October

Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.

-1 Corinthians 11:1

Are you familiar with the "Jesus Year"? It's this idea that there is something significant about the year a person is 33. As far as I can tell, it started as a kind of running joke. I came across the idea about a decade ago in the form of a pithy remark someone made: "When Jesus was 33, he started a movement that changed the world forever. What have you accomplished?" It was funny. Sort of an over-exaggerated version of being compared to your successful older sibling. I laughed, but didn't really think much about it.

Then, the Jesus year became a Thing. In 2012, Canada's The Globe and Mail ran an article entitled "The Rise of the Jesus Year." A few years later, Deadspin assumed everybody knew the term when they published a piece entitled "How to Kick *** During Your Jesus Year." A popular online slang dictionary now offers this entry for Jesus Year: 

The 33rd year of your life where you are reborn in some sense. Perhaps a mid-life crisis, perhaps an ego death, perhaps the year where you abandon old ways and start new 

Over the past few years, I've seen more than a couple friends turn 33 and speculate over what their Jesus year has in store for them. Granted, about half my friends are clergy, so that may be a skewed sample, but it seems like the idea has cemented itself into our culture.

As I write this article, I am 32 (I know, I know. You thought I was older). By the time you next see me after reading it, I'll be 33. My Jesus year starts now. And, as it does, I find myself resisting the premise. There is just nothing inherently special about being 33 as opposed to 32, or 23, or 79. This year carries just as much significance as every other year of my life. I don't get extra hours, additional resources, or anything else to set this year apart. It is just another year.

Perhaps, though, the fact that 33 isn't special should make the idea of the Jesus year even more significant. Because if there's nothing unique about 33, then I can have a Jesus year any year - or better yet, every year. And so can you. 

I'm making five commitments in an effort to more closely imitate Christ this year, and they're the same five commitments I've made every year since 2015, when I was approved for ordination on my 27th birthday. These are not special promises reserved for we professional church people. They're ones anyone can make. Perhaps you'll consider making them with me.

1) Love Deeply. Jesus declared love to be the first and greatest commandment. He also made love his last commandment. His whole life demonstrated deep, abiding, unselfish love.

2) Be Welcoming; Share Food. Inclusion was a constant practice of Jesus', and much of that inclusion happened around shared meals. He knew breaking bread with another person could be a powerful experience.

3) Ask Questions Rather Than Providing Answers. Jesus was insatiably curious about other people's thoughts. He asked 307 questions in the Gospels, and listened intently to others' responses. Of the 183 questions others asked him, he answered only 3.

4) Tell Good Stories. Jesus was a storyteller. In fact, story was his primary means of communication. "So with many parables like these, he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear. He did not speak to them without a parable" - Mark 4:33-34

5) Find Reasons to Party. Jesus' first miracle was to provide top shelf wine at a wedding feast. He developed a reputation for feasting and drinking too often. In the last week of his life, he led a parade, and accepted Mary's extravagant gift of anointing with expensive perfume. In every circumstance, Jesus was ready to celebrate.

I might be the one turning 33, but I hope that this year, and every year that follows, can be our entire community's Jesus Year.

Blessings,

Pastor Shea

Chair Yoga will continue in the pavilion at 10am on Tuesdays until the weather gets cold. Any questions please contact Liz Scarlett

Haiku is a form of poetry consisting of 3 lines that tells about nature and one little moment in time taken from real experience. People seem attracted to the simplicity of the haiku form - that is, simply noticing, noting and recording moments that are happening around us. I like to think of haiku as “word shots” in place of snapshots.
I wrote:    haiku is a reminder
                   how extraordinary
                   “Be Here Now” is
 

Below are a few of my favorites of John Scarlett’s haiku about autumn. Pause after reading each one before going on to the next and “experience the moment” he is offering.
 

restless
        all night
full moon too
 

lanes of honking cars
   return to the city
first geese
 

back and forth
above the border guards
       geese
 

geese
       excited to come
        excited to go
 

autumn wind
      a gust
               of starlings
 

                        JRS 

 A reminder that delicious, unsweetened applesauce made by the HPC Youth Group, is still available in two quart bags in the freezers at church. The cost is a donation in the can on a dining room table.

 As most of you know, I lead a bit of a chaotic life. I kind of pride myself in the thought that I do my best work when there’s a million and one things being thrown at me and I’m still able to stay on task even though there might be a small bald spot on the back of my head where I’ve yanked hair out. It has to be the back of the head, so the rest of my hair can cover it. But, I continue to smile and work my way through the mess that is placed in front of me. My son has put me through the ringer this year. As I write this, we are stuck in quarantine because he was exposed to a positive kid at school. Does my son show any signs of being sick, no. Is he trying to break out of the house like Andy Dufresne from the movie The Shawshank Redemption, absolutely. He hates being locked up in the house and not being able to go to school. Yesterday when he was on a zoom meeting with the rest of his class, I heard another boy ask, “How long before I can come back to school?” the teacher replied with “Monday buddy.” to which the kid replied back “Oh thank goodness!!! I hate this!!!” And I sat here, listening to that and started laughing. This poor teacher is doing the best that she can during these chaotic times and you see how drained she is. I’m so tired of feeling drained and broken from all the chaos that’s thrown at me that I started to learn how to sit back and just laugh at it. Is there anything I can do to change the situation we are being put in, nope, so why sit here and fight it? 

