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The
Allen Park Presbyterian Church (USA)
A Stephen Ministry Congregation
We are beloved children
of God, a family called
and empowered by the
Holy Spirit to shine
Christ's love.
WORSHIP
SCHEDULE
8:30 a.m. Chapel
10 a.m. Sanctuary
11:30 a.m. Sanctuary
10:15 to Noon - The
Blend in the Parlor
(coffee, food & fellowship)
November 2014
Allen Park, Michigan 48101
Consecration Sunday - November 16, 2014
Many years ago the British writer and lecturer C.S. Lewis was asked to
speak on the subject of Christian stewardship. He began with these
words: On the whole, God’s love for us is a much safer subject to think
about than our love for Him. I feel very much that way myself. Sometimes
it is much easier and safer really, just to skirt the whole subject of
stewardship, of how we give shape and substance to our love for God.
But there is another side to that coin. A young Scot once told his
pastor, “I’m fed up with the church and Christianity. All I ever hear is give,
give, give!” The pastor, whose name was Donald Ross, fixed his eyes on
the young man and in his soft highland accent replied, “Well, can you
think of a better definition of Christianity than that? Give, give give!”
We may choose to skirt the subject entirely, but the fact remains that
stewardship is the way we define our faith and make it personal. In other
words dear friends, stewardship is what we do after we have said what
we believe. This means that our stewardship is far more than just the
dollars we give. At APPC, generation after generation of Christians before
us have put their love and faith into action in order that we might have a
Daylight Saving Time ends future here. They have passed the legacy to us. Now it is our turn. Our
on November 2, 2014. Be actions are part of the unfolding of God’s love in this place.
The next GOOD WORD
will be a combined
December/January issue.
The deadline for this issue
is November 12, 2014.
sure to set your clocks
back one hour.
Church office will closed
on November 27-28 for
Thanksgiving and on
December 25-26 for
Christmas.
We are in need of a Front
Desk Volunteer on
Wednesday mornings
from 9 a.m. to noon.
Please contact Rita in the
office if you can help. We
also need subs.
So once again, as your pastor, I ask you to pray about and consider
your stewardship. During the course of the last year, many of you have
asked me about the future of our wonderful congregation. It is always
our prayer that God’s plan for this church now and in the future will be
our plan. Stewardship season always reminds us that God’s plan and will
is always achieved through the generosity and dedication of God’s people
with their time and talent and treasure.
Please know that it is an honor for me to be your pastor. And even
though we live in hard economic times, I am convinced that our Lord has
great plans for this church. For many decades APPC has been dedicated
to showing the love of Jesus Christ in this community and that witness
has made Allen Park a better place. May we, with God’s help, continue
that legacy.
In Christ,
Douglas Blaikie
Page 2
A Stewardship Message
Rev. Michelle James, 313-383-0100, ext. 16
michelle@appc.us
How much is enough? That’s what the Hebrew
people kept asking Pharaoh as they were making bricks
under the hot sun in the brickyard. It’s a question that
continues to be asked, at least once a year in most
churches too!
This is that time of year. We ask ourselves (or the
Stewardship folks ask us to ponder), “How much am I
supposed to give to the church?” as we toil at our jobs
and pray our paychecks will stretch to the end of the
month.
Some say we’re supposed to tithe. But that’s 10%
of our income!!! How in the world are we supposed to
do that when we can’t even make the bills each month?
And is the tithe on our gross or net income?
Others suggest that the tithe is unrealistic, especially
these days when the economy is still recovering and
many of us are trying to pay off all that debt we
incurred “back then.” What if we start with 1 or 2%
and try to work up to 5% in the next few years.
Hopefully someday we’ll be able to work our way up to
a true tithe.
Will that work? These are difficult decisions that
need to be made with much prayer and consideration,
trusting that God will guide us to make the best
decision we can.
I’m reminded of a story about a man at a church in
Ghana. He slid into the back pew of a church for the
first time in his life. He listened to the preacher tell how
much God loves us and gave to us our very lives, from
creation to salvation. He heard how God’s Son died to
pay the penalty for the sins we commit and how
grateful we are for this amazing gift that came at such a
high price. The man was so moved to hear of God’s
great love and grace, that when the offering plate came
around that day, the man placed it on the floor and
stepped into it, both feet.
Now THAT is stewardship – giving ourselves back to
God in response to God’s first having loved us and
accepted us and having bought us out of our slavery to
sin.
We are entrusted with much, from the earth on
which we live to our own lives, from our bodies and
our health to our children and families, from the gifts of
time and talents to the money we jingle in our pockets.
The way we care for those things is our stewardship.
I remember a plaque my mom and dad gave me
when I moved into my own house for the first time (I
still have it!). It says, “What you are is God’s gift to
you. What you make of yourself is your gift to God.”
And I would add “the way we give” is our gift to God as
well. Do we give of ourselves joyfully in gratitude for all
God has done for us? Do we count each penny as it
slides through our fingers, wishing we’d have spent it on
something else? Our money is something which can put
a stranglehold on our hearts and change our joy into
mourning if we let it. And yet we owe our very lives to
God.
How much is enough?
