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The Centinel - June 1998, Issue 1
Newsletter Returns
Welcome, or welcome back, to Central's new/old newsletter. The Centinel
replaced an earlier newsletter in the late 1950's. It was last published
in 1993 and has been greatly missed. A group has formed under the
auspices of the Congregational Care and Discipleship Committee
to pick up this vital ministry of communication.
The written word has always been an essential part of the way God has
spoken to His people. The Bible is God's inspired word; within the Bible
we have a collection of writings, inspired by the Holy Spirit, which the
writers have designed to communicate God's plans and commandments.
Writing brings something that oral communication does not: a lasting
impression, a point of common reference.
God recognizes that written words - in addition to other ministry - are
essential to communicating effectively with His people. The purpose of
this newsletter is to proclaim to all of Central's members and friends
what God is doing in and around Central. We want you to know at least a
little bit about the activities of all our groups, from children to
seniors, from the Diaconate to our missionaries. This is the place where
new ministries can explain their philosophy and existing ministries can
report on activities that have taken place. When the bulletin announces
a retreat or a youth missions trip, you will be able to find out what
happened and how it affected lives.
The mission of Central is:
MOVING PEOPLE TOWARD CHRIST
by being a community of faith which loves, encourages,
and equips them in Christ,
sending them out to serve.
This newsletter endeavors to fulfill that entire mission statement. You
will learn of ways to grow in Christ and ways you can assist others in
their spiritual growth. There will be opportunities to get involved in
moving others to Christ: by joining a ministry, by helping at an
activity, or by inviting others to an event.
If you feel called by God to get involved in the preparation of this
newsletter (in typing, reporting, or writing, for example) please talk
to one of the editorial staff.
You are invited to submit articles for The Centinel about any of
Central's ministries. They may be left in The Centinel mailbox,
preferably typed and on diskette, or e-mailed. Please contact the
editorial staff with format and submission questions. We may edit
articles due to space or other considerations. Thanks for your
understanding. May God use this effort to the glory and furtherance of
His Kingdom.
---the editorial staff
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Passport to the Holy Land will take our tourists (as the children are
called) to such sites as Mary and Martha's Home, the Carpenter's Shop,
the Sheepfold in Bethlehem, the Temple, and the Marketplace.
Children who will be entering Kindergarten through the 5th grade are
invited to join Children's Ministries for a 5-day adventure June 22-26
as Very Exciting Bible School '98 will travel to the Holy Land to
experience the places in which Christ lived and taught.
At press time over 80 children had registered for the program. An equal
number of registrants are expected in the days immediately before VeBS
begins. A team of over 60 faithful volunteers will keep everything from
snacks to nursery care to the actual sites running smoothly. The
building project has forced Children's Ministries to be creative, as
space and outside access have been lost.
LARGE PRINT COPIES AVAILABLE.
PLEASE CALL THE CHURCH
OFFICE at 410/823-6145.
Titanic is all the rage right now...the current movie...books...recycled
documentaries from years past. In his recent book The Second Coming of
the Church, George Barna likens the modern church to the Titanic: large,
elegant, and sinking fast.
The church has hit "icebergs" of secularism, consumerism, and
a culture that is both post-modern and post-Christian. Waves of
"churchianity" (as opposed to authentic faith) and confused
morality break over her bow and threaten to swamp her.
I believe the only hope for the church and for the world is that the
Church of Jesus Christ - and Central as a part of that Church - be the
Church that Christ is calling her to be in the new millennium. To that
end, your Session is going through a process of wrestling with the
question: "What kind of church does Christ want CPC to be in the
21st century?" Our recent sermon series "A Church for
Y2K" also asked similar questions as we looked to the Word of God
for Christ's vision for His Church...and particularly for this
congregation.
The new building, a revitalized youth ministry, new steps in the areas
of small groups, ministry with seniors, and an expanding Paraclete
ministry are all signs that the Lord is up to something great...even
titanic...as we turn the corner into a new century. Be in prayer for
Central: 1) that we would go with Christ's vision, and 2) that you would
hear Christ's call as to how you are to be a part of that vision.
In sheer grace...
Ron Scates
(Note: "Y2K" is the Year 2 Thousand, i.e., 2000)
Effective immediately the Church Library will always be open. If you
have not stopped by the library recently, take advantage of the expanded
hours to see what's new on the shelves. Please be sure to follow all the
sign-out procedures so we can continue to offer the Library at all
hours.
