious and Most Merciful God, we gather in our separate homes–distant physically, but spiritually together in this new way to worship you.
All: Lord, help free us from that deep aching need for a sense of normalcy and instead fill us with your Holy Spirit so that we might wake up and see You coming to us in new ways.
One: Great Physician, like your disciples long ago we cry out: if only you could have come sooner; if only we had been better prepared; if only we had known, this would not have happened.
All: Lord in your mercy, clear our minds from the need for a sense of control over things, so that we might remember in times such as this you are indeed with us in mysterious ways, still offering abundant life to all.
One: Healer of Nations, in the midst of despair and sadness, remind us of your greatness, so that we might focus our attention on your peace, on your teachings, and on your Glory.
All: Lord in your mercy, help us to let go of fears of the known and unknown, so that we might be unbound and rise again to be your light to a world in need. AMEN.
LIGHTING THE PEACE CANDLE
SHARING THE PEACE OF CHRIST
One: Peace be with you All: Also with you
PRAYER OF THE DAY (from Psalm 130)
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications! If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than those who watch for the morning. Hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is great power to redeem.
TIME WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES
SCRIPTURE John 11:1-45
John 11:1-45 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
The Death of Lazarus
11 Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 Mary was the one who anointed the Lord with perfume and wiped his feet with her hair; her brother Lazarus was ill. 3 So the sisters sent a message to Jesus,[a] “Lord, he whom you love is ill.” 4 But when Jesus heard it, he said, “This illness does not lead to death; rather it is for God’s glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” 5 Accordingly, though Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, 6 after having heard that Lazarus[b] was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was.
7 Then after this he said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.” 8 The disciples said to him, “Rabbi, the Jews were just now trying to stone you, and are you going there again?” 9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Those who walk during the day do not stumble, because they see the light of this world. 10 But those who walk at night stumble, because the light is not in them.” 11 After saying this, he told them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going there to awaken him.” 12 The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will be all right.” 13 Jesus, however, had been speaking about his death, but they thought that he was referring merely to sleep. 14 Then Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. 15 For your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” 16 Thomas, who was called the Twin,[c] said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”
Jesus the Resurrection and the Life
17 When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus[d] had already been in the tomb four days. 18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, some two miles[e] away, 19 and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them about their brother. 20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary stayed at home. 21 Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.” 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” 24 Martha said to him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.[f] Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah,[g] the Son of God, the one coming into the world.”
Jesus Weeps
28 When she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary, and told her privately, “The Teacher is here and is calling for you.” 29 And when she heard it, she got up quickly and went to him. 30 Now Jesus had not yet come to the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him. 31 The Jews who were with her in the house, consoling her, saw Mary get up quickly and go out. They followed her because they thought that she was going to the tomb to weep there. 32 When Mary came where Jesus was and saw him, she knelt at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. 34 He said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” 35 Jesus began to weep. 36 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”
Jesus Raises Lazarus to Life
38 Then Jesus, again greatly disturbed, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, already there is a stench because he has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” 41 So they took away the stone. And Jesus looked upward and said, “Father, I thank you for having heard me. 42 I knew that you always hear me, but I have said this for the sake of the crowd standing here, so that they may believe that you sent me.” 43 When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with strips of cloth, and his face wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.”
The Plot to Kill Jesus
45 Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what Jesus did, believed in him.
PRAYER OF ILLUMINATION
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, our strength and our redeemer. Amen.
SERMON “Bound” Pastor Paul Eyer
A PRAYER FOR HEALING
One: Jesus Christ, you traveled through towns and villages “curing every disease and illness.” At your command, the sick were made well. Come to our aid now, in the midst of the global spread of the coronavirus, that we may experience your healing love.
All: Heal those who are sick with the virus. May they regain their strength and health through quality medical care.
One: Heal us from our fear, which prevents nations from working together and neighbors from helping one another.
All: Heal us from our pride, which can make us claim invulnerability to a disease that knows no borders.
