House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church January 2015
God chose to live in a mobile home
"And the Word became flesh and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us..."John 1:14 (Amplified)
"Wherever
I have moved about among all the people of Israel, did I ever speak a
word with any..., saying, 'Why have you not built me a house of
cedar?'"2 Samuel 7:7 (NRSV)
In a recent Advent lectionary
reading, King David is troubled about the fact that he is living in
luxury in a new palace while the ark of the covenant, representing God's
presence, remains in a mobile tent.
For over four centuries,
ever since their emigration from Egypt, God's visible "home" for the
Jewish people was a portable tent, a “tabernacle”, rather than a
permanent temple. Apparently God preferred it that way, having given
elaborate instructions (Exodus 25-27) for this modest size "mobile home"
and having never given any directions for building a more expansive
structure dedicated to the worship of God.
King Solomon,
claiming God's approval, took it upon himself to build the first
permanent Jewish temple, with elaborate features but still relatively
small compared to many of today's places of worship. His temple was
destroyed and then rebuilt on a somewhat more modest scale under
Nehemiah after the Jewish return from their exile in Babylon.
In Jesus' day King Herod built a beautiful temple that symbolized the
hopes of a nation, then under Roman oppression, that was longing for its
former glory under King Solomon's rule.
It is clear that Jesus
was never impressed by such signs of religious splendor and power. He
never owned any real estate and chose to consider his followers as his
living home, his sacred dwelling. Never once did he instruct his
followers to go into all the world and construct buildings for worship,
and members of the first century church met in each others' homes and in
other available spaces.
God likes tents, prefers to live in
mobile homes, in a people who are solely devoted to his mission as
announced by the prophet Isaiah:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Luke 4:18-19 (NIV)
Notes, prayers and praises
SPECIAL JANUARY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to James Stauffer 1/8, Susan Campbell 1/17, Becky Morlan 1/28, Dick Dumas 1/30
OUR ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING is Sunday, January 11.
THE HEIFER INTERNATIONAL Christmas offering was $300.
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER will be doing voluntary service in Phoenix through April. Pray for her as she takes on this assignment. Her address is: c/o Hospitality Service, 4443 West Vista Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301. Her cell phone number remains the same.
January Lectionary readings
4 Jeremiah 31:7-14 Psalm 147:12-20 Ephesians 1:3-14 John 1:1-18
11 Genesis 1:1-5 Psalm 29 Acts 19:1-7 Mark 1:4-11
18 1 Samuel 3:1-20 Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
John 1:43-51
25 Jonah 3:1-5, 10 Psalm 62:5-12 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 Mark 1:14-20
January services worship at 4, meal at 6
4 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
11 Annual Business Meeting: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
Worship
and Bible Study: Harvey
Yoder
18 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Foods Meal
25 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr, 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Sunday, November 30, 2014
December 2014 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church December 2014
From Wendell Berry’s “The Timbered Choir”
Remembering that it happened once,
We cannot turn away the thought,
As we go out, cold, to our barns
Toward the long night’s end, that we
Ourselves are living in the world
It happened in when it first happened,
That we ourselves, opening a stall
(A latch thrown open countless times
Before), might find them breathing there,
Foreknown: the Child bedded in straw,
The mother kneeling over Him,
The husband standing in belief
He scarcely can believe, in light
That lights them from no source we see,
An April morning’s light, the air
Around them joyful as a choir.
We stand with one hand on the door,
Looking into another world
That is this world, the pale daylight
Coming just as before, our chores
To do, the cattle all awake,
Our own white frozen breath hanging
In front of us; and we are here
As we have never been before,
Sighted as not before, our place
Holy, although we knew it not.
We wish everyone God’s warm “April’s light” this Christmas season!
Harvey and Alma Jean Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
A SPECIAL DECEMBER BIRTHDAY BLESSING to Karen Campbell 12/26!
OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS HOUSE CHURCH GATHERING at the Lodge this year is December 14, and features the lighting of a Menorah candle and prayers for Hannukah as well as a carry-in meal beginning at 4 pm and a celebration of “Jesus as Light of the World”. We will also have a children’s story, and bring food items for the Patchwork Pantry, and take up an offering for Heifer International.
* LOIS RIVERA-WENGER’s new address is 1135 Hamlet Drive, apartment A, Harrisonburg, VA 222802.
December Lectionary readings
7 Mark 1:1-8 Isaiah 40:1-11 Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 2 Peter 3:8-15a
14 John 1:6-8, 19-28 Isaiah 64:1-11 Psalm 126 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
21 Luke 1:26-38 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 Romans 16:25-27
28 Luke 2:22-40 Isaiah 61:10-62:3 Psalm 148 Galatians 4:4-7
December services worship at 4, meal at 6 (except 12/14)
7 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Lois Rivera-Wenger
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
14 House Church Christmas Gathering beginning with a meal at 4 pm at Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town (Elly Nelson will lead prayers with the lighting of the Menorah candle) 908-0391
21 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Finger Foods Meal
28 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr, 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church December 2014
From Wendell Berry’s “The Timbered Choir”
Remembering that it happened once,
We cannot turn away the thought,
As we go out, cold, to our barns
Toward the long night’s end, that we
Ourselves are living in the world
It happened in when it first happened,
That we ourselves, opening a stall
(A latch thrown open countless times
Before), might find them breathing there,
Foreknown: the Child bedded in straw,
The mother kneeling over Him,
The husband standing in belief
He scarcely can believe, in light
That lights them from no source we see,
An April morning’s light, the air
Around them joyful as a choir.
We stand with one hand on the door,
Looking into another world
That is this world, the pale daylight
Coming just as before, our chores
To do, the cattle all awake,
Our own white frozen breath hanging
In front of us; and we are here
As we have never been before,
Sighted as not before, our place
Holy, although we knew it not.
We wish everyone God’s warm “April’s light” this Christmas season!
Harvey and Alma Jean Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
A SPECIAL DECEMBER BIRTHDAY BLESSING to Karen Campbell 12/26!
OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS HOUSE CHURCH GATHERING at the Lodge this year is December 14, and features the lighting of a Menorah candle and prayers for Hannukah as well as a carry-in meal beginning at 4 pm and a celebration of “Jesus as Light of the World”. We will also have a children’s story, and bring food items for the Patchwork Pantry, and take up an offering for Heifer International.
* LOIS RIVERA-WENGER’s new address is 1135 Hamlet Drive, apartment A, Harrisonburg, VA 222802.
December Lectionary readings
7 Mark 1:1-8 Isaiah 40:1-11 Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 2 Peter 3:8-15a
14 John 1:6-8, 19-28 Isaiah 64:1-11 Psalm 126 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
21 Luke 1:26-38 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 Romans 16:25-27
28 Luke 2:22-40 Isaiah 61:10-62:3 Psalm 148 Galatians 4:4-7
December services worship at 4, meal at 6 (except 12/14)
7 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Lois Rivera-Wenger
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
14 House Church Christmas Gathering beginning with a meal at 4 pm at Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town (Elly Nelson will lead prayers with the lighting of the Menorah candle) 908-0391
21 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Finger Foods Meal
28 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr, 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
Monday, October 27, 2014
November 2014 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church November 2014
The Rice Bucket Challenge
- Harvey Yoder
After over a million people doused themselves with buckets of ice water to raise money for Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), a movement emerged in India called the "rice bucket challenge”.
In that country, more than 100 million people lack access to clean drinking water, so Manju Kalanidhi, a 38-year-old journalist from Hyderabad, came up with a different idea. Since a third of her people live on less that $1.25 a day, and two pounds of rice costs over half that amount, she proposed the rice bucket challenge, which works like this:
1. Fill a bucket of rice.
2. Give it to a needy individual or family nearby.
3. Post a picture on Facebook.
Thousands of people worldwide responded, and tons of rice or other foods were donated as a result.
Or here's another idea: In light of the ever worsening situation experienced by the now three million Syrian refugees alone, let's challenge ourselves and others to make generous donations to help alleviate these and other desperate needs around the world. We could call it the Bucket of Compassion Challenge, and donate through organizations like the following:
MCC U.S.