The say “In a few years we will all look back at this and laugh.” which makes me feel like God has a bit of a sense of humor also. He puts this chaos in front of us, to make us stronger, smarter people and yet we question “why me?” when really we know the answer is to follow God through this mess. God has a plan for all of us, and if we could just sit back and let God handle the chaos, we might be able to sit back and laugh now, instead of in a few years. We just have to remember that this is all God’s plan and if He can laugh at it, so can we. 

 Hammond Food Pantry for October will be Thursday, Oct. 28th from 9:30 to 11:00 at the Hammond Fire Hall. All income eligible families are encouraged to be present to receive free food. We are continuing to ask everyone to stay in their cars, line up at the back of the Fire Hall and when it is their turn to come to the back door and sign in. The food will be brought out to the cars by our volunteers. New families are always welcome, and may sign up on that day. 

Our Food Sense program is after noon, the same day as Food Pantry, but is a separate program. Food Sense items are listed on a monthly menu and include meats, fish, produce, some frozen items and family goods in a single unit, costing $20.50.. There are also special foods to be ordered separately from the units Meats, fish, frozen goods and fresh produce make up the specials. All Food Sense must be ordered and paid for ahead of time. These programs are a good way to make your food dollars go farther. For information, contact Joan Hadlock at 315/324-5517 

Reminder that we are collecting items for the CWS Hygiene Kits. Slips listing the required things are on the table at the back of the church and in the dining room. Questions? See Joan Hadlock

The following was written by a Marion Medical Mission Shallow Well Program volunteer:

“One year, a child was given a gift of a trip to Disneyland. The child broke into tears, saying, ‘I don’t know what it will be like.’ Maybe that is why I resisted God’s call to Malawi for so long. I didn’t know what it would be like. Where would I sleep? Will I like the food? I don’t know the language. Will I be safe? All those vaccines? I hate to fly. I can’t do it. I don’t know what it will be like.

Even after we accept and make the long trip to Malawi, there are times of doubt. I don’t know what it will be like. Maybe there is a change of assignment, new people, a new area. The path going off into nowhere causes a bit of nerves. Even after years working in Malawi, there may be a sudden change of plans. But I don’t know what it will be like.

Every day is a new challenge. What you do know is that you are sheltered under the wing of God who is riding alongside you in the truck and with the psalmist you can say, ‘My God in whom I trust’. And my frequent prayer in Malawi is, ‘Lord, I need some help here.’ You may be surprised at how often that prayer is answered. But be prepared, you don’t know what it will be like.”

 On October 24, during the worship service, we will have our annual Blessing of the Animals. Please bring your "Church trained" (It's like house trained, but holier) animals, or pictures of ones who are a bit more active, to be blessed.  

 In commemoration of the church’s 200thAnniversary, a memorial monument is planned to recognize the seventeen original founding members of the Presbyterian Church of Rossie, now known as Hammond Presbyterian Church. The founders started the church in April, 1821.

The monument will be located in front of the church where anyone passing by will be able to read the founders’ names.

This monument project will be fully funded by donations. All gifts are greatly appreciated!

Checks may be made out and sent to “Hammond Presbyterian Church” with Monument Fund noted in the memo. PO Box 193, Hammond, NY 13646.

The picture included here is a rough draft idea of what the monument will be. 

Trunk or Treat

Hammond Presbyterian Church

Sunday, October 31st 

6-8 pm

Come for an evening of candy and fun!

Decorate cars in the greatest Halloween theme or 

you can decorate a table in the pavilion and hand out candy!!

Please let Jocie know by Oct 22nd, to make sure 

that we have enough space, and let her know if you are decorating a car or a table.  

Any questions call or text Jocie

   HARVEST DINNER will be held Thursday, Oct.14th from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. A Turkey Dinner with all the fixin’s will be served Drive By-Take Out only. No need to call for Pre-orders. Adults, $12.00; children 5 to 12, $6.00; Under 5 free. For further information, call 324-5665 between 9am and 12pm week-days. 

Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately.

-2 Timothy 2:15

"I'll try."

The laughter in the sanctuary as I uttered those words at my installation was expected, and even desired. I knew the correct answer to the question was "I will," and I knew giving the response I did would catch people off guard, and I'm certainly not one to shy away from the chance to make people laugh.

But funny as that response was, it was also the most honest answer I could give to the question. For those who did not memorize the question being asked, this was it:

"Will you pray for and seek to serve the people with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love?"

That's a tall order, to say the least. 

I don't know about you, but there are times when I feel totally devoid of energy. Sometimes that comes from the satisfying place of having worked myself to the limit. Other times, I'm just run down and unmotivated.

When it comes to imagination, I have flashes of creativity and insight that surprise even me. And I also have days where the most creativity I show is eating my boxed mac and cheese from a cup so I can postpone having to wash the dishes a few more hours.

The same comparisons could easily be made for intelligence and, yes, even love. I am human. As a human, I am limited, and those limits can vary greatly from one day to the next. When it comes to serving the people with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love, I think the most honest answer I, or anyone else, can give, is "I'll try."

Instead of committing myself to an insurmountable task, here is my promise to you as we journey together:

I will seek to serve you with all the intelligence and wisdom at my disposal. And I will do my best to recognize that I do not know or understand everything, and sometimes the most intelligent choice I can make is to acknowledge my own limitations.

I will seek to serve you with all the imagination I can muster. And I will recognize that my imaginative ideas are not always good, that there are limits to my creativity, and that others' imaginations may be more up to the task of addressing a given subject.

