October 2017 Volume 10, Issue 41

HONORING THE PAST * CELEBRATING THE PRES EN T * BUILDING THE FUTURE Associate Pastor Search Update It is with great pleasure and excitement that I am writing you to an- nounce that on Monday, September 18th, 2017 the Search Committee pre- sented to Consistory their selection for our next Associate Pastor. The Search Committee unanimously presented Kayli L. Freeman as their candidate and the Consistory approved and has called a special congregational meeting to vote on this recommendation.

We are providing several opportunities for you to meet Pastor Kayli. Friday, October 27 from 9am-11am – Open House in Memorial Hall Stop by for snacks and refreshments. Saturday, October 28th from 1-3pm – Open House in Memorial Hall Stop by for snacks and refreshments. Saturday, October 28th 3:30-5pm – Open House in Memorial Hall Youth and Young Adults, Stop by for pizza and refreshments. Sunday, October 29th 9:00am – 10:00am Coffee Hour in Memorial Hall Sunday, October 29th 10:30 Worship – Trial Sermon and Congregational Meeting and Vote (No 8am worship on this day.)

Immediately following the 10:30 worship service on Sunday, October 29th all members in good standing of Union UCC (confirmed, transferred, joined) who attend the service will be invited to vote either for or against this candidate. The Union UCC By-Laws require that in order for an individual to cast a vote, the member must be in at- tendance on this Sunday and additionally the Penn Northeast Conference requires that the member must hear the sermon in order to vote. Therefore we cannot allow write-in votes. Our Constitution requires that the candidate must receive at least 85% votes in favor of the votes cast in order to be named our next Associ- ate Pastor. The results of the vote will be announced at the service, after the votes are counted during the singing of a hymn. I would like to congratulate and thank the Search Committee on an outstanding and extremely thorough job. I think we all owe a debt of gratitude to Donna Christman, Aften Hamm, Ardith Kuhns, Sue Ondrey, Dave Fleming, Carrington Smith, Phil Wehr, Natalie Ondrey, Mollie Jarrett, Jason Klinger, Ben Anderson, Ashley Anderson, Teresa Dalrymple and Pastor Kris. These volunteers met one to three times a month since last January and did additional homework in between meetings. The committee is quite confident that they have presented the congregation with the best candi- date. Thank you for your prayers and support through this process.

Sincerely,

Brad Hackett Consistory President Kayli L. Freeman Biography Submitted by the Associate Pastor Search Committee: Donna Christman, Aften Hamm, Ardith Kuhns, Sue Ondrey, Dave Fleming, Carrington Smith, Phil Wehr, Natalie Ondrey, Mollie Jarrett, Jason Klinger, Ben Anderson, Ashley Anderson, Teresa Dalrymple and Pastor Kris

The Associate Pastor Search Committee presents our Candidate: Kayli L. Freeman Kayli was born and raised here in the Lehigh Valley. Growing up outside of Kutztown, she attended and graduated from Northwestern Lehigh in 2006. After high school, she attended Shippensburg University in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. She graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, concentrating in General Management, in 2010. Although she enjoyed her college years and the friends she made there, she Kayli L. Freeman, knew that there was something more for her. She began embracing and discerning Associate Pastor Candidate her call to ministry in her third year at Shippensburg, and knew that once she Photo Credit: Kevin Richter graduated from college she would venture on to seminary. In the fall of 2010, Kayli took the biggest leap of faith in her life and enrolled in the Master of Divinity program at Moravian Theological Seminary (MTS) in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Although it was hard work and long hours, she never felt more determined and supported by God in her entire life. In May of 2013, Kayli graduated from MTS with her Masters of Divinity Degree. Kayli was born, baptized, confirmed, and raised in the United Church of Christ. Growing up she faithfully attended Sunday School and worship. She spent a few years finding herself and trying to figure out what it meant to truly be a Christian and embrace all that God was/is calling her to be. When Kayli finally decided to jump into her call feet first, she found that God is calling her to reach out to as many people as possible, spreading the good news and showing love to all that she encounters. She truly believes in the UCC mantra, “No matter who you are, and where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.” Kayli believes that Christ’s love was not conditional, so neither should ours be. Since graduating from seminary Kayli has been supply preaching at local congregations, filling in to preach and lead worship as needed. Most recently she’s been supply preaching weekly at Bethel UCC in Slatington. She lives with her loving, supportive parents, Jeff and Kim, as well as her older broth- er, Zach, and their three outrageous rescue animals. (two dogs, one cat). She has been approved for ordination by the Penn Northeast Conference, pending a call.

The Search Committee says this about Kayli: Kayli’s faith is strong, enthusiastic and genuine. Her spirit and personality blends well with people of all ages. She shares ideas and energy for confirmation, youth and young adult ministries that are exciting. Her worship leadership is strong and her preaching is relevant and meaningful. We look forward to seeing her gifts flourish and grow here. She is excited that God is leading her to serve at Union UCC and is ready for this next adventure.

Basket Social Wednesday, October 4, Fellowship Hall Doors open at 5:30 pm/Social begins 7 pm Tickets are $5 each with 25 on a sheet and are available from the church office. There are only 150 tickets, so secure yours early! Hot dogs & soda served Donations of filled baskets (valued about $10) & door prizes can be brought to the church office at any time, or to Fellowship Hall between noon & 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct 4. Donations of baked goods can be brought to the kitchen on Wednesday evening.

