Newsletter

Pastor Melodie’s Message

“When your children ask in time to come,

‘What do those stones mean to you?’

then you shall tell them…”

Joshua 4:6

As we prepare for another fun-filled Vacation Bible School here at St. Andrew Church, these words of the Lord to Joshua came to mind. Of course, we are not crossing the river Jordan and establishing ourselves in the Promised Land. But as we ready ourselves for Vacation Bible School, we should not lose sight of the fact that we are helping to build something very precious: faith.

For many of the children who attend our VBS this is the only exposure they will have all year long to the Good News of Jesus Christ. For many this is their only chance to learn those Bible stories we all treasure from our childhoods. And just as importantly, it may be their only chance to be with adults who believe in Jesus Christ!

We cannot underestimate the importance of VBS in the lives of children – whether these children are those we see just once a year or those who are with us every Sunday. The VBS experience is a chance for us to help build and strengthen the foundation of beliefs that these children will need for the rest of their lives. It is an awesome and sacred responsibility in the midst of a fun-filled week of stories, play, and crafts.

It is also the only chance many of us will have throughout the church year to share what our faith means to us. Children need to see and hear and experience that our faith is not just based upon words found in some old book or stories about long-ago people. Children need to learn that our faith is more important to us as anything else in our lives.

So, here is your chance. Please find time during the week of June 14 - June 18 to impact the lives of our VBS students. There are countless ways you can help – some big and some small. But no matter what you do – even if you just come to join in the VBS Closing Worship on Sunday, June 21 – do not forget that you will be participating in something sacred and important – you will be helping to build a foundation of faith that can last for a lifetime.

I hope to see you here, sharing with the children what “those stones” of your faith mean to you!

In Christ’s service,

Pastor Melodie

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The Sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated on Sunday, June 7, during our 10:00 a.m. Worship Service. Please accept our Lord’s invitation to be present.

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Recognition of

Graduates

Graduation is quickly approaching for our young people. Come and celebrate with us here at St. Andrew on Sunday, June 14, with recognition during the 10:00 a.m. Worship Service for Eun Kim and a reception to follow in Fellowship Hall. Join us for a morning of fun and celebration as we wish Eun good luck on this new chapter of her life.

If you know of a church member or church friend who will be graduating, please call Marilyn at the Church Office (282-6466) as soon as possible, so that we may recognize their accomplishments with a “special” gift.

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“Discovery Canyon”

VBS 2009

Miss Cassie and Mr. Michael, as well as an entire team of volunteers, invite you to experience the fun at this year’s Vacation Bible School. Enter with an open mind, heart, and eyes, and explore and experience God’s Word.

Each evening we will meet a new friend and enjoy fun activities. Join us on Sunday evening, June 14, from 6:00-8:30 and each evening through Thursday, June 18, for fun activities, fellowship, and good food. And don’t forget to join us on Sunday, June 21, at 10:00 a.m. for the final program during the Worship Service.

Every gully, cavern, and waterfall will offer a new place to explore. See you there!!!

Note: Please fill out the registration form included in this newsletter and drop it off at the church or mail it to: St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 2700 W. Moore Road, Muncie, IN 47304.

In our prayers:
 

We express our sympathy to Barb & Steve Brodt on the death of Barb’s mother, Margaret Scanlon, on May 4. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

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Dear St. Andrew Members and Friends:

I am writing this with a full heart, but a heart that also aches for the presence of my father. This week has thrown me a curve ball that I did not expect for many years to come. It seems like this is a good time to sit down and work through my feelings by talking to my church friends and family. The past two days, although filled with immense grief, have once again given me a boost from God and from you.

This simple note is to thank you all for every thing you have done for Amy and me, the girls, and Mom and Ashley. I am so filled with joy that you are all in our lives. You have given us food, fellowship, a beautiful service, and a beautiful church building that is my home. St. Andrew is the light of my life, and dad was proud of our church and the friendship and love we have all received from this church for over 40 years.

I sat this morning at the service and listened to Janet Burkhart play the clarinet, and I was able to close my eyes and see the biggest events in my life pass before me. I could see my baptism, playing on the playground as a nursery school student, and the many Vacation Bible Schools, my wedding, Meredith’s baptism, the hugs and prayers that we received during Meredith’s surgery, and saying goodbye to my dad. How could this place and these people mean anymore to me. They can’t.

This afternoon my family was able to comfort each other and reacquaint while four very special ladies put on the most beautiful luncheon I had ever attended. I simply want to let everyone know how special these acts of kindness are to me and how special our church is.

It is my privilege to serve all of you, and I am going to do anything I can to make sure that my children’s children are passed the traditions and love that makes our church what it is. God has truly blessed this little plot of land with some of his greatest human beings.

Thank you so much for all you have done for me and for the comfort you have given me, not only now, but also throughout my life.

I love you all. May God continue to bless our church.

Love always,

Michael

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Twilight Study

A study on a movie about…vampires?

