2007 Archived News Stories For Franklin Circle Christian Church

December 2007

Penny War to raise money for the Emergency Fund
Bring your pennies to church during the month of December in a competition vs. the adults, all to help raise $ for the church's Emergency Fund.

Community Christmas Card Tree

With the cost of postage so high these days, and many of us trying to live in more ecologically-friendly ways, the Franklin Circle Christian Church Board suggested that this year we send/give one Christmas Card to the entire Church family. So, we are going to create a "Christmas Card Tree" by posting our Christmas cards (those hand delivered and those mailed) onto one of the walls of the Chapel in the shape of a big Christmas Tree. That way those who come to church on Sunday during December can read each of the cards of other members and friends. In the January and February Messengers we will list the names of those who sent cards to the Community Christmas Card Tree for all to enjoy.

Merry Christmas!

The Blazing River Freedom Band will present their 4th annual A Family
Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 8th, 2007 at 7:30 PM. 
The concert will be held at Franklin Circle Church at 1688 Fulton Road in
the Ohio City neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio.  A suggested donation of
$5.00 is encouraged at the door. 

Come join us for an evening of yuletide favorites, including works such
as Carol of the Bells, The Nutcracker Suite, Home for the Holidays,
Shalom Chaverim, Celebration! and ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. 
There may even be a special visitor from the North Pole!!

This family-friendly concert will be conducted by well-known local and
international musician George W. Oberdorf and will feature a bake sale
of Holiday goodies made by members of the Band at intermission in the
green room .

For more information, please call 216-618-0059, or email us for more
information at tenorig@aol.com. 

Thank you for your help in spreading the word!

Sincerely,
George W. Oberdorf
President/Artistic Director
Blazing River Freedom Band
 

21st Annual Candlelight Vigil Memorial Service

for those who died homeless or having experienced homelessness in 2007,

Friday, December 21, 2007, 5:15 p.m.,

with a special meal presented by Franklin Circle Christian Church after the service.

All are welcome to this memorial with homeless people of Cleveland. 

Bring the names of those who have died on the streets or those who were homeless at some point in the recent past.

Prayers will be offered this year from the Muslim, Baha'i, and Christian (Catholic) faiths.

Tom Wolf & Steve Thompson will provide music for the program and dinner.

For more information, call NEOCH at 216-432-0540.

Presented by: CareAlliance, Cuyahoga County/City Office of Homeless Services, Franklin Circle Christian Church, InterAct Cleveland, Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH), and Louis Stokes Department of Veterans Affairs.

For a flyer (in Adobe .pdf format) click on the candle above or click HERE!

Christmas Special Offering Supports Our Regional Church
     December 16 and 23 we will receive our Christmas Special Offering in addition to our regular offering, all of which will go to support the work of our Ohio Regional Church.  With the gifts they receive, Regional Ministries: support congregations through planning, visioning, pastoral care and conflict management; empower leaders through workshops, resources, and networking; strengthen ministry through calling new ministers, licensing, ordaining, and maintaining current ministers; grow faithful disciples through camps, conferences, youth ministries, and ministries to women and men; and outreach through establishing new congregations, eradicating racism, sharing in mission with projects and trips, and ecumenical partnerships.
     Please give generously to the Christmas Special Offering, and by doing so “let us thank God for His priceless gift!” (2 Cor. 9:15).
 

Journey to Bethlehem
Euclid Avenue Christian Church‘s 25th year of Journey to

Bethlehem will be on Sunday, December 9 continuously from 2
to 5 pm at the church, 3663 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Heights
(across from Severance Town Center). Journey to Bethlehem is
an indoor walk-thru drama depicting life in Bethlehem at the
time of Jesus' birth with all the sights, smells and sounds of the
marketplace. Between your audience with King Herod to the
baby in the manger, you will see all the shops, smell and pet the
live animals, and hear the voices of the Roman guards as they
hurry the crowd along. You will be entertained during your
indoor "wait" with music, puppets, etc. Over 100 costumed
church members are waiting for you to experience the miracle
of Christ's birth as we've told it over the years. This is our gift
to the community - there is no charge. Journey is wheel-chair
accessible.
For questions or more information call 216-382-5344.
 

Caroling Party, Sunday, December 16, 5-7:30 p.m.
     Once again all neighbors and church members are invited to join in the annual Community Caroling Party on Sunday, December 16.  Everyone will gather at St. Paul's Community United Church of Christ, at 45th St. and Franklin Boulevard, at 5 p.m. -- dress warmly!  We'll then head off as a group to several neighborhood institutions to bring cheer and the sounds of the Christmas season to those who might benefit from a song and a smile.  A van will be available for those who need assistance.  And, as we do each year, we will end up at Franklin Circle Christian Church at about 7 p.m. to gather for hot cider, hot chocolate, and Christmas goodies.
     Your help is needed!   Please warm up your voices and join us at 5 p.m. at St. Paul's UCC.  Folks who can donate baked goods are needed, and they can be dropped of at our church after 4:30 p.m. on that day.  Also, folks are needed to host the party, to get the drinks and food ready and have the place warm and welcoming when the carolers arrive.  If you can help, speak to Pastor Allen or Annie Wolf.


Calling All Camp Christian Alumni!
     On May 2nd and 3rd, 2008, Camp Christian will _bubble over_ with excitement.  Camp Christian will have its first Homecoming and Open House event. Camp Christian Alumni from across the globe are being invited to revisit Camp for a time of reunion, revival, revelry and rededication.  We are thrilled to combine the Homecoming with our annual Open House for a combination of food, fun and fellowship.  Spread the word and save the date ... you'll be glad you did!
 

DISCIPLES THEOLOGY PROFESSOR BECOMES GENERAL SECRETARY OF NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) clergyman and seminary professor Michael Kinnamon has become the ninth general secretary of the National Council of Churches (USA). He was unanimously elected by paper ballot on Thursday, Nov. 8 by delegates attending the annual General Assembly of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC), which took place Nov. 6-8 in New Jersey and New York City. More than 200 delegates from 35 Christian communions attended the assembly. The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a member communion of the NCC.

"There is a general consensus that this is a very exciting moment for the National Council of Churches," said General Minister and President Sharon E. Watkins. "Michael Kinnamon brings a seasoned theological mind and a great ability to articulate a passion for the wholeness of the Church. He also has a proven commitment to seeing God's justice made known on the earth and he's one of our most important mentors to a new generation of ecumenical leadership. All of this combines to make him the right leader for this moment. It's a proud moment for Disciples to be able to offer one of our own into this kind of leadership."

For more about Kinnamon's installation, go to: www.ncccusa.org/news/071108kinnamoninstalled.html

Holiday History Classes
Led by Michelle Brown
Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m., January 9th through February 27th
Come learn about the history and background to some of our most treasured holidays, sacred and secular.  Holidays include: Ash Wednesday, Valentines Day, and St. Patrick's Day.  More more information, contact Michelle Brown at DOCMICHELLEDOC@aol.com or by calling 216-392-6205.

