Fat Sunday, February 3 Following Worship

The Reverend Jonathan B. Lee, Senior Minister 860 878-2833 – [email protected] The Reverend Donna K. Manocchio, Assoc. Minister 860 529-3013 – [email protected] 860 529-4167 Church – 860 257-9637 Fax Vol. 22 No. 2 – February 1, 2008 February Newsletter Editor – Carol Harvey RHCC e-mail address – [email protected] Website: www.rhccucc.org Office Hours – 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. M-F Sunday Worship Services – 10:00 a.m. Childcare Available/Handicap Accessible

Fat Sunday, February 3rd following worship This bake sale will be hosted by our Sunday School and the confirmands. All proceeds will benefit Central Congregational Church in New Orleans. Come one and all! Enjoy Fat Sunday!

1 The season of Epiphany is waning toward Lent, and this past Sunday I preached on Matthew’s story of John baptizing Jesus in the River Jordan. That is a moment when God’s grace at work in Jesus is powerfully revealed, as the voice of God says, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” When we are baptized as Jesus was, the water reveals God’s grace already at work in us, and our identity as beloved members of God’s family is confirmed.

Martin Luther once said “There is no greater comfort on earth than baptism.” He meant that when times are tough or our doubts are raging, recalling the moment we were baptized assures us that we are still held tightly in God’s embrace. In my sermon I encouraged those of us who are baptized to obey Luther’s instruction to “Remember your baptism!” and invited those who aren’t yet to consider being baptized together during a morning worship service sometime this spring. We are all God’s beloved children; baptism reveals what is already the case.

Whether we are baptized or not, as we enter into Lent it will be of great comfort to hold onto that identity as God’s beloved children. Knowing that we come from and will always belong to God frees us to do the hard work of the season: reflecting on how much we need God, acknowledging we’ve made mistakes and hurt others, remembering Jesus’ sacrifices on our behalf. More than our jobs or status or biographical highlights, what matters most in this life is that we belong to God, always and forever.

February 3 Communion Sunday Scripture: Matthew 17:1-9 The Rev. Jonathan B. Lee Sermon: “Holy Encounter” February 6 Ash Wednesday Service 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel February 10 Scripture: Matthew 4:1-11 The Rev. Donna K. Manocchio Sermon: “Pass or Fail?” February 17 Scripture: John 3:1-17 The Rev. Jonathan B. Lee Sermon: “Saving Grace” February 24 Scripture: John 4:5-15 The Rev. Jonathan B. Lee Sermon: “Refreshment for Thirsty Disciples”

For generations Christians have set aside the weeks before Easter as a time to reflect on the depth of our need for God’s love and mercy. Lent is the season of penitence and preparation for the glorious news of Easter, and begins on Ash Wednesday. This year Ash Wednesday falls on February 6th, and all are invited to mark this holy day by worshiping together at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel. We will hear God’s word, sing hymns of preparation, and receive the sacrament of Holy Communion as spiritual nourishment for the 40 days ahead. Come, draw near to God as Lent begins. 3 Greetings from the Board of Deacons This past month, the Deacons temporarily put aside our discussions on pastoral care and visitation to focus on Easter preparation. At our last meeting, we spent a lot of time finalizing this year’s Lenten series, “Bringing Lent to Life.” The Deacons will be starting this year’s Lenten series off on February 10th by sharing with you our reflections on pastoral care and visitation (after lunch, of course!). We want to hear from all of you and have you help us assess what pastoral care programs you think would be worthwhile for our congregation. I am very pleased that our Stewardship, Christian Ed and ONA committee have all agreed to lead one of our four Sundays in our Lenten series. I hope that you will agree that we have come up with a Lenten series that should provide everyone with an opportunity to reflect and to participate. Many thanks to Donna and Jonathan for their creative spirit and their organization of this year’s series.

We did spend a bit of time at our January meeting discussing Christmas and Easter flower delivery to shut-ins. The Deacons consider delivering poinsettias and Easter flowers a very important way to reach out to our members and spend some time visiting folks we may not see on a regular basis. These deliveries are made to shut- ins, convalescent homes and other health care facilities, and to friends and families identified by the Ministers and Diaconate (for example, church members that have lost partners or parents). We have always felt that our members should have these beautiful flowers in their possession either on or before the holiday so they can brighten up their holiday. There is also a desire to have poinsettias and Easter plants decorate our Sanctuary through each holiday (for Christmas Day and Easter Sunday services). In order to satisfy both goals, the Diaconate will be asking the Flower Committee to purchase extra flowers that we will deliver to folks on our visitation list. These flowers will be paid for out of the Diaconate budget. The Memorial plants you order will be used to decorate the Sanctuary on Christmas and Easter. You will still have the option to pick up your plants as you have in the past after Sunday morning service.