I will seek to serve you with energy equal to the work to be done. And I will honor myself, my family, and the hoped-for longevity of our pastoral relationship by not expending so much energy that I am no longer able to replenish it and find myself burnt out. I will also honor you and the energy you bring, acknowledging that none of us is up to the task of doing the work of the church alone, but together we are more than capable.

I will seek to serve you with Christ-like love. And, when I inevitably fall short of the example of Christ's perfect love, I will seek your grace, your understanding and, where necessary, your forgiveness.

I can't promise I will. I'm quite certain there are times when I won't. But I can promise I'll try. And I hope you'll try too. May we all give as we are able to the work to which we have been called.

Blessings,

Pastor Shea

Chair Yoga classes have been extended into September because of continued interest. The free classes are held Tuesdays at 10 am in the pavilion. The classes will continue until it is too cold to hold the classes outside. I call the class “The Power of Imperfection - Just Do It!” to remind us to not wait until we lose that extra weight or get in “better” shape. NOW is the time.
The gentle yoga movements done mostly in a chair increase strength and flexibility, improve posture and balance, and help you feel more relaxed and energetic. You can join the classes any week. The classes do not build on the previous ones so you can plug in at anytime.
I hear that it is rumored that people in the class have been observed laughing and enjoying themselves while enhancing their well being.
Liz Scarlett 

On Sunday, Sept, 12, there will be a dedication of the newly renovated church kitchen. 

Sam Donato was our general contractor and painter, and did some amazing work to update and restore much of the older, substantial cabinetry which we wanted to maintain. He also installed the new cabinet unit and counter top, cleaned the original cabinet hardware and painted everything, including the beautiful metal ceiling. The electrical capacity was updated by Proven Energy Systems, plumbing done by Mike Greaney, and counter top purchased through Garlock’s. The flooring was laid by Gardners’ in Ogdensburg, using new tiles plus some we had left from previous dining room floor work. The new sink cabinet was built by Curtis Furniture of LeRay. The large wooden table was raised to a better working height and the top covering removed and reversed to reveal a new, pristine surface. Although many people assisted with the work, the kitchen team consisted of the following: Linda Schnittger, Marilyn Hunter, Jackie Washburn, Denise Diana, Ann Root, Bob and Allison Barrigar, Randy Kraft, Liz Bawden and Joan Hadlock. Thanks to all for their ideas, input and work to achieve the beautiful, efficient kitchen we now have in which to work.

A reminder that delicious, unsweetened applesauce made by the HPC Youth Group, is still available in two quart bags in the freezers at church. The cost is a donation in the can on a dining room table. 

As I type this article, I am watching the clock. 1 hour and 15 minutes, until I go on Vacation. It’s been a while since I have allowed myself to take a break and take a week off. Usually it would be a couple of days here and a couple of days there. But I was always in arms reach of my office. So what am I going to do for a week away from the office, I don’t know. I’m so excited to go on vacation, that I haven’t made any plans. And in all fairness, I’m a mom with kids, do I really go on Vacation, or is my next count down to the day I go back to work and the kids going to school? But, when you plan on having vacation, whether you do something or not, it feels like there’s nothing but chaos that happens just before you punch out from work for the day. Did I get everything organized and completed that will be due next week? Am I forgetting something important that I haven’t taken care of? I’m a complete worry wart and I just want everything to go smoothly, which we all know will, but when you’ve been caring for something/someone for so long, it’s always hard to let go and take care of yourself and your own needs, even if it is for a week. 

                     When God was creating everything, His first day was light. Second day He made the sky. Third day was the lands, seas, plants and trees. Fourth day He created the Sun, Moon and Stars. The fifth day He created creatures that live in the sea and creatures that fly. On the Sixth day animals that live on the land and Humans were made in the image of God. On the seventh day, God took a day to rest. He even knows the value of a little self care and time off. Makes me think that every Sunday, God must take a little breather when we are all together taking care of one another, showing love and compassion, and giving thanks for what we have. He may not be out of “the office” on Sunday, but maybe He’s got his feet up on the desk and playing a game on the computer for 15 minutes.  

Hammond Food Pantry for July will be Thursday, Sept. 23rd from 9:30 to 11:00 at the Hammond Fire Hall. All income eligible families are encouraged to be present to receive free food. We are continuing to ask everyone to stay in their cars, line up at the back of the Fire Hall and when it is their turn to come to the back door and sign in. The food will be brought out to the cars by our volunteers. New families are always welcome, and may sign up on that day. 

Our Food Sense program is after noon, the same day as Food Pantry, but is a separate program. Food Sense items are listed on a monthly menu and include meats, fish, produce, some frozen items and family goods in a single unit, costing $20.50.. There are also special foods to be ordered separately from the units Meats, fish, frozen goods and fresh produce make up the specials. All Food Sense must be ordered and paid for ahead of time. These programs are a good way to make your food dollars go farther. For information, contact Joan Hadlock at 315/324-5517 

Reminder that we are collecting items for the CWS Hygiene Kits. Slips listing the required things are on the table at the back of the church and in the dining room. Questions? See Joan Hadlock

Marion Medical Mission Director Tom Logan talked on line about the coming well season. This year, MMM will once again not be able to send American volunteers to Malawi, Zambia and Tanzania for the construction of over 3000 wells in over 3000 villages, covering over 60,000 sq. miles in the remotest areas in these three countries. These wells will be constructed by trained African personnel and will serve 375,000 of the extreme poor, with 225,000 being children.. Logan says that well building is holy ground and an example of what is right in this world. Although we are separated from our African associates, we are in this together. In spite of various difficulties such as supply problems, weather related obstacles and unforseen road blocks, all things are possible with God’s continuing blessings. Together we can be the people God wants us to be. Marion Medical Mission is about making life count.

