Announcements
Our New Officers
Amy Rice
My name is Amy Sargent Rice and I have been a member of HPC for almost my entire life. Having served 3 terms in Deacons many years ago, I am looking forward to rejoining to get more involved in the church after some major life changes in the past couple of years. I am also especially excited to have my daughter, Erica, joining with me. Through these recent changes, Matthew 19:19 has come up many times- “Love your neighbor as yourself”. We should love our neighbors, but in order to love others we must first love ourselves.
Erica Rice
Connection: member (16 years)
Why I’m excited: I want to be able to help out even if that’s just by reaching out a couple times a month. I also love the idea of being able to get more involved with the church.
Bible verse: Philippians 4:6 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present you requests to God.”
Dave Denito
I first decided to visit Hopewell Presbyterian Church because my parents were married here in 1928. The wonderful people and pastor are what kept me coming back. This church truly feels like a family. After attending, my heart changed. You really hear the word of the Lord and it has a calming effect. Becoming a Deacon is one of the highlights of my life. I am blessed that the Lord, Pastor Melissa, and the Deacons would think of me for this position. I am honored and ready to do God’s work as a Deacon. What I a bring to the position is devotion, compassion, caring, affection and above all love. My favorite scripture verse is John 14:6-7. Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”
Ruth Mortensen
I have served as an Elder previously and also served as the Clerk of Session. I am really excited to serve again in that capacity. I prayer daily for the church and the pastor and look forward to serving HPC as we move forward. My favorite Bible verse is Psalm 100. “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him; bless his name. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever and his faithfulness to all generations.”
Martha Camp
I've been a member of HPC since 1985, and through it my life has been enriched by connections to many wonderful people. I'm pleased to be joining the Board of Deacons to help continue its long tradition of sympathy, witness, and service to the congregation and wider community. One of my favorite Bible verses is Psalm 18:28-29, speaking directly to God and affirming his power. "For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. For by thee I have run through a troop, and by my God have I leaped over a wall."
Chris Cox
"We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
Being an elder in the Hopewell Presbyterian Church is a high calling, a unique opportunity for me to be a servant to the congregation, and an experience of spiritual growth. My life has been a spiritual journey leading me find the love of my life and a special home with HPC. It is an honor to be chosen as an Elder in such a strong, active church.
Sandy Ogg
I’ve been at HPC since 1999. Was looking for a church home and my fellow Boy Scout parents suggested I try HPC. It is a great fit. I’m looking forward to working with the other deacons caring far and supporting our congregation. My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Roxanne Jones Holgate
Roxanne has served as a Deacon for the last three years and is beginning a second term.
Wine & the Bible - June 12
As we close out our program year, the Justice and Service ministry has put together an opportunity for us to celebrate and learn together in partnership with the Farminary at Princeton Theological Seminary.
The event is titled Wine & the Bible and will take place on June 12 at 6pm. Together we will explore the ways that wine is an important theme in the Bible and in the Christian tradition. In our time together, Dr. Nathan Stucky, Director of the Farminary, will invite us to think about wine and wine production as co-stewards in the vineyard, and Rev. Dr. Lindsey Jodrey, New Testament scholar, will invite us to read the Bible as wine drinkers. We will enjoy wine and the Bible together, exploring the themes of farming, creation, climate, shame, and the kingdom of God.
Wine tasting will be guided by Hopewell Presbyterians resident wine expert and ruling elder, Sandy Sherrard. Cheese plates will be provided by church member, Jen Smit, and Olson’s Fine Foods. Please remember to eat a full dinner before this event. We are asking people to sign up and to indicate whether they would be willing to carpool to the Farminary as there is limited parking. To sign up click the button below.
The Farminary is a part of Princeton Theological Seminary and a place where theological education is integrated with small-scale regenerative agriculture to train faith leaders who are conversant in the areas of ecology, sustainability, and food justice. It is designed to train students to challenge society’s 24–7 culture of productivity by following a different rhythm, one that is governed by the seasons and Sabbath. Formerly a Christmas tree farm and sod farm, the Farminary overlooks a pond and includes a 200-foot by 100-foot garden plot and a barn that is used for discussion and a place for sharing meals.
