Table Talk
WPC's Weekly E-Newsletter (April 26, 2024 Edition)
Sunday Worship Time
8:15AM Chapel
10:30AM Sanctuary & Online
SETTING A WELCOMING TABLE AT WPC
“Westminster Presbyterian Church is a family; diverse in name and need; united in our conviction that Jesus Christ is Lord. In our sanctuary there is a communion table of unusual beauty to remind us that God accepts us wherever we are on our spiritual journey.” (A statement describing WPC that was shared with me upon my arrival to the church in 2018.)
Today’s e-note is part three of a five-part series of pastoral reflections on hospitality. I’m sharing some ideas to remember as we try to set a welcoming table (and culture) at WPC.
PREPARING THE SPACE:
Create a space where our dependence upon one another is evident.
The busyness of our day to day lives often has us moving around quickly in ways that don’t allow much time for connection, leaving us feeling isolated. The antidote for this is to connect. We need opportunities to remember how much more enjoyable life is when journeying together than when trying to go it alone.
Amidst life's whirlwind, we often feel isolated. But on Sunday mornings, as we gather to worship, we find solace in unity. Here, we not only lift our voices to God but also share our joys and burdens. Beyond these moments, our small groups become havens of connection. (I’m defining “small group” as any gathering of folks outside of Sunday morning worship services.) Within them, we engage in deep conversations, support one another, and grow in our faith together. These groups are the heartbeat of our church, binding us tightly as a community. Let's treasure both our Sunday gatherings and small group connections, for they nourish our souls and strengthen our shared journey of faith.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time—but if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together. (Lila Watson)
We are all connected. Our lives are dependent upon others from the moment we are born—for food and nourishment, for emotional health and wellbeing, for care when we are sick. We are truly dependent on one another.
Each breath that we take is made possible by parts of our world that most of us will likely never see in person. Even our own breath is a gift to the world as well.
That our breath affects the things around us, and that we are also sustained by their breathing, is a humbling reminder that we are intricately woven into the fabric of creation by threads of connection. We share a world together and are dependent on one another for flourishing. We can offer to the world the things that are life-giving and life-sustaining, or we can offer that which diminishes life, that crushes spirits, that deprives others of dignity.
We are granted some agency in how we will be toward one another and all of creation for the short time that we are a living part of all that is. Those choices can change the world for the better if we allow them—if we accept the responsibility of our connectedness to all things and breathe a bit of life-giving goodness into each moment.
WELCOMING TIPS
- Creating connection happens one small act at a time. Take a moment to do one small act of kindness for someone who sits near you on Sunday morning.
- If you’re on the periphery of the church right now, look for a way to pitch in. Of course, we’d love your help, but more importantly, it’d be an opportunity to connect or re-connect with other folks of the church.
- Take a moment to express your gratitude for those you’re able to connect through the mission and ministries of WPC.
- If you’re not part of any small group, look for upcoming opportunities to take the leap into this vital point of connection at WPC. You won’t regret it!
BLESSING
God of goodness and life-giving breath, help us to embody your spirit of creative liberation toward one another. May we choose to offer in each moment—to our neighbors and our world—that which allows us all to breathe a little more easily. Amen.
See you in church!
Pastor Adam
During Worship Sunday
- We welcome the return of Kathy Miller, our Director of Music Ministries, after being away enjoying a well-deserved vacation after Easter.
- We’re celebrating the Baptism of Thomas James DiSibio.
- We’re ordaining and installing the following WPC church members to spiritual leadership in the church: Ruling Elders: Lani Calder, Mike Crisan, Ken Goldsboro, Lynn Smith, Kay Woods & Deacons: Pam Batt, Laurie Crisan, Dani Yuhas
Worship Leader
Gathering Room Coffee Hour
Fellowship Committee
Ushers/Greeters
Bob Kohuth
Ken Goldsboro
Matthew Baker
Karen Folkwein
Michael Pauline
Tracy Pauline
Giada Pauline
Duane Ward
Kenneth Goldsboro
Caroline Goldsboro
Sunday's Bible Reading
Acts 2:22-24, 32-33, 36-41
Peter said, “Fellow Israelites, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did through him among you, as you yourselves know—this man, handed over to you according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of those outside the law. But God raised him up, having released him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. This Jesus God raised up, and of that all of us are witnesses. Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you see and hear. Therefore let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom you crucified.”
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.” And he testified with many other arguments and exhorted them, saying, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” So those who welcomed his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand persons were added.
