Current news at westminster
September/October Newsletter here
LGBTQ+ Support
The Q Center/ACR Health is partnering with Westminster Presbyterian Church to bring their support services to Cayuga County. The Q Center is in Auburn every 2nd and 4th Monday from 3pm – 7pm. There is also a parent group on the 4th Monday from 5pm -7pm. Snacks, games, fun and a dinner are provided. The Q Center is a reputable organization with experience counseling the LGBTQ+ youth population. These facilitated support groups are potentially life saving services that, up until now, have not been provided in Cayuga County. Have additional questions? Call the Q Center at (315) 475-2430 or email qcentercny@acrhealth.org.
Wednesday Noon Study
This fall, you have the chance to go deeper in your spiritual journey, every Wednesday. The Wednesday-noon conversation and Bible study group meets in the conference room of the Education Building. Join us over your lunch hour as we talk about how Scripture and faith relate to our everyday living and current events. Feel free to brown bag your lunch. In September, we will begin a series on Jesus' parables—those mysterious teachings that are so central to our faith, so memorable, so life-changing, and yet so hard to understand. We'll discuss individual parables and explore their historical, literary, theological, and socio-political dimensions and various meanings. We'll also learn about different theories on how we should interpret, relate to, and live out Jesus' parables.
Interested in membership?
If you are interested in learning more about what it means to be Presbyterian and how to become a member of Westminster Church, this is the time to learn more! There will be two adult forums October 14 and 21 for everyone interested in brushing up on polity, discuss what it means to live in grace, and discover how you have been called to practice your faith. The forums are open to everyone. Talk to Pastor Patrick or Linda MacKay (chair of the Membership/Evangelism Committee) if you have questions.
Notice of Congregational Meeting
There will be a brief congregational meeting at the end of worship Sunday morning October 14, 2018, to hear the report of the Nominating Committee and to elect elders and deacons for the Class of 2021, and at-large members of the church nominating committee for 2019.
Elder Care Conversation Circle
Are you concerned that your parents aren’t safe in their home anymore?
Are you overwhelmed with helping with meals, medicines, hygiene, appointments?
Are you confused about the services available to help you help them?
Are you “parenting your parents”?
Come talk with others who are on this same journey at the Elder Care Conversation Circle, which meets on the last Tuesday of each month for conversation, sharing, and support. The Elder Care Conversation Circle meets September 25, October 30 (with presentation on "tips of the trade" for safely helping seniors with transfers, movement, etc), November 27, and December 18 at 7pm in the social room of Westminster Church. Sessions include general sharing and listening, and occasional outside speakers on topics of concern to the group.
Property Work Day
Our hard working Property Committee holds monthly work days on the third Saturday of each month, starting at 9am. There are tasks for all skill levels, and the Property Committee would love to have you join them Saturday October 20! Talk to Robyn Warn if you'd like more information.
Children's Worship Center
The Children's Worship Center offers an age appropriate worship experience for children ages 3 years old through grade 2, based on the Montessori model. Children learn to experience God's presence through hearing Bible stories and responding to them. Storyteller Noel Lardeo and a trained greeter welcome children to this unique space every Sunday morning following the pastor's time with children in the sanctuary. The Worship Center is located right outside the sanctuary doors.
Sunday School
Children in grades K through 3, and 4 through 7 meets in the new REACH wing following worship and fellowship. The former nursery school rooms have been transformed into new rooms for our children and youth. Chris Patch teaches the older youth, and Andrea and Aaron Creighton teach the younger children, using a new curriculum called "Spark!" Chelsea and Elena provide childcare for infants and toddlers during the education hour in the new toddler room of the REACH wing. In keeping with our Child Safety Policy, there will be at least two adults present at all times with the children. The Sunday morning classes are off to a fresh start, with new leadership, new resources, and a new location; the kids are in store for a great year!
Meet Chris Patch!
Christopher Patch is our new Children and Youth Ministry Coordinator. He says, “I am very excited to begin serving in this newly created position. My wife Kim and I moved to Auburn along with our three daughters a little over 11 years ago from the Binghamton area. We began attending Westminster about a year and a half ago and officially became members recently. We knew, however, from the very first service we attended that we had found a new church home and family. Professionally, I have worked as a restaurant manager and chef, but since moving to Auburn I have primarily worked in education and project management. Educationally, I have a Masters degree in Theology from Northeastern Seminary in Rochester. I have also led many formal and informal small groups and workshops for both adults and youth. My goal is to help create new opportunities for the children and youth of Westminster that offer fellowship, spiritual growth, and theological education. I look forward to serving the children and youth in our congregation, as well as their parents in anyway I can be of assistance.”
