Announcements
NAMIWalk Your Way
On May 21 the Justice and Service Ministry is sponsoring the "NAMIWalks Your Way" right here in Hopewell. We will gather at HPC at 10:00 AM and walk 2 miles (or as far as you are able). If you can't walk with us on May 21, click here for the map, and walk another day on your own. Our team name is TEAM HPC AND FRIENDS. DONATE by clicking here. Contact Becky Ludeke or the church office with questions. PLEASE PARK ON BROAD STREET FOR THE WALK.
Clerk’s Corner: Session Highlights April 2022
A very significant part of Session’s work consists of nurturing the faith journeys of this church community. The April meeting gave us joyful opportunities to do that. Firstly, we met with two remarkable young men: Logan Dendis and Lynedon Horton. Over the last months they have been working with their mentors (Doug McCleery and Chris Pauley) to explore what confirmation means for them, and in preparing their faith statements. It is Session’s responsibility to meet with confirmation candidates, to hear these faith statements and to decide if the candidates are ready to be confirmed. Session were beyond impressed with the maturity, thoughtfulness and moral character of these two teenagers.
Session also endorsed our intern Ruth Amadio’s application to be accepted by the Presbytery as and Inquirer for Ordination. By the time you read these words we expect to have done the same for intern Breeann Blumenthal. They will remain under our care as they make their way through this process.
We also heard details of the upcoming New Members’ Class in May. We look forward to welcoming more than a dozen new members this spring!
As always, we lifted up in prayer all those in the congregation experiencing loss, illness, and other challenges.
The Generosity Ministry continues to bring forward recommendations for dispersal of grants from our Sharipen bequests. A grant of $5000 will be made to establish a parent support group for those with children navigating mental health issues. We recognize that this major issue in our community is one which we are called to address. The church will also make a Sharipen Grant in the amount of $42,750 in continued support of Deborah Jodrey’s work with the Hopewell Youth Collective.
The church’s project to renovate the sanctuary took an important next step forward with Session’s authorization of the signing of an agreement with HMR Architects. They will provide Architectural Design, Construction Documents and Construction Phase Services.
Other items in a busy meeting were: approval for the Girl Scouts to use the sanctuary for their awards ceremony on May 22nd; authorization of worship in Washington Crossing Park on October 9th (as part of the planned church campout weekend); and approval of revised Personnel policies for paid vacation for full time employees.
All this important work was completed in less than three hours. I continue to feel blessed in serving these hard-working elders and our firm but kind moderator Pastor Melissa!
Ian Burrow
Clerk of Session
New Members Class
Sundays 12-12:45 after Fellowship Time:
During the month of May our Worship & Wonder time will be dedicated to our new member class. All those interested in becoming members are asked to attend the following. In addition, long time members are also encouraged to join for the Worship & Wonder classes, so we can each share our experiences of HPC and everyone gets a refresher!
May 8 - What does it mean to be a Presbyterian? - 12-12:45pm - Ian Burrow, Clerk of Session
May 15 - What does it mean to be a member of a church family? - 12-12:45pm - Pastor Melissa
May 22 - New Member Cook Out at Manse with Session at 6pm This is required for all new members and will include a time of sharing with Session about what has drawn you to HPC and how you hope to grow in your love for God, for the family of HPC, and for the community through membership. Then Session will vote officially to receive you.
May 29- New Member Sunday! During worship you will be officially received by the HPC congregation!
Session News and Updates from the Clerk’s Corner: February-March 2022
It might be easy to get the impression that being a serving elder on our Session is no different from being on the board of (write the name of Your Favorite Non-Profit or Community Organization here). Yes, Session has to deal with a lot of matters related to our buildings and grounds, our staff, our finances, our membership, and so on. Not glamorous, but important.
But this isn’t the crucial part. Here is a reminder of what our Presbyterian Book of Order has to say:
The session shall have responsibility for governing the congregation and guiding its witness to the sovereign activity of God in the world, so that the congregation is and becomes a community of faith, hope, love, and witness.
Ruling Elders are chosen by the congregation to discern and measure its fidelity to the Word of God, and to strengthen and nurture its faith and life.
These are serious responsibilities. How does Session seek to fulfill them?
A simple answer is through prayer. All meetings start and end with prayer, and we quite often stop for prayer at other points in the meetings (especially during difficult conversations!).
In addition to that, our current practice is to engage in a variety of discussions and contemplations early in the meeting. As you might expect, these are kept fresh and engaging and through the creativity of Pastor Melissa.
With that in mind, here are the highlights of the last couple of months. Session has:
Continued to review and update our practices in worship and in the building as the Pandemic remains with us. This has included the return of Fellowship Time after Sunday worship!
Approved the Baptism of Laura Skillman on June 19th (our first baptism since the start of the Pandemic!).
Approved communion on each Sunday in Lent.
Added additional people to our communion teams.
Approved the assignment of a seminary intern to lead Godly Play for the 2022-23 church year, with a budget line to support the position.