In the fall of 2021, Hopewell Presbyterian Church visited the farminary and learned about different methods of composting. This was a part of HPC’s commitment to learning more about creation care and ecology.
Welcoming our New Members!
2021-22 HPC New Member Cohort
Sue Lyons
Sue grew up in Gettysburg, Pa, and moved to Yardley in 1988. I have girl/boy twins, age 35, and a son, 31. I’m a born and raised Presbyterian, and raised my children Presbyterian as well.
As a child, I always wanted to be a nurse, and have been since 1979. I presently work part time at St Mary Medical Center, in the Same Day Surgery department. Most of my free time is spent outdoors.
HPC feels like a fit for me because I literally had a tingling sensation come over me the first time I entered the church. Prior to walking through those doors that day, I asked for a sign to let me know if this was a right decision to come to HPC. Thank you all for making me feel welcome.
My favorite bible verse would be from Ecclesiastes 9:11, The race is not given to the swift, nor the battle to the strong… but to the one who endured to the end.
Frank Devine & Kate Heavers (Éamonn)
Frank Devine grew up in Staten Island and Kate Heavers grew up in Rhode Island. We have spent the first decade of our marriage raising up Nathan (18) and Éamonn (5) in East Brunswick, NJ before moving here to Hopewell Borough in June 2021. Frank spends his weekdays at the bank and Kate spends her waking hours teaching in a science classroom.
We were each baptized and raised Roman Catholic. Our separate journeys (we met around age 40) took us away from Catholicism and to the United Church of Christ and finally here to our resting place in Presbyterianism. The denomination and the place, the people and the living Pastor - all these have caused us to gravitate here and want to settle in and settle down with this loving community of faith-filled and welcoming believers.
Katie’s favorite story is the one of the Samaritan woman from whom Jesus asks a drink. He knows EACH of us, eternally, as He knows her. And this is the fact that touches me most deeply. We feel loved when we feel SEEN and KNOWN.
Charlie & Kathy Schramm
Charlie was born in Philadelphia and grew up in Bensalem PA. Regularly attended Fox Chase Presbyterian Church. Attended Drexel University and met Kathy there. Married after graduation and both attended Northwestern University north of Chicago. Returned to the east coast in 1979 and settled in Hillsborough. Charlie worked at Colgate Palmolive research center in Piscataway for 36 years and retired in 2017. Charlie enjoys gardening, small home repairs, and reading. My favorite bible verse would be the Beatitudes.
Kathy was born in Corpus Christi, TX and since her dad was in the Navy, grew up in a few places.
But Jacksonville, FL and Blackwood, NJ were where her family lived the longest. Kathy worked at Union Carbide Research Center in Bound Brook for 16 years and left to be home with their sons, then worked part-time at the Carbide corporate library as a consultant for patentability and infringement. Since 2007, she has been a home instructor for HS math and science in the Montgomery Twpschool system and a substitute teacher for Montgomery Twp high school as well as Princeton Day school. Kathy was raised in the Catholic faith, attending Catholic schools through 9th grade,when the family moved from Florida to NJ. She became a Presbyterian when she married Charlie,
finding the emphasis on diversity, acceptance and forgiveness to be a positive feature. Kathy and Charlie were members of the Hillsborough Presbyterian church from 1979 until Oct 2021, when the church closed it’s doors. Kathy enjoys sewing, crafts, gardening, reading and spending time with her family especially the grand kids.
Kathy’s favorite Bible story from Luke 12:22-30 about God caring for the birds and lilies of the field who do not sow or reap, toil or spin. How much more He loves us and will care for us.
Jimena Hajek
I grew up in Chile, and I lived there until I was 30 years old. In Chile I ran a restaurant, but because of some life transitions I moved to the United States. Here I met and married Mikl, and together we worked and ran a family business. Then together we decided to open a restaurant here in Hopewell called Paint the Roses Tea Room and Cafe. For a time, we moved the business to North Jersey and now we are back here-– running Catalina Empanadas out of the HPC kitchen.
