Checking the Course

Peoples United Methodist Church
Checking the Course
All members and friends of Peoples were invited to participate in an Intreat to investigate the course that we might see ourselves on as a church family over the next year. 18 folks participated in some aspect of the day’s program. The event got under way as 9 folks trekked to Thomas Knight Park to be led in worship by Pastor Gwyneth Arrison. Gwyneth’s message encouraged all of us to try and see our "vision" as if it were through "God’s Eyes." She also asked to consider as we approached the day the following questions:
What is the dream you personally dream for Peoples?
What would it look like to live as God’s family?
What is God’s vision for calling Peoples to serve in this community?
What is God’s vision for you in bringing your dreams and others of the church to reality?
The reader of this article should ponder these four questions and respond perhaps to the pastors or the leader of the Church Council or to one of the other significant entities of church leadership so that you to might be heard.
When we arrived back at the church, another 9 folks, including Chris Ward and Rosemary Herd who had stayed at the church and prepared coffee and snacks. When it was time to begin the First Watch, Art Tordoff reiterated the questions that Gwyneth had earlier raised to everyone present for the Intreat. He also used devotion from The Upper Room from August 4 that was appropriate to the theme of the day. The reading used the naval blessing, wishing for " fair winds and a following sea" for the days events as well as the year ahead for Peoples church. While we originally would have broken the group into six groups it was decided to use three themes that were concerned with the three areas that those present felt were most in need of work at Peoples. The three groups were concerned with Worship, Fellowship and the combination Evangelism/Outreach.
Those three group areas "spiritstormed" a number of ideas some of which were related to work undone since the last intreat, 2 years ago, and some ideas were quite new. Eventually it was hoped that everyone would eventually settle on one common theme to work in through all of the present work areas: Worship, Discipleship, Fellowship, Ministry/Evangelism, Mission/Outreach and Administration.
During the Second Watch each group was able to narrow their lists down and settle into a more manageble, measurable, and accountable program. After lunch it was expected that somehow from this smaller listing the larger group might be able to settle on one general theme. In the end those who were there at the end of the program and after a great deal of discussion related to each it was felt that through the Council and the various committees mentioned above that all of the final proposals could be incorporated in the coming year’s church life.
The discussion among those who attended could have gone on beyond the time restraints of the day, but there is always a point beyond which discussion is no longer effective. Those that this reporter talked to were amazed, in some cases, to learn what was involved under each of the topics. An appreciation for what goes on and needs to be done was gained by all who were present. The feeling of family was very much present and felt by those in attendance.
While some of the programs for the coming year will come from "Checking the Course" those in attendance want all members and friends of the church to be informed. We also encourage those who could not be in attendance to find out and participate and help to implement necessary change and activity. You will find a more detail summarization of the actual proposals in another article prepared for that purpose.

Celebrating a New Member

Carol Bruneau joined the congregation of Peoples United Methodist Church on August 12. She grew up in Winthrop , Maine, very much part of the United Methodist Church there until she married and attended her husband's church. She had been thinking about coming back to the Methodist Church for a while and Earle invited her to represent the Lions Club at Peoples first Community Fair in 2006. Carol says, "I told him I had gone to the Methodist Church and he invited me to come to Peoples and both Gwyneth and Jamie invited me to attend a Sunday service also. Many people here have made me feel very welcome and attending church in the faith I grew up in is such joy to me."

Carol, we welcome you as part of the Peoples family!

August Anniversaries and Birthdays

See the new link to the right with birthdays and anniversaries listed for the whole year, thanks to Marlene Tordoff!

Bowling Party Great Fun!

We had 18 bowlers plus a few other observers, at Yankee Lanes after church on July 8. Yankee Lanes opened up four lanes for us, two with bumpers for the kids, all expenses paid as a special promotion. We could tell it was going to be a special time when we entered the names on one of the scoring machines (no more writing scores on your own card - everything is computerized!) the initials spelled SEEK!

Curtis Coughlin was the high-score with 129. Mallory and Alisha Wade bowled, as did all of the youth who attended. The biggest miracle of the day, however, was Elaine Rogers throwing the ball down the alley! Who would have thought she had just been released from rehab?!

Everyone had a fun time. That's part of what it means to fellowship as the body of Christ.

Strawberry Yard Sale Grand Success

Article submitted by Susan Angell by email
Photo: Betty Splettstoeser working at the fair

I have not had so much fun in ages. Our garage sale was dynamic and the food from the kitchen: strawberry shortcake, hot dogs, chips, soda, punch, etc. was soooooooooooooo good. The food just flowed out under the direction of Chris Bowker and Chris Ward. Hand picked strawberries (by Chris B) and hulled the night before by Chris B and Janice Huelin. That night there were tons of people bringing stuff in, putting stuff on tables, pricing, etc. and it was crazy.

During the sale I was assisted in cashiering by Joanne Kamilewicz who was able to add all those figures in her head and I never even had to use my calculator. Barb, Betty, Kathy, Doreen, Becky G and Becky S and many others floated throughout the hall assisting in pricing and customer service. Carol Bruneau was dynamite on clothing and shoes. Mary Ann Wheeler sold an unprecedented $100 plus just on books.

Then the young, the strong, the brawny, men and women, packed up that hall, broke down the tables and packed up and hauled off the unsold items in about 45 minutes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Our yard sale/strawberry festival is always the best in town but our unprecedented success this year has to be attributed to publicity. We had advertised in just about every local paper. The volunteers that helped clean up the hall after the sale was the frosting on the cake.

OUR NET SALES, WITH SOME TABS STILL TO COME IN, WAS: $1334.54 (Last year around $800)

Chug-a-Chug-a-Choo-Choo

The Peoples Moms Group took a fun ride on the Narrow Gauge Railroad in Portland this week. Moms and kids all had a great time. The kids got to blow the train whistle, and we also spent some time at the train museum.

The children quickly gained their "train legs" and were admiring the view of Casco Bay along the way.

The moms group meets weekly on Tuesdays. During the summer months the group is hosting outings to parks and field trips in order to accomodate the school-aged children. Please contact Pastor Gwyneth for further information. The following is the tentative summer schedule:

July 3 Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad in Portland (field trip)
July 10 Bug Light - bring a kite to fly
July 17 Fort Williams playground
July 24 Deering Oaks playground
July 31 Cancelled
Aug 7 Eastern Promenade Playground (kite flying too)
Aug 14 Mackworth Island (field trip - explore beach and walking trail)
Aug 21 Kettle Cove Beach
Aug 28 Payson Park

Paul Colman Concert

A group from Peoples attended the Paul Colman Concert, which was sponsored by the Greater Portland Christian School. The combination of Paul's Australian accent, humor, musical talent, and authentic witness made for a very uplifting evening. The opening group for Paul was The Wrecking. I got the sense that our folks enjoyed Paul Colman more because you could actually understand the lyrics! But The Wrecking also was a very talented group, and showed a moving video on the Christian mission organization they support called International Justice Mission which works toward world justice by freeing people who have been forced into slavery, stopping forced prostituion of children, seeking fair and timely trial for prisoners and other ways in which injustice occurs across our globe.

Bowling Vs Golfing

Email submitted by Susan Angell

CHURCH BOWLING PARTY AT YANKEE LANES Sunday, July 8 1-3 PM
Please RSVP to the pastors at 799-6814 or info@peoplesumc.com so they know how many lanes we need.
All welcome!