Hammond Fair is back and will be held Friday and Saturday, Sept. 10 and 11that the Fair Grounds on Lake St. in Hammond. This is a time for the youth of St. Lawrence County and area to display the work they have done through the year with their animals, hand crafts, art and photo work, vegetables, baking and more. All entries must be brought in to register on Thursday, Sept. 9th from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m. The exception to this is rabbits, which can be brought in Saturday morning in time for the 9:00 rabbit show. Hammond Fair books may be seen on line, giving further details on showing requirements. Hammond Fair is a very old fair, this being the 81st annual Fair. It is a community affair, to be enjoyed by all ages. There is a minimal entrance fee at the gate. For further information, contact Joan Hadlock at 315/324-5517. 

In commemoration of the church’s 200thAnniversary, a memorial monument is planned to recognize the seventeen original founding members of the Presbyterian Church of Rossie, now known as Hammond Presbyterian Church. The founders started the church in April, 1821.

The monument will be located in front of the church where anyone passing by will be able to read the founders’ names.

This monument project will be fully funded by donations. All gifts are greatly appreciated!

Checks may be made out and sent to “Hammond Presbyterian Church” with Monument Fund noted in the memo. PO Box 193, Hammond, NY 13646.

The picture included here is a rough draft idea of what the monument will be.  

 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after giving thanks he broke it, gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat, this is my body.”
-Matthew 26:26

I'm pretty sure there's a cashier at a Walmart in Connecticut who thinks I'm a serial killer.

About two years ago now, I had a specific problem. It was chicken processing day at the Zellweger house - for the unfamiliar, that's the day the chickens move from the pasture to the freezer - and after having dispatched all of the birds, I realized we had a problem. We store our chickens in very nifty heat-shrink bags that seal with zip ties. I had bought bags from a new supplier that year, and discovered on opening the box that the zip ties were not included. So, off to the store I went. As I headed out the door, Jocie reminded me we also needed trash bags, and a new tarp. Making the drive to the store and looking at the distinctive red stains on my jeans, I realized we could use some bleach as well.

So, there I was at Walmart, wearing jeans with streaks of red on them, buying zip ties, trash bags, bleach, and a big old tarp. The cashier looked at me, a confused expression on her face, and asked if I'd found everything I needed. Thinking about that one chicken that had escaped and made me chase it around the yard, I cracked a smile and said "everything but the stun gun." Then I paid for my items and walked out the door. I was about halfway home when I realized that without context, my appearance, shopping cart, and sense of humor seemed like something out of a low budget Dexter reboot.

The early church had a similar misunderstanding on their hands. In the second century, Justin Martyr wrote an Apologetic (that is, a defense, not a request for forgiveness) attempting to vindicate Christianity of multiple charges, including that of cannibalism. Why cannibalism? Well, it turns out when you talk about getting together in worship to partake of the body and blood of your anointed one, misunderstandings can happen. In chapter 66 of his First Apology, Justin explains the eucharist in detail to try and clear up the misconceptions. People at the time were very skeptical that he was telling the truth, and charges of cannibalism persisted for another 150 years.

We use a lot of strange language when talking about church. We have a room we call a sanctuary that is not a place where people are protected from government authorities. Our Labyrinth is not an impossibly difficult maze wandered by a minotaur. We pepper our speech with ancient Aramaic terms like "Amen" (truly), "Hosanna" (help us!) and "Messiah" (person who has had oil poured on him by a priest). And 1870 years after Justin's First Apology, we continue to eat Jesus' body in worship. It's all rather odd, and only grows more so as religious diversity in our culture increases.

I still raise meat chickens, and probably always will. But after that encounter in the checkout line, I try to remember that not everybody else does, and do my best to use simple language that makes it clear what I'm talking about, or clarify when I use an unfamiliar term, because not everybody has the same experience as me.

I also still preside over communion, and probably always will. I think, though, that it might benefit all us church people if we were ready to talk about what we do - and why we do it - in simple language, or clarify when we use unfamiliar terms, because not everyone has had the same experiences as us. 

 Have you ever found yourself saying "I wish I knew more about the Bible"? Do you open the Scriptures and find yourself overwhelmed by all the numbers, headings, and footnotes covering the page? This fall, Hammond Presbyterian Church will spend eight weeks reading Beginnings, a simplified reader's version of the first five books of the Bible which presents the text without any of the distracting, confusing, or esoteric additions which have turned the Scriptures from stories into reference materials.

Each week, we will gather to talk about that week's readings in a book club format. This is not a 'Bible Study' with Greek words, commentaries, and a list of hyper-specific questions. Rather, we will come together for a conversation about your reactions to what you read, with the same four suggested questions every week: What stood out to you? What troubled or confused you? Did anything make you think differently about God? How might this change the way you live? Your group can engage any, all, or none of these questions, allowing the conversation to go wherever it leads.

Sign up today, and experience reading the Bible like you've never done it before!