21 South 12th Street
PO Box 500
Akron, PA 17501-0500
And by the way, my Galilean financial adviser suggests we avoid a lot of fanfare when we give alms, assuring us that our real rewards will come later and in other ways.
Notes, prayers and praises
* THE TOTAL PENNY POWER OFFERING for the Relief Sale this year was $28,210.29. Our FOH amount was $143 ($233.28 last year).
NOVEMBER BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Neal Nelson 11/2, Rachel Stoltzfus 11/5, Paul Swarr 11/10, Emily Zhou 11/11, and Guy Vlasits 11/21. Neal and Elly Nelson’s 25th anniversary is November 26!
AUSTIN YOUMANS is returning to Harrisonburg in early November.
VIRGINIA MENNONITE MISSIONS’ 13th annual Festival of Praise, featuring men’s ensembles and a combined men’s choir, will be held at the EMHS auditorium Sunday, November 2, at 4 pm.
November Lectionary readings
2 Joshua 3:7-17 Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 Micah 3:5-12 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 Matthew 23:1-12
9 Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 Psalm 78:1-7 Amos 5:18-24 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Matthew 25:1-13
16 Judges 4:1-7 Psalm 123 Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Matthew 25:14-30
23 Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 Psalm 100 Eph. 1:15-23 Matthew 25:31-46
30 Deuteronomy 8:7-18 Psalm 65 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 Luke 17:11-19
November services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
2 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Lois Rivera Wenger
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
9 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Women’s Retreat group, Karla May
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry in Meal
16 Location: Joyce Ulrich 1029 Shenandoah Street 22802 246-1013
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
23 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Foods Meal
30 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr, 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Thanksgiving Meal
Family of Hope House Church November 2014
The Rice Bucket Challenge
- Harvey Yoder
After over a million people doused themselves with buckets of ice water to raise money for Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), a movement emerged in India called the "rice bucket challenge”.
In that country, more than 100 million people lack access to clean drinking water, so Manju Kalanidhi, a 38-year-old journalist from Hyderabad, came up with a different idea. Since a third of her people live on less that $1.25 a day, and two pounds of rice costs over half that amount, she proposed the rice bucket challenge, which works like this:
1. Fill a bucket of rice.
2. Give it to a needy individual or family nearby.
3. Post a picture on Facebook.
Thousands of people worldwide responded, and tons of rice or other foods were donated as a result.
Or here's another idea: In light of the ever worsening situation experienced by the now three million Syrian refugees alone, let's challenge ourselves and others to make generous donations to help alleviate these and other desperate needs around the world. We could call it the Bucket of Compassion Challenge, and donate through organizations like the following:
MCC U.S.
21 South 12th Street
PO Box 500
Akron, PA 17501-0500
And by the way, my Galilean financial adviser suggests we avoid a lot of fanfare when we give alms, assuring us that our real rewards will come later and in other ways.
Notes, prayers and praises
* THE TOTAL PENNY POWER OFFERING for the Relief Sale this year was $28,210.29. Our FOH amount was $143 ($233.28 last year).
NOVEMBER BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Neal Nelson 11/2, Rachel Stoltzfus 11/5, Paul Swarr 11/10, Emily Zhou 11/11, and Guy Vlasits 11/21. Neal and Elly Nelson’s 25th anniversary is November 26!
AUSTIN YOUMANS is returning to Harrisonburg in early November.
VIRGINIA MENNONITE MISSIONS’ 13th annual Festival of Praise, featuring men’s ensembles and a combined men’s choir, will be held at the EMHS auditorium Sunday, November 2, at 4 pm.
November Lectionary readings
2 Joshua 3:7-17 Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 Micah 3:5-12 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 Matthew 23:1-12
9 Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 Psalm 78:1-7 Amos 5:18-24 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Matthew 25:1-13
16 Judges 4:1-7 Psalm 123 Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Matthew 25:14-30
23 Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 Psalm 100 Eph. 1:15-23 Matthew 25:31-46
30 Deuteronomy 8:7-18 Psalm 65 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 Luke 17:11-19
November services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
2 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Lois Rivera Wenger
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
9 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Women’s Retreat group, Karla May
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry in Meal
16 Location: Joyce Ulrich 1029 Shenandoah Street 22802 246-1013
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
23 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Foods Meal
30 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr, 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Thanksgiving Meal
Sunday, September 28, 2014
October 2014 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church October 2014
Bombings And Beheadings Are Equally Reprehensible
- Harvey Yoder
"Do not repay evil with evil."- Jesus
All of us have been sickened to learn about videos of enemies so evil as to decapitate people in an act of revenge for our nation’s bombings in Iraq.
One U.S. response has been to launch yet more air attacks against ISIS in return for these and other acts of murder and genocide against Christians, Yazidis and Shiah Muslims in Iraq. Violence, as always, keeps on engendering more and ever worse violence.
Take aerial bombing, for example.
Victims taking a direct hit are instantly obliterated into unrecognizable bits of bone, blood, brains and other dismembered body parts. Others experience unimaginably agonizing deaths from untreatable burns and other wounds. Still others may survive but be left with injuries from which they will never recover, suffering severe impairments and loss of limbs and enduring lifelong psychological traumas.
Which act of terrorism should we consider worse, when each is unthinkably despicable?
Sadly, drone and aerial strikes have become accepted as antiseptic and routine, the equivalent of just another hit in a video game, although nothing could be further from reality.
One reality being that one day all perpetrators of any of the above acts of barbaric brutality will surely have to give an account.
Notes, prayers and praises
* A SPECIAL OCTOBER BLESSING to Elly Nelson 10/28!
* DON’T MISS THE ANNUAL MENNONITE RELIEF SALE at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds October 3-4.
* JOSIAH DUMAS’s new phone number is 571-246-0848. He is finishing a job in northern Virginia and will be looking for other work.
* LOIS RIVERA-WENGER will be returning to the area at the end of the month. Welcome back!
October Lectionary readings
5 Exodus 20:1–4, 7–9, 12–20 Psalm 19 Philippians 3:4b-14 Matthew 21:33–46
12 Exodus 32:1–14 Psalm 106:1–6, 19–23 Philippians 4:1–9 Matthew 22:1–14
19 Exodus 33:12–23 Psalm 99 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10 Matthew 22:15–22
26 Deuteronomy 34:1–12 Psalm 90:1–6, 13–17 1 Thessalonians 2:1–8
Matthew 22:34–46
October services worship at 4, meal at 6
5 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
12 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
19 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Finger Foods Meal
26 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church October 2014
Bombings And Beheadings Are Equally Reprehensible
- Harvey Yoder
"Do not repay evil with evil."- Jesus
All of us have been sickened to learn about videos of enemies so evil as to decapitate people in an act of revenge for our nation’s bombings in Iraq.
One U.S. response has been to launch yet more air attacks against ISIS in return for these and other acts of murder and genocide against Christians, Yazidis and Shiah Muslims in Iraq. Violence, as always, keeps on engendering more and ever worse violence.
Take aerial bombing, for example.
Victims taking a direct hit are instantly obliterated into unrecognizable bits of bone, blood, brains and other dismembered body parts. Others experience unimaginably agonizing deaths from untreatable burns and other wounds. Still others may survive but be left with injuries from which they will never recover, suffering severe impairments and loss of limbs and enduring lifelong psychological traumas.
Which act of terrorism should we consider worse, when each is unthinkably despicable?
Sadly, drone and aerial strikes have become accepted as antiseptic and routine, the equivalent of just another hit in a video game, although nothing could be further from reality.
One reality being that one day all perpetrators of any of the above acts of barbaric brutality will surely have to give an account.
Notes, prayers and praises
* A SPECIAL OCTOBER BLESSING to Elly Nelson 10/28!
* DON’T MISS THE ANNUAL MENNONITE RELIEF SALE at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds October 3-4.
