The Centinel 12-2-05

Sunday Worship Schedule

9:00 AM   Worship and Kids’ Time
10:00 AM Fellowship Time
10:30 AM Worship and FaithWalk

Upcoming Centinel Deadlines:

December 12 and January 2

Advent and Christmas at Centennial UMC

Children’s Christmas Worship: December 11 at 10:30 AM
Carols during Fellowship Time: December 11 and 18, 10:00 AM
Christmas Choir Concert: December 18, 4:00 PM, harp prelude at 3:45 PM
Angel Display in Linden Court: December 18, 10:30 AM–7:00 PM

Christmas Eve Services
 4:00 PM Family Oriented Worship
 7:00 PM Youth-led Worship
 11:00 PM Candlelight Worship

Christmas Day
10:00 AM Combined congregation and Christmas Carol Sing (Please note change of time)

New Year’s Day
10:00 AM Combined congregation (Please note change of time)

Bishop Dyck's Response to Judicial Council Ruling

It has been several weeks since the Judicial Council, in decision 1032, ruled that a Virginia pastor legally had the right to deny a homosexual man membership in his church. In that time, clergy and lay members of The United Methodist Church have been in troubled conversations about the ruling. In addition to the statements made by the Council of Bishops at the time of the ruling, Bishop Sally Dyck has offered some of her reflections on the decision, which can be read at the Bishop's Corner on the conference web site. Her most recent message explained the legal background of the decision, and reminded us that we all need the grace of Christ to become free from our sins. She also commented on a statement made by the Commission on Communication of The United Methodist Church, which calls on the people of The United Methodist Church to keep our hearts, minds, and doors open to all seeking Christ.

Read more about it at www.minnesotaumc.org.

A message from Jan Petit at UMCOR Sager Brown

Dear Centennial Friends:

UMCOR Sager Brown is very busy these days receiving generous gifts and volunteers from all over the United States. We are sending out about five trucks every day with supplies for distribution centers throughout the disaster areas. We are also sending out teams of volunteers to help families make their homes livable after the flood. Many of the shelters around this area are now empty as people have found trailers or family to shelter them. Our biggest request is for flood buckets and cleaning supplies. We also give out basic living supplies for the people who have lost everything. We have hired extra staff under a program for displaced workers from the New Orleans area so we get to hear their stories and help them as they relocate.

My job is to coordinate the volunteers, make sure they have adequate living space while they are here, help plug them into the many tasks which need to be done and keep the cook informed about how many people to feed. Much time is spent on the telephone responding to people who want to do something to help. I listen to the stories of the truck drivers to keep in perspective why we are doing this. I have met so many dedicated and caring people who give of themselves and their resources that it gives me hope in the midst of the sadness here. Keep Sager Brown and the people in the Gulf area in your prayers.

Jan Pettit

UMCOR receives government contract

Did you know that UMCOR has received a government contract for case management of hurricane victims for two years through a $66 million grant? FEMA will oversee the implementation, and UMCOR will choose a maximum of 12 other agencies which will come from both faith-based and secular arenas. UMCOR will use donations from United Methodist churches and other donors to extend the case management beyond the two year period. The work of UMCOR is recognized as an integral part of hurricane recovery and disaster relief.

Pastors’ Keyboard

It is snowing as I write this, and it snowed a good part of the night, making driving slow and treacherous this morning. I am thankful today for cautious drivers, drivers who know how to deal with Twin Cities winters.

But this isn’t the first snow of the winter. That came a couple of weeks ago. Although the driving was slowed considerably that morning as well, I found myself positively gleeful as I walked into the office. You see, that snowfall reminded me of one of the primary reasons I decided to return to my home state of Minnesota after I graduated from divinity school at Duke. I spent seven consecutive winters in Oklahoma and North Carolina during my college and grad school days, and during the last couple of years of that time I found that I would watch the national news showing snowstorms in Minnesota—and I would miss being there for them! Call me crazy, but the theatre of seasons that is Minnesota beckoned me back.  

Especially winter. I love the way the wind blows wisps and mini-blizzards of snow off roofs. I love running through snowdrifts, punching holes in the surface, pushing my body. I love the way a snowfall blends earth and heaven. I even enjoy bundling up against sub-zero cold and walking the family dog (sometimes). I love warming up with a good book or good friends inside, the wind howling outside.