Continued to evaluate our new Ministry structure.
Received recommendations from the Sanctuary Task Force concerning the scope of the renovation project.
Discussed the challenges of mental health issues.
Voted to have our revised personnel policies reviewed by an outside legal consultant.
Voted to send $181,600 to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for the victims of the war in Ukraine.
Approved the payments of bills incurred in maintaining our buildings and grounds.
Ian Burrow
Clerk of Session
Creation Care - Foraging Forest (April 2nd)
We are so fortunate to call this region of NJ our home. Hopewell and surrounding areas are located within the Sourland Mountain region, a unique and beautiful ~90 Square mile area featuring interesting geology, rich forests, numerous streams and wetland areas, wildflowers, and a wide range of wildlife. As children of God, we are called to care for each other, and we are also called to cherish, protect, and restore this beautiful Earth, God’s creation, and gift to us all.
Creation Care is one of several areas of focus for the Engaging in Justice and Service Ministry of this church. In honor of Earth Day this month, this ministry partnered with the Sourland Conservancy, a local environmental advocacy group, to assist with ongoing land restoration work in a nearby special place, known as the foraging forest, within Hopewell Park. Some of you have been there before and generously contributed your time and energy during previous land stewardship efforts.
On April 2nd, another hardy group of 8 met here in Fellowship Hall and strolled over to the Foraging Forest during picture-perfect, early spring weather! We were met by Laurie Cleveland, Executive Director of the Sourland Conservancy and two of her knowledgeable land stewards to guide us in our tasks.
We became well acquainted with invasive Japanese honeysuckle, which can spread profusely and choke out native plants, if not kept in check. We successfully removed it (roots and all!) from rows of much more desirable and re-emerging native plants, such as strawberries, blackberries and raspberries. We also learned about an invasive insect, the Japanese mantis, which is larger than our native preying mantis, and which can kill native butterflies -and even hummingbirds!
We spotted & removed numerous egg cases of this invasive insect. Our Sourland Conservancy friends are extremely grateful for our past and ongoing land stewardship support. For this recent effort, a sincere thank-you to Ryan and Abigail Maclean, Joanne Tonkin, Doug and Carlana Sargent, Liz Blankstein, and my husband, Bob. If you want to learn more about this work, please feel free to speak with any of us, and keep an eye out for future similar opportunities -- Thanks!
Submitted by Anne Hayton
Friends in Service Here (FISH)
FISH is a ministry that we, as a church, have decided to support this year.
During the spring of 1970, the pastors of the Hopewell Council of Churches began to think of beginning a FISH program for Hopewell Valley. They viewed a film regarding the history of FISH and a book titled “F.I.S.H. for My People”. Originated in England, this neighbor helping neighbor program would involve volunteers from the community. By July, 1970, a telephone system was established to provide help to those in need. Serving as dispatchers were the Beringers, Wilburs, Pedersons and Deerings, all members of HPC.
Various local organizations began to spread the information about FISH. In the spring of 1971, the churches of Hopewell provided an opportunity for congregants to sign up as volunteers. Under the leadership of Pricilla Hunt, Chair of the Women’s Club of Hopewell and HPC member, the group designated FISH as its 1971-1972 community improvement project. Scout Troop #920 delivered information sheets throughout Hopewell Borough. C.O.P.E. of Pennington joined to become part of FISH.
On Nov. 30, 1971, the incorporation of FISH of Hopewell Valley was received in the office of the clerk of Mercer County. Among those signing the Certificate of Incorporation were HPC members Peggy Beringer, John Piggott and Hilton Wilbur. FISH of Hopewell Valley, Inc. was underway. On August 4, 1976, a Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation indicated that the name of the Corporation is Fish of Hopewell Valley and “… the location of the principal office is 88 West Broad St., Hopewell, N.J.” It named Rev. Robert Beringer as “…the resident agent therein and in charge thereof…”.
By 1973, the kinds of help offered by FISH included “General Services” such as providing food whether prepared in the recipient’s home or provided as a ready-to-eat or frozen meal. It also included child care, transportation in privately owned vehicles, housework and clothing. “Medical and Personal Services” included blood donation, tutoring, nursing care and teenage companionship. “Information and Community Services” included helping to find a minister, medical doctor or nurse plus marital counseling, alcoholism counseling, adoption agencies and youth counseling. Eventually two services were the most needed: food and transportation. In 1981, FISH coordinator for Pennington, Ruth Malek, reported 1,069 meals had been delivered. During 1993, in Hopewell Valley, meals delivered increased to 4,145 with 448 transports provided. As time went by, the need for food became greater than the need for transportation.
Since FISH is a non-profit organization, it greatly depends on the generosity of the community. The first donation to FISH was $130 from the Hopewell Council of Churches recorded on Dec. 16, 1971. Then local companies began to contribute. Western Electric provided 5-7 meals per day followed by Educational Testing Service providing meals for the next 11 years until late 1987. Mobil Research followed by providing approximately 14 meals per day until in closed in 1995. Since then, Pennington Market has been providing meals which include an entrée, soup and a sandwich. The cost is only $7.00 paid by the recipient with scholarships from donations if unable to pay.