2 Mission Committee

Holy Joe’s Cafe : October’s Mission Benefitting UCC Military Coffee House By Susan Smith During the entire month of October, Holy Grounds will serve Equal Exchange coffee, a fair-trade brand of gourmet products. Equal Exchange, the world’s largest worker-owned coffee roaster, has partnered with a sister congregation, the First Congregational Church in Wallingford, CT, to pro- vide coffee to the troops serving oversees. Started by a UCC military chap- lain, Holy Joe’s Café offers men and women on active duty a place to come, relax, and talk with chaplains. This “Coffee House and Café Ministry” provides our military personnel with a place where they can be emotion- ally and spiritually renewed and have a moment of peace as well as a cup of gourmet coffee. It opens doors to communication and allows troops to begin to heal their concerns and relieve their burdens related to the home front or their deployment. By making a donation during Holy Grounds, the Mission Committee will pass those donations on to First Congregational Church so they can ship Equal Exchange coffee to the participating UCC military chap- lains. By purchasing and serving the same coffee that is going to the troops, we here at Union UCC can enjoy a special connection with our active military members. While you enjoy the coffee, we hope you, too, can be emo- tionally and spiritually renewed within the walls of Union UCC. Emergency Relief Efforts Operation Project Food Bank During September, Hurricanes Harvey and Irma brought high winds, heavy rain, and huge storm surges to Texas, Flori- Every November, Union UCC is responsible da, Georgia, South Carolina, Cuba, St Marten, St Thomas, St John, and more islands. Life for millions of families was to provide volunteers to help distribute food at turned upside down, for many life will never be the same. the Northern Lehigh Food Bank in Emer- Earlier in the year, forest fires were out of control in the ald. Ten to twelve volunteers are needed on West, tornadoes were ripping through the Midwest, plus there Thursday November 2, 9, and 16 from 3:34 were typhoons in the Philippines, flooding in India, droughts pm - 7:15 pm and on Saturday November 18 in Africa, and more. Natural disasters result in loss of life, from 8:30 am - 12:00 noon. Please consider loss of homes, damage to property and possessions, loss of providing time to help others, call Phil Wehr income, loss of everything. 610-767-3657 or Wilbur Romig 610-841- How does Union UCC help during these times? First 6586. The food bank is located on Center Street through prayer, then through communications, then through in Emerald, directly across from the Washing- sharing and caring for those families who need their spirits lifted. Every donation, every helping hand, every blood dona- ton Township Municipal building. tion provides a much needed boost to restore some resem- The NL food bank provides food relief to blance of life to the affected families. over 250 families in the local area. Director Union UCC’s yearly support to Blanket Sunday, One Great Dale Bryfogle manages the huge task of oversee- Hour of Sharing, Our Churches Wider Mission, and other ing the daily operations of the food bank, along mission agencies provides for disaster relief supplies to be with many volunteers from the community, placed in storage and ready when disaster strikes. Addi- over twelve participating local churches, and tional donations are provided through member gifts when natu- other service organizations. ral disasters are over, going directly to help those areas of dev- She is always looking for more regular help- astation. To help provide disaster relief to families affected by ers to organize, stock shelves, distribute food Hurricanes Harvey, Union UCC is hosting a golf tourna- and other duties. Volunteer opportunities are ment on Oct 7, organized by member Matt Gerry. The available on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, consistory has requested $5,000 from the Funds of Lasting Saturdays, and Sundays. Please contact Phil Gifts endowment fund to be provided to the Mission Commit- or Wilbur for more information. tee to prepare over 300 hygiene kits for Church World Ser- vices, plus a cash donation for disaster relief. Church World Services has already shipped over 100,000 hygiene kits to families affected by Harvey and Irma. The spirit of generosity and the desire to help people around the world is a strong tradition here at Union 3 UCC. Thank you for supporting mission projects all year long.

Fall Blood Drive Thanks to successful collections in the past, Union UCC will host a blood drive through Miller-Keystone Blood Center. This is an additional drive this year. This will be a blood drive only event. There will not be any soup sales during this Sunday, November 12 collection. Please Where School Memories Begin spread the word and consider donat- ing blood on this day. Sign up online The Preschool is once again up and running, as students at www.giveapint.org, or contact fill the classrooms with the joy of learning. This time of year Susan Smith at (610) 366-7284 to schedule an appointment. Appoint- always brings the excitement of new supplies, new learning ments will be from 8:00 am to 1:00 themes, and endless possibilities of the fun to come. This pm. If you are unable to give blood, year also brings a new member to our staff; we would like to consider making a monetary dona- welcome Nancy Moran as a Teacher Assistant for our 3 and 4 tion. Miss the soup sale? We’ll bring year-old classes. The focus of our lessons in September is that back in March, when we’ll do all about our students: themselves, their families, their another blood drive as well. school, and their communities. Feel free to check out the Preschool hallways as we add graphs of our favorite animals, favorite foods and other themed artwork. With a nip in the air these past few days, it reminds us Join the Choir! that summer is fading away and that fall will soon be in full Practice Schedules: swing. Looking ahead to October, mark your calendars for Tuesday Nights—Youth our Cemetary Crawl: Family 5k and Tot Trot on October 21st. Registration will begin at 1:30 with a 2:00 start time for the Cherubs (age 4-1st grade)– run. 10% of our profits will go to Trinity by the Sea Pre- 6pm school in Port Aransas, which was devastated by Hurricane Harvey. Afterwards, stay and enjoy Trunk or Treat begin- Juniors (2nd-5th grades) ning at 3:00. 6:30pm We are selling KidStuff Coupon Books for our school for $25! Save at Macy's, Sears, Dick's, Michaels, Payless + more! Middlers (6th-8th grades) Twenty-six other editions are available for other states. 7pm KidStuff ships books to our school. Email us at Unity Choir—7:30pm [email protected] to order any edition.