One: Jesus Christ, healer of all, stay by our side in this time of uncertainty and sorrow.
All: Be with those who have died from the virus. May they be at rest with you in your eternal peace.
One: Be with the families of those who are sick or have died. As they worry and grieve, defend them from illness and despair. May they know your peace…
All: And for all of us, in place of our anxiety, give us your peace. In the name of the Great Physician, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
CELEBRATIONS AND CONCERNS/ PRAYER REQUESTS
Your prayer requests can be sent through Williston Federated Church Facebook page at Facebook.com/WillistonFederatedChurch to send that request via email to WillistonFederatedYouth@gmail.com.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
Pastor: Lord of Life and Love,
Congregation: Hear our prayer.
SILENT MEDITATION
THE LORD’S PRAYER (unison)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
OFFERING
(mail in your offering or get started with our online giving it’s easy! If you’re interested in setting up automatic withdrawals to make your gifts, please contact Matt Bliss who can invite you to set up an account with our online church membership software called Realm. When logged in, select the “Giving” menu on the left hand side and the “+ Give” button on the next screen. Then, enter your giving details and payment information to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. Select one of the pledge accounts (e.g. Pledge Jul xxxx to Jun xxxx). Frequency should be set to monthly on the 15th. You can follow the same process to make one time contributions too. If you have any questions, contact Matt Bliss at blisswm@comcast.net. Thank you for your generosity!)
OFFERTORY
“Leaning In: A Prayer of Intention” by Christopher Grundy
(pre-recorded music shared with permission © 2018 Christopher Grundy, all publishing rights reserved. Permission given to congregations to play this recording during worship or education programs, and to stream online.)
*Presentation of Gifts:
We give thee but thine own, What e’er the gift may be:
All that we have is thine alone, A trust, O Lord, from thee.
PRAYER OF DEDICATION
O God, may our gifts bring hope and healing, peace and plenty, in your name and in your love. Amen.
THE LIFE AND MISSION OF THE CHURCH (visit us thru ZOOM)
–“virtual” coffee hour/fellowship time via Zoom following worship today
— remote meeting of Music and Worship Committee via Zoom on Wednesday, April 1 at 5:30 p.m.
— congregation-wide check-in via Zoom on Thursday, April 2 at 7:00 p.m.
CLOSING HYMN “A Mighty Fortress is Our God”
(led remotely by Martin and Donna Sue Hain)
BENEDICTION
Liturgical resources: The Prayer for Healing is adapted from “A Coronavirus Prayer” by Kerry Weber, America: The Jesuit Review, March 30, 2020 issue, found at https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2020/03/02/coronavirus-prayer?fbclid=IwAR2X3JutwA-U8xeOfrC38ihieWH6m-z5jv7SwG-0G0tJW-ITAZFF9Zcpf4E, accessed on 20 March 2020. “Leaning In: A Prayer of Intention” by Christopher Grundy shared with permission © 2018 Christopher Grundy, all publishing rights reserved. Permission given to congregations to play this recording during worship or education programs, and to stream online. The Prayer of Dedication is adapted from “A Liturgy for worship in a time of pandemic (Lent 5-A)” by Thom Shuman, “ Lectionary Liturgies” found at http://lectionaryliturgies.blogspot.com/, accessed on 26 March 2020.
3/15 worship service
Sermon ~ “Now I See”, Pastor Paul Eyer
Anthem ~ “Footsteps”
Also, this service is available via live video stream on Facebook. Visit the Williston Federated Church Facebook page at Facebook.com/WillistonFederatedChurch to watch this online worship experience.
3/8/20 worship service
Sermon ~ “Rebirth”, Pastor Paul Eyer
Anthem ~ “Seek Ye First”
week of 4/19/20
This Week and Beyond at WFC
Prayers
In addition to prayers offered during our worship services, prayer requests may still be sent to Pastor Paul via email at pastoreyer.gmail.com. These prayers will then be lifted in prayer by the pastor throughout the week. (If you would like to submit prayer requests to be shared during our online worship service, please send those requests to WillistonFederatedYouth@gmail.com or post them as chat comments during our video live-stream of our worship service on Facebook Live on Sunday.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Good News in Challenging Times!
