Commack United Methodist Church 486 Townline Road Commack, NY 11725-2026 - (631) 499-7310

Web Site: http://www.commack-umc.org Emails: [email protected] :[email protected]

CELEBRATING 225 YEARS OF CHRISTIAN SERVICE IN COMMACK 1783-2008 Rev. Dr. John E. Carrington, Pastor 631.499.4770 Carolyn Gehlbach, Editor JUNE 2008

Open Hearts

Open Minds

Open Doors

morning I asked persons to join me in raising $2,000 and to date we have raised $2,583. It reminded me that sometimes God gives us more than we ask for. The next Sunday I asked our people to respond to the United Methodist Committee on Relief to help the people of Myanmar and we have collected $724.00. The following week you gave $369.00 to help in China. I am proud of the way that you have generously responded to human need. We received the seven members of our confirmation class into full membership in May also. I appreciated the opportunity that I had to prepare them for full membership and for the privilege of getting to know them. They are all bright teenagers and we are fortunate to have them. Last Sunday afternoon I went to the First Methodist Church of Flushing to attend the wedding of Rev. Austin Park and his bride. The church was filled with more than 500 hundred persons, including 150 teenagers who sang during the ceremony and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Austin Park is the pastor of our Long Island Korean United Methodist Church. It was one of the best wedding ceremonies and celebrations that I can remember attending. May was the month that the trustees hired a firm to get rid of the mold in the parsonage cellar and to take steps to prevent it from returning. It looks better and it smells better. I began the process of moving out of the parsonage and in a few days the parsonage will be empty and the trustees can continue to prepare the house for the new pastor and her family. She will begin moving in some of her things in June.

Word from the Pastor Let me share some of my thoughts about May 2008 here at Commack. I discovered the row of flowering trees in front of church property on Townline Road and a magnificent flowering tree in front of the parsonage. I can understand why so many of our members are long time residents of this beautiful community. I was pleasantly amazed how we responded to the request to host the Long Island West District Conference and how a small committee handled every detail from breakfast to a farewell luncheon for our interim district superintendent and my friend, Richard J. Rice. The first person to volunteer to help was Gerhard Spory, our church chef. He made excellent arrangements with a caterer and then he told me that he and Patricia would be in Hawaii when we feed the one hundred district conference members. The committee told me that I did not have worry about a thing because they could handle it. They were right. The district has a project this year to raise $75,000 for Habitat so that a home can be renovated for a deserving woman and her children. One Sunday

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At the last meeting of the Administrative Board, Al Frick met with me privately to inform me that he has to resign as chair of the board. This was not one of the good things that happened in May. I understood his reason and thanked him for his leadership during this year that I have been here. One of the good things that happened came when Tom Mazzola said that he believed that we can begin making plans to make the church more accessible and that a building committee should be named. He said that a building committee is needed because the trustees are doing all that they can handle now. I enjoyed preaching and worshiping in the Old Chapel last Sunday. Some one said to me, following the sermon, that I did not have to ask anyone to move to the front. We had a full church, even had three persons sitting in the gallery. It is the oldest church that I have ever preached in. John Muller has given me a model of the Old Chapel and I am grateful to him for his thoughtfulness. This is a May that I will always remember and be thankful to God and the members of my Commack Church.

Within five hours of the earthquake, the Amity Foundation, a Chinese social service Organization and partner of our General Board of Global ministries, had sent staff to initiate relief efforts. According to an UMCOR news update, Amity is working to provide food for about 16,000 people and will distribute 8,000 trarpaulins and quilts – with specific focus on the severely affected provinces of Gansu, Sha’anxi and Sichuan. Longterm recovery plans include the rebuilding of 600 homes, 10 schools and five clinics, as well as the rehabilitation of destroyed water and irrigation systems. The Rev. Yuan Shiguo, general secretary of the Sichuan Christian Council, reportred that many churches have been destroyed and members of the Christian community hurt in the earthquake. I would like to invite all of you to keep praying for our churches, Christians, and our people, said Rev. Shiguo.

John E. Carrington

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Indeed, let us pray for our brother and sister Christians in China and for all the Chinese people and their government, and particularly for those who are suffering directly from the effects of the earthquake. Let us, also, respond with our generous financial gifts.

The Episcopal Office New York Annual Conference The United Methodist Church May 23, 2008

Your church’s offering may be submitted with your regular monthly shared ministry report or separately to our Conference Treasurer, Mr. Ernest Swiggett. The Advance number is #982450, International Disaster Response, China Earthquake. As always, one hundred percent of our contributions will go directly to make a difference in the lives of the people of China.