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by
the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living
sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your
spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but
be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that
you may discern what is the will of God—what is good
and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:1-2
Blessings,
Rev. Michelle James
GIFT OF GIVING SUNDAY
One service of worship
10 a.m. followed by a
special luncheon in the
Fellowship Building
“We are surrounded by God’s benefits. The
best use of these benefits is an unceasing
expression of gratitude.”
John Calvin
Exploring Membership/Joining APPC
Saturday, November 8 at 9:15 a.m. (Parlor)
Join our pastors, Virginia (Horvath) Parent, and
other church leaders who will teach us who
Presbyterians are, where we find our spiritual roots,
how we govern ourselves and what we believe, as well
as APPC mission projects and fellowship possibilities.
At the conclusion of the class, participants will be
given the opportunity to join the church. Please let us
know if free childcare is needed.
Page 3
Celebrating Our Generosity - November 16
On the third Sunday in November, we will celebrate the “Gift of Giving” in our
church. It will be a special day as we give our gifts to the church. In preparation, our
focus during late October and early November will be to prepare us to be good
stewards of all God has given us.
One can think about ‘generosity’ or ‘gifts’ this way: Because these gifts are
essential in bringing about God’s reign on earth, we stewards are working together
with God. In offering our gifts, we offer ourselves not only to God but also to each
other. In doing so, we recognize our dependence on God, our interdependence on
each other, and our mutual accountability within the church.
You will hear, each Sunday leading up to November 16, how the church needs
support to accomplish its ministries, something we need to keep in mind as we make
our plans. But stewards don’t just “fund the budget.” We embrace a life in which we
acknowledge God as owner of all things and free ourselves from the burden of
continually protecting our property and possessions.
Watch the mail and the bulletins for more information on ‘Gift of Giving’ Sunday.
Bev Milotz
Chairman of Sessions’ Stewards Committee
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Children’s Sabbath!
The 10 a.m. service on November 2 will be
dedicated to guiding our children (and adults, too)
through the what, where, when, why, and how of
our Presbyterian worship traditions. Children will
have the opportunity to participate in all aspects of
the service including communion and baptism!!
This interactive service is sure to be fun for the
whole church family.
BOOK CLUB
Second Wednesday of the month
7:15 p.m. in the Parlor.
November 12: The Aviator’s Wife by Melanie Benjamin
December 10: I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up
for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by
Malala Yousafza
January 14: The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
Holiday Extravaganza
CRAFT FAIR
and Bake Sale
Saturday, November 8, 2014
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fellowship Building at Allen Park
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
7101 Park Avenue @ Cleveland
Free admission and free parking.
All items are handcrafted.
Lunch and baked goods for purchase.
Building handicap-accessible.
Sponsored by the Presbyterian Women of
Allen Park Presbyterian Church (USA)
For more info, call Elaine Doran at 734-795-6785
Calendar - November 2104
Page 4
TYPICAL SUNDAY SCHEDULE
WORSHIP - 8:30 am (Chapel)
TODDLER CARE 9:30 a.m. to 12:15
WORSHIP - 10:00 a.m. (Sanctuary)
Sunday School (Pre-K to 5th Grade 10:15 to 11:15)
THE BLEND 10:15 a.m. to Noon (Parlor)
APPLLE CLASSES (11:15 to noon)
Sun
Mon
CHOIR REHEARSAL (after 10 a.m. service)
Young Ringers & Young Singers (Bell Choir Room)
WORSHIP – 11:30 a.m. (Sanctuary)
Sunday Afternoon Activities:
5 p.m. Youth Connection Choir (Choir Room)
5:30 p.m. Youth Group for 6-12th Graders— (includes snacks,
CE, and youth group)
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
1 8 am Men’s
Prayer Breakfast
10:15
Underground
Railroad
2 Children’s Sabbath 3
Communion/Baptism
Team B (Intinction)
11:15 Conversations
on the Porch (SR)
DST Ends Fall Back
12 pm
Piecemakers
7 pm - Class
Conversations
about Theology
(Parlor)
7:30 Handbells
4 7 pm Deacons
7:30 pm AA (FH)
5 8 am Ruth Circle
6
1 pm Miriam Circle
6 pm SHARE Dinner
6:45 pm Worship
7 pm Phoebe-Hannah
7:15 APPLLE Oils
No Bible Study tonite
1030 am AA (DR)
9:30 am Care of
7 pm First Friday
the Parish
12:30 Esther-Lydia Film Festival
7 pm
7:30 Adult Choir
Scrapbooking
7:30 AA & Alanon
12
13
9
10
11
11:15 Conversations
7 pm Card Making
7 pm - Class
Conversations
about Theology
7:30 Handbell
9:15 a.m. Mission
Sewing (Art Room)
1:30 pm DorcasRebekah Circle
7:30 Session
1 pm DeborahSarah Circle (Parlor)
6 pm SHARE Dinner
6:45 pm Worship
7 pm Elisabeth Circle
7:15 pm Bible Study
7:15 pm Book Club
7:15 Tai Chi
17 12 pm
GIVING SUNDAY
Piecemakers
One service -10 a.m. 7 pm GriefShare
7 pm - Class
11 am
Conversations
Congregational
about Theology
Lunch
18
19
7 pm PW Gathering
(Parlor)
6 pm SHARE Dinner
6:45 pm Worship
7:15 pm Bible Study
23
25 6 pm PW Bible 26
8:30 to Noon
Can and Bottle Drive
9:30 am Free Blood
Pressure Clinic w/
Jeff and Carrie O’Riley
16 GIFT OF
24
12:30 Touch/Down 7 pm GriefShare
Local mission project
(see page 9)