For me, Lent is a season of soul-searching and reflection. We look forward to having you join us for some time to study and reflect during this Lenten season.

Your Brothers and Sisters of the Diaconate,

Deb Copes, Senior Deacon Julie Dostie, Katie Hoffman-Fulda, Pat Howland, Cheryl Hummel, Bob Inderbitzen, Jean Palmer, Julia Pickett, Christopher Sheehan and Barry Wilcock

4 “What does Lent mean to me?” was the question I was asked recently and it left me thinking about what it really is and why it’s so important. Lent and Easter is a time where we can really discover God’s everlasting love now and always, but it is a time of reflection, signs, actions and choices. It is a time where I find myself asking how might I live in the way of God more deeply so that His love and light for the world will shine more brightly. I recently read the statement “Jesus, who reveals God to the world, reminds us we have a home in God, and God has a home in us. As we continue Jesus’ ministry we know that we are not alone.” So as you move from Lent to Easter, and from reflection to action remember to look deeply for new ways that we can be renewed by the spirit of God’s love within all of us.

God’s Peace,

Stacie Damiana SHROVE TUESDAY BARBECUE FEBRUARY 5TH 6:00-8:00 PM IN THE CHAPEL/CLASSROOMS

This year’s festivities will include a true backyard picnic barbecue with: BARBECUED CHICKEN~HAMBURGERS~HOTDOGS MAKE YOUR OWN SUNDAES WITH LOTS OF DIFFERENT TOPPINGS AND FLAVORS All you have to bring is a mouthwatering appetite and a SALAD TO SHARE! We will be decorating flower pots, planting bulbs, and making a bug craft. This is an event for all ages! Following our food and fun, we will all quietly “put away our Alleluias” as we prepare for the quiet season of Lent. A FREE WILL OFFERING WILL BE RECEIVED TO DEFER THE COSTS FOR THE DINNER AND TO BENEFIT THE KAITLIN DILLON FUND OF ROCKY HILL.. KAITLIN HAS BEEN VERY ILL. 5

Bringing Lent to Life: “Conversations about Opportunities and Challenges of RHCC” and “Reflecting Together on the Lord’s Prayer”

After worship on four Lenten Sundays, you are invited to a light lunch, followed by a brief presentation and discussion on current topics of importance to the life of our congregation. During the season of Lent we are each called to reflect honestly on the depth of our personal need for God’s grace and guidance; these gatherings are an invitation to do such reflection as a Christian community of faith. Each will use the morning’s gospel lesson as the foundation for reflection, building on ideas raised in the morning sermon. A Lenten program for children will run simultaneously, allowing parents to participate!

Sunday, February 10 Matthew 4:1-11 The temptation in the wilderness Presenter: Deacons—“What about pastoral care?”

Sunday, February 24 John 4:5-42 The Samaritan woman at the well Presenter: Stewardship—“Will we have money to be the church in 50 years?

Sunday, March 2 John 9:1-41 The healing of the blind man Presenter: CE—“Is there really a place for children and youth at RHCC?”

Sunday, March 9 John 11:1-45 Lazarus, Martha and Mary Presenter: ONA Committee—“What is Open and Affirming?”

Then, there will be two weeknight gatherings in the Chapel, led by the ministers, to provide the personal, individual counterbalance to the community-oriented Sunday sessions. See additional information on the next page.

Leap into

A Children’s Lenten Series 11:45a.m. 2nd Hour Program

The Children will join us for a light lunch and then proceed to their program of a lesson, craft and games.

February 10th : Walking with God February 24th : Fill up with the Lord March 2nd: Get into It March 9th: Drop the Load

If you would like to join us for a kid-friendly, action based program please see the sign up sheet in the Fiorilli Room.

Bringing Lent to Life: Reflecting Together on the Lord’s Prayer Tuesday, February 26 and Thursday, March 13 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. in the Chapel

Come and join with other members of our church family to discover anew the words Jesus gave his disciples to pray. Our time exploring the central prayer of our Christian faith will include prayer, reflection, and sharing.

7 The One Great Hour of Sharing Offering will be collected on Sunday March 2, 2008. The One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) is the relief, refugee and development fund of the United Church of Christ. It is one of the Special Mission offerings of Our Churches Wider Mission (OCWM).