What is the difference between golfing and bowling?
The balls are a little bigger in bowling.
With bowling, no clubs are involved. Just the word club is kind of violent, isn't it.
Golf requires a lot of walking out doors whereas with bowling you can play inside, in air conditioning and sit down when you want to.
With bowling food is readily available but with golf, unless you carry a back pack, you have play until you get to the club house.
With bowling you don't have to duck if someone yells "Fore".
With bowling, children are welcome.
Laughter, humiliation or fudging the truth is equal in both sports.

So, if you want to have fun, inside, with food, with children, with nice adults, join the bowling party.

Mark your calendars – August Planning Retreat

On Saturday, August 25, the Discipleship Committee is sponsoring an all-church planning retreat called, “Correcting the Course.” Many attended a similar retreat in August 2005, “Righting the Ship” during which we discussed ways in which to bring balance to the main areas of our mission as a church: Discipleship, Missions, Evangelism, Fellowship and Worship. Goals were set for each area, and many of these goals have been met! We need to communicate the successes achieved, evaluate our progress, and determine significant directions effecting our future course.
The purpose of “Correcting the Course” will be to evaluate the 2005 goals we set in light of progress made, reevaluate and revise those goals and set directions with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We will discuss ideas for improving the evaluation process as we sail forward. We,with the Lord as our navigator will be setting the vision for Peoples Church for the next year or so to help us reach and disciple more people for Jesus Christ.

We hope everyone will come on out!

Celebration Through the Eyes of an Angell

An email by Susan Angell

Man oh man, do we Methodists know how to throw a party. First there was the guest book to sign, then the name tags to make out and don and then the camera gal, Kathy Brann took your picture. George Murray, Karen Darling's son, video taped all the people and activity. This was done so that Hillie, who is still in the hospital, could enjoy seeing party activities at a later time. The people that organized this affair certainly knew what they were doing.
Malcolm was set up in a nice easy chair with chairs around for people to sit and talk with him. So like a mini living room.
Testimonies to Malcolm were given by words from Rev. William Beddie, Tom Nelson, Art Tordoff, Rosemary Herd, Ray Cornilis, the organist for Merrill Auditorium and Pastor Jamie. Malcolm spoke about how his music ministry would not be possible without his wonderful wife, Hillie.
Our talented Betty Smith presented Malcolm with a blanket knitted by her with all the words of the traditional Easter hymn, The Palms. What a thoughtful gift.
Around the room tables were set up with table cloths, flowers and musical notes confetti. There was a wonderful big sheet cake from Hannafords, gifted by UMW and designed by Karen Darling ...a picture of Malcolm at the organ, musical notes and key board in frosting, and a lovely message. There was a table groaning with sweets of every kind made by tons of people. Workers in the kitchen, directed by Brad, buzzed around with activity. "Methodist Punch" was served. The thing that non Methodist people don't know, is this punch is lethal. It tastes absolutely yummy but it makes you thirsty and you want more. With 2 or 3 glasses of the stuff and lots of the sweets, you can get a sugar high quickly and act weird in about 15 minutes after intake. This makes children very active and adults silly. Some of us never learn and continue to over indulge.
Betsy Morrison took home all the cards and mementos given and will make a memory book for Hillie and Malcolm. Very thoughtful.
This open house was attended by lots of people that have enjoyed Malcolm's music over the years and plenty of old good friends. People's people were there too and everyone had a grand time. I think Malcolm knows how much we all love and appreciate him, had a good time and was honored by this party. I know I had fun.

Celebrating 67 Years on the Bench

Dr. Malcolm Cass was the guest of honor at a reception at Peoples on Sunday, June 24, 2007 for 67 years of ministry as Music Director, playing organ and directing the choir. Many attended, old friends and new.

There was plenty of food, including a beautiful cake with music notes and an icing photo of Malcolm at the organ. Several were invited to speak about what Malcolm’s ministry has meant to them. We heard praises for his incredible talent, and dedication not only to music but to caring for the instrument itself. Tom Nelson spoke of the incredible model Malcolm has been for him and so many others. Bill Beddie, former pastor at Peoples spoke about coming into to meet Malcolm for the first time to begin developing a friendship: “It took about 15 minutes.”

Malcolm spoke not about his musical talent, but how his ministry would not have been possible without his soul mate, Hillie. The reception was videotaped for Hillie, who is at Mercy Hospital recovering from a stroke. Pastor Jamie spoke about how Malcolm and Hillie’s team ministry as a “pastoral couple” has been a wonderful role model for him and Gwyneth. He also spoke about their continued active participation in Bible studies, an example to us all that we should always be students of the Bible no matter our age or Christian maturity.

It was announced that the church is dedicating the organ in honor of Dr. Malcolm Cass so it can now be named the “Cass Organ.” A plaque will be displayed either on the organ or somewhere else in the church where it can be easily viewed. In addition, Rosemary Herd announced a scholarship in his name for students studying music. And finally, Betty Smith presented Malcolm and Hillie with a blanket she made with the words of The Palms stitched into the pattern!

Malcolm and Hillie, your church loves you, and holds you in prayer as you approach retirement in August. In the end, there is always the possibility of new beginnings because of the resurrection of our Savior. We are eager to see what new ways the Lord will minister through you!

Demonstrating in Washington DC

If one person does not have the right to challenge his detention, then no one does. After all, if you are mistakenly taken as that person, you would not have the right to challenge that mistake in court. Further, we have been using torture and extreme rendition on people who have never been tried or perhaps even know why they were arrested. This is why I (Jamie) answered an announcement from the Maine council of Churches to go to DC for a rally and lobbying to restore basic civil rights lost in a hastily crafted Millitary Commissions Act last year.

I got on the bus in Portland on Monday night. Tuesday morning we arrived in DC, took some training and then attended an energetic rally. I was surprised to find that the Christian speaker at this event was my own theology professor from Asbury Seminary, Prof. Chuck Gutenson. There were a variety of conservative and liberal speakers including Sister Diana Ortiz who had suffered torture and sexual abuse in a prison in Guatamala. All new that involvement in permanent detention and torture was completely abhorent to our nations’s basic principals. Further, it is abhorant for us to practice such sin in the name of fear.

Following the rally, we went to speak to our congressional delegation. Because of my past political activity, I was asked to lead of the delegation introducing our cause to Senator Snow’s office and then Senator Collins herself. Each of them were considering restoring these rights and it was well worth our time to speak with them as they were not yet looking at a full restoration. We then walked across to the House offices where we met with Representatives Allen and Michaud. They were already signed on to the bills we were pushing, though we further encouraged them not to compromise and to keep the process as transparent as possible.
We had almost no time for dinner before hopping back on the bus for Portland where we arrived at about 6am Wednesday. It was an exciting trip and felt I had shared the gospel in both our political action as well as through one on one conversations. I hope to do more of this work, perhaps bringing a full team from Peoples next time.

Directory Photos-A new directory is coming!

