St. John's United Methodist Church 

 Cornerstone

    

   Click on the links below to go directly to that section of the newsletter.
IN THIS ISSUE
Join us for worship
Calendar
Prayer List
Text Giving
Red Bird
Table Talk
Drive Thru Prayer
Drive Thru Nativity
Advent Devotionals
Warrior Coffee
Pastor's Reflection
R.I.S.E Sunday
Choirs
Coat Drive
Sunday School
Youth Group/Confirmation
Bible Studies
Book Club
Hunterdon Hills Trip
Line Dancing
Crop Hunger Walk
UMM Breakfast
Election Day Bake Sale
 
Open arms and serving hands transforming lives through Christ
   
JOIN US FOR
WORSHIP  
  
Worship Services:
8:00 and 10:30 a.m.
Traditional
 
  9:15 a.m.
Praise  and Worship
  
THIS SUNDAY, 
October 7, 2018
RISE SUNDAY
Please Note: Change in Worship Times 
One Worship Service at 9 AM   
in Sanctuary
followed by Work-ship Projects  
from 10:15-Noon
Benediction in Fellowship Hall - Noon 
 
 "On a Mission From God" 
Pastor Janice 
selected verses from Jonah  
 
215-357-6998
 
CHURCH HOURS
Monday - Friday
9:00 AM -2:00 PM 
 
THIS WEEK'S 
CALENDAR
 
Thursday, October 4
6:00pm
  Wedding Rehearsal
 
6:45pm
  Ring of Faith
 
7:30pm
  Al-Anon

Sunday, October 7
9:00am
  R.I.S.E. Sunday
 
10:30am
  Children & Youth Sunday School
 
11:30am
  Joyful Voices (Cancelled today)
 
12:15pm
  Holy Handbells (cancelled today)
 
6:00pm
  Youth Choir
 
7:00pm
  Youth Group
 
Monday, October 8
7:00pm
  Trustees
 
Tuesday, October 9
10:00am
 
History of Early Christianity:  
Resurrection to Rome
 
10:00am
  Prayer Shawl Ministry
 
5:45pm
  GENesis Bells
 
7:00pm
History of Early Christianity:  
Resurrection to Rome
 
7:00pm
  Naomi Circle
 
7:00pm
  Praise Band Rehearsal
 
7:00pm
  Table Talk
 
7:30pm
  AA
 
Wednesday, October 10
10:00am
  Rebekah Circle
 
1:00pm
  Joanna Circle
 
4:30pm
  Drive Thru Prayer
 
7:00pm
Bible Study  
 
7:00pm  
Book Club  
 
Thursday, October 11
6:45pm
  Ring of Faith
 
7:30pm
  Al-Anon
 
8:00pm
  Adult Choir

 
 

 

PRAYER LIST

Please click to view

 

All "Ongoing Prayer Concerns" will be listed for 
2 weeks.  
Please submit a new prayer request card if you desire to renew the listing for 2 additional weeks.
GIVING
MOBILE GIVING
  • Just go to our website stjohnsivyland.com
  • Click on the donate now button and register.
Once you've registered, you can either make donations by debit or credit.  
OR try  
TEXT GIVING 
 All you have to do is text the amount you wish to give to 215-398-1617.
You will immediately receive a one-time registration link, then just follow the prompts to complete your donation!

It's quick and secure.
The same vendor that handles electronic giving for us, Vanco Services, has state of the art encryption, so you can rest easy that your transaction is 100% safe and confidenti
al. 
 
If you have any questions about mobile or text giving,
email Lou Lescas at  stjohns820@gmail.com

THANK YOU
FUNDRAISING DINNER: THANK YOU!
Thanks so much to everyone who came out to Chipotle in support of Missions at St. John's last Sunday evening! The turnout was even better than we expected, and Chipotle will be sending us a check in the amount of $240, simply for dining there on that specific night! We apologize for the long line and appreciate everyone's patience. The event turned out to be an excellent opportunity, not only for fundraising, but for fellowship and outreach as well. We hope Chipotle will be better prepared for the St. John's crowd next time, and we hope those of you who couldn't make it will be able to join us next time as well.
MISSIONS
Red Bird Trailers  
Are Open Daily
9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Drop off Donations of clothing and household items to the trailers located in the back of the church parking lot.  

RONALD McDONALD HOUSE TABS COLLECTION
Naomi Circle is collecting tabs from beverage cans for Ronald McDonald House.  You will find a container under the sign hanging on the UMW bulletin board. Please place them in a plastic bag and put it in the container. This is an ongoing collection, so keep bringing them in as you collect them.   Thank you.  


Donations of non-perishable food for the Eastwick Food Pantry are always needed through-out the year.  Please place contributions in the shopping carts located in the narthex and fellowship hall lobby. 
 