Coat Tree
As fall weather arrives, the need increases for warm outerwear for many people in Auburn. Westminster has a coat rack in the education building offering coats, gloves, hats, and scarves free to walk-ins. If you have any gently used cold weather items to donate to this local mission, please bring them in to the church office. They will be put to good use and will be much appreciated.
Harvest Dinner and Baby Shower
Westminster's fall Harvest Dinner will be Saturday, October 27, starting at 5pm in the Great Hall. Bring a dish to pass; cake and beverages will be provided. The evening will also include a baby shower for Patrick and Jenna's little pumpkin Emerson! If you'd like to contribute to a gift, see Linda MacKay for ideas.
Loose Change Offerings
The loose change in the offering plates is designated toward a special cause each month. In October, they support the church's Thanksgiving Basket Project, which provides complete Thanksgiving meals to families through the Calvary Food Pantry. The value of one meal is $38. Contributions can be for all or part of the cost.
Children and Worship
All ages are welcome in worship, and we also provide options for young children in nearby locations to the sanctuary. Older children (grade 3 and up) worship with their families in the sanctuary; there are lectionary-related worksheets, books, and other resources available at the back of the sanctuary to engage children in worship. Elena Thomas and Chelsea Cater provide loving care for infants and toddlers in the social room. We also have a Baby Corner in the sanctuary with rocking chairs to provide a cozy spot for parents to cuddle with their infants and be in worship together.
Contemplative hike October 27
Join us for a time of renewal in the beauty of God's creation as we reconnect, in prayerful silence and conversation, with our spirits and the Spirit of our Maker. On Saturday, October 27, from 10am to 12pm, we will take a special All-Saints-themed hike at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn. We will walk in memory of loved ones who have died and joined that great communion of saints (whom we will remember and celebrate in worship on November 4). As the name suggests, Fort Hill does involve some steep incline. Please speak with Patrick in advance (pastor@westminsterauburn.org, 315-253-3331). Detailed information will then be provided.
Veterans Day Worship
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Armistice which ended the fighting of World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Westminster will hold a special Veterans Day worship service on Sunday, November 11 at 9:30am, honoring all veterans and sending a message of hope for peace in our time. The church bells will ring at 11am, and we invite other area churches, government buildings, and organizations to toll their bells at 11am as well, as part of the nationwide Bells of Peace movement.
Westminster Nursery School Closes
It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Westminster Nursery School, due to decreased enrollment. This was not an easy decision for the Westminster Nursery School Board, but was necessary due to financial reasons. This decision was made in full appreciation of the long history of Westminster Nursery School, its impact on the community, the great work and loving devotion of the staff, and the responsibility of the board to fulfill its duties and responsibilities. A full explanation can be read here in the letter that was sent to Westminster members in July. You can also read about the September 30 special worship service which celebrated the school's legacy: A New Thing: Westminster Nursery School Remembered
Traffic and Parking
Construction proceeds on the new regional welcome center which is being built across the street from the church. The city has created a 4-way stop intersection, traffic pattern, and pedestrian walkways in front of the church to make vehicular and pedestrian traffic safer. Please be aware of the changes around the church. To ease traffic congestion on weekdays, enter the church parking lot from Court Street and exit onto William Street. You can turn right or left from the exit, but cannot go straight while Lincoln Street is closed for the duration of the construction. Church members may use the church parking lot during the week when attending a church program or on church business. Permits are available from Melanie.
Citizen Column
Westminster is featured in a monthly column in the Auburn Citizen. Here are:
Patrick Heery's October 7 column: "How paternity leave made me a better father"
Jill Fandrich's Sept 9 column: "How storytelling helps us believe"
Jill Fandrich's August 12 column: "The good side of evangelism"
Jill Fandrich's July 15 column: "The Radical history of Sunday School"
Patrick Heery's June 17 column: "What would Jesus say about school shootings?"
