Reaching Heights October 2024
Reaching Heights October 2024
Links to this month’s news:
- Worship Themes for October
- Kate’s Cogitations
- From the Moderator
- Mission Ministry
- Book Group and Meditative Arts Group
- Gift Cards
- Social Media
- Birthdays
See the Serving Schedule
HCC Worship Themes October 2024
This month we will explore Jesus’ teachings about the “Upside-Down Kingdom.” These stories show the true nature of discipleship, based on a life contrary to the perspectives and priorities of the world, and instead more in line with the kin-dom of God.
October 6 Luke 19:1-10 “The Upside-Down Kingdom:
Where Everyone Belongs”
World Communion Sunday and Special Offering for Reconciliation Ministry
Hospitality Hour after worship; Apple Picking after Hospitality
October 13 Amos 5:6-7, 14-15 & Mark 10:28-31
“The Upside-Down Kingdom: Where the Last Are First”
October 20 Mark 10:35-45
“The Upside-Down Kingdom: Where the Least Are Greatest”
October 27 Mark 10:46-52
“The Upside-Down Kingdom: Where the Blind Can See”
Kate’s Cogitations October 2024
With the celebration of HCC’s 95th Anniversary and the start-up of a new program year, I have had the image of “Sankofa” on my mind. Sankofa is a concept from the Akan people of Ghana, which means to go back and take what you need in order to go forward. It is depicted by a bird with its head turned back, but its feet firmly planted facing forward. The idea is that knowledge of the past ensures a strong future.
As we look back with gratitude upon our congregation’s history, and look forward with hope for our future, this seems an apt symbol. Some of us respond to change with enthusiasm, others approach it with anxiety. Maybe you have felt both as you consider what God may be calling HCC into next. Change is inevitable. Some have called it the only constant. Even wanted change, positive change, can bring stress and a sense of loss.
Sankofa can inspire us to look back and bring what’s needed of our past, while keeping our feet moving forward into the next chapter. And we do none of this alone. We have the community for support and to help discern the next steps. And we have the presence and guidance of God in every step. Thanks be to God.
Looking Back with Gratitude – Looking Forward with Hope
Please Join Our 95th Anniversary Gift
In honor of the 95th Anniversary of Heights Christian Church, our forward-looking congregation will be collecting a free will offering in support of the Regional Church’s campaign “If Not Now, When? – If Not You, Who? We who have been blessed by our past wish to make a gift for the future. Individual contributions will be added to a significant donation authorized by the Board of Trustees on behalf of the congregation.
Our region’s major fundraising campaign promotes a bold vision of developing and building a new pool at Camp Christian, facility improvements at camp and the regional church office, a full-time conference center director for three years, multiple part time program positions within regional ministries, and mission projects that will benefit the Cleveland Christian Home, Hiram Farm, and the Disciples Overseas Ministries. For this vision to be successful congregations and individuals are being asked to contribute.
Supporting this campaign is a true reflection of our collective spirit and a reflection of the Body of Christ of which we are all members. As we look back in gratitude at our 95th anniversary, we also, even more importantly, also look forward with hope. Please consider donating to this worthwhile cause either at the Celebration event, online through our website where a Givefy link is located, or through the Offering Plate on Sundays. The offering will be collected through mid-October. Our congregation has sent many young people to Camp Christian and we rely on our Regional Ministry in ever so many ways. Let’s use this time of celebration to show our support for promoting this vision for the Region!
| Pastoral Letter In Support Of Our Haitian Friends & Neighbors |
| Our Regional Minister, the Rev. Allen V. Harris, was one of those who worked diligently on a statement of support for our Haitian immigrant, refugee, and asylum-seeking friends, family, and neighbors (along with several others who did the majority of the writing).