Signup: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044BAFAF23A5F58-fall3

 Info video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aln8seZJzo 

  The Bicentennial committee would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the weekend a success. Thanks to Pastor Shea for what Reverend Marti Montovani called a memorable and meaningful service. Thanks to those who provided, cooked, and/or served food at the receptions. Thanks to Tara Atherton for putting the slide show together. Thanks to Hammond Museum for use of it Elthorpe models of the churches and historical items. We know there are others who helped with time and talents. Please know we appreciate all the assistance. 

There are several people in my life that I absolutely adore and they have no idea. These people do no wrong in my eyes. They normally don’t know this, because I’m not about to walk up to them and profess my adoration to them, but when I talk about them to others, it’s pretty clear to everyone how I feel about that person. And I’m not talking about the love I have for my husband and kids, that’s just a known fact, I mean the people that have found a way into my heart and I keep them in there for safe keeping. For example, Mr. Watson is a man that I hold safely in my heart. Anything I’ve done or continue to do, he looks onto me with such approval and love and I adore him. He might not know this (even though I know he always reads my newsletter articles, so if he didn’t know, the cats out of the bag now) but he holds a place in my heart that no one will ever be able to fill. I feel so lucky to have him, and so many other people that have touched my life and found a little place in my heart, even if they have no idea that they have done so. I think that’s what makes it all the more special.

And if you think for a moment that you don’t believe that you are in a place in anyone’s heart, that’s when God steps in. When we are having a rough day, He gives us what we need to feel better. After a rain storm, there’s always a rainbow. After a cold winter, there’s a warm spring. We always have to remember that God loves us through our good days, our bad days, and our chaotic days. When there are days that you find it hard to love yourself, God is there holding you in his heart loving you unconditionally. So when you feel that warm feeling in your soul, just know its God making sure you know that he’s in your heart also.

    Hammond Food Pantry for July will be Thursday, Aug.26th from 9:30 to 11:00 at the Hammond Fire Hall. All income eligible families are encouraged to be present to receive free food. We are continuing to ask everyone to stay in their cars, line up at the back of the Fire Hall and when it is their turn to come to the back door and sign in. The food will be brought out to the cars by our volunteers. New families are always welcome, and may sign up on that day. 

Our Food Sense program is after noon, the same day as Food Pantry, but is a separate program. Food Sense items are listed on a monthly menu and include meats, fish, produce, some frozen items and family goods in a single unit, costing $20.50.. There are also special foods to be ordered separately from the units Meats, fish, frozen goods and fresh produce make up the specials. All Food Sense must be ordered and paid for ahead of time. These programs are a good way to make your food dollars go farther. For information, contact Joan Hadlock at 315/324-5517 

    Heifer International was founded in 1944, with the vision of a worldwide program to end hunger and poverty while caring for the earth. For more than 75 years, Heifer Int. has provided livestock and sustainable agricultural training for struggling communities around the world. They now work in 21 countries, including the United States, helping local food producers expand their businesses and earn a living income. Hammond Presbyterian Church has promoted Heifer International through our memorial giving project at Christmas time. We have donated many animals, seeds and trees, as well as agricultural tools and training. People of many beliefs are working together around the world to help realize the timeless vision of Heifer International. 

  In commemoration of the church’s 200thAnniversary, a memorial monument is planned to recognize the seventeen original founding members of the Presbyterian Church of Rossie, now known as Hammond Presbyterian Church. The founders started the church in April, 1821.

The monument will be located in front of the church where anyone passing by will be able to read the founders’ names.

This monument project will be fully funded by donations. All gifts are greatly appreciated!

Checks may be made out and sent to “Hammond Presbyterian Church” with Monument Fund noted in the memo. PO Box 193, Hammond, NY 13646.

The picture included here is a rough draft idea of what the monument will be.  

   We are all so fortunate to have a rendering of the “Old Stone Church” which served the Hammond worshipers from 1837-1871. Krysta Aten-Schell used descriptions of the church in old records to make this lovely picture. We hope to make larger copies to hang in the church and Hammond museum. 

  A reminder that delicious, unsweetened applesauce made by the HPC Youth Group, is still available in two quart bags in the freezers at church. The cost is a donation in the can on a dining room table. 

 Reminder that we are collecting items for the CWS Hygiene Kits. Slips listing the required things are on the table at the back of the church and in the dining room. Questions? See Joan Hadlock 

  Starting August 10th on Tuesdays at 10am for the Month of August there will be Chair Yoga, free of charge, led by Liz Scarlett. It will be in the pavilion or chapel depending on the weather. Hope to see you all there.  

 ‘On the first day of the seventh month, you are to hold a holy assembly. You must not do your ordinary work, for it is a day of blowing trumpets for you.
-Numbers 29:1
They observed the Feast of Shelters as required...From the first day of the seventh month they began to offer burnt offerings to the Lord. However, the Lord’s temple was not at that time established.
-Ezra 3:4a, 6

 

Celebration is a curious thing. Not just what we celebrate, but when and why we choose to celebrate it, says a lot about what we value. 

This month marks two national holidays which, on their face, appear very similar. But beneath the surface, they're quite different. July 1 is Canada Day, often referred to as Canada's Birthday. July 4 is Independence Day, often referred to as America's birthday. Both holidays ostensibly celebrate the birth of a nation. But the events they celebrate couldn't be more different. 

Independence Day recognizes the anniversary of the day the continental congress voted to declare its independence from Britain. Our nation could have said our birthday was the day the declaration was signed (August 2, 1776); the day the Articles of Confederation were adopted (November 15, 1777) or ratified (March 1, 1781); or the day the US Constitution was adopted (September 17, 1787) or ratified (June 21, 1788). But we choose instead to mark our "birthday" as the day a group of men voted to set American Independence in motion.