-Annette Wilcox, Director High School (9th-12th)- Wednesdays @6pm Check us out on Facebook— or on our website– Neffs UCC Preschool www.unionucc.org/preschool If you have a child or know of one who would enjoy learning in Sunday Mornings—Adults our fun and caring environment, registration information can be Heritage Choir-7:15am found on our website or by calling the Preschool directly. Horizon Choir-9:15am

Contact: Blake Hoppes Curriculum aligned with Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards [email protected] Whole child focused: academic, social and emotional

4 Contact: Kathy Bonsell Phone: 610-767-6961 Email: [email protected]

5K Cemetery Crawl—Oct. 21st—2:00pm Help support our very own preschool and help a preschool in Port Aransas, Texas which was devastated by Hurricane Harvey. Talk to your friends and family, get sponsors, and bring your family to run or walk through our cemetery. Full or partial 5K. Wagons and strollers are fine. Participation prizes for all. Prizes for top three fund-raising families. Look for TRINITY by the SEA Day School donation jar in our foyer if you can’t make the 5K. Any questions, see Kathy Bonsell or Annette Wilcox.

Union UCC and Union Evangelical Lutheran would like to invite all children to our sixth TRUNK-OR-TREAT on Saturday, October 21st, 3:00 to 5:00 pm. We will be in both our grove parking lot and the Lutheran lot with a short cemetery walk in between. Wear your costume and pick up treats at each participating decorated vehicle. Both churches will also have food for our hungry trunk-or-treaters. Hope you can join us at this fun and safe event! We are still looking for families, groups and/or organizations to decorate vehicles and hand out candy. Please sign up on Kathy’s door or in the foyer.

Our Sunday JOIN US FOR BIBLE JOURNALING School has OCT. 5 AND OCT. 19 IN ROOM 5, 9:30-11 started Bring a Journal Bible. We have art supplies! another year of fun and learning. We ~ We meet the first Thursday of every have a month in Room 5 at 7pm. We are always wonderful team excited to share their looking for new members! faith with your children every Sunday ~We have already made hoagies (Sept. 30) during the Education Hour (9:15- and ran a Messy Church Workshop (Oct. 1). ~ We will have a second Messy Church 10:15). Start anytime! Workshop on Dec. 3rd. Look for more info next month. ~ Our committee sends birthday cards, a $25 Target birthday gift, Thank you to our 3rd/4th/5th and a $20 gift card to the house parents to purchase birthday graders for making gifts for our supplies to children at Bethany Home in Womelsdorf, PA. Homebound members. The gifts ~ Our committee sends birthday cards to our children on their first through fourth birthdays. were delivered with the mums. ~ Our next project—Holiday HOPE CHESTS for local chil- They also made a fall craft for dren (delivered by the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley). Meals on Wheels recipients. Look for information in the foyer. Empty shoeboxes needed!

SNEAKER STROLL (our version of the Children’s Church Calendar CROP WALK) October 8th during Sunday Oct. 1 Matthew 21:23-32 (communion in Room 5) School AND Children’s Oct. 8 Sneaker Stroll (mission) Matthew 21:33-46 Church. Wear your sneakers or Oct. 15 Philippians 4:1-9 crocs and bring your donation Oct. 22 Matthew 22:15-22 envelope! 5 Youth Group News Grades 6-12 For more information contact: Pastor Kris [email protected] 610-657-6007 Cell Or Dave DiPaolantonio at 610-349-9162 and youth [email protected]. Facebook: Union UCC Youth Group www.unionucc.org/Ministries/Youth Group Anyone who is in grades 6-12 is considered a member of youth group. Adults and parents who meet our safe child guidelines are welcome as chaperones, drivers and team members. Friends and families are always invited (unless noted).

Sunday, October 15th Church-Wide Hike Hike the Appalachian Trail near the Lehigh Gap Nature Center. Meet at church @ 12:30. It’s about a 3-4 hour hike. Remember to wear sturdy shoes or boots, warm comfortable clothes, bring a poncho or raincoat, a water bottle, sun- screen, hat and healthy snacks to sustain you along the way. RSVP to Dave D by Friday, October 13. Keep me as the Cemetery Crawl and Trunk or Treat Saturday, October 21 Sign up apple of Your eye. with Mrs. Bonsell to help or to save a spot for your family’s car. -Psalm 17:8

Breakfast Club Guest Speaker: Sunday, October 22 Brad Hackett Brad Hackett, Muhlenberg College Track Coach talks about the college search process with 30 years of experience on college campus- es. THE BREAKFAST CLUB (High School Class) at 9:15am-10:15am Room 4 Basement

Sunday, November 5th during Coffee Hour—Sandwich Fundraiser

Nov 17-19 Confirmation Class Retreat at Camp Icthus 9th-12th graders are welcome to join the Confirmation Class for the weekend. Space is limited, contact Pastor Kris for forms.

Dec 17 Advisory Team Meeting and Lunch 11:45-12:30 Church-Wide Christmas Caroling 12:30-3:30 $50 Deposit for Regional Youth Event due. Made to “Union UCC Youth Group”

Regional Youth Event 2018 Join other UCC youth from PA, MD, NJ, NY and DE at California University, PA (near Pittsburgh) July 19-22, 2018. $50 deposits being collected now through December 17 to hold your spot. Talk to Dave or PK with your questions.

SUNDAY MORNINGS Confirmation Class 9:15-10:15am Resumes in September Letters to our Youth in 8th grade have been mailed inviting them to THE MUNCH BUNCH (6th & 7th grade be a part of the confirmation class. A registration fee of $50 and 2nd Floor Room 203) forms are due now. A required information session for each student CONFIRMATION CLASS (8th grade Youth and at least 1 parent will be on October 1st, 9:15-10:15 in the Room) Confirmands can go to The Break- Youth Room (basement.) This will be the last day to join the fast Club when there is no class. class. If you know someone who is interested in being in the class, THE BREAKFAST CLUB (9th- 12th grade please have them contact the church office or watch our website for Room 4) the forms and information. 6 Property Committee by Phil Wehr Blast from the Past Where has the time gone? Fifteen years ago, on August 2, 2002, the con- tractors began construction of the New Beginning Addition. Trees and side- walks were removed, the building layout was marked off, followed by the dig- ging of the foundation. By September, the basement block walls were going up, and the elevator shaft started. On Sept 11, 2002, the basement doorway from the New Beginning Addition to the parish house was created, by cutting and removing a six foot wide by seven feet high slab of twelve inch thick con- crete. By October 1, 2002 the concrete basement floor was finished, along with the basement interior block walls.