You can read the entire letter here: A Statement in Support of Immigrant Communities – Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) We are proud that Rev. Harris is one of the primary signers of the statement. While the Christian Church in Ohio does not have any specific congregations or leaders who are Haitian or of Haitian decent, that we know of at least, we live in the state that sadly was recently and repeatedly targeted by violent and racist language which has regrettably motivated hateful actions and has instilled fear and has undeniably harmed children, youth, and adults in Springfield. The Rev. Dr. William Barber, one of the leaders of the Repairers of the Breach, will be hosting a Prayer Service on Sunday, September 22 at 2 p.m. at Greater Grace Temple, 380 W. Leffel Ln., Springfield, Ohio 45506. Other faith leaders, including several of our own Disciples of Christ leaders, will be present and speaking. Because we do not have a Disciples of Christ presence in Springfield, we are advising individuals and congregations hold their donations until we find a local organization that we can be assured will use the funds to care for the Haitian Community of Springfield. Your prayers and your willingness to confront hateful rhetoric and misinformation about Haitian and other refugees, immigrants, and asylum-seekers would be most helpful at this time. We would also like to lift up the pro-active and positive work of The Ohio Immigrant Alliance which has launched #OneLoveOhio to spotlight the acts of kindness — large and small — that we see happening in our communities every day. Check out the site at oneloveohio.org and nominate positive stories of community-building here. At the new #OneLoveOhio site, you’ll find examples of pastors and other people of faith inviting people from all backgrounds to pray together, and reminding people who call themselves Christians what the gospel says about human dignity. Community members flocking to support Haitian-owned businesses. Check out chef Alain Lamaire’s wise words, and recipe for creole chicken with cashews as well as a viral video from a “Millenial Mom.” We will keep our members and leaders in the Christian Church in Ohio apprised of opportunities for donations and actions to support our Haitian friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors in Springfield and around Ohio. Faithfully Yours, Rev. Allen V. Harris |
Interfaith Group Against Hate
On August 27 Dr. Kate and four members of HCC attended the IGAH meeting held at Congregation Mishkan Or in Beachwoood. IGAH was founded by five congregations committed to combating hate in all of its forms. Heights Christian Church was invited to join the group last year. Many different faiths are working together here – Protestant, Catholic, Jewish and Muslim.
At this meeting, leaders of three faiths expressed what their faith taught about welcoming the stranger. It was powerful to experience the commonalities of
Protestant, Jewish and Muslim faiths proclaiming the imperative to care for one’s neighbor.
There are three committees within IGAH. The social committee is planning a series of informal dinners for members of the diverse congregations to get to know each other better. The Education committee reported 60 people attended the July event that they sponsored on Countering Hate through Education and Empowerment held at Olivet Baptist Church. They are continuing to look into local issues.
The research committee is examining the immigrant situation here in Cleveland. They have identified 20 organizations that work with refugees, and are in the process of interviewing each group to gather data on the immigrant situation locally.
Education
Calling all apple pickers!
At last, fall brings us cooler temperatures, apples, pumpkins and cider!
Come join us to go apple picking at Eddy’s Apple Farm on Sunday, Oct. 6. We will have lunch at church and then go out to Eddy’s. Please bring a bag lunch to church to enjoy during the hospitality hour after the service. After lunch we will leave for Eddy’s. Hopefully we will be blessed with beautiful fall weather and lots of apples!
This October, the Sunday morning Adult Study continues to focus on the writings of Paul. The 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. Meeting in person at 9:30 Sunday mornings in Herr Chapel, and on Zoom, the group engages in thoughtful discussion. It is not necessary to buy the book to participate in the study. Looking for something interesting and challenging? The study is open to all. Come and join us!
Can’t join us on Sunday mornings for Adult Study? Wonder what’s going on or wish you could follow along on your own time? We often have handouts that will give you a feel for the topic. When we do, extra copies will be kept in folders under the middle window on the east side of the chapel. You’re more than welcome to pick up a copy. Of course the handouts don’t contain any of our rich discussions. You’re always welcome to join us at 9:30 am in the chapel or online.
The Midweek Bible Study This study meets on Tuesdays at 2:00 via Zoom. If you have not been part of a Bible study before, you are invited to join in to try it out! Everyone’s views and opinions are always respected.
Topic: The Devil You Say concludes October 1 with “Satan: So What?”
Stay tuned for the next offering, beginning mid-October. All are welcome! Reach out if you need the link to join the Zoom group! Hoping to see you then!
Missions Ministry
Connee’s egg cartons collection remains in the same space and continues.
Voting Signs
Election season is upon us. HCC does not take public positions on candidates or issues. But we can encourage voter participation.
We have a supply of League of Women Voter informational signs for your yard.
The signs stress how and where to get voter information. They are not geared to any one election; you can put them up many times. The signs are yours for the taking if you will place them on your property.
Should you wish to make a $10 donation toward the cost, place an envelope in the plate or donate on Givelify in the Voter Sign envelope. Thanks for supporting and encouraging voter participation.
Wall of Love: Winter 2024 – Spring 2025
We are again collecting items for the “Wall of Love” at Lomond Elementary School. There are some changes this year.
- Although it has been called the Wall of Love in the past, because some students were embarrassed to be seen getting items off the “wall” the items are now available in an office in the elementary school for children who need them.
- Lomond Elementary School now houses students from grades Kindergarten through fifth grade since Woodbury School has closed. Therefore, items should be in sizes 6-8 and 10-12. We are no longer including items for children younger than kindergarten age, or for older children and adults.
