News for June 2011
SUMMER SERVICES
We began our Summer Services, June 19 at 10AM, and plan to continue through September 4 at 10AM in our garden, weather permitting.
The Union Services and Holy Communion with the First Congregational Church are scheduled as follows: July 3, 10AM, United Methodist Church of Park Ridge. August 7, 10AM, First Congregational Church. September 4, 10AM, United Methodist Church of Park Ridge. Join us with the deer, the fox, squirrels, chipmunks and birds.
“Each little flower that opens, each little bird that sings, God made their glowing colors, and made their tiny wings. God gave us eyes to see them, and lips that we might tell how great is God Almighty, who has made all things well.”
Edited: June 30th, 2011
IN THE MEMORIAL GARDEN
After a long, rough winter it’s great to be able to finally get out and work in the garden.
It was surprizing to find that all the plants survived. There are one or two a little the worse for wear; but with some TLC they should be able to do well.
By early summer the garden should be in pretty good shape. Annuals and mulch have been added; weeds pulled; the grass is cut, trimmed and looking green.
And for all the animal lovers, there is no shortage of deer, rabbits, squirrels, and chipmunks. Larry Morgan came across a baby fawn that he was able to hold in his hands.
So as you can see there is much to enjoy in the garden!
We are looking forward to our Sunday services; and also please take some time to come reflect, relax and enjoy the garden on other days.
Anyone who wishes to make a donation, or supply a “shade-loving” plant, please inform a committee member.
Edited: June 30th, 2011
MUSIC SERVICE NOTES from Adrianna Coe
Lent began with a Joint Ash Wednesday Service in Hillsdale, a weekly Lenten Soup Supper/Study and Hymn Sing in our lounge leading to Palm/Passion Sunday, with Sunday School Children waving Palms and singing Hosannas. The Bell Choir provided music every Sunday in Lent. Maundy Thursday, we joined in a Dramatic Scene of the Lord’s Last Supper; Good Friday, we held a service of Readings and Hymns, and Special Guitar and Choir music.
Easter Sunday began with a Sunrise Service and a 10AM Service. We began with a dramatization of the women at the tomb, instrumental announcement of Christ’s Resurrection played by Brian Casas, the singing of “Morning Has Broken” by Donna Perdue and Grant Jardin, Guitar improvisation on an Easter Hymn by James Mesevage, Youth Choir directed by Rue Abdelhak.
Since Easter Sunday we have continued singing hymns of praise and Alleluias.
Pentecost Sunday, June 12 we will celebrate the coming down of the Holy Spirit in Tongues of Fire to renew the face of the Earth.
Edited: June 2nd, 2011
ODE TO MY FATHER
As I sit beside this stream
And watch the calming waters pass,
I’m paralyzed, in a surreal dream
Not knowing how long it will last.
As I look beyond this brook,
I hear the sounds of spring at last,
The birds that chirp and flowers bloom
I feel a presence that just looms.
As I watch the water flow,
Through the rock and moss below.
I feel a presence rushing by,
My sorrow flees and soon will die.
I hear a voice, vague, not sad
I see the path I walked as a lad,
I feel the sadness, but not mad
For I know the presence is my Dad.
by Don Lewis in memory of his father, Donald Lewis
Edited: June 2nd, 2011
CHURCH WIDE PICNIC
As has been our tradition for many years, Father’s Day, June 19, will be the date of the annual church picnic and cook-out. All those attending are asked to provide paper plates, utensils and drinks for their family and an item of food (salad, casserole, deviled eggs or dessert) to share. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be provided.
Edited: June 2nd, 2011
REMEMBERING “DOC” LEWIS (65 Years is Not a Long Time)
Most people would say 65 years is a long time, but when talking about a friendship, it is much too short. Donald (Doc) Lewis and I met in Park Ridge High School at the start of football practice in the fall of 1945. Shortly after that I talked him into coming to the church to join our youth group. He then brought some family members to church on Sundays. After high school we both joined the Marines during the Korean War and served in combat. We came home to discharge and used the G.I. Bill to go to college, came back to Park Ridge and the church and both got married. We each had four children; all brought up in the church and town and attended Park Ridge Schools. They went on to attend college, get married and have children.
All these years since high school Doc and I met on Sunday mornings in church. We talked about sports, our 8 kids, the church and our country. As Head Usher for over 45 years, Doc knew everyone who came to church more than once. Never forgetting a face or name, he was a friend to all who knew him. When he was called home to our Lord a few days after Easter, church members were deeply saddened. A lovely service was held in our church sanctuary following three hours of visiting in Fellowship Hall. The line to attend filled the sidewalk all three hours, and over 244 people attended the service. Some were turned away, due to a lack of seats. I had the privilege of speaking and spoke of the joy we all shared knowing Doc was now with our Lord. But, as I said, 65 years is such a short time.
Edited: June 1st, 2011