I find that it is important to pay attention to nature’s rhythms. Exulting in a beautiful spring day. Giving oneself time to wind down when night falls. Gazing out the window at a majestic thunderstorm. In our workaday world we can end up moving so fast that God might well not have made the seasons at all—or the seasons of our lives. Will I slow down to take the time to love the people around me during this hectic season leading up to Christmas? Will I claim the season of life that I am in right now and embrace the companioning God who has given me this time—not tomorrow, but this time? Just some questions for us this December….

In Christ’s love and service,

Brian

Parish Nurse Opening

The Staff Parish Relations Committee invites interested persons from Centennial to inquire or apply for the Parish Nurse staff position. This ministry combines nursing and faith to assist faith communities in caring for individuals and families and in promoting wellness in body, mind and spirit. It is a 10 hour per week position, open to a registered nurse licensed to practice in Minnesota and who has a commitment to a wholistic concept of health care. Experience in teaching, health education, and health promotion is desirable and community/public health nursing experience is helpful. Christi Wirth-Davis, Staff Parish Chair, and Jan Daniels, founder of Parish Nursing at Centennial, will provide additional information about the position. The committee will begin reviewing resumes in December. Contact Jan at the church office, 651.633.7644.

The Gathering

Are you caring for a loved one with memory loss? If so, you might be interested in The Gathering!

The Gathering provides a safe place for elders experiencing memory loss and gives respite to caregivers who desire a break. The group meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Participants enjoy friendship and support of dedicated volunteers while involved with stimulating activities. The cost is $6 per day to cover the cost of the bus ride and lunch at Lyngblomsten Care Center. Contact Jan Daniels, Parish Nurse and Lead Volunteer for more info. Church: 651.633.7644, or home: 651.633.8903.

Important YOUTH Dates:

Senior High Mission Trip: June 17-25, 2006 (roughly)
Confirmation Trip to the Boundary Waters: July 16-21, 2006
Junior High Mission Trip: July 30-August 4, 2006
TYL Camp: July 30-August 5, 2006

LOGOS has begun!
LOGOS is our new senior high fellowship on Wednesday Evenings from 7:00-8:30 PM! All 10-12 grade students are invited!

Youth Ski Trip
Our Lutsen Ski Trip will be Feb. 10-12 and we’ll be joined by youth from Advent UMC in Eagan. Our 2-night, 2-day ski trip to Lutsen is a fantastic time of outdoor adventure and north shore beauty. Cost: $125/person includes two days’ lift tickets, lodging, meals, swimming and transportation.

Confirmation Mission First Night
is on the second Wednesday in December. We will be going to Operation Christmas Child Dec. 14 to help with the production line in sending gifts to children around the world. The project will be longer than normal confirmation so please plan accordingly. Meet at church at 5:15 PM and return by 9:00 PM.

Christmas Choir Concert

Sunday, December 18 at 4:00 PM the Chancel Choir, Sunshine Singers, Wesley Ringers, Circuit Riders, and Motet Ensemble will present a Christmas concert in the Sanctuary. The concert will include Benjamin Britten’s “Ceremony of Carols” sung by the Chancel Choir and accompanied by harp. There will also be Christmas carols sung by all and a harp prelude beginning at 3:45 PM. A free-will offering will be received with proceeds going to the Music Ministry of Centennial. A reception will follow the concert and child care will be available.

A message from the Trustees

Sidewalks Around Centennial
You may have noticed that sidewalks have been added on the east and north sides of the Church property this fall. The City of Roseville contacted the church in late summer indicating that they would like to put sidewalks along the edge of our property to connect the new residences at Applewood to sidewalks along the frontage road on Snelling Avenue. Since the City would pay for installation, maintenance, and plowing of snow on the sidewalks, a group composed of Trustees and other church leaders decided that this would be a good way to support the surrounding area and enhance our facilities. The City obtained an easement in areas where the sidewalk was routed on our property to avoid existing power poles. We believe the new sidewalks will benefit the church and the community.

Roof Repair
The roofs on the Sanctuary and Asbury Hall were replaced in early November. The mid-September wind and hail storm caused damage on the roofs and some leakage in the Sanctuary. The heavy rain storm in early October resulted in more leaks. The insurance adjuster evaluated both roofs and indicated that they needed to be replaced. Fortunately our insurance policy pays for replacement value with a small deductible. These two roofs were last replaced in 1987. All of the other roofs were replaced in late 2001 or early 2002 as part of the remodeling, so all of church roof areas have now been updated within the last four years.