Many volunteers have donated their time and energy over the years. For example, in 1982, the FISH Committee involved participants from St. Alphonsus, Hopewell Methodist, Pennington Methodist, Titusville Presbyterian and HPC. Barbara Deering, teacher at Hopewell elementary School and HPC member, served as acting coordinator from 1989 until she moved to North Carolina in 1995.Connie Dixon became Hopewell Coordinator in 1995 with assistance from Jane Petrie as Meals Coordinator. Ruth Malek and Betsy Barlow both served as Pennington Coordinators in the 1990’s. Over the years, Bob and Barbara Peterson have served as dispatchers and drivers. Serving currently as drivers are Pat Swartz and Doug Sargent. Carlana Sargent has served as a FISH volunteer since the 1980’s and continues to dedicate her time and energy having served as treasurer and currently serving as dispatcher and recipient of meals from Pennington Market for distribution. As dispatcher she calls the drivers for the next day and is available for incoming calls addressing new meals needed and any changes in schedules that need to be made. There are two routes set up for the drivers: Pennington – Titusville and Hopewell Borough and surrounding area. Currently there are 12 dispatchers and 42 drivers but more people who are willing to lend a helping hand are needed.
Currently FISH is overseen by co-coordinators, Benita Wittenborn and Nella Hamtil with Terri Riley serving as treasurer. FISH, now a half-century old organization, continues to be truly a neighbor to neighbor, grassroots group of community members serving not only meals but providing love and compassion along the way!
Resources
Carlana Sargent
Connie Dixon
Ryan MacLean
Dr. Brian Shetler
Rev. Robert Beringer
Ian Burrow
Report of the Sanctuary Task Force 4/1/2022
The Sanctuary Task Force would like to thank all those who participated in the recent round table meetings regarding the improvements to the Sanctuary. Prior to the meetings, we went through an extensive process of discernment to understand the needs and requirements for the Sanctuary to serve the congregation for the next thirty years. Your feed back in the meetings was important and resulted in further refinement of the potential scope of the project, which is still being designed. Here is how we are responding to the feedback:
We are planning to stay with restoring the existing side-aisle stained glass windows. We will study whether to add an energy panel inside or outside.
The window project will be separated from the rest of the Sanctuary design and done on a phased basis going forward based on the condition of the windows. Bids will be sought from several stained glass companies to provide best value to HPC. This project will be overseen directly by Building and Grounds which will reduce the architectural design fees.
The one window that will be restored as part of the Sanctuary project will be the one related to the reconstruction of the wall at the former exterior doors to the prior ramp.
We believe that there was general affirmation on the elimination of the closets at the front of the Sanctuary and the design of appropriate and functional new case work.
With the positive feedback, we will proceed with closing off and flooring over the stair to the basement. There will be a new ramp to provide full accessibility to a raised platform at this location.
There was affirmation on making significant improvements to lighting and sound which will continue to be refined during the design with assistance from the architect and their expert consultants.
The ratio of chairs to pews will be weighted more heavily to pews, which will enhance seating capacity.
The number and size of TV monitors will continue to be studied along with possibilities for retracting them when not in use or needed.
The replacement of Sacramental Furniture is being removed from the project and can be addressed in the future on an as needed basis.
The design and placement of the Cross and Christ candle will continue to be addressed in this project.
Bell storage and storage of sound equipment will remain a high priority in the planning.
We will continue to emphasize flexibility to provide for the many ways that God may lead us to use the Sanctuary space, including possible changes in capacity depending on the usage.
In addition, we have asked Session to prayerfully discern how God might be calling us to pair this work on our sanctuary with an act of generosity, recognizing once again that this amazing gift we have isn’t simply for us but for the expanding God’s mission—near and far.
Thanks again to all for their participation and feedback.
Michael J. Mills
for the Sanctuary Task Force
Foraging Forest - April 2nd - Mark your calendars!
Come explore a special area in Hopewell Park and join us in celebrating God’s creation! Among other responsibilities as children of God, we are called to cherish, protect, and restore this Earth, God’s creation and gift to us all. In honor of Earth Day, the Engaging in Justice and Service Ministry is partnering with the Sourland Conservancy to assist with ongoing restoration work in a foraging forest within Hopewell Park. Learn more and be sure to view the 2 min video here! : https://sourland.org/foraging-forest/. For this event, we’ll be helping to remove invasive Japanese honeysuckle and expanding the meadow/preparing the ground, so Hopewell Elementary students can plant native wildflowers later this spring.
Date: Saturday April 2nd Rain date: April 9th (Gather in Fellowship at 8:45 AM to walk over and begin work at 9:00 AM. If you need to arrive later, reach out to Anne Hayton for directions)
What to Bring: work gloves, pruning shears/clippers (if available), sturdy footwear/boots, water, hat and sunscreen.