Williston Federated Church has received financial support from the U.S. government via the Paycheck Protection Program, part of the CARES Act to support our economy during the coronavirus pandemic. While the program is structured as a loan, the loan is forgivable provided we meet certain requirements, which we are confident we can do. The funds will be used for payroll and for utilities costs. More information will be available as further details are known, but this loan/grant will greatly assist the church as we meet our expenses through the end of the fiscal year on June 30.
The application for this funding was approved by the Official Board prior to submission of the application, and reconfirmed by the Official Board at its regular meeting on April 14.
Due to the pandemic, the annual Stewardship Campaign, scheduled to begin on Palm Sunday, has been delayed, as has the development of an operating budget for 2020-21. The Finance Committee is working with the Official Board and Pastor Paul to consider best approaches to ensuring the financial stability and integrity of the church moving forward. The faithfulness of the members of the congregation in continuing to support the church financially, to the best of their ability, in these difficult times, is essential. The federal relief is most welcome, but is temporary, as all funds must be spent within eight weeks.
The doors of the building are temporarily closed, but the church is open and running, and requires our continuing financial support to serve our congregation, our neighbors, and the wider world. Together, we will overcome this crisis. Thank you.
Bruce Wyatt
Chair, Finance Committee
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Looking Inward During Lent During Lent (continuing through Holy Week in April) you are invited to spend time in prayerful reflection, contemplation or meditation. Other Lenten practices include fasting, self-examination, confronting our sins, repentance and alms giving. Prayer and study suggestions are available in the Gallery to help get started or to add meaning to this quiet time. The sanctuary is always open weekdays from 7:30am to 5:30pm.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
HAND SANITIZERS
If anyone needs some hand sanitizer we have small, 4 oz. bottles for you. We’ve made up these small bottles from a stock pile supply that the Membership Committee has on hand. The bottles were prepared with sterile technique and can be delivered to you. Please let Melissa Delisle know if you need some.
Thursday morning prayer:
Thursday mornings at 8am there will be a zoom gathering for silent prayer and Bible discussion. The session begins with a brief reading and then 20 minutes of silence. A picture and participants will appear on the screen. After 20 minutes a bell will ring 3 times. Then the Bible passage of the day will be read three times. Participants will talk of the part of the passage that touched them or had questions or special meaning. The gathering will end at about 9am with the Lord’s Prayer also known as the Our Father. The code is 395 928 9957.
Questions call Donna Fellinger 802 355 1700.
INVITATION TO THE WILLISTON FEDERATED CHURCH LABYRINTH
As you look for ways to be physically and spiritually renewed while maintaining appropriate “social distancing,” the labyrinth at the church is an option you might want to consider. Members of the Williston Federated Church have constructed an outdoor labyrinth for the use of friends and community people who may be looking for an opportunity for outdoor meditation or prayer.
The labyrinth walk is outlined by bricks and the walking is done on the grass
path between the bricks. All are invited to take a few minutes to walk the labyrinth at anytime.
This is a ‘seven circuit’ labyrinth. The centuries old practice involves walking
the path to the center, sitting for a while and then following the path back to the beginning.
May your socially-distant spiritual reflections on the labyrinth be a source of inspiration at this time.
Faithfulness in Difficult Times— Your Financial Support of Our Church
We hold in our prayers all those, in our community and throughout the world, affected by COVID-19. And we pray for recovery and eventually a vaccine. While our daily thoughts and actions focus on our families, our health, our work and our neighbors, let us also remember that we are part of a faith community. Our church is such a force for good, as demonstrated in so many ways.
