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Located in southwestern Ohio
near Hillsboro, Ohio in Highland County on Careytown Road
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Located in southwestern Ohio
near Hillsboro, Ohio in Highland County on Careytown Road
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1- Pastoral message 2-
Church history 3- Church family
images 4- Church information 5-
Guest book
6- Bulletin Board
7- Picture Archives
8- Previous pastoral messages 9- Lora Williams poem
of the month
Pastoral Message no, 18 by Pastor Mary Cyrus
Well, September begins the fall season. County Fair is over. Fall is always a busy time in the UMC. Nomination committee meetings, Pastor Parish relations committee, Charge Conference in November- in Portsmouth. Pastor and Laity training with Charge conference. The business of the church always keeps us busy.
We have had a summer of activity and blessing. We just celebrated the new rooms with Auburn UMC. The Hallelujah Party on October 31st for youth and all will be coming up. The harvest dinner that Highland UMC provides will be a time to share again.
Look around to all the ministry opportunity that we have. We
are truly blessed. As fall comes, we see harvesting and bounty around
us. Let us see the bounty of the harvest for us to experience.
--
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
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Lora Williams is our congregational poet; she has written many poems and I will be posting some here on a regular basis.
NOVEMBER
The leaves are falling from the trees
For once again it is November.
The colorful leaves exhibit such beauty
We see God's work in all its splendor.
The air is getting much crisper now
And we will soon see flakes of snow;
So let us enjoy this autumn season
And the blessings that God has bestowed.
The seasons come and seasons go,
But the good Lord is always near
To bless us and keep us safe
Until the next season will appear.
Soon it will be Thanksgiving Day
And a time for us to remember
To be thankful to the good Lord above
For the blessings we receive in November.
By Lora Williams
11-1-09
Halloween Party 10-31-09
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2- W e have always considered Carrie Edwards the mother of
our church. She has worked tirelessly to keep this small church progressing.
Even though you are not able to be with us every Sunday, we feel your presence.
By Irene Woods - March 9, 1980
Auburn Chapel, a Methodist Church, was organized about 1830 and for ten years the members met in their homes for worship. The first church, a log structure, was erected just north of Fallsville in 1840 on ground which was donated by Moses and Katie Underwood Smith, who owned and resided on a farm near the proposed site. The deed was made in 1838 to Rev. Isaac Quinn, Lewis Brouse, John Holmes, Joseph Goode, and Isaac Woodmansee as the trustees in trust . John Holmes did not live to see the church finished as his death occurred In June 1839.
Burials were made on the land where the church was later constructed. Several members of the Brouse, Carey, Holmes, Chaney, Manker, Naylor, Underwood, Woodmansee, and Wright families are buried in the Auburn Cemetery. Other familiar names - Edwards, Smiths, McKibbens, Williams, and Summers are also laid to rest at Auburn Cemetery.
Many pioneer names of the county appear in the church's history. Names such as Roads, Rayburn, Medsker, Kester, Griffith, Conard, Davis, Wiggins, Stanfield, Woods, Runk, Johnson, Thornburg, Polk and many others.
The log church served the community for many years but was eventually replaced by a simple, white frame building, carpetless and with unpainted, high back, wooden seats. The pulpit at the west end was a few Inches higher than the floor. There, stood a small stand on which rested the old Bible and hymn book. In later years, a new Bible was presented to the church by Samuel Clouser of New York City, whose boyhood home was the stone house near Fallsville.
In cold weather, a huge stove occupied a place in the lone aisle in the center of the church. On each side of the building were small windows, four on the south side and three on the north side, an upper and lower sash, each containing six, eight by ten window panes. On the wall between these windows were wooden holders, undoubtedly home made, used at first for tallow candles and later for coal oil lamps. There was one front door and what seemed a wonderful advancement, a double door on the north side, much appreciated in warm weather when the sexton would open these doors. At the Quarterly Meetings or basket dinners, these doors were opened, seats arranged on the outside of the church in the shade, and the minister stood in the doorway to deliver his message.
Time passed and after fifty years, the community felt that the old house had served well but its time. It was sold and it moved to the late Henry Sanders Farm, which is now known as the Walter Clevenger Farm. There it stood until June 1975, when it was demolished.
The dedication of the present church took place on a beautiful September Sunday in 1891 with the District Presiding Elder, Rev. Runyan in charge of both the morning and afternoon services. At that time, Rev. Middleton was pastor of the charge. Spacious as the church seemed, it was filled beyond it's seating capacity by the neighborhood people and visiting members from Dunns Chapel, Russel Station, Pike Chapel, Highland, New Vienna, West Chapel, Clear Creek, and other churches.
