Month: May 2022

• With the arrival of the new church van, the Building & Grounds committee updated Derry’s Policy on the Use of Vehicles. Anyone wishing to be an approved driver of the van will need to receive training on the van’s instrumentation, complete an application which gives the church permission to receive a copy of the driver’s motor vehicle record, and submit a copy of the driver’s license. All arrangements for use of the van must be set up through the church secretary.
• Over the past year the children’s music program has been building as a result of the Tuesday evening K.I.C. Club and the children’s Sunday School group. We want to encourage the continued growth of children’s music – both vocally and with instruments. To that end, the session approved the creation of a part-time Children’s Music Director who will work on Tuesday evenings to lead multiple ensembles of different ages, coordinate any volunteer directors, and lead children’s music on Sunday (approximately 7 hours/week). Claire Folts, who has her master’s degree in music education and experience working with elementary aged children, was hired to fill this position.
• As part of the 300th Anniversary celebration, the travel group is planning a trip to Ireland in 2024. The session approved inviting Pastor Marie Buffaloe, whose two-year period of separation after her retirement will be finished. The church will cover the cost of her trip as a thank you for all of her service.
• It was the joy of the Session to meet with the seven confirmation participants and six new members and receive all for membership at Derry.

7 PM TUESDAYS: JUNE 28 • JULY 26 • AUG 23 ON THE FRONT LAWN

Outdoor worship services under the oaks at Derry Church will return once a month throughout the summer. Bring your own lawn chair and dress comfortably. On Aug 23, we’ll celebrate our covenant with animals with a service that includes a hands-on blessing of pets.  

Kits to sew hygiene bags for the domestic violence center in Harrisburg are available in the PW basket in the mission closet. When you take a kit, please sign the paper on the clipboard. Instructions are included and all bags should be completed and returned by Sunday, June 19.

Cash Flow – Operating Fund as of 4/30/22

Note from the treasurer:

• Contributions are ahead of budget by $100k and $31k ahead of prior year.
• Expenses are less than 2021, but the $28k per capita has not yet been paid.
• Positive change in net assets of $149k compared with $93k in 2021.

ISSUES CLASS: “READING THE BIBLE FOR THE SAKE OF THE PLANET” • 9-10 AM IN ROOM 7 & STREAMING ON DERRYPRES.ORG, YOUTUBE AND FACEBOOK • LED BY JULIA O’BRIEN FROM LANCASTER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY • WEEK 2 OF 2 

What does it mean to read the Bible in the context of the environmental crisis of our time? While earlier generations of concerned Christians could imagine themselves as caretakers or stewards of creation, we recognize that we now live on a planet that has already been changed by human actions. In these sessions, we’ll talk about the limitations of earlier ways of interpreting the Bible for the environment and experiment with some new ways of reading biblical texts for the sake of the planet. Watch Week 1

BIBLE STUDY • 9-10 AM IN ROOM 2 • LED BY REV IVO MEILANDS

In John 10 we are introduced to two of the Lord’s “I am” declarations. Jesus first declares himself to be the “gate” to the sheepfold of his flock, his followers, and then as their “good shepherd.” The relationship between a shepherd and his sheep was a commonly used metaphor in Bible times. In the Old Testament, prominent God-fearing individuals like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and David are referred to as the shepherds of God’s people. And the total dependence of the sheep upon their shepherd is beautifully portrayed in Psalm 23. But perhaps most importantly, the essential need of all lost sheep for a Shepherd-Redeemer is clearly stated in Isaiah 53:6, a prediction fulfilled with the coming of Christ.

In the New Testament, Jesus is presented as the Good Shepherd who sacrifices himself to save his sheep (John 10:11, 14-15, 17-18). All are invited to Adult Bible Study. Come and see how the “I am” declarations of Jesus pertain to our lives today.

There will be no classes for children or adults on Sunday, May 29

2-4 PM MONDAYS, JUNE 27-SEPT 19 IN ROOM 7 

GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who walk alongside people through one of life’s most difficult experiences, offering support to those who are dealing with the loss of a loved ones from death.

Each GriefShare session is organized in two parts. During the first 30-40 minutes of the meeting, the group views a video seminar featuring top experts on grief and recovery subjects. These videos are produced in an interesting-to-watch television magazine format featuring expert interviews, real-life case studies, dramatic reenactments and on-location video. Following the video, participants spend time discussing what was presented on that week’s video seminar and what is going on in each other’s lives.

Those interested may begin attending the GriefShare group at any time. Each session is self-contained, and any missed weeks can be joined when the next 13-week cycle is offered.

Face masks are optional. Register by contacting the church office (717-533-9667). No cost to attend. Child care is not available.

This year the Birthday Offering of Presbyterian Women celebrates the century mark of generous giving. In this centenary year, two projects are being funded. The first is Mission at the Eastward (MATE) McCleary House Transitional Housing in Farmington, Maine. The second project in Puerto Rico will update a facility to provide food, purified water and personal items to a community. These projects continue the history of service begun 100 years ago.