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED  
to deliver food and clothing to the  
Eastwick Food Bank.   
Please contact  
Lou Lescas,  stjohns820@gmail.com
 if you are available to help.  
 
Thank you for your support.  
   
Prayer Shawl Ministry
 
New members of the ministry group are always welcome; lessons and guidance can be provided for beginners and those with rusty skills.


The group meets mon thly on the second Tuesday to knit or crochet together and to pray over the completed items. For more information, contact Carol Rice at 215-357-1203.                                         
OUTREACH
 Join the Conversation!  Bring a Friend!
ST. JOHN'S  
DRIVE-THRU PRAYER
Wednesdays from 4:30-6pm.
 
 
Our prayer team offers prayer to those who for various reasons don't feel that they can come to church but do realize their need for prayer.  
 
If you would like to join us and be a part of this ministry of 
St. John's, please contact Ruth Portzline, outreachstjohns@yahoo.com.

Time to dust off your Christmas spirit!
 St John's Christmas gift to our community!   
December 16, 2018     5 PM- 8 PM  
"Drive-Thru Nativity"
Experience the complete Christmas story as you drive through the church grounds!
Your time and talents are needed to make this a huge success!!
Stay tuned for additional information!


CONTRIBUTE A DEVOTION!!
Advent is the season of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas. This should be a time for families to come together in prayer and devotion. 
 
St. John's would like to encourage this devotional time by preparing an Advent Devotional containing a reading for each day in Advent that has been written by members of our congregation.
 
If you are interested in contributing a devotion, please contact Ruth Portzline. outreachstjohns@yahoo.com, 215-357-6998. Devotions are needed by October 14th.  

DAILY DEVOTIONALS
Looking for a little inspiration during the week?  
Try an online devotional.    
(has many devotionals to choose from)
(Devotional for Women)
(Devotional for Men) 

 
If you would like to purchase Warrior Coffee, 
  order forms are available in the Grace Café.
Thank you for helping to fight for what's right
  one cup at a time!
The Grace Cafe is open Sunday mornings for fellowship and refreshments. 
UMC LINKS umc logo
 
  
  
October 4, 2018
PASTOR'S REFLECTION
umc logo
          Bishop Peggy Johnson came to each of the districts last week to share a presentation regarding the Commission on the Way Forward. As many of you know, the United Methodist Church has been struggling for many years with the issue of human sexuality. The denomination has been divided into factions, some very conservative, some very liberal, and the tensions often boil over.
 
          Perhaps you are aware that church law in the UMC mandates that we will not ordain openly gay clergy, and our clergy are forbidden to officiate at same sex marriages. In addition, the wording in the Book of Discipline (p. 161.G Social Principles) currently states the following in regard to human sexuality:
"We affirm that all persons are individuals of sacred worth, created in the image of God. All persons need the ministry of the Church in their struggles for human fulfillment, as well as the spiritual and emotional care of a fellowship that enables reconciling relationships with God, with others, and with self. The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching. We affirm that God's grace is available to all. We will seek to live together in Christian community, welcoming, forgiving, and loving one another, as Christ has loved and accepted us. We implore families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons."

          At the 2016 General Conference, the Council of Bishops proposed the formation of a Commission on the Way Forward to examine and possibly revise every paragraph of the Book of Discipline concerning human sexuality. A special General Conference on Feb. 23-26, 2019 will take up proposals related to church unity and homosexuality.
In addition to keeping this process in your prayers, I'll be sharing the information presented by Bishop Johnson at two sessions this month - Tuesday evening, October 30th at 7 pm and Wednesday morning, October 31st at 10 am. This will not be a time to discuss the topic of homosexuality or to debate the direction the church should take, but primarily to keep everyone informed about the three possible plans that were proposed by the Commission, and the recommendations of the Council of Bishops.  
 
          And certainly, above all else, keep the work of the Commission, the Council of Bishops, the Judicial Council, and the upcoming General Conference in your prayers. And let's pray for all churches and all persons, regardless of sexual orientation, who may be impacted by the decisions that will be made in February.
 
                                                Pastor Janice



Our "work-ship" morning is happening  
This Sunday, October 7!
 
Worship Service at 9 AM
in the Sanctuary
 
Work-ship project shifts at 10:15 and 11:15,
followed by prayer and benediction in Fellowship Hall at Noon.
MUSIC
RISE SUNDAY MUSIC
All Choirs sing this Sunday at the RISE Service  
at 9:00 AM.
 
Joyful Voices and Holy Handbells WILL NOT rehearse after the RISE day of service.

St. John's Vocal Choirs provide opportunities for EVERYONE to be involved in music. From young children through adults, we have a place for you in our music program. Beginning musicians and experienced singers are welcome in our Vocal Choirs.
 
COAT DRIVE
The youth choir is accepting donations for new and gently used coats in the narthex
September 30th through November 4th. 
The coats will be donated to an area shelter. 