Join us in experiencing and fostering the foraging forest in Hopewell Park for all to enjoy. For more information, please contact Anne Hayton (609) 466-0543. We hope to see you there!
Click here to sign up and Click here to sign the waiver required by Sourland Conservancy.
Generosity Update
The Wednesday Bible Study gathered outside to stand in solidarity and extend that support through prayer.
Through the guidance of the Generosity Ministry and Session, HPC is giving $181,600 to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) to provide support for the people of Ukraine.
As people of faith we show our Christian love to the innocent people of Ukraine who have been devastated and overcome by physical forces greater than themselves. Our faith calls us to demonstrate our love through our actions that provide a force of love--a greater force than the evil we see raining down on these courageous Ukrainian people.
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is a program of the Presbyterian Church USA that helps congregations to witness the healing love of Christ by caring for people who have experienced catastrophic events. It helps Presbyteries and Synods provide assistance by identifying strategic partnerships with international groups to ensure help gets to those in need. Pertaining to support for the people of Ukraine, PDA writes:
"We are grateful for the outpouring of prayers and calls from congregations and individuals asking how they can help. As the violence continues, the number of people being displaced internally and fleeing to neighboring countries increases by the day. In the midst of the chaos, we have sibling churches and ecumenical partners who are already providing assistance with basic items for survival. Our first priority as PDA is to provide funding to these partners on the ground.... supporting established partners who have the knowledge and expertise to carry out this important work.
... PDA anticipates that our response will include both financial and technical assistance as the network of faith communities providing humanitarian assistance grows in the months ahead.... Initial funds are also being used for emergency humanitarian aid such as food items, shelter, medicines, diapers, hygiene items, etc."
This gift is the largest donation HPC has made to a specific humanitarian cause. The money is predominantly an 11% "tithe" that comes from the most recent distribution of the Sharipen estate. This $181,600 is a combination of the $179,589.26 from the second and current distribution, plus $2,000 from the first principal totaling $181,589.26. To round the amount to an even number, $10.74 was added from HPC’s monthly tithes and offerings.
- Ruth Mortenson, Generosity Ministry
Sanctuary Proposal
The Sanctuary Task Force would like to thank everyone who was able to come out to the round table discussions to add their voice to the Sanctuary project. It is so important to us to hear your thoughts. If you didn’t have an opportunity to join the discussions, the members of the sanctuary task force would be delighted to talk with you: Michael Mills, Sandy Sherrard, Ken Fredeen, Kathie Sutton, and Pastor Melissa. Additionally, we are including a summary of the proposal below. We also invite you to write down your thoughts, and email them to the task force by emailing Kathie Sutton by March 16. Her email is tkssutton@aol.com. The following are the questions we asked round table attendees to respond to:
What excites you about this sanctuary project?
What concerns you about this sanctuary project?
After March 16, we will be going through all of your feedback and working to address it with Eric and Julie from HMR Architects as well as the HPC Session–and then we will report back!
Project Overview
Specific details about the background of this project can be found in our communication from a few weeks ago. Click here. At the round table presentations, Sandy Sherrard (Chair of Buildings & Grounds) also shared the ways that this project helps to extend the work of the “Making Connections” campaign and address maintenance concerns that have developed over the past few years.
Audio Visual
This project strives to live into our Presbyterian charge to provide for a space of worship that “encourages community, is accessible to all, and opens us to reverence for God. Worship space is not to be an escape from the world, but a place for encountering the God of all creation who gathers us in and sends us out.” Audio and visual is a big part of that. This proposal provides for a new sound system that would comprise digital mixing architecture with control via multiple cross- platform devices (e.g. iPads, Android tablets, and smartphones). Inputs would include new wired receptacles (to avoid visible cables and tripping hazards on the floor), direct input boxes to convert unbalanced electronic instrument outputs to balanced signals, suspended microphones to pick up congregational sound, new wireless microphone transmitters and receivers compatible with FCC requirements, a feed from Zoom, and a new hearing assist system to meet ADA requirements for a public assembly space. Outputs should include new sanctuary loudspeakers aimed to cover the congregational seating, a feed to Zoom, and possibly one or more monitor outputs for the band. This arrangement will allow for control of different sound system feeds by different individuals. For example, the Zoom operator could control a Zoom-specific mix that includes wireless lavalier microphones and microphones suspended within the sanctuary, while the pastor or music director could control an in- person congregation-specific mix that does not include the suspended microphones.
This may be paired with smaller screens two of which will face the congregation (allowing the congregation to see) and two of which will face the chancel (allowing the worship leaders to see).
Lighting
Addressing the glare and lighting issues in the sanctuary is a major goal of this project. The primary focus of any lighting design is considering the safety, security, and well being of the occupants as they enter and exit the Church. This takes into consideration issues like glare and sightlines. The Task Force’s proposal is to use uplighting to make it so the sanctuary is bright (enough light for the aging eye and to counteract other issues of glare, namely on the front window), accentuate the architecture of the space, and provide for a flexible lighting scheme in which fixtures would draw the eye of worshipers heavenward. On top of that, this plan accounts for digital lighting controls and apps will produce further savings by managing lighting schedules. Tablets, phones, and laptops can be programmed with an app to activate and control lighting. The control system would be connected to a network modem allowing one to control the lighting remotely.