This offering will be collected through May 25. Give as you have been blessed, generously and as led by the Holy Spirit. Contributions can be made online or place checks in the wooden boxes at church or mail them to the church office.

8 AM SAT JULY 2 AT SPRING CREEK CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN, 335 E AREBA AVE, HERSHEY

Start off your 4th of July weekend with an energetic run or healthy walk all while helping your neighbors in need. Choose from 5K or 1-mile fun run. $100 cash prize for top male and female 5K runners. Register by June 13 to receive a FREE race shirt! Not a runner or walker?  Join the fun by helping check-in, hydrate or fuel-up the entrants with refreshments. Read more & register.

Our mission partner Christian Churches United is hiring!  

• Full-time Director of Finance
• Full-time Homeless Prevention Case Manager (HELP Ministries)
• Part-time Supportive Services Assistant (Susquehanna Harbor Safe Haven: 16 – 24 hrs/ week, second shift including two weekends a month)

Click for more information.Contact Laura Dalton (717-230-9550) if you have further questions. Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.

Wednesday, May 25 is Orange Day, when Presbyterian Women encourages others to recognize the exploitation of females by wearing orange or an orange ribbon. Rape has been a tool of conquest for centuries as a way for men to express power of mastery over others. Russian soldiers have raped dozens of women in Kyiv and some did not survive. UN’s International Criminal Tribunal has prosecuted conflict-related sexual violence crimes in the past and has fast-tracked an investigation into possible similar war crimes in Ukraine. Wear orange on the 25th to show support for those attempting to end the exploitation and help the victims.

On the next two Sundays (May 15 & 22), check out the art exhibit in the Narthex showcasing the spiritual creations of children in grades 1-5: M.E. Steelman shares more in this week’s long read.

ISSUES CLASS: “READING THE BIBLE FOR THE SAKE OF THE PLANET” • ROOM 7 & STREAMING ON DERRYPRES.ORG, YOUTUBE AND FACEBOOK • LED BY JULIA O’BRIEN FROM LANCASTER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY • WEEK 1 OF 2

What does it mean to read the Bible in the context of the environmental crisis of our time? While earlier generations of concerned Christians could imagine themselves as caretakers or stewards of creation, we recognize that we now live on a planet that has already been changed by human actions. In these sessions, we’ll talk about the limitations of earlier ways of interpreting the Bible for the environment and experiment with some new ways of reading biblical texts for the sake of the planet.

BIBLE STUDY • ROOM 2 • LED BY REV IVO MEILANDS

8:45 & 11:45 AM IN THE CHAPEL • LED BY PASTOR STEPHEN

We interrupt the regular 11-Minute Lesson series to discuss what the Bible does and does not say about topics related to what we term abortion. Many people have been asking these questions or assuming the Bible is completely silent on the topic. The Bible simultaneously says more than people think in relation to abortion and less than people often want on either side of this issue.

This will not be a political or judicial discussion. If people want to have a time to model faithful discussion on difficult topics that can be arranged, but this is not that time. This class will solely be a Bible study examining what the texts say and how the texts have been understood by Jews and Christians through the centuries. Often the same texts are held up by both sides of the debate by using different interpretations. If you would like to know more, you’re invited to join Pastor Stephen in the Chapel following both worship services. Note that 11 Minute Lessons may last longer than 11 minutes this week.

Love INC of Greater Hershey has  received a request to help move furniture on Saturday, May 21 from Hummelstown to a storage unit in Hershey. The request is for two or three volunteers to move a  loveseat, small hutch, full-size mattress and box spring, small curio cabinet and a five-foot pantry. If the volunteers would have a truck that is a plus but not required. The lady’s son will be there to help with his truck. Contact Dale Forshey to volunteer (717-835-0101).

This year the Birthday Offering of Presbyterian Women celebrates the century mark of generous giving. In this centenary year, two projects are being funded. The first is Mission at the Eastward (MATE) McCleary House Transitional Housing in Farmington, Maine, and the second is Iglesia Presbiteriana de Lares in Puerto Rico.

Following Hurricane Maria in 2017 and the January 2020 earthquakes in Puerto Rico, the Presbyterian Church in Lares has become the go-to location in the community for food, purified water and personal items. With much of the population elderly and infirm, they rely on the church for help with necessities. Because the church’s kitchen is small, dated and not code compliant, upgrades are needed to continue providing this ministry. With funding from the Birthday Offering all appliances, wiring, lighting and plumbing will be replaced and the facility will be made ADA accessible. Solar panels and a heavy-duty generator will be installed to provide uninterrupted electrical service and water availability. 

This offering will be collected through May 25. Give as you have been blessed, generously and as led by the Holy Spirit. Contributions can be made online or place checks in the wooden boxes at church or mail them to the church office.

