Current news at westminster
Click here for the September/October 2023 newsletter
Interim Update
Westminster is currently in an interim period between called pastors. The Rev. Dr. Stacy Smith is providing temporary pastoral leadership from Aug 1 to Nov 30. In addition to Stacy's leadership, many church leaders are faithfully doing the work of the church. The Pastor Nominating Committee was elected in June, and is meeting weekly on Thursday evenings. They have recently completed the church’s Ministry Discernment Profile and uploaded it into the Church Leadership Connection (CLC) and are now reviewing initial matches. The CLC is the denomination’s matching site for churches seeking pastors and pastors seeking calls. Read more about the interim period here.
Hybrid worship: One community together in spirit
We offer a hybrid worship experience that engages both in-person and online worshipers, creating a single, unified community that stretches across pews and data streams. Livestream worship is on Facebook Live. Join us in-person or online at 9:30am every Sunday morning!
October Sermons
Oct 1 - World Communion Sunday
Oct 8 - Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12)
Oct 15 - Sermon on the Mount: Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16)
Oct 22 - Sermon on the Mount: Worry (Matthew 6:25-34)
Oct 29 - Reformation Sunday Lessons & Carols
New Christian Education opportunities this fall
There’s something for everyone in faith formation and education this fall! The new Christian Ed Working Group and our CE staff are busy making exciting plans for children and youth. In addition to the Children’s Worship Center for ages 3 years through grade 2, plans include incorporating more music, stories, and crafts in the nursery, and offering a new weekly lesson following the children’s message for kids in grades 3-6. There are also weekly plans for youth forums (grades 7-12) during the Education Hour, as well as a once-a-month evening program called "Meet and Eat." Read more here!
Join the Westminster Choir
Westminsterʹs vocal choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings at 7 PM, and Sunday mornings at 9 AM in the upstairs choir room adjacent to the choir loft. Adults and teens are welcome. Please contact Lori Rhodes Pettit for more information or call the church office at 315-253-3331. Handbells will begin rehearsing for Christmas in late October.
Adult Forums
Westminster believes education is for all ages, and offers Adult Forums to explore faith questions, community concerns, and matters of importance to our members and friends. There are two forums scheduled in October:
October 8 Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders
Monika Salvage and Jason Meyers will talk about their work in opioid overdose prevention in the community, and how mental illness and addiction intersect. They will also provide a Narcan demonstration.
October 22 Social Justice at Westminster
Nina and Jerry Wickett are starting a new Small Group at Westminster, geared toward continuing efforts to be a voice for justice in our community. This forum will explore the ways our church can advocate for civil rights, immigration justice, LGBTQ rights, food security, and more.
Bible Study at Westminster Manor
A new Bible Study on the letters of Paul, led by Pastor Stacy, will meet the following Wednesdays-- (Sept 6, Sept 20, Oct 4, Oct 25, Nov 1 and Nov 15-- at 3 PM in the common room at Westminster Manor, 81 South St. All are welcome!
Children’s Worship Center
What is the Children’s Worship Center? It’s a place for children to worship God! Following the children’s message kids ages 3 years through grade 2 are invited to join story teller Noel Cregg for a song, story, meditative work time and prayer. The stories are told chronologically beginning with Old Testament stories in the fall, and follow the church calendar.
Refresh Women's Group
Refresh, Westminster’s Women’s Spirituality group, gathers in person on Saturday, Oct. 14 at 10 AM in the church social room. All women, members and friends, are invited to join this small group for fellowship and Bible study. Refresh is discussing a book called Holy Moments by Matthew Kelly There are extra books available; if you are interested, talk with Bronwyn OʹConnor.
“Filled with Awe”
The September/October Ministry Team has selected “Filled with Awe” as our theme for the fall months. This theme draws on scripture from Acts 2:42‐43: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.” We will also focus on the four components of the apostles’ work: teaching, fellowship, communion and prayer. We invite everyone in the congregation to find meaningful opportunities to do the work of the apostles.