World Day of Prayer will be celebrated on Friday, March 7, 2008. World Day of Prayer is a world wide ecumenical movement of women of many faith traditions who come together to observe a common day of prayer each year on the first Friday in March. This year the program is written by the women of Guyana. The theme is “God’s Wisdom Provides New Understanding.” There will be more information to come.

The Missions Board has voted to donate the Easter offering to Foodshare. Just a reminder: Easter is early this year on March 23.

ONA As we reported in the January Church Mouse, we have organized our programming around 4 themes: 1) O and A: a definition of the issue 2) What does the Bible have to say about this issue? 3) What is it like to be gay? How does it feel to be the object of discrimination? Personal stories from O and A churches and people we love. 4) How would an ONA resolution affect ME and life at my beloved church?

We have begun by forming subcommittees to focus on the first two themes. Theme 1) will be first addressed as part of the Lenten series on March 9. Please attend our first program about ONA.

The suggestions we have received have been very helpful for our planning. Please continue to share your ideas in our suggestion boxes in the Narthex and the hallway outside the office. Open and Affirming (ONA) Committee Michael Bower Gail Hall (chair) Pat Howland Steve Smith Laurel Cole Stephanie Heneghan Bob Inderbitzen Wendy Ware Mary Dean Bill Hoffman Ron Robbins Tim Dostie Katie Hoffman-Fulda Tom Rolfe

As we look ahead to this year’s campaign, the Stewardship Committee would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude and appreciation to all those who have pledged to expend a portion of their treasure on the health of our church family and the maintenance of the “brick and mortar” of this church in recent years. Your enthusiastic support of the Chapin Hall renovation (as witnessed by the successful capital campaign and the large turnout at recent “walk-thrus” of the demolition work), as well as your unwavering response to all calls for outreach, be it fundraising for Biloxi or used sneakers for those in need, proves that we are a congregation that truly cares about the whole church. For this we can be proud: we are a healthy church, both spiritually and physically. Although meeting our goal each year is a challenge – not always achieved – we do realize how much each of you do give, in your time, talents, prayers as well as your financial help. We are confident that this will continue—that each of you will consider everything this church does for us, and support the upcoming campaign as much as you can.

We are All Stewards. Recently the church has begun to switch to more energy efficient methods of equipping the building, using blue recycling bins in all our offices and around the building for recycling paper. We have installed energy efficient light bulbs, turned down the thermostats, maintained yearly contracts on oil deliveries, and our newly refurbished Chapin Hall will be a “green project”, as environmentally clean as possible. Stewardship is not just about raising money for the church, it is being responsible for things we all cherish.

From the Financial Secretary The third quarter ended on January 31, 2008. Overdue pledge notices will be sent the week of February 10, 2008. Thank you for keeping your pledge payments up to date.

Year-end tax statements are prepared upon request. If you have requested one in previous years, it should arrive during the week of January 28, 2008. If you need a statement and don't receive one, please contact me.

Thank you.

Kim Batterson Biglow

9 200th Anniversary of the Meeting House

In 1908 the church purchased its second pipe organ, and voted “that we give the old organ to the Swedish Church in Danbury, Conn.” That organ served for 41 years, under the initial care of Mr. Frank Williams, who was appointed organist in 1906. In 1949, a Baldwin electric organ was installed over the summer (along with the installation of choir pews), the cost of which, with chimes, was approx. $5,000.

The third organ purchased during the last century was bought in 1975, after a heated debate by the congregation over whether to continue with the electric-style organ or to revert to the traditional pipe organ. The choice of pipe organ won out and was purchased from the Austin Organ Company of Hartford at a cost of $40,000 and took one month to install.

“There will be no fake pipes in this organ” said Allan McNeely, from the organ company. Often front pipes are merely for decoration, but this organ has long silver colored zinc pipes which produce the low notes and smaller tin and lead pipes to produce the higher notes. It closely resembles organs installed in European churches 200 years ago.

From The Hartford Courant June 29, 1975, and RHCC church records

Rocky Hill Congregational Church Choir in 1940’s 10

[Prayer concerns are omitted from the online version of the newsletter.]