7:30 Handbell
Choir
30 First Sunday of 1 Dec.
Advent (Fifth Sunday)
Noisy Offering
11:30 Deacons:
Feeding the Needy
Deadline to sign
up for trip to
Gurdwara Sahib in
Plymouth (see
page 7)
7:30 Trustees
Study
6:30 pm Youth
Council Meeting
7 pm PWCT
8 pm AA (DR)
NO SHARE
TONIGHT
8 pm AA (DR)
7 pm Hannah
7 pm GriefShare
Surviving the
Holidays (Parlor)
7:30 Adult Choir
7:30 pm AA &
7
10 AM TO 4 PM
9:30 New
Member Class
11:30 Session
Meeting
7 pm Tillers
14
15 8 am Men’s
1030 am AA (DR) Prayer Breakfast
9:15 APPLE
World Religions
7 pm
Buddhist
Scrapbooking
4 pm Marriemates
20
21
1 pm - Bucket
Club
7:30 Adult Choir
7:30 pm AA &
Alanon
1030 am AA (DR)
27
28
HAPPY
THANKSIGIVNG
OFFICE CLOSED
OFFICE CLOSED
7:30 pm AA
7:30 pm Alanon
8 CRAFT FAIR
7 pm
Scrapbooking
22
8 pm AA
29
1030 am AA (DR)
7 pm
Scrapbooking
8 pm AA
Page 5
CALENDAR CONTACT LIST
Deacons: Susan McCausland, Moderator: susanmmccausland@gmail.com
Youth Groups/Youth Council: Michelle James - michelle@appc.us
Preschool (weekday): Chris Haydon or Carrie O’Riley - 313-383-0100, ext. 19 - preschool@appc.us
Adult Choir: Wendy Reimers, Director - wendy@appc.us
Youth Connection Choir: Amy Bowerman, Director - amyloubowerman@gmail.com
Young Singers Choir: Andrea Carlson, Director - acarlson1964@att.net
Young Ringers Choir: Carolyn Marengere, Director - carolynmarengere@gmail.com (new email!)
Presbyterian Women and PWCT: Pat McBride: 313-732-5871 - patmcbride0804@gmail.com
Card Making Class: Barbara Hopper, Leader - b4frog@wyan.org
Tillers’ Fellowship Group: Gloria King: gloriaking@wowway.com
Free Blood Pressure Clinic: Beverly Milotz: milotzbev@wowway.com
Hearing Loop in Sanctuary: Russ Carlson: rcarlson0515@att.net
APPC Boar’s Head Feast and Festival
In December, we will be presenting our 2nd annual
intergenerational Boar’s Head Festival. We will have a
community presentation on Saturday, December 20 at 6
p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.
Tickets for Saturday are $5 (or $15 for families of four or
more) which includes dinner.
Tickets will be available in the church office in
November. You only need a ticket if you are
coming to the dinner on Saturday. Just pick up your
numbered ticket and then pay at the door when you
arrive for the dinner. There will also be a Freewill
Offering to support our music ministries on Saturday
evening.
What we need you to do now is sign up in the church
office if you would like to participate. What talents and
gifts can you bring to this endeavor? Besides singing in
the choir, most parts simply require putting on an
amazing costume and processing in and out of the
sanctuary!
As a reminder, a Boar’s Head Festival is a reenactment of a medieval tradition dating back to the
1400’s in Europe. The royalty of the European countries
would gather to celebrate the birth of Christ. Many carols
would be sung, ending with the scene of the
Nativity. Afterwards the guests would gather and enjoy a
feast together. It was a way for powerful royalty of the
day to “meet and greet” each other as they celebrated
their Christian faith.
We hope you will join us in celebrating the birth of
Jesus in this very unique and “old worldly” traditional
way. Please sign up in the church office today!!
Contacts: Amy Bowerman, Andrea Carlson
and Christian Kreipke
Bucket Club Changes Names and
November Meeting
The Bucket Club - an active group for the over 55
age group invites you to attend our November 20th
event as we gather at 1 p.m. in the parlor to enjoy
fellowship and snacks, vote on a new name for our
group, and enjoy watch the film God is Not Dead.
Please bring all your ideas and join us. Please
note this meeting is one week earlier due to
Thanksgiving.
Looking ahead: In December, we plan to attend
the Saturday Boar’s Head Feast and Festival!
APPLLE: Health and Wellness
Classes for November
Wednesday, November 5 at 7:15 p.m.
Essential Oils led by Suzan Higgins
How did the ancients cure a body ache or
disinfect a wound? Learn abut essential oils and
the healing/therapeutic properties God gave the
plants from which they come.
Wednesday, November 12 at 7:15 p.m.
Tai Chi led by Barb Reynolds
Tai Chi is a graceful form of exercise that’s
used for stress reduction and for a variety of
other health conditions using gentle, flowing
movements. Please join us.