Jill Fandrich's May 20 column: "How families can pass faith on to children"
Patrick Heery's April 22 column "When God calls your name"
Jill Fandrich's March 25 column "Telling the Holy Week stories to children"
Patrick Heery's Feb 25 column "Lent: The time is now"
Jill Fandrich's Jan 28 column "Westminster grant supports show based on neo-Nazi rally"
Audrey McNally's Dec 31 column "How sacred music has shaped my faith"
Patrick Heery's Dec 3 column "Where you'll find God this Christmas Eve"
Jill Fandrich's Nov 5 column "What comes after 'thoughts and prayers'?"
Patrick Heery's October 15 column "Finding the strength to fix our democracy"
Jill Fandrich's September 10 column "Church starting new caregivers group"
Patrick Heery's August 13 column "New Hiking Ministry Offers Renewal"
Jill Fandrich's July 16 column "The Redefinition of Missionaries"
Patrick Heery's June 18 column "Sabbath: a bus pass to paradise"
Patrick Heery's May 21 column "How does a pastor grieve?"
Jill Fandrich's April 23 column "The Gospel According to Flatland"
Audrey McNally's March 26 column "Discovering the Psalms"
Patrick Heery's Feb 26 column "Lenten Journey: Death and Beyond"
Jill Fandrich's Jan 29 column "Are We Ready For Another Reformation?"
Patrick Heery's Jan 1 column "When the Holidays Hurt"
Jill Fandrich's Dec 4 column "Need for Community and Conversation"
Annette Bell's Nov 6 column "Saints Among Us"
Patrick Heery's Oct 9 column "Does Auburn need a hero? No, it needs you"
Patrick Heery's Sept 11 column "Seeing Beyond Doom" (15th anniversary of 9-11)
Jill Fandrich's August 14 column "Auburn Youth Reflect on Triennium"
Patrick Heery's July 17 column "Where is God in times of violence?"
Jill Fandrich's June 19 column "Ordinary Time"
Patrick Heery's May 15 column "Why I Have Come to Auburn"
Jilll Fandrich's April 24 column "Church Doors Open Out,"
Dwain Lee's March 27 column "Saying Goodbye to Westminster."
Church App!
Check out Westminster's “app” to access events, calendar information, photos, lectionary readings, Facebook and Twitter posts, and more on your smartphone or tablet. To get the church app, search for Church Link App in the App Store on your phone or tablet. Download the app (it’s free!), and then search for Westminster by zip code 13021.
LGBTQ+ Support
The Q Center/ACR Health is partnering with Westminster Presbyterian Church to bring their support services to Cayuga County. The Q Center is in Auburn every 2nd and 4th Monday from 3pm – 7pm. There is also a parent group on the 4th Monday from 5pm -7pm. Snacks, games, fun and a dinner are provided. The Q Center is a reputable organization with experience counseling the LGBTQ+ youth population. These facilitated support groups are potentially life saving services that, up until now, have not been provided in Cayuga County. Have additional questions? Call the Q Center at (315) 475-2430 or email qcentercny@acrhealth.org.
Wednesday Noon Study
This fall, you have the chance to go deeper in your spiritual journey, every Wednesday. The Wednesday-noon conversation and Bible study group meets in the conference room of the Education Building. Join us over your lunch hour as we talk about how Scripture and faith relate to our everyday living and current events. Feel free to brown bag your lunch. In September, we will begin a series on Jesus' parables—those mysterious teachings that are so central to our faith, so memorable, so life-changing, and yet so hard to understand. We'll discuss individual parables and explore their historical, literary, theological, and socio-political dimensions and various meanings. We'll also learn about different theories on how we should interpret, relate to, and live out Jesus' parables.
Interested in membership?
If you are interested in learning more about what it means to be Presbyterian and how to become a member of Westminster Church, this is the time to learn more! There will be two adult forums October 14 and 21 for everyone interested in brushing up on polity, discuss what it means to live in grace, and discover how you have been called to practice your faith. The forums are open to everyone. Talk to Pastor Patrick or Linda MacKay (chair of the Membership/Evangelism Committee) if you have questions.
Notice of Congregational Meeting
There will be a brief congregational meeting at the end of worship Sunday morning October 14, 2018, to hear the report of the Nominating Committee and to elect elders and deacons for the Class of 2021, and at-large members of the church nominating committee for 2019.
Elder Care Conversation Circle
Are you concerned that your parents aren’t safe in their home anymore?
Are you overwhelmed with helping with meals, medicines, hygiene, appointments?
Are you confused about the services available to help you help them?
Are you “parenting your parents”?