WORSHIP SCHEDULE Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 a.m. with childcare Children are invited to go to their Sunday school classes after Children’s Lesson

2008

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY

3 4 5 6 Dixieland Combo in 7:00pm Women’s AA 9:00am Staff Training 9:00am Quilters Worship Today! 7:30pm Bell Choir 6:00pm Shrove Tuesday 10:30am Elm Hill Svc 11:15am Fat Sunday Barbeque & Svc 7:00pm Ash Wednesday Bake Sale 7:00pm Board and Service in Chapel 11:30am Orchestra Committee Mtgs 7:30pm Adult Choir Rehearsal 2:00pm Youth Group Rollerblading 10 11 12 13 11:45am Lenten Series 7:00pm Women’s AA 9:30am Office Staff Mtg 9:00am Quilters 11:45am Children’s 7:30pm Bell Choir 7:00pm CE Mtg 12:00pm Stepney Guild Lenten Series 7:30pm ONA Mtg 6:00pm Bible Study 11:45am Confirmation 7:30pm Adult Choir 2:00pm UCC Conf Mtg

17 18 19 20 OFFICE CLOSED 7:00pm ABC Quilters 9:00am Quilters PRESIDENT’S DAY 7:30pm Adult Choir 7:00pm Women’s AA 7:30pm Bell Choir

24 25 26 27 11:30am Orchestra 7:00pm Women’s AA 9:30am Office Staff Mtg 9:00am Quilters Rehearsal 7:30pm Bell Choir 7:00pm Lenten Series 6:00pm Bible Study 11:45am Lenten Series 7:30pm ONA 7:30pm Adult Choir 11:45am Children’s Lenten Series 4:00pm Confirmation VOICE MAIL INSTRUCTIONS If you call the church and the Voice Mail answers, you do not have to listen to the entire message. Anytime during the message you can have the call transferred directly to the person you are trying to reach by simply keying in the following numbers: Jonathan Lee, Sr. Minister 202 Stacie Damiana, Dir. of CE 204 Donna Manocchio, Assoc. Minister 203 Will Kanute, Dir. of Music 207 Carol Harvey, Office Secretary 201 Dick Webster, Sexton 205

Serving and Growing Together

2008 Resource Guide for Officers, Boards, Committees, and Delegates of our Church

All members are urged to review the following ways in which you might serve the Rocky Hill Congregational Church UCC and to volunteer your time and talent during the coming weeks of the nominating season

We ALL have gifts to share!

Which Boards and Committees best match with your skills and interests?

OFFICERS AND COUNCIL MEMBERS – Moderator 2-year term; Other officers 1-year term

Moderator – Lay leader of the Church, works closely with staff and council Clerk – Issues call for meetings, maintains Church records and takes minutes Treasurer – Oversees financial management of Church Assistant Treasurer – Maintains financial records Benevolence Treasurer – Oversees contributions and disbursement of mission funds Historian - Records notable activities and maintains historic records Council - Overall policy and planning board of the Church

BOARDS – Boards provide guidance and leadership to the Church in its four main program areas, meeting monthly.

Diaconate: Deacons are responsible for the development and enrichment of the spiritual life of our church. They work with the Ministers to plan, lead and assist in worship, welcome new members, provide pastoral care and opportunities for spiritual growth.

Board of Trustees: Trustees see to the care and repair of our grand old building and grounds, undertake new projects (including construction and renovation) and oversee our budget and investments.

Board of Christian Education: The Board works with the Director of Christian Education to provide educational opportunities to the congregation, including weekly Sunday school, seasonal events and workshops. 14 Board for Missions: How we reach out to others with our time and gifts is the responsibility of the Board of Missions. Board members learn about needs and programs locally and globally, administer the benevolence budget, and interpret and provide outreach opportunities to the wider congregation.

COMMITTEES - Committees assist in the work of the church to complete specific tasks.

Stewardship Committee: Helps and inspires the membership to share their gifts of time, talent and finances.

Inreach Committee: Develops and coordinates fellowship activities. Recruits members for greeting, serving during coffee hour, assists with social functions and special receptions.

Music Commitee: Responsible for providing support and ensuring the continued vitality of our ministries of music.

Church Fair Committee: Designs, plans and oversees the amazing annual Church Fair and determines how the proceeds are spent.

Council-at-Large: The Church Council is the central visioning, planning and policy body of the Church, and at-large members represent and carry information to and from the wider congregation.

Co-Op Nursery Committee: The Cooperative Nursery School is housed right in our building, and this Committee works to provide support and continued connections between church and school.

Auditing Committee: Those with accounting skills help to keep our financial records in order.

Church-Keeping Committee: Ever wonder why the windows in our church are so clean? Why the kitchen sparkles? Why the rooms are so organized? Church-Keepers bring their housekeeping skills to bear on our church family home.