Home Communion
The Deacons are resuming visits with homebound members and friends, bringing communion to those who are unable to come to church. If you or a family member would like this, please email Melanie at office@westminsterauburn.org or speak with Noel Cregg.
Ministry Teams and Small Groups
What is this new Ministry Team process all about!? You’ve heard that we are experimenting with a new way to plan worship, Christian Education, Mission and fellowship, but how does it work? Does it replace committees? Can you really sign up for short term commitments? How is it going? Read more here! Small Groups are another of the initiatives from the Holy Conversations report. Read more about Small Groups and other ministry opportunities here.
Help plan Advent and Christmas
Anyone who’d like to offer ideas or help with plans for November and December are invited to attend the Ministry Team meeting on Monday, October 2 at 6:30pm in the conference room of the church. Participants can attend either in person or on Zoom; contact Pastor Stacy for the Zoom link.
Loose Change Offering
We designate the "loose offerings" to local organizations and programs which serve the community and people in need. Contributions are made in the offering box in the narthex, by mailing checks to the office, or through online giving on the church website. The first Sunday of each month, the loose offerings support the Calvary Food Pantry. The rest of the Sundays in October, loose offerings support Perform 4 Purpose, a local non-profit that engages over 40 young musicians in musical performances that raise funds for community causes. To donate online, please click here.
Apple Pie-apalooza!
You’re invited to bake apple pies on Saturday, October 7, from 10:00AM to 1:00PM, which will be shared the next day during fellowship time. RSVP with Susan Marteney by October 4. (Unfortunately, we need to cancel the apple-picking excursion we had planned. Owens Orchard is not doing U-pick this fall because the harvest was affected by the freezing temperatures in May.)
World Communion Sunday
October 1 is World Communion Sunday, which lifts up our oneness in Christ by celebrating communion all on the same day around the world. It began in the 1930s when the world faced disturbing political and social divisions, and it continues today as a hopeful and restorative practice in a still fragmented world. As we lift the bread and cup, let us remember our connectedness rather than our differences.
Peace and Global Witness Offering
The Peace and Global Witness Offering is received during the Season of Peace, which ends on World Communion Sunday October 1. Gifts to this offering enable the church to promote the Peace of Christ by addressing systems of injustice across the world. Congregations in our Presbytery can designate 37.5% of what they collect for a local mission of our choice. Westminster’s portion will support the work of the Opioid Overdose Prevention Program, which we hear more about in an adult forum following church on October 8.
Pride House
Pride House of New York is a youth program for teens and young adults ages 13-18, located at 17 William Street in Auburn New York. Our program and facility offer a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ+) teens, and their allies. Pride House is a place of acceptance and support where LGBTQ+ youth and their allies can come together and be welcomed as themselves, embrace their individuality, receive support, have fun, and connect with others. All events, programs, and services at Pride House are always free! Learn more about Pride House here.
Congregational Meeting October 22
The Session of Westminster Presbyterian Church has called a special meeting of the congregation for Sunday, October 22, 2023 immediately following worship for the purpose of (1) revising the church’s bylaws to reduce the number of members elected to session and the board of deacons from 12 to 9 members each; and (2) electing officers for 2024.
Contemplative Hike in Fort Hill Cemetery October 28
The annual All Saints contemplative hike in Fort Hill Cemetery will be Saturday October 28 at 1:00pm (note time change). This hike takes us through sacred space where many of our church friends and family are buried, and also many of the forebearers of our congregation and community. We will remember them, and other saints who we love, as we walk among the stones, trees, and paths of Fort Hill. Brian Teucke will lead the hike; please RSVP for details.
Deacons Prayer Service for Healing and Wholeness
The Deacons will offer a Prayer Service for Healing and Wholeness on Wednesday, October 25 at 5:30pm in the Chapel. All members and friends of Westminster are invited to attend, and the community is also welcome.