Jackets, hoodies, hats and gloves will also be accepted.
Please contact sarah@ifloyd.com for more information or ask a choir member.
CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRIES


St. John's 9:15 Sunday School has returned!
Beginning October 14th
All Children Pre-K thru 6th grade go directly to Room D (Holywood) 


CHILDREN'S REGISTRATION 
 Kids Church    
If you have registered your children last year, then all you need to do is fill out the "short " registration form.  Those who have not registered, will need the long form.
Please help us to help your children have a safe and exciting time here at St. John's.
 
 Please click Kid's Church Registration  
or go to stjohnsivyland.com under Children's Ministry  
to register.  
 
NURSERY
Available at both  
9:15 and 10:30. 
We welcome all children birth through 4 years old.  The nursery is equipped with a calling system and will alert you in worship if your child needs you.
Help is needed in the Nursery at the 9:15 AM Service. 
Please contact David Bigam if you are available!
  
For more information about our Children or Youth Ministries, please contact Director,
David Bigam, dbigam@gmail.com  


  
   
YOUTH GROUP THIS WEEK! 
Sunday Nights from 7-8:30 PM
Fellowship and fun for youth grades 7 thru 12.
______________________________________  
 
CONFIRMATION CLASS 2018-19
If you are in 7th grade or higher and want to be confirmed in the church, the time has come! 
 
Confirmation Classes begin with a retreat here at  
St. John's on October 12-13!
 
Contact David Bigam, dbigam@gmail.com  
with any questions.  
_________________________________________
 
Morrisville Food Bank Monday
Monday, October 8th  
Please contact David Bigam.
Do Not Miss This Opportunity! 
Come and experience great Fellowship
on the 2nd Monday of every month! 
Morrisville is open to EVERYONE interested in going to help make 220 grocery bags full of food. 
Families are always welcome! 
Following this event we always head to Chick-fil-a for Milkshakes!!!!

OCTOBER 21, 2018 -
REMEMBER THIS DATE AS IT MAY BE YOUR LAST!

Sign up outside the youth room....if you DARE!
______________________________________________
Oh Yes We Did!
Tis the Season...Wreath Sale

Christmas shopping has begun!
Christmas will be here before you know it!
Taking orders now!
All proceeds fund our ASP Mission Trip in July 2019

______________________________________________

And as always
Bring a Friend and Bring a Can!
_______________________________________________

Have you HELPED anyone today?
Have you SAID SOMETHING NICE to anyone today?

David Bigam, Director of Children and Youth Ministries
dbigam@gmail.com

BIBLE STUDIES

BIBLE STUDY OPPORTUNITIES
We have several Bible study opportunities - and three ways to register for them!  Continue reading for more detailed descriptions of each study.  You can sign up online, on the tear-off sheets in the bulletin or on sign-up sheets on the yellow bulletin board by the Grace Cafe. No sign-up is needed for the Wired Word.

NEW DAILY STUDY BIBLE:
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
by William Barclay

Wednesday evenings at 7 PM,
Grace Cafe
began September 19
(You may still join in at any time!)
 
We'll be using the New Daily Study Bible by William Barclay, The Gospel of Luke, for our study book. Our goals for the study are to deepen our understanding of the Word of God and Who Jesus is as revealed to us by the Scriptures of Jesus's life, ministry, death and resurrection. William Barclay is a world-renowned Biblical scholar whose commentary on these Scriptures will help reveal to us the understanding we seek and bring us closer to the God we love and serve. Please feel free to invite others and hope to see you for our study in His Name. This study is led by Ken Lee and the cost of the book is $15.
HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY COURSE
Course developed by Paul Henry

Tuesday Evenings - 7 PM
October 2-23 - Parlor
and
Tuesday Mornings - 10 AM
October 9-30 - Grace Cafe and Parlor

"Resurrection to Rome" a four week course to explore the early history of Christianity will be taught by Paul Henry in October. The course will explore the incredible growth of the Christian Church from the few disciples of Jesus who gathered at the foot of the cross on Good Friday to a worldwide religious movement by 350 A.D. Come and find out the dynamics of this growth and learn about your own Christian DNA.  The course will be offered on Tuesday evenings at 7 PM from October 2-October 23, and also on Tuesday mornings at 10 AM from October 9-October 30.  A copy of the course outline is posted on the yellow bulletin board next to the Grace Cafe.
ETERNITY IS NOW IN SESSION 
by John Ortberg & Gary Moon
 
Monday evenings at 6:45
October 15 - November 12
Parlor 

  For Christians, perhaps the deepest expression of what we're waiting for is found in the phrase "eternal life." But what is eternal life? Why do we want it? And how do we know if we have it?

