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A place for the spirit, a place for community, a place for the arts,
a place to begin your life's journey, a place where all of God's
children are welcome, a place for you.

 


Monthly Newsletter


May 2015

Easter Sunday


Almost 300 people attended Calvary's Easter Sunday worship service. The children sang and witnessed the "Breath of Life" during the children's sermon. Calvary's Renewal Choir was joined by The South Hills Brass in performing all of the special music.

Photos - Luke Homitsky

8th Annual Race for Grace


The 8th Annual Race for Grace was held on Saturday, April 11th.This 5K & 1 mile walk benefited the Reflections Of Grace Foundation. Race For Grace and its beneficiary Foundation are named after Grace Elizabeth Ekis, a precious 5-year-old who lost her courageous 13-month battle with a rare cancerous brain tumor on Valentine’s Day 2008. Grace’s cancer was a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a tumor of the brainstem for which there is no known cure and there have been no advances in treatment options for more than 35 years. Grace's family are members of Calvary UMC.

Video from WPXI
Video from WTAE

The below pictures were taken by Tom Funk, Grace's uncle.

 

WPAUMC Sandy Relief VIM Team to New York City


This team is going to work alongside communities in Brooklyn and Long Island who are still trying to find healing and hope after Super Storm Sandy. This group will be offering a sign of God's continued presence in Brooklyn through light construction tasks on local homes referred thru disaster case managers. We will stay as a group in empty homes or church space and cook our own meals. Volunteers age 14 and up are welcome and estimated cost is $300. Contact Rev. Stephanie Gottschalk at revgottschalk@gmail.com for further information. You can print the below application (right click on the application picture, choose "Save picture as..." from the drop-down menu, then print the saved picture) then mail it to Calvary UMC or drop off at the church office during office hours. You can also get a copy from Jaime in the church office. See church address and hours in the footer of the newsletter.

"Let There Be Light" Campaign


Calvary recently enhanced the lighting in the Sanctuary, Chapel, and Vestibule. For the first time in almost 120 years we are able to see the spectacular detail of the ceiling in our beautifully unique church. The historical fixtures remain the same, but the interior wiring, sockets, and light bulbs were replaced. The new light bulbs will last anywhere from 15-20 years instead of a few months which is how often they needed to be replaced before. This project allows for better illumination of our beautiful church as well as lowered utility costs.

The total cost of this project was $26,000. We are currently having a campaign to raise money to cover the cost of this project. An anonymous donor has offered to match every dollar donated up to $13,000. A little over $4,000 has been raised to date, but we still have $9,000 to go. If you would like to donate to this campaign, please indicate “Lighting” on an offering envelope during Sunday morning worship.


BEFORE - A picture from before the lighting was updated. This picture was taken while it was light outside.

AFTER - The following pictures were taken on Easter Sunday. This is after the lighting was updated.

Grace Notes from Palestine and Israel
...A Morning of Sharing


Saturday, May 16th from 10:00am-1:00pm
St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Pittsburgh



What Will We Learn?
The morning will be spent listening to Grace Killian share stories and accounts of the past 18 months. You will gain a better understanding of what is at stake for the people of Palestine and Israel. Grace Killian and Tina Whitehead will reflect on the relations among the Christians, Jews, and Muslims who share the Holy Land. Their perspective will help you move beyond the common assumptions and media misinformation to understand the reality on the ground. There will be a chance to ask questions and to experience the flavors of Palestine at the luncheon meal.

What's Happening?
9:30-10:00am - Registration
10:00-10:15am - Devotions
10:15-11:15am - Grace Notes Panel
11:15am-12:00pm - Panel Discussion
12:10-1:00pm - Lunch with Q and A


Featured Speakers - Grace Killian & Tina Whitehead

Grace Killian is a member of the Mt. Lebanon United Methodist Church. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies and Music from Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts. Grace is a mission intern with the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church, working with the Wi'am Palestine Conflict Resolution Center in Bethlehen, Israel/Palestine. The Wi'am Palestine Conflict Resolution Center was established in 1995 to help resolve disputes with the Palestinian community in the Bethlehem area through the traditional Arab for of mediation, known as Sulha. "Wi'am" in Arabic means "cordial relationships". Grace engages in English-language interpretation of the center's work and the situation of the regional Palestinian communities. One of her many successes has been the way she has connected our Unstoppable Women with ten women in Israel via Skype and email. The young women have been able to get to know each other in ways we never thought possible. Come and hear her share her story.