November 2007

Bethany College Selects Scott D. Miller as President Well-Known President of Delaware's Oldest Private College Will Arrive January 1   Bethany College announces selection of Scott D. Miller, Ph.D., as its 19th president, effective January 1. A national leader in higher education, Dr. Miller has been the president of Wesley College, Dover, Delaware, since 1997. He will take the helm from Bethany's current president, G.T. "Buck" Smith, who is retiring after four years of service to the institution. "Buck Smith has done an outstanding job as President, and he gave Bethany exactly what it needed during these years and, most importantly, positioned us to attract an outstanding President to take the college forward into the future," said Gregory B. Jordan, Chairman of Bethany's Board of Trustees. In speaking of the selection of Dr. Miller, Jordan remarked, "After an exhaustive national search, I am confident we have found the best person to provide leadership for this important period in our institutional history. His record at Wesley demonstrates exactly the dynamic vision and ability to grow the college that we need to achieve a very bright and vibrant future at Bethany." The Entrepreneurial President The 48-year old Miller is nationally recognized for his contributions to and success in higher education. He was one of 17 college presidents nationwide featured in The Entrepreneurial College President published by the American Council on Education in 2004. In 2002, his achievements at Wesley were touted as representing an "amazing turnaround" in The Small College Guide to Financial Health. According to Charles "Chip" R. Dashiell, Jr., Chair of Wesley's Board of Trustees, "Dr. Miller's legacy at Wesley is one of exceptional accomplishment.  During his tenure here, the college's enrollment has tripled, fund raising has been robust, our endowment has doubled and the institution has been named to the prestigious Regional Best Colleges list of U.S. News and World Report for four consecutive years. Thanks to his strong strategic leadership, Wesley has become a vibrant, progressive institution, well-positioned to take advantage of new opportunities."  "It is now time to let others build on Wesley's firm foundation while I take on new challenges at Bethany," said Dr. Miller.  He noted that Bethany's strong tradition of liberal arts education, its strong sense of mission, and its small, student-centered campus were additional factors in his decision to accept its presidency. A nationally-known speaker and writer on national higher education issues, Miller served two years as vice-chair of the Council of Independent Colleges Board in Washington, D.C. He is currently chairing the Council's New Presidents Program. He is currently in his 17th year as a college president. Dr. Miller is frequently featured in trade journals including Trusteeship, journal of the American Association of Governing Boards, University Business and College Planning and Management. His most recent book, Presidential Perspectives: Creating Competitive Advantages, co-edited with Dr. Marylouise Fennell, was published in January 2007.  Dr. Fennell is a former president of Pittsburgh's Carlow University and currently serves as Senior Counsel to the Council of Independent Colleges. According to Dr. Fennell, "Dr. Miller will put Bethany in the spotlight within the higher education community, and I am confident he will take it to the highest possible level of performance. He is clearly a leader who can bring Bethany's rich heritage, strong educational capabilities, enduring values, dedication to students and civic-minded alumni together to achieve common goals in the years ahead.  He is a perfect match for this leadership opportunity."   A western Pennsylvania native, Dr. Miller noted that his new post will bring him closer to his personal roots, as well as those of his wife, Annie, a native of Ohio.  He is a 1981 graduate of West Virginia Wesleyan College and was a newspaper reporter for three central West Virginia newspapers. He earned his Master's Degree from the University of Dayton in 1984, and his Ph.D. from The Union Institute and University in 1991.  Dr. Miller also earned an Ed.S. degree from Vanderbilt University in1988.

Welcome New Member, Caroline Johnson
On Sunday, October 7, we welcomed into membership Caroline J. Johnson by transfer. Caroline was born into the Assembly Of God tradition, but has been United Methodist since she was young. Caroline and her fiancé, Steven Rubin, have become familiar to many members of the congregation over the past few years. They invite the congregation to their wedding on Saturday, November 17 at 3 p.m. at Franklin Circle Christian Church.
 

World AIDS Day -- December 1
from Sharon Thomas, Elder

Many folks of Franklin Circle Christian Church have heard my personal testimonial that I've been living with the AIDS virus for 19 years.

There are so many emotional ups and downs, just like cancer, that occur during hearing this news.  I've been certified by the Red Cross to do education, but that was never enough.  I wanted to ask God why AIDS is here and why God would let people and families suffer, so I began and AIDS MINISTRY!  This happened in 1991 and I continue sharing information and being available in the Shared Ministry of Ohio City.  I've also graduated from the National Faith Leaders' Training.  As we approach World AIDS Day this year, we'll be presenting the following program:

Sunday, November 18 -- a personal testimonial from a PLWH/A (Person Living With HIV/AIDS).  Distribution of The Circuit Rider, a Methodist pastor's newsletter, completely dedicated to the AIDS virus.

We hope you'll take this newsletter home, read the articles and bring back questions the following Sunday.

Sunday, November 25 -- another personal testimonial during worship.  After church, we hope everyone will join us for community hour where we'll have a panel accepting questions about HIV/AIDS.  Realizing many families are together, we're hoping your entire family can stay, join our community hour, and listen as those of us living with HIV/AIDS put a face on this pandemic, give education, and prayerfully receive a handshake or hug.  The program should last about an hour so everyone can plan their dinner accordingly.  I hope the youth group will also sit in on this valuable opportunity.

SPECIAL NOTE:  Pastor Allen will get tested for HIV/AIDS, so we can all see how simple testing is.

Thanks, and hope to see everyone in church!
With Blessings And Wishes For Good Health,
Sharon Thomas


From The Board Chairman
As Chairman of the Board, I would like to thank the congregation for their faith and financial support in our quest of having and Associate Pastor For Youth.  We are putting together the Search Committee that should be in place shortly.  Please pray and ask God for guidance as they look for candidates.
Al Betts, Chair

Christian Women United News/Christian Women's Fellowship News
Near and Far Westpark District of Church Women United is responsible for cookie donations for the USO in November.  Collection date will be announced.  Each month one of the districts provides cookies.

The Christian Women's Fellowship of Franklin Circle Christian Church will be hosting World Community Day Friday, November 2 at 10:00 a.m.  The theme is "Embracing Justice Under God's Tent."  The health kits we have been assembling all year will be dedicated at this service.

Our jar painted with the logo of the "Fellowship Of The Least Coin" is on the table in the back of the sanctuary ready to collect your pennies.  The Fellowship of the Least Coin is an ecumenical movement of prayer for peace, justice, and reconciliation.  This is not a fund raiser, but, rather a commitment to spend time in prayer and to fund grants to strengthen ecumenical solidarity, and aid in disaster relief and rehabilitation.


Members 411
On Saturday, October 6 Claude Pitman and Joe Stanley hosted eight members of the Circle K college service club for a special work day here at FCCC. The young people came from as far away as Buffalo and Pittsburg, and as close as Baldwin Wallace College and John Carroll University.

On Wednesday, October 10 Ralph Eyring led a group of women from the Cleveland Chapter of the Red Hat Society for a tour of the church.
We celebrated the wedding of Stacey Brown & David Bowen in our sanctuary on Saturday, October 6. Likewise, we celebrated the wedding of Hannah Fritzman and Michael Belsito in our sanctuary on Saturday, October 17. We rejoice that both of these wonderful couples have chosen to be a part of the Franklin Circle Christian Church family of faith!

We welcome the Rev. Dr. Jack Sullivan as Pastor of Fifth Christian Church here in Cleveland. Most recently, Dr. Sullivan was Regional Minister of the Northwest Region of the Christian Church, senior pastor of United Christian Church in Detroit. He served as a Homeland Ministries associate for African American Christian education from 1989 to 1995.
 

Emergency Fund In Need
Remember to give to the Emergency Fund! This fund helps members of the congregation and community who are in a time of crisis in their lives. Recent gifts have helped individuals and families: purchase medications, repair vandalized cars, buy food, help with rent, help with utility bills, have bus fare to get to work, and so much more. Please designate your over-and-above gifts as “Emergency Fund.” Thank you!

Disney's Beauty and the Beast
November 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 29 & 30
December 1 &2

     “New and a bit alarming
     Who'd have ever thought that this could be?
     True that he's no Prince Charming
     But there's something in him that I simply didn't see.”

     Step into the enchanted world of Broadway’s modern classic, Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.  Based on the Academy Award winning animated feature, the stage version includes all of the wonderful songs from the film, written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman.  We are transported to a lovely French provincial town where the beautiful Belle lives with her father – an eccentric inventor.  When her father doesn’t return from a trip to the local fair, Belle rushes off to find him.  To her dismay, she discovers he is being held captive in an old castle by a horrible beast.  She trades her freedom for his and the “tale as old as time” begins….magical rose, dancing silverware and all!
 