That’s right. As Christians we are called to be in a world filled to the brim with cultural phenomena, and if Twilight does not count as phenomena, nothing does. Based on the first book in a four-book series by Stephenie Meyer, Twilight delves into the forbidden love of two teenagers facing the threat of death and the possibility of eternal life, choosing the “right” way to live, all while listening to a myriad of warnings from others. (Thoughtful Christian materials)

Have you read the book? Have you seen the movie? Even if you haven’t, anyone who is interested (high school through adult) is welcome to attend the spring study with one session left. Focusing around the Twilight movie, Cassie will facilitate this study. She would welcome input in facilitating from any participant. Michael McClure will ensure childcare during the hour-long session.

Final Session: Sunday, June 7, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Feel free to attend, even if you’ve missed other sessions. Please, contact Michael or Cassie with questions or concerns (282-6466).

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Discovery Canyon Countdown Meeting

Calling ALL Volunteers!

We are hoping that you will consider helping with Vacation Bible School if you haven't already.  If you have...THANK YOU! On Sunday, May 24, from 5-6:00 p.m., we had our first VBS planning meeting.  Some of you have been working on your areas of specialty already, but many are waiting on materials and assignments.  Please, try to schedule a time with Michael & Cassie (if you cannot attend the meetings), so that we can be sure that we have you in a place that suits your talents.  Also, we'll want to brainstorm about your material needs.  We will have a mock schedule and a brief summary about this year's VBS!

On Sunday, June 7, from 5-6:00 p.m., we will have a follow-up meeting.  At that point, we will want to finalize plans and needs, as VBS is June 14-18 (6-8:30pm) with the Final Celebration on Sunday, June 21, at 10:00 a.m. during our Worship Service.

Please RSVP.  If you are unable to attend these meetings, please contact us to set up a separate appointment. Thanks!  Let's have a great summer VBS with Discovery Canyon!

With Joy!

Michael McClure & Cassie Bolander

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“Discovery Canyon” Wish List

It is once again time for Vacation Bible School; and as in years past, we are asking the congregation to help in donating items to be used throughout the week. This year’s wish list includes:

Recyclable Items:

Brown paper grocery bags (Marsh)

Clear plastic milk jugs

Old blue jeans

Empty paper towel rolls

Paper egg cartons

Purchased Donations:

Twine - craft feathers

Puffy and acrylic paints (all colors)

Felt (brown, orange, yellow, black, blue,

white)

Craft glue - wiggley eyes

White plastic light switch plates (single)

Decoupage - wax paper

Nuts and bolts and grommets

Red clay saucers

Crayola markers

Pipe cleaners - tooth picks

Any of these Items that can be donated would be greatly appreciated. Monetary donations will also be accepted. Please have all items in Michael and Cassie’s office by Monday, June 1.

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Special Thanks

Thank you to all who participated in Celebrate the Children Sunday on May 3. We had beautiful music thanks to the following talented musicians: Christy Reilly (organ, piano), Greg Kinat (cello), Janet Burkhart (clarinet), Eun Kim (violin), and James Ong (clarinet).

Our message from The Creation Song featured the talents of Melodie Wager, James Ong, Anna Groover, Faith Williams, Christopher Knight, Hannah Bolander and Cassie Bolander. Sweet prayers were shared by the Andrew’s Angels, led by Sue Jacquette. Special thanks go out to Adam Bolander and Art Hill for giving technical assistance throughout the morning.

Finally, we had an artistic display thanks to Erich, Chase, Chloe, and Abby. To all: “Job well done!”

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BIG Thank You

Dear St. Andrew Members and Friends:

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of you for your great support during my recent illness. The visits, phone calls, cards, food, and especially your prayers all helped on the pathway to healing. Currently, I am getting “at home” care from the Amedisys Home Health Services. Thanks again for your continued prayer support.

-- Your friend, Millie McGinnis

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Many Thanks

Thank you to the following persons who provided food and/or helped serve at the Mike McClure family funeral dinner: Margaret Bilger, Carla Elzey, Fran Constant, Charlotte Hetrick, Jean Haney, Pam Smith, Mary Lou Hall, Norma McKnight, Kitty Johnson, Janet Burkhart, and Tressie Paschal. Many, many thanks go to each of your for all your help.

-- Marta Flynn

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Andrew’s Angels

Preschool News

Well…the paint bottles are empty, the play dough is dry, and the name cards are peeling off the chairs – it must mean that preschool is over for the summer.

We have lots of memories – friends, fieldtrips, learning, games, parties, and graduation. Thanks to the families for making the memories possible.

Our graduation was very special, and we had many family members and guests to share the evening with us. Special thanks to Miss Kristin, Pastor Melodie, Miss Cassie, Mr. Michael, Fran Constant, and Janet Burkhart.