Onto the Present Where has the food stand gone in the grove? After over 70 years of faith- ful service to Union Church and more recently Union United Church of Christ, the food stand said some final good bye’s to the Blues Nite Out crowd on Satur- day Aug. 26, 2017. Deconstruction of the food stand began the following Mon- day, and was completely removed by Thursday. Layout of the new food stand began on Friday, with ground being moved the following week.

Looking to the Future Where will the hot dogs, sodas and ice cream be served in the grove next year? From our new and im- proved food stand which will start to take shape and rise up in the next coming months. Contractors will be busy this fall and winter to construct this new building for Union UCC’s grove. Excitement is in the air as the grove welcomes this change to the landscape. Stay tuned for more updates !! Adult Study Friday Morning Adult Class 9:30am-11am – Room 5 (Basement) Everyone is welcome at any time as your schedule allows.

Friday, October 6, 13, and 20 with Pastor Kris What is the Bible?: How an Ancient Library of Poems, Letters, and Stories Can Transform the Way You Think and Feel About Everything by Rob Bell. Have you ever wondered – Why should we bother with such an ancient book? Isn’t it all myths and fairy tales? What about all that violence? And the contradic- tions? What is the Bible?

Sunday Morning Adult Class 9:15-10:15 - Room 5 (Basement) Everyone is welcome at any time as your schedule allows. Life Stories: A Memoir Workshop with Vicki Mayk and Pastors Kris and Patience Sunday Oct. 1, 8, 15 and 22 The late author William Zinsser said, "writers are the custodians of memory.” But don’t let the thought that you’re not a writer stop you: everyone has a story to tell! In this four-session class, participants will learn the basics of crafting memoir for your own pleasure or to create a legacy for loved ones. Through in-class exercises and ideas to take home, participants will learn the foundations of writing our most sacred stories: the tales of the life God has given us. Participants should bring a notebook and pen. The class will be taught by Vicki Mayk, a member of our congregation who teaches memoir workshops at St. Luke’s Hospice, Wilkes University and at her own retreats. 7 WAYS TO GIVE and SUPPORT UNION UCC’S Ministry and Mission Thanks to our DONATE ONLINE with your Credit or Debit Card Go to Office Helpers! www.unionucc.org/resources/giving-and-sponsorship/ways-to- give/ and click on GIVE ONLINE button. Tom & Linda Anderson, TEXT TO GIVE Send a text to 610-857-7023 with the amount you Madeline Bingell, would like to contribute. Include the $ sign. You’ll be sent a text with Eunice Diehl, Larry directions to register. Frantz, Phyllis Hamm, ELECTRONIC GIVING you can designate an automatic weekly, semi- Bonnie Herzog, Judy monthly or monthly donation to be transferred electronically. Fill out Hoffman, Marjorie Hoff- the form at http://www.unionucc.org/egive.pdf and return it to the man, Eleanor & Ron church office. Kleckner, Linda Migliori, AMAZON SMILE Earn money for Union UCC while you shop at Amazon Barbara Panner, Linda & by signing up at https://smile.amazon.com. Set Union United Church of Wilbur Romig, Jill Christ as your charity and 0.5% of your purchases will be donated to the church. Search charities by zip code 18065. Schlosser OFFERING ENVELOPES in person or by mail Packets are given to We always welcome news- members and friends in December for the new year. Place your envelope letter assembly helpers the in the offering plate on Sundays, use the envelopes in the rack in your last Tuesday of the month seat at church for the offering plate or mail your offering by postal mail. at 9am in the Youth Room.

Worship and Pastoral Care Plan – from Pastor Kris Sunday Morning Alive We will continue to invite guest preachers until a new associate pastor is called. See the worship page for the schedule. We have also Sunday Morning Alive asked two area pastors to assist us with emergencies, pastoral care leads worship on Sun- and funerals as needed. We are so grateful that these pastors have days at 10:30 for about agreed to support our congregation through the end of Novem- six Sundays throughout ber. the year. We have a Reverend James Robison has been pastor of Good Shep- worship team that in- herd UCC, Slatedale since October 1998 and St. Paul's UCC, Big Creek cludes a group of sing- since January 2017. He has served on various PNEC Committees as ers, guitar players, key- well as being a delegate to General Synod. In addition to church work, boards and drums. he serves as President of Guardianship Support Agency, Inc. and Presi- We play traditional and dent of Watsontown Historical Association. In 1998 he graduated favorite hymns as well from Lancaster Theological Seminary. He loves dogs, chai and genealo- as contemporary and gy. alternative worship Reverend Candi Cain-Borgman is a transplanted Kansas music. farm girl. After working as a Director of Christian Education in the United Church of Christ for seventeen years she attended and graduat- Look for us ed from Lancaster Theological Seminary. Immediately out of semi- next on nary she served St. Paul's UCC in Fleetwood. She served at Ziegels Un- October 15 ion Church for almost nine years and is excited to see what God has in at 10:30am store next. She is an avid reader and an enthusiastic traveler. She and worship! her husband, Craig, share their home in Vera Cruz, Pennsylvania with four dogs, or it might be the other way round. Please continue to contact the church office, Pastor Kris or Rev. Patience as you need pastoral care. Thank you for your patience and 8 faith during this time of staff and pastoral transition. Thank you for your discipleship of service and ministry to each other and the staff. JD and Teri Fekula are our Catch the Spirit recipients for October. They were nominated by the Welcoming Committee. They will be recognized October 15, 2017 at 10:30am worship. By Teri Fekula

JD and I were both raised in the Catholic faith. Our families were routine church-goers and our faith was shaped by traditions. As adults we both valued the need for “the church” in our lives but were looking for a church with a strong sense of community and youth involvement, but also a church that embraced progressive thinking. We were so happy to find that here at Union UCC.