At first there were Itinerant ministers who took over the services. Pastors serving this charge since 1896 are named in order of their serving. They are Rev. J. A. Easton 1896-1898; Rev. John Wilson 1898-1902; Rev. Hamilton 1902-1904; Rev. J. H. Lease 1904-19O7; Rev. William Lewis 1907-1910; Rev. John Troxel 1910-1912; Rev. Gilbert Austin 1912-1916; Rev. Charles Shitzback 1916-1918; Rev. Luke Davis 1918-21; Rev. Bonham 1921-22; Rev. Walter Peters 1922-1928; Rev. B. E. Wright 1928-1935; Rev. W. A. Sharpton 1935-1937; Rev. R. E. Linder 1937-1941; Rev. C. L. Wamsley 1941-1946; Rev. Betrand E. Wright 1946-1948; Rev. Bert O'Connor 1948-1950; Rev. Paul Steel 1950-1954; Rev. Harold Hugus 1954-1955 (also at this-time a student pastor, Eddie Lane); Rev. Martin Schamaun 1955-1959; Rev. Albert Kuntzman 1959-1965; John Beers, Jr. 1965-1968; Fred Cline 1968-1970; David Moody 1970-72; David Toon,1972-1979, and Terry Washburn who came in June 1979 to Auburn.
Auburn Church and Wesley Chapel were included with the New Vienna Charge and remained so until 1954 when Wesley Chapel was closed and then demolished in 1956. Auburn remained with New Vienna until 1968 when It became part of the Highland Charge which includes Highland and Memphis along with Auburn.
A homecoming and re-dedication of Auburn M. E. Church held June 26, 1938 was deemed a huge success when two-hundred and ninety persons registered . Rev. R. E. Linder, pastor of the church at that time, was In charge of the ceremonies. One former pastor, Rev. B. E. Wright of Sabina, was present and read his original poem, "The Church of Our Fathers." Visitors from West Virginia and many other Ohio cities responded, giving brief talks. Music was furnished by an orchestra of Auburn young people and Mr. Stanley Moore sang, "My Garden of Today." The Asbury Radio Quartet sang several selections. A basket dinner was served at the noon hour.
Rev. R. E. Linder was the pastor when Auburn
held it's one hundred year celebration. A pageant, entitled "The Soul and
the Soil" was presented with members of the congregation taking part. A
Dr. Rapkins was the guest speaker.
The Ladies Aid Society, later known as The Women's
Society of Christian Service, was organized in 1915 with nine charter members,
Stella Adams, Edith Medsker, Edna Smith, Bessie Summers,
Estella Carey, Mrs. Ada Breme, Nannie Edwards, Mrs.
Oats and Viola Connell. This organization was an important factor in the
social life of the church as well as an ever present help in a charitable
and financial way. In 1973, the name of this organization was changed to
the United Methodist Women.
In 1959, through the efforts of Mrs. Oscar Stanfield and the Rev. Marvin Schamaun who served the New Vienna-Auburn Charge from 1956-1959, an organ was obtained for the church. Claude Foster of Cleveland, Ohio, had been known to donate many organs to churches throughout the midwest, so they applied for one on the behalf of Auburn
The following summer, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Vance, Mr. and Mrs. Robert McKibben and the Rev. and Mrs. Albert Kuntzman drove to Cleveland to complete the transaction. The organ was delivered on Sept. 18, 1960.
On Sunday afternoon, April 30, 1961, dedication ceremonies were held and a large number attended. The service began with an organ prelude by Ralph Vance, followed by a song by Edwin Perry. Then the congregation sang the Gloria Parti. The ceremonies ended with a prayer by Rev. Kuntzman.
In 1960., the congregation embarked upon a renovating project. The interior was redecorated and during the summer the outside was painted. With only a modest income any remodeling has to be done a little at a time.
Then In 1963, probably out of a touch of old-fashion sentimentality, coupled with prudent practicality the forty plus congregation tackled the problem of the "Silent Bell." The old belfry tower of the Auburn Methodist Church, rising high above the edifice, had become so old and rickety that no one in the last twenty years had dared to ring it so it was torn down. A new framework was built and covered with siding. It had a peaked roof and opening all around to make it look something like the old one. New framing and a metal plate was put on the roof to hold the bell tower. Then in October 1963, the old church bell in a new cupola went into place on top of the church. Now, the pealing of the bell atop Auburn Methodist Church sends not only a summons to its faithful, but may will find an echo in the hearts of all who have paused at the church by the side of the road.
During the summer months of 1975, Rev. David Toon began and early Outdoor Worship Service on Sunday mornings beginning at eight o'clock. This proved to be very popular with the congregation as many came that would not otherwise attend a service.
A speaker system was used and the people who had come to worship remained in their cars and Rev. Toon stood on the driveway to the Cemetery just inside the gates to deliver his sermon. The last such service was conducted by him in the Fall of 1978.
Here at Auburn, in the beginning of the 1980's, there are descendants of the earlier founders and members carrying on the loving traditions began so many years ago by these dedicated people.
