Reaching Heights November 2024
Reaching Heights November 2024
Links to this month’s news:
- Worship Themes for November
- Kate’s Cogitations
- Administration Team
- Education Ministry
- Mission Ministry
- Election Day Prayer Vigils online
- Wednesdays Together with Plymouth
- Book Group and Meditative Arts Group
- Gift Cards
- Social Media
- Birthdays
See the Serving Schedule
HCC Worship Themes November 2024
November 3 All Saints Sunday Romans 8:18-27 “The Hope of Glory”
We will prayerfully remember by name all those who have died in the past year. This year we will also honor all of the beloved saints in our lives who have died, no matter how long ago their passing, by creating a remembrance table. Bring a photo, memento, candle, or personal item to add to the table on November 3 as you enter the worship service.
*Daylight Saving Time ends 11/3. Please set your clocks back one hour. *
November 10 Mark 12:38-44 “Blessed to Be a Blessing”
November 17 1 Samuel 2:1-10 “Hannah’s Song of Praise”
November 24 Matthew 6:25-33 “Do Not Worry About Your Life”
Kate’s Cogitations November 2024
Fall is my absolute favorite time of year. I like all the changes of seasons in Cleveland, and consider each one a chance to start fresh. But the weather is a great feature of autumn. Bright blue sky, abundant sunshine (even in Cleveland!), and the trees turning a lovely array of colors. Often while driving or walking in my neighborhood or a nearby park, the sight of the sun hitting a red/orange/yellow tree takes my breath away and moves me to exclaim out loud (something that often embarrassed my children when I was taking them to school).
All this reminds me of a fairly famous part of a longer poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning:
Earth is crammed with heaven, 
And every common bush afire with God;
But only he who sees
Takes off his shoes –
The rest sit around it and pluck blackberries.
For me, the trees in all their fall splendor remind me to give thanks in the middle of a busy season. Other times, it might be birdsong, or the friendly wave of a neighbor. In this season of change and beauty, what captures your attention and gratitude? What causes you to exclaim out loud in wonder at the universe, or take off your shoes in prayer?
in peace,
Kate
Administration
Traditionally, the Administration Ministry would conduct the Annual Stewardship Campaign for the coming calendar year in November. It has been decided, with the support of Dr. Kate and the Moderator, that HCC should conduct our next campaign in a new way and at a different time. We have selected a theme for the 2025 Campaign, “IMAGINE TOGETHER”. The Campaign will be conducted, after Advent and before Lent. It will likely take place over a four week period as opposed to the traditional three week period.
We ask, in prayerful consideration, that you will continue your 2024 pledge into the new year, at your current or an increased rate, before our Commitment Sunday in February, 2025. The spiritual practice of generosity arises from imagining all that God calls us to do as a community. As you begin to consider your pledge for 2025, “IMAGINE” , how it can be used to support the future ministries and missions of HCC. We thank you for your continued support.
Education
Sunday morning Adult Study continues 9:30 – 10:30 Chapel/Zoom Our study is based on the book, Paul the Progressive? The Compassionate Christian’s Guide to Reclaiming the Apostle As an Ally, by Eric C. Smith. It runs for 9 Sundays, at 9:30 a.m. in Herr Chapel and on zoom. It is not necessary to purchase the book as the leaders summarize it throughout the study.
November 3 – Paul the Debt and Guilt Monger
November 10 – Paul the Hijacker (A Conclusion)
Adult Study in Advent
December 1, 8, 15, &22
Sunday mornings 9:30 – 10:30 in Chapel and on Zoom
A Postcolonial Exploration Familiar Texts of the Season
On sabbatical this past summer, Dr. Kate had the opportunity to take a class from Dr. Eric C. Smith, a Disciples pastor and biblical scholar who teaches at Iliff School of Theology. The class focused on a postcolonial approach to scripture and for the final project, Dr. Kate developed a curriculum to study the scripture texts of advent using this lens.