Dear United Methodists of the New York Annual Conference; Greeting in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Once again, a part of God’s beloved earth has been ravaged by natural Disaster. The May 12 earthquake near Chengdu China has resulted in the deaths of more than 41,000 persons. More than 32,000 people are still missing and 275,000 are Injured. Some five million are homeless. Gratefully, once again, on our behalf UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) is finding ways to share Christ’s love with those in need.

Your Partner in Hope,

Jeremiah J. Park

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As a member of the Annual Conference I want to say how proud I was that our church contributed to last years “Nothing But Nets Youth Campaign.”

A WORD FROM Rev. Lynda Bates-Stepe We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. ~Romans 8:28 NRSV Sometimes God’s will is difficult to discern. Sometimes we don’t understand the purpose God has for us. Sometimes God doesn’t work as quickly or obviously as we would like. But when it does work, when God’s will and purpose become clear to us… wow!

18,400 families received nets to protect them against Malaria just from our Conference. I encourage everyone to support our youth in this years campaign to raise funds to purchase animals for two arks. An ark full of animals cost about $5,000.00. I think Bishop Park will be pleasantly surprised by the enthusiasm of our district’s youth!

That’s what my appointment to Commack feels like. It feels like this is right and there is a purpose God has for us. It is as if it was meant to be, as if this is the place and the time God had in mind. It is a great way to start out.

Ginny Eichenauer ____________________________________ 225 YEARS OF CHRISTIAN SERVICE Long Island News: The Commack Methodist Church was established in 1783 – We are celebrating 225 years of Christian Service this year.

I’m looking forward to my work with you and our ministry together. It is a little awesome to be stepping into 225 years of service and discipleship in the name of Christ. But I’m grateful that we are about to share the journey and continue that service together. All I can say is… wow! And thanks be to God!

In 1783 Long Island was liberated from British Occupation. While the British soldiers who had occupied New York City for the duration of the Revolutionary War were evacuated on November 25, 1783, it wasn’t until December 4, 1783 that Long Island was liberated. This ended the island’s Revolutionary War occupation – the longest of any place within the 13 colonies. In addition to the soldiers traveling back to England on British ships, many Loyalists were also anxious to leave. In fact so many fled that there were not enough ships to transport everyone and a large group of soldiers who had been stationed on Long Island were forced to remain for an additional nine days of occupation. At the same time, an estimated 5,000 Long Island patriots who had sought refuge in Connecticut during the war straggled home, often finding that their homes were destroyed, their farm animals were gone, and their trees were cut down.

See you in July! Peace,

Rev. Lynda ______________________________

Our thanks to all of the silent workers at CUMC who do things and are not always acknowledged. The newly added shelving in the Thrift Shoppe, the newly built shelf in the Church office. The hanging of curtains in the Pastor’s office and the cleaning out of the Boiler Room. The on-going gardening, weeding and picking up branches after wind storms. These silent partners continue to be busy around all of the church buildings and property.

Cynthia Blair Newsday

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UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

KICKOFF EVENT CELEBRATING OUR 225th ANNIVERSARY Celebrate these important events in the life of our beloved church

Last month, Twelve guests from Pilgrim State Hospital enjoyed food and fellowship with six members of the UMW and two CUMC men.

Immediately following church service June 15th Strawberry Festival 10:15am -1:15pm, This event is hosted with our Sister Korean United Methodist Church. There will be a sign – up sheet in the hallway. Bring your cameras! Marge Wright ___________________________ A MISSION MOMENT "We are celebrating a new United Methodist Church in Thailand. The church building is located directly across from a dalaat, or outdoor market. The sanctuary was overflowing with people sitting outside under the canopy watching as ribbons were cut releasing clusters of balloons. The new pastor gave a brief history of how the Bowin United Methodist Church came into being. He was overcome with emotion and gave praise to the Lord. By God's grace we're changing how history will be written here in Thailand." Sherri & Mike Morrissey, Missionaries, Thailand

Everyone had a great sing a long and the extra goodies were packed up to return to the hospital with our guests. Thanks to Marge Wright, Martha Lockhart and Nancy Gamby for the key roles they played for this event. Thank you to all for the donations to our Mother's Day booklets and to Cyndi Pinkham for assembling and printing. There are extra copies on the back table if you missed receiving one. Our June meeting is on the 12th at 7:30 PM. Matilda Gollatz will present the program "God's Song in God's Mission." The program explores biblical, theological and Wesleyan understandings of mission and how they are expressed in mission hymns. Doris Hoffmann will serve as hostess for the evening.