Canada Day, on the other hand, was originally called Dominion Day, and commemorates the day Britain formally confederated Canada, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick into a "kingdom in its own right," giving the fledgling nation the authority to govern its own affairs within its own borders. Canada could instead celebrate the day it became fully sovereign (April 17, 1982) or, if they wanted to take a page out of our book, they might celebrate the signing of the Westminster Statute (December 11, 1931), which is often cited as "Canada's Declaration of Independence."

Two holidays. Two national "birthdays." Yet one celebrates independence, while the other celebrates unity - something which is also reflected in our respective national anthems and, I would argue, in our cultures as well.

There is a third celebration taking place this month: The bicentennial of our church. 200 years ago, give or take, seventeen families moved to land they'd bought from David Parish, set up their homesteads, built a church, and formed the backbone of a community which would become Hammond. We are not marking the bicentennial of when Scottish immigrants first started arriving (that was in 1818). Nor are we commemorating the formation of the town of Hammond (March 30, 1827). Nor the construction of the first church building's edifice (begun October 4, 1833) Rather, this bicentennial celebrates the formal gathering of the worshiping community which we know today as Hammond Presbyterian Church. As the day draws near, I invite you to consider what it is about this church - this community of faith and fellowship - that you believe is worth celebrating.

Blessings,

Pastor Shea

On Sat., July 31 (the date of the town-wide yard sale), there will be a yard sale at Hammond Presbyterian Church 8 AM-2 PM. Please come and check it out. You never know what treasures you may come across. 

If you want to sell your items at the sale, please contact Anne at (315)324-5485 or email thegasguys527@gmail.com soon for details and to reserve a spot. All sale items remaining at the end of the day will be taken home by the seller. There will be no fee for hosting your sale at the church, but monetary donations will be accepted if you wish to offer.

  The HPC Bicentennial Committee has been hard at work collecting ideas, information, and images to use in our celebration July 10 and 11. It is taking shape and promises to be a joyous and informational time.

The celebration will begin with a program Saturday, July 10th at 7pm. This program will present the history of the church in word, song and images. We are fortunate to have the program created by Rev. Halbert Campbell for the 125th anniversary to use as a guide. Writings of Rev. Dr. Daniel Ferguson have also been invaluable. The Hammond Museum has been gracious in sharing their collection of articles and photographs. After program there will be refreshments and social time for everyone. 

A special service will be held Sunday at 10:30am. This will blend worship from the past and present. Attendees will be welcome to join at a picnic reception to follow the service and to share memories. Historical documents and artifacts will be available for inspection in the chapel.

All are welcome to join us to celebrate and reminisce this milestone about our church’s history and future.

We look forward to seeing and hearing from our friends and descendents of the original 17 members.

  Since the beginning of the year, I’ve been trying to give stuff up. For lent I tried to give up stress, which was actually quiet comical because when I would catch myself getting stressed out, I was rubbing my temples and repeating over and over “I gave up stress for lent.” to which the person in the room with me would giggle and say “Yeah, and how’s that going for you?” I gave up sweets for a bit, than the holidays came and I would buy candy that the kids wouldn’t eat on purpose so I can have a snack, but then gave up sweets again because I ran out. I give up cleaning my house every day when I look at the mess my children have left me and then start cleaning again because if I step on that Lego one more time it’ll be going in the garbage. I have given up on going to bed early at night because I catch myself at 1am having Netflix ask me “If I’m still watching..” and of course I am. I have considered giving up coffee, but children make me reconsider this when they wake up at 6am and I’ve been binge watching my shows.

There is something that I’ve been told though for years that I am a fan of doing is “Giving up your problems to God and He will sort it out.” For all those days that something bad has happened and you’re struggling and ready to give up, that’s when God is there to help you to continue to push forward. It might not be the way that you thought it would be, but when you give up your struggle to God, He finds a way of showing you that everything is going to be alright on the other side of that situation. He’s making us stronger and pushing us past our boundaries so when we succeed, we appreciate everything so much more. So when you feel like giving up, just remember, God is the only one that will never give up on anyone or anything.

  This summer we will be collecting items to make up Hygiene Kits to be sent to Church World Service for distribution in this country, as well as overseas. The following goods are needed for each kit..

1 hand towel (15-16"X28-30") No fingertip towels.

1 washcloth

1 wide tooth comb

1 toe nail or fingernail clipper

1 bath size bar of soap in package

1 tooth brush

10 standard bandaids

Please bring in only the items listed. If preferable, you can give several of one kind.. There will be hygiene kit lists in the dining, along with a collection box. Many thanks for your help.

Any questions? Contact Joan Hadlock (315/324-5517)

  Hammond Food Pantry for July will be Thursday, July 29th from 9:30 to 11:00 at the Hammond Fire Hall. All income eligible families are encouraged to be present to receive free food. We are continuing to ask everyone to stay in their cars, line up at the back of the Fire Hall and when it is their turn to come to the back door and sign in. The food will be brought out to the cars by our volunteers. New families are always welcome, and may sign up on that day. 