Irene Woods - 1980
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1- This picture depicts Carrie Edwards, our church secretary for many years, passing the torch to Ed Bates who will take over the duties as church secretary. Carrie has held this position for many years and we consider her our church mother. Her dedication has kept this church going for all these many years and we thank you so very much, Carrie.
2- Eleanor McKibben at the organ, and Georgia Vance at the piano has furnished us church music for many years and it just would not be the same without them. I am sure they are planning to continue this effort for many more years.
3- Kim is our volunteer custodian and we really appreciate Kim and her efforts.
4- Barbara Bates conducts a Sunday School class for the young ones during our church service. She has been doing this for some time and I marvel at her ability to conduct this Sunday school. Jessica, just to her left, has volunteered to help her with these chores.
5- Just before the main service, Pastor Mary has the young ones come down front and delivers an appropriate message.
6- Rosemary is an accomplished organist and is always willing to share her talents.
7- Robin has volunteered to be a helper to Georgia in playing the
piano at the morning service. We appreciate Robin and enjoy her playing.
Notices
and other church information
Auburn UMC Worship 9:00am
Highland UMC Sunday School at 10:00 and Worship at
1100am
Charge Bible Study Housed @ Highland UMC 7:00pm Thursday
United Methodist Women meetings for Auburn UMC
is the first Wed. of each month.
United Methodist Women meetings for Highland UMC are
the 3rd Wednesday, monthly
Web
Master George L Shaffer, click here to email me
you are number
to visit.
Please
sign our guest book
1- Greetings in Christ Jesus, who is our Savior, our redeemer, who makes us whole! I hope that you are well. Be encouraged and continuing edifying one another. Continuing Loving one another as we minister together and continue "To know Christ and to Make Him known!"
As I think back to my first tugs at my heart to answer the call into ministry; God spoke to me through 1 Corinthians 13, the love chapter. We all have gifts that were given to us by our Creator God. But, according to that scripture if we don't give and have love-agape in us- then it's all for naught. Now, that doesn't mean that good things can't happen, like when a philanthropist-who isn't a believer-is the giver. What that means is that God cannot recieve the FULL GLORY from it. Worship of Our Creator God is our first job or priority as believers. As we worship, if Agape-love isn't present- then we cheat God! He cannot receive the fullness and pour down the fullness of the blessing that He desires to pour out upon us. And I , for one , want to be the best that I can be for my Savior- desiring all the blessings that God will pour out onto me. And I want that for you all-his flock, also.
Verse 13 in 1 Corinthians chapter 13 tells us faith and hope are necessary or important to our walk, but the greatest it love!
I close, with a quote from a song lyric that those four "apostles" Paul, John, Ringo, and George that 'All You Need Is Love'! So, go in love with each other.
Walk in Christ's Shadow,
Pastor Mary
As we read these, may we truly be thankful to Our Creator
God for all
his blessings He bestowed through out the year.
1. We come to join in the banquet of love. Let
it open our hearts and
break down the fears that keep us from loving each
other.
~sung by the Dominican nuns
2. Give me a good digestion, Lord, and also something
to digest;
Give me a healthy body, Lord, and sense to keep it
at its best.
Give me a healthy mind, good Lord, to keep the good
and pure in sight;
Which, seeing, sin, is not appalled, but finds a way
to set it right.
Give me a mind that is not bound, that does not whimper,
whine or sigh.
Don't let me worry overmuch about the fussy thing
called "I."
Give me a sense of humor, Lord; give me the grace
to see a joke,
To get some happiness from life and pass it on to
other folk.
~Thomas H. B. Webb
3. Be present at our table, Lord.
Be here and everywhere adored.
Thy creatures bless and grant that we
May feast in paradise with Thee.
~John Cennick
4. ** A Hebrew Blessing **
Blessed are You, O Lord our God, Eternal King,
Who feeds the whole world with Your goodness,
With grace, with loving kindness, and with tender
mercy.
You give food to all flesh,
For Your loving kindness endures forever.
Through Your great goodness, food has never failed
us.
O may it not fail us forever, for Your name's sake,
Since You nourish and sustain all living things,
And do good to all,
And provide food for all Your creatures
Whom You have created.
Blesses are You, O Lord, Who gives food to all.
5. For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
6. ** Aztec Prayer (from the 1500's) **
Lord most giving and resourceful,
I implore you;
make it your will
that this people enjoy
the goods and riches you naturally give,
that naturally issue from you,
that are pleasing and savory,
that delight and comfort,
though lasting but briefly,
passing away as if in a dream.
7. Heavenly Father, bless us,
And keep us all alive;
There's ten of us for dinner
And not enough for five.
8. Our Father in Heaven, we give thanks for the
pleasure of gathering
together for this occasion. We give thanks for
life, the freedom to
enjoy it all, and all other blessings. As we
partake of this food, we
pray for health and strength to carry on and try to
live as You would
have us. This we ask in the name of Christ Our
Heavenly Father.