Shading of Main Stained Glass
The Sanctuary Taskforce recognizes that as we adjust the lighting in the room the glare will change. We are hoping to address as much of the problem with interior lighting as possible (limiting any obstruction of the stained glass). That being said, should the problem persist (which it is likely to to some degree), the following ideas are being considered: interior motorized shade, self tinting glass, privacy glass, and exterior tinting. In addition to addressing the glare from this window, the proposal also plans to build a “casing” to frame window. This will be complimented by the fact that we are removing the tall cabinets and installing lower aesthetically consistent built-in storage.
Side Windows
The light in the sanctuary is also affected by the side windows. The proposal contains options to both restore the existing side windows and to replace the stained glass windows to increase functionality, insert screens, as well as increase energy efficiency. In this decision we are working to balance function, sustainability, and tradition. Either way, the plan is to replace the “old ramp doors” with windows that match the rest.
Layout & Seating
Accessibility, function, flexibility and theological aesthetic all played a key role in the proposed design for layout and seating.
Stage: This plan proposes a chancel or stage to be one step up from seating level to increase visibility and thus function. This stage is to be assembled from multiple pieces, with a semi-permanent section across the front wall. This will allow for wiring to go beneath the floor and to remain out of sight. Then there will be a front section that can be rearranged if a different layout is desired. Ramp to be installed in northeast corner to increase accessibility and ease of equipment.
Removal of Interior Stair: The existing interior stair at the front of the sanctuary is rarely used. The stair is not required by code for emergency egress. Removing the stair will free up space along the east wall and allow for a new symmetrical arrangement of built-in storage and chancel stage.
Seating: Seating is one area where we can really bring flexibility into our worship space. Holding together traditions of the past and flexibility for the future, the proposal is to continue to have both pews and chairs. The proposal is to have eight of existing pews to be refurbished and modified by cutting in two at divider and reconstructed as angled pew. The remainder of seating will be new wood chairs that can be ganged together or arranged separately, as required. This provides for flexibility in how the front of the sanctuary is used. The chairs will have upholstered seats and hymnal storage. Matching cushions will be made for the pews.
Storage
Proposed Storage Solutions:
Front Cabinets: Remove existing wood cabinets at east wall. Provide new wood lower cabinets with doors below large stained glass window. Provide new wood low storage with hinged top to left and right of new cabinets. Lowering the storage will keep it discreet and prevent detracting from the sense of openness around the east stained glass window. Fold-out choir risers could be incorporated into storage units. Existing stair to lower level to be removed. See Proposed Drawings.
A/V Room/Storage Closet: Remove existing shelves. Reorganize closet and add tiers of shelving on north and west walls to maximize storage.
Chancel Furniture
To create a cohesive space, the proposal includes recommendations to replace the chancel furniture including the pulpit/lectern, communion table, baptismal font, candle/cross, etc. This furniture will likely be commissioned from a local artist and the hope is that those artists will be connected to the life of the church and wider community. Each of the historic items will be incorporated into the life of the church in other ways. Additional items to be added include flower stands that match the chancel furniture.
Finishes
Addressing the finishes includes both addressing some maintenance needs and offering overall aesthetic cohesiveness to the space. Finishes include but are not limited to: repainting the walls and ceiling (addressing the peeling paint in the rear bay of the nave where the paint is flaking), refinishing the existing wood floor and add more so that the bulk of the space features wood flooring and adding a carpet runner (which will replace the current carpet). Updating these finishes not only address some needed maintenance but will offer a cohesiveness to this project.
Finances
This proposal outlines the proposed scope of the project (with a few options) as well as the estimated construction cost. That is $946,133. To be good financial stewards and to ensure a cohesive final product, Session has voted to take this as one project. HMR also recommends that any “order” or stages be determined during the next phase in conversation with a contractor. We do not have an estimate for the fee for the contractor at this time. The fee for the ongoing work of the architect and all consultants will most likely be 12.5% of the (unescalated) construction costs. This would be $118,750 ($28,500 of which has already been paid for the feasibility study and concept design – meaning there is approximately $90,250 yet to pay). With this in mind, the whole upcoming cost of the project would be approximately $1,036,383.
Join us at Hunterdon Hills Playhouse - May 21st
Tired of the pandemic? Join us as we return to the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse. We will be seeing Shelley Chester’s play, “I Left My Dignity in My Other Purse.” This comedy is about a retirement party that spun out of control. It stars TV actress Joyce DeWitt who was in “Three’s Company.” Twenty seats are reserved. Additional seat may be available, but not guaranteed. Please sign up as soon as possible to ensure all who want to attend are able to come. A carpool will be available from HPC.