Our Food Sense program is after noon, the same day as Food Pantry, but is a separate program. Food Sense items are listed on a monthly menu and include meats, fish, produce, some frozen items and family goods in a single unit, costing $20.50.. There are also special foods to be ordered separately from the units Meats, fish, frozen goods and fresh produce make up the specials. All Food Sense must be ordered and paid for ahead of time. These programs are a good way to make your food dollars go farther. For information, contact Joan Hadlock at 315/324-5517 

  Church World Mission is 75 years old. After World War II ended. Europe and Japan were devastated. Countless refugees from the war needed a safe place to call home. People of faith from 17 denominations across the United States came together to form an agency which could help their neighbors and do in partnership what none could do alone. Now 75 years later, the original 17 denominations have expanded to 37, helping hundreds of thousands of refugees to find new, safe lives. CWS programs have helped feed people, access clean water, and improve harvests and education, the underlying belief being that when we work together, we can change the world. Hammond Presbyterian Church has in the past collected and sent to CWS numerous school kits,  hygiene kits, emergency cleanup buckets and blankets. Since January, CWS has distributed nearly 38,000 blankets and kits internationally, and nearly 64,000 blankets and kits in the United States. So the need continues. Our next project will be collecting hygiene kits to send to Church World Service. Please find more details in another article in this news letter. Joan Hadlock

  The upgrade to the church kitchen is nearly completed. Plans for the kitchen renovation began some time ago, when Christine Visscher wrote the grant which provided funding for the project. We also received several personal contributions to build up the kitchen budget. Over the years several members and friends of the church have helped plan the needed work. The new cabinets were crafted by Curtiss Furniture. All construction and painting has been done by Sam Donato. In early September there will be a dedication of the kitchen, with appreciation to all who have participated.

 Hammond Fair will be reopened this year, to be held Friday and Saturday, Sept. 10 and 11th. at the Fair Grounds on Lake St. in Hammond. All St. Lawrence County area youth are encouraged to prepare their animals, handcrafts, produce and flowers, baking and art work for judging. As in the past, animal judging will be held Friday and Saturday, with all other items judged on Friday, except for rabbits, which can be brought in for judging Saturday morning. Entries to the Fair must be brought in on Thursday, Sept. 9th, between 1:00 and 9:00 p.m. ,For further information, contact Joan Hadlock at 315/324-5517.. 

We are having a Fish Fry on July 30th from 4:30-6:30pm. We will have Dine-in or Take out options.

Menu:

Fried Fish, Mac and Cheese, Cole Slaw, and Dessert.

Adult Meals are $12

Children ages 12-5 are $6

Children ages 4 and younger are FREE!!!

For any questions, please contact Tara in the office at (315)324-5665.

We are looking for a new Custodian for our church to work 4 hours a week doing general cleaning. For inquires please contact Randy at (315)317-4852.

 "Pray as you can, not as you cannot."

-Abbot John Chapman

One need only compare the fairly sparse walls of my office with the many paintings and posters occupying the walls of the manse to conclude two things: One, someone in the Zellweger household really enjoys decorating and two, it is not Shea. Most of the decor that currently calls my office home was here when I arrived. Apart from a few diplomas hanging behind my head, there are currently three items I've added to the mix.

One of these, located on the top shelf between a menorah and a poster of the lighthouses of Ohio on Lake Erie, is a framed pair of sketches. On the left is an expertly done drawing of Godzilla in black pen, signed and dated by the artists. On the right, an equally well done volcano, which has orange crayon lava flowing from its top, and a blue scribble that's meant to be a Pterodactyl in flight. This, too, is signed by the artists. Both of them.

There is, as you can imagine, a story behind these drawings. In February of 2014, at a barbecue restaurant in Kansas City, my 5-year-old son wound up seated next to a professional comic book artist named Freddie Williams. To keep Cole occupied while we waited for the food, Freddie drew him a picture of Godzilla, and signed and dated it for good measure. Cole said it was pretty good, and then offered to help Freddie draw something even better. He instructed Freddie to sketch a volcano while he grabbed a blue crayon and drew a pterodactyl. After pausing to assess the work of art, Cole then decided it also needed to be erupting, and used his orange crayon to make it so. Freddie signed that work of art as well, and Cole did the same.

Seven years - and dozens of sketchbooks - later, it is my (likely biased) opinion that Cole is already a better artist than I could ever hope to be, and his sketchwork in particular is something I'm often impressed by. He's certainly drawn things more deserving of being framed and mounted than that volcano. But I keep the volcano, both as a fond memory, and as a reminder to myself of what grace looks like.

God, the creator of the universe, invites us to create. God, whose very nature is love, invites us to love. God, whose giving knows no end, invites us to give. God, who is faithful to every generation, invites us to a life of faith. Our efforts don't come close to achieving God's divine standards, and they never will. Yet when we do our best to create, to love, to give, and to live into this faith we proclaim, God is there to encourage us and support us. And I like to imagine that when I've done the best I can, God is willing to sign my work, date it, and proudly display what we created together.

May we all continue to do our best work in this life of faith.

Blessings,

Pastor Shea

 The HPC Bicentennial Committee has been hard at work collecting ideas, information, and images to use in our celebration July 10 and 11. It is taking shape and promises to be a joyous and informational time.

The celebration will begin with a program Saturday (July 10) evening. This program will present the history of the church in word, song and images. We are fortunate to have the program created by Rev. Halbert Campbell for the 125th anniversary to use as a guide. Writings of Rev. Dr. Daniel Ferguson have also been invaluable. The Hammond Museum has been gracious in sharing their collection of articles and photographs.

A special service will be held Sunday morning. This will blend worship from the past and present. Attendees will be welcome to join at a picnic reception to follow the service. Historical documents and artifacts will be available for inspection.