We have two daughters, Jacquelyn age 12, and Isabelle age 10. They are Parkland students and keep us busy with many activities. We are currently in the middle of our fall softball season and keeping dad busy since he helps coach both teams.

Last year we had the pleasure of becoming a part of the Welcoming Committee here at Union. It is an incredible group of people who are passionate about the role of the church in people’s lives. We have been very encouraged by this group and enjoy helping them plan some really fun activities.

Our daughters also sing with the Unity choir. They began singing with the youth choir when we first starting attending Union and truly enjoyed all of the musical talents and opportunities of this congrega- tion. JD has participated in several of the men’s group activities and volunteering at the food bank. Through work with Union UCC, we, as a family, spent time volunteering at the Northern Lehigh food bank, which was a wonderful opportunity for us.

Being a part of Union UCC has changed our lives for the better for several reasons. We have made new friends and regained a sense of community. It had also renewed our faith. We came to Union UCC dur- ing a time of transition, and questioning whether organized religion had a significant role in our lives. Union UCC answered that question with a resounding “YES”! Seeing how Union UCC handled the mar- riage equality issue, and how welcoming the church is overall, reinforced that we had found a church home to take up roots.

Our favorite memory was the first time we attended Union UCC’s Christmas service. We were stunned at how beautiful the church was decorated. Holding the real candles made the service even more spe- cial.

We love Union UCC because it is a welcoming church where we all look forward to coming, whether its for Sunday service and a chance to “recharge”, as we like to think of it, or whether it’s a chance for fel- lowship and fun family activities. The weekly messages, whether delivered by PK or a guest speaker, are often a source of discussion and inspiration for us. We always go home from Union with a feeling of con- tentment!

9 Women’s Lunch Date Saturday, October 7th at 1-4pm Sneak away for an afternoon with friends. Blues Nite Out Come for as long as you can.

Choose from the menu, pay your own. Mother Nature provided two beautiful summer Starlite Diner evenings for this years Blues Nite Out, which in turn brought out record crowds to Neffs Church 233 Pennsylvania Route 100, Allentown Grove to enjoy music, food, and fellowship. Two RSVP to Aften Hamm by October 1 fun nights for members and the community, spon- at [email protected] or Contact Church Office sored by Union United Church of Christ. The Bryant Brothers returned Friday night to a Women’s Retreat 2018 large crowd of followers who steadily flowed into the grove as the music began. Every year, Blues Union UCC Women’s Nite Out is their favorite performance spot . They Retreat Weekend truly appreciate the opportunity to play in our April 27-29, 2018 beautiful grove. Brothers Tom and Bob, and bass Trout Lake Retreats, Stroudsburg player Ray performed a variety of classic rock and $135, Collecting blues songs through out the evening. Collecting $75 Deposit Now through January Saturday’s event started off with a return per- to hold your spot. formance by Bev Conklin and her BC Combo Payment plans and financial assistance availa- Band. Winner of multiple Lehigh Valley Music ble. Checks to Union UCC, Memo Line – awards over the past years, Bev and her band en- Women’s Retreat tertained an ever growing crowd. Afterwards Bev Questions or More Info: Pastor Kris commented “Thank you so much for inviting me, what a wonderful setting for our band to perform, your helpers are fantastic”. The grove was packed surrounding the stage and pavilion as the Sarah Ayers Band started their Part time employment opportunity - Union main set. This year Sarah was joined by award Church Cemetery - duties include lawn mowing, winning blues harmonica player James Supra. Sa- grass trimming, general landscaping and ground rah, James and the band played two excellent sets work, set up and clean up for funerals, and to a capacity crowd in the grove. Sarah comments more. Average of 20 hours per week during “ This is our favorite family gig of the year, we love spring, summer, and fall, 5 - 10 hours per week coming to Blues Nite Out and Neffs Church Grove”. during the winter. Applicants must be in physi- Saturday’s event was bittersweet due to the fact cal shape to perform duties stated that the food stand was being used for the last above. Please call Phil Wehr at 610-767-3657 time. Members were serving the last dip of ice cream, the last sausage sandwich, the last hot dog. Who really ate that last hot dog? Phil ? Ju- Hospital Stay Information: lie ?? Or Flat Jesus ??? The pastors try to do hospital visits on Mondays, Special thanks to all Blues Nite Out helpers Wednesdays, and Fridays/Saturdays hoping they will see any (over 70 members), bakers, chefs, ice cream dip- of our members during a hospital admission. pers, raffle ticket sellers and music lovers who help If you are in the hospital, please ask a family member to make this community event a success, and bless- or friend to call one of our pastors or the church office to ings for the beautiful weather. Proceeds support be sure we know you are there. 610-767-6961 Union UCC‘s general fund, the Northern Lehigh It would also be helpful to tell the staff during admissions Food Bank, the grove project, Trunk or Treat and that your church code is 511. If you are not sure that we more. know of your stay, you can also call the hospital chaplain’s office and ask them to list you under our church code 511. We are more than glad to visit, to pray with you and to ask the congregation to pray for you and care for you, 10 so please don’t hesitate to call on us. New Member Sessions Pastor Kris and our church leaders invite you to gatherings on Novem- th th ber 5 and 12 at 9:15am-10:15am. We will meet in the Memory IMPORTANT REMINDER: Room (Room 200) on the second floor. This is time to get to know each other and ask questions. Attendance is not required to join. You will be All committees and groups must welcomed as members in worship on Sunday, November 19th at the complete a use of facility form to 8am or 10:30am worship service. schedule events or activities. For more info: Pastor Kris [email protected] Please contact Barbara, in the To sign up: Call the church office at 610-767-6961 or email Tara [email protected] or Barbara [email protected] church office at 610-767-6961 or Baptism [email protected] for We offer baptisms during worship at the 10:30 service every other month. forms and room availability. Upcoming dates are November 12 and January 14. There is a pre-baptism session for families typically held after church the Sunday before the bap- Jim and Sue Ondrey are moving! tism. To sign up: Call the church office at 610-767-6961 and speak to Tara Jim and Sue are moving to Denver, [email protected] or Barbara [email protected] CO for Jim’s job. Jennifer is in col- lege at Vanderbilt University and Natalie at Penn State. We are sad Weddings to see them leave. Their leadership To begin the process of scheduling your pre-marriage sessions and wed- and spirit has been a tremendous ding at church/a venue and/or with one of the pastors: Barbara Carinci at gift to us in a variety of ways. We 610-767-6961 [email protected] bless them and wish them all the best on this new adventure. Love and prayers go with you from your church family at Union. Consistory Minutes By Deb Wenner, subject to approval