WHEN: Saturday, May 21, Matinee (doors open at 11:30 AM)
COST: $65 per person (make check payable to Pat Swartz) - Scholarships are available!
RSVP: Lucy at 609-466-0758 or by email. (Please provide your name, email address & phone number)
Sanctuary Taskforce Round Table Presentations
At the heart of our shared life together is worship. The Presbyterian Book of Order explains this saying, “Worship of the triune God is the center of our common life and our primary way of witness to the faith, hope, and love we have in Jesus Christ” (W-1.0107). As a congregation, we have the great privilege of thinking about how we will continue to steward a sanctuary where this happens on a weekly basis.
Scope and Background of Project
After a year of hard work, prayer, study, conversation, education (and a little more prayer), the Sanctuary Task Force (Michael Mills, Sandy Sherrard, Kathie Sutton, Ken Fredeen, Doug Peterson, and Pastor Melissa) and the folks from HMR Architects (Julie Kroon & Eric Holterman), presented a feasibility study and concept design to Session. Session voted to move forward to the next step and hire HMR Architects to conduct this project.
This plan is based on your feedback. Click here to see what we learned from you all in the survey conducted this fall. In sum, the areas we addressed based on your feedback are as follows: sanctuary layout and seating, overall lighting, A/V screen, sound upgrades, side windows, front window (e.g., the need for shading, etc.), finishes (including everything from cushions and carpeting to chancel furniture) and storage.
This plan does not have every last decision perfectly mapped out—in fact in multiple circumstances it contains “options” because the task force and the architects recognize both the importance of continuing to engage the congregation and community in conversation and the need to assess the changes as they are made. For example, updating the lighting or modifying the windows may impact the specifications for A/V and technology (and vice versa). Session's approval of this feasibility study is approval to continue forward in the direction described by the Task Force and our architects.
The direction of this design hinges around the mandate session gave the Task Force: to explore changes and updates to the HPC sanctuary that would not only serve the current congregation but that would provide for those who will worship here 30 years from now. To help understand what that might look like, the Task Force explored trends in the worship styles of youth and young adults, discovering that for 20-40 year olds…
Contemplation outranks performance.
Simplicity, accessibility, and sustainability are key values.
These values parallel some of the values that our congregation currently has when it comes to our worship space. At an adult education class in September, participants were asked to rank the following values when it came to the design and use of the sanctuary space.
Those values were: flexibility, tradition, sustainability, future financial implications, present financial implications, theological aesthetic, and accessibility and function. Together we learned that HPC’s top three values were:
Accessibility & Function: By this we mean the importance of providing for folks of different ages, abilities, and circumstances to see/hear/move/use the space.
Theological Aesthetic The PCUSA defines this as “a space that is set apart for worship should encourage community and open us to reverence for God. It is not to be an escape from the world but a place for encountering the God of all creation who gathers us in and sends us out.”
Flexibility By this we mean that this space will serve both the present congregation and the congregation of the future. As we can’t perfectly predict the needs of the future congregation, flexibility should be “built” into the design.
Sign Up to Learn More
We are so excited to show you how these things are taking form in the design process. These round table presentations will take place on March 6 & 8 with the following formats and times. This presentation is an overview of the work completed by the Sanctuary Taskforce and supported by Session. It will include time for questions and at the end there will be opportunity to submit written feedback. We are hoping for an equal distribution of people (approximately 25) at each of these events, so please use the button below to sign up.
Sunday, March 6 - 4:30-5:30 (In person) - This is scheduled so that those who go on the “Hike for Mike” can come to the church after if they would like.
Tuesday, March 8 -7-8pm (In person)
You will also have opportunity to sign up on Sunday after church.
Pastor Melissa
Michael Mills
Sandy Sherrard
Kathie Sutton
Ken Fredeen
Youth Retreat at LBI
Calling all Hopewell Youth! We are so excited to finally get back out to LBI for our annual youth retreat on March 11-13! This retreat is an opportunity to connect with each other, connect with nature, and connect with God. If you are interested in joining for this retreat, please email Deborah Jodrey. Usually we have a pancake supper fundraiser, but due to safety concerns around eating and COVID, we will not hold that fundraiser. Thankfully we still have funds that we were not able to use last year to cover the trip for any youth who would like to join! We hope you can make it!
HPC “Hike for Mike”
St Michael's Preserve, Hopewell - Sunday March 6th from 2-4pm
Come hike with HPC and help raise awareness and funds to donate to the Center for Head Injuries at JFK Hackensack Meridian Hospital. Michele Immordino's father, Michael Falcone, suffered a traumatic brain injury after being struck by a car in his neighborhood in September. He is recovering due to the great care he is receiving at the Center for Head Injuries. His family is so grateful and wants to raise awareness and funds for the Center for Head Injuries by encouraging groups to go on hikes (one of Mikes favorite activities).