Advent Calendar Workshop
All ages and skill levels are invited to a workshop to make a felt Advent Calendar wall-hanging with Susan Marteney. The workshop will take place over two weekends- Saturday, October 28 and Saturday November 4 from 10am to 1pm in the Junior Room on the second floor of the Education Building. Most materials will be provided. RSVPs with Susan are necessary by October 22 to ensure sufficient materials.
Closed captioning on Facebook Live
Did you know you can turn on closed captioning for Facebook Live worship? If you are hard of hearing, or want to keep the volume low on your computer, or find that closed captioning helps you follow along better, just follow these simple instructions: https://www.facebook.com/help/427723640933279
Citizen Columns
Westminster is featured in a monthly column in the Auburn Citizen.
2023 columns:
Rev. Dr. Dan Kuhn's September 3 column: Westminster's doors remain open wide
Jill Fandrich's August 6 column: What's in a slogan? "Where you're already home"
Brian Teucke's July column: Contemplative hikes for all
Jill Fandrich's June 11 column: An appreciation of Patrick Heery
Patrick Heery's May 14 column: Quick parting takes from the pastor
Jill Fandrich's April 16 column: Remembering Thomas, the patron saint of skeptics
Patrick Heery's March 19 column: How Auburn has showed me God
Shavonn Lynch's February 19 column: Walking in the light of Christ
Jill Fandrich's January 22 column: Sharing our faith through stories
Older columns can be found here
Take a virtual tour!
Ever wondered what goes on inside of our big beautiful buildings on William St? Learn more by taking a virtual tour! Check it out here.
The Little Free Library
The Little Free Library in front of our church is always in need of good quality books for children, youth, and adults. You can leave donated books in the library itself or drop them off to the church office. And while you're there, check out the Little Free Library for some new reading material for yourself!
Personal Care Pantry
The Personal Care Pantry is looking for volunteers to host the once-a-month Give-away days on the last Wednesday of each month from 10 am - 12 noon. Guests may select from a variety of items such as soap, cleaner, TP, deodorant and more. Westminster volunteers assist with selection from a cart and bagging; there is no need for record keeping. Personal care items are purchased with funds from the Mission Committee. If interested in hosting one Wednesday or picking up the items at a local store, contact Anne Malvaso or Susan Marteney.
Coat Tree
The Mission Committee has set up the Coat Tree in the hallway of the Education Building to provide coats, gloves, hats and scarves to members of our community in need of warm winter clothes. If you have gently used, clean coats (adult’s or children’s), please consider donating to the coat rack. Please hang your coats on the rack and place winter hats, gloves and scarves in the boxes below.
Capital Projects
Our church is more than a building, but we also acknowledge that the historic edifice which houses our ministries is the home in which we meet, worship, work, and serve the community. That home, however, is over 150 years old, and in need of constant care and maintenance. In 2020, we decided to complete a comprehensive property conditions study to efficiently plan for building repairs and renovations. We felt this was the best way to be good stewards of our property and our limited financial resources, helping us prioritize projects in a multi-year plan. Using a grant from the Sacred Sites Program of the NY Landmarks Conservancy, we engaged the services of Beardsley Inc to complete the conditions study. They provided us with a comprehensive study last year, outlining an array of top, medium, and lower priority projects to address over the next five years. We have already undertaken the first phase to abate the water damage to our foundation and walls by diverting storm drainage and installing gutters and downspouts. This work was top priority to stop further damage, and now we are able to can undertake further repairs. The proposed projects for 2023 involve bringing certain items up to code (electrical, lighting, etc.), repointing the masonry where needed, and shoring up the sanctuary basement where needed. These are important for keeping everyone safe and for maintaining the integrity of the buildings’ structure. Here are the documents with details about the capital projects which are priorities at Westminster:
Click here for the assessment of our buildings and capital project recommendations, from the architectural firm Beardsley.
Click here for the slideshow summary of the Beardsley report.