• The Session participated in an exit interview with members of the Carlisle Presbytery following Pastor Marie’s retirement. The Presbytery regularly conducts these interviews following the departure of a pastor, which presents an opportunity to reflect on the ministry the pastor and congregation had together, its strengths and weaknesses.  
• Use of the church building was approved for: a summer brass recital featuring Air National Guardsman, Tom Mahovsky on May 21 at 7 pm; an Eagle Scout Ceremony on June 6; the marriage of Matt Smoluk and Taylor Ross on October 8, 2022; and the Susquehanna Chorale’s 2023 spring concert.
• The baptism of Lydia Webber, daughter of Richard and Corinna Webber was approved for July 10, 2022. 
• Approved hiring Kathy Yingst as church Administrative Assistant.
• The Treasurer reported that contributions continue to be ahead of budget expectations. Expenses are slightly above spending in 2021, driven mostly by an increase in mission support.
• With the impact of Covid remaining low, there was no change in Derry’s policy.
• Approved the request from the Building & Grounds Committee to repair and restore all remaining stained glass windows in need and to protect seven basement windows along the back of the church with safety glass. The approximate cost for the project is $40,230 with funding coming from Derry’s Stained Glass Window Restricted Fund. 
• With the arrival of the new church van, the Building & Grounds Committee will be reviewing Derry’s van usage policy and making recommendations for its revision and implementation.
• There will be a Called Session meeting on May 22 to receive new members and Derry youth who are enrolled in the current Confirmation Class.   
• Approved a request from Derry Discovery Days to hire Jennifer Harman and Vickie Bender.

11:30 AM SUNDAY, JUNE 5 • RSVP BY MAY 31

Get ready for food, fun and fellowship as the children’s ministry team hosts this year’s church picnic! On the menu: pulled pork, hot dogs, cookies, cole slaw, veggie tray, watermelon, chips and beverages (vegetarian option available on request). Cost is $8 per person, free for ages six & under. RSVP and pay online or on Sunday morning in the Narthex. 

BIBLE STUDY: THE ROAD TO EMMAUS – LISTENING TO THE MARGINS • ROOM 2 • LED BY MEARA KWEE

In Luke 24:13-35, we read about two people walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus who reflect on Jesus’ death and who are disappointed that Israel has not been redeemed as they had hoped. A stranger joins them who begins to interpret the scriptures and explain to them how Jesus has indeed redeemed Israel. But it is only in an act of hospitality that their eyes are opened to the identity of the stranger. Why do they only recognize Jesus when they invite him to stay with them and share a meal? After Jesus’ resurrection, why does he appear to these two people on the road to Emmaus before he appears to the disciples in his inner circle? What can we learn from this story about listening to those from the margins?

ISSUES CLASS: TAKE A TRIP WITH DERRY TO SARGODHA, PAKISTAN • ROOM 7 & STREAMING ON DERRYPRES.ORG, YOUTUBE AND FACEBOOK • LED BY DEBBIE HOUGH

If you have never been to Pakistan, come along with Derry members to visit the city of Sargodha. Once there, we will check on the building progress of the Boys’ School and all the ways that Derry Church is making a difference in support of the work of Veda Javaid Gill and the Presbyterian Education Board.

Derry will celebrate its 300th anniversary in 2024. A committee is being formed to plan for this historic event. Those interested are invited to a meeting at 5 pm Tuesday, May 17 in the Lounge. If you would like to be part of the planning but cannot attend, please contact Pam Whitenack.

Derry Discovery Days Preschool is hiring teacher aides for the 2022-23 school year!

• Great schedule (approx .15 hours a week) with holiday breaks and summers off
• Discounted DDD tuition and first chance to register your child
• Continuing education and training provided
• Pediatric CPR and pediatric first aid training provided
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• A chance to make a difference in a young child’s early education journey
• Best of all….lots of laughs and hugs from sweet children!

Email Laura Cox, preschool director, or call her at 717-533-9667 ext. 201.

This year the Birthday Offering of Presbyterian Women celebrates the century mark of generous giving. In this centenary year, two projects are being funded. The first is Mission at the Eastward (MATE) McCleary House Transitional Housing in Farmington, Maine. The Birthday Offering grant will help renovate McCleary House for people experiencing homelessness.

Poverty has been increasing in Maine, with a growing number of vulnerable people losing their homes due to job loss, eviction, sickness or economic hardship – all complicated in the last years by the pandemic. This transitional home will provide a warm and healthy place to live for 3-4 families or 6-8 individuals over the course of a year, as most guests stay just a few months. The renovated home will provide a safe place for individuals to begin the psycho-social, educational and vocational work needed to move forward with their lives.

This offering will be collected through May 25. Give as you have been blessed, generously and as led by the Holy Spirit. Contributions can be made online or place checks in the wooden boxes at church or mail them to the church office.