Flower Committee: The Flower Committee coordinates with membership and others to ensure flowers are provided for regular and special services. At the end of each service they also see that the flowers brighten the days of those who need them.

15 COMMITTEES (continued)

Nominating Committee: This committee helps church members find their way into the ministry of the congregation by matching skills and interests with the needs of the Boards, Committees, Council and Officer positions.

Child Care: Provides childcare on an as-needed basis during special church services, programs and business meetings.

Ushering Committee: Folks sign on for one month of the year and find ushers for those Sundays – a great way to meet people !

Advocacy Panel – The Advocacy Panel is responsible for the full implementation of our Safe Church Policy and responds when needed to address problems related to that policy. Two members of this Panel are elected by the congregation to serve one 5-year term.

DELEGATES

Connecticut Conference: Each year the Connecticut Conference of the United Church of Christ meets for the semi-annual business meeting and annual conference. Each Church sends delegates to attend and represent the interests of its Chuch. Two delegates are needed for one- year terms to attend the annual and semi-annual meetings.

Hartford Association: The Hartford Association of the Connecticut Conference meets several times a year to install and ordain ministers, enjoy fellowship and see to business relevant to its 21 member churches. Two delegates represent our church at these functions.

Christian Activities Council: The CAC is a Hartford-based mission- oriented organization with whom RHCC has had a significant relationship for years. Our delegate serves as our representative on their Board and keeps the congregation informed of CAC activities.

16 ROCKY HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 805 Old Main Street – Rocky Hill, CT 06067 (860)529-4167 office • (860)257-9637 fax office @ rhccucc.org • website: rhccucc.org

Office Hours 8 am – 2 pm – Monday – Friday The Reverend Jonathan B. Lee, Senior Minister

The Reverend Donna K. Manocchio, Associate Minister

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY Don’t 1 2

7 8 9 forget to 5:30pm TOPS 8:30am Men’s Bible Study 6:30pm Missions Mtg 7:30pm Book Club send your

Valentine

14 15 16 Cards! 5:30pm TOPS 8:45am Yoga

21 22 23 5:30pm TOPS 8:30am Men’s Bible Study 7:00pm Fair Mtg 8:45 am Yoga

28 29 5:30pm TOPS 10:00am Haven Health

02 Anthony Asarisi 16 John Speers Suzan Rodriguez Anne Hart Cynthia Hunt 17 Anne Balling Doreen Grandell Laura Butler Kandi O’Brien Patrick D’Amato 03 Camden Hanson Ryan Painter 04 Bill Timrud Owen Geddes Tom Ellegard 18 Kathy Bighinatti 05 Kimberly Sweezy Alexander Benson Harry and Bev 06 Ryan Madsen 19 Leona Griswold Schmidt Cole Triblets Cory Sparry were married on 07 Angelo Rutigliano 20 Midge Harvey February 15, 1958 Cheryl Hummel 22 Myrtle Furman Susan Garvey Brendan Flynn Wow! 50 Years! 08 Susan White Nathaniel Ware Congratulations! Robert Mullins 23 Lee Rafferty Christopher Gengenbach Scott Bengston 09 Alicia Partinski Brett Timrud 10 Daniel Scribano 24 Jan LaCava 11 Emery Stanyek Will Rolfe Val Triblets Ben Rolfe Matthew McTigue 25 Barbara Bennett Jeffrey White Hannah DeGiovanni 12 Annie Hokans-Doll 26 Christine Papineau The family and friends of Alfred Harlow III Betty Swain Caryn Doten Larry Carlson Alice Kitson 13 Beverly Schmidt Karen Birck who died 14 Christopher Mosure 27 Dot Wenzel January 9, 2008 Gordon Titcomb III Roxanne Molina Brian Speers 28 Wayne MacNeil 16 Georgiana Wilson 29 Joseph Sheehan

RHCC Book Club Thursday, February 7, 2008 at 7:30 pm Based on Literature Circles used in schools. A bit more formal discussion of books with a discussion director. Hopefully all readers will bring a discussion question and will take a turn as director. All readers are welcome!

"NINETEEN MINUTES" by Jodi Picoult

"In nineteen minutes, you can mow the front lawn, color your hair, watch a third of a hockey game. In nineteen minutes, you can stop the world, or you can just jump off it. In nineteen minutes, you can get revenge. In Sterling, New Hampshire, seventeen-year-old high school student Peter Houghton has endured years of verbal and physical abuse at the hands of his classmates. One final incident of bullying sends Peter over the edge and leads him to commit an act of violence that forever changes the lives of Sterling's residents."