* JOSIAH DUMAS’s new phone number is 571-246-0848. He is finishing a job in northern Virginia and will be looking for other work.
* LOIS RIVERA-WENGER will be returning to the area at the end of the month. Welcome back!
October Lectionary readings
5 Exodus 20:1–4, 7–9, 12–20 Psalm 19 Philippians 3:4b-14 Matthew 21:33–46
12 Exodus 32:1–14 Psalm 106:1–6, 19–23 Philippians 4:1–9 Matthew 22:1–14
19 Exodus 33:12–23 Psalm 99 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10 Matthew 22:15–22
26 Deuteronomy 34:1–12 Psalm 90:1–6, 13–17 1 Thessalonians 2:1–8
Matthew 22:34–46
October services worship at 4, meal at 6
5 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
12 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
19 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Finger Foods Meal
26 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
Sunday, August 31, 2014
September newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church September 2014
Blessed Beyond Belief: Fifty Years Together
Alma Jean and I experienced a once in a lifetime blessing Sunday, August 24, thanks to friends and relatives who filled the great room at the Old Massanutten Lodge to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary.
We thank Guy and Margie Vlasits for hosting this, and all who blessed us so with your presence. And a special thanks to our three children and spouses who put so much time and creativity into making it happen.
Our son Brad composed the following for his brother Brent’s and sister Joanna’s weddings in 2001, and sang it for us at our anniversary:
the ones you love are gathered ‘round
to bless the day, the love you’ve found,
with song and prayer and a joyful sound,
it’s good to be together...
as you were loved when you were small,
so may you grow, then, when you fall
you’ll get back up and shake it off,
and travel on together..
a mystery to see you through,
how 1 and 1 is more than 2,
a cord of 3 strands binding you, and
it’s not easily broken...
the simplest magic known to us:
to come to care, to learn to trust,
to love what’s there at any cost,
to learn to be together...
the ones you love are gathered ‘round
to bless the day, the love you’ve found,
with song and prayer and a joyful sound
it’s good to be together. - Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
SEPTEMBER ANNIVERSARY BLESSINGS to Billy & Karla May (9/3) and special BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to David Weaver (9/23).
THE ANNUAL MENNONITE RELIEF SALE will be held at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds October 3-4.
JOSIAH DUMAS has had to delay his enrollment at Virginia Tech due to his student loan not being approved. Pray for him as he finds employment this fall. His phone number is 571-528-6603.
September Lectionary readings
7 Exodus 12:1–14 Psalm 149 Romans 13:8–14 Matthew 18:15–20
14 Exodus 14:19–31 Exodus 15:1b-11, 20–21 Romans 14:1–12
Matthew 18:21–35
21 Exodus 16:2–15 Psalm 105:1–6, 37–45 Philippians 1:21–30 Matthew 20:1–16
28 Exodus 17:1–7 Psalm 78:1–4, 12–16 Philippians 2:1–13 Matthew 21:23–32
September services worship at 4, meal at 6
7 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
14 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
21 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Finger Foods Meal
21 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church September 2014
Blessed Beyond Belief: Fifty Years Together
Alma Jean and I experienced a once in a lifetime blessing Sunday, August 24, thanks to friends and relatives who filled the great room at the Old Massanutten Lodge to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary.
We thank Guy and Margie Vlasits for hosting this, and all who blessed us so with your presence. And a special thanks to our three children and spouses who put so much time and creativity into making it happen.
Our son Brad composed the following for his brother Brent’s and sister Joanna’s weddings in 2001, and sang it for us at our anniversary:
the ones you love are gathered ‘round
to bless the day, the love you’ve found,
with song and prayer and a joyful sound,
it’s good to be together...
as you were loved when you were small,
so may you grow, then, when you fall
you’ll get back up and shake it off,
and travel on together..
a mystery to see you through,
how 1 and 1 is more than 2,
a cord of 3 strands binding you, and
it’s not easily broken...
the simplest magic known to us:
to come to care, to learn to trust,
to love what’s there at any cost,
to learn to be together...
the ones you love are gathered ‘round
to bless the day, the love you’ve found,
with song and prayer and a joyful sound
it’s good to be together. - Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
SEPTEMBER ANNIVERSARY BLESSINGS to Billy & Karla May (9/3) and special BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to David Weaver (9/23).
THE ANNUAL MENNONITE RELIEF SALE will be held at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds October 3-4.
JOSIAH DUMAS has had to delay his enrollment at Virginia Tech due to his student loan not being approved. Pray for him as he finds employment this fall. His phone number is 571-528-6603.
September Lectionary readings
7 Exodus 12:1–14 Psalm 149 Romans 13:8–14 Matthew 18:15–20
14 Exodus 14:19–31 Exodus 15:1b-11, 20–21 Romans 14:1–12
Matthew 18:21–35
21 Exodus 16:2–15 Psalm 105:1–6, 37–45 Philippians 1:21–30 Matthew 20:1–16
28 Exodus 17:1–7 Psalm 78:1–4, 12–16 Philippians 2:1–13 Matthew 21:23–32
September services worship at 4, meal at 6
7 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
14 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
21 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Finger Foods Meal
21 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
August 24: Celebrating Fifty Years Together
 | ||||||||||||
| August 8, 1964 |
 | ||
| Celebration site August 24, 2014. Thanks, Guy and Margie! |
 |
| Beautiful singing, wonderful sharing |
 | |
| One of the songs used at our wedding at the Lancaster Mennonite School chapel |
 |
| Thanks to our wonderful family for putting this together! |
 |
| And blessings to all of you. We couldn't have lasted without your help! |
Sunday, July 27, 2014
August 2014 Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church August 2014
Anglican Rector Stephen Cherry Visits FOH
Stephen and Maggie Cherry will be with us Sunday, August 31, as a part of their visit in the area during his sabbatical leave as Canon of Durham Cathedral in England and newly appointed Dean of King’s College.
The following is from Stephen’s book Barefoot Prayers:
Breath of God
be my life this day;
be my compassion.
Breath of God,
be my connection with your
places of distress and darkness;
with your places of despair and desolation.
Breath of God,
flow where you are not expected;
flow where their is hurt and hatred.
Breath of God,
flow where life is coming to an end:
flow into the kingdom of death.
Breath of God,
flow into me, through me, from me:
as grace, as love, as Spirit, as life.
Breath of God, breath of God, breath of God,
breathe on me,
breathe with me
breathe me.
Notes, prayers and praises
ALMA JEAN AND HARVEY YODER are attending a 40th reunion of the Western Mennonite School classes of ‘72, ‘72 and ‘74 at Salem, Oregon, August 8-10. Harvey was interim principal there from ‘72-74.
AUGUST BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Gail Blackburn 8/30! Alma Jean and Harvey’s anniversary is 8/8 and James and Ruth Stauffer’s is 8/30.
August Lectionary readings
3 Genesis 32:22–31 Psalm 17:1–7, 15 Romans 9:1–5 Matthew 14:13–21
10 Genesis 37:1–4, 12–28 Psalm 105:16–22, 45b Romans 10:5–15
Matthew 14:22–33
17 Genesis 45:1–15 Psalm 133 Romans 11:1–2a, 29–32 Matthew 15:10–28
24 Exodus 1:8–2:10 Psalm 124 Romans 12:1–8 Matthew 16:13–20
31 Exodus 3:1–15 Psalm 105:23–26, 45c Romans 12:9–21 Matthew 16:21–28
August services worship at 4, meal at 6 (except 8/24)
3 Location: Joyce Ulrich 1029 Shenandoah Street 246-1013
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
10 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
17 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing:
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Foods Meal
24 Location: Guy, Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr, K’town 908-0391 2 pm 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration for Alma Jean and Harvey
31 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Anglican Rector and author Stephen Cherry Carry-in Meal
http://harvyoder.blogspot.com
Family of Hope House Church August 2014
Anglican Rector Stephen Cherry Visits FOH
Stephen and Maggie Cherry will be with us Sunday, August 31, as a part of their visit in the area during his sabbatical leave as Canon of Durham Cathedral in England and newly appointed Dean of King’s College.