Come talk with others who are on this same journey at the Elder Care Conversation Circle, which meets on the last Tuesday of each month for conversation, sharing, and support. The Elder Care Conversation Circle meets September 25, October 30 (with presentation on "tips of the trade" for safely helping seniors with transfers, movement, etc), November 27, and December 18 at 7pm in the social room of Westminster Church. Sessions include general sharing and listening, and occasional outside speakers on topics of concern to the group.
Property Work Day
Our hard working Property Committee holds monthly work days on the third Saturday of each month, starting at 9am. There are tasks for all skill levels, and the Property Committee would love to have you join them Saturday October 20! Talk to Robyn Warn if you'd like more information.
Children's Worship Center
The Children's Worship Center offers an age appropriate worship experience for children ages 3 years old through grade 2, based on the Montessori model. Children learn to experience God's presence through hearing Bible stories and responding to them. Storyteller Noel Lardeo and a trained greeter welcome children to this unique space every Sunday morning following the pastor's time with children in the sanctuary. The Worship Center is located right outside the sanctuary doors.
Sunday School
Children in grades K through 3, and 4 through 7 meets in the new REACH wing following worship and fellowship. The former nursery school rooms have been transformed into new rooms for our children and youth. Chris Patch teaches the older youth, and Andrea and Aaron Creighton teach the younger children, using a new curriculum called "Spark!" Chelsea and Elena provide childcare for infants and toddlers during the education hour in the new toddler room of the REACH wing. In keeping with our Child Safety Policy, there will be at least two adults present at all times with the children. The Sunday morning classes are off to a fresh start, with new leadership, new resources, and a new location; the kids are in store for a great year!
Meet Chris Patch!
Christopher Patch is our new Children and Youth Ministry Coordinator. He says, “I am very excited to begin serving in this newly created position. My wife Kim and I moved to Auburn along with our three daughters a little over 11 years ago from the Binghamton area. We began attending Westminster about a year and a half ago and officially became members recently. We knew, however, from the very first service we attended that we had found a new church home and family. Professionally, I have worked as a restaurant manager and chef, but since moving to Auburn I have primarily worked in education and project management. Educationally, I have a Masters degree in Theology from Northeastern Seminary in Rochester. I have also led many formal and informal small groups and workshops for both adults and youth. My goal is to help create new opportunities for the children and youth of Westminster that offer fellowship, spiritual growth, and theological education. I look forward to serving the children and youth in our congregation, as well as their parents in anyway I can be of assistance.”
Coat Tree
As fall weather arrives, the need increases for warm outerwear for many people in Auburn. Westminster has a coat rack in the education building offering coats, gloves, hats, and scarves free to walk-ins. If you have any gently used cold weather items to donate to this local mission, please bring them in to the church office. They will be put to good use and will be much appreciated.
Harvest Dinner and Baby Shower
Westminster's fall Harvest Dinner will be Saturday, October 27, starting at 5pm in the Great Hall. Bring a dish to pass; cake and beverages will be provided. The evening will also include a baby shower for Patrick and Jenna's little pumpkin Emerson! If you'd like to contribute to a gift, see Linda MacKay for ideas.
Loose Change Offerings
The loose change in the offering plates is designated toward a special cause each month. In October, they support the church's Thanksgiving Basket Project, which provides complete Thanksgiving meals to families through the Calvary Food Pantry. The value of one meal is $38. Contributions can be for all or part of the cost.
Children and Worship
All ages are welcome in worship, and we also provide options for young children in nearby locations to the sanctuary. Older children (grade 3 and up) worship with their families in the sanctuary; there are lectionary-related worksheets, books, and other resources available at the back of the sanctuary to engage children in worship. Elena Thomas and Chelsea Cater provide loving care for infants and toddlers in the social room. We also have a Baby Corner in the sanctuary with rocking chairs to provide a cozy spot for parents to cuddle with their infants and be in worship together.
Contemplative hike October 27
Join us for a time of renewal in the beauty of God's creation as we reconnect, in prayerful silence and conversation, with our spirits and the Spirit of our Maker. On Saturday, October 27, from 10am to 12pm, we will take a special All-Saints-themed hike at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn. We will walk in memory of loved ones who have died and joined that great communion of saints (whom we will remember and celebrate in worship on November 4). As the name suggests, Fort Hill does involve some steep incline. Please speak with Patrick in advance (pastor@westminsterauburn.org, 315-253-3331). Detailed information will then be provided.