The monthly meeting of the Union UCC Consistory was called to order on Mon- Home Visitation day, September 18, 2017, by Vice President, Aften Hamm. The Treasurer's report and the 8/21/17-9/18/17 bills were presented and Members approved. Birthdays Property Committee reported Blues Nite Out was a success. Profits of $4,700 will go to various ministries including general fund, NL food bank, Trunk or Treat, Dorothy George - Oct. 10 and more. The demolition of the food stand was completed along with removal of Eastern Comfort, 206 Dia- two pine trees; foundation work has begun. mond St Christian Ed reported that Sunday School started Sept. 10th and Children’s Slatington, PA 18080-1589 Church on Sept. 17. Hoagie sale will be ready for pick up Sept. 20. Messy Church Workshop Oct. 1. Trunk or Treat is Oct. 21. Please sign up to decorate a car. Mission Committee has not received any updates from Family Promise-we Marion Snyder-Oct. 10 need to develop a steering committee for this outreach. Money and Food from Har- 4323 Route 309 vest Home will be donated to the NL food bank. Holy Joes’ cafe will take place in Schnecksville, PA 18078 October. Sneaker Stroll money will be donated to the Allentown CropWalk. Blood Drive on Nov. 12. Food bank volunteers needed. Advent Self-Denial will go to Fami- Hilda Nagel - Oct. 23 ly Promise. $5,000 from FOLG will make over 300 hygiene kits for Church World Service disaster relief. 2757 PA Rt 309 Welcoming committee is handing out magnets and working on social media Orefield, PA 18069-9775 ads. Stewardship is planning new Stewardship drive and letter campaign, request- Emilie Peters—Oct. 24 ing $2,00 from FOLG to finance letters and postage. WA-4 Park One Sandy Dr. Fellowship reports the Basket Social will be Oct. 4 Walnutport, PA 18088 The next regular meeting of the Consistory will be held Monday, October 16, at 6:45pm. 11 Tales from the Road By Rev. Dr. Patience Stevenson, Minister of Visitation Harry B. Burger was born in Trenton, New Jersey and lived in Richboro, PA. His father had a variety of jobs, including hardware sales- Golden Times man and baker before he bought a dairy farm. Harry started high school For those wise in years and in Schwenksville, Pa, but left school to help his father on the farm. Harry young at heart. enlisted in the army at age 18. Harry was stationed at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina, where he eventually became part of the cadre of the training Our next gathering will be staff and received his Sergeant stripes. Tuesday, October 3, 2017 Harry and his wife, Shirley, were married by Captain Simpson at

Fort Jackson, S.C. Harry retired from the service as a Lieutenant Colonel Program: Parkland Strolling in the Army Reserves. Harry finished his high school diploma in evening Strings school in Pottstown, PA. Harry originally planned on attending veteri- November: Behind the Bench nary school when he began studying at Ursinus College. When he discov- ered that he would need a language to complete a veterinary degree, he Programs offered are fun, transferred to Temple University, where he received a B.S. in Biology, a informative and entertaining. Masters in Science and eventually a Doctorate in School Administration. Bring a dessert to share. Harry taught at Skippack Township Elementary School in Mont- gomery County, and then became principal in Souderton School District. 12 noon – 1:30pm He and his wife, Shirley, moved to Neffs in 1979, when Harry took a posi- FREE tion as Superintendent of Northwestern Lehigh School District. Harry re- tired in 1989. Food Bank Donation: Cereal Harry and Shirley raised 4 boys: Harry, Jr, a surgeon living in Albu- An informal sharing of Holy querque, New Mexico; Dale, a teacher in Warminster, PA; Brian, retired Communion is offered at the from the Pennsylvania Fish Commission, in Coburn, PA; and Tim, a truck end of our time together for driver for Northampton Pallet Company living in Schnecksville. Harry those who are interested. and his four sons all enjoy the outdoor sports of hunting and fishing. Harry has been very active since joining Union UCC. He has served on Consistory, and assists in teaching a bible study. In addition, Harry Helping Hearts and teaches bible studies at the Salvation Army and the Allentown Rescue Communion Ministers Mission. Harry’s wife, Shirley, was a quilter and helped with many church suppers and various committees. Our Helping Hearts group cares for our members on our visitation list by deliv- Thank you Betty Brittenberg and Phil Wehr! ering flowers sponsored The grounds around our church building always look wonderful by church members and in the summer. This year we hired a service to cut the grass. The flower by visiting, sharing pray- beds and detail work was cared for by Betty Brittenberg and Phil Wehr ers and Christian friend- who volunteer their time generously to keep things looking welcoming ship. Our Communion and healthy. Ministers also share in this Look for the Peace Poles at the South entrance. They are donated ministry by delivering by the Sunday School and Children’s Church in memory of Ann Stoss and the many who have passed, who were dedicated to our communion. Our next children and church. They are also in honor of who we are as a meeting will be in UCC church. December.