Page 6
Presbyterian Women of APPC
APPC Moderator’s Message - Pat McBride, 2014-2015
313-732-5871 - patmcbride0804@gmail.com
November is upon us. It is a time to reflect on all we
have and be thankful to God
And since its November, that means it’s time for our
Holiday Extravaganza -CRAFT FAIR AND PW BAKE SALE
- Saturday, November 8, 2014 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in
the entire Fellowship Building.
Come shop, buy lots of homemade crafts, eat lunch, and
buy lots of baked goods! Proceeds from craft show supports
outreach mission work and proceeds from bake sale support
the work of APPC Presbyterian Women.
Holiday Extravaganza - APPC CRAFT FAIR—NOVEMBER 8
WANTED- Lots of baked goods. You need not be an
active member of Presbyterian Women to donate bake
goods. Last year the amount of baked goods was down
and so were our proceeds. Please help by donating labeled
baked goods. They can be dropped off on Friday or
Saturday before 9:30 a.m. AND, don’t forget to shop and
bring your friends! New this year - a gluten-free table.
APPC Gathering on November 18 (Parlor)
Please join us at 7 p.m. in the Parlor as Dorcas-Rebekah
circle will be presenting a special program called
“Conversations on the Porch- Story of Dorcas.”
After our program, we will enjoy fellowship and
refreshments.
What is a Presbyterian Woman and Who Can
Attend?
A Presbyterian Woman is any woman that attends a
Presbyterian Church. You do not have to be a member of
our church or of a circle to attend. Currently we have six
circles. We would love to increase the number of circles. If
you are interested in joining a small group of women for
fellowship and Bible study, please take this as my personal
invitation for you to call me and talk.
If you already have a group of friends that would like to
get together for Christian fellowship once a month, you
could even start your own circle. Please contact Pat
McBride if you would like to discuss this further.
Future dates:
The PWPD Women's Retreat is March 14, 2015 at Royal Oak,
First. The keynote speaker is Pat Johnson (from Royal Oak, First)
May 6, 2015, Allen Park Presbyterian Church is hosting
PWPD Gathering. Please keep this date open so you can
help and/or attend.
June 18-21, 2015 is the PW-PC USA’s Churchwide
Gathering in Minneapolis, MN. The 2015
Churchwide Gathering of Presbyterian Women will
be held June 18-21, 2015 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Make plans to join us. Registration for the event is just
$395 (less than in 2012); with hotel rooms at the
Hyatt Regency at $169 per night (up to four guests
per room). Registration will open January 15, 2015.
The theme of the Gathering is "One Body, One
Spirit." based on 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.
As always, workshops, plenary sessions, worship,
mission opportunities and all Gathering programming
will explore the theme in the context of a diverse,
faithful sisterhood. Watch 2015 Call to the
Gathering on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rtB_PnYtho
Please put it on your calendar and plan on joining
me. The last Churchwide Gathering was so inspiring
for me, I want everyone to experience it!
November Dates to Remember:
►
►
►
►
►
►
►
5th - PWPD Gathering at The Second Mile Center
7th - Please drop off baked goods
8th - Holiday Extravaganza—Craft Fair and PW Bake
Sale
3rd and 17th - Piecemakers at noon in Art Room
18th - APPW Gathering 7 pm in the Parlor
25th - Bible Study Leaders—6 pm Parlor
25th - PWCT 7 pm Parlor
2014 Ingathering Report
A message from Kim Ammon,
Ingathering Coordinator
Once again FALL arrives. LEAVES are
falling and trees are becoming radiant with colors.
As usual, my living room takes on it’s yearly look.
PILED with generous gifts from our Presbyterian
Women. Yes, it’s Ingathering time.
Faithfully these ladies cut back on their CIDER
and DONUTS, but did not FALL short. Our quota
was RAKED in and delivered.
Passing PUMPKINS, MULCHED LEAVES and
FALL DECORATIONS, we arrived (no, not by
broom) to Westminster Presbyterian Church on
October 20 to drop off our donations
(value:$2,344.90).
Then off to the CIDER MILL! Happy FALL and
thank you all for your generosity. Kim
Page 7
APPLLE: World Religions Part II:
Eastern Traditions
The world seems to be getting smaller every day. In
our diverse society, we find folks of all faiths in many
aspects of our daily lives. As Christians, we are called
to encounter our neighbors with a spirit of love and
peace and with the knowledge that we are all beloved
children of God. Join us as we explore Eastern faiths
and cultures. We will have the opportunity to meet,
chat with, and share a table with our brothers and
sisters of other faiths who live and worship right here
in Michigan.
Nov 15—Travel to Still Point Buddhist Temple in
Detroit: bus leaves at 9:15 am; Sign up by 11/9.
Dec 7—Travel to Gurdwara Sahib in Plymouth for a
tour and meal with our Sikh hosts: bus leaves at 12:15
p.m. sign up by 12/1.
Deacons on the Streets: Feeding the
Needy (Nov. 30)
Sunday, November 30th, following the second
service, the Deacons will be taking the church van to the
streets of Detroit, to feed the homeless. How can you
help? By doing any of the following:
►
►
►
►
Make a batch, or a double batch of chili. Bring it to
the basement kitchen between the first and second
service. It can be hot or cold.