In recent weeks, we maintained our faithfulness as we worshipped and fellowshipped together online, using live stream video (via Facebook) and videoconferencing (via Zoom). The mission of Williston Federated Church continues to be lived out, albeit in different ways. And the church needs to continue to meet its expenses— for staff, utilities, and essential services. Please continue your financial support of Williston Federated Church. If you have pledged for this year, are you up-to-date? If you give through the offering weekly, but cannot come to church, please continue your giving.
Delivering our gifts as part of the worship service is an important part of our liturgy. But now please consider mailing your support to the church office. Even better, consider making your gifts electronically through your checking account.
If you’re interested in setting up automatic online withdrawals, please contact Matt Bliss who can invite you to set up an account with our online church membership software called Realm. When logged in, select the “Giving” menu on the left hand side and the “+ Give” button on the next screen. Then, enter your giving details and payment information to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. Select one of the pledge accounts (e.g. Pledge Jul xxxx to Jun xxxx). Frequency should be set to monthly on the 15th. You can follow the same process to make one time contributions too. If you have any questions, contact Matt Bliss at blisswm@comcast.net. Or you can complete a hard-copy registration form (posted on the church Facebook page on March 15) and mail it to the church c/o Matt Bliss.
Our prayers, individually and collectively, are critical at this time. So are our actions. Our financial support of the church will ensure our ability to serve as a beacon of light in dark times.
Thank you for your gifts of time, talent and treasure,
Your Finance Committee
Ruth Painter’s passing
Williston Federated Church grieves the passing of one of its saints, Ruth
Painter. Ruth made that final journey
from this life to the next on April 11, 2020 at the age of 92. Ruth’s impact on the life of this church will
continue for years to come. She was
described by Sue Leister as our “patron of peace” because of her faithful
dedication to that cause. If you wish
to send greetings to Ruth’s family, her daughter Audrey can be reached via the
following contact information: Audreycoty@gmail.com 802-256-4655 Audrey and Lee Coty
253
Falls Brook Rd., Stowe, VT 05672
This Week and Beyond at WFC 3/29/20
“Prayer requests may still be sent via email to pastoreyer.gmail.com. These prayers will then be gathered and lifted in prayer by the pastor throughout the week.” Also for prayers during this worship service, send that request via email to WillistonFederatedYouth@gmail.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Faithfulness in Difficult Times— Your Financial Support of Our Church
We hold in our prayers all those, in our community and throughout the world, affected by COVID-19. And we pray for recovery and eventually a vaccine. While our daily thoughts and actions focus on our families, our health, our work and our neighbors, let us also remember that we are part of a faith community. Our church is such a force for good, as demonstrated in so many ways.
In recent weeks, we maintained our faithfulness as we worshipped and fellowshipped together online, using live stream video (via Facebook) and videoconferencing (via Zoom). The mission of Williston Federated Church continues to be lived out, albeit in different ways. And the church needs to continue to meet its expenses— for staff, utilities, and essential services. Please continue your financial support of Williston Federated Church. If you have pledged for this year, are you up-to-date? If you give through the offering weekly, but cannot come to church, please continue your giving.
Delivering our gifts as part of the worship service is an important part of our liturgy. But now please consider mailing your support to the church office. Even better, consider making your gifts electronically through your checking account.
If you’re interested in setting up automatic online withdrawals, please contact Matt Bliss who can invite you to set up an account with our online church membership software called Realm. When logged in, select the “Giving” menu on the left hand side and the “+ Give” button on the next screen. Then, enter your giving details and payment information to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. Select one of the pledge accounts (e.g. Pledge Jul xxxx to Jun xxxx). Frequency should be set to monthly on the 15th. You can follow the same process to make one time contributions too. If you have any questions, contact Matt Bliss at blisswm@comcast.net. Or you can complete a hard-copy registration form (posted on the church Facebook page on March 15) and mail it to the church c/o Matt Bliss.
Our prayers, individually and collectively, are critical at this time. So are our actions. Our financial support of the church will ensure our ability to serve as a beacon of light in dark times.