Postcolonial study offers a critique of the cultural, political and economic colonialism and imperialism reflected in scripture and in much interpretation of scripture. It reminds us that the very folks who were the authors and subjects of much of scripture lived under the oppression of imperialism, and that much of that focus has been erased by the institutional church over the centuries.
Join us as we peel back the layers of translation, editing, and interpretation to imagine the first audiences of scripture and as we glean new meaning for us in our time and place now. No book to purchase, just bring a readiness to read and hear scripture in new ways.
Dec. 1 Luke 21:25-36 + Jeremiah 33:14-16
Dec. 8 Luke 1:68-79 + Malachi 3:1-4
Dec. 15 Luke 3:7-18 + Zephaniah 3:14-20
Dec. 22 Luke 1:36b-55
Apple Picking
It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon in October for the HCC annual apple picking outing. This year nine adults and three kids went to Patterson’s where the apples were abundant! In addition to picking apples for our own use, apples were picked to give to those in the congregation with health concerns or those who cannot easily get to church. Small bags of apples were delivered to twelve members of the congregation. Special thanks to the members of the Meditative Art group who designed the “apple” themed cards that accompanied the apples. Sharing some of the apples we gathered with others enabled us to reach out to those we do not often see and bring a little taste of autumn to them.
Christian Education
On Sunday, October 20, Dr. Kate presented Bibles to 10 children and youth. It was wonderful to have so many of them present to receive their Bibles. During the Intergenerational Moment Dr. Kate engaged the children and congregation in a discussion of the items that she had brought with her. A lamp, seeds, milk and a mirror were all used as metaphors for how the Bible can bring one closer to God. The Children’s Illustrated Bible was presented to the younger children, and one was sent to Bridget in the Netherlands. The youth received the Contemporary English Bible. Many thanks to Donita Singerman for her work in designing the name plates for the Bibles and for using her calligraphy skills to add all the names.
Calling all Kids!
There will be a special event for HCC kids and youth on November 17! Carolyn and Jefferson Troha will be hosting a board game time and pizza lunch immediately after worship. They will meet in the Parlor from 12-1:30 for lunch and fun! If you have a favorite game, bring it along.
Carolyn and Jefferson love to play board games, so they will bring some also! Families will be contacted for reservations, to check food allergies/pizza preferences, and answer any questions that may arise. Please mark your calendars now for Nov. 17! See you then!
Calling All Angels
Midweek Bible Study for Advent
What would you do if you were not afraid?
Life can be daunting, filled with uncertainty and fears. It wasn’t any different two thousand years ago when Jesus was born. An aged priest is told he is about to become a father for the first time. A young woman is told she is going to give birth – outside the protection of marriage. A simple carpenter is asked to believe the impossible. A group of shepherds’ night on a hill is interrupted by a bright host of angels in the sky.
Yet, each of these encounters begins with the same refrain: do not be afraid.
Those words, though, are not just words of comfort; they are an invitation and a calling from God. The Midweek Bible Study will explore this theme as we read together the study and devotional book, Calling All Angels. It asks us to contemplate what would change in our relationships, vocations, congregations, and communities if we have the courage to overcome our fears like Mary, Joseph, Zechariah, and the Shepherds in the story.
Our four-session study will begin Tuesday, November 26th and continue on December 3rd, 10th and 17th. Jane Troha will lead the study. Let her know if you would like to order a copy of the book ($11.00 per copy). We know our congregation is filled with angels, so plan to join us for this timely Advent study!
Missions Ministry
We are still collecting egg cartons. The total from the start of this program many years ago until October 13, 2024, is over 10,930. It looks probable that we will have collected and delivered well over 11,000 by the end of the year! While keeping track of the amount of egg cartons donated and delivered is fun, the real fun is seeing the gratitude of the farmers when they receive them! Not only do the farmers benefit from your generosity but think of all the egg cartons which have not been disposed of in the landfill. (And you don’t have to throw them out in your weekly garbage collection!) A fun fact: each carton which houses a dozen eggs represents an average of two chicken work weeks!