Submitted by Marlene Tordoff



If you have not had your picture taken, please see Susan Angell; call her at 799-8340 or email her at angelsuzieq@aol.com. Photos will be scheduled with Chuck and Joanne Kamilewicz. It is important to have your photograph in the directory to assist new people in getting to know each of us in our church family. As an option, Chuck will also offer packages of photographs for your purchase. Profits from this project will help defray the church deficit. Thanks for your help – Marlene Tordoff

Dr. Malcolm Cass: Dedicated and Devoted Servant

Dr. Malcolm Cass: Devoted and Dedicated Servant of Peoples United Methodist Church
It seems fitting that while we all have stories to share about Dr. Cass and Hillie those things in a person’s life that are most meaningful to them can be discerned from their own writing. In response to a request by the present historian of Peoples in gathering family histories for an as yet to be published book titled, Roots of Peoples, Dr. Cass submitted the following in 2004. Art Tordoff
Walter H. Cass, born in England, was the oldest of eight children, and his wife to be, Ethel Marion Laugher, was the only child in her Birmingham family. A letter from his sister, Olive, in 1969 told us that Marion brought Walter into deeper religious experience, and he decided to come as a clergyman to Newfoundland, which he did in 1913. This, he found, was a mistake, and after a few weeks he returned to England, but soon again crossed the Atlantic, this time to Maine, where Columbia Falls was his first pastorate. Marion followed him in 1915-15 and they were immediately married by the Rev. William Stewart of Addison, Maine. Malcolm was born in 1916.
Walter Cass studied theology at Boston University and Bangor Theological Seminary and was ordained into the full ministry in the Methodist Episcopal Church. He and his wife, Marion served their lives in the Maine Conference., in churches at Columbia Falls, Pembroke, Milltown, Bucksport, Brownville Junction, Bar Harbor, Old Orchard Beach, and finally Peoples Church in South Portland. The Reverend Walter H. Cass dropped dead while walking up Congress Street in 1942, and his widow likewise died of a heart attack in 1950. Mrs. Cass, who had taught music in British schools in earlier years, continued as a minister’s wife in directing choirs in her husband’s churches and finally serving as director of Peoples Church Junior Choir in the 1940’s.
Malcolm Walter Cass, born in 1916, became the big brother to his sister Elaine in 1918. They grew up in the family parsonages, and attended schools starting in Bucksport and the towns served by their father as minister. Malcolm, who graduated from Bar Harbor High School in 1933, became organist of Clark Memorial Church in 1931 and has rarely since that time been without an organist’s position, serving as Bowdoin College chapel Organist, and then in various churches and Air Force chapels during college and World War II Air Force days. He was an aerial photographic officer in World War II, being captain of a B-29 2oth Air Force photo section on Guam.
In 1941, Malcolm married Hildreth E. Edwards, whom he met at a Peoples Church choir rehearsal. During World War II they were together in Colorado and Oklahoma during his tour of duty before he was sent to Guam. They are the parents of Malcolm W. Cass Jr., and David, both of whom are graduates of South Portland High School. Malcolm Jr. is also a Bowdoin graduate and employed by Glaxo-Smith-Kline pharmaceuticals in Raleigh, North Carolina where he and his wife, Annette, live. David, a Williams College graduate is with the Francine and Sterling Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Both sons are married and David and Sue are parents of adopted daughters; Elizabeth from China and Ann from Vietnam.
Malcolm Sr., is a 50 year member of the South Portland Lions Club and was recently elected to Life Membership in Lions. He is also a 60 year member of the American Guild of Organists. As an organist he has presented more than 60 concerts on the Kotzchmar Memorial Organ in Merrill Auditorium and was a founding member of the Board of Directors of the friends of the Kotzchmar Organ, which honored him with the dedication of a new booklet devoted to that instrument. He has been organist for Peoples United Methodist Church since 1946 and director of the Senior Choir since 1953 when he succeeded Mrs. Evelyn Tilton. He was also organist for the Maine Annual Conference during its last 25 years of existence as the Maine Conference. He has given many organ recitals in churches of New England.
Through the years he has acted as member, president and chairman of church clubs and committees including the Men’s Club, Trustees and Finance. He was Cubmaster of the first Cub Scout Pack in the old Peoples Church, and sons Malcolm and David were both active Scouts under the leadership of Harvey Woodbury who took his Scouts to National Jamborees in Colorado and Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
Malcolm and Hillie took many trips to England where they became acquainted with his English relatives. They were members of a large group from Peoples Church who traveled in 1988 to the Holy Land and Egypt, and they also went to Italy in 1984 and met the family of Giovanni Losito, who had been an exchange student in Maine living with them during Malcolm Jr.’s and David’s high school years. Giovanni (Johnnie) has recently requested the right to add the name "Cass" to his family name Losito.
After graduation from Bowdoin College and Pennsylvania College of Optometry, Malcolm practiced optometry in Portland until his retirement in 1982. He served as President of the Maine State Board of Optometry, appointed to that board by Governor John Reed. Hillie, who was a graduate of Simmons College, has at different times been president of the Maine and New England Optometric Auxilary Societies, and the League of Women Voters of South Portland.illie, who was a graduate of Simmons
In 2003, Malcolm and Hillie Cass still pretty much center their lives about Peoples United Methodist Church, Hillie as director of the Junior Choir which sings every Sunday in church, and Malcolm leading the Senior Choir and congregation in worship with Peoples’ fine Reuter Pipe Organ.
As an addendum we must add that Malcolm served as the Church Historian for many years keeping a collection of papers and memorabilia in tact.

Feel free to add your stories about Hillie and Malcolm by responding to this posting.

Moms Group Going Strong

Pastor Gwyneth began a weekly mom’s group in March, which has been a wonderful blessing to six moms and their young children. We began meeting at the parsonage, but have rotated the host location more recently. During the summer we are planning to meet at parks, beaches and for “field trips” to places like the Narrow Gauge Railroad or the Children’s Museum in bad weather. Last week we took a trip to the Maine Wildlife Preserve in Gray. These activities provide space for some of the school-aged children to participate during the summer with their younger siblings. If you know of a mom who might like to join us sometime, please have them contact Pastor Gwyneth for more information.

Second Monthly Girls Night Out

This month Linda Wade planned a sunset cruise around Casco Bay. On Friday, June 22, Linda, Betty Splettstoesser and Pastor Gwyneth set off for a tour of the nearby islands. Though it was windy, the sky cleared and turned out to be quite a pleasant ride. The smaller group allowed for good conversation, and it was great just to get to know each other more than we usually do on a Sunday morning in church. The next plan is for Mini Golf! Hope to see you on the course!

JULY ANNIVERSARIES

Clinton & Elizabeth Roberts July 07
Shawn & Karen Jennings July 08
Andy & Teresa Folley July 18
Malcolm & Hillie Cass July 25
Ted & Nancy Greer July 31

JULY BIRTHDAYS

Louise Aalto July 1
Brett Bernier July 2
Madeline Coughlin July 2
Seamus Jennings July 8
Laney Filieo July 9
Dan Doughty July 12
Dustin Matthews July 16
Pastor Jamie Arrison July 21
Alan Gay July 21
Elaine Rogers July 23
Sawyer Marston July 26
Dena Arrison July 27
Melinda Marston July 27
Mary Ann Wheeler July 28
Caleb Gray July 30
Jonathan Lyons July 31

Ushers, Greeters, Nursery, Etc. for Summer

July Worship Leader (Worship Leader Coordinator, Chris Ward):
Bert Marston
August Worship Leader
Earle Harvey

Summer Nursery Workers (Nursery Coordinator, Barbara Nelson):
7/1 Andy Folley and Pastor Jamie
7/8 Becky Snoddy and Pastor Gwyneth
7/15 Teresa Folley and Karen Jennings
7/22 Barbara Nelson & Barbara Lee
7/29 Betty Lane & Betty Splettstoesser
8/5 Betsy Morrison & Kathy Brann
8/12 Doreen Gay & Becky Snoddy
8/19 Ellen Dunn & Curtis Coughlin
8/26 Linda Greer & Betty Splettstoesser