~Harry Jewell, mid-1900's
9. Bless this food and us that eats it.
~Cowboy grace
10. ** Iroquois Prayer from the 1800's **
We return thanks to our mother, the earth, which sustains
us. We
return thanks to the rivers and streams, which supply
us with water.
We return thanks to all herbs, which furnish medicines
for the cure of
our diseases. WE return thanks to the corn, and to
her sisters, the
beans and squash, which give us life. We return
thanks to the bushes
and trees, which provide us with fruit. We return
thanks to the wind,
which, moving the air, has banished diseases.
We return thanks to the
moon and the stars, which have given us their light
when the sun was
gone. We return thanks to our grandfather He-no,
that he has
protected his grandchildren from witches and reptiles,
and has given
to us his rain. We return thanks to the sun,
that he has looked upon
the earth with a beneficent eye. Lastly, we
return thanks to the
Great Spirit, in whom is embodied all goodness, and
who directs all
things for the good of his children.
11. When turkey's on the table laid,
And good things I may
scan,
I'm thankful that I wasn't made
A vegetarian.
~Edgar A. Guest
12. Give us this day our daily bread, O
Father in heaven, and grant
that we who are filled with good things from Your
open hand, may never
close our hearts to the hungry, the homeless, and
the poor; in the
name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Spirit.
~from the abbey of New Clairvaux, Viña, California
13. Though our mouths were full of song as the
sea, and our tongues
of exultation as the multitude of its waves,
and our lips of praise as the wide-extended firmament;
though our eyes shone with light like the sun and
the moon,
and our hands were spread forth like the eagles of
heaven,
and our feet were swift as hinds,
we should still be unable to thank thee and bless
thy name,
O Lord our God and God of our fathers,
for one thousandth or one ten thousandth part of the
bounties which
thou has bestowed upon our fathers and upon us.
~from the Hebrew Prayer Book
~ Psalm 100 ~
Call out to the Almighty
Everyone on earth!
Serve God with gladness.
Come before Him with joyous song!
Know that the Almighty, He is God.
It is He who made us and we are His,
His nation and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving.
Enter His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him, bless His name.
The Almighty is good.
His loving-kindness endures forever.
And His faithfulness continues
From generation to generation.
~ Moravian Blessing ~
Come, Lord Jesus, our guest to be
And bless these gifts
Bestowed by Thee.
And bless our loved ones everywhere,
And keep them in Your loving care.
(contributed by Sherrill Crater)
Only on Thanksgiving day do we bless the turkey;
To God we are thankful for that bird.
(for normally the "turkey" is a "nerd").
May our hearts be lifted up as our bellies fill.
May our lives continue to show
Love for God, family and country still.
Especially today, we pray,
God Bless the USA.
Walk in Christ Shadow, Pastor Mary
3- Summer is waning
away. Of Course, it may not feel like it yet. The humidity and heat
are still around. But, as you drive the highways and by ways you
see the signs, some of the corn is turning...leaves are turning...the visual
signs of the change of the seasons are upon
us. Soon, the crispness
of the autumn nights, the smells, pumpkin sitings will be here.
As Summer prepares for a change. We Can take a lesson from God here as we look at the natural surroundings. Change isn't always easy; but, it is necessary. We haven't lived in horse and buggy days for quite awhile.
We know God doesn't change! However, when He sent His Son , Jesus, to earth He transformed the World, Changed the World. So, naturally when we accept Him into our hearts, change/transformation will come. We can fight it. We may not like change as humans. or we can embrace it with blessing. It's our choice.
I was listening to another pastor teach this week about how God placed a seed in "Adam" that would make him be disobedient to God. That seed is Choice. We make choices daily. God is a pro-choice God, so to speak.
How will you choose to spend your day? What will you wear? Will you change? All of these deep thought provoking questions as self-examination prevails in the season.
-- Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
Presents wrapped and labeled
And placed beneath the tree;
Children watch and wonder
What they may receive.
People running here and there
With little time to share;
Many have forgotten
Why Christmas time is there.
So many things to purchase,
So many things to do;
Have you stopped to think
What Christmas means to you?
For some it just means money
And how much they can make;
To others, just a ritual,
A game of give and take.
Christmas is more than this,
A time we all should share;
God's son sent down to us,
Our sins for him to bear.
The love that he has shown,
The gift that he has given;
Should shine above all else,
At every Christmas season.
~ Author Unknown~
-Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
noun
1. a divine manifestation
2. twelve days after Christmas; celebrates the visit
of the three wise men to the infant Jesus
We have just been celebrating as a church Advent Season. The next
weeks are Epiphany Season. These last until Lent/Ash Wedneday.
We have probably heard the word epiphany used in our times.
Like to mean a pinnacle idea! excitment goes hand in hand with it.