We are also collecting clothes for Lomond School. We have been asked to collect socks, gloves, scarves, hats, underwear and T-Shirts (sizes 6-8 and 10-12) for Lomond children (grades Kindergarten through fifth grade). Tissues (i.e., Kleenex, Puffs, etc.) are also needed for classroom use. The collection lasts through March. Some of the children at Lomond school are in lower income families and may need some help with these items. Also, children being children, sometimes accidents occur at school and spare clothing is needed. If we collect a significant number of items, we are considering expanding this to another grade school. We are off to a slow start now, but we still have several months to work on that!
Other news: Plymouth and Heights Christian Church are working together with a neighbor to rebuild and maintain the Little Free Pantry. The Little Free Pantry may be dismantled for a time until the new one can be installed. It is planned that an overflow bin will be outside under the covered area near the Little Free Pantry. If that is the case, you can put your donations in the overflow bin and people can also pick up what they need there. Remember that things which need to be refrigerated should not be donated. (For example, fresh produce, milk, fresh meat, etc.). Also, do not donate items in glass containers for safety reasons.
Lastly, we have been working on a request we received from a pastor in Namwala, Zambia. Some of you may be aware that this pastor, whom we know as Osward, has occasionally been joining us in services, study groups, and prayer meetings for quite a while now. Zambia, along with many other southern African countries has experienced a severe drought and crops have failed, and food is short. Osward asked us for some help to alleviate some of the misery his congregation is facing. We verified the need which has been widely reported in the news as well as by the United Nations, Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). We also verified Osward’s credentials and the need for corn for his congregation through his denomination. Our board voted to send $1,800, for corn. Osward asked for a large bag of corn for $12 for 150 families. Corn is the area’s staple food. It is estimated that a $12 bag of corn will feed a family of four for about a month. This means that our $1,800 donation could feed approximately 600 people for a month! Currently, we are exploring ways to transfer the money.
Election Day Prayer online Tuesday November 5th at Noon and 6 pm
In this time of anxiety and polarization, we invite you to participate in an Election Prayer Vigil. At Noon and 6 pm on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5), we will gather for a few moments of prayer for the country, elected officials, and the election. You are invited to join us on Zoom (details coming), look for a live feed on our HCC Facebook page, or pray when you can on your own.
We come together, asking God for courage and wisdom, thanking God for love and joy. As we move toward the election of leaders for the United States, may we all join in a season of prayer, committing to offer to God our fears and frustrations, our hopes and dreams. We invite you to pray for all our leaders and all matters being put to a vote, locally and nationally. Everyone is welcome to participate, so feel free to share with your friends and neighbors.
Wednesday’s Together
Plymouth Church, UCC and Heights Christian Church are both blessed to call our building at 2860 Coventry Road home. This coming year, both congregations are looking forward to growing friendships between our members, as well as discerning what ministry opportunities and events we can embark on together! One way we are seeking to expand our relationship is through sharing “Wednesdays Together.” Each Wednesday of the month (except at holiday time), we will share in fellowship and formation with one another. We look forward to seeing many folks from HCC and Plymouth at each gathering!
On First Wednesdays, join us for Book Group. Come and be in conversation around a different chosen book each month. You’re welcome even if you haven’t read the book to enjoy the discussion together.
On Second Wednesdays, join us for Meditative Arts Group. We will provide projects, or you can bring your own. Everyone is invited to color, doodle, draw, paint, knit, sew – whatev8er fits your interest and provides soothing quiet for you. We will gather with fellowship, then listen to calm, soothing music while we break out our pens, crayons, colored pencils, and knitting needles.