Donate individually packaged items - water, juice,
apples, oranges, carrots and celery sticks, chips,
crackers, cookies, Rice Krispie treats.
It you have gently used clothes, especially sweatshirts,
coats, hats, gloves, shoes, socks or back packs, there
is always a need.
Toiletry bags are also distributed. We are collecting
the following travel sized items: Shampoo, soap,
toothpaste, toothbrushes, lotion, combs, disposable
razor blades, feminine products, etc. (these items can
be placed in the collection barrel in the coat closet.
So we can prepare and plan, please drop items off in
the parlor, basement kitchen refrigerator, or on a table in
the basement pass through, before Sunday, November
23rd. Be sure and label the items as streets of Detroit.
We also need people to come with us to serve. We set
up tables on the sidewalk, and the people come. We
typically serve 100 plus in twenty minutes. All of your
help is appreciated. Contact: Susan McCausland
GriefShare Winter Workshop
GriefShare is a grief recovery support group where
you can find help and healing for the hurt of losing a
loved one led by Norma Bentley (Deacon/Stephen
Minister) and Barry Davis (Deacon). You will learn
what to expect during your grief journey, especially
the first year after the death of a loved one through
videos and group discussions.
Join us for our next 8-week session beginning
Monday, November 17 (through January 5, 2015)
from 7 to 9 p.m. in the parlor. The cost for materials
is $20. You do not need to feel alone during this
difficult time. For more information or to register,
please use the link: http://www.griefshare.org/
groups/42395
Norma Bentley - norma@appc.us
Barry Davis - barry@appc.us
GriefShare: Surviving the Holidays
GriefShare: Surviving the Holidays is a
one-day free grief workshop dealing with
surviving the holiday season while grieving
the loss of a loved one. It is meant to be a
warm, encouraging and helpful event.
Join leaders Norma Bentley and Barry Davis on
Thursday, November 13, 2014 from 7 to 9 p.m.
in the Parlor. Registration link: http://
www.griefshare.org/holidays/events/17288
Cub Scouts Rake and Run
Our Cub Scouts will be out and about raking
leaves on Sunday, November 9. If you or someone
you know could use a little help with this task, please
contact Rita Javorski in the church office to be included
on the list.
This is a free service, but the troop asks that you
please have lawn and leaf bags available.
Can and Bottle Drive to
support our youth - drop off your clean returnables in
the alley behind the Fellowship Building from 8:30 to
noon. (November 9)
Mission Sunday Join us
at Touch/Down as we eat pizza and make cards for
people on our staff/prayer list etc. (12:30 p.m. on
Sunday, November 23)
Noisy Offering - save your
spare change and help our youth support Heifer
International Project. (November 30)
Page 8
Parish Nurse’s Corner
Chris Mayer, R.N.—313-575-5853 - cmayer83@gmail.com
Starting “Conversations” with Older Adult’s Before the Needs Arise
Seventy percent of us will need long-term care after age 65, yet few of us openly discuss care needs and wishes.
Care Conversations™ is bringing people together to change this conversation trend. We’re providing information
and resources to get people talking with loved ones, health care providers and industry experts. Working together,
we can plan and prepare for our future and ensure care needs are met every step of the way.
There may be a time when you or your loved one will no longer be able to care for themselves independently.
Care Conversations focuses on people and the honest discussions needed to plan and prepare for the future.
Finding care may seem difficult or even overwhelming at first. Whether you’re seeking care for yourself, or for a
loved one such as a spouse, parent or sibling, Care Conversations can help you every step of the way. Worry less
about tomorrow. Start a conversation today.
Care Conversations with your loved ones
To find the right care solution, you must first know what you’re looking for. Keep in mind care wants are just as
important as care needs. Talking with your loved ones may seem difficult at times, but regular discussions ensure
everyone is working toward the same goal. Care Conversations™ help loved ones discover personal preferences
and wishes that they might not have otherwise known. These insights help narrow the search criteria and make it
easier to find the right care solution. By speaking openly and honestly about priorities and concerns, you can
identify areas that require further research or discussion.
Five Tips For Successful Care Conversations
Many of us avoid Care Conversations because we assume loved ones don’t want to discuss sensitive matters.
These perceptions may not be reality. Loved ones may want to talk. The process may be easier than we think. We
simply won’t know until we try, so it’s important to push past initial reservations and commit to taking action.
Once you’ve made the decision to act, how do you go about initiating a delicate conversation? Even with the best
intentions and strong determination, you may find yourself speechless.
To improve your chances of Care Conversation success, follow these five tips:
1. Address the Who, Where, and When - The right mix of people, place, and timing will help set the right
tone for a pleasant, productive Care Conversation. Because Care Conversations are likely to affect everyone,
it’s worth trying to involve everyone. While it may seem tough to find a quiet moment amidst the hustle and
bustle of busy lives, try to find a place and time when people are likely to be relaxed and receptive.
2. Be flexible - Unforeseen circumstances can alter even the best-laid plans. However eager we may be to “get it
over with”, a Care Conversation should not be forced or rushed. Allow discussions to evolve naturally. Plan for
a few hiccups. If a family member is running late or your loved one seems to be having a bad day, consider
rescheduling. When you are able to start a conversation, be flexible about how long the discussion lasts and
what, if anything, is accomplished.
