Jan 29, 2012

Serving Today...

Organist - M DeGarmo

Head Usher - J. Miller

Lector - M. Moles (8 AM), J. Davis (10:45)

Alter Guide - C. Duran, K. Poerschke

The Annual Meeting Of The Congregation . . .
Is coming up in two weeks, on Sunday, February 12, 2012.  As announced the past two weeks, the Council has decided that we will have a single, combined worship service, held at 10:00 am, that Sunday. The purpose of this change is to encourage those who attend both the early and late services to come together for worship and the meeting, which will be convened immediately following the service. 

“Potluck “ Luncheon Sign Up . . .
Following the congregation's Annual Meeting on February 12, the council will host a "potluck" dinner.  The Flickinger's have kindly volunteered to provide "ground hog" (translation - ham loaf), once an annual tradition at St. James. To aid in their planning, members are asked to indicate their attendance by using the sign-up sheet on the desk in the sanctuary.  Another sign-up sheet asks attending members to indicate a suggested food contribution, either salad, casserole, dessert, bread or other.
Council members encourage all to join them in this opportunity for fellowship. 

The Members Of The Evangelism & Stewardship Committee . . .
Would like to remind you to take time to work on the Funeral Pre-Planning Worksheet that was mailed to all households of the congregation in the November newsletter.  Now that the busy holiday season is past, take time during these wintry evenings to take out that document and begin to fill it in.  Pastor Paul is available to consult and answer questions, and the church office is willing to make extra copies of the completed document for your use.

Reserve Your Seat For The St. James Spring Bus Trip . . .
This is a wonderful opportunity to see “Jonah” at the Sight and Sound Theatre in Lancaster PA.  The bus will leave on Thursday, May 17 for the 4:15 pm showing of “Jonah”.  Included is an overnight stay at the Willow Valley Inn & Suites Resort Thursday night (double occupancy).  Friday we will enjoy some leisurely touring and  shopping before heading back home.  The price is $215 per person and this includes a breakfast and dinner smorgasbord, a ticket to the show, and transportation!  There is a sign up sheet at the information desk.  See C. Lynn for additional information.

Reach Out To A Local Family . . .
The Social Ministries Committee is aware of a need to assist a family of seven in our community. One of these children was recently hospitalized, diagnosed with cancer.
Would you be willing to provide one "kid friendly" meal?  If so, contact L. Kappel in
the church office.  She is working with T. Springer, of St. James and the Ligonier Valley School District, to coordinate this effort.  If you are unable to prepare a meal a gift card to a local eatery such as Takers, Foxes, Fat Daddy’s, or Gino's Pizza, would be greatly appreciated. While this family has many needs as they cope with the demands of this situation, a nutritious meal on a school night is one way we can respond.

Cookbooks Are Here!
The long-awaited St. James cookbooks were delivered to the church on December 2, and are now available for purchase.  They are filled with delicious recipes from members and friends of the congregation, and might just be the answer to some of “stuck” places on your Christmas gift list.  The cost is $10.00 each, with all profit from the sales going help reduce the remaining balance in the “Extra Strength Pane Relief” window restoration fund.  Copies will be available following Sunday services during the coming weeks in the hallway near the water fountain.

The Adult Sunday School Class . . .
Began Sunday, January 8, the adult Sunday school class will begin a study of the Gospel according to Luke.  All are welcome and encouraged to meet in the parlor at 9:15 am.

Blanket Drive . . .
In order to help our friends and neighbors in the community stay a little warmer thiswinter, Smith Oil hold is again holding an annual blanket drive.  They are collecting new and gently used blankets (no holes or frays) for distribution. A basket for donations is in the coat-rack area of the church. Blankets will be collected until the end of March.  Be sure to find it in your warm heart to help with this wonderful cause!