Memorial Service for Rebecca Braun
A memorial service for Rebecca Braun has been scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, 12PM in the sanctuary at WPC. A calling hour will be held beginning at 11AM.
Free Luncheon—Sunday, May 5th, 11:30AM in Fellowship Hall.
You're welcome to join us as we break bread together. Sign up to attend this weekend, so we can properly prepare enough food.
Gather for an Informational Meeting about the Youth Mission Trip
This summer we’re planning a “keeping it local” mission trip from June 16-20. (See insert for more info) These kinds of trips always invite questions from youth and parents, so we’re hosting an informational meeting on Sunday, May 5, 11:30AM in the High School Youth Lounge. Come learn more about the trip and have your questions answered before signing up!
Bible Presentation to Students—May 12
We’ll be presenting Bibles to some of the younger folks in our congregation. If you have a child in grade 3 or older, who would like to receive a Bible, please contact Bevin:
Email to bevin.k.flaugher@gmail.com or text 330-774-0809
Recognizing our Graduates—May 19
We want to recognize and celebrate any and all students who will be graduating from all levels of education this spring. If you have a student in your family who is graduating, please send a note to Bevin Baker, so your student can be recognized during our May 19 worship service (10:30AM).
Email to bevin.k.flaugher@gmail.com or text 330-774-0809
The Sacrament of Holy Communion & Day of Pentecost—May 19
Join us as we eat and drink in union with the crucified and risen Christ on the Day of Pentecost. In observance of the holy day, you are invited to wear the color RED, which is the color most often associated with the Holy Spirit.
Want to join a small group?
Simply contact the group leader, and let them know you’re interested.
Church membership is NOT required for joining any group.
The early Church had a saying,
“unus Christianus, nullus Christianus.”
One Christian, no Christian.
The very fabric of our faith is experienced in community.
Help Sort Books—Helping with the Annual Book Sale
Volunteers are needed and appreciated as we do the ongoing work of sorting donated books for our yearly sale. All are welcome to help dust, categorize, and price books. Use the lower level parking lot and entrance doors. Sorting is done in the Multipurpose Room.
Upcoming Book Sorting Dates: May 6 & 20
Youth (Grades 5-12) Sunday Morning Small Group, 9:15AM
Meet in the Youth Room for Relaxed Conversation & Imaginative Prayer
Led by Pastor Adam, 724-893-6244 (call or text)
Youth Donuts & Fellowship--Sunday Mornings
Sunday mornings following 9:15AM Small Group in the Youth Room
Young Adult Women’s Group—Wednesday Evenings
Panera Bread (7121 South Avenue, Boardman)
Book Study/Bible Study led by Lindsay Rodgers, 724-893-6243 (call or text)
Young Adult Men’s Group—Tuesday Evenings
Starbucks (7680 Market Street, Boardman)
Book Study/Bible Study led by Pastor Adam, 724-893-6244 (call or text)
Sunday Morning Small Group, 9:15AM
Meet in the Parlor Room for Fellowship, Prayer, & Previewing the Day’s Sermon
Various Leaders. Church Office 330-758-4513
Women’s Circle of Love—3rd Tuesday of Month, 10AM, Hearth Room (UPDATE)
Fellowship, Lessons, Food, & Laughs. Led by Patti Ward, 330-398-1449 (call or text)
The May Meeting of the Circle of Love is May 21, 10AM. More info to come.
“God Talk, Guy Talk” Men’s Small Group
Fridays, 6:30AM (1st, 3rd, & 5th Fridays)
Perkins on Rt. 224 (804 Boardman-Poland Rd.)
Bible Study/Book Study led by Tim Meehan, 330-758-7535 (call or text)
Older Adult Women Small Group (MAY UPDATE)
The Smiling Singles gather each month at a local restaurant after the 10:30AM Sunday morning worship service. Both the hostesses and the restaurant may vary.
In May, the group will be meeting for lunch Sunday, May 18, 12PM at Stonebridge. Reserve your spot by contacting Karen Kalcic (330-770-5214, kkalcic@zoominternet.net) or you may sign up on the form in the church office.
Volunteer Opportunity: Our Community Kitchen UPDATE
We all love our Second Sunday Luncheons, but on the Second Monday of the month we're needed to help serve lunch to hungry people at Our Community Kitchen at 515 Mahoning Avenue. Each month we need two or three people who can help pack a sack lunch and dish up food from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It's worth the effort, for them and for you! If you're interested, please call the office. Our next dates are Monday, May 13.