3. Take the “right” approach - Everyone’s situation is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all “right”
approach. Consider your loved one’s unique preferences and tailor your tactics accordingly. Here are three
techniques that can help you start a Care Conversation:
Start with Small Talk - Look for natural conversation starters. For example, if you’re helping an aging
relative run errands or cook, you might ask, “What’s the best part of the day for you?” or “What’s the
hardest?” Giving loved ones the opportunity to talk on their own terms makes Care Conversations casual
and less intimidating.
Turn The Tables - Talk about others in similar situations to avoid putting loved ones on the defensive
about their own circumstances. Ask aging relatives if they cared for their parents or grandparents. If so, what
was the experience like? What might they have done differently? You can also share your life and care plans.
Mention your steps to prepare a will or advance directive, and ask for input and assistance.
(Continued on page 10)
Our Prayer List
Beverly Markus (Mother of Kerri Van)
FOR THE FAMILIES OF THOSE WHO HAVE DIED
Stephen Popy (by Cheryl Blevins and family)
October 18 Dennis Tomalka
October 17 Robert Green (Son of Margaret Green
October 16 Patricia Templin (Mother of Larry (Ellen) Templin,
Sister of the late Carol Maki)
HAVING SURGERY
Laurie Moscarello (Nov. 7)
RECOVERING - SURGERY/HOSPITALIZATION
Rick Roy (Friend of Sue Theeck)
Ted Mazans
Cindy Trudeau (by the Bono family and the grandmother of
CeCe and Mandy Bono)
HAVING TESTS/PROCEDURES/TREATMENT
Pam Ronan (Friend of Sue Theeck)
Jennifer Hilyer-Jones
Neolla Costner (Friend of Wayne Cuthbert)
Diane L. Smith (Daughter of Evelyn Smith)
Page 9
Gail Rigdon (Sister-in-law of Jill & Gary Kleinsmith)
Kathy Moy (Sister of Margaret Fischer)
Valerie Geter (Friend of Jennifer & Julius Jones)
David Ray Allen (Brother of Patty Allen)
Laura Krajewski (Friend of Rita Javorski)
Taylor Hadley (Niece of Tracy Cruts)
Valarie Bernard (Niece of Irene Barazsu)
Leslie Hibbler (Friend of Phil & Nancy Atkinson)
Judy Salucci (Daughter of Mary Ogdie/Sister Roger Ogdie)
Nick Duckett and Laura Bruce (Friends of Jeri Knight)
Todd Graham (Friend of the Shamie Family)
Richard Findlay (Shanley/Seabloom/Shamie family)
Aaron Mei (Friend of Shanley/Shamie/Seabloom Family)
Holly Ryan (Granddaughter of Angie Taylor)
Greg Fanfalone (Friend of Ronnie Beebe)
Brandon Law (Brother of Michael Law, Jr)
Sue Leszczynski (Godmother of Norma Bentley)
Wendy Loomis (Niece of Wendy and Steve Reimers)
Gertrude Quasada (Grandmother of Michael Law, Jr.)
FOR EMOTIONAL STRENGTH & HEALING
Betty Paisley
Georgia Luke
Joyce Poole
Susan Theeck
Vivian Brooks
Ken Lush
Vern Welch
Fern Brandt
Phyllis Jones
Michele Dam
Bob Myers
Norma Ross
Shirley Botu
Valerie Hilyer
Judy Graham
Frances Lush
Carl Schleicher Doris Ward
Leonard Saenz Dot Uren
Geri Knight
Virgie Torok
Wally Bach
Ruth Beattie
Ben Warren
Richard Henig
Ceil Pretty
Dorothy Hensel
Jim Kinard
Floyd Smith
Jen Goddard
Jim Masterson
Don & Arlene Shanley
Gloria Welch
Julius Dazy
Dick Hershberger
Winnie Frank
Jane Hilyer
Phyllis Hartman
Marlett Gaujanian
Dorothy Foucher
Dorothy Adams
Joan Reckinger
Joe Melling
Chuck & Betty Bray
Catherine Kirby
Angie Taylor
Dorothy Smith
Margaret Taliaferro
Wilma Fairbairn (Georgia Luke’s Sister/Aunt of Keith (Mary Lou)
Provost
Pattrica Woodie (Niece of Virgie Torok)
Gavin Frew (& parents Rob & Erica) (Friends of Cuthberts)
Andi Stevens (Cousin of Wayne (Megan) Cuthbert)
Kathleen Carson (Sister of Art & Barbara Jo Carson)
Barb Cabadas Reynolds (Friend of Elaine Doran)
Sharron Sherrill (Friend of Karin Kozlo and Norma Bentley)
Carman Gudin (Friend of De De Sherlock)
Cindi Miller (Mother of Kimberly Miller)
Sue Stimson (Daughter of Phyllis Froehlich)
Maryanne Froehlich (Daughter-in-law of Phyllis Froehlich)
Kimberly Smith (Granddaughter of Evelyn Smith)
Liz Crawford (Friend of Judy Martin)
Tammy & David Bridgeman (Friends of Norma Bentley)
Danielle Thurston (Michelle)\
Kate Patterson (Friend of Amy Bowerman)
Clyde Shepherd (Friend of Butch and Linda Brunelle)
Daniel, Tori & DJ Powell (Friends of Karin Kozlo)
Dana Holder (Friend of Karin Kozlo)
Katie (Diebel) Trupiano (Friend of Geri Knight)
Gail Vargo (Sister-in-law:Norma Bentley/Aunt of Karin Kozlo)
OUR JOYS
Dr. Barbara Jones-Connor, daughter of Phyllis
Jones was married to Douglas Wood on Saturday,
October 4, 2014 in Syracuse, New York.