The following is from Stephen’s book Barefoot Prayers:
Breath of God
be my life this day;
be my compassion.
Breath of God,
be my connection with your
places of distress and darkness;
with your places of despair and desolation.
Breath of God,
flow where you are not expected;
flow where their is hurt and hatred.
Breath of God,
flow where life is coming to an end:
flow into the kingdom of death.
Breath of God,
flow into me, through me, from me:
as grace, as love, as Spirit, as life.
Breath of God, breath of God, breath of God,
breathe on me,
breathe with me
breathe me.
Notes, prayers and praises
ALMA JEAN AND HARVEY YODER are attending a 40th reunion of the Western Mennonite School classes of ‘72, ‘72 and ‘74 at Salem, Oregon, August 8-10. Harvey was interim principal there from ‘72-74.
AUGUST BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Gail Blackburn 8/30! Alma Jean and Harvey’s anniversary is 8/8 and James and Ruth Stauffer’s is 8/30.
August Lectionary readings
3 Genesis 32:22–31 Psalm 17:1–7, 15 Romans 9:1–5 Matthew 14:13–21
10 Genesis 37:1–4, 12–28 Psalm 105:16–22, 45b Romans 10:5–15
Matthew 14:22–33
17 Genesis 45:1–15 Psalm 133 Romans 11:1–2a, 29–32 Matthew 15:10–28
24 Exodus 1:8–2:10 Psalm 124 Romans 12:1–8 Matthew 16:13–20
31 Exodus 3:1–15 Psalm 105:23–26, 45c Romans 12:9–21 Matthew 16:21–28
August services worship at 4, meal at 6 (except 8/24)
3 Location: Joyce Ulrich 1029 Shenandoah Street 246-1013
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
10 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
17 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing:
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Foods Meal
24 Location: Guy, Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr, K’town 908-0391 2 pm 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration for Alma Jean and Harvey
31 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Anglican Rector and author Stephen Cherry Carry-in Meal
http://harvyoder.blogspot.com
Sunday, June 29, 2014
July 2014 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church July 2014
Virginia Conference Assembly July 24-26
Thursday, July 24 7:00-8:30 pm
Speaker: Clyde Kratz
Friday, July 25 8:30 am
Bible Study: Roy Hange
Delegate Session #1
12:00 Lunch
1 pm Delegate Session #2
3:15-3:30 pm Workshop Session #1
5:00 Dinner
7:00-8:30 pm
Speaker: Aaron Kauffman
Saturday, July 26 7-8 pm
Mennonite Women’s Breakfast with Laura Campbell
Mennonite Men’s Breakfast
8:15-9:30
Workshop Session #2
9:45-10:30
Bible study: Maren Hange
10:30-12:15
Missional story and Delegate Session #3
Notes, prayers and praises
BE IN PRAYER FOR THE VIRGINIA CONFERENCE ASSEMBLY at the Trinity Presbyterian Church at 3101 Fontaine Ave Exd, Charlottesville, VA, July 24-26.
JULY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Lois Rivera-Wenger 7/30 and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to Guy and Margie Vlasits 7/27!
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER’s address through most of the rest of the summer will be 1317 Lake Access Road, Smithfield, KY 40068.
JOSIAH DUMAS is at 6800 Sepon Court, Springfield, VA 22152.
July Lectionary readings
6 Genesis 24:34–38, 42–49,58–67 Psalm 45:10–17 Romans 7:15–25a Matthew 11:16–19, 25–30
13 Genesis 25:19–34 Psalm 25 Romans 8:1–11 Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23
20 Genesis 28:10–19a Psalm 139:1–12, 23–24 Romans 8:12–25
Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43
27 Genesis 29:15–28 Psalm 105:1–11, 45b Romans 8:26–39
Matthew 13:31–33, 44–52
July services worship at 4, meal at 6
6 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Lois Wenger
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
13 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Speakers with Wycliffe Carry-in Meal
20 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits 908-0391
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
27 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Finger Foods Meal
Family of Hope House Church July 2014
Virginia Conference Assembly July 24-26
Thursday, July 24 7:00-8:30 pm
Speaker: Clyde Kratz
Friday, July 25 8:30 am
Bible Study: Roy Hange
Delegate Session #1
12:00 Lunch
1 pm Delegate Session #2
3:15-3:30 pm Workshop Session #1
5:00 Dinner
7:00-8:30 pm
Speaker: Aaron Kauffman
Saturday, July 26 7-8 pm
Mennonite Women’s Breakfast with Laura Campbell
Mennonite Men’s Breakfast
8:15-9:30
Workshop Session #2
9:45-10:30
Bible study: Maren Hange
10:30-12:15
Missional story and Delegate Session #3
Notes, prayers and praises
BE IN PRAYER FOR THE VIRGINIA CONFERENCE ASSEMBLY at the Trinity Presbyterian Church at 3101 Fontaine Ave Exd, Charlottesville, VA, July 24-26.
JULY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Lois Rivera-Wenger 7/30 and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to Guy and Margie Vlasits 7/27!
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER’s address through most of the rest of the summer will be 1317 Lake Access Road, Smithfield, KY 40068.
JOSIAH DUMAS is at 6800 Sepon Court, Springfield, VA 22152.
July Lectionary readings
6 Genesis 24:34–38, 42–49,58–67 Psalm 45:10–17 Romans 7:15–25a Matthew 11:16–19, 25–30
13 Genesis 25:19–34 Psalm 25 Romans 8:1–11 Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23
20 Genesis 28:10–19a Psalm 139:1–12, 23–24 Romans 8:12–25
Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43
27 Genesis 29:15–28 Psalm 105:1–11, 45b Romans 8:26–39
Matthew 13:31–33, 44–52
July services worship at 4, meal at 6
6 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Lois Wenger
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
13 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Speakers with Wycliffe Carry-in Meal
20 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits 908-0391
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
27 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Finger Foods Meal
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Annual Recovenanting Sunday--Pentecost 2014
FAMILY OF HOPE--WHO ARE WE?
We are followers of Jesus. We believe in one God as revealed most fully in the life, teaching, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christ is our Lord and Leader, the foundation of our faith, and the basis of our new birth and of our life together as a family of God. We base our faith on the Bible. We do not claim to understand or to live it perfectly, but we embrace the Bible as the trustworthy and inspired Word of God.
We are members of God's worldwide family. Our spiritual roots, like those of all Christians, go back to the story of God's people in the Old Testament. Likewise, we are a part of the universal Christian church, the story of which begins in the New Testament--when the power of God's Spirit was poured out on the first century followers of Jesus.
In our faith, we affirm the ancient creeds of the early Christian church. We are also spiritual heirs of the sixteenth century Reformation, which emphasizes salvation by faith, and of the Anabaptist wing of that Reformation, which stresses voluntary adult baptism as a pledge of covenant with Christ and the church.
We are a part of the Mennonite Church. While we see ourselves first of all as members of God's worldwide family, we are linked with the Mennonite family of churches in our concern for Christ's example of a life of simplicity and peace, and in our support of that denomination's mission, relief, education and publishing efforts.
We are a living, growing and serving local family of faith:
LIVING: Together we are experiencing a new life in Christ. By saying No to a life of sin and self-centeredness and saying Yes to a life of faithfulness to Christ, we receive God's gift of forgiveness and God's power to live a new and joy-filled life. Our desire is to be a community of people who love God above every other love or loyalty and who love our neighbors and even our enemies as Christ taught us.
GROWING: Together we want to experience more and more of the spirit of Jesus in our lives. To help us in this, we urge the practice of spiritual disciplines of prayer and the study of scripture, accountable relationships with others, and regular attendance at house church meetings for worship, study and fellowship. We also want to be a caring church family, using our God-given gifts to encourage each other to grow as Christians and to welcome others into our "family of hope".