Click here to read the Holy Conversations strategic visioning report (2022)
Click here for the 2022 Annual Report
Interim Update
Westminster is currently in an interim period between called pastors. The Rev. Dr. Stacy Smith is providing temporary pastoral leadership from Aug 1 to Nov 30. In addition to Stacy's leadership, many church leaders are faithfully doing the work of the church. The Pastor Nominating Committee was elected in June, and is meeting weekly on Thursday evenings. They have recently completed the church’s Ministry Discernment Profile and uploaded it into the Church Leadership Connection (CLC) and are now reviewing initial matches. The CLC is the denomination’s matching site for churches seeking pastors and pastors seeking calls. Read more about the interim period here.
Hybrid worship: One community together in spirit
We offer a hybrid worship experience that engages both in-person and online worshipers, creating a single, unified community that stretches across pews and data streams. Livestream worship is on Facebook Live. Join us in-person or online at 9:30am every Sunday morning!
October Sermons
Oct 1 - World Communion Sunday
Oct 8 - Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12)
Oct 15 - Sermon on the Mount: Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16)
Oct 22 - Sermon on the Mount: Worry (Matthew 6:25-34)
Oct 29 - Reformation Sunday Lessons & Carols
New Christian Education opportunities this fall
There’s something for everyone in faith formation and education this fall! The new Christian Ed Working Group and our CE staff are busy making exciting plans for children and youth. In addition to the Children’s Worship Center for ages 3 years through grade 2, plans include incorporating more music, stories, and crafts in the nursery, and offering a new weekly lesson following the children’s message for kids in grades 3-6. There are also weekly plans for youth forums (grades 7-12) during the Education Hour, as well as a once-a-month evening program called "Meet and Eat." Read more here!
Join the Westminster Choir
Westminsterʹs vocal choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings at 7 PM, and Sunday mornings at 9 AM in the upstairs choir room adjacent to the choir loft. Adults and teens are welcome. Please contact Lori Rhodes Pettit for more information or call the church office at 315-253-3331. Handbells will begin rehearsing for Christmas in late October.
Adult Forums
Westminster believes education is for all ages, and offers Adult Forums to explore faith questions, community concerns, and matters of importance to our members and friends. There are two forums scheduled in October:
October 8 Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders
Monika Salvage and Jason Meyers will talk about their work in opioid overdose prevention in the community, and how mental illness and addiction intersect. They will also provide a Narcan demonstration.
October 22 Social Justice at Westminster
Nina and Jerry Wickett are starting a new Small Group at Westminster, geared toward continuing efforts to be a voice for justice in our community. This forum will explore the ways our church can advocate for civil rights, immigration justice, LGBTQ rights, food security, and more.
Bible Study at Westminster Manor
A new Bible Study on the letters of Paul, led by Pastor Stacy, will meet the following Wednesdays-- (Sept 6, Sept 20, Oct 4, Oct 25, Nov 1 and Nov 15-- at 3 PM in the common room at Westminster Manor, 81 South St. All are welcome!
Children’s Worship Center
What is the Children’s Worship Center? It’s a place for children to worship God! Following the children’s message kids ages 3 years through grade 2 are invited to join story teller Noel Cregg for a song, story, meditative work time and prayer. The stories are told chronologically beginning with Old Testament stories in the fall, and follow the church calendar.
Refresh Women's Group
Refresh, Westminster’s Women’s Spirituality group, gathers in person on Saturday, Oct. 14 at 10 AM in the church social room. All women, members and friends, are invited to join this small group for fellowship and Bible study. Refresh is discussing a book called Holy Moments by Matthew Kelly There are extra books available; if you are interested, talk with Bronwyn OʹConnor.
“Filled with Awe”
The September/October Ministry Team has selected “Filled with Awe” as our theme for the fall months. This theme draws on scripture from Acts 2:42‐43: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.” We will also focus on the four components of the apostles’ work: teaching, fellowship, communion and prayer. We invite everyone in the congregation to find meaningful opportunities to do the work of the apostles.
