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From the Pastor …

When the third service planning group met on January 18th, we had another in a long line of exciting, invigorating, and productive discussions. Lots of creative ideas flowed freely, and there was a great deal of unity in the decisions that were made. Much of what we talked about seemed to resonate with each member of the group in a similar manner, as more pieces of the third service “picture” fell into place.

Not that the work of the group has always been easy. We have struggled at times, as we have tried to discern a clearer vision. There have been things over which we initially disagreed, requiring that we really talk and pray our way through them to reach consensus.

At the conclusion of our meeting on the 18th I said to the group something along these lines: “I certainly hope the third service we are about to embark upon will serve the needs of people in our congregation and in the wider community. But I can honestly say that whatever happens going forward, this process we have been part of has been wonderful. I have really felt the presence of the Holy Spirit in our midst, as we have been working together in service to God.”

Ministry in any form, does not carry a guarantee. Whether it is third service planning, or youth, or outreach, or education, or fellowship -- we are always in the process of stepping out in faith. Making ourselves available to be used by God for the accomplishment of His purposes, whatever they may be.

Please consider, too, the possibility of attending on Saturdays for the first few weeks, in ADDITION to attending one of the Sunday morning services the same weekend. This would be a way of helping to get the new service “off the ground” so-to-speak.

And please do share with others (friends, family members, neighbors, co-workers), as the Spirit leads, an invitation to take part in this new worship opportunity. We would like to include as many people as possible, in these Saturday services of praising God and celebrating the good news of God’s saving grace in his Son Jesus Christ.

What DOES the Lord have in store for us as we move forward in this new ministry? We cannot answer that question just yet. But in faith and hope we are stepping forward nevertheless – believing that God has led us to this point, and with confidence that God will use our congregation in ALL that we do for His purposes.

In Christ,

Pastor Rich

ASSOCIATE IN MINISTRY REFLECTIONS

For some people, Lent is a dreaded time of year, a season of gloom and doom. “Giving up” something good can be seen as a deprivation or just another resolution that leads to failure. Church talk becomes sprinkled with words about confession and sin and dying. People walk around with dark ashes on their foreheads. The mood at worship is somber as the Alleluias are put away until the next season and the hymns sound more like dirges than praise songs. The cooling colors of blue and white and green turn to deep purple and then black. The season of Lent is often compared to the dreary days of winter in Maine, which seem to linger on forever.

I love Lent! There are many paradoxes about the Christian faith and this is one of them. There is just no way to fully understand or appreciate the glory of Easter without first experiencing Lent. Turning towards Jerusalem with Jesus and his disciples, we too are called to journey toward the cross. It is on that journey that Jesus teaches us about discipleship. He calls us to fast or eat more simply, while reflecting on what is important about our priorities. He urges us to share our wealth and give alms to those who are hungry or cold or homeless. He invites us to pray with him in the garden, and even when we fall asleep, he continues to invite us into relationship with him, again and again. He stops along the way to heal a blind beggar and implores us to acts of kindness as well. We can learn and experience a lot on the journey of discipleship with Jesus. But then we come face to face with a cross and death. And yes, it is about sin, our sin. But it is also about forgiveness and redemption and God’s marvelous love and grace.

Join me on this Lenten journey. There is a great promise waiting to be fulfilled at the end. Karen

INCLINE YOUR EAR

By the Rev. Margaret G. Payne, Bishop of the Synod, ELCA
(Excerpted from the February 2008 issue of “The Lutheran Link,” the quarterly magazine of the New England Synod)

I have a memory from elementary school of a teacher who would walk over to my desk when I raised my hand, and tilt her head down so that she could hear me better. She wore perfume that smelled like honeysuckle, so maybe it was my sense of smell that made the memory. But I can also remember the look on her face; it seemed to be full of interest about me, and she would nod encouragingly when I said something to her. It convinced me that what I had to say was deeply important and worth listening to, even if it was a third grade complaint about the fact that the class hamster’s next weekend home assignment was not at my house. Now that I think about it, she listened to all of us in her class that way.

Recently, a friend gave me an article about the role of bishops in the church. One of the section titles was: “Ears, the most Important Episcopal Tool.” That encouraged me to feel that our “Called to Listen, Called to Live” emphasis in the synod is consistent with good advice about how bishops, and all of us, should think of listening as an important tool for ministry. When we try hard to listen carefully to another person – inside the church, at the dry cleaners, at the soup kitchen, in our own home – with an inclined ear and an encouraging attitude, it is amazing what memories can be made and what transformation can be possible.