Summer Ushers (Usher Coordinator, Charlie Lyons):
PLEASE HELP US FILL IN THE BLANKS !!!!!!
7/1 Chris Ward and Rosemary Herd
7/8 Barbara Nelson and Betty Splettstoesser
7/15 Charlie and Anita Lyons
7/22 Pat and Merrill Kaiser
7/29 Jim MacKinnon and Dan Doughty
8/5 Tom Nelson and Jim MacKinnon
8/12
8/19
8/26

Summer Greeters (Greeter Coordinator, Barbara Nelson):
July 1 Dan and Ruth Doughty
July 8 Anita and Charlie Lyons
July 15 Earle and Wealthy Harvey
July 22 Sally and Betty Smith
July 29th The Dunn Family
Aug 5 Becky Gotlieb
Aug 12 Becky and Keith Snoddy
Aug 19 Belle Graney
Aug 26 Jody Fyles and Janice Huelin

Annual Conference 2007

The New England Annual Conference was held June 8-10 at Gordon College in Wenham, MA, with clergy session on June 7. Both pastors attended as the conference provides excellent childcare. In addition, Merrill Kaiser attended as the Peoples UMC lay member to annual conference. Earle Harvey attended as one of our district equalization members, a voting position that ensures there are equal numbers of clergy and lay people attending. The strong lay representation in Methodism is one of its great strengths. The biggest voting issue this year was electing lay and clergy delegates to 2008 General Conference. Earle and Merrill would be happy to share their experiences with you directly, and if you are interested in attending next year you can talk to them as well as the pastors.

Sunday School Recognition

Rosemary Herd, Sunday School Superintendent, led the Sunday School recognition on June 3 during worship. What a joyous celebration to see the youth of the church growing in Christian maturity as disciples of Jesus Christ. Thanks to Rosemary and all of the folks who lead and help out in Sunday School!

Isaac Dunn received his gift Bible as a graduate from 4th grade.

Graduate Recognition

It was a wonderful celebration on June 3, with recognition of folks graduating, and all of the Sunday School youth receiving their certificates. Here is a photo of Jonathan Lyons and Patrick Morrison. You can read more about where they are heading in the previous newsletter post. It was also mentioned that these graduates received a scholarship check with the funds raised for Kathy Brann's graduation party last year.

Pastors’ Family Schedule

The pastors take one day off a week to spend as a family, and are shifting that day from Saturday to Monday for the summer. In addition, the pastors take one night a week for a date, and will be shifting that day from Thursday to Wednesday for the summer. As usual, they carry the cell phone (799-6814) with them so please leave a message. Any pastoral emergencies will be responded to immediately. Heads up for the pastors' vacation schedule as well: they are planning on taking two weeks in July, July 16-29.

Methodist Revival Scheduled for October 6

From the June 2007 Cape Elizabeth UMC Newsletter (some revisions made as they apply to Peoples)
Used with permission

hoperevival.peoplesumc.com

The Portland-area United Methodist Churches are sponsoring a revival at Scarborough's Beech Ridge Motor Speedway on Saturday, Oct. 6. Details of the event are still being developed by members of the UMC Casco Bay Cluster, including Peoples (Pastor Jamie and Art Tordoff represent Peoples on the Cluster).

The theme will be "Hope for a Hurting World." The New England Conference's Bishop Peter Weaver will address the revival and will also lead an Altar Call -- an opportunity for anyone who wishes to come forward and publically make or a renew a commitment to Jesus.

The revival is scheduled to start at noon and will continue until 6pm. The bishop is scheduled to speak at 7:15pm. Before then there will be music and speakers with a selection of bands each playing 20-40 minutes. Beach Ridge is a NASCAR-sanctioned motor speedway and preliminary discussions have begun to have Bishop Weaver ride in a race car around the track.

Each participating UM church will have a tent in which information about the congregation and mission work will be displayed and discussed. Stay tuned for more details as planning continues. If you feel led to help, please contact Pastor Jamie or Art Tordoff.

Celebrating Grads

Congratulations to all of the graduates with ties to Peoples! If you know someone who has graduated that is missing from this list, please contact the pastors.

Graduates from SPHS from Peoples UMC:

Jonathan Lyons – will be studying communications and playing lacrosse at USM Gorham in the fall.

Patrick Morrison – has been excepted to the entrepreneurial program at SMCC, though is considering waiting a semester and working at a relative’s dude ranch. Patrick is also graduating from Portland Arts & Technology High School (PATHS).

Other grads formerly from Peoples:

SPHS: Meghan Granell, Becky Braley, Joanna Pike; Cape Elizabeth HS: Katie Yosua; Gray New Gloucester High School and PATHS: Justin Harvey

Merrill & Pat Kaiser’s daughter, Pamela Kaiser is completing her Ph.D. in African American Literature at the University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee. She is defending her dissertation at the end of June so please keep her in prayer!

Congratulations to all!

New-Church Directory Coming Soon

A team led by Marlene Tordoff is putting together an updated, phone and address directory, done in-house! This will enable the church to keep the directory continuously updated and provide flexible design. This directory will also include photographs, which assists newcomers and others to learn names and faces in the church family. Chuck & Joanne Kamilewicz have been photographing folks the last several weeks - what a great team they've been!

As an option, Chuck will also offer packages of photographs for your purchase. Profits from this project will help defray the church deficit. If you have not yet had your picture taken, please email Susan Angell or call her at 799-8340 to schedule a timeslot. Thanks for your help.

Yard Sale and Strawberry Festival

Barbara Nelson and Chris Bowker have generously volunteered to run our church yard sale and strawberry festival this year on July 7th. They cannot, however, do it alone. We need the items filling your closets, garages and attics. We need your soups and baked goods. We need your time and strength for setting and cleaning up. Please contact Barbara for yard sale items and help and Chris for offers of help with food. This is always a fun and successful event, but it needs you.

Free Bowling for All

Come join us for a free afternoon of bowling on July 8th at Yankee Lanes in Portland at 1PM. This is a fun event for all ages, whether you bowl a perfect game or can’t even pick up the ball. Please call the pastors at 799-6814 to RSVP

Celebrating Sunday School

Rosemary Herd along with an excellent team of teachers, helpers and leaders including Andy Folley, Linda Wade, Betty Smith, Chris Ward, Wealthy Harvey, Karen Jennings and more, put together an exciting year of Sunday School for our young people. We had fifteen children who were often in attendance in addition to four little ones who will be soon joining the ranks with their older siblings.

Next year's program will be even more exciting with a new curiculum. We may even have a new schedule to make Sunday morning easier for families. The important part is that most of our new curiculums require breaking the groups into smaller age groups. To help support these additional classes, we will need new teachers as well as more students. We would like to see an minimum attendance next year of twenty. To this end, every one that reads this should think of two families that you can start inviting to church. We already have a basic pamphlet available in the back of the sanctuary that you can use to share what is going on at Peoples with your friends and famlilies. The ministries of our church will only reach more people if you invite them in.

Thanks again to the teachers and kids of our Sunday School for a great year even as we look for an even better one next year!

Calendar Planning

The time has come for us to develop the church calendar for 07-08. Please consider joining us for the Church Council meetin on June 12th at 7:30pm. This is a good time to celebrate what the church has been doing in the last year and look for exciting ways to expand the ministry in the year to come. Pray about this time and if you are not able to attend, share your feedback, ideas and most importantly what you hear from God in your prayers about our ministries in the new year.