Mission Prayer Focus: Bowin United Methodist Church, Thailand Asia Methodist Youth Network Myanmar & the World Food Program China Earthquake Relief =================================

At the meeting, we will also assemble the hygiene kits for the homeless. The kits are used for quick 'clean-ups' in available rest rooms. Your donations, given to any UMW member, would be appreciated. Needed are: quart-size zip lock bags travel size soaps travel size toothpaste toothbrushes with covers washcloths (not towels) Band-Aids All women are invited to attend. If transportation is needed please call Nancy Gamby, UMW President, and she will make arrangements.

MONTH OF JUNE BIRTHDAYS BIRTHDAY GREETINGS

Mike Hervey Joan Nehlsen Barbara Devine

Mel Walker Florence Brooks Carol Fricke Alec Rysdek Doris Hoffmann Elizabeth Waidelich

NOTE: if you don't see your birthday listed, please let me know. The church does not keep a record of your birth. Some time ago, I polled our congregation and requested their birth months for this greetings list. Thank you, Kathy Muller

********************************* Members of the Lydia Circle will meet every Wednesday at 10:30 in the Parlor. All are invited.

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NURTURE AND EVANGELISM

TUESDAY FAIR WORKSHOP We meet from 10-1, every Tuesday, in room # 9 of the Education Building. Santa pillows, Christmas tree ornaments, embroideries, cloth dolls, gift tags and flowered pens are among the items currently in progress. ==================================

Family Retreat --- It seems like old news now, but who could not mention the absolutely full + 1 house! We had lots of teenagers and 4 younger ones and we were surprised at how well-behaved they all were.

ANNUAL FALL FAIR REMINDER Our annual fair will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2008 from 10-3. I know the Tuesday and Friday workshop ladies are busily sewing, knitting and crafting, as well as those who craft at home. If you plan to make jams, jellies or preserves from your summer/fall harvest, I hope you will save a jar or two to donate to the fair. We plan to have our usual Country Kitchen, Korean Food Table, Bake Table and White Elephant in addition to the Boutique. So pull out and review your favorite recipes and save a few unique white elephants! Additional helpers are needed to man the kitchen and booths, if you are willing to assist please see me. Thanks, John Muller

Oh, Wait....sort of forgot the ‘roof incident”!! We had a great bonfire and learned some new things. For one birthdays are pagan. For two, Galatians 5, Verse 22 is about fruits of the spirit. All 26 of us doing a military cadence of that fact sitting in the sun in a circle of camaraderie is not soon forgotten!! 225th Anniversary Celebration --We are having fun putting together the Saturday, September 27th, 10-4, part of our church’s celebration week-end. It will be a fun and joyous day. Everything will be free. Please put it on your “MUST GO” list.

Baseball Psalm

We’re having a bar-be-que, cotton candy, ice cream cart, a band, a moon bounce, organ mini-concerts, tours of our chapel and sanctuary, a rope bridge and perhaps some demonstrations from the scouts. All this also will be an outreach to the surrounding community to “Come and See” who we are and what we are about.

_______The

Lord is my Manager; I shall not quit. He maketh me to· run in green outfields, and guideth me along straight basepaths. He restoreth my place in the Heavenly lineup; He leadeth me in reading life's signals for His game’s sake. Even though I walk up to a volley of devilish pitches, I will fear no strikeout, for Thou art with me. Thou dost promise me a bonus in the presence of my opponents. Thou anointest my sore spots with balm; my locker runneth over. Surely my statistics will be forgiven me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the Eternal Hall of Fame forever.

Backyard breakfasts – July and August. Nothing definite yet, but we’ll keep you posted. Ginny Eichenauer ********************************* NEW MEMBERSHIP We rejoice with Dagmar Mackay, who transfers her membership to the Commack United Methodist Church from the First Presbyterian Church of Greenlawn. She is also a former member of the United Methodist Church in Sea Cliff, Long Island.

-- found in “The Joyful Noiseletter"

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UPDATE ON on previous member CUMC Jack Roeber

GRADUATION PUMPKIN PATCH NURSERY June 4 9:30 AM Fellowship Hall and June 20 9:30 AM PPDN + 11:30 AM Fellowship Hall ********************************* MORE IMPORTANT DATES to REMEMBER SATURDAY, June 28th, 2008 – 6:00 PM Farewell Covered Dish Supper Fellowship Hall – Honoring our beloved Interim Pastor, John Carrington.