SERVING: Together we want to respond to God's call to continue the kinds of proclaiming and healing ministries Jesus began when he was here on earth. We are committed to being the servants of Christ for the world, calling people to faith and caring deeply about their hurts and needs. We urge Christians to give at least a tithe (10%) of their working hours and of their incomes for direct service to others through the church.
Above all, we want to live a celebrative and joyful life together as children of God. We eagerly look forward to the time when Jesus, our Lord and King, will return to earth to establish God's rule of peace and justice over all creation. This is our hope and confidence.
We are followers of Jesus. We believe in one God as revealed most fully in the life, teaching, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christ is our Lord and Leader, the foundation of our faith, and the basis of our new birth and of our life together as a family of God. We base our faith on the Bible. We do not claim to understand or to live it perfectly, but we embrace the Bible as the trustworthy and inspired Word of God.
We are members of God's worldwide family. Our spiritual roots, like those of all Christians, go back to the story of God's people in the Old Testament. Likewise, we are a part of the universal Christian church, the story of which begins in the New Testament--when the power of God's Spirit was poured out on the first century followers of Jesus.
In our faith, we affirm the ancient creeds of the early Christian church. We are also spiritual heirs of the sixteenth century Reformation, which emphasizes salvation by faith, and of the Anabaptist wing of that Reformation, which stresses voluntary adult baptism as a pledge of covenant with Christ and the church.
We are a part of the Mennonite Church. While we see ourselves first of all as members of God's worldwide family, we are linked with the Mennonite family of churches in our concern for Christ's example of a life of simplicity and peace, and in our support of that denomination's mission, relief, education and publishing efforts.
We are a living, growing and serving local family of faith:
LIVING: Together we are experiencing a new life in Christ. By saying No to a life of sin and self-centeredness and saying Yes to a life of faithfulness to Christ, we receive God's gift of forgiveness and God's power to live a new and joy-filled life. Our desire is to be a community of people who love God above every other love or loyalty and who love our neighbors and even our enemies as Christ taught us.
GROWING: Together we want to experience more and more of the spirit of Jesus in our lives. To help us in this, we urge the practice of spiritual disciplines of prayer and the study of scripture, accountable relationships with others, and regular attendance at house church meetings for worship, study and fellowship. We also want to be a caring church family, using our God-given gifts to encourage each other to grow as Christians and to welcome others into our "family of hope".
SERVING: Together we want to respond to God's call to continue the kinds of proclaiming and healing ministries Jesus began when he was here on earth. We are committed to being the servants of Christ for the world, calling people to faith and caring deeply about their hurts and needs. We urge Christians to give at least a tithe (10%) of their working hours and of their incomes for direct service to others through the church.
Above all, we want to live a celebrative and joyful life together as children of God. We eagerly look forward to the time when Jesus, our Lord and King, will return to earth to establish God's rule of peace and justice over all creation. This is our hope and confidence.
revised 6/14
Sunday, May 25, 2014
June 2014 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church June 2014
Had the sharing spirit of Pentecost continued, Christians could have saved the planet
The first believers at Pentecost took that teaching seriously. Had Christians continued to do so through the centuries, the very earth we live on might have averted disaster.
Unfortunately, most of the world’s so-called Christians have become known as being among the most ravenous and reckless consumers of all time, promoting a way of life that is wrecking the planet, exhausting its resources and poisoning its atmosphere.
What would have happened if those who professed to follow Jesus would have from the beginning taken him far more seriously when it comes to sharing wealth with those in need rather than storing up more and more earthly treasure for our own comfort, convenience or self-indulgence? Trillions could have been saved through investing in plowshares instead of swords and through spending on human need rather than on human greed. Hunger, malnutrition, homelessness and many diseases could have been virtually eliminated if the rate of consumption had been reduced and wealth more equitably shared.
One day we may all realize, too late, that Jesus was not simply giving humanity some good sounding but optional financial advice in the gospels, but a mandate that could prove to be the only way we could all survive.
But alas, professed Christians, on the whole, have been no more Christ-like when it comes to their rate of consumption than unbelievers in general. Is that sad or what? - Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
OUR ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP COVENANTING is on Pentecost Day, June 8, and will be followed by a very simple Lord’s Supper meal.
PRAY FOR THE UNITY and healing of the Virginia Mennonite Conference as it anticipates its summer assembly in July.
JUNE BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Sophie May, 6/2, Josiah Dumas 6/9, Karla May 6/16, Isaiah May, 6/27 and Harvey Yoder 6/30!
LET’S REMEMBER JOSIAH DUMAS, whose summer address is 6800 Sepon Court, Springfield, VA 22152.
June Lectionary readings
1 Acts 1:6-14 Psa 68:1-10, 32-35 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 John 17:1-11
8 Acts 2:1-21 Psalm 104:24-35 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13 John 20:19-23
15 Genesis 1:1-2:4a Psalm 8 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 Matthew 28:16-20
22 Genesis 21:8-21 Psalm 17 Romans 6:1b-11 Matthew 10:24-39
28 Genesis 22:1–14 Psalm 13 Romans 6:12–23 Matthew 10:40–42
June services worship at 4, meal at 6
1 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
8 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Pentecost Worship and Sharing: Lois Wenger
Covenanting Sunday Study: Harvey Yoder Lord’s Supper Meal
15 Location: Virginia Mennonite Missions 901 Parkwood Drive 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Ken Horst, Virginia Mennonite Missions Finger Foods
22 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits 908-0391
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
28 Location: tSusan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church June 2014
Had the sharing spirit of Pentecost continued, Christians could have saved the planet
Sell what you have and give to those in need. Luke 12:33
We tend to dismiss such words as among the sayings of Jesus that no
reasonable person could ever put into practice. But Jesus insists that
when we invest in the needs of our fellow human beings rather than in
ever more consumer goods, we are putting our money where it really
produces the best returns and brings the most possible gain.The first believers at Pentecost took that teaching seriously. Had Christians continued to do so through the centuries, the very earth we live on might have averted disaster.
Unfortunately, most of the world’s so-called Christians have become known as being among the most ravenous and reckless consumers of all time, promoting a way of life that is wrecking the planet, exhausting its resources and poisoning its atmosphere.
What would have happened if those who professed to follow Jesus would have from the beginning taken him far more seriously when it comes to sharing wealth with those in need rather than storing up more and more earthly treasure for our own comfort, convenience or self-indulgence? Trillions could have been saved through investing in plowshares instead of swords and through spending on human need rather than on human greed. Hunger, malnutrition, homelessness and many diseases could have been virtually eliminated if the rate of consumption had been reduced and wealth more equitably shared.
One day we may all realize, too late, that Jesus was not simply giving humanity some good sounding but optional financial advice in the gospels, but a mandate that could prove to be the only way we could all survive.
But alas, professed Christians, on the whole, have been no more Christ-like when it comes to their rate of consumption than unbelievers in general. Is that sad or what? - Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
OUR ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP COVENANTING is on Pentecost Day, June 8, and will be followed by a very simple Lord’s Supper meal.
PRAY FOR THE UNITY and healing of the Virginia Mennonite Conference as it anticipates its summer assembly in July.
JUNE BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Sophie May, 6/2, Josiah Dumas 6/9, Karla May 6/16, Isaiah May, 6/27 and Harvey Yoder 6/30!
LET’S REMEMBER JOSIAH DUMAS, whose summer address is 6800 Sepon Court, Springfield, VA 22152.
June Lectionary readings
1 Acts 1:6-14 Psa 68:1-10, 32-35 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 John 17:1-11
8 Acts 2:1-21 Psalm 104:24-35 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13 John 20:19-23
15 Genesis 1:1-2:4a Psalm 8 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 Matthew 28:16-20
22 Genesis 21:8-21 Psalm 17 Romans 6:1b-11 Matthew 10:24-39
28 Genesis 22:1–14 Psalm 13 Romans 6:12–23 Matthew 10:40–42
June services worship at 4, meal at 6
1 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
8 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Pentecost Worship and Sharing: Lois Wenger
Covenanting Sunday Study: Harvey Yoder Lord’s Supper Meal
15 Location: Virginia Mennonite Missions 901 Parkwood Drive 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Ken Horst, Virginia Mennonite Missions Finger Foods
22 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits 908-0391
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
28 Location: tSusan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Sunday, April 27, 2014
May 2014 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church May 2014
Notes, prayers and praises
KAREN CAMPBELL had her gall bladder surgery Wednesday, 4/16.
