Table Talk
WPC's Weekly E-Newsletter (April 19, 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 two of a five-part series of pastoral reflections on hospitality. So, over the next five weeks in the e-newsletters, I’m going to share with you some ideas to remember as we try to set a welcoming table (and culture) at WPC.
PREPARING THE SPACE:
Create a space where your guests can be themselves.
There are few spaces in our lives where we can be completely ourselves. There are set expectations, often outside our control, around how we are expected to show up to certain spaces. Creating a space where your guests can be vulnerable says that you value all of who they are - and it opens them to fully valuing, with greater depth, the other guests gathered at the table.
On Sunday, April 7 we got a little silly as we laughed and made fun of ourselves during Holy Humor Sunday. Why bother with such a silly worship service? Why would I include mediocre one-liners and “dad jokes” in my sermon? To show vulnerability. Such a worship service was a risk. It could have completely flopped. Thankfully it was welcomed and appreciated. Regardless of the reviews, my goal for the service was to invite vulnerability in such a light-hearted way that we would communicate to our faith community it’s okay to be vulnerable in our worship space, before the God who knows us fully and loves us fully, no matter the emotion that’s dominating our heart and soul each week we step into the sanctuary.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Bear each other’s burdens. Don’t take this opportunity to think you are better than those around you. Each person has his or her own load to carry and story to write. (Galatians 6:2-5)
As a society, we work hard to protect ourselves with perfectionism and judgment, proving our self-worth, and out-performing those around us all in an effort to keep everyone else from seeing our screw-ups, our imperfections, our fears. We do this because allowing oneself to be known so completely is absolutely terrifying! But allowing oneself to be seen and known - and allowing oneself to fully see and know another - is the core, the heart, the center, of meaningful human experience. This is what it means to be real; this is what it looks like to be vulnerable. Vulnerability is about the willingness to see our lives and truly be seen in our lives. Vulnerability transforms our front porches, our yards, our neighborhoods, our communities, our homes, our church, and our tables, not simply into spaces of welcome, but into spaces of radical hospitality that break open our hearts in love, new possibility, and healing.
WELCOMING TIPS
- Be an anti-excellence church. Maybe “good enough” is an okay metric for evaluating our worship services and our life together. The rest of life is stressful enough; church shouldn’t be.
- In small group settings, invite folks to share something they are thankful for and/or something they have been struggling with.
- Welcome new ideas and encourage folks to try something new and (possibly) fail, without judgment. Understand mistakes are an invaluable learning tool, but mistakes also lead to progress and growth.
BLESSING
Loving God, you call us to bear one another’s burdens. Help us to practice vulnerability in our lives in ways that allow us to bear one another’s burdens in friendship, in ways that fundamentally change our hearts and souls, in ways that turn strangers into friends and family. Amen.
THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR CHURCH IN TODAY’S WORLD
Do we still need the church today? What is the role of our church in our community and beyond? Recently, there has been a lot of talk about the decline of organized religion in America. Some people see this as a good thing, but others are starting to realize that our church plays a crucial role in holding our community together.
In a recent Atlantic essay by Derek Thompson titled, “The True Cost of the Churchgoing Bust,” Thompson talked about how fewer young people and working-class folks are going to church these days. It's not that they don't believe anymore, but sometimes they feel like going to church isn't "cool." As a result, they miss out on the love and support that our church family provides.
The article also mentioned how the decline of churches is connected to other problems in our society, like loneliness, addiction, and mental health struggles. Our church is a place where people can find friendship, guidance, and hope in times of need.
Even though our church isn't perfect, we've seen firsthand how it can make a positive difference in people's lives. Whether it's helping someone through a tough time or providing a place to belong, our church is a source of love and encouragement for many.
As we look to the future, let's remember the importance of our church in our community. Let's continue to welcome everyone with open arms, nurture each other's faith, and show God's love to those around us.
Together, we can make a difference and be a light in our world.
See you in church!
Pastor Adam
Special Guests!
- Organist Dan Laginya will be leading the music for worship! We are thankful for his participation, filling-in for Kathy Miller, our Director of Music.
- We welcome Crystal Eckman from the City Rescue Mission, as she gives an update on what’s happening at the Mission.
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
Gather with Pastor Adam if you’re Interested in Membership @ WPC--Sunday April 21
If you have been worshiping with us and think you may want to take the next step in your faith journey through the sacrament of baptism or becoming a member, Pastor Adam invites you to join him for “Meet with the Pastor” Sunday, April 21, 11:30a in the Parlor Room. Offered sporadically throughout the year, this is your opportunity to meet with Pastor Adam and learn about the church, our ministries and membership in an informal setting. You'll leave with information about WPC, the beliefs and traditions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), and hear about opportunities to serve, connect and grow. No need to register; just show up!
Sunday's Bible Reading
Acts 2:1-8, 11-17, 21
When Pentecost Day arrived, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound from heaven like the howling of a fierce wind filled the entire house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be individual flames of fire alighting on each one of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit enabled them to speak.
There were pious Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. When they heard this sound, a crowd gathered. They were mystified because everyone heard them speaking in their native languages. They were surprised and amazed, saying, “Look, aren’t all the people who are speaking Galileans, every one of them? How then can each of us hear them speaking in our native language? We hear them declaring the mighty works of God in our own languages!” They were all surprised and bewildered. Some asked each other, “What does this mean?” Others jeered at them, saying, “They’re full of new wine!”
Peter stood with the other eleven apostles. He raised his voice and declared, “Judeans and everyone living in Jerusalem! Know this! Listen carefully to my words! These people aren’t drunk, as you suspect; after all, it’s only nine o’clock in the morning! Rather, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: “In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Coming to Worship in April
Sunday, April 28—Ordination & Installation of Ruling Elders and Deacons:
Ruling Elders: Lani Calder, Mike Crisan, Ken Goldsboro, Lynn Smith, Kay Woods
Deacons: Pam Batt, Laurie Crisan, Dani Yuhas
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.
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!
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
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: April 22; 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 (Meeting April 21--LOCATION CHANGE)
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. The Smiling Singles will be going to O'Charley's on April 21, directly after the 10:30 service. Sign up on the reservation sheet in the office, or contact Marilyn Burrows or Sandy Driscoll for any questions or to reserve a seat. Please let us know by Thursday, April 18, if you want to join us. If you need to cancel a reservation, please do so by the 19th. Hope to have a good crowd.
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!
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
The Chancel Choir is planning a concert at Shepherd of the Valley on a Thursday evening, May 2 at 6:00 pm. The program will include spirituals, a little gospel, anthems based on hymns and patriotic selections. It is hoped that the residents along with many of our WPC members will come, enjoy, and participate in singing at the concert.
The children will sing in worship on May 14, Mother’s Day.
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!
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
Wish Someone a Happy Birthday!
April Birthdays
Apr 20 Susan Friedrich
Apr 20 Susan Maraffa
Apr 20 Donna Parsons
Apr 22 Marilyn Wagmiller
Apr 22 Christo Wallace
Apr 24 Frances Kohuth
Apr 25 Abigail Knight
Apr 25 Vaughn Machel
Apr 25 John Timmer
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