Curtain Times:
Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday at 3:00 p.m.
 

Tickets: $6
(General seating for all performances. Special seating arrangements for group sales only.)
 

Box Office & Reservation Voicemail: 216-961-6391
(Reservations are accepted up to one hour before curtain time.)
 

Location:
Near West Theatre is housed in St. Patrick's Club Building, Bridge Ave. & W. 38th St.,
(on the 3rd floor which is not accessible to persons with disabilities.)
 

Invitation To Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, November 19
 

Dear Friends,  
     Interact Cleveland will be hosting its annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration at B'nai Jeshurun Congegation Monday night, November 19th at 7 p.m.
     The evening will feature participation by Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist and Bahai Clergy in an evening with Jewish music, Sitar music, a South African song, and readings and presentations on the themes of thanksgiving and of healing the world, with a focus on the humanitarian crisis in Darfur.
     On behalf of Interact, I urge your congregations to join with us, and hope you will do all you can to encourage participation.  Those who come will be rewarded by a wonderful evening of community and by the chance to share in an important cause.

Thanks!
Steve Weiss
Senior Rabbi
B'nai Jeshurun Congregation
www.bnaijeshurun.org
B'nai Jeshurun Congregation, 27501 Fairmount Blvd., Pepper Pike (corner of Fairmount & Brainard)
 

Thanksgiving Offering Supports Education
 

The Thanksgiving Special Offering benefits 14 colleges and universities and seven theological institutions that receive funding from the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). These institutions have pledged to serve and care for Disciples students and the church and to work in cooperation to produce leaders for the church.  (NOTE: Higher Education and Leadership Ministries, the church’s general unit that works in partnership with these schools to develop leaders for the church, receives a portion of the Easter Special Offering.  For more information, log onto www.helmdisciples. org or call 314-991-3000.)
 

Disciples 14 colleges and universities serve 23,000 students.  A wide variety of settings are available, from large universities in metropolitan settings to smaller colleges in rural communities.  Disciples-related colleges and universities take seriously their church-relatedness and are committed to strong, liberal arts, value-oriented, general education.  They emphasize spiritual faith and values, and work to prepare students for life and leadership.  Pastor Allen attended such a college, Phillips University (which has since closed).
 

Disciples-related theological education institutions are partners with the church in educating a ministry for the 21st century.  While related to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), they are, at the same time, globally and ecumenically connected.  Currently, seven theological institutions are affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and three others are associated with Disciples higher education.  Pastor Allen attended Brite Divinity School in Ft. Worth, Texas, one of the institutions receiving our Thanksgiving Offering.
 

This special offering will be received November 11 and 18.  Please use the special offering envelopes provided in your bulletin, or mark your check or offering envelope "Thanksgiving Special Offering."  Thank you for your gifts!

Divinity & Diversity
An Exploration of Christianity’s Encounter with World Religions
Advance Conference Winter Retreat ~ December 28-30
Camp Christian @ Magnetic Springs, Ohio

Advance Conference (for persons ages 19 – 29 & out of High School) is hosting a weekend retreat, December 28-30th into the world of diversity and our place in it.  What is diversity?  How can we actively seek out and embrace diversity?  Why is diversity so important?  To help us explore these questions and many more, we have invited Dr. Dale C. Allison to join us at Camp Christian in Magnetic Springs, Ohio.  Registration will start at 7:00 Friday night and the retreat will wrap up approximately at 11:00 Sunday morning.
 

Dr. Allison currently serves as the Errett M. Grable professor of New Testament exegesis and early Christianity at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  Some of his most recent books are The Luminous Dusk: Finding God in the Deep, Still Places and The Love There That’s Sleeping: The Art and Spirituality of George Harrison.  Although he is perhaps most renowned for his work on the Gospel of Matthew, he is also currently working on a full-length commentary on the Book of James.
 

For more information or to register on line please visit www.ccinoh.org.  You can also visit pages for Advance Conference on Myspace and Facebook where you can learn more about Advance Conference and your 2008 officers Dave Bernard, Felix Ortiz, and Debbie Saxe.  There are registration forms available in the church office.
 

Fees for two or more days are:   
     $60 for early registration (by November 1st)
    $70 for regular registration (November 2nd – December 21st)
    $80 for onsite/late registration (December 22nd – 30th)
* These fees include housing and meals as well as the retreat itself.  
 

A reduced fee of $35 is available for SATURDAY ONLY attendance.  Housing is not available under this rate.  Remember there are also scholarships available.  DON'T LET MONEY BE THE REASON YOU MISS OUT ON ADVANCE!!!
 

Accessibility Update:
 

The long-awaited elevator in the Community Building is now completed and in use!  As part of the Circle Project and the generosity of the family of Dr. Webb Chamberlain all five levels of our 91-year old Community Building and our entire 123-year old Sanctuary Building are finally fully accessible! 
 

Additionally, we have received approval from the Cleveland Landmarks Commission at their October 11 meeting to proceed with our ramp on the northwest side of the building (along the alleyway), to allow persons needing assistance to enter the church directly into the Narthex.  It is hoped that the ramp will be completed before winter.  It will be dedicated in memory of Jerry Benna, a longtime member of our congregation who was committed to making our buildings accessible.
 

A celebration is being planned to mark the faithful and persistent progress our congregation has made in being an Accessible Congregation.  Save the date of Sunday, December 9 for this exciting “Christmas Gift To Our Community.”

 

October 2007

OHIO REGIONAL WORK DAY
Sponsored by Ohio Disciples Outreach Committee

SATURDAY ~ October 20, 2007 ~ 9am - 4pm
Lunch and Snacks Provided

CLEVELAND CHRISTIAN HOME
11401 Lorain Avenue
Cleveland, Ohio 44111
216/416-4277
RSVP: Development Office 216/476-0333

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The Buckeye Disciple
Note: If you do not already receive your free copy of The Buckeye Disciple newsletter published by the Christian Church in Ohio (Disciples of Christ), please contact them at: 355 East Campus View Blvd, Suite 110, Columbus, OH 43235-5616; Phone: (614)433-0343 Email: ccio@ccinoh.org OR you can read it online at their website: www.ccinoh.org .

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COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS ON GLOBAL WARMING SET FOR OCTOBER

Disciples of Christ have been invited to participate in a nationwide discussion on the challenges and solutions associated with global warming in local communities during town hall meetings that will take place across the United States on Oct. 4. Local business, government, environmental and faith community leaders will talk about how to build local awareness on global warming and support for local action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The National Conversation on Climate Action is sponsored by the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives-Local Governments for Sustainability, the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, and the Association of Science-Technology Centers. To learn more about this historic effort, contact Meleah Houseknecht, project coordinator, at meleah.houseknecht@yale.edu  or 203-432-8823 or visit www.climateconversation.org.

 

September 2007

Sabbatical Plans Continue
“…but on the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a sabbath to the Lord.”  Leviticus 25:4
“And in the morning, a great while before day, he rose and went out to a lonely place, and there he prayed.” Mark 1:35

     Pastor Allen and the Elders of Franklin Circle Christian Church continue to plan for the pastor's sabbatical leave for next year.  The months set aside are April, May, and June of 2008.  Currently, a proposal has been submitted to the Clergy Renewal Program of the Lily Foundation and the results of that proposal will be announced in late September or early October.  Should the congregation receive that grant it would allow Pastor Allen to fully engage in his dream sabbatical.  Other grant sources are being explored as options.
     In any case, Pastor Allen's sabbatical will be focused on dynamic worship in diverse urban congregations.  He will visit five cities and participate in worship in congregations that are known for their vibrant worship and that fully embrace diversity, including race, economics, and orientation.  Interviews with pastors and staff in charge of worship will be included.
     In a parallel process, he will be taking photographs of the cities he visits in order to create a “digital library” of photos to be used in the future for projections in worship.  This “library” will be reproduced on CD's for clergy and lay worship leaders in Ohio, and elsewhere, to use.
     And, of course, there will be much time to relax and be renewed.  Each of the cities have been chosen because there are either close friends of Pastor Allen living there, or it is a city he has longed to visit.  They include: San Francisco, Chicago, New York, Washington, DC, and Toronto.
     Watch future Messenger newsletters for further information about the sabbatical.