- Although we are still collecting items which we collected in the past: hats, scarves, mittens/gloves, and socks, etc. there are some new additions. We will additionally collect underpants and T-shirts. Also, tissues are needed. Items should be new. It is no longer necessary to put items in zip-lock bags.
We are collecting these items from October, which is almost here, to March. Let’s show our grade school children that they matter to us. Imagine if a child is going to school and loses one mitten and wants to play in the snow outside at recess! Imagine if a child can’t attend school because their few pairs (or only pair) of underwear is in the laundry! Imagine if a child is upset and crying and the school can’t find some tissues to help. So, when you are out shopping think of our youngest neighbors and donate to the Wall of Love.
Donations to the Little Free Pantry are available for non-perishable food at any time. It is located just off the parking lot here at Heights Christian and Plymouth Church. Stats from Cleveland Food Bank: Do you know that 1 out of 5 children live in poverty. 1 in 7 people are food insecure while there is about 40% of food in U.S. is wasted. Our Little Free Pantry is used regularly and is in need of more contributions. Please remember: No glass containers.
Matthew 25 Statue Collection Tour
Members of Plymouth and HCC will be taking a tour of the six bronze statues from the Matthew 25 collection around Cleveland. Cleveland is only the second city in the world (besides Rome) to have the full collection. We will be touring on October 19, leaving church at 8:45 am. If you are interested, please sign up in the welcome center (just outside the church office) no later than Sunday, October 6.
Plymouth’s Blessing of the Animals
Bring your pet (or a picture of your pet) for a special blessing of the animals!
October 5 at 10:30 am
Join the global church in this annual liturgy highlighting creation and interdependence.
In Memoriam
Michael “Doc” Murray
News has reached us of the passing of Micael Murray this September at age 81. Doc was the organist at Heights Christian Church between 1967 and 1980 and served as its music director from 1970 to 1980. He was a kind and gentle man with an enormous talent. Following his years with us, he moved to Columbus, OH where he continued his career as an organist, author and teacher. Those of us who knew him and worked with him will remember him with great affection. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.
Lay Preaching Academy
For Non-Clergy Congregational Leaders who may be called to Preach.
October 12, 2024, 8:30am – 4pm
Gender Road Christian Church
5336 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
Purpose: To train a cadre of lay (non-clergy) preachers to fill pulpits in our Ohio churches either short term or long term. . You do not have to have attended session one or two to benefit from this workshop. Event sponsored by the Regional Elders.
Presenter – Regional Pastor and President, Rev. Allen V. Harris
The first topic for this sessions will be the use of multimedia in the sermon such as digital presentations (PowerPoint) and video. Our presenter will be our Regional Pastor and President, the Rev. Allen V. Harris.
Our second topic and practicum will focus on group sermon writing. Participants will be divided into small groups and given a scripture passage to develop a sermon from. Each group will have an opportunity to present the sermon after lunch and receive feedback.
Registration includes program as well as a pizza & salad lunch.
Register now through your Engage account, or at: https://wmt.suran.com/tool?guid=d37e677a753311ef9e1521389eccace2
Any questions, please contact The Rev. Dr. Brad Donahue @ revbjd@gmail.com.
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.” On the first three Wednesdays of each month, 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.
This simple service will center on prayer, study, song, meditation on scripture and devotions to take with you for the week ahead. Just bring an open heart to deepening your spiritual journey with God and your fellow pilgrims!
Book Group
The Book Group will meet in Room 102 at Plymouth Church. 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 The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store. All are welcome to join in at any time.
Meditative Arts Group
Our Meditative Arts group will begin our monthly gatherings on Wednesday, 9th. 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, October 16 at 12:30pm
Lunch Club in Fellowship Hall
Join us for a homemade lunch and fellowship. A bioethicist from the Center for Bioethics at Cleveland Clinic will speak to us about the new Ethics Consultation Service, which is a free service. The goal of the service is to help patients, families, and caregivers connected to the Clinic make good health care decisions when the answers aren’t clear. The suggested donation for lunch is $10. RSVP to Pastor Dillon at dshipman@plymouthchurchucc.org, which is necessary for food preparation. Reservations are due Sunday, October 13.
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 October 13th for delivery about October 23rd.
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!
October
1 – Lynda Ackerman 3 – Anita Watson 3 – Ann Weisheimer
4 – Debbie Osgood 5 – Linda Durham 18 – Jeff Fronck
18 – Amber Sharpley 19 – Florence Chase 30 – Tommy Dunn
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)
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!