On Third Wednesdays, join us for Lunch Club. We gather for a homemade meal and fellowship, and then listen to a speaker from the community or one of our churches. We will occasionally take a field trip out to a destination in Northeast Ohio, so be on the lookout for where we will meet each month. There will be a suggested donation amount for lunch each month. RSVP to Pastor Dillon at dshipman@plymouthchurchucc.org, which is necessary for food preparation.
* * NEW **
On Fourth Wednesdays, join us for Mid-week Meditations in Herr Chapel.
The holiday season is upon us; (November 27 – the day before Thanksgiving
then December 25 – Christmas) therefore, we will come together again in January 2025. Enjoy your time with family and friends!
Book Group
The Book Group will meet in Room 102 at Plymouth Church on Wednesday the 6th. If you would like to have lunch before this meeting, bring your own and come at 12:30 pm. We will be discussing the book Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver. All are welcome to join in at any time.
Meditative Arts Group
Our Meditative Arts group will begin our monthly gatherings on Wednesday the 13th. we will meet at 1:00 pm in the Atrium at Plymouth Church as we enjoy some quiet music and meditative artwork.
Please join us to draw, knit, stitch or work on your choice of relaxing projects.
This Month’s Lunch Club
Wednesday, November 20 at 12:30pm
Lunch Club in Fellowship Hall.
Join us for lunch and fellowship, as well as a time of discussion as about health and wellness. We will hear about the expanding health and wellness programs of the YMCA, which in addition to physical fitness classes and activities, is now providing educational programs to promote healthier lifestyle decisions, offering a variety of wellness programs that support physical, intellectual, and spiritual strength.
Gift Cards
Remember gift cards are available on Sunday mornings and in the office every weekday during normal office hours.
Gift Cards for the Holidays in 2024
Christmas shopping has or will soon start. Retailers will advertise early sales in the hopes of earning your purchase dollars with good prices. But is that what your giftee wants?
Try gift cards! Gift Cards let you avoid the crowded stores and the post-season credit card bills. And your loved ones can spend the card(s) where you know they shop or eat. They are good in person and for internet buys. (I use them with Amazon and Panera’s all the time) Don’t know what store card to buy? Amazon and Target are easy choices. Grocery cards, like Heinen’s or Giant Eagle, can make the holidays brighter. Many restaurant cards, like Panera or Starbucks are available. And gas station and airline cards can help pay for family to join you for the holidays.
The earlier you shop for gift cards, the sooner you can sit back and relax. We have a Special-Order Form (available in the Chapel). Special orders will be accepted in two waves:
Order your special gift cards by Sunday November 17th for delivery after Thanksgiving.
Order your special gift cards by Sunday December 8th for delivery on December 15th or soon after (we will order these as a Rush shipment).
We can arrange delivery if needed. Don’t see what you want? Please ask – our vendor has Disney, airlines, restaurants, and other cards too numerous to mention.
Support Heights Christian Church while you shop. Get your shopping done early. And make your life less stressful. Gift cards are easy and appreciated. (Cash or check only, please)
Social Media outreach
HCC is on Facebook, Instagram, Linked-In, and You-Tube ! Our Sunday morning worship services are live-streamed on Zoom and FacebookLive. Several recordings of special worship services have been uploaded to our channel on You-Tube. If you see something you like, share it on your page! This will increase our reach and may draw in our next visitor!
November
6 – Mark Cubberley 13 – Joan Brown Campbell 13 – Ratt Woods
16 – Carl Cormany 21 – Dennis Mehring 26 – Yvonne Mullen
26 – Christopher Crosby, Jr. 28 – Irwin Shung 30 – Daphne Broun (Dunn)
December
3 – Andrena Jones-Sharp 7 – Val Sgro 10 – Bernadette LaGuardia
23 – Doug McWilliams 26 – Roger Osgood 27 – Aliyah Benson
29 – Lloyd Ackerman
We are glad to share the birthdays we have on record each month and encourage members to reach out with greetings. We apologize if someone’s name has been omitted – please call Kese in the church office to share your birthday if we don’t have it in our list. We want to celebrate you!