In the Eternity Is Now in Session Participant's Guide, author John Ortberg takes you on a radical journey of rediscovery, dispelling the myth that eternal life is something way out in outer space that we can only hope to experience after we die. Instead, John unpacks the reality that the moment we trust Christ, we are initiated into "eternal living" with God as a here-and-now reality, one that will continue beyond our life on this earth.

The study is led by Barbara Schneider and Carol Campbell and the cost of the book is $8. 
   

The Wired Word
led by Eileen Phillips
Drop-in class resuming 10/14, 2nd and 4th Sundays, 10:30 A.M.
Church Library (by the Youth Room)
 
Each session, this group will focus on a current event or relevant news item to be discussed and analyzed in a Biblical context. Group members engage in meaningful discussions through insightful lessons and learn how Scripture relates to their daily lives. This is an ongoing study, and drop-ins are welcome.

HUMAN SEXUALITY:
"THE WAY FORWARD FOR THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH"
  • On February 23-26, 2019, a special session of General Conference will meet in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 864 elected delegates (1/2 clergy and ½ lay) from all over the world will gather to vote on our denomination's stance on human sexuality.
  • Decisions will be made regarding the current wording regarding homosexuality in the Book of Discipline as well as the ordination of gay clergy and same sex marriage.
You are invited to join Pastor Janice for an information session on "The Way Forward" based on Bishop Peggy Johnson's District presentations.

Two Sessions:
Tuesday, October 30 at 7 PM
Wednesday, October 31 at 10 AM

Sign up sheet is available in the Narthex!

BOOK CLUB
Snowflower and the  
Secret Fan
by: Lisa See
Wednesday, October 23  
10 AM and 7 PM in Parlor 
 
The next book club meeting will be Wednesday, October 23 at 10 AM and 7 PM in the Parlor. We will be reading Snowflower and the Secret Fan, by Lisa See. "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is a brilliantly realistic journey back to an era of Chinese history that is as deeply moving as it is sorrowful. With the period detail and deep resonance of Memoirs of a Geisha, this lyrical and emotionally charged novel delves into one of the most mysterious of human relationships: female friendship.
ADULT/FAMILY MINISTRY

HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE TRIP!
We have reserved a block of tickets for Hunterdon Hills Playhouse Dinner Theatre's matinee production of
Christmas in the Air!
 
This luncheon show is Thursday, November 29, 2018 and is an original, holiday musical with songs, comedy sketches, dance numbers, and a live on-stage orchestra.
The cost is $95 per person and includes deluxe motor coach transportation, full course meal, dessert buffet, tax & gratuity. Bus leaves from St. John's at 9:30 AM.

We had a great time when we visited the playhouse last Spring and are excited to return! You can sign up for the trip in Narthex after church, or contact Lara Bolte ( stjadultministries@gmail.com or 215-357-6998).
Checks should be made payable to St. John's UMC and can be placed in Lara's Bolte's Mailbox near the church office or given directly to her.
Payment due by 11/21/18.

1st Wednesday of each month -  6:45 PM
Fellowship Hall
Next Session - November 7th
No experience necessary - come out and have fun!
No Fee.
Bring water!
All ages are welcome, and feel free to bring a friend.
Call Carol Eberz (215-355-3572) or Jane Horton (215-630-6020) with questions!

CROP HUNGER WALK
Sunday, October 14
Doylestown United Methodist Church is hosting a
Crop Hunger Walk sponsored by Church World Service on
Sunday, October 14. The walk begins at 1:30 PM and is 5K, with an option of shortening it to 1K. Walkers are encouraged to raise funds through email, social media, or other methods. These funds are then used by Church World Service through grassroots development efforts to combat hunger worldwide. Additionally, 25% of the funds raised for this particular walk will go to Doylestown FISH, which provides emergency services to locals in need. For more information, contact Lara Bolte at 215-357-6998 ext. 309, stjadultministries@gmail.com.
UMW/UMM
 
UNITED METHODIST MEN'S BREAKFAST
 
Saturday, October 20, 2018 
Fellowship Hall 
8 AM 
All Men Welcome!

Sign-up Sheet in Church Narthex 

ELECTION DAY BAKE SALE 
BAKERS NEEDED
 
The United Methodist Women are having an Election Day Bake Sale to raise money for the many missions we sponsor throughout the year.  Baked goods are needed to keep our table going for the entire day.  If you like to bake and are willing to help, please place your baked goods in the kitchen prior to Tuesday, November 6th, or you may place your items in the frig or freezer marked UMW Bake Sale.  If the stove is not your best friend or you are short on time, you can help by manning the bake sale table for two hours on Election Day.  There is a sign up sheet on the UMW bulletin board.  The United Methodist Women appreciate the congregation's support and we would not be able to continue the work that we do without you.  Thank you.  For more information, please contact Kathy Keppol at 215-357-7404.