Home Communion
The Deacons are resuming visits with homebound members and friends, bringing communion to those who are unable to come to church. If you or a family member would like this, please email Melanie at office@westminsterauburn.org or speak with Noel Cregg.
Ministry Teams and Small Groups
What is this new Ministry Team process all about!? You’ve heard that we are experimenting with a new way to plan worship, Christian Education, Mission and fellowship, but how does it work? Does it replace committees? Can you really sign up for short term commitments? How is it going? Read more here! Small Groups are another of the initiatives from the Holy Conversations report. Read more about Small Groups and other ministry opportunities here.
Help plan Advent and Christmas
Anyone who’d like to offer ideas or help with plans for November and December are invited to attend the Ministry Team meeting on Monday, October 2 at 6:30pm in the conference room of the church. Participants can attend either in person or on Zoom; contact Pastor Stacy for the Zoom link.
Loose Change Offering
We designate the "loose offerings" to local organizations and programs which serve the community and people in need. Contributions are made in the offering box in the narthex, by mailing checks to the office, or through online giving on the church website. The first Sunday of each month, the loose offerings support the Calvary Food Pantry. The rest of the Sundays in October, loose offerings support Perform 4 Purpose, a local non-profit that engages over 40 young musicians in musical performances that raise funds for community causes. To donate online, please click here.
Apple Pie-apalooza!
You’re invited to bake apple pies on Saturday, October 7, from 10:00AM to 1:00PM, which will be shared the next day during fellowship time. RSVP with Susan Marteney by October 4. (Unfortunately, we need to cancel the apple-picking excursion we had planned. Owens Orchard is not doing U-pick this fall because the harvest was affected by the freezing temperatures in May.)
World Communion Sunday
October 1 is World Communion Sunday, which lifts up our oneness in Christ by celebrating communion all on the same day around the world. It began in the 1930s when the world faced disturbing political and social divisions, and it continues today as a hopeful and restorative practice in a still fragmented world. As we lift the bread and cup, let us remember our connectedness rather than our differences.
Peace and Global Witness Offering
The Peace and Global Witness Offering is received during the Season of Peace, which ends on World Communion Sunday October 1. Gifts to this offering enable the church to promote the Peace of Christ by addressing systems of injustice across the world. Congregations in our Presbytery can designate 37.5% of what they collect for a local mission of our choice. Westminster’s portion will support the work of the Opioid Overdose Prevention Program, which we hear more about in an adult forum following church on October 8.
Pride House
Pride House of New York is a youth program for teens and young adults ages 13-18, located at 17 William Street in Auburn New York. Our program and facility offer a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ+) teens, and their allies. Pride House is a place of acceptance and support where LGBTQ+ youth and their allies can come together and be welcomed as themselves, embrace their individuality, receive support, have fun, and connect with others. All events, programs, and services at Pride House are always free! Learn more about Pride House here.
Congregational Meeting October 22
The Session of Westminster Presbyterian Church has called a special meeting of the congregation for Sunday, October 22, 2023 immediately following worship for the purpose of (1) revising the church’s bylaws to reduce the number of members elected to session and the board of deacons from 12 to 9 members each; and (2) electing officers for 2024.
Contemplative Hike in Fort Hill Cemetery October 28
The annual All Saints contemplative hike in Fort Hill Cemetery will be Saturday October 28 at 1:00pm (note time change). This hike takes us through sacred space where many of our church friends and family are buried, and also many of the forebearers of our congregation and community. We will remember them, and other saints who we love, as we walk among the stones, trees, and paths of Fort Hill. Brian Teucke will lead the hike; please RSVP for details.
Deacons Prayer Service for Healing and Wholeness
The Deacons will offer a Prayer Service for Healing and Wholeness on Wednesday, October 25 at 5:30pm in the Chapel. All members and friends of Westminster are invited to attend, and the community is also welcome.