COLLECTING THINGS:
**We ALWAYS need non-perishable foods for the Near West Food Center.  Our new member, Janelle Eccleston, has agreed to weekly take our food to the Center, but we need food to take!  Any good, sealed non-perishable canned, boxed, jarred, or bagged food can be brought by the church.  Each Sunday we dedicate them as offerings to God.

**The Christian Women's Fellowship is again collecting items for their Health Kits.  Items most needed are: toothpaste, shampoo (especially travel sizes), combs, hand towels, and emery boards.  See Jean Borrelli for more details.

**We are also collecting school supplies for our big Rally Day, Sunday, September 9 where children and youth in our congregation will be able to get supplies that they may not have had the resources to obtain.  If you would like to collect supplies needed for children at school, please bring them to the church office by Wednesday, September 5.  Thank you!

T-SHIRTS
-- Our congregation finally has t-shirts to celebrate who we are and get the word out about this great community of faith.  The shirts are teal blue (to match our sanctuary pew cushions and carpet).  In white ink, a round section is on front with our "Widening The Circle" motto and the church's address.  On back is a drawing of our church and the web site.  Sizes are: Youth Large, Adult Medium, Adult Large, Adult X-Large, Adult XX-Large, and Adult XXX-Large.  They are $5 apiece ($3 for youth) if you pick it up at church, OR $7 apiece ($5 youth) if we have to mail it.  To order yours (if you haven't already) please mail your check to us at Franklin Circle Christian Church, 1688 Fulton Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113.  Please give us your sizes and the address to which we should send it.


Ohio Disciples Men's
Fall Retreat
September 7 - 9, 2007
Camp Christian (near Delaware, Ohio)
"Transforming Men to Transform the World"
Rev. Dr. Alvin Jackson
Retreat Leader
Cost:
Entire Weekend: $100
Saturday Only: $45

OHIO WOMEN'S MINISTRIES FALL RETREAT
September 14, 15, 16, 2007
Camp Christian (near Delaware, Ohio)
"What is Stealing Your Joy?!"
KEYNOTER: REV. DR. ROBIN HEDGEMAN
Cost:
Entire weekend: $75.00
Saturday only: $45.00

-- For registration forms go to www.CCinOH.org or call the church office. --

RECONCILIATION SPECIAL OFFERING COMBINES WITH WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY IN 2008
     A resolution that combines the Reconciliation Special offering with World Communion Sunday starting in 2008, was adopted at last month's General Assembly. World Communion Sunday, which encourages Christian unity, offers congregations a distinctive opportunity to experience Holy Communion in the context of the global community of faith.
     The Reconciliation Special offering is used to help congregations, regions and general Church agencies fund pro-reconciliation/anti-racism initiatives. Both events are traditionally held on the first Sunday in October. The 2008 offering and observance will encourage congregations to give expression to Disciples' quest for Christian unity to seeking God's justice, especially in relation to addressing the sin of racism. To see the resolution, go to: www.disciples.org/ga/resolutions/0719/
     In 2007, the Reconciliation Special Offering will be received in congregations on Sept. 30 and Oct. 7. To read more about this year's offering go to: www.reconciliationmission.org


 

August 2007

August 1, 2007

Dear Members, Visitors, and Friends of FCCC,
 

Summer Greetings! This note may find you off enjoying vacation, or at home working hard in the summer heat. In any case, I pray you are finding moments of intentional Sabbath time for reflection, renewal, and just plain ol' rest! It reminds me of the opening words of Psalm 103…
“Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and do not forget all his benefits-
who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the Pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good as long as you live
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.”

May each of you be renewed through God's good grace this summer.

Now, I wanted also to update you on a few things:

AUGUST CALENDAR:
>>First and foremost, next week is Vacation Bible School and we will once again be taking a trip down the Nile! “Treasures Of The Nile” is our theme, and children ages 3 through 12 are invited to join us from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. each night next week, August 6 - 10. We'll explore the Joseph and Moses stories from the books of Genesis and Exodus. We will begin with a light meal, and there will be crafts, games, lessons, singing, drama, and lots of fun. All for no charge! Please let your neighbors and family members know about this great opportunity. For more information, go to our website: www.FranklinCircleChurch.org/Spiritual%20Growth.htm#SG%20Activities. Thanks to Michelle Brown, VBS Director, and ALL the volunteers who are working on this great ministry.

>>Next, we will once again be gathering out in God's natural sanctuary for worship, food, and fun. On Sunday, August 12 our annual “Outdoor Worship & Picnic” will take place at the Upper Pavilion at Edgewater State Park (near W. 100th & Lake). Starting at 10:00 a.m. (note the earlier time) worship will begin, followed by a picnic. Fried Chicken from our neighborhood Dave's Supermarket, as well as drinks, will be provided. Please bring any other dishes/fixings to complete the meal. The JAMers youth group will lead us in games afterwards. A special treat this year will be guest preacher, the Rev. Jim Schimmel preaching on Isaiah 52:13 - 53:3 with the intriguing title “The Lighthouse Leans.”

>>You are invited to our monthly Work Day on Sunday, August 18 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, lunch following. Many, many folks have been graciously volunteering their time and energy, and the building and grounds are looking really spectacular. Join us, if you can.


>>A couple of Leadership Events are also on the horizon. All Board members are urged to attend, but anyone is welcome. The first is new and is a special gift I am giving to the leaders of this church. On Thursday, August 23 at 7 p.m. we will gather in the Chapel for worship and praise God for the gift of leadership and asking God for the gifts of leadership we will need for the coming year. Then, on Saturday, August 25 we will meet for our annual Leadership Retreat, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, in the parlor.

>>Finally (whew, who knew August would be so busy?!), I am inviting folks to come hear about the exciting and renewing events/programs I've attended this summer on August 29 at 7:30 p.m. in the parlor. Come be refreshed with some ice tea or lemonade, and see slide shows from my “City Of God” urban ministry event in Washington, DC, from Adult Conference in Columbus, from the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Ft. Worth, Texas, and from Advance Conference at Camp Christian. I have been reenergized in some wonderful ways this summer, and really would like to share this with the congregation.

COLLECTING THINGS:
**We ALWAYS need non-perishable foods for the Near West Food Center. Our new member, Janelle Eccleston, has agreed to weekly take our food to the Center, but we need food to take! Any good, sealed non-perishable canned, boxed, jarred, or bagged food can be brought by the church. Each Sunday we dedicate them as offerings to God.

**The Christian Women's Fellowship is again collecting items for their Health Kits. Items most needed are: toothpaste, shampoo (especially travel sizes), combs, hand towels, and emery boards. See Jean Borrelli for more details.

**We are also collecting school supplies for our big Rally Day, Sunday, September 9 where children and youth in our congregation will be able to get supplies that they may not have had the resources to obtain. If you would like to collect supplies needed for children at school, please bring them to the church office by Wednesday, September 5. Thank you!

T-SHIRTS
-- Our congregation finally has t-shirts to celebrate who we are and get the word out about this great community of faith. The shirts are teal blue (to match our sanctuary pew cushions and carpet). In white ink, a round section is on front with our "Widening The Circle" motto and the church's address. On back is a drawing of our church and the web site. Sizes are: Youth Large, Adult Medium, Adult Large, Adult X-Large, Adult XX-Large, and Adult XXX-Large. They are $5 apiece ($3 for youth) if you pick it up at church, OR $7 apiece ($5 youth) if we have to mail it. To order yours (if you haven't already) please mail your check to us at Franklin Circle Christian Church, 1688 Fulton Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113. Please give us your sizes and the address to which we should send it.