NEW MINISTRIES STARTING UP
The Congregational Care Committee has commissioned a Task Force to
develop a foundation for a small group ministry at Central. Members of
the task force have spent most of their time examining the writings of
several small group experts and attending small group seminars. These
have aided the task force in developing a vision and a Biblical basis
for small group ministry. The mission statement developed by the task
force is:
The small group ministry
of CPC endeavors to move people toward Christ
by developing intimacy in both personal faith and interpersonal
relationships within the context of small groups by identifying and
training small group leaders, initiating new groups, and supporting
existing groups.
A specific plan to meet Central's needs was developed and will be
revealed over time. In May initial leadership training took place.
Please pray for the Task Force and for Central's small group ministry.
by Jean Stuart
Central Lights, the newly formed group of senior people at Central,
hopes to emphasize the growing in the phrase above. We Seniors are
alive and well, and praising God that with more freedom of choice
timewise, we not only want to enjoy being entertained, but also want to
continue growing in spirit, in service, and in fellowship.
The second Monday of each month will be our time to get together for a
wide variety of programs: some to learn, some to challenge to service,
and some just to be together for the fun of it! So many of our senior
members of Central Church have a great wealth of experience and untapped
talent to give, and we look to each other to enhance this ministry to
the people, from its people.
"Grow old along with me; the BEST is yet to be." If you don't
believe that, come and offer your talents. Reach out a missionary arm to
your circle of friends and family. Come yourself and bring someone with
you to each meeting. Then, step back and watch how God will allow us to
grow in love and concern for each other. Remember to pray for His Will
as we plan together. We're counting on it! We hope you enjoyed our first
luncheon meeting "Gettysburg Revisited" on June 8. Check the
bulletin and posters for more details of a July picnic, an exciting bus
trip, and more.
Central Lights are plugged into His Power, but we need your light to be
able to shine the brightest!
Books from the All-Church Retreat:
Boundaries, The Sacrament of the
Present Moment, How to Beat Burnout, Time Management for Unmanageable
People.
Books from Ron's Sunday School Class:
More Than Equals, Christian Belief
in a Post-Modern World, A Passion for Truth, Decisive Issues Facing
Christians Today, Darwin on Trial, Darwin's Black Box, Nature God &
Pulpit.. Check it Out!
by Ron Scates
The week of May 17th was a week of surprises for the family of faith at
Central. On that Monday Linda Shaw, our Office Manager, met with me to
let me know that she had accepted a job offer at another church. The
next day, Leo Wanenchak, our Director of Music Ministries, met with me
to say that he was feeling led by the Lord to resign after 23 years of
ministry here at Central. Both of their resignations were totally
"out of the blue," and -though surprising - I trust that the
Lord is up to something new and exciting for Central's future. Both Leo
and Linda will be missed tremendously. Between them they represented
well over 35 years of service at Central.
The Executive Committee of the Session will be launching search
committees in the near future to look for Leo's and Linda's
replacements. Sometime in the early fall we plan on having a celebration
of Leo's ministry here at Central filled with memories, humor, and an
opportunity for you to express your gratitude to him. We'll keep you
posted. Until then, please be in prayer that the Lord will raise up the
right folks in both these areas so that we can continue to move forward
for the Kingdom.
by Heidi Bertaux, Coordinator
Paraclete is a New Testament term meaning "to come alongside"
or "helper" as seen in John 14:26. The Biblical basis for what
is known as Central's Paraclete Ministry comes chiefly from 2
Corinthians 1:3-7 where Paul talks about the God of all comfort, and
from Galatians 6:2 where Paul refers to bearing one another's burdens.
In a very discomforting world, comfort is one of those rare commodities
for which you and I long.
The Paraclete Ministry
integrates a Christ-centered approach through
prayer and care-giving, with the goal of bringing wholeness through
Christ. Paraclete Ministers, who have completed 50 hours of the Stephen
Ministry training program, meet confidentially with a person struggling
with any life issue, for as long as that individual needs support. This
is available to the members and friends of Central who need Godly
support and prayer during times of transition, loss, and emotional or
relational difficulty.
If you would like to know more about the Paraclete LayCare Ministry,
please look for our blue brochure in the Central information board, or
leave a confidential message for Heidi Bertaux at the Church Office
(410/823-6145) on voicemail extension 232. You can even call after
office hours and dial the extension directly to protect your privacy.