Advent Calendar Workshop
All ages and skill levels are invited to a workshop to make a felt Advent Calendar wall-hanging with Susan Marteney. The workshop will take place over two weekends- Saturday, October 28 and Saturday November 4 from 10am to 1pm in the Junior Room on the second floor of the Education Building. Most materials will be provided. RSVPs with Susan are necessary by October 22 to ensure sufficient materials.
Closed captioning on Facebook Live
Did you know you can turn on closed captioning for Facebook Live worship? If you are hard of hearing, or want to keep the volume low on your computer, or find that closed captioning helps you follow along better, just follow these simple instructions: https://www.facebook.com/help/427723640933279
Citizen Columns
Westminster is featured in a monthly column in the Auburn Citizen.
2023 columns:
Rev. Dr. Dan Kuhn's September 3 column: Westminster's doors remain open wide
Jill Fandrich's August 6 column: What's in a slogan? "Where you're already home"
Brian Teucke's July column: Contemplative hikes for all
Jill Fandrich's June 11 column: An appreciation of Patrick Heery
Patrick Heery's May 14 column: Quick parting takes from the pastor
Jill Fandrich's April 16 column: Remembering Thomas, the patron saint of skeptics
Patrick Heery's March 19 column: How Auburn has showed me God
Shavonn Lynch's February 19 column: Walking in the light of Christ
Jill Fandrich's January 22 column: Sharing our faith through stories
Older columns can be found here
Take a virtual tour!
Ever wondered what goes on inside of our big beautiful buildings on William St? Learn more by taking a virtual tour! Check it out here.
The Little Free Library
The Little Free Library in front of our church is always in need of good quality books for children, youth, and adults. You can leave donated books in the library itself or drop them off to the church office. And while you're there, check out the Little Free Library for some new reading material for yourself!
Personal Care Pantry
The Personal Care Pantry is looking for volunteers to host the once-a-month Give-away days on the last Wednesday of each month from 10 am - 12 noon. Guests may select from a variety of items such as soap, cleaner, TP, deodorant and more. Westminster volunteers assist with selection from a cart and bagging; there is no need for record keeping. Personal care items are purchased with funds from the Mission Committee. If interested in hosting one Wednesday or picking up the items at a local store, contact Anne Malvaso or Susan Marteney.
Coat Tree
The Mission Committee has set up the Coat Tree in the hallway of the Education Building to provide coats, gloves, hats and scarves to members of our community in need of warm winter clothes. If you have gently used, clean coats (adult’s or children’s), please consider donating to the coat rack. Please hang your coats on the rack and place winter hats, gloves and scarves in the boxes below.
Capital Projects
Our church is more than a building, but we also acknowledge that the historic edifice which houses our ministries is the home in which we meet, worship, work, and serve the community. That home, however, is over 150 years old, and in need of constant care and maintenance. In 2020, we decided to complete a comprehensive property conditions study to efficiently plan for building repairs and renovations. We felt this was the best way to be good stewards of our property and our limited financial resources, helping us prioritize projects in a multi-year plan. Using a grant from the Sacred Sites Program of the NY Landmarks Conservancy, we engaged the services of Beardsley Inc to complete the conditions study. They provided us with a comprehensive study last year, outlining an array of top, medium, and lower priority projects to address over the next five years. We have already undertaken the first phase to abate the water damage to our foundation and walls by diverting storm drainage and installing gutters and downspouts. This work was top priority to stop further damage, and now we are able to can undertake further repairs. The proposed projects for 2023 involve bringing certain items up to code (electrical, lighting, etc.), repointing the masonry where needed, and shoring up the sanctuary basement where needed. These are important for keeping everyone safe and for maintaining the integrity of the buildings’ structure. Here are the documents with details about the capital projects which are priorities at Westminster:
Click here for the assessment of our buildings and capital project recommendations, from the architectural firm Beardsley.
Click here for the slideshow summary of the Beardsley report.
Click here to read the Holy Conversations strategic visioning report (2022)
Click here for the 2022 Annual Report