So, in the next weeks we can mediate on the the travels of those
Wise men from the east and how they followed the star and found Him and
immediately, bowed and gave gifts. However, when they left. They were transformed.
they left by another way. (because of Herod)
So, as you reflect on this, Like the Wise men, did you follow something? Did you Search? Did you find Jesus? Did you bring Him the Gift of yourself? Now, it doesn't end there...does it? You like the wise Men, were changed...when you bowed and left your gifts you had to leave another way also.
------------------------------------------------
Second Message
Wise Men Still Seek Him!
"The fear of the LORD
Is the beginning of wisdom"
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem
of Judea in the days of Herod the king,
behold, there came wise men from the
east to Jerusalem.
Saying, Where is he that is born King
of the Jews? for we have seen his star
in the east, and are come to worship him.
When Herod the king had heard these
things, he was troubled,
and all Jerusalem with him.
And when he had gathered all the chief
priests and scribes of the people
together, he demanded of them where
Christ should be born.
And they said unto him,
In Bethlehem of Judea:
for thus it is written by the prophet;
And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda,
art not the least among the princes of Juda:
for out of thee shall come a Governor,
that shall rule my people of Israel.
Then Herod, when he had privily called
the wise men, inquired of them diligently
what time the star appeared.
And he sent them to Bethlehem; and said,
Go and search diligently for the young child;
and when ye have found him, bring me word
again, that I may come and worship him also.
When they had heard the king, they departed:
and lo, the star, which they saw in the east,
went before them, till it came and stood
over where the young child was.
When they saw the star, they rejoiced
with exceeding great joy.
And when they were come into the house,
they saw the young child with Mary his
mother, and fell down and worshipped him:
and when they had opened their treasures,
they presented unto him gifts; gold,
frankincense, and myrrh.
And being warned of God in a dream
that they should not return to Herod
they departed into their own country another way.
Matthew 2 : 1 - 12 KJV
--
Walk in Christ Shadow,
When they
saw the star, they rejoiced
with exceeding
great joy.
And when they were come
into the house,
they saw the young child
with Mary his
mother, and fell down
and worshipped him:
and when they had opened
their treasures,
they presented unto him
gifts; gold,
frankincense, and
myrrh.
And being warned
of God in a dream
that they should
not return to Herod
they departed
into their own country another way.
Matthew 2 : 1 - 12 KJV
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
7- February is a busy month in the life of the church. Shrove Tuesday, or Pancake Day as some refer to it, kicks off a last harrah before Ash Wednesday Service. As we begin with Ash Wednesday. We come to service take part in Communion and recieve the oil and ashes onto our foreheads. How Many times have you done this? Probably quite a few. We'll use last years palms that I'll burn into ashes.
Sometimes it's good to revisit and mediate upon the meaning of it all. Soberly and somberly , in reflection we accept the ashes with a repentative heart. That kicks off our 40 days until Easter Sunday!
We are resurrection people so Christ paid our debt. We are forgiven. He made the ultimate sacrifice for us all.
As we move through this time in February and March ; let us try our best to be somber and humble of heart-mediative- and fully honor our Christ!
Walk in Christ's Shadow,
Pastor Mary
Easter is a festival of overwhelming joy.
The joy that celebrates life. Or, rather, the victory of life over
death.
But does it have any historic background. Did life really overcame
death?
Most important, why Jesus is so remembered on Easter?
And why those funny stuffs like eggs, and bunnies
came to be mixed up with those ideas?
Also who brought all those customs
on the soil of America?
Easter and Spring
Come March. And the world around you gets geared up to go ga ga
on a festive spree. Some skeptics might shrug off the March
madness fray, but can't beat the freak it rolls out of its season of
rejuvenation, rejoice and renewal that ushers in with a basketful of new
promises and gifts in galore. The nature discards its weary look to don
a brand new outfit. The shining sun showers its blissful warmth, as if,
to thwart the frosted blanket which the winter wraps around us. The brook
turns bubbly. The blooming tulips,
the crocuses and the daffodils - all swayed by the cool southie breeze,
bring back the vibe
on earth.
What else can be a better day for fun and fiesta? To have your family
reunited? Friendship and love renewed? And feelings shared?
Perhaps all these traits have made spring and celebrations almost
synonymous. That too from the dawn of human history.
Even in the Greek mythology, Demeter and Persephone, convey the idea
of a goddess returning seasonally from the nether regions to the light
of the day. This is in conjunction with the vernal equinox, March 21, when
nature is in resurrection after the winter.
Even Easter - the grand occasion that reminds you of the golden
and crimson eggs and chocolate bunnies, the ho'cross buns, is also a spring
time festival. As if the Almighty had chosen this glorious season for the
death-resurrection and exaltation of Jesus
Christ, the son of God.
History Of Easter
Easter, the principal festival of the Christian church year, celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his Crucifixion. The origins of Easter date to the beginnings of Christianity, and it is probably the oldest Christian observance after the Sabbath (observed on Saturday). Later, the Sabbath subsequently came to be regarded as the weekly celebration of the Resurrection.