As we move into this first Lenten season of holy listening and “Return to the Lord our God,” we can also search for new ways to pay closer attention to God’s Word, convinced that it really is a word of life and deserves careful listening. In Lent, we make a special effort to respond to the wisdom from Isaiah: “Incline your ear, and come to me; listen, so that you may live” (Isaiah 55:3). The Bible is not just a history book, or even a book about the spiritual dynasties of the miracles of Jesus and the beginnings of the church. It is a symphony about the meaning and purpose of life, but you have to listen hard for all the parts of the symphony before you learn a More complete way of listening, so that you can take in the deepest message of the music.

The purpose of putting away the alleluias, choosing a special spiritual discipline and taking repentance a bit more seriously than usual is to create space and opportunity for a more deeply listening heart. Taking Lent seriously with extra listening is a good way to fill in the spaces left by the alleluias and the chocolate (or whatever) that you decided to give up as a way to remind yourself that satisfying our own appetites can never be the whole story of a meaningful life.  And if there aren’t any noticeable spaces of stillness and time for listening in your life, then perhaps your first Lenten task is to create them.

 ASH WEDNESDAY

IMPOSITION OF ASHES AND HOLY COMMUNION

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6TH AT 7:00 PM

LENTEN SERVICES

THURSDAYS, FEBRUARY 14, 21, 28

MARCH 6, 13

SOUP AND BREAD SUPPER AT 6:25

INFORMAL SERVICE WITH DRAMATIC READING AT 7:00 PM 

SEASON OF LENT

The season of Lent has always been, for me, a season of introspection and personal evaluation. It was, at one time, a season of restriction, of giving up something I desired – a time of sacrifice. It was a time when I tried to find and hold onto a discipline I didn't feel. In my frustration, I turned to the one who could help me understand. I turned to prayer. I don't pretend to know the reasons for theological rituals. But I do know giving up chocolate for forty days only gives me an excuse to gorge myself on Easter morning. It does not provide me understanding or reverence.

A couple years ago, I found additional prayer, speaking to our Lord as my dearest friend and confidant (a conversation, if you will) in the morning and in the evening of each Lenten day became a cherished habit. It taught me that the season of Lent is a time to bring us closer to God and His son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Peace to you all in this Lenten Season, Donna Simmons

AUDIO/VISUAL CONSULTATION

On February 9th from 9-2, we will be having a consultation on the use of projection equipment, downloading information and clips from web sites, using power point, and other related topics. This consultation will be led by Chris Indorf, technology instructor at Thornton Academy, and sponsored by our Worship Renewal Grant from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, funded by Lily Foundation. This consultation will assist us in the development of our third service, but will also have multiple uses in the life of the congregation. Anyone interested in learning more about the use of technology in a congregation is welcome. Lunch is included. Please sign up in advance on the board in the Narthex so that the consultant and meal planners can prepare accordingly. Snow date is February 16 th.

Loving is not just looking at each other, it's looking in the same direction. ~Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Wind, Sand, and Stars, 1939

 
CHOIR NOTES

First of all I would like to thank all that were involved with the Epiphany Concert held on Jan 6. It was a huge success, with extra chairs brought in to accommodate the overflow audience. I received a great compliment just yesterday from one of my students in the keyboarding class I teach for Wells Adult Ed who attended the concert and thought it was fantastic. I would also like to thank all those who contributed food for the York County Food Shelter. Jane and I delivered it and it was greatly appreciated. I do believe it was worth all the effort, and I am hoping we can make this an annual event, perhaps even two performances, one with a dinner on Saturday evening to celebrate Epiphany. Particular thanks to Rich McBrine, who recorded the concert. We hope to have CD's available this Spring.

Because of cold weather and possibly treacherous driving conditions on dark roads, and also to save oil by not heating the church unnecessarily, choir rehearsals have been changed to Sunday at 9:45 until later in the Spring. If anybody would like to sing for the Easter Season please see me or just show up on Sunday morning at 9:45.