The Paraclete ministry is waiting to 'come alongside' and be Christ's
servant of compassion for you.
by June Comegys
Have you been visited by a deacon when you were in the hospital or
recovering in your home? Did a phone call to inquire about your
situation or a brief chat make your day just a shade brighter? The
deacons of Central Church
have compassionate hearts and are glad to
visit, listen, and comfort. Ministering to those who are sick, infirm,
or alone is one of the many ways we are dedicated to support the members
of Central. We wish for everyone good health and sun-filled days, but if
you have a need for an outstretched hand or a listening ear, feel free
to call any of the deacons. We will be there for you.
by Scott Corey
Building Update: Our contractor, Hogg Construction, is winning the
battle over the infamous El Nino. In May, the masonry walls were
finished, the entry area overhead steel erected, some roofing installed,
and landscaping done. The interior walls will be framed, exterior
finishes installed, and sitework wrapped up in June. July will bring
drywall installation in offices and classrooms, and windows and glass
will be installed. During August, the interior will be painted, ceilings
and light fixtures installed, along with doors and hardware, and work
will begin inside of the Bell Tower and office areas. At the beginning
of July, Ron Scates and Jerry Cooper will move into their temporary
shared office in the Parlor. Volunteers with strong backs will be needed
to move their extensive libraries. Completion is expected by October 1.
Giving Update: How faithful and sacrificial are we? Very! Total receipts
through the end of March are $1,740,555. Projected receipts for the
entire campaign are forecasted at $2,324,947.
Our goal of $1,900,000 was the maximum that the consultant thought we
could raise. This amount will not cover our total costs for the
building, missions component, building loan, etc. Those costs have grown
with the changes made to improve our parking and drainage. The expected
shortfall between all receipts and all expenses is about $600,000. The
Session is exploring the feasibility of reducing this amount, and is
also developing a plan for Phase 2. More information on this will be
coming by early summer.
Missions Update: On March 28, another Christian home was planted in
Sandtown, a neighborhood being resurrected by Habitat for Humanity. The
house at 732 Cumberland was presented to its new owners, Michelle and
Camonta West, and dedicated to the Lord. The house was rebuilt by
Central volunteers using materials paid for by $12,000 from "Beyond
These Walls...".
In June, funds from "Beyond These Walls..." will strengthen the church in
Latvia. Aivis Ilsteris will be brought to the USA for training and
on-the-job apprenticeship with John Sackett and Dick Taylor. He then
will return to the church discipleship ministry God has given him in
Riga, Latvia.
by Jeff Wilkinson
Central's website is kept current, detailed, and useful not only to
Central members and friends, but also to others looking for a church in
our area. It's not just a one-time brochure for Central, but rather a
way to communicate continually, so keep checking back to learn what's
new. Recent additions include:
- current prayer needs
- newsletters
- photos of the BTW construction & staff photos
- opportunities to volunteer and serve
- college and career fellowship information
- links to community and Christian Internet resources
Please feel free to contact Jeff Wilkinson, Jerry Cooper, or
Rob Smith any time to make suggestions or to submit information.
WEB FACTS
- Busiest time on our website: 10-11p
- Twice as many hits as any other time of day, three times the average number of hits.
- Slowest time: 4-5a
- More people visit between midnight and 1a than in any hour between 5p and 10p.
The FOLD: News about our Central Family
by Kathy Vaselkiv
A visit in April from Valdemar and Noemia de Souza, the pastor of our
sister church in
Sao Paulo and his wife, will undoubtedly lead the
Vaselkiv family's Top 10 List for 1998. We confess to some initial fear
and trepidation about entertaining houseguests for two weeks whom we had
never met and spoke a different language. We quickly learned, though,
that we were privileged to get to know two wonderful saints with servant
hearts, great senses of humor, and infinite patience with the rough and
tumble chaos of the Vaselkiv household.
Valdemar and Noemia had learned some English in Sao Paulo from Stephanie
K., but our Portuguese was limited to a few simple phrases hastily
picked up from Berlitz tapes the week before they arrived. The joy of
celebrating Christ's resurrection on Easter Sunday, though, was a shared
bond that needed few words.
The de Souzas enjoyed fellowship, meals, shopping, and sightseeing with
several Central families, along with Valdemar's time with Ron, Jerry,
and the church staff.
As the Vaselkivs look back on this experience, we are reminded how very
fortunate we were to spend two weeks with this wonderful couple. This
gifted couple which lead and disciple a vibrant and growing Brazilian
congregation are the same two that so graciously washed our dishes,
entertained our children, and shared our family life for two weeks. We
realize there are probably many families at the Ipiranga church who
would give anything to share so much time with their pastor and his
wife!
Greg Meadows will be serving Central this summer as an intern with the
youth ministry program. Greg is from Waterloo, Ontario, and he is
presently a student at Heritage Theological Seminary in Cambridge,
Ontario. During the past two years he has been working with teens under
the direction of his youth pastor at his home church. Greg's heart for
God and love for young people will be significant assets as he assists
Chris Ritchie in the summer programming with our middle and high school
youth groups. Greg will be staying with Norm & Mary Burkey during his
time here at Central. You can make Greg feel welcomed among us through
your prayers, encouraging words and perhaps even a dinner invitation.
by Murray Smoot
Jesus was half-way into his public ministry at thirty-one years of age.