As a WPA Conference Missionare, Tina Whitehead lives in Jerusalem for part of the year. She comes "home" to WPA only when her visa runs out! Tina's historical perspective and depp commitment add intensity to her story as she shares everyday life with us.


$10.00 Registration Fee - Please see Myles or Joan Bradley for a registration form
.

Call for Church Parking Assistants


A Message from Tammy Phillips

Greetings Calvary UMC folks from Tammy Phillips! Allow me to put a call out to anyone who is interested in assisting with the parking at the church during special events. You could either assist in the planning of the parking or you could actually help direct cars to the parking lots during the special events. To give you an idea of how often parking help is needed, here is a list of known and potential special events:
  • Sunday 1:00pm Steeler game days (5-6 Sundays per year)
  • Sunday 4:00pm Tiffany Concerts (3-4 Sundays per year)
  • Victorian House Tour (held on a Friday night and all day on one Saturday in December)
  • Messiah Concert (one-time event held yearly at 4:00pm on a Saturday or Sunday in December)
  • Christmas Eve Service (one-time event held yearly at 7:00pm)
  • Weddings, funerals, and other special events (if there are more than 150 attendees, parking help is needed)
If you are interested, please contact me, Tammy Phillips, at 412.487.2234 (home) or 412.961.1908 (cell) or email me at TMPhillips1966@gmail.com. Thanks!!

New Visibility to the Church Calendar


Everyone now has access to the entire Church Calendar. A button has been added at the end of the Church Calendar section that will open a new window to display the Calendar. This calendar will allow you to view entries by the day, week, or month. There are 3 types of calendar entries that have been color coded: Event - Blue, Service - Green, or Meeting - Orange. When you click on a calendar entry all of the information for that event, service, or meeting with appear as a pop-up window until you click anywhere else on the screen. This is a read-only calendar. If you see something that is incorrect, please notify Karen Ferguson (724.448.1429 or karen.ferguson.15202@gmail.com) and she will correct it as soon as possible. The button below is just like the one that will appear at the end of the Calendar section in each newsletter.
 
Church Calendar

Sunday School Corner


Sunday School Corner is the segment of the monthly newsletter that allows everyone to see what goes on in Sunday School at Calvary: the lessons the children are learning, the bible verses they are memorizing, the activities they are participating in, and the special relationships they are forming with the other children in Calvary's congregation. Sunday School may be the most important education young children receive and benefits us all throughout our adult lives.

Sunday, March 29th, 2015

Lesson
Cloaks and Palms

As you see we did multiple things on Palm Sunday. Everything from a narrated story that went along with Cloaks & Palms game to Palm Sunday word search. We also made palm crosses from actual palm leaves with the assistance of Jaime. Our class made extra not only to hand out to our family but to be passed to Rev. Ellie Law for our shut in members.


Sunday, April 12th, 2015

Lesson
The Ascension

Bible Verse
Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven.
- Luke 24:51


Watercolor by Marrissa


Sunday, April 19th, 2015

Lesson
Jesus wakes Lazarus from the dead.

Bible Verse
Jesus said, "I I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, through he may die, he shall live.
- John 11:25


In between the children's coloring pages and word find, the children made a few tombs of Lazarus using styrofoam cups and a peanut wrapped in grave clothes to represent Lazarus. He was then placed in one of the cups with crinkled up paper as the rock in front of the tomb. Quickly mix up the cups and ask which cup Lazarus might be in, flip the cup and say, "Lazarus, come out!"