Come enjoy the great outdoors and join the hike. Meet at 2pm at St Michael's main parking lot (surrounded by post and rail fence at edge of the open field) on Carter Rd. We will hike about 3 miles (shorter hike options available!) on likely some muddy trails. Bring water, a snack and boots or shoes that can handle the mud. Friendly dogs on leash are welcome.
More information about Mike and the overall fundraiser and/or to make a donation online use this link:
http://give.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/site/TR?team_id=3853&fr_id=1930&pg=team
Questions about the March 6th hike, contact Sue Armington or the church office.
Michele is planning to join us for the hike. She can accept any cash or check donations that day for the foundation.
Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee is elected by the congregation, drawn from its membership, and charged with the nomination of ruling elders, deacons, the personnel committee, and future nominating committee members. As Presbyterians we elect our leaders. The Nominating Committee has a unique role in this process, as their work is about looking at the many gifts that members of the congregation bring to this church community, then engaging with individual members whose gifts match leadership needs and inviting them to discern ways they feel called to serve. In assessing where the church has been and discerning where we are headed, the Nominating Committee seeks to connect with people most suited to lead HPC into the future.
Currently sitting on HPC's Nominating Committee are; Carlana Seargent, Lois Greives, Jen Megaffin (members at large), Roxanne Jones Holgate (Deacon Representative), and Molly Peterson (Chair and Session Representative).
Community Lenten Services
The Hopewell Council of Churches will once again be hosting Community Lenten Services on Wednesday evenings at 7:30. The theme this year is: “Intentional Neighboring”. See below for the schedule.
March 2 (Ash Wednesday) * Hopewell United Methodist Church * Speaker - Rev. Gregory Smith
March 9 * Hopewell Presbyterian Church * Speaker - Dennis O’Neill
March 16 * St. Alphonsus Roman Catholic Church * Speaker - Rev. Melissa Martin
March 23 * Calvary Baptist Church * Speaker - Rev. Willy Mafuta
March 30 * Second Calvary Baptist Church * Speaker - Rev. Fr. Stephen Sansevere
April 6 * Calvary Baptist Church * Speaker – Student Pastor Tori Paquette
April 17 (Easter Sunrise Service) - 6:00 AM * Highland Cemetery * Speaker - Rev. Willy Mafuta
Continuing Education for Deacons
The Board of Deacons nurtures the needs of our church community. As in every profession or calling, education is paramount to improving how we approach our responsibilities. We Deacons have invested some of our monthly meeting time to learn from experts about how we may better approach certain aspects of our Deacon responsibilities. Specifically, we have received guidance in Trends in Aging and the Role of Community Resources, Elements of a Successful Home Visit and the Nature of Grief.
Guest speaker Drew Dyson of the Princeton Senior Resource Center (PSRC) presented a talk on the Trends of Aging and the Roles of Community Organizations. PSRC is open to all seniors, no matter where they live. They offer many classes (at this time virtual) to engage seniors in subjects such as art and exercise to history and politics. They also house a technology center where seniors may receive assistance with computers. Mr. Dyson discussed trends in aging and listed these goals that community centers have to provide relevant and meaningful services to seniors:
● Combat isolation and loneliness with engagement and relationship.
● Combat uncertainty and boredom with volunteering and purpose.
● Combat fatigue and chronic illness with movement.
● Combat Alzheimer’s and dementia with expanding horizons.
● Combat isolation and “Fear of the Other” with inclusion and acceptance.
● Combat ageism with intergenerational relationships.
Seniors are living longer and belonging to the workforce longer. This growing population will require more services in their senior years enabling them to maintain a healthy and independent lifestyle. Community senior centers are important tools and resources to assist this demographic.
We also welcomed the Reverend Kelly Roman, chaplain of Chandler House, who shared with us advice about positive home visits. She acknowledged how difficult these visits can be, especially if the person is in declining health or in difficult circumstances. A key takeaway was that people like to share their stories and those stories can inspire us. We brainstormed about how to launch a conversation during a home visit. We don’t always have to ask questions, but may observe something in the room like a photo. Each visit is different and we need to adapt to the person and situation. Being present with the person is what is most important. Tips we learned:
● Bring news about the church. Share a story of what is going on.
● Share a favorite hymn or scripture.
● Pray. Make it a two way street. We all have challenges. We all need God.
● Deacons can use each other as resources when planning visits.
Reverend Roman’s suggestions impacted the way we will approach future home visits.
Lastly, we heard from Rev. Dr. Nancy Duff, recently retired from Princeton Theological Seminary about The Nature of Grief. Grief can be inconsolable and can last a lifetime. It becomes a part of us. We can’t fix someone’s grief. However, we can be a ‘suffering presence.’ Dr. Duff discussed how our society discourages lament. However, lament, the passionate expression of grief, involves a bold act of faith. She pointed to Psalm 6:6: I am weary with my moaning; every night I flood my bed with tears. All human experiences, including the gut-wrenching experience of grief, can be brought to God in prayer. The most important thing we can do to assist someone experiencing grief is to encourage them and provide them a safe space to share. Many people say things to comfort those who grieve but they don’t always lend comfort. Here are some ideas for saying the “right” things:
If you know it to be true: “I know your grief is inconsolable.”