Thank you for your gifts of time, talent and treasure,
Your Finance Committee
~~~~~~~~~~~~
March Madness has been cancelled. Please stay tuned for our next 5th Sunday Mission Outreach Opportunity.
The Rummage Sale has tentatively been rescheduled for April 24-25. More information will be available closer to that date.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Heifer International
The Annual collection for Heifer International began Sunday March 1 and will continue until Sunday April 19. Donations have traditionally been placed in Heifer coin banks. These banks will be available when entering the sanctuary and in or near the Fellowship Hall. ‘Calendars’ describing the work of Heifer are also available with the banks.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Looking Inward During Lent During Lent (continuing through Holy Week in April) you are invited to spend time in prayerful reflection, contemplation or meditation. Other Lenten practices include fasting, self-examination, confronting our sins, repentance and alms giving. Prayer and study suggestions are available in the Gallery to help get started or to add meaning to this quiet time. The sanctuary is always open weekdays from 7:30am to 5:30pm.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scripture John 4:3-42 (Pg 94-95 New Testament pew Bible)
Anthem “Seek Ye First”
Greeter: Rick and Barb Bristol
Coffee: Ruth and Charlie Magill
Usher: Mike Moran and Ursula White
Scripture: Ginger Isham
Week of March 15, 2020
- Tuesday, March 17 ~ 6:00pm Vitality Group
- Wednesday, March 18 ~5:30pm Music and Worship; 6:00pm Pastor Staff
- Thursday, March 19 ~8:00am Centering Prayer; 5:30pm Soup and Scripture; 7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
- Friday, March 20~ 7:00am Men’s Bible Study
- Sunday, March 22~ 9:30am Worship
Name tag Reminder
Please remember to wear your name tag on Sunday morning. This is helpful not only for guests but for long time members as well. No, not everyone knows you by name. If you need a name tag, there is a sign up sheet on the bulletin board. Membership Committee is considering transitioning from our current pin back name tags to magnetic ones in the near future. This will alleviate some concerns about pins damaging clothing. Your thoughts & suggestions are welcome.
~~~~~~~~~~
Book Club and Pot Luck Night
Book Club will meet on Monday, March 23 in the Church Fellowship Hall. We will be discussing the book ’News Of The World’ by Paulette Jiles. Jane Stickney will hostess the April meeting at her hone at 32 Hickory Hill Rd on Thursday April 30. We will discuss ’ Born A Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood’ by Trevor Noah. Contact Lois Mason if you plan to attend the March meeting and Jane Stickney if you plan to attend the April meeting.
~~~~~~~~~~
Soup and Scripture!
Please join us for Adult education during Lent on Thursdays, (continuing through April 2) from 5:30 to 7:00pm. There will be a soup supper served on these evenings. The study, led by Pastor Paul, will focus on the Book of Acts and the Letters of Paul found in the New Testament. A primary resource for this study will be the Great Courses Video series featuring Professor Bart Ehrman.
~~~~~~~~~~
Dinner at Dismas House
Please consider offering dinner to the residents and staff at Dismas House, Burlington on March 17, 2020, for a six o’clock meal time. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board, entrance hallway. Questions can be directed to Peet Grobler (802)881-9007 or Carol Wyatt (802)876-7950. Thank you for considering this meaningful volunteer opportunity. Missions and Social Concerns Committee.
~~~~~~~~~~
Postponed until Further Notice …..
Women’s Breakfast March 14th & Bedding Drive with Guest Speakers from Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Calling all women. Please save the date for the Annual Women’s Breakfast March 14th 8:30 -10:30 AM in Fellowship Hall. Our guest speakers will be Bob Brosseau, Dan Parot & Mike Lemieux from the Chittenden County Chapter of Sleep In Heavenly Peace. A sign up sheet for planning purposes is on the bulletin board. We encourage you to bring a friend and come hear the inspiring story of three friends who had a vision and have made a huge difference in our community. As part of our women’s breakfast event, please consider teaming up with a friend to purchase new twin sheets, blankets, comforters or pillows. If you can’t attend the breakfast but would like to donate bedding, there will be a box on the table near the entrance to Fellowship Hall through March 14th. For more information speak to Carol Burbank or Carol Bouchard.