Again, I pray you are having a blessed summer.
God's Grace Is Abundant,
Pastor Allen

P.S. Come by Open Air in Market Square this Saturday, August 4 between 9 and 3 and see our church's booth! We are finding new ways to get the word out about this exciting congregation!

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Outdoor Worship Service & Picnic ~ Sunday, August 12
    
Members, friends, and guests of our congregation are once again invited to join together for our annual Outdoor Worship Service and Picnic on Sunday, August 12, beginning at 10:00 a.m.  We will be in the shade of the Upper Pavilion in Edgewater Park (off of W. 100th St.).  This year both the Mission Council and the Worship Team are sponsoring the event. 

Our guest preacher for this festive day is the Rev. James Schimmel, a familiar face to those who attend the Adult Conference of the Christian Church in Ohio.  Jim has been pastor at many congregations around Ohio and currently is in-between serving congregations as Interim Pastor.  He will be joining Pastor Allen in worship leadership.

A potluck picnic will follow worship, with fried chicken from Dave's Supermarket and drinks being provided, and potluck for vegetables, salads, starches, and deserts.  Following the meal, the JAMmers Youth Group will lead games for those present (and willing!)  Feel free to bring your own board games or cards.

This is a perfect opportunity to invite family and friends who do not normally attend our church to worship and fellowship with us.  Please note the earlier time: 10 a.m.
 

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Two Leadership Opportunities In August

Two important leadership opportunities will be offered in the month of August: one familiar and one brand new. 

NEW! Leadership Worship Service: On Thursday, August 23 at 7:00 p.m. Pastor Allen will host all members of the Church Board, and any others who wish to join us, for a special service of worship celebrating the gifts of leadership God has given us and offering those gifts back to God in grateful praise.  It will be held in the Chapel/Media Center.

Leadership Retreat: Then on Saturday, August 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon all members of the Board are urged to attend our annual Leadership Retreat.  This will be an important time to get to know other Board members, get calendars coordinated for the year, receive necessary resources, and prepare ourselves for the exciting challenges of the year ahead.  The retreat will be held in the church's parlor.

Board members will receive more information in the mail about both of these events.

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Calling All Young Adults: Advance Conference Is Coming!
 

“Lights, Camera, Action” Now it’s time for ACTION!!

“A guide for the 20-something church to take action in their lives and the world.”

August 12 – 19 @ Camp Christian

For all young adults in the Christian Church in Ohio and their friends! Come for a time of worship and fun, spiritual retreat and developing/deepening relationships with other young adults!

What if I can’t come the whole week??? While we hope you can be there the entire time, we understand that not everyone’s schedule will allow it, so you may attend as little or as much as you are able.

For more information and to get a registration form, see Pastor Allen, call the Church Office, or contact the Regional Church Office (614) 433-0343 or ccio@ccinoh.org  OR go to the Advance Conference MySpace Page www.myspace.com/advanceconference 

Advance Conference is for young adults age 18-29 and at least one year out of high school. It is sponsored by the Christian Church in Ohio.

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Mark Your Calendars For:

Vacation Bible School

Monday, August 6 -- Friday August 10

5:30 p.m. -- 8:30 p.m. (light supper included!)

For children ages 3 to 12 (no exceptions!)

~ FREE ~

For more information, contact Jean Borrelli at Jean.Borrelli@gmail.com

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Your Input Needed!
 

Recently the Board of our church offered there support for two longtime community programs which our congregation has offered, but not always fully supported. At the June 10th Board Meeting, it was decided that we would ask members of the congregation for your input as to how we might more fully support and deepen these vital programs which seek to meet fundamental needs in our neighborhood.
 

The After School Program meets Mondays and Wednesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. We offer open gym for basketball and a computer lab for homework and educational games. Michelle Brown is the Director, and Allen Brown is the Recreation Director. Ronda Wenzel has been the youth Assistant Director. This is funded entirely through the West Side Ecumenical Ministry.
 

The Thursday Meal Program, which was temporarily moved in March, will return to our building late summer following the completion of work on the wheelchair lift and kitchen painting/cleaning. Through the generosity of hundreds of volunteers, and staff and money from the West Side Ecumenical Ministry this program feeds 80-120 people every week a hot and nutritious meal.
How can we improve what we do to help make our youth and neighbors find what they need to flourish more fully? How can we improve our hospitality? What can we do to increase the "ownership" our congregation has for these programs? Please send your ideas, comments, and questions to either Pastor Allen at PastorAllen@FranklinCircleChurch.org or Al Betts, Chair of the Board, at albertbetts@peoplepc.com.

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New Member Stuff!

Check out the wonderfully inspirational blog by one of our newest members, Hannah Fritzman!  Click on her photo to the left, or go to: http://www.cleveland.com/weblogs/theview/

For more info on Hannah's work here in Cleveland, go to our Neighborhood page by clicking HERE!

New member, Michael Belsito, works for a wonderful Cleveland-based company called Findaway, makers of the incredible Playaway ready-to-go audio devices.  They play books and music,  Check it out by clicking on the logo to the left, or by going on the web to http://store.playawaydigital.com/!

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2007 Disciples Men’s Retreat
September 7-9, 2007 -- Camp Christian (near Delaware, Ohio)

Let me take this time to invite all the men of your congregation to the upcoming retreat for ALL disciples men here in Ohio.  It is my hope and prayer that each man in your congregation, from Advanced Conference age through the oldest of the congregation, come and be a part of an exciting time in the life of Christ and the Christian church. 

This year’s theme is, “Transforming Men to Transform the World” with our quest speaker Dr. Alvin Jackson.  Dr. Jackson has served many of our largest churches: Mississippi Blvd in Memphis, TN; National City Christian Church in Washington, DC; and is currently the pastor of Park Avenue Christian Church in New York City, NY.  He has also served as Moderator of the General Church.  Dr. Jackson is well known as one of our best speakers.

Registration materials are on-line (at http://www.ccinoh.org/ministries/disciplesmen.aspx) or are available in paper form from the office of each congregation in the region.  Our goal is to have at least 150 men in attendance for this special weekend.  It’s an opportunity for real men of Christ to actively lift up the name of Christ. 

Once again, each participant may choose to pay and attend the entire weekend or pay for a portion of this spectacular retreat.

Help us help each other!  We want to see every man at this year’s 2007 Disciples Men’s Retreat the first weekend in September.  What more beautiful a place than our own Camp Christian.

In Christ name,
Eric  Crenshaw
Ohio Disciples Men's President

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______________________________________

June 2007

Adult Conference June 18-22, 2007

Photo Gallery: Click HERE!

May 2007

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>>> OUR NEIGHBORHOOD:

World Fair Trade Day ~ May 12 @ Tri-C Metro Campus

May 12: Cleveland celebrates World Fair Trade Day, 11am-3pm at Tri-C Metro. World music, food and
dance set the back-drop for fair trade vendors, supporting safe work conditions and living wages for
cooperatives in the Global South.