I'm especially excited to see the Saturday evening Third Service becoming a reality, to begin in February. Thanks to the Calvin grant, we have been able to purchase a drum set for that service to use, and a bass guitar has been donated as well. If anybody can sing, or play guitar, bass, or drums, or help out with the sound system, please see me on Sunday or call. Peace, Warren

YOUTH SKI TRIP

Note to those who attend Kennebunk High School: we realize there is a dance at KHS on March 7th, but we think it will be possible for those who would like to attend the dance to still come along on the ski trip. The plan would be for some people to drive up Friday evening, and for others to go early Saturday morning. We are also considering Sunday River as an option this year, instead of Okemo -- both because it would be a shorter drive, and because the Eulers are making their condo available as a place for the group to stay.

If you have any questions about the trip, please call the church office and Rich Euler, Dan Krampetz, or Pastor Rich will be in touch.

SOCIAL CONCERNS FUEL TANK

In response to the prohibitive cost of fuel faced by some this winter, the Social Concerns Committee has placed a "fuel tank" in the Narthex as a means of helping those who are having a difficult time heating their homes. A donation toward this effort can be placed in the tank or by putting a check in the offering plate designated "fuel assistance" on the memo line. Any requests for fuel assistance should be brought to the attention of Pastor.

EASTER FLOWERS

Lent is beginning so that means that Easter is right around the corner. It is coming early this year, on March 23rd. Although that means it will be officially Spring, it will more than likely still feel like winter. Let’s work on ignoring the weather outside and bring Spring to our church. During Lent, there will be information and an order form included in the bulletins for lilies, tulips, daffodils and other Spring flowers for Easter morning. Please help out in driving winter away and beautifying our sanctuary for the Easter celebration!!

HOLY CROSS AUCTION

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8TH

POT LUCK AND SILENT AUCTION

FROM 6:00 - 7:00

SOME OF THE ITEMS AVAILABLE:

PRESIDENTIAL GOLF BALL SIGNED BY

GEORGE H.W. BUSH

ST. PAT’S DINNER

PIANO LESSONS BY THE KING

LASAGNA FOR 10

SIGNED BOOKS

 
CERAMICS

PIES, CAKES, FUDGE

JEWELRY BY MICHELE NOBLE

 
BASKET OF CANDLES

GIFT CARDS

MORE TO COME

BASICS OF THE FAITH CLASS

Beginning Thursday evening February 7th, Pastor Horner will be teaching a six week course on the Basics of the Faith. Topics to be covered include the Bible, Worship, Church History, the Sacraments, Christian Ethics, and Church Structure. Each will be considered from a Lutheran perspective.

The course is open to anyone who would like to attend, and is particularly helpful to those who are new to Lutheranism and/or new to Holy Cross. This course does serve as new member instruction for any one who may decide, afterwards, that they would like to make Holy Cross their church home. But it can also be taken by those who may not make such a decision, and would simply like to know more about how Lutherans understand and practice the Christian faith.

The dates for the six classes are as follows: February 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, March 6th, 13th, (Please note that the 7 pm mid-week services also scheduled on Thursdays in Lent will conclude at 7:30 pm, in time for the start of this class.) All of the sessions will take place in Luther Hall – the meeting space adjacent to the Narthex (lobby) of the church. If you can attend most, but not all, of the sessions you are certainly welcome to be there when you are able.

If you have any questions please be in touch with Pastor Horner either on a Sunday morning, or by phone at the church office.

SHARING THE JOY

Join us on Sunday, February 17th at 1:30 for a sing-along at the Atria. Singing old favorite hymns and songs, or visiting with the residents, provides great joy for everyone. Our friends are always happy to see us and so grateful for our fellowship.

THIRD SERVICE SPONSORSHIP

If you would like to provide some "above and beyond regular giving" type financial support for the new, Saturday service starting on February 23rd, it would be most welcome and appreciated. As a reference point, of sorts, the budget for the new service is $150 per week. The third service planning group thought people might like to "sponsor" a week of the service -- but of course please feel free to give any amount you might choose. Should you feel led to make a donation for this purpose, please indicate clearly that it is designated as a "third service sponsorship" so it can be properly accounted for. Thanks!

HOLY CROSS AUCTION

A Cape Arundel golf ball singed by George H.W. Bush in a plastic cube (there will be a reserve on this item)? Piano lessons by the King? Jewelry by Michele Noble? Dinner at the Associate’s? Homemade food and desserts by accomplished chefs? Needlework and other crafts made with gifted hands? St. Pat’s at the Bates? Signed books? Gift cards? Brunch for five? Much more!!!