Meanwhile, many of the cultural historians find, in the celebration of Easter, a convergence of the three traditions - Pagan, Hebrew and Christian.
According to St. Bede, an English historian of the early 8th century, Easter owes its origin to the old Teutonic mythology. It was derived from the name Eostre, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring, to whom the month of April was dedicated. The festival of Eostre was celebrated at the vernal equinox, when the day and night gets an equal share of the day.
The English name "Easter" is much newer. When the early English Christians wanted others to accept Christianity, they decided to use the name Easter for this holiday so that it would match the name of the old spring celebration. This made it more comfortable for other people to accept Christianity.
But it is pointed out by some that the Easter festival, as celebrated today, is related with the Hebrew tradition, the Jewish Passover. This is being celebrated during Nisan, the first month of the Hebrew lunar year. The Jewish Passover under Moses commemorates Israel's deliverance from about 300 years of bondage in Egypt.
It was in during this Passover in 30 AD Christ was crucified under the order of the Roman governor Pontius Pilate as the then Jewish high priests accused Jesus of "blasphemy". The resurrection came three days later, on the Easter Sunday. The early Christians, many of them being brought up in Jewish tradition regarded Easter as a new feature of the Pascha (Passover). It was observed in memory of the advent of the Messiah, as foretold by the prophets. And it is equanimous with the proclamation of the resurrection. Thus the early Christian Passover turned out to be a unitive celebration in memory of the passion-death-resurrection of Jesus. However, by the 4th century, Good Friday came to be observed as a separate occasion. And the Pascha Sunday had been devoted exclusively to the honor of the glorious resurrection.
Throughout the Christendom the Sunday of Pascha had become a holiday to honor Christ. At the same time many of the pagan spring rites came to be a part of its celebration. May be it was the increasing number of new converts who could not totally break free of the influence of pagan culture of their forefathers.
But despite all the influence there was an important shift in the spirit. No more glorification of the physical return of the Sun God. Instead the emphasis was shifted to the Sun of Righteousness who had won banishing the horrors of death for ever.
The Feast of Easter was well established by the second century. But there had been dispute over the exact date of the Easter observance between the Eastern and Western Churches. The East wanted to have it on a weekday because early Christians observed Passover every year on the 14th of Nisan, the month based on the lunar calendar. But, the West wanted that Easter should always be a Sunday regardless of the date.
To solve this problem the emperor Constantine called the Council of Nicaea in 325. The question of the date of Easter was one of its main concerns. The council decided that Easter should fall on Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox. But fixing up the date of the Equinox was still a problem. The Alexandrians, noted for their rich knowledge in astronomical calculations were given the task. And March 21 was made out to be the perfect date for spring equinox.
The dating of Easter today follows the same. Accordingly, churches in the West observe it on the first day of the full moon that occurs on or following the Spring equinox on March 21., it became a movable feast between March 21 and April 25.
Still some churches in the East observe Easter according to the date
of the Passover festival.
The preparation takes off as early as on the Ash Wednesday from
which the period of penitence in the Lent
begins. The Lent and the Holy week end on the Easter Sunday, the day of
resurrection.
If you would like to click on Highland UMC's website to continue this learning experience on Easter in America and it's roots.
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The roots of Easter in America:
Today, with all its joyous customs,
Easter is indeed a major popular festival across the United States.
A festival that has become more of secular in spirit, though it has religious background.
However, this was not the case all along the history of United States.
Easter did not enjoy the status of a popular festival among the early
settlers in America. Because most of them were Puritans or members of Protestant
Churches who had little use for the ceremonies of any religious festivals.
Even the Puritans in Massachusetts tried their best to play down the celebration
of Easter as far as possible. While various rites are said to be associated
with the celebration of Easter, most of them have come as part of the ancient
spring rites in the Northern hemisphere.
Not until the period of the Civil War did the message and meaning of Easter begin to be expressed as it had been in Europe. It was the initiative of the Presbyterians. The scars of death and destruction which led people back to the Easter season. They found the story of resurrection as a great source of inspiration and renewed hope.
Since then, of course, its joyous customs delight children and adults
alike.
--
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
Greetings in the Name of Jesus Christ!
Here we are in the Season of Spring. Does it feel like Spring?
Easter was quite early this year.
I hope you all have a blessed Eastertide.
Remember we are Easter People, Not sitting in the room behind closed doors, Jesus is Alive!
What will you do about it?
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April Showers bring May flowers....
As a child I wondered if a girl named April brought a girl named May flowers to cheer her up?
Also, did all that rain in April bring a Mayflower (ship).
O.k. That's my attempt at comedy. As you can see God called
me to preach not to be a
"Mary, the cable girl".
This lesson in Eastertide , John 20:19-31 The disciples were
behind closed doors twice in verse 19 and 26.