Parish Nurse Notes

It’s here! The busiest, most exciting month of the year. I appreciate that you are taking time in your busy schedule to read my column. Just one piece of advice for all—pace yourselves!

Get good nutrition, take time to reflect, rest, enjoy. Most of all, remember: It’s all about that tiny Baby’s birthday. Everything else is beside the point.

Anyone interested in being part of a diabetes support group, please call me at CUMC or at my home, 651.633.8903. If there is interest we will start a group.

If anyone needs durable medical equipment we have a supply of walkers, elevated toilet seats, crutches and wheelchairs. Contact me.

If you would like to contribute a gift to a Lyngblomsten resident, please donate by Dec. 11. A collection box is at the Welcome Center. Examples of $10–$15 items: purchase cookies, sun catchers, board games, scarf and mittens, and large print books.

A new Yogadevotion Class will run January 12–March 2. A sign up sheet will be at the Welcome Center by Dec. 15. Cost: $50 for eight sessions. 

May your holidays be a blessing for all of you.

In Partnership with Lyngblomsten,

Jan Daniels (parishnurse@centennialumc.org)

Remember in Prayer

Todd Lewis who is in active military service.

We celebrate the baptism of Spencer Keith Eidman, son of Keith and Cherste Eidman, who was baptized on November 27, 2005.

The marriage of Sarah Elizabeth Lund and Jeffrey Brandon Shaw, who were married at Centennial on November 4, 2005.

We remember Leonard Harkness, who passed away October 27, 2005. His Celebration of Life was held at Centennial on November 5, 2005.

Bonnie Vernier, who passed away November 6, 2005. Her Celebration of Life was held at Centennial on November 11, 2005.

Otto Bruss, who passed away November 12, 2005. His Celebration of Life was held at Centennial on November 17, 2005.

Vera DeGraw, mother of Ruth Rice, who passed away November 28. 

Praying through our Membership Rolls

Our prayers for each other empower us and create joyful bonds of love!

Ray and Tillie Hermanson
Nina Heuer
Carrie Hildreth
Douglas and Ruth Hildreth
Lisa Hildreth
Greg, Tammy, RaeAnn and Tom Hill
Martha Hill
Margaret Hiner
Daryl and Joyce Hirschel
Denise, Judd, Lucas, Victoria,Elizabeth and Wesley Hites

Changes in membership

Transfers

Jay Coggins and Wendy Rahn to St. Anthony Park UMC.
Rebecca Kohlenberg to Community UMC in Monticello MN.

Withdrawn

Karen Wetzell

New members received Nov. 20

Roy Wervey
Nancy Gysbers
Bonnie and Earl Petre
Susan and Michael Pederson
Jan and Craig Williamson

Thank You

We sincerely appreciate the cards, letters and kind words of condolence that we received from the pastors and many Centennial friends following the death of Jim's mother Helen House.

Jim and Jan House

Thank You

We wish to thank each and every one of you who has touched our lives and the lives of our four children during the twenty-seven years Centennial has served as our church home. It is difficult to say good-bye to the church that means so much to us. We wish to extend a special thanks to the Anew Voice folks and the Adult Bible Study Class for the two terrific send-off parties. You all—or now it is "y'all"—will continue to be in our hearts and prayers.

Sam and Alice Marks
1316 Whispering Sands
Port Aransas, TX 78373

Thank You

Jean Rieke and Ray Roberts would like to thank all the wonderful volunteers who so willingly offered their help in serving funerals this past year. This vital service couldn't function without you and we are continually grateful.

Fellowship Opportunities

Call for more information. Sign-up at the Welcome Center.

ASSETS* (Adult Singles Enjoying Togetherness) Luncheon at Vonnie Olson’s, 12:00 Noon on Dec. 14. Bring an unwrapped gift or toy for charity. Contact JosMarie, 651.766.6730 or Vonnie, 651.633.5508.

Bridge Club will meet in homes the first Friday of the month Contact Marion and Dwight Peterson, 651.633.41786.

Deborah Fellowship (women of all ages) will meet at 8:30 AM at Baker’s Square the first Friday of each month. Contact Nancy Ness 651.483.3663.