Best of luck to: Alyssa, Andrea, Camryn, Emily, Jaylynn, Macy, Olivia, Sophie, Carson, Hayden, Ian, Kaleb, Kevin, Lake, Lane, and Preston…as they move on. And…we welcome the Tuesday/Thursday boys and girls to the “Big Kid” Class!

We have openings in both classes for the 2009-2010 school year. For more information please call me (282-3236) or the Church Office (282-6466).

Sue Jacquette

Director/Teacher

Women’s

Study Group

Our Women’s Study Group will meet at the church on Wednesday, June 10, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. Fran Constant will lead the study, Lesson 9, from Jubilee! Luke Gospel for the Poor, entitled “The Mighty Are Brought Down…The Lord Is Lifted Up.” If you have any questions, please call Jean Haney (289-4938) or Martha Barb (289-0597). All women are welcome.

This is the group’s last meeting until next fall. So come and enjoy the lesson, the camaraderie, and lunch out with the group.

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Special Music

for Summer

Every summer the choir takes a well-deserved break from singing each Sunday. In their place we ask members and friends of St. Andrew to allow us all to enjoy their musical talents. Summer music will begin on Sunday, June 7, and will continue through Sunday, September 6. So, it’s time to tune up your instruments and play for the glory of the Lord.

There’s a sign-up sheet on the table in the narthex at church with each Sunday listed. Please choose a Sunday, write your name in the space provided, and let Marilyn at the Church Office (282-6466) know what you will be playing that day (no later than the Wednesday before your performance).

It’s that simple! The added bonus is that we all are able to enjoy your special talents. Thank you for volunteering.

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May Birthdays

5 - Jack Ihle

7 - Dian Constant

11 - Glenn Daugherty

- Faith Williams

21 - Dorothy Kelly

- Tressie Paschal

28 - You-Yuh (Jim) Kuo

30 - Kanda Kramer

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HAPPY

FATHER’S

DAY –

JUNE 21, 2009

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Plant of the Month

Yellow Flag Iris

(Iris pseudacorus Iridaceae)

The Yellow Flag Iris is a tall, usually 4-6 feet in height, long-blooming plant that is found in bogs, marshes, ponds, and along ditches. It is the only yellow iris in the United States and is native to Europe, the British Isles, and the Mediterranean region.

The yellow flag Iris has a fibrous root and spreads via wind and water. The root has been used over the years as a scent for linen closets and for blue and black dyes. The leaf fiber has been used for paper, nets, canvas, and cloth.

The flower has been used for yellow dye for many years. The seed has been used in the past as a substitute for coffee. Biblical scholars believe that that the Yellow Flag Iris is one of the plants referred to as “lilies by the rivers.”

Stop by our Biblical Garden on the west side of the church and check out the Yellow Flag Irises.

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Greeters

June 7: Sara & Steve Jarvis

June 14: Martha & Earl Barb

June 21: Dorothy & Gordon Johnson

June 28: Kim & Scott Knight

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Attendance
 

May 3: 111

May 10: 69

May 17: 75

May 24: 59

May 31: TBA
 

Please Note

The St. Andrew July Newsletter will be mailed during the week of July 6 due to vacations of some of the staff members.

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Pastor Melodie has been asked to officiate at the wedding for David’s niece. The wedding will be held in Greece in late June. Pastor Melodie will begin her vacation on Tuesday, June 16. She plans to return to the office on Monday, July 6. In case of an emergency please call the Church Office (282-6466).

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Coming Up in July

Fourth of July - Fun & Fellowship

St. Andrew members and friends will get together at the Minnetrista Cultural Center to listen to the band concert and enjoy the fireworks display. A few of our church members play in America’s Hometown Band, performing that evening.

You may bring a well-filled picnic basket, or just a cold drink, or just your lawn chair, and plan to sit with the group.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Hope to see you there!

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The Sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated on the second Sunday of July (the 12^th) instead of the first Sunday. Please accept our Lord’s invitation to be present.

Recipe of the Month

Sour Cream-Peach Coffee Cake

(submitted by Marilyn Weaver)
 

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Stir together Bisquick Mix, milk, 3 Tbls. sugar, and the melted butter in a medium bowl. Spread in ungreased square pan 9 x 9 x 2. Arrange peach slices on top. Mix 1/4 cup sugar and the cinnamon; sprinkle over peaches. Mix sour cream and egg and spread on top.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in cake comes out clean. Serve warm and top with whipped cream.

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Congratulations

We extend our congratulations to Wade and Christi Clark on the birth of their grandson, Gavin Lee, born on Friday, May 22. Gavin weighed 7 lbs. 2 oz. and was 21 inches long.

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Natural Highs

Things that make you so happy, you have a natural high:

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The St. Andrew Newsletter is published monthly for the members and friends of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), 2700 W. Moore Road, Muncie, IN 47304 – Telephone:  765-282-6466; FAX: 765-282-1677; WEB: http://standrewmuncie.org; E-mail: saintandrew@comcast.net.

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