Veterans Day Worship
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Armistice which ended the fighting of World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Westminster will hold a special Veterans Day worship service on Sunday, November 11 at 9:30am, honoring all veterans and sending a message of hope for peace in our time. The church bells will ring at 11am, and we invite other area churches, government buildings, and organizations to toll their bells at 11am as well, as part of the nationwide Bells of Peace movement.
Westminster Nursery School Closes
It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Westminster Nursery School, due to decreased enrollment. This was not an easy decision for the Westminster Nursery School Board, but was necessary due to financial reasons. This decision was made in full appreciation of the long history of Westminster Nursery School, its impact on the community, the great work and loving devotion of the staff, and the responsibility of the board to fulfill its duties and responsibilities. A full explanation can be read here in the letter that was sent to Westminster members in July. You can also read about the September 30 special worship service which celebrated the school's legacy: A New Thing: Westminster Nursery School Remembered
Traffic and Parking
Construction proceeds on the new regional welcome center which is being built across the street from the church. The city has created a 4-way stop intersection, traffic pattern, and pedestrian walkways in front of the church to make vehicular and pedestrian traffic safer. Please be aware of the changes around the church. To ease traffic congestion on weekdays, enter the church parking lot from Court Street and exit onto William Street. You can turn right or left from the exit, but cannot go straight while Lincoln Street is closed for the duration of the construction. Church members may use the church parking lot during the week when attending a church program or on church business. Permits are available from Melanie.
Citizen Column
Westminster is featured in a monthly column in the Auburn Citizen. Here are:
Patrick Heery's October 7 column: "How paternity leave made me a better father"
Jill Fandrich's Sept 9 column: "How storytelling helps us believe"
Jill Fandrich's August 12 column: "The good side of evangelism"
Jill Fandrich's July 15 column: "The Radical history of Sunday School"
Patrick Heery's June 17 column: "What would Jesus say about school shootings?"
Jill Fandrich's May 20 column: "How families can pass faith on to children"
Patrick Heery's April 22 column "When God calls your name"
Jill Fandrich's March 25 column "Telling the Holy Week stories to children"
Patrick Heery's Feb 25 column "Lent: The time is now"
Jill Fandrich's Jan 28 column "Westminster grant supports show based on neo-Nazi rally"
Audrey McNally's Dec 31 column "How sacred music has shaped my faith"
Patrick Heery's Dec 3 column "Where you'll find God this Christmas Eve"
Jill Fandrich's Nov 5 column "What comes after 'thoughts and prayers'?"
Patrick Heery's October 15 column "Finding the strength to fix our democracy"
Jill Fandrich's September 10 column "Church starting new caregivers group"
Patrick Heery's August 13 column "New Hiking Ministry Offers Renewal"
Jill Fandrich's July 16 column "The Redefinition of Missionaries"
Patrick Heery's June 18 column "Sabbath: a bus pass to paradise"
Patrick Heery's May 21 column "How does a pastor grieve?"
Jill Fandrich's April 23 column "The Gospel According to Flatland"
Audrey McNally's March 26 column "Discovering the Psalms"
Patrick Heery's Feb 26 column "Lenten Journey: Death and Beyond"
Jill Fandrich's Jan 29 column "Are We Ready For Another Reformation?"
Patrick Heery's Jan 1 column "When the Holidays Hurt"
Jill Fandrich's Dec 4 column "Need for Community and Conversation"
Annette Bell's Nov 6 column "Saints Among Us"
Patrick Heery's Oct 9 column "Does Auburn need a hero? No, it needs you"
Patrick Heery's Sept 11 column "Seeing Beyond Doom" (15th anniversary of 9-11)
Jill Fandrich's August 14 column "Auburn Youth Reflect on Triennium"
Patrick Heery's July 17 column "Where is God in times of violence?"
Jill Fandrich's June 19 column "Ordinary Time"
Patrick Heery's May 15 column "Why I Have Come to Auburn"
Jilll Fandrich's April 24 column "Church Doors Open Out,"
Dwain Lee's March 27 column "Saying Goodbye to Westminster."
Church App!
Check out Westminster's “app” to access events, calendar information, photos, lectionary readings, Facebook and Twitter posts, and more on your smartphone or tablet. To get the church app, search for Church Link App in the App Store on your phone or tablet. Download the app (it’s free!), and then search for Westminster by zip code 13021.