A COMMISSIONING SERVICE FOR MARGIE VLASITS and others going on a May 2-19 work and study trip to Israel-Palestine will be held 7:30 pm May 1 at Community Mennonite. All are welcome.
MAY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Margie Vlastis 5/1, Alma Jean Yoder 5/15 and Karen Soich 5/20!
CONGRATULATIONS on Josiah Dumas’s graduation May 10!
May Lectionary readings
4 Acts 2:36–41 Psalm 116:1–4, 12–19 1 Peter 1:17–23 Luke 24:13–35
11 Acts 2:42-47 Psalm 23 1 Peter 2:19–25 John 10:1–10
18 Acts 7:55-60 Psalm 31:1–5, 15–16 1 Peter 2:2–10 John 14:1–14
25 Acts 17:22-31Psalm 66:8–20 1 Peter 3:13–22 John 14:15–21
May services worship (at 3:59)
4 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
11 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Food Meal
18 Location: Lois Rivera-Wenger 204 Homes Lane, Staunton
Worship and Sharing: 502-663-3195
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
25 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town
Worship and Sharing: Margie Vlasits 908-0391
Bible Study/Trip Report: Margie Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church May 2014
Notes, prayers and praises
KAREN CAMPBELL had her gall bladder surgery Wednesday, 4/16.
A COMMISSIONING SERVICE FOR MARGIE VLASITS and others going on a May 2-19 work and study trip to Israel-Palestine will be held 7:30 pm May 1 at Community Mennonite. All are welcome.
MAY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Margie Vlastis 5/1, Alma Jean Yoder 5/15 and Karen Soich 5/20!
CONGRATULATIONS on Josiah Dumas’s graduation May 10!
May Lectionary readings
4 Acts 2:36–41 Psalm 116:1–4, 12–19 1 Peter 1:17–23 Luke 24:13–35
11 Acts 2:42-47 Psalm 23 1 Peter 2:19–25 John 10:1–10
18 Acts 7:55-60 Psalm 31:1–5, 15–16 1 Peter 2:2–10 John 14:1–14
25 Acts 17:22-31Psalm 66:8–20 1 Peter 3:13–22 John 14:15–21
May services worship (at 3:59)
4 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
11 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Food Meal
18 Location: Lois Rivera-Wenger 204 Homes Lane, Staunton
Worship and Sharing: 502-663-3195
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
25 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Drive, K’town
Worship and Sharing: Margie Vlasits 908-0391
Bible Study/Trip Report: Margie Carry-in Meal
Sunday, March 30, 2014
April 2014 Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church
April 2014
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
To be truly well we need to practice doing what well people do
Truly well people drink daily from the well of Living Water.
Truly well people avoid seeing themselves as victims, and cultivate a spirit of gratitude to God and others rather than nursing grievances.
Truly well people are intentional about expanding their circle of good relationships (as in a supportive faith community) rather than isolating themselves from others.
Truly well people are generous in sharing what they have with others rather than hoarding more for themselves.
Truly well people engage in plenty of good physical activity rather than living sedentary lives.
Truly well people operate on the basis of their faith rather than their worst-case fears.
Truly well people treat their bodies and minds as gifts to be given the best possible care.
Truly well people have a sense of mission and purpose that goes beyond their immediate personal interests, but which they also know is in their (and others') best interests.
Wellness is a priceless, but nevertheless costly, gift to be treasured for a lifetime.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
OUR EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE and breakfast will be at the Vlasits April 20!
THE STORY OF ELIAS CHACOUR, a Palestinian church leader, will be featured in a film shown at the seminary at 7 pm April 16.
PRAY FOR KAREN CAMPBELL, scheduled for gall bladder surgery at the Woodstock Hospital Monday, April 7.
WE CONTINUE USING Stephen Cherry’s Barefoot Prayers for our Lenten devotional reading. Cherry pastors the Durham Cathedral in Ireland and plans to visit this area (and our church!) in August.
APRIL BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Bertha Swarr 4/13, Jack (Hong
Yan) Zhou 4/14, Cathy Atwell 4/19, Bo Hu 4/20 and Randy May 4/21!
April Lectionary readings
6 Ezekiel 37:1–14 Psalm 130 Romans 8:6–11 John 11:1–45
13 Matthew 21:1–11 Psalm 118:1–29 Isaiah 50:4–9 Psalm 31:9–16 Philippians 2:5–11 Matthew 26:14–27:66 Matthew 27:11–54
20 Acts 10:34-43 Psalm 118:1–2, 14–24 Colossians 3:1–4 John 20:1–18
or Matthew 28:1–10
27 Acts 2:14a, 22–32 Psalm 16 1 Peter 1:3–9 John 20:19–31
April services worship at 3:59, meal at 6 (except 4/20)
6 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
13 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Food Meal
20 Easter Sunrise Service: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr K’town 908-0391
8 am Worship at the caverns entrance, with meditation by James Stauffer, followed by a celebration of Easter singing and breakfast!
27 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr. 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Drink Deep Of Living Water
This was for the closing part of our lectionary-based Bible study last Sunday on "Wells and Weddings"
Romans 5:1-11 Let the thirsty come
We have been made right with God because of our faith.
Drink deep faith.
Now we have peace with him because of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Drink deep peace.
Through faith in Jesus we have received God’s grace. In that grace we stand.
Drink deep grace.
We are full of joy because we expect to share in God’s glory.
Drink deep joy.
And that’s not all. We are full of joy even when we suffer. We know that our suffering gives us the strength to go on.
Drink deep strength.
The strength to go on produces character. Character produces hope.
Drink deep hope.
And hope will never let us down. God has poured his love into our hearts.
Drink deep love.
He did it through the Holy Spirit, whom he has given to us.
Drink deep Holy Spirit.
At just the right time Christ died for ungodly people. He died for us when we had no power of our own.
Drink deep deliverance.
It is unusual for anyone to die for a godly person. Maybe someone would be willing to die for a good person. But here is how God has shown his love for us. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Drink deep atonement.
The blood of Christ has made us right with God. So we are even more sure that Jesus will save us from God’s anger.
Drink deep salvation.
Once we were God’s enemies. But we have been reconciled to him because his Son has died for us.
Drink deep reconciliation.
Now that God has brought us back, we are even more secure. We know that we will be saved because Christ lives.
Drink deep security.
And that is not all. We are full of joy in God because of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of him, God has brought us back to himself.
Drink deep love and belonging.
Romans 5:1-11 Let the thirsty come
We have been made right with God because of our faith.
Drink deep faith.
Now we have peace with him because of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Drink deep peace.
Through faith in Jesus we have received God’s grace. In that grace we stand.
Drink deep grace.
We are full of joy because we expect to share in God’s glory.
Drink deep joy.
And that’s not all. We are full of joy even when we suffer. We know that our suffering gives us the strength to go on.
Drink deep strength.
The strength to go on produces character. Character produces hope.
Drink deep hope.
And hope will never let us down. God has poured his love into our hearts.
Drink deep love.
He did it through the Holy Spirit, whom he has given to us.
Drink deep Holy Spirit.
At just the right time Christ died for ungodly people. He died for us when we had no power of our own.
Drink deep deliverance.
It is unusual for anyone to die for a godly person. Maybe someone would be willing to die for a good person. But here is how God has shown his love for us. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Drink deep atonement.
The blood of Christ has made us right with God. So we are even more sure that Jesus will save us from God’s anger.
Drink deep salvation.
Once we were God’s enemies. But we have been reconciled to him because his Son has died for us.
Drink deep reconciliation.
Now that God has brought us back, we are even more secure. We know that we will be saved because Christ lives.
Drink deep security.