All are welcome to join us to celebrate and reminisce this milestone about our church’s history and future.

We look forward to seeing and hearing from our friends and descendents of the original 17 members.

It’s not too late to contact the church with ideas, artifacts and memories. They can be sent to the church email: hpc215@gmail.com . A more complete agenda will be included in the July newsletter.

  The annual Deacons’ Picnic will be held Sunday, June 13th, in the pavilion, following worship service. Hamburgers, hotdogs and beverages will be provided by the Deacons, asking everyone else to bring a covered dish or dessert. During worship, the Deacons’ Award will be presented., recognizing an individual who has been of service to our church community. We hope everyone will plan to attend the service and picnic. 

 When I was in kindergarten, I met one of my best friends, that I’m still best friends with today. She and I were attached at the hip. My mom would tell me that watching us girls together is some of her fonder memories that she had of me as a munchkin and I never understood why, until having a daughter of my own. Last weekend, my daughter had her best friend come over for a sleep over, and I caught myself giggling with the girls and understanding what my mom was talking about. When we were in the car, I turn on the music and I look in my rear view to two girls singing their hearts out or dance and giggling and being over all just silly. After I get my groceries, and having both girls be so good through all of that, I hear them whispering behind me which usually is followed by a “you ask her….no you ask her….She’s your mom….but she won’t say no to you..” conversation. “What do you want from me now?” I ask and give the girls a questioning look. “DONUTS!!!” they squeal at me in the pitch that I didn’t think was humanly possible, and I just look at them, with their two cute little faces looking at me with the biggest smiles and the biggest “please” eyes and I melt. “I guess that’s okay with me.” I say, to which they respond with happy squeals of “YES!!!” and made up songs about how amazing donuts are. 

People are always so concerned about history repeating itself but I think God wants certain past habits to keep repeating because He enjoys watching this happen over and over again. Almost like watching a favorite movie or listening to a favorite song for the millionth time. God must get a chuckle out of seeing the silly things we do, whether it’s by ourselves or with our best friends. If it brings a smile to your face, it’s God making sure you know that it’s okay to be silly and go spoil yourself with a donut.

  The next Hammond Food Pantry will be Thursday, June 17th, from 9:30 to 11:00am at the Hammond Fire Hall. All income eligible families are encouraged to attend and receive their free food. During this Covid period, we are asking folks to stay in their cars and line up behind the Fire Hall and when it is their turn, come into the back door and sign in. The food will be brought out to your cars by volunteers. On the same day, only after noon, the Food Sense program is in effect. This is open to anyone and not related to Food Pantry at all. The Food Sense is a great way to save on your food dollars. Each month there is a menu sheet showing the items on the food unit, at a cost of $20.50. This includes meat, fish, fresh produce, canned goods, and family meals. In addition there are usually six specials which can be ordered separately. Food Sense must be ordered and paid for ahead of time through me. I urge anyone to look into the Food Sense program as a good way to save money on the high quality food offered. If there are any questions on Food Pantry or Food Sense, please contact me. Joan Hadlock (315) 324-5517. 

 MISSIONS: MINC (Ministries in the North Country) continues to have a steady demand on its Emergency Fund, providing help with utility costs. MINC can pay $200.00 per family for utilities, which reduce the amount owed to National Grid, and stalls shutoff for 30 days, to give people the opportunity to make a payment plan with the utility company. National Grid must offer families a payment plan that they can afford, in some cases as little as $10.00 per month in addition to their current bill. Affordable housing is also a real problem, especially in St. Lawrence County. People on SSI and other forms of disability often find that rent uses up much of their monthly benefits. With long lists for Public Affordable Housing, many families live in substandard housing, which they rent. Hammond Presbyterian Church has long supported and contributed to the MINC program, an important resource for many North Country families. For further information, contact MINC Chairperson Rae Louise Tate or Rev. Rachel Roberts, MINC Outreach Coordinator at (315) 713-4343 ext. 3. Joan Hadlock 

If customers can’t find it, it doesn’t exist. Clearly list and describe the services you offer. Also, be sure to showcase a premium service. We are happy to say that the kitchen renovation is nearly completed, after a much longer time than we had anticipated. New cabinets holding the new sink have been custom made by Curtis Furniture. We decided to maintain the old, wooden cabinets in the remainder of the kitchen, as they are original, and very substantial. Sam Donato, our main contractor, added new sliding features on the drawers, so they open easily. These drawers will be cleaned, and lined with shelving material. The hardware from the old base cupboards was removed, cleaned and reused. Hardware from the upper cabinets was all repainted. The electrical components have been updated, with new outlets added. The power cord to the stove was replaced and the stove moved somewhat to allow for more working space in that corner. New counter tops all around add matching and more sanitary working surfaces. The old cabinets, walls and ceiling have been painted. Some new additional shelving was added. The overhead pipes and electrical wires have been neatly boxed in. A new hot water heater was added. New flooring will be installed in the kitchen back room, using tiles which were in storage. The main kitchen flooring was in good condition, just needing a good stripping and cleaning. The large table in the main room was refurbished by removing and reversing the surface sheet. The edges will be sealed to assure cleanliness. The table height will be raised to a more suitable working level. Many thanks to all who participated in the planning and decisions which were made in this process. And many thanks to Sam Donato for his excellent and careful work on this project. I believe we will now have a kitchen which will be more sanitary, easier to maintain, provide more storage and ready to produce many more dinners for us and for the public. Joan Hadlock