Summer Small Group Opportunity—“Why Presbyterians Are Like That”
This summer you’re invited to join a small group in a series of Bible studies intended to help folks think about why Presbyterians are the way we are. Presbyterians are distinguished by the particular ways we live out our faith in Jesus. We don’t claim to be the only Christians who emphasize certain elements of Christian faith, but we do believe that certain emphases and themes mark us as distinctive in the Christian family. More info about these seasonal small groups and how to signup coming in May!
WPC Church Leadership Quick Reference Guide—Coming in May
At WPC, the month of May begins the season of leadership transition for ruling elders, deacons, and the committees of the church. For some areas of the church, the leadership will remain the same, while other areas will see new faces of leadership. In May, we’ll be providing you with an updated reference guide, highlighting the leadership of the church. Once you receive the guide, please consider which area of the church God might be calling you to engage with your gifts of time, talents, and treasure.
Chancel Choir—Thursdays, 7PM, Choir Room
Lead Congregational Singing & Special Choral Anthems
Bell Choir—Thursdays, 6PM, Choir Room
Occasional Offering of Special Bell Choir Music for Worship
Children’s Choir and Chime Choir (thru Grade 4)
2nd and 4th Sundays of the month (during 10:30AM worship services)
Occasional Offering of Special Music for Worship
Music Notes
Join the Chancel Choir in a program at Shepherd of the Valley (Western Reserve Road) this Thursday evening at 6:00 pm. The choir will be singing spirituals: “Somebody’s Knockin’ at Your Door”, hymn arrangements: “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”, gospel style music: “Just a Closer Walk With Thee” and concluding with “Battle Hymn of the Republic”. The audience will be invited to join in singing some favorite hymns: “In the Garden” and sing the familiar benediction response “The Lord Bless You and Keep You”. We invite you to come for a time of music and fellowship with your congregants that reside at Shepherd of the Valley.
I will be assembling a summer “pick-up” choir to sing during the Chancel Choir hiatus. We will meet on Sunday mornings at 10:00 am prior to worship and learn an easy 2-part anthem to be sung that day. Sit with your family during worship and come forward to sing. The children are singing a fun song to sing on Mother’s Day with rhythm accompaniment: “Encourage One Another”. It’s also that time of the year to request favorite hymns or anthems. Let a choir member or me know what you would like to hear/sing. I am also looking for musicians to fill the summer months. There will be a sheet on the piano to sign up to fill the sanctuary with beautiful music.
Simple Gifts Choir presents "Just Praise!"
Sunday, May 19--4PM
Hubbard First Presbyterian Church
22 Westview Avenue, Hubbard, OH 44425
The hour-long program features the 55-voice choir singing contemporary Christian praise anthems accompanied by powerful orchestration. The music varies from traditional to light rock and gospel with opportunity for the audience to sing along with the choir, soloists, and guest musicians. A freewill offering will be taken to benefit the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance in Israel and Palestine. Admission is free and open to the public. All are invited for fellowship and light refreshments in the church's fellowship hall following the program.
Of note, WPC choir members Karen Kalcic and Carolyn Lorimer will be performing with the Simple Gifts Choir. See you there!
Property Committee News
- We are looking for a volunteer to help Tim Meehan with the recycle every other Tuesday afternoon or evening for the pick up on Wednesday mornings. It usually takes a little over an hour. Please contact Tim 330-720-7479
- The parking lot & driveway are getting repairs, sealed and stripped the end of May. Weather permitting the job will start on May 28 and end on May 31. On May 28 and 31 there will be limited parking and on May 29 and 30 there will be no parking available.
Pastor Adam Continues Jury Duty Responsibilities
From April 22 to May 3, Pastor Adam will be performing his civic duty by serving as a Petit Juror for the Mahoning County Court. His daily schedule and availability continues to be in flux through Friday of next week.
CCW Academy Graduation Ceremony—May 15
For the first time, CCW Academy (our preschool-in-residence) will be hosting its annual graduation ceremony in our church sanctuary. The date is Wednesday, May 15, 5:30PM. You are welcome to attend.
Paper Shredding Opportunity--Thursday, May 23
Recently there has been some spring cleaning in areas of the church that has resulted in a lot of old records that need to be disposed of properly. The Women’s Association has voted to sponsor a shredding day at the church. A truck from Protect and Shred shredding company will come to the church on Thursday, May 23rd.
This event will be open to all members of the church. We know a lot of you have shredders, but you have to take the staples out, paper clips off, spend hours shredding (if like most of us you put it off) and then you are left with bags of shreds you cannot recycle.