For more info, go to: http://www.irtfcleveland.org/Fair%20Trade.htm

Historic Meal Program Moved From FCCC
Dear FCCC Members & Friends,
     I wanted to inform you that Judy Peters, Executive Director of the West Side Ecumenical Ministries and the other staff at the Near West Food & Family Services Center have decided to consolidate their meal programs into one site and end, after 30+ years, the serving of a meal at Franklin Circle Christian Church.  They have been making motions to do this for over a year now, and previously I was able to convince them to keep it here. 
     Even then, however, I recognized they had some sound reasons to consolidate, and I understand their decision completely.  I have copies available of the rationale they have for moving the Thursday meal from Franklin Circle Christian Church.  While understandable, perhaps, this change is nonetheless momentous for our congregation and our self-understanding as a church engaged in ministering to the needs of the neighborhood.
     Jerry Partyka, the Director of the Near West Food & Family Services Center, has made it clear that this decision in no way reflects on the relationship he nor the program has had with staff or membership here.  He was very complimentary of the relationship between the program and the church.  Jerry insists that the move is for purely practical reasons, making it a great deal easier to run the program for staff and volunteers, and better for the guests overall.
     Unfortunately, since the decision was made we have learned that there have been some complications due to miscommunication, and St. Patrick's Church has not agreed at this time to host the additional weekly meal.  We have been informed that sack dinners are being handed out on Thursdays at West Side UCC from 3-5 p.m.  While clearly this is a less-than-adequate solution, and things are still very much in limbo, I do believe that WSEM and St. Patrick's will be able to work things out so that our neighbors will best be served in the future.
     What this means for Franklin Circle Christian Church is that we have an opportunity to reimagine our mission to those most in need in our community.  While we are still being asked to cook and serve the fifth Thursday meals, Brenda Torrey, who has graciously been soliciting volunteers for "our Thursday" for the past few years, has decided not to continue now that the meal has been moved.  The officers of our congregation are eagerly interested in hearing your ideas as to how FCCC can serve our neighbors in need in new and even more effective ways.    
     Please contact Al Betts, chair of the Board, at albertbetts@peoplepc.com to share with him your thoughts and ideas for the future.
     Personally I ask for your prayers for this congregation as it seeks to do God's will in this day and in this place.

Faithfully Yours,
Pastor Allen


Walk/Run For Kids to benefit the Cleveland Christian Home
SATURDAY, APRIL 14th ~ Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Registration: 7:30-9:00am; 5K Run: 8:45am; 5K Walk: 9:15am
Walkers: completion of the 5K course is optional
Franklin Circle Christian Church WILL have a contingent.
Please contact Colleen Munley to register and for details at Colleen1234@talkamerica.net.
Call the church office if you would like a registration form sent to you.
Adult Registration Fee (14 and older) -- Runners: $20, Walkers: $15;
Children and Youth (3 - 13) -- Runners: $10, Walkers: $5;
Under 3 -- Free


Reminder: New Members/ Inquirers Classes Begins April 15

Following Easter Sunday, the regular “Inquirer's Class” at 9:30 a.m. Sunday Morning each week will be devoted to helping our new members, as well as those interested in knowing more about the church and membership, gain the knowledge they need to more fully participate in the life of Franklin Circle Christian Church. Please RSVP by calling/e-mailing Carole Sauer, church secretary: 216-781-8232 or CaroleSauer@sbcglobal.net.

Plan now to attend these classes on April 15, 22, and 29 and May 6, 13, 20, and 27 (up to Pentecost Sunday).  Using a variety of media (videos, guest speakers, articles, music, and even a game!) we will explore what it means to be a baptized Christian, a member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), as well as a member of Franklin Circle Christian Church. This class will meet in the Parlor.  Plan now to attend!


 

NCC AND PUBLISHER LAUNCH NEW ‘GO-ANYWHERE BIBLE’

The National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC) and HarperSanFrancisco has announced the publication of the “Go-Anywhere Bible.” The new collection of Bibles is published in a convenient size intended to make the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible more accessible to readers.

The "Go-Anywhere Bible" is now available in major book stores across the United States, including Borders and Barnes and Noble.  www.NRSV.net, a new online resource, has also been launched. The NRSV and Revised Standard Version (RSV) have incorporated much new scholarship acquired from the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in the 20th century. For information about how to get the new Bibles, see: www.ncccusa.org/news/070227NRSV.html

 

NEW CHURCH STARTS ON PACE TO REACH GOAL

The exciting pace of new church starts in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) continues. Thirty churches have been added since January of this year, bringing the total to 468 since 2001. Disciples new church starts have set an all time record for this decade. Twelve percent of all Disciples congregations have started since 2001.
 

The news suggests that the Christian Church (DOC) is well on the road to reaching its goal of 1,000 new churches by 2020. The number of new congregations underway is already approaching the half-way point of the 2020 goal. “As we tell pastors, the challenge is great and it takes an act of faith to start a new congregation,” said Rick Morse, Vice-President of New Church Ministry and Mission Initiatives. “However, we are excited that so many congregations are catching the vision and joining the New Church Ministry movement.” For more information about the growth of new churches see: www.disciples.org/dns/releases2007/07017.pdf


Christian Church In Ohio Specialty Camps
[Editor’s Note: Please contact the church office for a full listing of all summer camps and conferences.]
 

Bereavement Camp
This camp is for all youth K-12 who are experiencing issues of loss. Campers should be recommended by their pastors. This Camp will take place at Camp Christian from June 8-10, 2007. Register now and get the early bird rate of $90.00. Register online or registration forms will be out soon.

Grandparent Camp
This camp will be a special time for youth entering the 1st or 2nd grade and a grandparent. Youth may bring more than one Grandparent, however One Grandparent may only bring one child. This is due to one on one activities that are planned for this week. This camp will take place at Camp Christian from June 8-9, 2007. Register now and get the early bird rate of $90.00. Register online or registration forms will be out soon.

Backpack Camp
This camp is for all who are High School age or older. One of our Trail Leaders will be 81 so you are probably not too old. This trip will travel the southern most 40 miles of the Appalachian Trail in Virginia ending in
Damascus, VA. Much of the trail is in the Mr. Rogers National Recreation Area and in one of the most beautiful areas on the trail. This trip is limited to 20 campers in order to have minimal impact to the trail. Campers must be in good physical condition and prepared to walk about 10 miles per day with a pack. Lessons for the week will be from the Wilderness Journeys of the early Hebrews as recorded in Exodus. July 8 - 14 Register now and get the early bird rate of $205. Register Online or registration forms will be out soon.

Early Bird Rate for these and all summer camps/ conferences is May 1, 2007

Mission Council Supports Nursery Improvements
The Mission Council, at its March 4 meeting, received reports from previous Endeavors, put on hold several projects which needed more information, and gave blessings to several important ideas and proposals.

Evaluations were received from the Youth Sub Sale, the 165th Anniversary Celebration, the OCEA Conference, the Media Guide, and the Stand Up & Be Counted project.

The Endeavors receiving blessings included: Purchase of resources for New Member/Inquirer’s Class (received from Pastor Allen); purchase of new nursery furniture, including a “feeder table” and teacher’s chair (Christian Education Team); and providing honorariums for musicians for the Special Worship Service on March 16 (New Worship Initiatives Team).

Several Endeavors are “in the works,” but need just a little more information. They include: Repainting the kitchen (Christian Women’s Fellowship), the purchase, flying, and care of an American flag outside the church, and better use of a television donated to the church.

New forms and procedure checklists have been created and copied. You can pick up a lavender “Endeavor Form” now to bring your creative ideas for summer to life now!
 

March 2007

165th Anniversary Celebration

"An Old Fashioned Church Potluck" ~ Saturday, February 17, 2007

The tables were set with care and pride by our youth ~ A historical archives display in the parlor created by Joe Stanley

Many diverse people gathered for lots of GREAT food ~ Councilman Joe Santiago presented a proclamation by the city

The JAMmers Youth Group enjoys the food and fellowship ~ Pastor Allen offers a blessing on the Anniversary

To read the Prayer Of Blessing that Pastor Allen Offered, please click HERE!

Summer 2007 Camp & Conference Schedule
 

Each summer our region provides an extensive and excellent camp and conference program for people of almost all ages. Below you will see the basic details, but more complete information, along with registration forms, will be available at the church office soon. The Trustees have made a commitment to provide half of the registration fee for everyone from our congregation who wants to go to camp or conference. There is a camp scholarship fund, which our Youth Group is currently raising money to support, to help with the remaining costs for those who cannot afford it.
 

SPECIAL THANKS to the Jammers Youth Group for raising over $500 from their Sub Sandwich Sale on February 4th! All of the profits will go to the Camp Scholarship Fund!