The children were encouraged to take their game home and tell their friends and family about how Jesus wakes Lazarus from the dead.


Sunday, April 26th, 2015

Lesson
In the Wilderness

Bible Verse
For God satisfies the thirsty and hungry he fills with good things.
- Psalms 107:9


God sent quails to the camp for the Hebrew people to eat. We made quail headbands to wear as we played a matching game. The game consisted of items that Moses and the Hebrew people would have encountered in the wilderness.
News & Announcements

Calvary Prayer Line

Rev. Ellie Laws will be starting a prayer line. If you are interested in joining please sign-up on the prayer card located in the backs of the pews then place in the offering plate. Please see Rev. Ellie for further information or with questions.

 

Want to be part of the Welcome Team?

Want to be part of the Welcome Team? Come meet us in the Sanctuary at 10:15am any Sunday in May or call Kenny at 724-747-7467.

 

2015 Church Directory

The 2015 Calvary UMC Church Directory is now available for pickup. We only ask that a $5.00 donation be given for each book to cover printing costs. Please see Karen Ferguson either before or after Sunday Morning Worship. If you have any questions, she can be reached on her cell at 724.448.1429 or by email at karen.ferguson.15202@gmail.com.

 

Ugly Quilt Project (Sleeping Bags)

The sleeping bag project will continue sometime this Fall, and will meet at Calvary instead of New Hope UMC. We haven't decided when we will be meeting; we will let you know!

 

"Feed the Sheep" Fellowship Luncheons

Sponsors are needed for upcoming months. If you would like to sponsor a fellowship luncheon or volunteer to help in the kitchen please see Doug Lucas or Mike Schnitgen. The cost of sponsorship is $70.00. This cost can be sponsored by one person or family, or a group of people.

 

The Daily Bread

Calvary Sponsors The Daily Bread at New Hope every 2nd Thursday of each and every month. If you are interested in helping physically or financially please let us know. It can be a group project or an individual donation of time; we are always looking for help. If you are interested in helping please call Audrey Jennings at 412.335.3559 or email her at audreyjennings037@yahoo.com.

 

Used T-Shirts Needed at Martin Luther King School

Our neighbors at Martin Luther King School have asked us to collect used t-shirts that can be used when students come wearing inappropriate clothing. Having a supply of t-shirts will mean that the students will not be sent home, but will be able to continue with their classes. All sizes of t-shirts are needed for both boys and girls.



Calvary UMC Newsletter

The Calvary UMC Newsletter is distributed twice a month. The first, more detailed, newsletter is sent out at the beginning of each month. The second newsletter will contain only important Church News, the Church Calendar, and Prayer Requests. This second, abridged newsletter is sent out around the middle of each month. Print copies of the monthly newsletters are also available in the Chapel on the table near Rev. Larry’s office. If you have something that you would like to be highlighted or printed in an upcoming newsletter please see Karen Ferguson or email her at karen.ferguson.15202@gmail.com.
Small Groups

Sundays


Holy Book Club
Sunday Mornings at 9:30am

Location: Calvary UMC Parlor
Our first book of the new year is “Christianity for the Rest of Us” by Diana Butler Bass. What a delightful, encouraging, and informative book! This book not only presents ten characteristics shared by vital, progressive congregations, but it also situates these characteristics in the context of recent American religious history. Highly recommended!


Worship Team - Praise Band
Sunday Mornings at 9:30am

Location: Calvary UMC Sanctuary
The Praise Band presents two songs to open each worship service. All songs are chosen to encourage congregational singing and participation. Some tunes are based on well-known hymns with a contemporary twist, while others are original tunes by contemporary Christian artists. See Brian Burns or Karen Ferguson for more details or if you are interested in joining the Worship Team.