I grew up Catholic and my faith was always important to me and always believed in God. In these last years, I realized that I didn’t need to be Catholic to follow God. I felt more like family with the people here at Hopewell Presbyterian than any other church before. Everyone is so nice!
My favorite Bible story (and Bible movie) is that of Moses and him receiving the 10 commandments.
Jenn Skillman (Anna & Lauren)
I grew up right up the street from HPC. I went to college in upstate New York and stayed there for three years after graduating but moved back to NJ to be closer to my family and because my future husband was here. We have been married now for 14 years and have two daughters, Anna is 6 and Lauren is almost 10 months. We have two dogs, Sophia and Dory (Sophia is the mom and Dory is the daughter), we adopted them from SAVE right before the pandemic. We love to go hiking as a family and explore nature. We are looking forward to our vacation to the Poconos this summer for Lauren’s first birthday and to explore lots of trails and waterfalls! I work at Rider University as a senior business systems analyst and EJ is in charge of the West Amwell Police Department in Hunterdon County. We are also huge Disney fans and Anna is usually humming or singing a song from a Disney soundtrack.
I have always had faith, though, at times I am sure I have had questions but in my heart my belief never left. My faith is particularly important to me because I know I am not alone and when the stress of the world is hard to handle, I know Jesus is there. The hope that I have knowing I will be with Him one day helps to lessen all the worries. I grew up going to church at a local Presbyterian church and was baptized Presbyterian. When my husband and I were first married we lived in Ewing and I began attending a Lutheran church because it was close to us. My daughter, Anna, was baptized there. We moved to Hopewell Township right before the pandemic hit and everything closed. Once things started opening up a bit, I reached out to a few local churches and asked about their children’s programs. I was put in contact with Miss Katie and loved all that HPC offered to children. From the first day that we attended, Anna loved it, which was what really made me feel like we had found the church I wanted to join. Being new isn’t always easy and I understand people have a set way of doing things and core groups that stick together but as I had hoped that has not happened for me here. I felt like people here wanted to talk to me and have me be a part of them. It was a nice feeling and because of that and seeing how connected Anna is here, I know HPC is the perfect fit. We look forward to having Lauren baptized her on June 19! One of my favorite Bible verses is Mark 10:27
Gary Van Emburgh
I grew up in Vernon, Sussex County NJ. I spend most of my time working as the Director of Innovation and Transformation at Educational Testing Services in Princeton. Remaining time is spent with family/domestic duties and occasionally friends the church and God. Enjoy exercising, golf, traveling, cooking and eating. I have had loose ties to the Catholic church but did not invest much time as my family growing up. My faith is important because it has helped provide perspective and answers to some of life's most fundamental questions: Origin, meaning/purpose, morality, destiny. My faith also reinforces for me my value and the importance of self-love and love for others. My community is Hopewell and I want to be a beneficial presence for the people of my community. My favorite verse is Romans 3:23.
Cat Fulmer-Hogan (Chloe)
I am a lifelong resident of Hopewell Valley. The mother of 4 amazing humans and stepmother to 2 others. My husband, 3 youngest and I currently live in Hopewell Township.
I have moved through several faith traditions. The 2 most significant were Dutch Reformed and Baptist. I was baptized, and confirmed in the Dutch Reformed tradition. In my adult life, I was baptized, my children were dedicated and my husband and I jumped the broom in the Baptist tradition. The latter is where I have worshiped for the last 27 plus years.
I was connected to handful of folks at HPC. I came to hear a good word from Pastor Melissa and to heal and fortify myself and my family, understanding that HPC was making moves very much in line with my values. Appointing Deborah stands out as one of the boldest of them. Michele Immordino’s testimony finally sealed the deal for me. That Sunday I was struck with the realization that despite my deep connection to the Baptist church and worshiping in a culturally Black space, I could choose this path for us and that connection to my blackness was not somehow diminished in the process. I could share that with this new group of folks who would become family. The folks at HPC were my people too. We were tethered together for completely different reasons that spoke to my eternal fight for justice and desire for my family to be seen, just as we are.