June 17 – 23: Otter Partnership Camp (Elementary Children) at Templed Hills camp, (NOT AT CAMP CHRISTIAN)
For children completing the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.

June 17 – 23: Cuyahoga Chi Rho Camp (Junior High Youth) at Camp Christian.
Chi Rho Camp is for those youth who have just finished 6th, 7th, or 8th grade

June 18 – 22: Adult Conference (Adults 18 & up) at Northwest Christian Church Columbus, Ohio.
Theme: "We are One in the Spirit: Finding Unity in Diversity;” Bible Lecturer: Rev. Harrison Bolen; Vespers Speaker: Rev. James Schimmel.

June 24 – 30: Hiram Conference CYF Camp (High School Youth) at Camp Christian.
CYF Camp is for those high school youth who have just finished 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade.

August 12 – 19: Advance Conference (Young Adults 18-29) at Camp Christian. Pastor Allen is co-director of Advance Conference.

Sunday School Program Grows!
Our Sunday School program continues to grow and deepen. More children, youth, and adults are attending classes now than in several years. The Christian Education Team, under the leadership of Jean Borrelli and Ann Wolf, is in the process of expanding the children’s Sunday School program and will soon reconfigure classroom space in order to better serve our children. New ages/classrooms will be assigned in the future. As a reminder, here are the current classes, teachers, times, and locations for Sunday School:

Nursery (6 months – 6 years) led by Susan Raspe, following the children’s minute (~11:50 a.m.), Nursery room downstairs. Each week this class offers safe and caring attention to the youngest students, and simple lessons and crafts.

Pooh Bear’s Class (6 years to 10 years) led by Michelle Brown, following the children’s minute (~11:50 a.m.), Classroom downstairs. Currently the Pooh Bear’s Class is studying the Fruits of the Spirit (through the end of May), with memory verses and related activities. The last Sunday of each month includes some arithmetic skills-building, as requested by the children.

Jammer’s Class (Chi Rho – Middle School and CYF – High School Youth), led by Patty Groetsch & Jean Borrelli, following the children’s minute (~11:50 a.m.), Parlor downstairs. Currently the Jammers are using a resource called _____ to guide their weekly discussions. Plus, they have been busy planning all their marvelous service projects and sleep overs!

Adult Bible Study, (Adult/Young Adult), led by Ralph Eyring, 9:30 a.m., Friendship Room in the Chapel. The theme for this quarter is “Our Community Now and in God’s Future” and for March it is “Known by Our Love.” Each lesson attempts to interpret the meaning of God’s love and how it relates to our relationships with one another. The lessons explore love as a light in our dark world of evil and hate, our hope for experiencing love in its purest form, the source of the love we all need and long for, and ways of loving others as we ourselves would like to be loved.

Inquirer’s Class, (Adult/Young Adult) led by Pastor Allen, 9:30 a.m., Classroom in the chapel. Throughout Lent this class will look at “Questions Around The Cross,” exploring some of the questions that arose during the last few weeks of Christ’s life, and how those same questions arise in our hearts and minds today as we confront the issues of love, hate, hope, fear, repentance, and resurrection. This class will accent the sermon for each day.

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Mid-Week Bible Study To Delve Into Rich Topic Of Forgiveness
Beginning Wednesday, February 28 and continuing throughout Lent the Mid-Week Bible Study, meeting at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, will explore the intense and evocative topic of Forgiveness. Using the book “Eight Paths To Forgiveness” by Robert Brizee (Chalice Press, 1998) the group will learn new ways to understand how to forgive others and how to ask for forgiveness from others.

Drawing on forty years of experience as a counselor, United Methodist pastor and process theologian Robert Brizee offers a new concept of what forgiveness is and shows how to use that vision to forgive the seemingly unforgivable.

Mid-Week Bible Study is open to all, though it is encouraged that students be as consistent as possible, especially throughout themes since each week’s study builds upon the previous weeks. We meet in the classroom off the 2nd Floor Chapel.



 

February 2007

Franklin Circle Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 165th Anniversary Celebration
1842 ~ 2007
 

Franklin Circle Christian Church will host a 165th Anniversary Dinner on Saturday, February 17 at 5 p.m. All current and past members, staff, and friends are invited to "An Old Fashioned Church Potluck" with special guests: relatives of President James Garfield and representatives of Northeast Ohio Disciples churches founded and/or inspired by Franklin Circle Church. Visitors from our neighboring community are not only invited, but welcomed!
 

The main dish will be provided (fried chicken) and the congregation is asked to bring the remaining food items. It is suggested that persons with last names beginning with the following letters bring the following items: A - F Salads; G - L Vegetables; M - R Desserts; S - Z Drinks.
 

The following day, on Sunday, February 18, we will celebrate an Anniversary Worship Service starting at 10:30 a.m. The sermon, "What Good Is A Big Old Inner City Church Anyway?," will be offered by Pastor Allen V. Harris. Special music will be provided by Jim Robinson and Scott Posey. Please call the church office at 216-781-8232 for more information and to RSVP for the dinner.  Or e-mail our secretary, Carole Sauer at CaroleSauer@sbcglobal.net

Wednesday Bible Study Looks At Hot Issues & Forgiveness
 

Wednesday evening Bible Study, which gathers each week at 7 p.m. in a classroom off of the second floor chapel, is in the midst of looking at the Biblical foundations for trying to understand and respond faithfully to the provocative topics in the news. Rather than trying to give individuals answers, this study is seeking to nurture a deeper appreciation and more holistic response we can have to such subjects based on the rich and broad wisdom of the Bible. Everyone is welcome, no matter what level of education one has with scripture.
 

Bible Study will not meet on Wednesday, February 21 in order to allow folks to participate in the Ash Wednesday service at 7 p.m. that evening.
 

Then on Wednesday, February 28, and continuing through Lent, we will be studying in depth the theme of Forgiveness. Please join us for this important educational opportunity.
 

Band Concert February 24 at 7:30 p.m.

CLGACMB Honors Band Invitational Concert
Saturday February 24th @ 7:30 p.m.
Franklin Circle Christian Circle Church
1688 Fulton Road, Cleveland OH 44113
featuring musicians from all over the country

$5 suggested donation

Week Of Compassion: Helping Our Neighbors In Need

Dear Church Family:
 

What would you do if your neighbor’s home was completely destroyed? What if your neighbor became seriously ill and needed your help just to take care of life’s basic needs? You’d probably be right there, helping out in any way you could — giving your time, your energy and your money.

But what if the same things happened to someone across town? Or in the next state? Or in another country? Many of us have been wonderfully generous as we’ve responded to the crying needs splashed on our television sets after the tsunami in Asia, the earthquake in Pakistan/Kashmir, and the hurricanes on the Gulf Coast. We’ve added our contributions to the money that has flowed from the hearts and pocketbooks of people around the world.
 

Yet systemic “disasters” occur every day in the lives of millions of other people — extreme poverty and chronic hunger, terminally unclean water and nonexistent sanitation, terrorizing war and devastating loss. We see the images from time to time, and our hearts go out to those people. But that’s different, right? After all, we can’t be there for everyone.
 

Jesus might not agree. Jesus tells us that we are all neighbors and need to respond to each other’s needs.
 

Since 1946, the Week of Compassion offering has provided an opportunity for each of us to become participants in humanitarian work that expresses God’s love to our neighbors far and wide — not just to victims of the major disasters that saturate the media, but to victims of the disasters that repeat themselves each and every day.
 

In mid-February, our congregation will participate in the Week of Compassion special offering. We’ll offer activities to help us better understand the problems facing our neighbors in other countries, and we’ll present an opportunity for you to make a gift that reflects your desire to show the kindness, compassion and mercy to which Jesus calls us. If you won’t be in worship to give your offering, please consider mailing it to the church office so that your gift will be added to others.
 