June Worship Teams

June Worship Leader (Lector Coordinator, Chris Ward):
Rosemary Herd

June Ushers (Usher Coordinator, Charlie Lyons):
Art Tordoff
Charlie Lyons

June Nursery Schedule

"Jesus loves the little children" and so do we. Thank you to all who serve in the nursery during morning worship!!! Kathy Brann, Curtis Coughlin, Ellen Dunn, Andy Folley, Teresa Folley, Doreen Gay, Linda Greer, Karen Jennings, Betty Lane, Betsy Morrison, Barbara Nelson, Becky Snoddy, Betty Splettstoesser, Pastor Jamie and Pastor Gwyneth

Some of our regular nursery folks are unable to serve as they are recovering from surgeries/illnesses, so we could really use a few extra hands. In addition, summer can be difficult to schedule with vacations.

As you see from the list above, some of the nursery workers have small children, others have older or even grown children. If you feel a tug to serve, please let Barbara Nelson or Pastor Gwyneth know so we can initiate the background check process. Thank you!

June Nursery Schedule
6/3 Becky Snoddy & Betty Lane
6/10 Betty Splettstoesser & Ellen Dunn
6/17 Betsy Morrison & Curtis Coughlin
6/24 Betty Lane & Kathy Brann

June Birthdays & Anniversaries

Birthdays

8 Teresa Folley
10 Eliza Jane Chace
10 Earle Harvey
10 Danielle Seidl
13 Charles (Chuck) Kamilewicz
15 Drew Folley, Edward Greer, Kara Kenney
17 Michael Gray
20 Rosemary Herd
23 Rebekah Gray, Richard Matthews
24 Samantha Foote, Janice Huelin
25 Karen Jennings
29 Mariah Bowker
30 Grace Corey

Anniversaries

11 Danny & Linda French
12 Ryan & Sharon Wade
14 Jamie & Gwyneth Arrison, Doug & Linda Greer
17 William (Bill) & Cynthia Beddie
24 Maxwell & Bonnie Brown
27 Robert & Janice Huelin
29 George & Glory Dunn
30 Alan & Doreen Gay
30 Jonathan & Luann Farley

Girls Night Out

Linda Wade suggested a girls/women/ladies night out, not to do church business but just to have fun. This first group met at the Portland Art Museum on Friday night, including Rosemary Herd, Amy Wellington (first time out since surgery!), Linda Wade, Chris Ward, Kathy Brann, Betty Lane and Pastor Gwyneth. It was a great time! If you have suggestions for more fun trips, please contact Linda, or run with the idea yourself! One idea discussed was a sunset cruise around Casco Bay. Stay tuned ...

Trustees and SPRC Join at the Parsonage

On May 20, members of Trustees, Walter Greer and Chuck Kamilewicz met up with members of the Staff Parish Relations Committee, Claralee Street and Becky Snoddy to walk through the parsonage with the pastors. Some may not realize that the church owns the house next door, and that's where the pastors live. It's a beautiful house with lots of class, but also getting up in years so it's important for the church to keep up on maintenance. Annual parsonage inspections are required by every United Methodist Church, and that they meet basic living standards established by the denomination. Our parsonage is in surprisingly good condition, and only a few minor repairs were noted. Thanks to Walter, Chuck, Claralee and Becky for your ministry, and for all of the Trustees who will be coordinating repairs!

Bean Suppah - Tidbits of Behind the Scenes

Submitted through Email by Susan Angell

Did you know that people take beans, molasses, etc. and bake those beans at home. Barbara and Tom buy all the supplies. Charlie Lyons makes the time to pick these bean up where they have been bubbling away and cooked to perfection.

Did you know that Chris Ward and anyone she can convince/connive into to joining her, comes in around 2:30-3:00. The tables have been set up by our Boy Scouts with dishes and silverware. Chris' crew garnish all the tables with salt and pepper shakers, sugar, paper cups, butter and cream. Belle Graney comes in early to get those huge coffee urns perking.

The pie person (Chris Bowker pictured here) comes in at 4:00 and cuts those pies that are received. This is probably one of the better tasks because left over crumbs of pies from cutting are the property of the cutter and if you ever tasted the excellent pies our people bake, you know that is a very good thing. When I sub for the cutter, I make sure that lots of crumbs don't make it to the plates.

Has any one heard of the "Hostess with the Mostess", Pearl Mesta? Well, we have our own Pearl and her name is Hillie Cass who arrives at 4:00 too and she meets and greets our customers, taking them to their tables, making sure they stop at the pie table and smoozing with the crowd. Maryann Wheeler comes in along with Hillie and is our cashier extrodinaire.

What happens to the left overs? The kitchen people place them in Oakhurst containers donated by Tom Nelson. Belle Graney used to pop those in her car and take them to charitable organizations. Now, they are set aside for the Sunday night Gathering people for their repast. Nothing goes to waste! Very, very, rarely some of us are forced to take home a piece of left over pie. It is one of the sacrifices I am willing to make for the good of the cause now that Bill Beddie is no longer here to do it for us.

Our last Bean Supper before Summer will be held June 16. Come on down and join the fun!

Tri State District Pre Conferencing

The pastors attended the annual district meeting to prepare for Annual Conference. Pictured in the photo are two familiar Peoples people, Rev. Bill Beddie and Rev. Wanda Stahl (leading the discussion). Annual Conference will take place June 8-10 with Merrill Kaiser attending as our Lay Member to Annual Conference, and Earle Harvey attending as an Equilization Member (lay members to balance the number of clergy and lay people who vote). The pastors will also be attending the clergy session on June 7. The biggest topic at Conference this year will be electing delegates to General and Jurisdictional Conferences.

Farewell to Maryjean

As many of you know, the church is under a tight budget crunch. The Staff Parish Relations Committee (HR for the church) has made the difficult decision to eliminate the position of Church Secretary. Maryjean Raymond has served faithfully in this position 30 plus years and will always be considered part of the Peoples family. Her last day was May 11. We will miss you Maryjean.

Luncheon To Discuss the Budget

About 25 people stayed after the service on May 6th to hear about our church's budget situation and discuss ideas for turning it around. We discussed the budget from the top - the pastors' package down through the building expenses, mission shares, administrative costs and down to our meager spending on ministry. We found a few areas of potential savings in utilities and administrative costs and a few fund raising ideas. In short, it is clear that the budget will only be balenced by an increase in the amount our members bring forward to share together as a church family. We discussed what our budget might look like if we were all tithing - that is bringing the first 10% of our income to hold together. The result could be as much as a $40,000 or more surplus that could be going to new ministries or even helping out members in sudden need. The bottom line, is that God has blessed our church family with enough resources to more than just support our local church. Rather, we have enough to have an abundance of ministry. With this attitude of abundance, we are asking for every regular giver to increase their pledge by 1% of your annual income. This should raise an additional $10,000 in just the second half of this year. So far, only a few people have turned in specific pledge increases, but these few amount to almost a quarter of that goal. If we all bring together a full portion, we will be growing into an attitude of abundance that will carry over to our other ministries of reaching out. I am sure this change can bring about growth, not just in financial stability, but especially in our spiritual lives as we learn to depend more fully on God.

Community Fair; Another Great Year

This year's community fair was another wonderful time with food, games, and booths all around Ellis Hall representing agencies in our community that are seeking volunteers. A Big Thank You goes out to Rosemary Herd, Earle Harvey, and Art Tordoff, as well as many other folks who helped plan, organize, advertise, set up and take down. Plans are underway to host the next event in Fall 2008 !

Hank Dunn and Linda Greer showing off their casts. Both attended the fair even though recovering from recent surgeries!