Unfortunately, we cannot give a specific times as they have several jobs scheduled in Boardman for that day. If you are interested, closer to the date we can give an approximate time and you can come and wait. If that doesn’t work for you, box them up, bring them to the office and we can tape them closed and store them out of sight until that day.
If you have any questions or are interested, please call or email Deb Karash at the church, (330)758-4513 or westch@zoominternet.net
Mark Your Calendars—Vacation Bible School 2024
July 8-11 this year at Bethel Lutheran Church from 10 am to 12:30 pm
Mark Your Calendars—Youth Mission Trip, June 16-20
Eastminster Presbytery Youth Mission Trip to Youngstown
“Loving God. Loving Neighbors. Loving Locally.”
Poland Presbyterian Church & Westminster Presbyterian Church (Boardman) invite all interested youth in entering grades 7-12 to join us for a week of meaningful service, worship, and fellowship in the Youngstown area.
- The host site is Poland Presbyterian Church, which will serve as our home for meals, worship, and sleeping.
- The Davis Family YMCA will provide daily shower services.
Youth will work with four different local service agencies in the Youngstown Area:
- The Way Station
- Gabba Camp
- Focus Hippotherapy (Equine Therapy)
- Goodness Grows
Cost: Only $50.00 for housing, food, and activities. (Scholarships Available)
Optional trip to Splash Lagoon (June 21) for an additional cost.
Registration Deadline--May 5th
To Register/Questions Contact:
Bevin Baker, 330-774-0809, bevin.k.flaugher@gmail.com
OR
Erika Carcelli, 330-757-1547, erika@polandpresbyterian.org
WPC partners with Community Groups by providing rooms and space for folks to gather. All Community Groups have their own unique guidelines/rules/fees for participation. Please contact the groups directly for clarifying questions about involvement.
Aerobics
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 8:30AM & Tuesdays, Thursdays, 5:30PM
Fellowship Hall, Contact Brenda Hughes, 330-402-1654 (call or text)
Balance Class
Monday & Thursday, 12:30PM & Friday, 9:30AM in Hearth Room
Contact Missey DiMattio, 330-885-2040 or Patti Ward, 330-398-1449 (call or text)
Recovery Groups
Al-Anon, Sundays, 7PM, Hearth Room or Pavilion (weather permitting)
Overeaters Anonymous (OA), Mondays, 7PM, Preschool Entrance
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Wednesdays, 7:30PM (Closed Meetings)
Fellowship Hall or Pavilion (weather permitting)
Gamblers Anonymous (GA), Fridays, 7:30PM (Closed Meetings)
Lower Level of Church or Pavilion (weather permitting)
Scouting
Scout Troop 60, Tuesdays, 7PM, Fellowship Hall
Girl Scout Troop 80224, First Wednesday of Month, 5:30PM, Hearth Room
Preschool—CCW Academy
Contact Janet Petro, Administrator, 330-755-7041, CCWAcademy@yahoo.com
CCW Academy is enrolling students for the 2024-2025 school year, offering structured classes for children aged 2.5-5 years (9am—12pm) and childcare (7am—5:30pm).
Can We Pray for You?
Have a joy? We’d love to celebrate with you. Have a concern? We’d love to encourage and support you. Don’t hesitate to share your joys and concerns with Pastor Adam OR send a note to our beloved email prayer chain: rgibbs22@zoominternet.net
Pray for Your Brothers and Sisters...
This list is an invitation for you to hold your WPC siblings & friends in prayer. Names added to this prayer list will remain on the list for one month or whenever you request it be removed, whichever comes first. After a name has been removed, we will gladly add it to the list again if such a request is made.
Alison Dobro
The family of John Boyd
The family of Becky Braun
The family of Clarice Bates
Pam Batt
Dave Hess
McKenzi Bea Hardwick
Skip & Eleanor Miller
The family of Norma Friedrich
Larry Rodgers
Cleo Dietrich
Wish Someone a Happy Birthday!
April Birthdays
Apr 28 Alison Dobro
Apr 29 TJ Blackstone
Contact the Church Office
Email: westch2@zoominternet.net
Website: www.wpcboardman.com
Location: Westminster Presbyterian Church, Stadium Drive, Youngstown, OH, USA
Phone: 330-758-4513
Contact CCW Academy Preschool
Location: 119 Stadium Drive, Youngstown, OH, USA
Phone: 330-755-7041
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCWacademyPreschool