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THE NET

Orangethorpe United Methodist Church

FEBRUARY 2002 - - - Volume 44 Number 2
experimental web edition

Open Hands, Open Hearts, Open Minds -- A Home For All God's People.

Lent

We are entering the season of Lent. The word Lent comes from the word lencten, which means spring. Historically, this season has been a time of preparation for the coming of Easter and remembering the passion of Jesus. Lent has also been the season of "giving up" things in our lives as an act of spiritual discipline. Each year I hear about people giving up chocolate for Lent, or giving up sodas, or deep fried foods. The idea of these acts being to deprive us of some of the indulgences in our lives as a way of focusing our attention towards God. In fact the early tradition stemmed from a time of fasting and preparation for baptism that new converts to the early faith practiced.

In recent years, I've also heard of people "taking up" some practice for Lent, rather than depriving themselves of something. Examples such as adding an extra time of prayer during the day, committing to a Bible study or class for lent, or simply taking a time of devotion each day to sit and be with God. I was struck by this idea when I read about an article that Erma Bombeck once wrote entitled If I Had My Life to Live Over Again. She writes,

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained and the sofa faded. I would have sat on the lawn with my children and not worried about grass stains. I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil or was guaranteed to last a lifetime. When my child kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now get washed up for dinner." There would have been more I love yous, more I'm sorrys, but mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute, look at it and really see it, live it, and never give it back.

Those are powerful reminders of what's important in life. In Luke 12:25-27, Jesus reminds us,

And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? If then you are not able to do so small a thing as that, why do you worry about the rest? Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin;yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.

During this season of Lent, I want to encourage you to take time from your busy lives, hectic schedules, and worries about "clean carpets" to take time to experience God's presence around you. Take up the discipline of sharing a family meal together at least once a week (without TV). Take up the discipline of sharing a cup of coffee with a friend each week. Take up the discipline of reading a passage of scripture together with your spouse. Whatever you choose, let it be an expression of your thanks to God for the wonder of creation and the gift of grace.

With God's Peace,

Karl

PRAYER CONCERNS

In the Churchfamily

The Extended Family

Our Sympathy to...

Congratulations to...

PRAY FOR PEACE

• in our lives,
• in our homes,
• in our community,
• in our country,
• in our world.

LENTEN STUDIES

Lenten dinners & studies begin

February 13 - Ash Wednesday

Dinner-6:30 PM - Adults-$3.00

Children under 12-$2.00

Followed by a Service of Ashes in the Sanctuary at 7:00 PM.

Dinners will continue on each of the Wednesday nights of Lent - Feb. 20, & 27, and Mar. 6, 13 & 20.

Several studies and worship opportunities will be offered. Please watch the Order of Worship for further details.

A FIRESIDE CHAT

To Discuss Cornerstone UMC's
Possible Relocation

Sunday February 10, 2002
following Worship

As you know, our brothers and sisters in Cornerstone UMC are looking into the possibility of purchasing their own facility and moving to a new location in order to expand their ministry. As we celebrate the fact that their ministry is growing, it also raises many questions for us here at Orangethorpe UMC and our own future.

On Sunday, February 10^th immediately following our worship service, we will adjourn to the Fellowship Hall for an old fashioned "fireside chat" sponsored by the Church Council. Our hope is to bring you up to date on all of the information about the possible move. We also want to give you the chance to ask any questions you may have, so we can all be working from the same page. Please plan to attend this gathering after worship, sip a cup of coffee, and be in dialogue with one another.

BITS AND PIECES

THANK YOU

"To all our friends at Orangethorpe United Methodist Church, we thank you for all the cards and remembrances at Christmas. They were greatly appreciated and we were overwhelmed. So 'thank you' one and all for your thoughtfulness.

Beulah and Haskell Jewell"

PBOT WORK DAY SCHEDULE

Chairperson, Don Bone, informs us that at their Feb. 20th meeting, the PBOT will be setting the Work Day schedule for 2002.

If you know of any projects or repairs that the PBOT needs to consider for their Work Days this year, please put that in writing on a request form found in the OUMC church office and submit it before Wed., Feb. 20th meeting or see Don Bone or any member of the PBOT at your earliest convenience.. Other members are Louise Adlof, John Bowles, Janice Fowler, David Groudas, Joseph LaRoche, Jo Menely, Tim Oehrke & Brad Pitchford.

SPANISH CLASSES SCHEDULED

Adult Spanish Language Class is being held every Wednesday from 3:30 to 4:30 PM in the Conference Room. Please call Pastora Teresa at (714) 773-4950 if you are interested in participating.

Children's Spanish Language Class. Since Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on Feb. 13th - Children's Spanish Class will definitely begin on Wed., Feb. 20th from 4:30 to 5:30 PM in the Conference Room. Please call Pastora Teresa at (714) 773-4950 if you are interested.

RIVER BOAT TRIP

Come and join Pat and Joe Manson when they "tiptoe through the tulips" in Holland in mid-April for one week on a river boat. For further information, contact Jo Menely at (714) 525-2197.

NOTE FROM THE OFFICE MANAGER

Please be aware that if you have a project or printing project that requires office assistance, that project must be in the church office two weeks prior to its "needed date" or it will be done on an "as can" basis or as time permits.

YES, we have a new copier. It runs 35 sheets per minute - unlike our former copy-printer which ran copies at 120 sheets per minute. Copier jobs are taking longer. We will be very happy to aid you with your copying needs, but ask that you come to the office

We are approaching a very busy time of year with extra mailings and many extra Orders of Worship, along with many holiday events. We appreciate your cooperation in assisting us in completing our tasks in a timely manner.

If you have a few hours that you could donate in the church office, please feel free to call (714) 526-8317 and let us know when you could volunteer.

Thank you for being such a special Churchfamily as we continue to work in our church and community sharing God's call to us in His ministry.

Sharyl Lewis, Office Manager

URGENT NEED

Several of our lattice panels have been damaged to the point that we are unable to use them. If you have the expertise to repair/salvage these panels, please call the church office at (714) 526-8317. We would like to have these repaired by February 20th is at all possible.

NEW USE OF FACILITY CARDS

With Orangethorpe and Cornerstone churches, OUM Pre-school; Latino Ministry, Orangethorpe Learning Center; Cub Scout Pack #1294; Exercises Classes, and Karate Classes, West Fullerton Little League, Levite Choir, and now a Brownie Troop, and other outside meetings, we are really busy.

1. There are NEW Use of Facility Cards. All cards from last year are null and void. If you have an event or class on the church campus, YOU MUST SUBMIT A NEW CARD for the year 2002. SOOOOOO, PLEASE HELP US coordinate the activities of the churches' and other programs - PLEASE fill out the USE OF FACILITY CARD with your needs.
2. Projects or printing project. Please be aware that if you have a that requires office assistance, that project must be in the church office two weeks prior to it's "needed date" or it will be done on an "as can" basis or as time permits. YES, we have a new copier. It runs 35 sheets per minute - unlike our former copy-printer which ran copies at 120 sheets per minute. Copier jobs are taking longer. We will be very happy to aid you with your copying needs, but ask that you come to the office hours during the week from which are 9 AM to 12 Noon or 1:30 to 4:30 PM, Monday through Thursdays. On Friday, from 9 AM to 12 Noon.
3. Add to or change a room. If you wish to add to or change a room in any way- décor furniture, etc., you must first submit (in person) a plan of action, with specifications, to the Parish Board of Trustees who meet once a month, every second Wednesday. Thank you.
4. Paper waste. Please break down all boxes and cartons that go into the trash cans and dumpster.

"Lift Your Spirits" Meal Deal

Please be aware that our ministry to those who have been hospitalized or are ill at home can provide a meal by just calling the church office at 526-8317 or Jean Sahr at 524-1523 who will take the request with information regarding your needs, diet, dates and length of time you need to have meals provided. Valerie Lawler will call and remind those who are preparing meals of the date and give travel directions.

Just call, we'll be there to ease your recuperation with at least one hot meal a day.

OLC CELEBRATES 7TH BIRTHDAY

Orangethorpe Learning Center celebrates the 7th anniversary of its founding Thursday, February 14th. We'll have a party in the OUMC/CUMC Fellowship Hall at 3:30 PM which will feature an interactive pre-Hispanic music program led by Martín Espino. Mr. Espino makes his own instruments and has studied the ancient musical heritage of Mexico and several other countries. He teaches children to play the instruments and sing the songs of the cultures. More details of his work can be found at his web site at http://martinespino.com/. This will be a fun occasion for children and adults of all ages. Don't miss it. Bring your friends!

ORANGETHORPE LEARNING CENTER SCHEDULE

OLC is open 2:45 to 4:30 PM, Monday through Thursday, but is closed on the following days. This schedule is based on the Fullerton School District's calendar:

• Martin Luther King Day - January 21
• Lincoln Day - February 11
• Washington Day - February 18
• Spring Recess - April 8-12
• Memorial Day - May 27
• Last day - June 6, 2002

VOLUNTEERING

Remember, if you volunteer at the church, Worker's Comp requires us to keep records of those who volunteer, the time spent here and the task performed. Please sign forms are in the Church Office. We appreciate all those who share their gifts and talents with us. God has blessed you richly, and we thank you for enriching the lives of others.

HOT MEAL MINISTRY SERVING DATES FOR 2002

• February 25
• March 25
• April 22
• May 20
• June 17
• July 22
• August 26
• September 23
• October 28
• November 2
• December 23

NET DEADLINES FOR 2002

IT HAPPENS WEEKLY

QUILTERS

On Wednesday, February 6th, we will be putting a quilt on the frames. If you would like to come and help it would be great. If you don't know how to quilt, we will gladly teach you. Hope to see you there.

Bertha Stear

SONSHINE SINGERS

Hey, kids! Come join me on Sundays right after church. Bring your bright shining faces and cherub singing voices to practice in the Chapel at 10:15 AM.

Mrs. Oehrke

HATHA YOGA

Tuesday evenings, 5:45 PM to 7:00 PM in the Church Lounge. This three-point program works with breathing, stretching and relaxation to gain flexibility and renewal of the body, mind and spirit.

ANGELUS HANDBELLS

Angelus HandBell Choir Rehearsals are held Tuesday evenings at 7:30 PM in the Choir Room.

PASTOR'S PRAYER PARTNERS

Thursday Mornings - 8:00 AM!

If you are interested in a rewarding and meaningful experience, please join us in the Conference Room.

SANCTUARY CHOIR

is held on Thursday evenings at 7:30 PM in the Choir Room. If you love to sing, please consider joining us.

IT HAPPENS MONTHLY

BIRTHDAY LIST
FEBRUARY

If your name does not appear on the Birthday List, please call the office at (714) 526-8317.

YOUTH FOR FEBRUARY

Sun., Feb. 3rd -- U.M.Y.F. - 5-6:30 PM -- Youth Room

Sun., Feb. 10th -- Jack Pack Time -- 9:50-11AM at Jack-In-The-Box

Sun., Feb. 17th -- YPC

Sun., Feb. 24th -- Jack Pack Time -- 9:50-11AM at Jack-In-The-Box

WOMANSPACE

Mon., Feb 11th -- 6:00 PM

Chicken Pie Shop

928 Euclid, Anaheim

All women are invited to attend for food and fellowship.

Out With The Guys

Monday, Feb. 11th -- 6:00 PM

China Buffet

104 W Orangethorpe Ave., Fullerton

Corner of Orangethorpe and Harbor

All guys are welcome to join us for food. Parking in the rear of the restaurant.

ANGEL TREE UPDATE

Perry and Sheri stuffed decorator bags by Linda, with crayons, chocolate, mini notebooks, colored pens, pencils and erasers, and candy canes. (This was made possible by all the generous cash donations we received) While Jo and Joseph played Santa and filled large bags of wrapped gifts waiting to be picked up by the children's guardians. (This was made possible by the members who adopted an angel and went shopping for them).

Patricia, a grandmother and the guardian for 'Precious', age 3, said: "Angel Tree is a big blessing for Precious, whose father is in prison." Precious said: "My daddy is giving me a present".

Angela, the mother of Josh, age 5, said: "I am very grateful for my son, Josh, that he able to receive gifts from his father through Angel Tree."

And all the people said: AMEN!

Sheri LaRoche for Angel Tree

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

At our January 15th meeting, it was announced that donations are continuing to be received for the Christmas Card Box Fund. To date $571.71 has been collected to be used for UMCOR Relief programs. Our sincere appreciation to all Churchfamily members participating.

Edna Olney and Mary Harvey attended District UMW Officer Training held in Garden Grove.

Plans were discussed for the luncheon for Rummage Sale volunteers to be held February 14 in the Fellowship Hall.

Edna Olney was hostess for this meeting.

Margaret Padrick conducted our Prayer and Self Denial service.

Our next meeting will be February 17 with Lois Stoughton as hostess.

Reminder - Rummage Sale week is April 8 to 12.

Mary Harvey, President

February 3

• Communion
• Sermon Text: I Corin. 1:18-31; Micah 6:8
• Sermon Title: What Do You Want From Me?"

February 10

• Bible Sunday
• Scout Sunday
• Sermon Text:
• Sermon Title: "Bible 101"

February 17

• Sermon Text: Acts 16: 11-19????
• Sermon Title: "The Color Purple" -- Sharyl Lewis

February 24

• Sermon Text: John 3:1-17; Genesis 12:1-4a
• Sermon Title: "Born Again"

Preaching is by Rev. Karl Stuckenberg, unless otherwise indicated.