Alcoholics Anonymous
Sunday Nights from 6:00-8:00pm

Location: Calvary UMC Fellowship Hall


 

Mondays


Gamblers Anonymous
Every 2nd Monday of the Month from 7:00-9:00pm

Location: Calvary UMC Fellowship Hall


 

Tuesdays


Renewal Choir
Tuesday Nights from 6:15-7:30pm

Location: Calvary UMC Sanctuary
The Renewal Choir sings traditional anthems on Sunday mornings as well as supporting Calvary special events and observances. The group presents a wide variety of musical styles from September through May. Choir members actively participate in worship and may be found assisting during such times as Communion, Advent and special services. See Brian Burns for more details or if you are interested in joining.


 

Wednesdays


Adult Bible Study
Wednesday Nights at 6:30pm

Location: Calvary UMC Chapel


Iron City Square Dancing
Wednesday Nights from 7:00-9:00pm

Location: Calvary UMC Fellowship Hall
Prayer Requests

Prayers This Week

  • Joan Sturtz son, Greg Sturtz was released from Hospital this week.
  • Glenn – seeking discernment for mercy, forgiveness and fair judgment
  • Family of Dean McFall who passed away several weeks ago
  • Charles Louis Brown – possible surgery
  • Michael Joseph – third stage liver cancer
 

Continued Prayers

  • Ladadsia – health concerns
  • Robert Brown – Baldwin Center
  • David Baker, friend of a member of Calvary, is recovering in the hospital after having surgery for stage 4 stomach cancer.
  • Betty Ferguson, grandmother of Karen Ferguson, is at home recovering from pneumonia.
  • Mark Neuherz’s brother, Farrell, is at AGH. He is awake & doing better.
  • Emilie – 14 year old girl with depression
  • Dennis Joseph Huber
  • Personal request for prayers – fighting through some rough times
  • Request for prayers for a nephew that God would keep him safe.
  • Mother of Linda Sustakowski
  • Nora Jean Kruger – health concerns
  • Sister of Yvonne Hudson
  • Joyce Zimmerman – health concerns
  • Christine Thomas & family – health
  • The Drumheller Family & their daughter Tammy who suffered a stroke.
  • Beth Hanson – health & recovery
  • Jacob Wineman – health
  • Adam Balogh – 27 years old with Leukemia & Lymphoma
  • Truddie Burke – Manor Care
  • Melvin Branch – health
  • Ida’s daughter – cancer
  • Marci Deutsch – rehab & recovery
  • Shirley Mehring's sister, Barbara, continues to improve
  • Clark Family – Renny’s nephew, Greg, is recovering at home.
  • Rose B. – injuries from fall
  • Donna & her son, Mark – health concerns
  • Michael Snell – health
  • Richie Family – health & heart
  • Daores Skena – health
  • Patty Brown – health & COPD
  • Zeek Thomas's brother, Charlie – health & COPD
  • Kenny Branch – health & heart
  • Family & Friends of Calvary UMC
  • All ministries of Calvary UMC
  • Remember Light of Life
  • Military personnel & their families
  • Protection for Firefighters & Police Officers
  • Families that have suffered from shooting violence
 

Missionaries

  • Steve & Gail Quigg – Aviation missions to the Congo
  • Tina Whitehead – Jerusalem
 

World Community

  • World Leaders, President, Congress
  • Places of conflict around the world


Let us know how we can pray for you.
Please contact Rev. Ellie Laws by emailing the Calvary UMC church office at calvaryumcpgh@gmail.com or by calling 412.231.2007.
Church Calendar

Weekly


Sunday Morning Worship
Sunday Mornings at 11:00am

Sunday School is offered for children. Fellowship with a light lunch follows worship every Sunday. Communion is held the first Sunday of each month. Everyone is welcome at Calvary's table.


 

May


Mother's Day
Sunday, May 10th


Grace Notes from Palestine and Israel...A Morning of Sharing
Saturday, May 16th from 10:00am-1:00pm
Location: St. Paul's United Methodist Church
Cost: $10.00 Registration Fee - Please see Myles or Joan Bradley for a registration form.
The morning will be spent listening to Grace Killian share stories and accounts of the past 18 months. You will gain a better understanding of what is at stake for the people of Palestine and Israel. Grace Killian and Tina Whitehead will reflect on the relations among the Christians, Jews, and Muslims who share the Holy Land. Their perspective will help you move beyond the common assumptions and media misinformation to understand the reality on the ground. There will be a chance to ask questions and to experience the flavors of Palestine at the luncheon meal.