12 Stewardship from the Financial Leadership Team Pastor Kris This past year we reflected on the theme of the Good Samaritan, “Go and do the same.” We challenged our congregation to share a personal faith statement about why they give their time, talent and treasure to God’s ministry and mission at Union UCC. The challenge was to have a speaker every week for a year. Over 35 people shared about the joy of giving and serving here. Thank you to those who spoke in worship and share important and meaningful words: Gary and Cheryl Yen- cho, Brad Hackett, Aften Hamm, Lisa Schaedel, Edie Fella, Susan Steinmann, Carol Pope, Tami Wassum, Randy and Dede Bilger, Carol Pope, Jennifer Haley, Susan Smith, Teresa Dalrymple, Jana Hill, Dolly and Dave Mulcahy, Marilyn and Bill Hill, Dave DiPaolantonio, Eric Minnich, Suzanne Schneider, Ed and Liz Nor- mann, Sue and Jim Ondrey, Carrington Smith, Dennis Foster, Phyllis Hamm, Karen Nuschke, Chrissy Shivok, Doug Albert, Don Penrod, Don and Candy Wingate, Elena Steidinger, Jeff and Ronnie Herbine, Doug and Angie Kuntz, Todd and Amy McCoy, Donna Christman, Karl Klinger. We’ll be kicking off a new theme for the coming year. Journey to Generosity: The Way of Jesus. It is rooted in the passage from Matthew 9:35-10: 23 when Jesus says to his disciples: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” It’s easy to see that the plentiful harvest is God’s blessings and we are the laborers. God expects us to use our spiritual and financial resources to help gather and share the bounty. God expects us to be generous because God is generous. This is at the heart of making a stewardship commitment. I look forward to continuing the journey of generosity with you.

The following donations have been accept- ed into the Union UCC Memorial Fund in memory of Priscilla A. Greiss: David & Debra Geiger Daniel & Deb Priscilla Greiss passed away Robert P. Christman Topp on September 3, 2017 and was Larry & Cynthia Hertzog Mali M. Bartges laid to rest on September 9, All Saints’ Sunday Allen Blose John & Cynthia 2017. November 5, 2017 Pam Hartzell Lindner Donald & Eileen Meyer Dustin Wingate and Dominic Come celebrate those who have Daniel Higgins LaCava were united in mar- received the Catch the Spirit Philip & Julie Wehr Award this year and we will Richard & Madeline Bingell riage under the care of Union remember those who have UCC on September 2, 2017 entered into eternal rest. John & Gloria Simock Recipients and family members, James & Carol Beers please join us as we honor you Bryan & Elaine Lebo and your family members. Monica Griffith Cliff & Carol James Guest Musician: Linda Littleton Thomas F. Fallon Lisa & Ron Runkle November 12th – Ann & Gary Gauger Keith & Lori Moore Veteran’s Sunday 13 Dan & Kathy Moore Sunday, October 1, 2017 Sunday, October 22, 2017 Worldwide Communion/Jazz Ensemble Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost 8:00am Heritage Service 8:00am Heritage Service 10:30am Horizon Service-Horizon Choir 10:30am Horizon Service-Chimes/Unity Choir Texts: Exodus 17.1-7 Guest Preacher: Rev. Don Quayle Message: The Journey Continues Lay Readers: 8:00– Lucille Kuhns Preacher: Rev. Dr. Allan Kramer-Moyer-Pastor 10:30 - Dan Topp Allan served as our Interim Pastor for the last Greeters: John & Debbie Romig, Jeff & Marcey two years. Welcome Back, Pastor Allan. Kroll Lay Readers: 8:00– Michael Roth Acolytes: 8:00AM –Marissa Christman Greeters: Jane Schappell, Jim & Edie Fella 10:30AM– Grace Baer, Katherine Schaedel Acolytes: 8:00AM –Andrew Hill 10:30AM– Cameron Kuntz Sunday, September 29, 2017 Trial Sermon and Congregational Vote Sunday for Our Associate Pastor Candidate Sunday, October 8, 2017 No 8am Worship CROP Walk / Sneaker Stroll 10:30am Horizon Service-Church Family 8:00am Heritage Service Children’s Choirs, High School Choir 10:30am Horizon Service-Children’s Choirs/ Preacher Baptism Lay Readers: 8:00– Michael Roth Texts: Exodus 20:1–4, 7–9, 12–20 10:30 - Donna Christman Message: A Rule of Love Greeters: Gene & Christina Thrash, Jen Haley Preacher: Rev. Kris Snyder-Samuelson Acolytes: 8:00AM –Mitchell Roth Lay Readers: 8:00– Liz Normann 10:30AM– 10:30 - Chrissy Shivok Greeters: Carol Pope, Ronnie Pope, Greg & Johan- na Zellner Acolytes: 8:00AM –Jacob Solt 10:30AM– Holy Grounds Coffee Hour Sunday, October 15, 2017 Healing Service Every Sunday

8:00am Heritage Service 9:15-10:15 & 11:30-12:00 10:30am Horizon Service-Sunday Morning Alive Texts: Continues on Sundays after 8am and 10:30 Wor- Message: ship Services and in between the services in Me- Preacher: Rev. Dr. Patience Stevenson morial Hall (on the same level as the sanctuary). Lay Readers: 8:00– Suzanne Schneider Stop by for snack or drink, to say hello to a friend, 10:30 - Don Penrod or learn about something new about a committee. Greeters: Doug & Angie Kuntz, Kathy & Karl Thank you to our hosting committees: Schmidt October 1— Worship Committee Acolytes: 8:00AM – October 8— No Committee

October 15— Christian Ed October 22— Mission Committee October 29—No Committee 14 Financial & Attendance Reports Operating Designat- Grand Worship CC/ Fund ed Funds Total All Service Video/ Funds Date 8AM 10:30AM Nursery Total 7-1-2017 $9,644.00 $31,965.00 41,609.00 July 2 69 220 7 296 Income $33,473.00 $973.00 $34,446.00 July 9 59 96 8 163