Heifer International Presentation

If you didn't attend this past Sunday's Worship Service, you missed a treat. Merrill Kaiser and Rosemary Herd gave a presentation on Heifer International and the children dressed for the occasion. Ellen Dunn led the choir in song.(See pictures)

Heifer International is an organization whose mission is to make a difference in the lives of struggling families around the globe. Globe banks and calendars were handed out to those who wanted to participate. The idea is that each day you see how fortunate you are by looking at the calendar. It will tell you to count certain items in your house. For example, on a Thursday, you count the number of eggs in your refrigerator. For each egg you count, put 5 cents in the Globe bank. The more fortunate you are, the more you put in your globe bank. With a number of people doing this, farm animals can be purchased for families in need.

In the pictures, who can you identify? Sammy, Isaac, Nathan, Caleb, Samantha, Melinda and Sawyer. The costumes were on loan by Andy Foley's mother.

For more information, see Merrill Kaiser.

Thank you to all who participated in this ongoing project.

Church yard Clean-Up

Church Yard Clean-up

What promised to be a rather lowery day on Saturday, April 28 ended up being a great day to work around the outside of the church. Since the yard needed sprucing up before the Second Annual Community Awareness Fair, scheduled for May 5, the Trustees scheduled the annual Spring clean-up for this weekend. The work for the day called for taking care of multitudes of not so dry leaves, refuse blownonto the property because of the busyness of the area, and beautifying the garden area. Those who put rakes, shovels and garden equipment to use were the following: Walter and Michelle Greer, Art and Marlene Tordoff, Kathy Brann, Sue Angell, Barbara Nelson, Janice Huelin, Chuck Kamilewicz, Brad Morrison and Rosemary Herd. Walter brought his trailer and before the morning was over all of the grounds had been raked, the garden cleaned out and the refuse picked up. Rosemary made coffee for all those that wanted it. I'm sure all participants felt a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Baptismal Joy!

On Sunday, April 22 we baptized three babies, including the pastors' son Alex as pictured above, and Eli Filieo and Cooper Trafford. Pastor Jamie met with the families of Eli and Cooper for two classes on the meaning of baptism (for a good article on baptism in the Methodist tradition, read "By Water and the Spirit") and the seriousness and joy with which the baptismal vows are spoken - both by parents and sponsors, and by the congregation. Pastor Jamie baptized Eli and Cooper, and Pastor Gwyneth baptized Alex. It certainly was a wonderful celebration! Here's all the info if you were unable to attend worship:

Eli Ferdinando Filieo
Parents: Kari & Aaron Filieo

Siblings: Mia & Laney
Godparents: Raelyn & Eric Renny

Cooper Dean Trafford
Parents: Shelly & Donald Trafford
Siblings: Kyle & Jenna
Godparents: Raelyn & Eric Renny

Alexandrew (Alex) Child Arrison
Parents: Gwyneth & Jamie Arrison
Siblings: Faith & Dena

The Gathering will meet as a Bible Study

Until further notice, the Gathering contemporary worship service will meet as a lay-led small group Bible study beginning April 29. The group will continue to meet at 5:30pm for a light meal in Ellis Hall, followed by study in the church parlor at 6pm. All are welcome to attend! Please contact Earle Harvey with any questions.

Although this worship servive was created to reach out to youth and families with young children, it seems that the time of night was not compatible with the needs of these folks. On the other hand, the fellowship between the small group of folks who have been attending faithfully has been wonderful, and they as well as the pastors want this to continue. It was discussed that the group should continue to meet as a lay-led small group rather than as a worship service. They will begin studying the book of James April 29, using an interactive curriculum called BibleSense by Group Publishing.

The Gathering has been a fun and worshipful time for all of those who have come out. Thank you for your participation and support!

2nd Annual Community Awareness Fair

2nd Annual Community Awareness Fair
Ellis Hall and the Church Grounds
310 Broadway, South Portland
Saturday, May 5, 2007
9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Back by popular demand Peoples United Methodist Church is sponsoring its 2nd Community Awareness Fair. The purpose of the Fair is first and foremost an opportunity for people in the community to become aware of a number of organizations that provide volunteer services and in turn seek volunteers to help in providing those services. This year nearly 30 local and some national organizations will be represented at the Fair.

Among those having booths are the following:
The Root Cellar, Habitat for Humanity, Food Pantry, Preble Street Resource Center, Southern Maine Agency on Aging, Wayside Soup Kitchen, Lions Club, Boy Scouts, Red Bird Mission, Heifer International, Red Cross, South Portland Nursing Home, Boys and Girls Club, UM Nomads, Prayer Shawl Ministry, Bean Suppers, Mercy Hospital, Maine Medical Center, Ronald MacDonald House, Kairos, Alternative to Violence, Long Creek Youth Center, Youth Alternatives, Family Crisis Shelter, Literacy Volunteers

Bring the Kids!
Plan to bring children. There will be plenty for them to do at the Fair. There will be games and cake walks with prizes for the children.

Hungry? Also on the grounds will be free hot dogs, popcorn, lemonade and cotton candy for anyone in attendance.

Missions Opportunity

UMCOR at New England Conference
For those that may not know UMCOR stands for United Methodist Committee on Relief.
Two years ago Peoples played a major role in Maine in serving as a collection location for all kinds of relief needs during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. These items were picked up and distributed in the Gulf Coast states through UMCOR. Last year Peoples collected school supplies that were collected at the New England Methodist Conference and delivered to the Nicaraguan Covenant van at Conference. In 2007 Peoples Discipleship and Mission efforts between now and the New England Conference will again be soliciting the congregations’ support in collecting items for distribution through UMCOR to locations wherever there is a need. While there are many kits that can be put together we would like to concentrate on the following four areas. Will you help us in gathering items that are listed in the following kits? Place these items inside a sealed one-gallon plastic bag.

Health Kit: 1 hand towel (15" x 25" up to 17" x 27", No kitchen towels), 1 washcloth, 1 comb (large and sturdy, not pocket-sized) , 1 nail file or fingernail clippers (no emery boards or toenail clippers), 1 bath-size bar of soap (3 oz. and up), 1 toothbrush (single brushes only in original wrapper, No child-size brushes), 1 large tube of toothpaste (expiration date must be 12 months or longer in advance of the date of shipment to UMCOR Sager Brown), 6 adhesive plastic strip sterile bandages

Layette Kit: 6 Cloth diapers; 2 shirts or 2 one-piece body suits; 2 baby washcloths; 2 gowns or sleepers; 2 diaper pins; one sweater open in the front; 2 receiving blankets. Value: $35 per kit. All of the inclusions should be bundled inside one of the receiving blankets and secure with the diaper pins.

School Kit: 1 pair blunt scissors rounded tip); 2 pads (or loose leaf) of 8 ½ x 11" ruled paper; 1 30-centimeter ruler; 1 hand-held pencil sharpener; 6 unsharpened pencils with erasers; 1 eraser,2 ½ "; 12 sheets of construction paper (varied colors); 1 box of 24 crayons (24 only). Value: $18 per kit. Prepare a 12" x 14" (finished size)) cloth bag with handles and a closure (Velcro, snap, or button) and place items in the bag.

Sewing Kit: 3 yards of cotton or cotton blend, solid color or print fabric ( must be three yards of uncut fabric); 1 pair of sewing scissors; 1 package of needles; 1 spool of thread; 5-8 matching buttons. Value: $18 per kit. Wrap sewing notions in the fabric and place in a sealed one-gallon plastic bag.

Important Kit Assembly Information
All items included in kits must be NEW items.
All emergency kits are carefully planned to make them usable in the greatest number of situations. Since strict rules often govern product entry into international countries, it is important that kits contain only the requested items-nothing more.
Do NOT include any personal notes, money or additional materials in the kits. These things must be painstakingly removed and will delay the shipment.