Chloe who has been deeply committed to this process in ways I had never imagined, and is flourishing. Miss Katie sealed the deal for Chloe. Chloe is also excited to be baptized this summer!
My favorite bible verse is Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?” This is my life verse. I believe it at the core of my being and I do my utmost to move in it and find folks who will move with me.
Chelsea Hall (Isaiah & Amos)
My name is Chelsea Hall: cradle-Christian, ~12 year Presbyterian, and born and raised Arizona gal. My passion is for all people to recognize their God-breathed worth and dignity, and I am honored whenever I get a front row seat for this process in my roles as a mom and as a therapist. It is certainly also a process by which God continues to surprise me in my own life. I find it both mysterious and amusing that God uses the same folks that I am meant to be "helping" to in fact instruct and challenge me just as often. I learn so much about God's character from this fact about the Church: that at various moments we are each one another's teachers, servants, guests, parents, leaders, students, etcetera. I am curious to see how the Hopewell manifestation of God's body will be used to bless me, and how it will embolden me to be a gift to all.
Celebrating our Seminarians!
Ryan Maclean
During my time at HPC, I had the great privilege of serving on two committees, Engaging Justice & Services and Nurture & Growth, and helping facilitate Worship & Wonder. One of my favorite memories of my time at HPC was taking a small but mighty group of volunteers to the Farminary last fall. Together we learned about compost, helped winterize the fields, and thought theologically about what the earth might teach us about our faith journey. Although I am officially done with my internship at HPC, I plan to stick around for Sunday worship as I finish up my program at Princeton Seminary.
Tori Paquette
As the Hopewell Council of Churches intern, I had the privilege of participating in all five churches' worship services, leading ecumenical services and a book study, working with the Chubby's Project, and building a Council website. My favorite memory was being received and supported so wonderfully as I learned how to preach. While I will be interning at Morrisville Presbyterian Church next year, I am still a member under care of HPC in the ordination process and will be present in church life!
Katie Rosenson
I have had the absolute honor of working at HPC for two years (first as an intern, then as Children’s Ministry Lead). I have way too many fun memories with all of you to choose just one, but I especially loved my time hanging out with the youth at the LBI retreat, having dance parties with our youngest worshippers, and of course, all of the social media staff shenanigans. At the end of May, I will be graduating from Princeton Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity. Beginning in June, I will be the full-time Director of Children’s and Youth Ministry at Calvary Presbyterian Church in South Pasadena, California. Thank you for everything!
Congratulations to our 2022 Graduates!
Tiernan Blankstein
Tiernan is graduating from Hopewell Valley Central High School this June. She will attend the University of Vermont this fall! She plans to major in sociology and might minor in economics in the Liberal Arts Scholars Program. Tiernan is the daughter of Bob and Liz Blankstein and sister to Josie.
Gregory Bleickardt
Greg will graduate from Montgomery High School. He intends to attend George Washington University where he plans to major in Neuroscience. Greg is the son of Laurie and Eric and brother to Abigail and Justin Bleickardt.
Ricky Benford
Ricky Benford graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Sciences with a minor in Communications from the University of Idaho. He is a Drafter/Estimator with Archive Finishing in Hailey, Idaho and a snowboard/ski instructor in Sun Valley. Ricky is the son of Heidi & Chris Cox and grandson of Nancy Treible.
Michael Cuppett
Michael will be graduating from Princeton Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Christian Education and Formation. Beginning in June, Michael will be the Chaplain resident at Johns Hopkins Medicine. His favorite memory is Lindsey Jodrey shaving his head during lockdown in 2021. Michael was our Technology Consultant during the pandemic.
Anna Fredeen
Anna Fredeen is graduating from Rider University in May with a Bachelor of Arts degree magna cum laude majoring in Dance Science with a minor in Psychology. After graduation, Anna will continue teaching dance and choreographing new works and will also be preparing to take the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist exam. Anna is the daughter of Ken and DonnaJean Fredeen.