Set aside the date of Friday, February 8th, for a fun filled evening of fellowship and fund raising for our third service video equipment. We will begin at 6:00 with a potluck dinner and silent auction, followed by games and movies for children, while older youth and adults keep their hands in their pockets or high in the air as we auction off goods and services to the highest bidder. We are seeking donations of services such as preparing a special meal, baking a pie or special dessert, mowing a lawn, shoveling snow, assisting with minor home repairs, an evening of child care, etc. etc. We will also accept donations of new/like-new items suitable for auction. This might include gift cards, fruit baskets, quilts, etc. Snow date is Friday, February 15th. There are two sign up sheets in the Narthex ­ one for donating goods and/or services; the other for attending the potluck/auction.

 UPCOMING AND ONGOING SOCIAL CONCERNS PROJECTS

It has come to our attention that there are newborns at Southern Maine Medical Center that are in need of basic layette items. The next Social Concerns workday will take place on February 9th from 9:00-1:00. We will sew receiving blankets; make hats and other layette items for these newborns. No experience is required. Come join us for a day of fellowship and fun. A light lunch and snacks are provided. Please sign up in the Narthex.

The fuel assistance fund is now in place. If you know a member of the congregation who is in need of fuel assistance, or are in need yourself, please contact Pastor Horner. If you would like to contribute, please place your donation in the fuel tank or offering plate (please mark your donation “fuel assistance”).

We are in the midst of making plans for the second annual Blueberry Festival in August. If you have any ideas for craft items or ideas to improve upon last year’s festival. Please contact Linda Gaidimas or any member of the Social Concerns Committee.

We are always ready to welcome new members to our committee, if you are interested please come to our next meeting. We meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 5:30 pm. A light supper is provided. We will be making plans for this year and new ideas are always welcome.

NEW MEMBERS

At the end of last year we welcomed the following new members to our Holy Cross family:

KAREN LIENHARD moved to Maine from Des Moines, IA, last April where she was an active member of a Lutheran Church while serving as secretary in a Methodist Church. A graduate of Wartburg College, she worked for many years as a social worker with Easter Seals, and with foster care and adoptions. She likes walking, reading, and gardening.

DICK EATON came to Maine from Hanover, MA. He served in the Navy Hospital Corp in World War II and then completed a degree in education from U. Mass and BU. He taught social studies and served as an administrator after obtaining his M.ED. He has five children. In 2004 he was given the Spirit of Hanover Community Service Award. He collects models of animals and loves to do volunteer work.

ALAN THOMAS hails from Downer’s Grove, IL, but has lived in many different places. He has a Ph.D. from the U of Minnesota in chemistry and works as a manager at Fiber Materials Inc. in Biddeford. Husband of Miriam and father of twin girls, he loves to go fishing.

MIRIAM THOMAS, wife of Alan, grew up in Dallas, TX where her father was a Lutheran pastor. She has a degree in chemistry from Texas A&M and is a sales manager for Falcon Technologies. She sings in the choir and plays chauffeur to her twin daughters.

MICHELLE THOMAS is a 13 year old seventh grader at Scarborough Middle School. A twin sister to Christina, she plays saxophone in the jazz band and is on the basketball team. She loves to read.

CHRISTINA THOMAS is a 13 year old seventh grader at Scarborough Middle School. A twin sister to Michelle, she plays trumpet in the honors and jazz bands and is on the basketball

This is just a reminder to everyone that The Crier deadline is the 15th of each month. This enables us to get the newsletter to you in a timely fashion so you will know what is happening at church in the upcoming month. The last few months, this deadline has been pushed back with reminders going out after the deadline has passed. It is my goal with the new year to get reminders out to everyone before the 15th and that I will receive most of the material as close to the 15th as possible. Receiving items on the Sunday before The Crier is collated (usually the last Tuesday or Wednesday of the month) causes unnecessary stress and a rush to get the newsletter to Beverly on time.

It would also be helpful if all items were in Arial 10 point font. Other fonts such as Comic Sans, Times New Roman, etc. may look nice but it makes formatting The Crier for print and especially on-line exceedingly difficult and also leads to unnecessary stress.

Thank you! Your Editor, Julie Clapp (the one trying to lead a stress-free life)

Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity.

~Henry Van Dyke