Happily, Phyllis was able to attend her
daughter’s wedding and enjoy all the festivities.
Congratulations to all!
TOUCH/DOWN - FOURTH SUNDAY MISSION
Everyone is invited to join us for our November
Fourth Sunday (23rd) Mission project at 12:30 in
the Dining Room. We will be having pizza and
making cards for folks on our prayer list, office
staff.
We kindly encourage all of our crafty members
(card makers, Scrapbookers, etc.) to join us to help
assist the younger or less crafty folks!
Did We Miss Your Birthday?
We publish birthdays in THE LITE each week. If we somehow
missed your birthday, please call the office and let us know. We
will correct the error in our church records. We are happy to
announce other special joys too - just let us know!
Allen Park Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
7101 Park Avenue, Allen Park, MI 48101
313-383-0100 - FRONT DESK Ext. 0
Kerri A. Van Editor, Ext. 13
Email: kvan@appc.us
Website: http://www.appc.us (under construction)
Be our friend on Facebook for the latest info.
Twitter: APPC1
Page 10
(Continued from page 8)
Express A Worry - Voicing concern can help loved ones see care discussions in a new light. You might say,
“I’m worried that someday I’ll be making decisions on your behalf. I want to be sure I make the right ones.”
This approach puts Care Conversations in the proper context of cooperative planning.
4. Ask specific questions - Be specific in your questions to fully understand the situation and level of need.
You might ask: Do you feel comfortable driving to the bank? What about driving at night? How often do
you go to the grocery store? Is it hard to bring in groceries? What do you worry about? How does it feel to be
80 (or 90 or 100)? What do you talk about with your friends? What would you like me to know that I don’t
yet? You don’t have to tiptoe around questions; you can also ask what weighs on your heart. For example, if
your loved one seems to struggle with a fear of dying, you might simply ask, “Are you afraid?” Honest
questions can make difficult situations easier, and offer greater peace of mind.
5. Remember, it’s not about you - The goal at this point is to simply gather information, listen and observe.
While we can certainly help our loved ones make choices, we should be careful not to take over the decisionmaking process. If Care Conversations don’t go as well as you had hoped, don’t take it personally.
Acknowledging and addressing changing care needs can be very difficult for everyone involved. Focus on
small wins. If loved ones are reluctant to discuss topics such as personal finance, you might ask what bank
they use or where they keep important documents. If a question prompts an unfavorable response, simply
say, “I didn’t mean to upset you. I want to make sure I understand what you need.” You can always take a
break for a few minutes or even a few days. Some conversations will turn out better than others. The
important thing is to just keep trying and keep talking.
God’s Richest Blessings to You, Chris Mayer, Parish Nurse
Source: http://careconversations.org/
Upcoming Board Meetings
DEACONS (7 p.m. Parlor)
Tuesday, November 4
Tuesday, December 2
SESSION (7:30 p.m. Parlor)
Committee Meetings at 6:30 p.m. in various rooms
Saturday, November 8 at 11:30 p.m. (Parlor)
For the purpose of accepting new members
Tuesday, November 11
Tuesday, December 9
COMMUNION
Sunday, November 2 – Team B (Intinction)
Sunday, December 7 - Team A (Plates)
Wednesday, December 24 Christmas Eve 10 p.m.
Team B (Plates)
T H E GO O D WO R D
A publication of Allen Park
Presbyterian Church (USA)
Kerri A. Van, Editor
313-383-0100, Ext. 13 - Cell: 734-552-7628 - kvan@appc.us
If you wish to have an article included in this
publication, you must submit your information
to Rita Javorski prior to the deadline. The
deadline for the December/January issue
is Wednesday, November 12, 2014 - 4 p.m.
For more info: rita@appc.us
TRUSTEES (7:30 p.m Oasis Room)
Tuesday, November 18
Tuesday, December 16
FREE BLOOD
PRESSURE CLINICS
Endowment Meetings:
Monday, December 8 (Tower Room) 6:45 p.m.
Monday, March 9, 2015 (Tower Room) 6:45 p.m.
Monday, June 8, 2015 (Tower Room) 6:45 p.m.
We provide a free blood pressure
clinic for your good health once a month on the
second Sunday at 9:30 a.m. in the parlor. Please
join us - it could change your life for the better.