You may wish to put a kit together yourself or supply portions of any of the kits. If you are a member of a church group you may wish to put several kits together. They may be brought to church and left in the collection box at the back of the sanctuary through Sunday, June 3.
Talk to and enlist your friends and families in this worthy cause.
-Mission and Discipleship Team

Church Bowling Party May 27

Please join us for a FREE bowling party at Yankee Lanes (10-pin) in Portland on Sunday May 27 1-3pm. This will allow for about 3 games, and includes free shoe rental, use of equipment and instruction for those interested. Light refreshments will also be available. Yankee Lanes is offering free parties to churches and other organizations to generate more interest in their facility. They do need to know an approximate head count, so please RSVP to 799-1413 or email the church office. Hope to see there!

May Birthdays

1 Cheryl Kranz
5 Paul Obie
6 Ruth Kittredge
7 Laurie Brann
Alisha Wade
8 Ryan Wade
9 Claralee Street
10 Fred Wade
13 Walter Greer
14 Karen Darling
15 Wealthy Harvey
16 Elsie Johnson
19 Fred Brann
Nancy Greer
24 Linda Wade
30 Belle Graney
31 Brad Morrison

New Brochures

Separate brochures highlighting our church life, small groups, children’s ministries and ministries of care are now available in the greeting area of the church sanctuary. These are geared specifically toward newcomers and visitors to Peoples in order to help them find places to connect, be nurtured and to grow intheir faith. However long time members may also not be aware of the many opportunities at Peoples, so take a set to look over for your own benefit, and then ... pass along to a friend!

Why new brochures? Several excellent welcome brochures have been designed and printed by different folks over the last few years, but it is helpful to newcomers (and members too!) to have more information provided about the church ministries than is possible in one welcome brochure. The new brochures are created as a matched set, which looks professional but also makes it easy to add new brochures. If you have ideas for additional brochure topics please let the pastors know. The next ones we are considering are the pastors' baptism and marriage policies.

If you find any ministries that are not listed, or have other ideas for improving the brochures, we are printing them in small quantities so they can be revised. Please let the pastors know your feedback. Thank you.

Budget Lunch

Sunday May 6 after church we are hosting a lunch to discuss the 2007 budget for Peoples UMC, what the money goes toward, and how much more is needed to reduce our deficit so that we can continue and grow vital ministries for the church and community.

The 2007 budget for Peoples UMC is $13,300 more in deficit than 2006. Though 2006 had been an improvement on the previous year, we need to begin to reduce our deficit below the current $45,000 level.

There will be an opportunity to ask questions and discuss creative solutions. We will also be asking our congregation to raise our collective pledges by $10,000 and are looking to increase a few of our other fundraising efforts.

We are confident that our variety of new programs in worship, adult small groups and youth will bring future growth for the church and for the increase of God’s kingdom in South Portland. We are further confident that God will provide all that His ministry needs through your faithful response. Please come to this luncheon and consider increasing the portion of what God has given you that you to return to His ministry here at Peoples. Please RSVP to the church office 799-1413.

Walking Club Startup

Submitted by Becky Gotlieb and Barbara Nelson

Becky Gotlieb and Barbara Nelson have recently formed a small group of folks who are interested in exercising and talking about how to better take care of themselves. They are walking on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30pm as well as Saturday mornings, and meet in the church parking lot. If interested, please call Becky at 799-3416 or Barbara at 799-6321. "Please join us for Fellowship and working to get healthier together. " If interested in joining the group please call Becky at 799-3416 or Barbara at 799-6321.

Workshop with the Bishop

Bishop Pete Weaver led us in an inspiring workshop on stewardship in our churches; certainly a relevant topic given the seriousness of our financial situation at Peoples. We are not alone in our struggle either -- most of our sister UM churches are in the same boat.

Why is this? Some of the reasons mentioned by other churches were lack of ministry vision to get people psyched to give, failure to communicate financial status and where money goes (in an exciting way), personal debt of the congregation and a culture that encourages luxury rather than sacrifice, church building maintenace, living on the edge of the budget so giving goes only to heat, salaries and pension rather than exciting missional opportunities, lack of accountability in our personal giving, encouraging low commitment membership so we don't offend people (the fastest growing churches actually require the highest commitment ones also).

The bishop spoke about worship creating the environment for joyful and sacrificial giving, and challenged pastors to use more "creative energy" in designing unique ways to present the offering each week. He also spoke about creating a "narrative budget" rather than communicating financal numbers with an unintelligible spreadsheet!

There was also a presentation on Good $ense, the workshop hosted here at Peoples just a few months ago, and good discussion in small groups on all of these topics. This is part of a comprehensive program of personal and church stewardship worshops and materals that the conference is making available to churches.

"You don't make a pickle by sprinkling a cucumber with vinegar," said the Bishop. Likewise, we don't create an environment of biblical stewardship with a three-week canned stewardship package once a year. Rather churches need "immersion in stewardship" throughout the year.

We look forward to hearing your inspirational and revolutionary ideas!

Ushers, Greeters, etc. for May

Nursery (Barbara Nelson, Coordinator)
5/6 Doreen Gay & Kathy Brann
5/13 Andy Folley & Pastor Jamie
5/20 Barbara Nelson & Karen Jennings
5/27 Barbara Nelson & Barbara Lee

Ushers for May (Charlie Lyons, Coordinator)
Chuck Kamilewicz
Keith Snoddy

Greeters (Barbara Nelson, Coordinator)
5/6 Paul and Sharon Obie
5/13 Betty Splettstoesser
5/20 Barbara Nelson
5/27 Becky Snoddy

Lector for May (Chris Ward, Coordinator)
Ellen Dunn

Easter Blessings

There was a lot of joy this Easter at Peoples! The day started with a beautiful sunrise on Fisherman's Point with about 40 who braved the cold. The sun began to peek above the island just as we were reading the Scripture. "Thy Word is a light unto my path" came to mind.

Next was the Children's musical during which we heard the joyful voices of some of the kids from Sunday School. Many thanks to Andy Folley for his leadership of this group, and to Rosemary Herd and all of the Sunday School volunteers.

This was followed by a wonderful Easter breakfast of pancakes, bacon and muffins by Brad Morrison. Thanks to Brad, Chris, Joanne and Chuck, and everyone else who helped out in the kitchen, and with setup and clearup.

Here is a photo of the kids receiving instructions for the Easter Candy Hunt! Before going to get ready for morning worship, the kids had a great time running around finding Easter candy! Thanks to Betty Lane for coordinating this, which included putting together special Easter bags for each child.

Happy Easter to everyone!

He is risen!

He is risen indeed!

Holy Week

Holy Week helped prepare us to experience the cross of Christ so as to fully experience our Easter joy. The darkness and reverence of this week was experienced at a special Maundy Thursday worship led by Pastor Jamie, a Good Friday service led by the UM pastors in the area, a prayer vigil coordinated by Betty Splettstoesser from 1:30-9:30pm with every slot filled, and finally a showing of the last hours of the life of Christ in a showing of the movie, "The Passion of the Christ." Thanks to all who helped coordinate and set up these events so that we could truly worship the Lord this Holy Week.

The Palms on Palm Sunday

On Palm Sunday, many came out to sing "The Palms" as current AND past members of Junior Choir. It was a joy to see the group together, and everyone clapped for Hillie Cass who served as the Junior Choir Director for 40 years before retiring, and for Malcolm Cass who has announced his upcoming retirement as Organist and Music Director. The Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC - the "HR" for the Methodist Church) is discussing Malcolm's retirement and is seeking an interim music director for between 3-12 months. Ideas and suggestions are welcome - please contact Dan Doughty as SPRC Chair.