When Jesus responded to the question, “Who is my neighbor?” he set a standard that wasn’t easy to meet. But, by participating in Week of Compassion, we can experience the joy of showing and sharing God’s love — offering a hand to that stranger in need and making a difference in the lives of our neighbors around the world. And in so doing, we are changed.

Sincerely,
Pastor Allen

Public Open House – Next Steps Cleveland Innerbelt Plan
 

Thursday, February 1, 2007, 4:30-8:30 p.m. with a presentation at 6:00 p.m.
Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation
2187 W. 14th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
Free parking in the church lot on Fairfeld Ave. For more information call 216-584-2007 or visit www.innerbelt.org .

Chi Rho (Middle School Youth) Event
1st Annual (?) Portahoga Toga Party
February 16-17, Friday 7 p.m. to Saturday, 9 a.m.
$5 per person, at First Christian Church of Alliance, 1141 W. Beech St., Alliance, OH 44601
Contact Jill A. Smith for more info or to RSVP: 330-823-6620 or jillasmith210@yahoo.com
We’ll start the event with comedian Will McDaniel. He’s a funny, funny guy who loves God. We’ll play volleyball, basketball, foosball, X-Box, and PlayStation. We’ll shoot some pool. We’ll have midnight communion service. We’ll eat pizza, watch movies, play board games and wrap it up with breakfast Saturday morning. Oh, I guess you can sleep if you really want to.

Come join us as we hang out, reminisce about camp, look forward to next year, and see friends both old and new!

(Disclaimer: if you really want to wear a toga, you must be fully clothed underneath it!)

 

CHECK OUT THE LIST OF SPEAKERS FOR GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2007
 

An impressive roster of church leaders, theologians and scholars will speak at this year’s General Assembly in Fort Worth, Texas from Saturday, July 21 through Wednesday, July 25. Jim Wallis, editor-in-chief of Sojourners Magazine, will be one of the evening keynote speakers. Wallis is a well-known author, activist and international commentator on ethics and public life. Other evening speakers include Daisy Machado of Lexington Theological Seminary, General Minister and President Sharon E. Watkins, Moderator William Lee, as well as three women of faith from Boston, Mass., who will share their unique perspectives on “true community.”

You also will not want to miss Stacy Spencer of New Direction Christian Church (DOC) in Memphis, Tenn., who will lead the Sunday morning youth worship service at the Fort Worth Convention Center as well as three outstanding speakers will who lead our church through discussions on church transformation. To read the full list of speakers go to: www.disciples.org/ga/speakers . To learn about other activities at General Assembly ’07, to register and to learn more about the Assembly theme, “Share the Feast,” visit: www.disciples.org/ga.

Welcome InterAct To Our Facilities!

In early January we welcomed to our facilities the InterReligious Partners in Action of Greater Cleveland, or InterAct for short. They will be sharing our space on the third floor of the Community Building (balcony level) in an area last used by the Covenant Program who left about four years ago when they moved into the remodeled McGuffey School.

InterAct Cleveland is a coalition of more than sixty-five Baha'i, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, Jewish, Sikh and Unitarian Universalist congregations, faith communities, campus groups, and community organizations, including Franklin Circle Christian Church.
The mission of InterReligious Partners in Action of Greater Cleveland, is: To be a catalyst for creating an interreligious community through which members put faith into action working for social justice through dialogue, service and advocacy.

Their programs include: Community Food Pantry (located at 8520 Carnegie Ave.), Advocacy Initiatives, Interreligious Worship Services, Dialogues For Religious Leaders, Homeless Stand Down, Meals Program (located elsewhere), Partners in Action Mentoring, Interreligious Workshop Series, and Just Neighbors.

Jean Ohlenbusch is Executive Director of InterAct Cleveland. The other staff person you will see regularly is Sarah Sommers, Membership/Volunteer Coordinator. Other Staff, who work out of the Hunger Center office, are Willie Howard, Mary Tinker, and Barbara Williams. Pastor Allen is former President of the Board of InterAct, and it is a special delight for him to have InterAct's Offices in our facilities.

Disciples District 2 Men’s Meeting – Sunday, March 4 at 3:00 p.m.
Broadway Christian Church, 5920 Engel Ave., Cleveland, OH 44127
Tickets for dinner: $6. Please RSVP by calling the church at 216-271-5143
 

January 2007

Memorial Vigil Honors Homeless
 

[This story is from the Cleveland Plain Press at http://www.nhlink.net/plainpress/html/stories/2007-01/memorialvigilhomeless.htm ]

On Thursday, December 21st, over 100 Clevelanders joined people throughout the United States in observing 20th Annual Homeless Memorial Day, to offer a vigil in memory of those who have suffered and died as a result of homelessness in the past year. This year’s Candlelight Vigil was held at Franklin Circle Church 1688 Fulton Road. Franklin Circle Church (Disciples of Christ) joined with the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH) in sponsoring the event.

Mayor Frank Jackson, the first Cleveland Mayor to speak at the vigil in its 20-year history, pledged more cooperation from the city on issues facing the homeless.

An inter-religious ceremony, which included Christian, Jewish and Muslim clerics, followed the mayor’s speech. The names of all those who passed away while homeless this past year were read and candles lit in their honor.

Brian Davis, Executive Director of the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless, petitioned Clevelanders to keep homelessness at the front of the city’s agenda for 2007 and to remember that homelessness is a health care issue, and studies show periods of homelessness do shorten a person's life.

“NEOCH,” said Davis, “has a full agenda for 2007 including work on temporary labor, highlighting family homelessness, pushing for a 24 hour drop in center, expanding voice mail statewide, constructing a self help legal center, and expanding the hate crimes law to include homeless people.”

Davis asked for the community’s help in supporting NEOCH as members, volunteers and supporters at events. He noted the annual Homeless Stand Down is scheduled for February. Davis described the Homeless Stand Down as ”a winter festival of respite, re-supply, and reconnection for the homeless in Cleveland. Over the course of four days we provide hot meals, haircuts, massages, access to health and social service providers, free winter outerwear, toiletries and much more.”

The dates for the Homeless Stand Down are: Saturday, Feb. 10 (at Pilgrim Congregational Church) Friday, Feb. 16 (at the Cleveland Convention Center), Sunday, Feb. 18 (at Trinity Cathedral) and Monday, Feb. 19 (at First Church Cleveland UMC).

Donations needed for the Homeless Stand Down include 700 sets of new men’s winter clothing. This should include: men's winter coats, men's boots, men's underwear, men's socks, men's winter gloves, hats, and scarves. In addition new or used totes or backpacks are needed, as well as, 700 men's personal care kits, and 2400 bag lunches.

A number of volunteers are needed to help with the Homeless Stand Down. Four hundred event volunteers, 100 office and sorting volunteers, 50 haircutters, 10 physicians, and 50 massage therapists or Reiki practitioners. For further information on how you and/or you congregation can become involved, please contact Sarah of InterACT at 216.271.0230 or sommers@interactcleveland.org.

For additional information contact NEOCH at 423-0540, or visit the NEOCH website at www.neoch.org.

Neighborhood Family Service Center moves to new location

(from the Plain Press) The Cuyahoga County Department of Human Services will close its Ohio City Neighborhood Family Service Center at the United Building at 2012 W. 25th (corner of W.25th and Lorain) on Friday, January 19th, 2007.

Beginning the following Monday, January 22, 2007, the new Old Brooklyn Neighborhood Family Service Center will begin providing services at 4261 Fulton Parkway (the corner of Fulton Parkway and Memphis).

The Cuyahoga County Department of Human Services has also finished the rehabilitation of the Westshore Neighborhood Family Service Center at W. 98th and Lorain Avenue. That facility has reopened for services.

Copyright 2008 -- The Rev. Allen V. Harris

Franklin Circle Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

1688 Fulton Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113-3096