~~~~~~~~~~
Come Teach Sunday School
Share your spiritual gifts – Help transmit our faith to the next generation!
- At WFC, we want kids to feel welcome, valued, and secure when they come to church. We want them to learn about God’s love and how Christ’s teachings can help them be good little people! Teachers are needed to lead a lesson only seven times over the course of one year.
- Can you help?
- If your answer is YES – or even maybe – then please
- talk with Jenny Rousseau to find out more. Thank you!
~~~~~~~~~~
Looking Inward During Lent
During Lent (continuing through Holy Week in April) you are invited to spend time in the sanctuary for prayerful reflection, contemplation or meditation. Other Lenten practices include fasting, self-examination, confronting our sins, repentance and alms giving. Prayer and study suggestions are available in the Gallery to help get started or to add meaning to this quiet time. The sanctuary is always open weekdays from 7:30am to 5:30pm.
~~~~~~~~~~
We Welcome All
We, the Williston Federated Church, declare ourselves to be an Open and Affirming, Reconciling congregation. With God’s grace, we seek to be a congregation that includes all persons, embracing differences of sexual orientation, gender, marital status, age, mental and physical ability, as well as racial, ethnic, or social-economic background. We welcome all to share in the life and leadership, ministry, and fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities and blessings of participation in our congregation. (Open and Affirming/Reconciling statement adopted by the Williston Federated Church congregation in 2006.)
~~~~~~~~~~
Heifer International
The Annual collection for Heifer International began Sunday March 1 and will continue until Sunday April 19. Donations have traditionally been placed in Heifer coin banks. These banks will be available when entering the sanctuary and in or near the Fellowship Hall. ‘Calendars’ describing the work of Heifer are also available with the banks.
~~~~~~~~~~
A New Opportunity for Prayer
You are invited to participate in a newly-created prayer group that will meet on Tuesday, March 10 at 6:00 p.m. in the choir room. Please join us for this meaningful time of deepened spiritual connection.
~~~~~~~~~~
Photos Available
For your enjoyment, a photo album with photos of our 150th Anniversary Celebration was created. It is located on the table near the Fellowship Hall. Take a few minutes to take a peek. These professional photos were taken by Stephen Mease. If you would like to purchase prints of these photos, go to the following link …..
~~~~~~~~~~
March Madness/Fifth Sunday Mission, Ministry & More March 29th
Sign up on the bulletin board to participate in one or more mission opportunities on March 29th after a brief worship: preparing sandwiches for the homeless; volunteering at the Habitat Restore; participating in a prayer walk around the village; traveling tea party; making Easter cards for our card ministry; stocking shelves at the Williston Food Shelf and participating in a Sleep in Heavenly Peace Bunk Bed Build happening Saturday, March 28th. Sponsored by the Membership Committee.
~~~~~~~~~~
JUMP Personal Care and Household Cleaning Supply Drive
Imagine having to go without a toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo, or household cleaning supplies in order to afford food for your family. For many people in Chittenden County this is exactly the decision they confront on a monthly basis. But thanks to JUMP, the Joint Urban Ministry Project, these folks can obtain personal care and household items by simply stopping by the First Congregational Church in Burlington. The items most needed include: toothbrushes, deodorant, hand and body lotion, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, bar soap, dental floss, razors and shaving cream as well as all purpose cleaner, “Spic and Span” or Lysol, dish soap, and sponges. Collection boxes will be on the tables outside Fellowship Hall throughout the month. Thank you for helping our most vulnerable community members maintain dignity and stay healthy. From your Mission and Social Concerns Committee
3/1/20 worship service
Sermon and Vicki Trueman Farewell ~ Pastor Paul Eyer
Anthem ~ “Be Thou My Vision”