Next Clinic: November 9 with Jeff and Carrie
O’Riley
Douglas H. Blaikie, M. Div, Pastor
dhblaikie@sbcglobal.net - Ext. 12
Michelle James, M. Div, Associate Pastor
michelle@appc.us - Ext. 16
Dr. Rev. Keith O. Provost, Parish Associate
kprovost@sbcglobal.net - Ext. 51
Rev. Levon G. King, Parish Assistant
levonking@wowway.com
Rev. William Colwell - Pastor Emeritus
Judith A. Ouellette, Clerk of Session
omlet155@gmail.com
Richard Huebler., President of the Trustees
richue35@gmail.com
Kip Horvath, Corporate Treasurer
Susan McCausland, Moderator Board of Deacons
susanmmccausland@gmail.com
Christine Mayer, Parish Nurse
cmayer83@gmail.com - Ext. 17
Art Hughes, Stephen Ministry Leader
arthughes1942@gmail.com
Krista Nappa, Kids Hope Director
knappa23@yahoo.com
Pat McBride, Presbyterian Women Moderator
patmcbride0804@gmail.com
Music Department
Andrea Carlson - acarlson1964@att.net
Young Singers Choir Director, Flutist
Amy Bowerman- amyloubowerman@gmail.com
Youth Connection Choir Director
Christine El-Hage - Pianist, Adult Choir Accompanist,
Youth Connection Choir Accompanist,
Young Singers Accompanist, pianist
Dr. Christian Kreipke - Organist, Pianist
Carolyn Marengere - carolynm@wowway.com
Young Ringers Choir Director
Wendy Reimers - wendy@appc.us
Adult Choir Director, Handbell Choir Director,
Pianist, Accompanist, Organist
James Sargent - jimsgt@gmail.com - Pianist
Page 11
Back Page Cheat Shee t
Ushering Teams /Counting Teams
Nov. 2 (Communion) ---- Ushering 4/Counting 1
Nov 2—DST ends—Fall Back One Hour!!
Nov. 9 ----------------------- Ushering 5/Counting 2
Nov. 16---------------------- Ushering 1 /Counting 3
Nov. 23---------------------- Ushering 2/Counting 4
Nov. 30---------------------- Ushering 3/Counting 5
Dec. 7 (Communion) ---- Ushering 4/Counting 6
Van Teams
#1
#2
#3
#4
#5
-
Captain:
Captain:
Captain:
Captain:
Captain:
Barry Davis - Nov. 2 & Dec. 7
Bob Ammon - Nov. 9 & Dec. 14
Chuck Ouellette - Nov. 16 & Dec. 21
Kevin Vaughan - Nov 23 & Dec 28
Dan Angell, Sr., - Nov. 30
Sunday Coffee Hour—The BLEND
**please note The Blend has been moved to the Parlor.
Nov. 2 (Communion) ---- Phoebe/Hannah Circle
Nov. 9 ----------------------- Adult Choir
Nov. 16---------------------- Elisabeth Circle
Nov. 23---------------------- Session
Nov. 30---------------------- Session
Dec. 7 (Communion) ---- Trustees
Dec. 14 ---------------------- Trustees
Front Desk Volunteers (Sunday)
Nov. 2 (Communion) ---- Phoebe/Hannah Circle
Nov. 9 ----------------------- Adult Choir
Nov. 16---------------------- Elisabeth Circle
Nov. 23---------------------- Session
Nov. 30---------------------- Session
Dec. 7 (Communion) ---- Trustees
Dec. 14 ---------------------- Trustees
CHURCH STAFF
Ruth Beattie - Organist Emeritus
Rita Javorski - Ext. 11 - rita@appc.us
Office Manager
Weddings at APPC - To book a wedding, contact Rita
Kerri Van – Ext. 13 - kvan@appc.us
Communications Manager
Javorski to reserve your date with a $100.00 deposit
at 313-383-0100, Ext. 11 or rita@appc.us
Sextons: Michael Harris, Sarah Klein, Natalie Marengere,
Randall Nicholls, JR Whiteford
Funeral Sextons: Chuck Ouellette, Katy Rodriguez,
Gary Robinson, Randall Nicholls
Virginia Parent - Ext. 15 - virginia@appc.us
Membership Secretary
Irene Barazsu - Ext. 18 - irene@appc.us
Contributions Secretary, Payroll
Janet Morton - Ext. 10 - janet@appc.us
Financial Secretary
Nick Mikolajewski - Custodian - nick@appc.us
First Friday Film Fest
Daylight Saving
time ends on
November 2, 2014.
Friday, November 7at 7 p.m.
in the Middle School Room
Movie: “O Brother, Where Art Thou”
Let the Cub Scouts Help You with Your
Thanksgiving Dinner
Support APPC's Cub Scout Pack 1051 this
Thanksgiving season!
The Cub Scouts will be in the Narthex on Sunday,
November 2 and 9 selling Dearborn
Sausage brand hams, kielbasa, hot dogs
and more!
All orders must be completed by
November 17, 2014 and will be here in
time for Thanksgiving!
The Cub Scouts will be available to deliver orders
to church members if needed. Thank you in
advance for your support of Pack 1051!!!
An adventure comedy film by Joel and Ethan Coen,
starring George Clooney, John Turturro, and Tim Blake
Nelson, along with a star-studded supporting cast. Set in
1937 rural Mississippi during the Great Depression, the
film's story is a modern satire loosely based on
Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey.
Concessions available for a $1 donation.
PG-13 for some violence and language
th
er You
Novemb
ed!!
enclos
r
a
d
n
e
al
C
Allen Park Presbyterian Church (USA)
7101 Park Avenue
Allen Park, Michigan 48101-2091
(313) 383-0100 - appc@appc.us
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