March 6, 2008 “WAITING” by Ha Jin This novel, the winner of the 1999 National Book Award for Fiction, is a story of unexpected richness and feeling. Set amid the social and political realities of 20th century China, author Ha Jin writes of Lin Kong, a man living in two worlds, struggling with the conflicting claims of two utterly different women. One reviewer concludes: “Waiting charms and startles us with its depiction of a China that remains hidden to Western yeses even as it moves us with its piercing vision of the universal complications of love.”

19 NOTES FROM NOMINATING 2008: 1 It’s that time again!

2 Just as we recently heard on Sunday morning, it takes many drops to create a cup of water.

3 You and your drops of time and talent are essential to make up the “pool” of people who make RHCC a great and effective church for everyone.

4 It only takes a simple “YES” when asked.

5 And if you haven’t been asked, please let us know you are interested!!! Look for sign-ups in February or speak to a member of the Nominating Committee after reviewing the list of Boards and Committees enclosed in the center of the newsletter.

Linda Calcagni Hilaire Leavitt Jim Stevens Bruce Gengenbach Ron Robbins Gail Tine Jan LaCava Candi Smith Anita Watson

Fitness Yoga Experience the dynamic flow and challenge of yoga which builds strength, balance and flexibility for an overall fit and healthy body. Yoga moves are for everybody and plenty of modifications are offered.

Note: The class focus is beginner to beginner-intermediate.

Date: Beginning Saturdays in mid-February (8-week session) Time: 8:45am-9:45am Location: Rocky Hill Congregational Church 805 Old Main Street, Rocky Hill, CT ND 2 Floor – Room 27 Contact: To register, please contact Lynn at 436-4955 or 550-4660 Fee: $45.00 and please bring a water bottle and sticky mat

Come and experience for yourself the many benefits of yoga!

Wednesday Evening Bible Study – During the month of February, on Wednesday the 13th and Wednesday the 27th, the group will be reading and discussing “The Gospel of Thomas.” This gospel, believed to have been written by the disciple Thomas, circulated in the early days of the church, but was not included in the canon of our present day New Testament. It is in some ways very similar to, and in other ways very different from, the canonical gospels. Copies of Thomas are located on the table across from the Church Office. All are welcome to join the group, which meets at 6:00 p.m. in the Fiorilli Room.

The Saturday Men’s Bible Study Group is seeking additional members. If you are interested in studying scripture, discussing how it relates to our daily lives, engaging in open religious and spiritual discussions, the Men’s Bible Study Group may be just what you have been looking for. The group meets on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. in the church parlor. We also evaluate local coffee and donuts at each session. If you are interested and would like to attend one of our sessions, please feel free to contact Phil Swain, Bill Hoffman, Bill Timrud, Frank Vann or Jim Stevens – or just show up on the 2nd or 4th Saturday at 8:30 a.m.

The Stepney Guild will meet in the Fiorilli Room/Parlor on Wednesday, February 13th. They will begin at noon with a bring-your-own sandwich or salad lunch. Dessert and beverage will be provided.

The presenter that day will be Jonathan Lee, who will be talking about where and how Congregationalism came to be, and how the ways in which we worship and share life together today have been shaped by generations of tradition. We are part of the United Church of Christ, but our heritage is “congregational.” What does that mean? All are welcome!

Join the Women’s Fellowship as they make ABC Quilts on the third Tuesday of each month beginning at 7:00 p.m. All women are welcome. You may talk to Kim Batterson Biglow for more information. 21 From the Scholarship Committee Each year, our church awards college scholarships which are funded by investment returns from the Scholarship Endowment Funds. Applicants should be members of Rocky Hill Congregational Church, active members of one of its youth organizations, or active participants in the life of the church. Awards are based upon church and community involvement, demonstrated scholastic achievement, financial need, and the completion and submission of a scholarship application form. Scholarships may be awarded for up to four years of undergraduate studies. Recommendations on scholarship recipients are made by the Scholarship Committee, whose members are appointed by the Board of Trustees. This recommendation is then subject to the final approval of the Trustees.

Graduating high school seniors and returning college undergraduates who are seeking a church scholarship for the 2008-2009 academic year should obtain an application from the church office or from the web site, rhccucc.org and may be submitted electronically. Please complete and return it prior to April 15, 2008. Scholarship awards will be announced in June.

Scholarship Directory Available A directory of scholarships that are available to college-bound students in the 29-town Greater Hartford region is now available from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.