Expenses $29,205.00 $7,998.00 $37,203.00 July 16 69 112 CFW 181

8-31-2017 $13,912.00 $24,940.00 $38,852.00 July 23 57 80 7 144

Designated Funds category includes offerings for NIN, Mother’s Day, July 30 68 76 4 148 OGHS, Lenten, Advent, Improvement Fund, Flowers, Directory, August 6 101 167 6 274 Bulletins, Phoebe Campaign, & Special Gifts. August 13 71 210 CFW 281

Church Directory August 20 56 120 8 184 SMILE! New Church directory pictures are com- ing! Please visit the sign-up table in the foyer [after August 27 75 117 5 197

the 8am and 10:30 services] to schedule your pho- tography session and receive additional infor- TOTAL ATTENDANCE mation about this exciting event. All members, July 2016–1,077 July 2017– 932 families, friends and neighbors are encouraged to August - 2016 –807 August 2017—936 have their pictures taken. Appointments are cur- rently being scheduled for Friday, November 24 from 2 – 9pm; Saturday, November 25 from 10am – AVG ATTENDANCE 4pm; Sunday November 26 from 1 – 6pm; and July 2016–215 July 2017– 186 Monday November 27 from 2 – 9pm. You can also August - 2016-202 August 2017—234 sign up online at: https://booknow- lifetouch.appointment-plus.com/y1cp686y/. Call Cheryl Yencho at 610-799-5229 or Deidre Bilger at 610-760-8274 or Roy Middaugh at 484-892-1092 Union UCC Church Staff

Barbara Carinci Rev. Kris Snyder-Samuelson Church Office: Church Administrator Church Telephone Extension Directory Senior Pastor 610-767-6961 Cell Phone: 610-657-6007 [email protected] Fax: 610-767-7128 610-767-6961 [email protected] Tara Henninger PO Box 66, Rev. Dr. Patience Stevenson Communications Coordinator Pastor Kris ext. 24 Pastor of Visitation 5550 Route 873 [email protected] Neffs PA 18065-0066 Cell Phone: 610-248-5587 Pastor Patience ext. 31 [email protected] Blake Hoppes www.unionucc.org Barbara Carinci ext. 21 Minister of Music Rev. Thomas N. Thomas Tara Henninger ext. 22 Pastor Emeritus [email protected] Preschool Office: 610-767-5327 Kathy Bonsell ext. 27 Music Office ext. 26 Kathy L. Bonsell Director of Christian Education Kitchen ext. 30 [email protected]

15 October 2017

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 2 3 4 9:15am Tai chi 5 6 7 9:15am Tai Chi 12pm Golden Times 9:30am Busy Bee Quilters 9:30am Bible Jour- 9am Bulletin Prep 6:30pm Spiritually Fit 6pm Cherub Choir 10am Knitwits naling 9:30am Adult Study 6:30pm Junior Choir 5pm Basket Social 7pm Chime Choir 7pm Middler Choir; Bi- 6pm High School Choir ble Study 6:30pm Spiritually Fit

9 10 9-11 Staff Meetings 11 9:15am Tai chi 12 13 14 9:15am Tai Chi 6pm Cherub Choir 9:30am Busy Bee Quilters 7pm Chime Choir 9am Bulletin Prep 12pm Private 6:30pm Spiritually Fit 6:30pm Junior Choir 10am Knitwits NEWSLETTER DEAD- 9:30am Adult Study party 7pm Welcoming Cmte 7pm Middler Choir; Bi- 6pm High School Choir LINE 6pm Wedding Re- 2pm Wedding ble Study 6:30pm Spiritually Fit hearsal 7:30pm Unity Choir

16 17 10am Prescool Board 18 9:15am Tai chi 19 20 21 9:15am Tai chi 6pm Cherub Choir 9:30am Busy Bees 9:30am Bible Jour- 9am Bulletin Prep 2pm Preschool 6:30pm Spiritually Fit 6:30pm Junior Choir 10am Knitwits naling 9:30am Adult Study Walk-a-Thon 6:45pm Consistory 7pm Middler Choir; Bi- 6pm High School Choir 1:30pm Property 3pm Trunk or ble Study 6:30pm Spiritually Fit Committee Treat 7:30pm Unity Choir 7pm Chime Choir Wedding

23 24 25 9:15am Tai chi 26 27 28 9:15am Tai chi 6pm Cherub Choir 9:30am Busy Bees 7pm Chime Choir 9am Bulletin Prep 1pm Meet & 6:30pm Spiritually Fit 6:30pm Junior Choir 10am Knitwits 9:30am Adult Study Greet 7pm Middler Choir; Bi- 6pm High School Choir 10am Meet & Greet ble Study 6:30pm Spiritually Fit 7:30pm Unity Choir

30 319am Newsletter Mail- 6:30pm Spiritually Fit ing; 6pm Cherub Choir 6:30pm Junior Choir 7pm Middler Choir; Bi- ble Study 7:30pm Unity Choir

SUNDAYS

1 Communion 8 CROPWalk Sneaker Stroll 15 Healing Service 22 29 8am Heritage Service 8am Heritage Service 8am Heritage Service 8am Heritage Service 9:15 - 10:15 am 9:15 - 10:15 am 9:15 - 10:15 am 9:15 - 10:15 am 9:15 - 10:15 am Holy Grounds Holy Grounds Holy Grounds Holy Grounds Holy Grounds Education Hour Education Hour Education Hour Education Hour Education Hour Bible Study Bible Study Bible Study Bible Study Bible Study Horizon Singers Horizon Singers Horizon Singers Horizon Singers Horizon Singers Tech Committee 10:30am Horizon Service- 10:30am Horizon 10:30am Horizon Service- 10:30am Horizon Service- Church Family Worship Service/Children’s Church 10:30am Horizon Children’s Church Children’s Church Service/Children’s Church 11:30am Holy Grounds 11:30am Holy Grounds 11:30am Holy Grounds 11:30am Holy Grounds 11:45 am Messy Church 11:30am Holy Grounds Workshop