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PASTOR’S NOTES Eric Kelley
We have experienced an extraordinary Lenten season this year. The Thursday evening programs spilled over into our regular worship service on Tuesday evenings in a most wonderful way. Those who were part of this were able to witness a whole new dimension of trust, love, healing and fellowship in our church family. Being part of the church is a process that involves commitment. Among other things there are times of worship, fellowship, study, prayer, work and fun that nurture the whole person. If we don’t step in on this level there is much that we will never get which, needless to say, is why I encourage your active participation on many different levels. In the next few weeks we will be looking specifically at the power of resurrection in our church. We will be looking at the effect of the resurrection on the first century religious community and the ways that God is able to bring life to death in our own lives. This journey is not for the simple-minded or faint-hearted. Many good things are happening in church right now. Bill Whelan is fine-tuning our web site with great information and wonderful pictures for all to enjoy whether we are members or new people looking for a church home. The Apple Tree Project is going great guns and we have even made the paper. You may know that we are going international with the budding Olive Tree Project through which we are sending beautiful clothing for Bedouin children on the West Bank. This is a direct result of our Jordan, Israel and Palestine trip. We have a caring church that is able to respond to needs when they arise. We took in ten new members this month and the list is growing for our next group which we will welcome early this summer. The date for the Jonesport retreat has been changed to July 22-23 to accommodate the Tall Ship weekend in Casco Bay. The Cabaret is something you shouldn’t miss as it will give you a picture of our multi-talented congregation and how much fun we have together. As you read this newsletter you will see how much we are doing and the numbers of people making it happen. If you are one of those, thank you for all you do that brings fullness and joy to our life together. If you are not, please know that you are always welcome! Grace and Peace, Eric
 MISSION COMMITTEE UPDATE Madeline Bates
From Church World Service (CWS).... Honduras- Guinea Bissau- Cambodia- Turkey- Thanks for contributing to this worthy cause! Where There’s a Will There’s Your Way Stewardship Committee A will is your voice giving instructions for how your estate, all that you have accumulated through a lifetime of hard work, should be distributed If you die without making a will, it is likely your property will not end up in the hands of those you choose. The State does have a plan for the disposition of your property, and although it is meant to be a fair resolution for all situations, the legislators could not possibly anticipate the circumstances of the thousands that die without a will. It is therefore surprising that 70% of Americans die without a will. Why have a will? Because You can decide how your property will be distributed, You can choose the guardians of your minor children, You have the possibility of reducing your estate taxes, and You have the opportunity to help assure the continued strength of the church and those organizations that have meant so much to you over the years. God expects us to be faithful with that we have, whether it is a little or a lot. Making a will is a way to celebrate all God has given us. Meet with your attorney to discuss your estate. Worship Recordings Bill Whelan As you may know, recordings are made of the Sunday worship services every week. There are two copies available for those who cannot make the service or may wish to hear a particular service again. You may borrow a copy or have your own copy made. We have tapes dating back approximately three months and hope to increase this to about six months. If you do borrow a tape, please sign it out. There is a sign-out sheet where the tapes are kept in the Sanctuary. If you’re not sure where to find them, stop by the office and they’ll be glad to assist you. Thanks to Landscape Architect, Peter Monro Gardening/Flower Committee The landscaping around our church has been greatly enhanced by the generous donation of talent, materials, and labor by Peter Monro. Initially, Peter helped with our Carroll Street garden, bringing in shrubs and plant material, gradually filling the space. This spring one of his clients was removing four large, spreading yews which can grow in the shade. Peter removed them carefully and replanted them for us on Carroll Street greatly improving the depth of that area. He was also seen one recent Saturday morning in the pouring rain helping to plant and design the little garden just outside the Parish Hall. We all benefit from Peter’s care of our church grounds and extend our thanks and appreciation! CHALLENGE ACCEPTED Stewardship Committee It has been exciting to see the congregation and its neighbors and friends step forward in matching the challenge grant to boost our endowment. They recognize the long-term value to Williston-West of having the resources to continue our ministry for the years ahead. Thank you to those listed below who have contributed or pledged by April 24. The total to date is $7,020. For others who wish to help, forms are available in the office or at coffee fellowship. Thanks to… |
| Lonnie Allen | Marjorie Armstrong |
| Don & Jan Beddie | Michael Beebe |
| George & Stephanie Crockett | Michael Donovan & Diana Morse |
| Chris & Marge Harding | Dan Kane |
| Eric Kelley | Elizabeth McLellan |
| Norman & Marta Morse | Ralph Mullett |
| Rachel Taylor | John & Gloria Tewhey |
| Bill & Diane Tyler | Don & Linda Zillman |
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New Church Directory Gloria Tewhey, Membership Committee Dear Members & Friends, To celebrate our church family and strengthen the bond within our congregation, we have made the commitment to produce a new pictorial directory.
We have selected Lifetouch Church Directories to work with us. Lifetouch is providing the directory at no cost to our church and, just for participating, every family or individual receives a complimentary directory and an 8 X 10 portrait! You will be able to view your images electronically immediately after you are photographed. At that time, you will also have the opportunity to purchase additional portraits to share with family and friends. You will need to allow one hour to accommodate check-in, to be photographed and for portrait selection. The directory will not be complete without 100% participation. Don’t miss this opportunity to have a professional portrait done. If you have not already been scheduled, please contact Gloria Tewhey. Photographs will be taken at Williston-West and the photography and viewing schedule is as follows: Thursday, May 18 3:00-9:00 pm Friday, May 19 3:00-9:00 pm Saturday, May 20 10:00-4:00 pm To make our directory a success we also need volunteers. If you are interested in helping during our photography sessions and/or telephoning, please contact Gloria or call the church office. NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT (Each month we will publish a segment on some of our newest Williston-West members Tim Honey … Name: Tim Honey
Tim says Williston-West is… "a great church community! It matters in every aspect of our life!" page 2
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