The Hartford Foundation expects to award over $800,000 to more than 300 students from the region next year. These scholarships, some of which are renewable, are awarded through 70 funds created by individuals, families and organizations.

Students can pick up a copy of the directory from the church office. They can also access it online at www.hfpg.org/scholarships, or call the Foundation to obtain a copy.

Hartford Foundation for Public Giving is the community foundation for the 29-town Capitol Region. For 80 years, it has built successful partnerships with donors and nonprofits to enhance the quality of life for people in the community. For more information about the Foundation, visit www.hfpg.org or call 548-1888.

22 Frank Roswell Fuller Scholarship Program

Frank Roswell Fuller was born in Hartford on August 23, 1873 and attended local public schools. He went to New York City at the turn of the century and commenced a long and successful career in the brokerage business. He later formed his own company at 40 Wall Street known as Fuller & Company, which operated from 1904 to 1920. When he retired he came to live in West Hartford Where he purchased several large farms in the northwest section of the town. He died on March 1, 1957. Mr. Fuller was always interested in helping “needy, deserving” students obtain the education that he had not been able to enjoy himself. His will, probated in the Probate Court for District of Hartford, established a substantial scholarship fund.

Eligibility Requirements are:

1. Able to demonstrate financial need (determined by filing the FAFSA) 2. Currently in your senior year at a high school located within Hartford County 3. Maintaining an average 70 or better (or its equivalent) 4. A member of the UCC/Congregational Church and “professed to be of the Congregational faith” 5. Planning to attend a fully accredited four-year college as a candidate for a baccalaureate degree.

If you meet the eligibility requirements of the Fuller Scholarship Fund, you may request an application packet by writing to:

Frank Roswell Fuller Scholarship Fund c/o Trinity College Financial Aid Office 300 Summit Street Hartford, CT 06106-3100 Or email: [email protected]

There are also application packets in the church office.

The deadline for requesting the application packet is March 1. The deadline for submitting your application and other documents is May 15th. This scholarship is renewable for succeeding years if student continues to meet criteria.

“Let Your Light Shine” 2008 Daily Bible Reading Guide Now available in the Narthex and the table across from the office. These are published by the American Bible Society.

Snowy Sundays

In the event of winter weather on a Sunday morning, our first priority is to ensure the safety of church members. On December 16th the snow and ice was a real danger, and so worship was cancelled for the day. If such a storm happens again, please know a system is in place to make as many of our members and friends aware as possible. If and when worship is cancelled, notice will be posted on Channel 3 WFSB-TV and on the church website (www.rhccucc.org), and the voice mail greeting on the church phone will be updated with the cancellation if you choose to phone the main number. Additionally, an email and phone tree will alert church leaders to the same information. It takes a real storm to disrupt our worship, but if that happens, we want to be ready.

As the Volunteer/Coordinator for the CAC I am pleading for volunteers. WE NEED God’s YOUR HELP!! I’m currently in contact with Family Life Education (FLE), Our calling Piece of the Pie, and MI CASA. FLE was originated as Family Life Ministries by the you! CAC in 1986.

Some of these agencies need tutors, babysitters, mentors, and tasks such as light painting or just planting a flower garden. Also, being a friend to a senior. We would greatly appreciate any help you could lend to us. Please contact me at home (257-8177) or at the CAC (527-9860).—Faithfully Rich Pawlich-Pagliccio 24

Chapin Hall Renovation Update January 16, 2008

Dear Friends,

As I write this, the project architect and engineers continue to work with the Town of Rocky Hill Building Department and Fire Marshall to satisfy some reasonable items before the building permit is issued and construction can commence. The items that needed to be addressed over the last couple of weeks have involved handicap accessibility in the kitchen (now satisfied), and additional information about the ventless cooking hood and fire sprinkler system layout. No show-stoppers, however.

In the meantime, our committee gathered on December 18, January 3 and January 11—and two of these meetings have included our contractor and architect. We’ve covered a lot of ground: lighting selection, door types and electrical considerations. We’ve also reviewed drawings of the finished wall coverings (wainscoting, trim, etc.). And, we’re working with the Trustees to help plan upgrades to the church’s audio system.

Finally, a word of thanks to the nearly 50 people that participated in the “Chapin Hall Demolition Tours,” held after worship on December 30 and January 6. It was great fun to show-off the old structure, now exposed since the ceiling has been removed. You can see the bottom of old timbers that rise up into the sanctuary columns. It is a grand old building!