At that same age I was staring at closed doors. It was 1948. Four "C's"
had challenged me. The Chaplaincy was gone. We had resigned from the
Young Life Campaign in Seattle to go to China; but Chairman Mao had just
occupied the university where we were scheduled to go with the China
Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. We tore up our tickets on the USS
General Gordon and unpacked our baggage.
On September 17, 1948 I was ordained to the gospel ministry in the UPNA
church. Dottie and I had five human metabolic systems to maintain, which
now included Jack at 5, Jim at 31/2, and Jan at one. We were stranded
back on the East Coast, living between my parents and the Ikenas. What
next, Lord? The last "C" remained ... a Church? Oh, come now, I'm a
teacher and ordained as an evangelist!
T. Roland Philips of Arlington Presbyterian - that prince and dean of
expository preachers - took me on as his assistant. I preached
occasionally. I conducted the funeral of the infant daughter of Dottie's
sister, Edna Morris. My first wedding was graduation day at the Naval
Academy with full military protocol.
In the fall of 1948 the Baltimore Presbytery (which had frustrated my
Naval chaplaincy bid four years earlier) had to find someone to pastor
the recently-relocated Central Presbyterian Church. Just an "old brown
manse" on 2 1/2 acres on York Road in sleepy Towson; but having no funds
available for salary. Arlington, the most alive church in the
Presbytery, was successfully appealed to, and Dr. Philips suggested my
name as "stated supply". My first year's salary: $3,000 and free use of
the manse (where all the church functions were held). O.K., I'll take it
if I can leave (for China?) on three weeks notice. We moved in with a
truck-load of scrounged furnishings. I rang door bells. I hit the
beachhead. And I scheduled our first service for the first Sunday
morning of that coming January, 1949.
(Note: Central will celebrate its 50th Anniversary on York Road next
year.)
Dr. Gary and Mary Margaret Goshorn again traveled to Africa where Gary
filled in at a mission hospital. Last year, Gary (a recently retired
pediatrician) and Mary worked in a small hospital in Mukinge, Zambia.
This year, for two months, they were in Kijabe, a large mission complex
in Kenya. Dr. Dick Bransford, associated with Central, heads up the
Crippled Children's program in Kijabe, but Gary worked at the medical
hospital. For the first two weeks he and two other newly-arrived
short-termers were the only doctors at the hospital, while the medical
staff attended a medical conference. Through Mary Margaret's ministry,
God enabled Gary to cope with this new and challenging medical routine.
Mary Margaret had no hospital job, but befriended some of the new single
missionaries and a pregnant mother next door, who had three toddlers.
Since the stated purpose of the hospital is to glorify God through
physical and spiritual healing, Gary observed regular devotions for the
patients, daily chaplain visits, and weekly screenings of the "Jesus"
film. The Kenyan interns would pray with the parents of seriously ill
children, and every doctor would share the Lord with any non-believer in
danger of dying. An amazing 85% of the terminal AIDS patients are
receptive to the gospel message.
Gary and Mary Margaret's positive experience has further encouraged Drs.
Louis & Samia Elias to go for short term work there later this summer.
Others going on missions trips:
Chris and Kay Smoes - Wycliffe linguistic training
Be sure to check the bulletin each week for meetings and details.
| June 15 - July 13: |
Pastor Jerry taking 2 weeks study leave and then 2 weeks vacation |
| June 21: |
New Members received at both services
Adult Christian Ed. Summer Potpourri Begins |
| Week of June 22-26: |
VeBS
Sandtown Habitat Blitz Week |
| Beginning of July: |
Ron & Jerry move into temporary office |
| July 3: |
Church Office Closed for Independence Day |
| July 5-11: |
Youth Missions Trip to Toronto |
| July 13: |
Seniors' Picnic at the Stuarts' |
| July 15: |
August Centinel Deadline |
| Week of July 20- 24: |
Sandtown Habitat Blitz Week |
| July 27 - August 24: |
Pastor Ron on vacation |
| Editorial Staff |
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Nancy Nasrallah
Mary Burkey Olga Gerkens Bob Hale
Susan Hula Karen McCaffrey Denise Simms
Thus says the Lord:
"Stand at the crossroads, and look,
and ask ... where the good way lies;
and walk in it, and find rest for your souls...
Also I raised up sentinels for you;
give heed to the sound of the trumpet!"
- Jer 6:16-17 NRSV
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Note that the Our Church Family section won't be
included in the web issue of this newsletter since the information doesn't meet our
privacy policy.