Pentecost
Sunday, May 24th


Bi-Monthly Committee Meeting - Pending (Keep alert for further updates)
Thursday, May 28th at 6:00pm
Location: Calvary UMC Chapel
Dinner is served at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm. If you are a member of a committee please plan to attend.


 

June


3rd Annual Circle of Faith
Sunday, June 7th at 2:00pm

Location: Under the tent at Schenley Plaza, across the street from the Cathedral of Learning
Circle of Faith is... A public witness to welcome and inclusion for LGBTQIA persons, their families and allies by varied faith communities. For all who believe God’s love is inclusive and that all are welcome into the “family circle” that their faith communities offer. Please save the date of June 7th for an hour or so in the afternoon as we hope you can join the growing number of representatives from diverse faith communities who take part.

Opera Theater SummerFest Workshop
Sunday, June 14th at 2:00pm

Location: To Be Determined
Poets Corner presents From Rachel Carson's Silent Spring to a World Premiere: Opera Theater SummerFest workshop of "A New Kind of Fallout". Details to come!

Father's Day
Sunday, June 21st


Bi-Monthly Church Council Meeting
Thursday, June 25th at 6:00pm
Location: Calvary UMC Chapel

Dinner is served at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm.

 

July


Joint Western PA Mission Team to New York
Week of July 19th-25th
Location: Brooklyn & Long Island, New York

This team is going to work alongside communities in Brooklyn and Long Island who are still trying to find healing and hope after Super Storm Sandy. This group will be offering a sign of God's continued presence in Brooklyn through light construction tasks on local homes referred thru disaster case managers. We will stay as a group in empty homes or church space and cook our own meals. Volunteers age 14 and up are welcome and estimated cost is $300. Contact Rev. Stephanie Gottschalk at revgottschalk@gmail.com for further information or get the application from Jaime in the church office.

Bi-Monthly Committee Meeting
Thursday, July 23rd at 6:00pm
Location: Calvary UMC Chapel

Dinner is served at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm. If you are a member of a committee please plan to attend.

 

August


Vacation Bible School
August 10th, 11th, 12th (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday)

Location: Calvary UMC


Bi-Monthly Church Council Meeting
Thursday, August 27th at 6:00pm
Location: Calvary UMC Chapel

Dinner is served at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm.

 

September


Bi-Monthly Committee Meeting
Thursday, September 24th at 6:00pm
Location: Calvary UMC Chapel

Dinner is served at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm. If you are a member of a committee please plan to attend.

 

October


Bi-Monthly Church Council Meeting
Thursday, October 22nd at 6:00pm
Location: Calvary UMC Chapel

Dinner is served at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm.

 

November


Fall Family Festival
Details to be announced at a later date.

Bi-Monthly Committee Meeting
Date: To Be Determined
Location: Calvary UMC Chapel

Dinner is served at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm. If you are a member of a committee please plan to attend.

 

December


5th Annual Handel's Messiah Sing-Along Concert
Saturday, December 5th at 4:00pm
Location: Calvary UMC Sanctuary

Children's Christmas Party
Details to be announced at a later date.

Bi-Monthly Church Council Meeting
Date: To Be Determined
Location: Calvary UMC Chapel
Dinner is served at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm.

Candlelight Christmas Eve
Thursday, December 24th

Location: Calvary UMC Sanctuary
7:00pm: Music
7:30pm: Service


 

View the Entire Church Calendar

This is a read-only calendar. If you see something that is incorrect, please notify Karen Ferguson (724.448.1429 or karen.ferguson.15202@gmail.com) and she will correct it as soon as possible.
 
Church Calendar
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