Katie Rosenson
Katie will be graduating from Princeton Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity. Beginning in June, Katie will be the full-time Director of Children’s and Youth Ministry at Calvary Presbyterian Church in South Pasadena, California. Her favorite memories are the Valentine’s Day cookie decorating contest over Zoom and the LBI Retreat with the youth and discovering Godly Play stories with the children. Katie is our Children’s Ministry Lead.
Bobby Strickhart
Bobby, son of Sandy Ogg, will graduate with a bachelor of science in agriculture and food systems from Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences on May 16. We are so excited and proud of him. Congratulations!!
If you or a member of your family are graduating and are part of the HPC family, please send a picture and graduation info to Lucy in the church office. We would love to celebrate with you!
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
Sanctuary Survey Results
The following is some of the information that helped inform the feasibility study and concept design conducted by the Sanctuary Task Force and HMR Architects. It is broken down by our original “areas of concern.”
Sound
Lighting
Seating
Chancel Configuration
Other Issues
What one or two changes to the sanctuary would have the most significant impact on improving your overall worship experience?
Improved sound system and comfortable seating.
Raise chancel area above level of pews and remove the two closets in front of the sanctuary.
I feel lighting could be improved and that the use of technology through improved audio visual tools would enhance the worship experience for me and everyone in the sanctuary. My desire is that for those who do find the sanctuary environment distracting or challenging in some attributes that those areas can be addressed for improvement. Lowering those distractions.
Screens in the front of the church for the scriptures and songs.
Cushions for all.
While the stained glass window is important to the chancel, the lighting contrast needs to be fixed.
Reduce the clutter upfront.
A redesign of the chancel area with other enhancements in lighting, sound, and AV would not just improve worship experience, it would be transformative.
It's good for me just the way it is.
I’m good as is. I worry that too much emphasis is being put on changes that might or might not bring new members. Our best outreach tool on Sunday morning comes from our pastor and our people.
Different types of seating throughout the sanctuary so that everyone’s needs can be met and it doesn’t limit them from sitting with others or wherever they would like (handicap seating in various locations, pews and padded chairs mixed, all cushioned pews, etc.)
The people and Pastor are the important and at this time I feel we have that.
HVAC that works well in winter and summer.
I would love if Charlie's piano was raised so we could see him play better. I would love a larger cross.
Making sanctuary brighter with more access to visuals (e.g., through projections) with enhanced sound system. Would also love a quiet chapel space for drop-in prayer time.
Adding permanent video and enhanced audio capabilities.
Reduce the ‘glare’ factor from the stained glass window. Address the differences in the ‘sound levels’ (from front to back of the sanctuary) regarding people speaking and music.
Rethinking the layout of the space and having chairs and/or movable pews.
More flexibility in adjusting the lighting
Fix the lighting from the windows in the front so I can see the pastor; worship leaders faces.
I’m a visual learner, so making our space match what we believe will help reinforce what we are doing in worship.
As much as I LOVE seeing the stained glass window at the front of the sanctuary (that was mainly out of view before the last major renovation in the sanctuary), its true that on bright sunny mornings it can provide a glare around the front of the church. I wonder if there is a way to preserve it in place but diminish early morning glare. I believe its only a problem on sunny days in the morning....
Audio for hearing impaired
Cushions on all pews, sound system.
Nothing
I love the pews.
More contemporary feel.
Reconfiguring the chancel area; raising it, removing closet and steps, making the praise band area less of an eyesore.
Being able to see the choir and the pulpit more easily.
Simplicity of design helps me better focus my attention on the movement of the Spirit.
Removing the pews and using chairs in different configurations to enhance/support connections during variety of worship services.
Improve the overall lighting in the sanctuary. There is a dark aspect to the sanctuary due to lack of lighting, dark pews, and inadequate natural lighting coming in through the stained glass windows.
Making it more flexible for a variety of uses and taking advantage of different forms of media.
Demographic Information
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.