We have lots of doors effect our lives also.
Thought for the week: Are you still sitting behind closed doors?
In the brief lesson of my "attempt" at comedy- shows that not my
calling!
That door didn't open, haha.
But, God did give me a calling...Jesus knocked ( opportunity knocks , you know) I answered.
Jesus knocks on your door this Eastertide to give you opportunity. However, you have to answer. He cannot come on in.
God Bless you all...
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
Well, Summer is waning. It's August Already! But, we have had a busy summer as the photos have shown on this website. We have been blessed this summer!
A few words about a wonderful experience I got to "have" a couple
of weeks ago. School of Christian Missions- Which I have attended
before here in West Ohio and West Virginia as a student. But, this
year I had a wondeful opportunity to help with the children's school.
We arrived Friday afternoon to ready ourselves for the coming children.
Grades 1-8 - 12 the weekend school. We did have one come on
Saturday for the Day School. So, 13 Children in all that weekend.
Rev. Jane Beatty was the leader, Ruth Ann was the other helper.
We met our children in the auditorium then we had dinner. Our first session was Friday Night. With Lessons on native American history, facts, and language. Some crafts were made, Children made a name tag with Symbols of what name they wanted to have. An activity interview asking them what they like to do. Followed in naming them in a Native American fashion. For Example. If Jane Doe like to swim. "She who swims" was her name. The Children were given a snack then we walked to meet their parents as we tied prayer ties in the bushes and trees outside the auditorim.
Saturday was a big day. Lots of lessons, crafts, tasting of native american foods...an afternoon of Swimming at the water park/pool there in Ada. Sunday was busy too as we finished up. A closing worship included a singing performance of a native hymn as Rev. Fred Shaw led and close this time together with communion.
We had a evening of down time before our own adult SOCM began on Monday. Linda Hamilton and myself attended. Both of us had a busy week, with lots of studying, learning. I believe in Jesus was a great class. What we stand for in this apparent post modern world. The Native American classes were great. They had Palesitne and Israel also, I attened that last year. From the Presentation of the "Gameshow" on the last night. It sounded great also.
I would highly recommend the School of Christian Mission to all who want to attend! Women, men, Young Adults, youth and kids. It's a wonderful retreat and learning experience to bring back home and to your churches. There are scholarships available for anyone who has never attended. "first timers" on all levels. And scholarships for both the weekend school and weekday one.
Well, I close this thought, now...until next thought...next month!
God Bless!
--
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
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Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
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Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
We will walk through each Sunday this month, reflecting and honoring Christ by lighting Candles until we reach the Christ Candle. Candles of Love, Peace, and Joy will be lit each week as we Prepare Him Room in our weekly messages. Have you , unlike like the innkeeper, prepared room for Him?
This Month as our celebration to prepare room for Him, We celebrate Advent in our Charge. We have already celebrated one Family Night with Highland UMC November 30. We have other celebrations such as, December 5th- Holiday UMW Party at noon; December 6th - we will be participating with a bake sale in the New Vienna Celebration. December 7th- will be Auburn UMC's family night at 5:30pm; December 7th The Highland Church will be making Love Plates and delivering them to our shut-ins, December 10th- the Highland UMW will be celebrating Christmas with a gathering and food at 7pm; December 23rd- Parsonage Open House at 6pm (Probably Christmas Carolling before in New Vienna) ; The Christmas Eve service will be 11pm at Highland UMC. And On New Years Eve At Highland UMC A Watch Night Service (Games and snacks before it) 9pm.
So, we do have alot to be thankful for and celebrate as a charge. I hope to see you at our events this month! God Bless you and your family in the coming year!
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
New year traditions? Making Resolulions and keeping them. The New Years Meal. Depending on your upbringing and local, some cook Silver coins in their cabbage, which is supposed to bring fortune in the New Year. Some Eat Black Eyed Peas. Some eat Pork and Saurkraut. Other Traditions we may do are Sitting down and watching the Rose parade and the "Bowl Games" GO BEARCATS!
We all have our traditions. But, an important tradition. To make New Tradtions, goals. One Being to to be open to the Holy Spirit to move in our lives so we may grow to be better servants and disciples for Christ! So, as you reflect upon this New Year and ponder changes, the past, even the economic conditions. Let us all move to be more open to the Holy Spirit and God Will in our lives in 2009.
Walk in Christ's Shadow
Pastor Mary
Weekly Lent Meditation:
"Lord, open my lips,
and my mouth shall declare your
praise."
Alternate Opening Prayer:
Let us pray,
at the beginning of Lent for
the spirit of repentance.
Lord our God,
you formed us from the clay of
the earth
and breathed into us the spirit
of life,
but we turned from your face
and sinned.
In this time of repentance
we call out for your mercy.
Bring us back to you
and to the life your Son won
for us
by his death on the cross,
for he lives and reigns for
ever and ever.