And that is not all. We are full of joy in God because of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of him, God has brought us back to himself.
Drink deep love and belonging.
Monday, February 24, 2014
March 2014 Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church March 2014
A letter from Buckingham prison
Dear Pastor Yoder,
I want to apologize because our brief relationship has always revolved around me and my efforts to seek justice for parole eligible prisoners. I am writing today to ask how I can help you.
Do you or any of your friends have any prayer requests? I would be honored and blessed to lift these prayers to the throne of grace. I can also share them with our prayer team here. I know that some strongholds can only be brought down through prayer, and I am willing to join you, your church, and your friends in prayer. I know God is able.
When I was at Keen Mountain the Lord woke me up one morning at 4:20 am. When I woke my heart was heavy with thoughts of my mother. I began to pray for her earnestly. don’t remember how long I prayed, I just prayed until that peace came over me and I drifted back to sleep. The next day I tried calling my mom and could not reach her. The following day I spoke to her and learned that at the very minute the Lord woke me up my mother was calling 911 because of chest pains. She hadn’t answered the day before because she was in in the hospital with congestive heart failure.
God is so good! At my mother’s hour of need, He woke me up to pray for her!
I will be reviewed for parole in April. I am not asking for a letter or anything else other than to pray and agree that God’s will be done. I am praying that this will be the year, not because of my litigation or other efforts regarding parole, but because I am persuaded and convinced that God has called me me to serve him the remaining days of my life.
Family of Hope House Church March 2014
A letter from Buckingham prison
Dear Pastor Yoder,
I want to apologize because our brief relationship has always revolved around me and my efforts to seek justice for parole eligible prisoners. I am writing today to ask how I can help you.
Do you or any of your friends have any prayer requests? I would be honored and blessed to lift these prayers to the throne of grace. I can also share them with our prayer team here. I know that some strongholds can only be brought down through prayer, and I am willing to join you, your church, and your friends in prayer. I know God is able.
When I was at Keen Mountain the Lord woke me up one morning at 4:20 am. When I woke my heart was heavy with thoughts of my mother. I began to pray for her earnestly. don’t remember how long I prayed, I just prayed until that peace came over me and I drifted back to sleep. The next day I tried calling my mom and could not reach her. The following day I spoke to her and learned that at the very minute the Lord woke me up my mother was calling 911 because of chest pains. She hadn’t answered the day before because she was in in the hospital with congestive heart failure.
God is so good! At my mother’s hour of need, He woke me up to pray for her!
I will be reviewed for parole in April. I am not asking for a letter or anything else other than to pray and agree that God’s will be done. I am praying that this will be the year, not because of my litigation or other efforts regarding parole, but because I am persuaded and convinced that God has called me me to serve him the remaining days of my life.
Steve Goodman1028377, BKCC, Box 430, Dillwyn, VA 23936
Notes, prayers and praises
* PRAY FOR BILLY MAY’s ongoing health problems.
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER will be leaving later in March to be with daughters and grandchildren, and plans to return in July.
MARCH BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Ruth Stauffer 3/28!
WE WILL BE using Stephen Cherry’s Barefoot Prayers for devotional reading during Lent. Cherry is the pastor at the Durham Cathedral in Ireland and plans to visit this area (and our church!) in late August.
March Lectionary readings
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER will be leaving later in March to be with daughters and grandchildren, and plans to return in July.
MARCH BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Ruth Stauffer 3/28!
WE WILL BE using Stephen Cherry’s Barefoot Prayers for devotional reading during Lent. Cherry is the pastor at the Durham Cathedral in Ireland and plans to visit this area (and our church!) in late August.
March Lectionary readings
2 Exodus 24:12–18 Psalm 99 2 Peter 1:16–21 Matthew 17:1-16
9 Genesis 2:15–17; 3:1–7 Psalm 32 Romans 5:12–19 Matthew 4:1–11
16 Genesis 12:1–4a Psalm 121 Romans 4:1–5, 13–17 John 3:1–17
23 Exodus 17:1–7 Psalm 95 Romans 5:1–11 John 4:5–42
30 1 Samuel 16:1–13 Psalm 23 Ephesians 5:8–14 John 9:1–41
March services worship at 3:59, meal at 6
9 Genesis 2:15–17; 3:1–7 Psalm 32 Romans 5:12–19 Matthew 4:1–11
16 Genesis 12:1–4a Psalm 121 Romans 4:1–5, 13–17 John 3:1–17
23 Exodus 17:1–7 Psalm 95 Romans 5:1–11 John 4:5–42
30 1 Samuel 16:1–13 Psalm 23 Ephesians 5:8–14 John 9:1–41
March services worship at 3:59, meal at 6
2 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study on Biblical fasting: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
9 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and sharing: Lois Wenger
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Communion and Fasting, No Meal
16 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr K’town 908-0391
Worship and sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
23 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr. 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
30 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr K’town 908-0391
Worship and sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Daryl Byler Carry-in Meal
http://harvyoder.blogspot.com
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study on Biblical fasting: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
9 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and sharing: Lois Wenger
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Communion and Fasting, No Meal
16 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr K’town 908-0391
Worship and sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
23 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr. 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
30 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr K’town 908-0391
Worship and sharing: Elly Nelson
Bible Study: Daryl Byler Carry-in Meal
Sunday, February 16, 2014
25th Anniversary Celebration For Elly and Neal Nelson February 2!
 |
| Neal and Elly at the Vlasits Lodge |
We are One in The Spirit,
We are One in The Lord.
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored.
Chorus:
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love,
And they'll know we are Christians by our love.
We will work with each other,
We will work side by side.
And we'll guard each man's dignity And save each man's pride.
Chorus:
We will walk with each other,
We will walk hand in hand.
And together we'll spread the news that God is in our land.
Chorus:
A reading from Deuteronomy: Elly Nelson
Sentence prayers and praises “Lord hear our prayer...” “Lord, hear our praise...”
“In the bulb there is the flower”
Meditation: Harvey Yoder
“Since First My Soul Was Knit to Thine”: Harvey and Alma Jean
Renewal of Marriage Pledge
"Whither Thou Goest": David Weaver
"Joyful, joyful we adore thee"
Benediction
Blest be the tie that binds
Elly wrote this note of appreciation after the event:
To say that Neal and I have been basking in the outpouring of love that surrounded us last Sunday, the second day of February, as we recommitted our lives to one another and to the Lord, would be an understatement.
It is quite impossible for anyone to reach the ages
that we have attained and to have escaped days that will be forever etched in
memory. Sometimes, those days we
remember were heavy with sorrow.
Sometimes those days we remember are bathed in the glow of pure joy.
The events of
this past Sunday fell handily into the second column, seizing a place at the
very top of our list, where they shall remain as a crown jewel for the rest of
our days.
To our utter delight, following the songs of praise
and adoration that had been on our lips all week, even a special favorite, “Let
All Things Now Living Give Praise and Thanksgiving”, Harvey lead us to a deep
study of Micah 6:8, where we could all explore the keys to rewarding and
fulfilling relationships,
We were blessed beyond measure to have Alma Jean and
Harvey join their exquisite voices to provide the brushstrokes of a song that
paints a picture of two souls knit together as one kindred spirit with the Lord
reigning over their hearts and lives.
And then we were treated to a song from David Weaver as
well!
The anticipation had reached a crescendo when Harvey
announced that it was time – it was time for us to come before a cloud of
witnesses, to profess our love for each other and to reaffirm our vows. I had been watching the faces of our
friends, our family – Margie and Guy and Kathy and Karen (who made us a very
special and outrageously delicious cake), Lois (who organized and wrote such
heart-moving words), and Carla and Ruth and Jim – Susan and Karen and Alma Jean
and Harvey and David, thinking how dearly I love each and every one, and of the
outpouring of love that emanated from each precious sister and brother who was
about to bear witness to our vows of recommitment to uphold and nurture one
another in our walk with the Lord, individually and
together.