In addition, plans are being made for a concert in honor of Malcolm and Hillie Cass, most likely in June. Stay tuned for details.

Tri-State District Yourth Retreat

Submitted by our D.S. Rev Jan and Mike Davis

Below you will find info on the Tri-State District Yourth Retreat for all middle or high school youth and youth leaders. The event is May 4 - 5th, 2007 at the Exeter United Methodist Church in New Hampshire

Friday, May 4th
6:00pm: Registration
7:00pm: Greeting/Prayer/ Rules
8:00pm: Pay it Forward excerpts and discussion
10:00pm: Worship with Praise Band
11:00pm: ready for bed
11:30pm: Lights out!!

Saturday May 5th
7:00am Rise and Shine!!!
8:00am Morning Vespers (Praise Team) then Breakfast
9:00am Block #1
Adults - Basics of Vital Youth Ministry I, By Steve Murray
Youth - How have you made a difference already?
Both - Reaching Beyond the Walls of the Local Church by Cat Janson
10:15am: Break
10:30am: Block #2
Adults - Basics of Youth Ministry II (Steve M.)
Youth- Illustrating your mission work thru the Arts with Priscilla Dreyman
11:45am: Break
Noon: Lunch and Learn
Lunch and Learn-Marilyn Robb will lead the discussion about Mission work.
1:15pm: Block #3
Adults-ABCs of Youth Mission Trips
Youth - How are you going to ‘pay it forward’?
2:30 pm: Closing Worship (Praise Team)

What to bring?
You may not be under the stars, but you will need something to sleep on. If you do not have a sleeping bag, bring a couple of blankets and don’t forget your pillow. You will want to bring your toothbrush and any other items you want to care for personal hygiene needs. P.S. Sorry, no time for showers. Also bring a white plain Tee Shirt to be Silk Screened with event logo. What else is important when youth get together? FOOD!!!!! If you bring a snack, bring enough to share. Also bring the “Student Movie Pass” Form. Finallyl, bring a great attitude and your Bible will be very helpful

RSVP to Pastor Gwyneth or Jamie

Clark Memorial UMC Coffee House

Open Hearts Christian Coffee House
Clark Memorial UMC, Portland, ME
Upcoming Dates:
April 28, 2007 at 6:30 PM
May 26, 2007 at 6:30 PM

April's artists include: 6-piece, high energy, Christian Contemporary band "Beyond Blue;" Amazing guitarist Gary Richardson performing music from his CD "When Angels Fly".
This event is hosted by: Clark Memorial UMC, Portland ME
Coordinator: Coffee House
Contact Phone: (207) 653-0339

Mystery Dinner by UMC in Gray

Submitted by Natalie Blake, Good Shepherd UMC, Gray, ME

It looks like it’s going to be a very “Spirited” night at the Swanson Manor. On the 150th anniversary of the infamous Davenport family murders, Ms. Laurie Swanson has invited eight individuals to spend the night in her haunted home. Among the invitees is a direct descendent of the murder victims, a prominent psychic, a tabloid reporter and a couple of paranormal investigators. As the spirits do their best to frighten our guests with strange sights and sounds, a murder occurs. Who knows which illustrious detective will arrive on the scene first, but with a little luck and a lot of skill, you could help solve the murder.

The Good Shepherd Players present a mystery dinner production, “A Spirited Night in Swanson Manor” at Spring Meadows Golf and Country Club. World premier performances will be on May 4th and May 11th at 6:30 pm. Tickets for the shows are $30 per person and include salad, main course and dessert. Seats are limited, so make your reservations at 637-3880. Ask about special pricing for groups of eight.

Greater Portland Visioning Committee

Greater Portland Visioning Meeting
After several delays for weather and conflicts with other meetings, District Superintendent Michael Davis gathered a small group of pastors and lay folks together at Elm Street United Methodist Church on Saturday, March 31. In attendance were Pastors Kate and David Nichol of Clark Memorial and Elm Street/Buxton respectively. Reverend Ruth Morrison of Cape Elizabeth and Reverend Lynn Campbell of Thornton Heights. were also present. Representing Good Shepherd was Natalie Blake and Art Tordoff represented Peoples.
This group has met periodically for a year looking at how the United Methodist churches in the Greater Portland area might better become the hands and feet of God and to answer the following questions:
How can we reach new folks and read what their needs are perceived to be?
How willing are United Methodists in the local area churches to accept change and to change if necessary?
What prevents us as a body from moving on?

Each church is unique and has its own talents and specialties. Are these strengths emphasized? How can all of the United Methodist churches in the area best utilize their resources and support each other? These are a couple of the questions that were forthcoming at this session. Discussion was obviously limited with the limited number of representatives in attendance. The discussion for a time did center on what help we can bring to each other collectively. It was mentioned that one area that has already been talked about was working together on purchase of such items as fuel. It was mentioned that Tom Nelson of Peoples had brought that message to the two Clusters and that a number of churches were interested in following up in this area.

District Superintendent Mike said that he believed that all of the churches have the potential for growth due to a careful look at the demography statistics that we had been presented last year. Part of the success of growth can only come about if the churches are actively engaged in mission and ministry. Each congregation needs to discover God’s vision for them as well as how each congregation can work with other congregations for common causes. He went on to say that God’s love for the church is greater than our own. The last point that he made was that you can’t have the attitude of putting off something because of a lack of perceived personnel or financial resources to undertake change. Through God and prayer there are usually resources and personnel made available to carry out necessary changes, yet each individual must play his or her part in fulfilling the mission.

The district superintendent also made the following observations that are important for each church and the Clusters in the Greater Portland area to consider.
1. Things are often thought to have been said about something that in fact have
not been said or have been misinterpreted. It is important to not assume
something without further research and face to face communication.
2. Area churches here as well as many other areas are in decline. If we are to carry the message of Christ in a United Methodist tradition change has to take place and be accepted.
3. Many congregations appear to be suspicious of the Conference leadership directives which appear to include DS’es and in some cases other folks that find headquarters remote from the immediate area.
4. A greater sense of loss would exist locally if merger were forced on local congregations. It does seem strange if on the one hand the conference is anxious to have new church starts while suggesting and perhaps causing other parishes to disband, fold or merge.
Some congregations actually desire to grow and accept change in many areas of church life.
5. At the same time many congregations live in the past and want to be what they were 30 years ago by maintaining status quo.
6. Many congregations fear the future especially, it is felt, in this area although we do have a great potential for growth according to demographic statistics.
7. We need to honor history but where do we go from here? History can be a great teacher, but we are presently making the history that will affect the church that is downstream from us today.
8 and 9. Portland and its peninsula is not lost. Those who will form a new church out of the Chestnut population will need help from other area churches and in turn will influence a different direction for all churches in the area.
10. Dare we explore new ways of serving together? We need to look at organizing
in new ways or through different eyes.

The group discerned that it was not necessary to meet as a Visioning Committee again but instead to trust the Clusters, Casco Bay and Greater Portland to work on change together. While they will remain separate clusters it was thought that the two clusters have regular meetings together four times a year by sharing meeting times and places. More to be seen in this realm in Cluster meeting reports in the near future.

As the writer of this article I have taken the writer's license to add some opinion as a followup to some of the observations that are credited to the District Superintendent. If you are not in agreement with either the observations or the added commentary please feel free to respond to this addition to the blog.