Communion Sunday
FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

• Worship Service
  • 9:00 - 10:00 AM
• Nursery Care
  • 8:45 - 10:15 AM
  • Room 1
  • Kristie Pitchford, Attendant
• Coffee Fellowship
  • 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
  • Fellowship Hall or Patio
• Sonshine Singers
  • 10:15 - 11:00 AM
  • Room 4
  • Jan Oehrke, Director
• Youth Sunday School
  • 9:50-11:00 AM
  • "Jack Pack" for Youth
  • Jack in the Box
  • Julie Norris, Youth Director

What is Communion Sunday?

Our children remain in the Worship service and receive a children's message. Adults and children share in Communion.

Other Sundays

• Worship Service
  • 9:00 - 10:00 AM
• Nursery Care
  • 8:45 - 10:15 AM
  • Room 1
  • Kristie Pitchford, Attendant
• Children's Sunday School
  • 9:20-10:00 AM
  • Patio Lounge West
  • Led by OUMC Teachers
• Coffee Fellowship
  • 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
  • Fellowship Hall or Patio
• Sonshine Singers
  • 10:15 - 11:00 AM
  • Room 4
  • Jan Oehrke, Director
• Youth Sunday School
  • 9:50-11:00 AM
  • "Jack Pack" for Youth
  • Jack in the Box
  • Julie Morris, Youth Director

Sunday Notes

• Infant Child Care -- Child care is available for your infant or toddler every Sunday morning. A child care worker will be present in Room 1 from 8:45 until 10:15 AM.
• Coffee Fellowship -- Coffee and punch is served in the Fellowship Hall or on the Patio between 10:00 & 10:30 AM.
• Nametags -- Don't forget to wear your nametags so that our visitors and new friends can know who we are. If you need a nametag, please state so on the Ritual of Friendship, and one will be provided.
• Announcements -- Please give all announcements to Rev. Stuckenberg by Thursday of the week you wish to make your announcement.

Scout Sunday 2/10/02

Cub Scout Pack 1294 will be in church that Sunday. If there is anyone who was a Scout, please wear your uniforms and please share your stories with the boys after the service. We will also be collecting any old flags you might have at home that you would like us to dispose of for you. We are planning a flag retirement ceremony for the spring. We will let you know the date so you may attend.

Thank you all,
Perry Miller

2002 Ministry Teams -- TBD

• Worship Design Team
  Sharyl Lewis, Chairperson
• Worship Logistics Team
  Marian McGee, Chairperson
• Evangelism
  Sheri & Joseph LaRoche, Chairpersons
• Churchfamily
  Pamela Taylor, Chairperson
• Church & Society
  Mary Lou & Bill Roberts, Chairpersons
• Education
  Mary Hood & Kristen Stuckenberg, Chairpersons

Boards and Councils

• CHURCH COUNCIL
  TBD
  Conference Room
• PRESCHOOL BOARD
  Tues., Feb. 5th, 7:00 PM
  Church Lounge
• FINANCE COMMITTEE
  Sat., Feb. 9th, 8:00 AM
  Conference Room
• STAFF PARISH
  TBD
  Pastor's Office
• WEST FULL. RESOURCE CENTER
  Thurs., Feb. 28th, 9:30 AM
  Conference Room
• LAY LEADERSHIP TEAM (formerly Nominating)
  Conference Room

Parish Meetings

• PARISH BOARD OF TRUSTEES
  Wed., Feb. 20th, 7:00 PM
  Conference Room
• PARISH COUNCIL
  Tues., Feb. 19th, 7:30 PM
  Conference Room
• CAMPUS STAFF
  Thurs., TBD
  Conference Room
• PARISH FACILITIES
  TBA
  Conference Room

Lent is a time to reflect upon Jesus' journey into Jerusalem. This Lenten Season we would like to publish a journal of our Churchfamily's reflections of their walk with Jesus.

These reflections may be in the form of:

• Brief Personal Stories
• True Life Experiences
• Poems
• Song Lyrics
• Other forms of written expression

This journal will be available on the first Sunday of Lent in order for you to experience these reflections throughout the entire Lenten Season.

All reflections MUST BE typed and submitted by Monday, February 4, 2002, in order to be included. Submissions may be turned into the Church Office, faxed to (714) 871-7342, or e-mailed to cheryl@cgdesignconcepts.com.

Please include your name and contact number on your submission.

STAFF

For Your Information

Office Hours

Orangethorpe United Methodist Church

Orangethorpe United Methodist Preschool

THE NET

• Editor:
  • Sharyl Lewis
• Volunteer Staff:
  • Darlene Borris
  • Carl Borris
  • Bertha Stear
• Web conversion by:
  • Chuck Carey - send your comments to: cwcarey@earthlink.net