When Neal and I spoke those words to one another a
quarter century ago that joined us at the heart, the chapel was filled with
Neal’s family and friends, I knew only two people in attendance, the man I was
about to wed to and my mother. This
time, we spoke words we did not speak before – ani l’dodi, v’dodi li, I am my
beloved’s and my beloved is mine, and we spoke them before a family we did not
then know, but a family we love so dearly that we could exhort each to join with
us to recommit our very lives to the King of Kings Who reigns over our
lives.
Our hearts are full. Our hearts are grateful for all the work
everyone did to make this the crown jewel of our happy days to remember. To each member of our family, our Family
of Hope, we say thank you, and for each, we pray a blessing beyond
measure.
In His love,
Elly and Neal.
Sunday, January 26, 2014
February 2014 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church February 2014
A thank you from Korea
At our 1/12/14 church business meeting we agreed to give $2000 of our budget surplus to the Daryl and Cindy Byler scholarship fund for international students at EMU’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding. We chose to do this in memory of 21-year-old Korean student, Doyeon Han, the only child of Young-Che Ki and Huang-Soon Kang, who died January 1 after being struck by several vehicles on Rt. 42. This is from her parents:
Dear Pastor Harvey Yoder,
I am Doyeon’s father. I was crying over and over holding my daughter with heartbreaking grief when arriving Harrisonburg. I was overwhelmed by sorrow and pain. The situation seemed too difficult for me to bear.
However, in virtue of encouragement and condolences from Park View church, the pastor of Korean church in Harrisonburg, the Korean community, and people at EMU, my family and I could find peace of mind. My family will never forget your careful concern and help.
My family members also appreciate the EMU’s scholarship in memory of Doyeon.
Thank you for your love. Thank you and thank you.
I believe Doyeon is now smiling beside Our Lord.
My family will remember your love forever.
Sincerely,
Young-Che Ki
Notes, prayers and praises
MINUTES OF OUR 1/12/14 church business meeting are posted at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com
BILLY MAY’s surgery was postponed until more tests can be done.
FEBRUARY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS Trish Levesque 2/23, at 17600 14th Avenue North, Apt. 127, Plymouth, MN 55447-2951.
KAREN CAMPBELL’S new email address is karenec88@gmail.com and her phone number is 540-244-5521.
Lectionary readings
2 Micah 6:1-8 Psalm 15 I Corinthians 1:18-31 Matthew 5:1-12
9 Isaiah 58:1-12 Psalm 112:1-10 I Corinthians 2:1-16 Matt 5:13-20
16 Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Psalm 119:1-8 I Cor 3:1-9 Matt 5:21-37
23 Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 Psalm 119:33-40 I Cor 3:10-23 Matt 5:38-48
February services worship at 3:59, meal at 6
2 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391 25th Anniversary celebration for Elly and Neal, with worship and sharing led by Lois Wenger and David Weaver and a Bible Study by Harvey Yoder Carry-in meal
9 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
16 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Foods Meal
23 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Elly Neal Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church February 2014
A thank you from Korea
At our 1/12/14 church business meeting we agreed to give $2000 of our budget surplus to the Daryl and Cindy Byler scholarship fund for international students at EMU’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding. We chose to do this in memory of 21-year-old Korean student, Doyeon Han, the only child of Young-Che Ki and Huang-Soon Kang, who died January 1 after being struck by several vehicles on Rt. 42. This is from her parents:
Dear Pastor Harvey Yoder,
I am Doyeon’s father. I was crying over and over holding my daughter with heartbreaking grief when arriving Harrisonburg. I was overwhelmed by sorrow and pain. The situation seemed too difficult for me to bear.
However, in virtue of encouragement and condolences from Park View church, the pastor of Korean church in Harrisonburg, the Korean community, and people at EMU, my family and I could find peace of mind. My family will never forget your careful concern and help.
My family members also appreciate the EMU’s scholarship in memory of Doyeon.
Thank you for your love. Thank you and thank you.
I believe Doyeon is now smiling beside Our Lord.
My family will remember your love forever.
Sincerely,
Young-Che Ki
Notes, prayers and praises
MINUTES OF OUR 1/12/14 church business meeting are posted at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com
BILLY MAY’s surgery was postponed until more tests can be done.
FEBRUARY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS Trish Levesque 2/23, at 17600 14th Avenue North, Apt. 127, Plymouth, MN 55447-2951.
KAREN CAMPBELL’S new email address is karenec88@gmail.com and her phone number is 540-244-5521.
Lectionary readings
2 Micah 6:1-8 Psalm 15 I Corinthians 1:18-31 Matthew 5:1-12
9 Isaiah 58:1-12 Psalm 112:1-10 I Corinthians 2:1-16 Matt 5:13-20
16 Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Psalm 119:1-8 I Cor 3:1-9 Matt 5:21-37
23 Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 Psalm 119:33-40 I Cor 3:10-23 Matt 5:38-48
February services worship at 3:59, meal at 6
2 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391 25th Anniversary celebration for Elly and Neal, with worship and sharing led by Lois Wenger and David Weaver and a Bible Study by Harvey Yoder Carry-in meal
9 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
16 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Finger Foods Meal
23 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Elly Neal Carry-in Meal
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
FOH Annual Business Meeting and Worship Service
To read Harvey Yoder'st post, "A Business Meeting For A Small Church" check the 1/13/14 Harvspot blog.
Family of Hope Business Meeting
Guy and
Margie Vlasits
January 12, 2014, 4 pm
January 12, 2014, 4 pm
Members
present: Susan Campbell, Dick Dumas, Karla May, James Stauffer, Ruth Stauffer,
Guy Vlasits, Margie Vlasits, Harvey Yoder, Alma Jean Yoder, David Weaver, Lois
Rivera-Wenger, Josiah Dumas, Karen Campbell, Cathy Atwell, Karen Soich.
1.
Congregational singing, followed by Bible Study and prayer. Harvey
Yoder led a study on Acts 10:34-43 and what it means to be a "missional"
church and what might be a good "mission statement" (statement of purpose)
for Family of Hope.
2.
Last year's minutes were reviewed and approved.
3. Susan
Campbell gave a treasurer's report showing an income of $15,736.87 in 2013.
a. Agreed that $300.00 of our surplus funds be allocated to the Van denessems, missionaries to Asia, $500.00 to Open Doors (formerly HARTS thermal shelter) and $2000.00 for
a scholarship fund for EMU's Center for Justice and Peacebuilding (as advocated by CJP's Daryl Byler). The latter fund is to be set up as a
memorial educational scholarship in the name of Doyeon Ki, the 21-year-old Korean student at EMU who died in a traffic accident
on January 1, 2014.
b. An additional $500.00 is to be
allocated to the Vlasits for the purchase of four 6-foot and four 8-foot folding tables for the Lodge.
c. Susan was given approval to purchase new checks for the church's use with Susan's name and address imprinted on them.
c. Susan was given approval to purchase new checks for the church's use with Susan's name and address imprinted on them.
4.
The 2014 giving plan was adopted, with a total giving goal of $18,000.
5.
Susan Campbell was nominated and approved to
continue as FOH as Treasurer on the Leadership Team. Karen Soich will serve as
secretary on a volunteer basis.
6.
The Lord's Supper was observed with a family
style meal following the end of the business meeting.
Adjournment
Karen Soich, secretary (from notes by outgoing secretary Karla May)
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Twelfth Night Celebration at the Stauffers
 |
| Russian Krendl bread |
Traditionally, Twelfth Night has been a night of merry making, as in Shakespeare's play by that name. While we Mennonites are not known to be great at making merry, we did our best in belting out our favorite Christmas carols. Then after our prayers and Bible study, we enjoyed our weekly carry-in fellowship meal, always a part of our simple experience of church.
I told our little church that the Krendl was my personal Christmas present to each of them. With my good wife's indulgent permission, I braved using a recipe for for something I had never tried before. I must say I felt blessed going through the rather involved steps it called for as a kind of labor of love, an act of prayer.
Until next year, a Merry, Merry Christmas!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)