The Readings: Genesis 9:8-15;
Psalm 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9; 1 Peter 3:18-22; Mark 1:12-15
Daily Meditation:
Bring us back to you.
This week we pray for a renewal
of our lives.
We are beginning to be more
attentive and alert.
We are trying new patterns.
The difficulties we encounter
keep us humble.
Our desire is clear.
We want the "self-sacrificing
love of Christ" -
which brings us mercy and healing
- to be "reproduced in our lives."
In our journey, we seek to savor
the meaning of Jesus' self-less love,
that we might reflect that love
to others.
At the end of our journey, we
will renew our baptismal promises.
Dying with Jesus in baptism,
we have a new life in him.
Today, we desire nothing less
than God's re-creating us -
breathing new life into us.
Today's Daily Reflection
Intercessions:
Let us pray to our loving Redeemer,
who gained for us this season of grace.
Let us pray to him, saying:
Lord, create a new spirit in
us.
Christ, our life, through baptism
we were buried with you and rose to life with you,
- may we walk today in newness
of life.
Lord, you have brought blessings
to all mankind,
- bring us to share your concern
for the good of all.
May we work together to build
up the earthly city,
- with our eyes fixed on the
city that lasts forever.
Healer of body and soul, cure
the sickness of our spirit,
- so that we may grow in holiness
through your constant care.
Closing Prayer:
Lord God,
you who breathed the spirit of
life within me.
Draw out of me the light and
life you created.
Help me to find my way back
to you.
Help me to use my life to reflect
your glory
and to serve others
as your son Jesus did.
May the Lord bless us,
protect us from all evil
and bring us to everlasting
life.
Amen.
--
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
Yes, Holy week is over. However, Let us remember that
we are Easter People! Peopl of the Resurrection! Let us keep
that spirit, that feeling, the action all year around.
We have been truly blessed at Auburn and Highland
Churches. And the Year isn't even close to being over! We stand here
expectant of God's abundant blessings to cause our cups to overflow.
Let us in the next 40 days until ascension day Concentrate on what is really means to be and Easter Person. As we even perhaps use the biblical examples of Peter, John, Thomas, and the two disciples on the way to Emmaus; to guide us. Just as each experienced face to face the risen Lord with their own personal encounter. so do we all.
Let us grow in the next 40 days, and keep looking up and be prayer as we can catch the pentacost spirit.
Sharing with you who read our website, The past lenten
and Holy Week season has truly been a blessing and growing season. Symbolically,
as Winter gave way to spring.
With our youth confirmation class with graduated 5
girls from this Charge. They entered into their baptism and membership
in the churches here on this charge. We also, were privileged and
blessed to also add 3 adults in baptism and 7 adults to the membership
roll at Auburn UMC. ( Total of 11 with the young women).
We had the other confirmand enter into Membership at Highland.
Also, at Highland we will be finishing Adult Confirmation with a family
and three will be entering into baptism and Membership soon.
We are keeping looking forward to the wonders Christ is doing in this charge.
--
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
The next Picture os on Lakeside, Ohio where our West Ohio Conference takes place. The UMC Hymn, "Lord you have come to the lakeshore comes to my mind here. The Holy Conferencing that takes place is awesome! I come back refreshed with the great preaching and teaching that takes place. I believe, Midge also enjoyed it too.
God Bless you all. Have a great Summer in the Lord.
Also, our youth programming for summer will be happening again, here's is the schedule:
Time: 11:30am-1:30pm
Place: Highland UMC fellowship hall and parsonage yard
Dates: July 6 Maniac Monday, July 14th Terrific Tuesday, July
22 Wacky Wednesday, July 30 Thumpin' Thursday and August 7 Freaky Friday
We will be doing the theme of TREASURE Hunting, Laying treasures in heaven...a pirate theme.
So, bring your kids out for a Lesson, craft, refreshment and fun with water. Come dressed prepared to get wet, bring towel, water guns, and leave bad attitudes behind.
Walk in Christ Shadow,
Pastor Mary
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AUBURN CHURCH
This quaint little Auburn Church
Sits proudly on Careytown Road.
It's bell tolls each Sunday morning
To welcome both young and old.
This church hadn't been updated
Since its dedication in year 1891;
So we decided it needed some work
And we started up a building fund.
We needed a bathroom, classroom, and kitchen;
And the good Lord really blessed us all.
We soon collected the needed money
Because He answered our every call.
We could not have done this alone;
Our dear Lord gave us a helping hand.
We praise Him for all the success
And for the building fund we planned.
So as we kneel down in prayer,
Give thanks to the good Lord above;
He was with us each step of the way
And blessed us with His undying love.
Now we have a more modern church,
But the reason for attending is the same;
To thank the Lord for all His blessings
And to hear the words of His holy name.
We pray God will always bless this church
And all the good people who attend.
This little country church that proudly stands
By the side of Careytown Road. Amen.
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