Jack had a stroke just before Christmas 2006. He was paralyzed and could not speak as a result. Several post cards from Sandy (Mrs. Roeber) have told of a difficult year. "We were able to take Jack to Easter dinner at a nearby restaurant. He is still in a wheelchair but beginning to use a walker and to make more use of his right hand. Slow progress, but progress. Son Ken and family and daughter Danielle visit often.” Mary Kopf _____________________________________ THRIFT SHOPPE News June is the last month before summer vacation. All clothing is at half price!!

SUNDAY, July 6th 2008 – Welcoming Reception for our new Pastor Lynda BatesStepe. SATURDAY, September 27, 2008 Homecoming Fair Outdoor Barbeque–and Chapel Open House

The Thrift Shoppe will be open the first and third Saturday in June, July and August. This is a good time for church members to stop in and see how the shop operates. We can always use new volunteers, even for an hour or two. Call Marge Wright to add your name to the fall schedule.

SUNDAY, September 28 – Homecoming Joint Service Our brothers and sisters of the Korean Methodist Church will be joining us for these celebrations. Reception to follow immediately after Homecoming Service. Guest Speakers Sept. 28 at 3:00 PM Marge Wright ********************************* June 15 Fathers Day Booklet June 15 Strawberry Festival following Worship Service

Look for news of our church yard sale on July 26th, 2008 - 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Anne & Patti _________________________________ New Saturday Hours....An extra shopping day has been added... We will now be open 2 Saturdays per month

July 26th Saturday, 10:00AM– 3:00 PM Community Yard Sale For information call 499-7310 August

Questions...call 631-499-7310. Thrift Shoppe Hours for June Are 10:00 AM–4:00 PM Tuesday, Friday and The First & Third Saturday

Saturday, 10:00AM– 3:00 PM 12th Annual Craft & Gift Fair For information call 499-7310 Spaces are $30. Vendors Wanted

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September19-21 UMW Retreat Quinipet October 11th – Annual Fair 6

Celebration Party for Confirmands On Sunday May 18 our church rejoiced with those persons who have already been baptized as members of the Christian faith when they could not answer for themselves. They have now been instructed in the Christian faith and took their own vows: they are: Christopher Bagno, Kimberly Clendenning, Stephanie Lynagh, Sean Kessler, Sarah Mackay, Lee Manchio, and Jake Reddo We welcome them into full membership of our church. A coffee hour with cake celebration was held after the service where the congregation had an opportunity to

Opportunities to Serve

Contacts can be made through the church office at 631-499-7310 or via email to [email protected] Wanted: Responsible Teens and Adults for media support. Involves operating church sound equipment, lighting, and other production. No experience necessary. Contact Mike Hervey Wanted: Volunteers on call for church bulk mailings. No experience necessary. Contact Carolyn Gehlbach Wanted: Volunteer “Key Person” to identify miscellaneous church keys.

congratulate the Confirmands, immediately

following the Confirmation Service. A Celebration was held in the Fellowship Hall from 4:00 to 8:00 PM for all of the Confirmands’ families and friends. The party included dinner followed by dancing with a DJ. *********************************

Wanted: Volunteer for filing church and choir music. Can work at your own pace. Contact Nancy Gamby Wanted: Bell Choir needs members. Wednesday 6:30 pm rehearsal. Ability to read music is nice but not required. Contact Dotty Arola Wanted: Coffee Hour Hosts and Hostesses. See Sign up Chart in the Parlor

Church Tables and Chairs. Identifying a Stroke!!! STR Thank God for the sense to remember the “3” Steps..are.... S *Ask the individual to SMILE T * Ask the person to TALK, to speak a simple sentence. (Coherently)

The borrowing of these items must be signed out with the church office. There are times when we have 2 or 3 events in the Fellowship Hall during one weekend, and need to know where our tables are. All borrowed items should be returned as soon as possible.

i.e...It is sunny out today)

R* Ask him or her to Raise Both ARMS.

We originally had 23 stackable chairs donated to our parlor. For the past few months 8 chairs have been missing. If you have borrowed them, please return them as soon as possible. These chairs are NOT to be borrowed!. It you have any in your home that you forgot to return, please do so as soon as possible.

Note: Another ‘sign’ of a stroke is this: Ask the person to ‘stick’ out their tongue. If the tongue is crooked, it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke. If he or she has trouble with any one of these tasks, call 911, describe the symptoms to the dispatcher. 7