Faithfully,

Bob Inderbitzen

Chapin Hall Renovation Committee: Mark Biglow, Neal Cox, Dave Hawkins, Marsha Hoffman, Bob Inderbitzen (Chair), Nancy Rolfe, Dick Webster, and Lynn Webster

Dave Hall regularly posts these updates to the church web site: www.rhccucc.org

25 Every Sunday, the coffee served after our church service supports The United Church of Christ Coffee Project. On third Sundays of the month the Inreach Committee has available for purchase in the Parlor: Gourmet coffee ($6.25/each), Tea ($3/box), Hot cocoa mix ($5/can)

Please consider making all of your coffee and tea purchases at church! And, offer a donation for the cup of coffee you enjoy every Sunday. Now that’s really “good to the last drop!”

Rocky Hill Park and Recreation Youth Theatre Will perform at RH High School

“Once Upon a Lilypad” and “Godspell”

Saturday, February 9, 2008 @ 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, February 10, 2008 @ 2:00 p.m.

$8.00 adults / $6.00 seniors and students Godspell Junior boasts a string of recognizable songs, led by the international hit, "Day By Day." Based on the Godspell of St. Mathew, Godspell Junior is a celebration of the life and teachings of Christ.

This best loved musical by three-time Academy Award-winner Stephen Schwartz is now available in a Junior version! Drawing from various theatrical traditions, Godspell Junior is a groundbreaking and unique reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love.

These talented young people of the Rocky Hill community worked very hard with their director, producer and advisors to present a quality production for your enjoyment. Your support will be very much appreciated!

Food Bank – February 3. Please continue your efforts in offering the donation of non-perishable food items on the first Sunday of each month. We thank Bill McKinney for his prompt response in delivering our donations.

Asylum Hill Congregational Church – Joey DeFrancesco, Jazz Organ – February 8th at 8:00 p.m. – The price is $20 advance/$25 at the door. Regarded as the baddest B-3 burner in the business, Joey D combines monstrous chops with a flair for showmanship. Also at Asylum Hill Congregational Church – Voce Chamber Artists – Sarah Metcalf, soprano, and Tom Cooke, clarinet, are joined by pianist Kathleen Bartkowski in a program featuring works of Brahms, Schubert, and Spohr. February 17th at 4:00 p.m. Asylum Hill is located at 814 Asylum Ave., Hartford. Tickets $15 / Limited seating

The Amistad Center for Art & Culture at the Wadsworth Atheneum is presenting “Post-Civil Rights Agenda: From Brown v. Board to Hip Hop” on Saturday, February 9 at 3pm. This program is FREE to the public. Join Dr. Patricia Banks, Asst. Prof. of Sociology at Mt. Holyoke College, Dr. Shayla Nunnally, Asst Prof. of Political Science & African American Studies at the University of CT, historian and curator Dr. Wm. Frank Mitchell, and others for a community conversation. Reflect on and Discuss our progress, forty years after King’s assassination. ATTN: Teens, College Students, Young Professionals and Adults of all ages. Be part of this dynamic dialogue! Snow date is February 16th at 3pm. For more information call 860 838-4133 and check www.wadsworthatheneum.org for the latest parking info.

The New England Chamber Choir presents “High Notes and High Tea XIV and the Scarlatti Boys at Christ Lutheran Church, 300 Washington St., Middletown on Sunday, February 17th at 4:00 p.m. Works include Domenico Scarlatti’s Sonata in G, K169; Alessandro Scarlatti’s Se Florindo e fedele & Exultate Deo.

First Church of Christ – Colonial Concert at 250 Main St., Wethersfield – Sunday, February 17th at 4:00 p.m. Music by Billings, Handel, Pachelbel.

27 ROCKY HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH Non-Profit 805 Old Main Street, Rocky Hill CT 06067 U.S. POSTAGE Telephone # 860 529-4167 PAID Rocky Hill, CT ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED TIME VALUE MAIL Permit #7 Mailed January 25, 2008

March articles are due February 15

Jesus didn’t turn people away. Neither do we. The United Church of Christ: No matter who you are, Or where you are on life’s journey… You’re welcome here.

Middletown’s Holiday Roller Skating Rink February 3rd 2:00 – 4:00pm Following our Kid Friendly Lenten Series Grades 6th through 12th Admission: 11 and under $5.00 / 12 and up $6.00 Skate Rental – $2.00 / Rollerblades – $4.00 Join us for lots of fun and fellowship! Please call Stacie Damiana at 529-4167 x204 or email to [email protected]