I am holding (your name) before God in prayer. Name the person being mourned.
Remember what the person did well and reflect on the positives.
Email, send a card or call on phone weeks/months later and on birthdays and other special days.
Be specific with offers of help: May I walk your dog/take your children to the park…
Dr. Duff suggested we integrate lament into Sunday services to make it more acceptable to practice. Similar to our Assurance of Pardon, we could receive an
Assurance of God’s Presence.
All these speakers have enriched the Board of Deacons. We are grateful that they shared their wisdom with us. With God’s guidance, we will integrate these lessons into the care we provide the Congregation.
Stewardship Update
Hello HPC family. Your financial stewardship ministry wants to communicate with you on a regular basis in order to inspire your own stewardship ministry and to ensure that you understand how the church operates financially. We are stewards of God’s gifts individually and as a Body of Christ. We are told in 1Peter 4:10 that:
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
As we each determine what gifts God has blessed us with and how we might use them to serve others, the church as a whole also uses the gifts it receives to do the same. The Financial Stewardship Ministry is charged with overseeing the budget and investments, but it is the church session that ultimately decides how we use the tithes, offerings, and gifts the church receives. We thought you might like to know how the church’s budget is allocated; last year, the church spent its income (excluding those from bequests) in the following categories:
Personnel (Pastor, Office, Music Minister etc.) 64%
Nondiscretionary & Facilities (Utilities, Insurance, Repairs etc) 21%
Generosity (charitable giving) 11%
Miscellaneous 4%
Each year, the full budget is presented to the congregation in the printed annual report at the end of the fiscal year. Please feel free to let us know if you have any questions. God has blessed us mightily! Thanks be to God.
Barbara Pauley
On behalf of the Financial Investment Ministry
Session Update: November 2021 to January 2022
Here is a summary of Session Activity over the last three months. Please continue to hold this hardworking group of people in your prayers as they seek to make wise and faithful decisions for this church community. Session receives monthly reports and recommendations from our various ministries and taskforces to guide its deliberations. Meetings usually run for two-and-a-half to three hours and are typically held on the last Wednesday of every month.
Among many other things Session:
Elected Sandy Sherrard as President of the Corporation, replacing Stan Krystek who is no longer. Thanks to Stan for his service.
Addressed the Boy Scouts of America Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Settlement. HPC is a Participating Chartered Organization in the Bankruptcy Settlement, and in 2020 filed a “Proof of Claim” to enable HPC to make a claim for payment in this bankruptcy case if need arose. Session was presented with options including to vote for or reject the settlement. On the advice of our attorney and from the Presbytery Session determined that Hopewell Presbyterian Church need take no additional action in the matter of the vote on the Boy Scouts of America Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization.
Approved the use of the sanctuary for the Girl Scouts on January 9 at 3pm.
Approved the applications for membership of Seminarians Breeann Blumenthal and Ruth Amadio.
Approved the appointment of Deborah Jodrey as full time Minister of Youth Outreach and Director of the Hopewell Youth Collective.
Approved applications for time off by the Pastor.
Approved the next steps for the Sanctuary Taskforce Consultants’ Proposal for Upgrading the Sanctuary. Detailed discussion on this major project is ongoing.
Approved the Church’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Plan. Prepared by Deborah Jodrey, this comprehensive document aims to secure a safe church environment for all our children, youth and vulnerable adults.
Formally adopted the Mission Giving Policy prepared by the Generosity ministry.
Authorized Pastor Melissa Martin to select and hire three interns from Princeton Theological Seminary for the 2022-2023 Program Year. These positions include two pastoral interns and one youth intern to support HPC youth programming and the Hopewell Youth Collective. The PTS internship for the Hopewell Council of Churches will be supervised by one of the other Council pastors.
Approved the 2021-2022 Mission Giving budget presented by the Generosity ministry. About $26,000 will be disbursed under this heading. This forms only a part of our overall outreach effort.
Ian Burrow
Clerk of Session
Mental Healh Worship & Wonder
While it’s still cold and we are still masked up, we will be hosting Worship and Wonder after worship on Sundays (11:45-12:30). This is an opportunity for conversation, connection, and education. For the month of February, our learning will focus on Mental Health and Faith. Nurture and Growth has chosen this topic because it is one of the missional foci identified by the Justice & Service Ministry for the 2021-22 program year.
2/6 - Mental Health in the Bible - Michael Paul Cartledge II (Ph.D. Candidate at PTS)
2/13 - FAITHfully Caring for Mental Health - Rev. Miriam Diephouse-McMillan (Chaplain at Trenton Psychiatric Hospital)
2/20 - Reflections on Mental Health & Faith - Student Pastor Ryan
2/27 - Intergenerational Service Activity supporting Mental Health - Student Pastor Ryan & Katie Rosenson