Junior High Group Youth band practice on Sundays at 12:00 Noon, with lunch. Youth Christmas Party Dec. 15, 7:00 PM to 12:00 Midnight. White Elephant Gift Exchange.

Married Couples Group (20s, 30s, 40s) meet Sat, Dec. 17, 6:00 PM for a Christmas Potluck/Gift Exchange. Contact Dawn and Mark Meyer, 651.486.0757.

Men's Club will meet Monday, Jan. 16, watch for more information.

Piecemakerswomen that meet 9:30-11:30 AM each Wednesday at the church for fellowship and craftwork. Contact Donna Hedblom 651.633.4191.

Plug & Chug (over the age of 13) work for Habitat for Humanity 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM every Thursday. Contact Ken Tate at 651.633.6108 or Don Hopkins 651.628.9713.

Prime Timers (couples and singles 45+) Christmas Potluck/White Elephant Gift Exchange, Dec. 16, 6:00 PM at Pat Baker’s, 1034 Westcliff Curve, Shoreview. Sign up at the Welcome Center or call 651.631.2263.

RARES will meet Thursday, Jan. 12 for a luncheon and presentation, watch for more information. Contact Joyce Rosene, 651.484.4582.

Senior High Group Youth band practice Sundays at 12:00 Noon, with lunch provided. Youth Christmas Party Dec. 15, 7:00 PM to 12:00 Midnight. White Elephant Gift Exchange. LOGOS is here! LOGOS is a youth-led discussion/study on Wednesdays following Wed. Night Worship. Contact Kelly Swanson, 651.633.7644.

SOS* (Slightly Older Singles) Meet January 21 for “An afternoon with Mar.” Contact Mar Carlson, 651.653.3470 or Marilyn Dunshee, 651.489.1809.

United Methodist Women (UMW) The January UMW program will attend the RARES event on January 12. Watch for more information.

Women's Breakfast Fellowship (women of all ages) meets every Wednesday, 7:00-8:00 AM at Byerly's. Contact Thelma Boeder 651.489.2604.

Women's Night Out (women in fellowship) No meeting in January, watch for more information. Contact Wendy Cederholm, 651.482.8592.

Young Adult Ministry (ages 18–35, single or married with no children) Join for a Holiday Gathering at Pastor Melanie’s home (1555 Almond Avenue, St. Paul) on Dec. 11 at 6:00 PM. Bring a holiday treat to share! Watch for information about winter events for Young Adults, or contact Pastor Melanie, mhoman@centennialumc.org, or at the church office.

*Scholarships are available and confidential for Centennial sponsored events. Please contact one of the pastors. Contact Child Care Supervisor-Coordinator, Jean Moline, by leaving a message at 651.633.7644 ext. 38 at least 48 hours before an event. If there are no calls, child care will not be provided.

Staff

Pastor: Brian C. Hacklander: bhacklander@centennialumc.org
Pastor: Melanie Homan: mhoman@centennialumc.org
Minister of Christian Education: Joan Lilja: jlilja@centennialumc.org
Director of Music/Organist: Robert Nienaber: rgnjr@centennialumc.org
Director of Youth Ministries: Kelly Swanson: kswanson@centennialumc.org
Director of Red Robin Preschool: Nan Carlson: ncarlson@centennialumc.org
Church Administrator: Lisa Schuler: lisas@centennialumc.org
Admin. Assistant/Membership Records: Julie Elholm: jelholm@centennialumc.org Communications/Children's Choirs: Deb Olsen: dolsen@centennialumc.org
Child Care Supervisor/Coordinator: Jean Moline
Custodian: Gordon Overbo
Parish Nurse: Jan Daniels: parishnurse@centennialumc.org
Chancel Choir Accompanist: Bobbi Peterson
Youth Band Director: Jacob Notch
Youth Ministry Intern: Lindsay Bacher
Wedding Liaison: Deanna Kieffer
Alternate Wedding Liaison: Tracie Ball   

Volunteer Staff:

Funeral Coordinator: Jean Van Doren
Associate Funeral Coordinator: Marilyn Roberts
Steward of Capital Funds and Planned Giving: Bob Rosene
Pastors Emeriti: Clarence Nicholas, Joyce Rosene

Church office hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday