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| This Sunday: This Sunday is the second Sunday of Lent, a season of 40 days of preparation for the festival of Easter. Lent is a time to be intentional about having Love at the center of our lives. This Sunday there are journeys offered. Abram is directed to take a journey to a new land, a new life, a new nation. And Nicodemus is offered a journey to a new life, to be born anew. Take a look at: Genesis 12:1-5a (and keep reading to hear the whole Abraham saga!) and John 3:1-17. This Sunday is also a communion Sunday. The Communion offering will be received. This offering is used to help people in the church and the community with basic needs such as rent and utility assistance, bus passes, prescriptions, etc. There has been a heavy need for these funds. Please consider how you can help the community through this offering. Communion will be offered by intinction. This involves coming forward, taking a piece of bread and dipping it in the cup and eating it. There will also be individual cups available, and the prepackaged communion servings. Please do what feels most comfortable for you. Childcare is provided at all Sunday services. |
| Giving Up Something for Lent? There is an age old tradition of giving up something for Lent. This tradition has many associations. This year, you are encouraged to join people from churches around Florida and around the country in giving up single use plastics for Lent. You can define the particulars to apply to your specific situation. Like – is the plastic container that blueberries come in at the grocery store considered a single use plastic? If you recycle it, is it single use plastic? You can make those determinations. Then see what it is like for you to give up this ubiquitous substance that is tainting every square inch of our planet – earth, air, and water. |
| New College Demonstration Many thanks to Bill Parsons, Dyanne Edds, Emily Bell, and Kim Wells for being part of the demonstration at New College on Tuesday. New College was founded in 1960 by the United Church of Christ. There were about 300 people at the demonstration, many of them from UCC churches. Did this rally change the Governor’s mind about policies regarding higher education? Probably not. But it certainly let the students, staff, and parents of New College know that the wider community is paying attention and cares about what is happening. To see more about the demonstration including pictures, click here: https://lakewooducc.org/2023/03/02/lakewood-ucc-supports-new-college-rally/ |
| UCC General Minister and President Nominee a former member of LUCC This past week, the search committee for the next General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ announced the candidate to be elected at the General Synod this summer. It is the Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson. Many years ago, Karen lived in St. Pete and was a member of LUCC. Congratulations to Karen and to the UCC! Click here to see the official announcement from the national UCC: https://lakewooducc.org/2023/03/02/rev-dr-karen-georgia-thompson-next-ucc-leader/ |
| Volunteers Needed There are still several ways for volunteers to be helpful at church particularly involving basic tech skills. Please speak with Kim Wells if you can help out. Many thanks to all those who have taken on new responsibilities in recent weeks! |
| Earthquake Response In response to the horrific devastation and loss of life in Turkey, Syria, and beyond, the United Church of Christ Disaster Ministries in on the scene offering assistance. To make a financial donation through the UCC, please click here. https://lakewooducc.org/2023/02/14/25034/ |
| Annual Giving Reports Finance Secretary Lucille Ruga has prepared annual giving statements for 2022.If you would like your statement for your records, please contact Lucille |
| From Lakewood Church Leaders following the Congregational Meeting As we enter the Lenten season we can be thankful for our church community deciding to move forward boldly at the Congregational Meeting on Feb. 19, 2023. By a unanimous vote with 23 people present, a 6 month budget was approved that keeps our full-time Pastor and accepts the challenge to meet a $12,500 deficit for the first 6 months of the year. A significant amount of that was pledged at the meeting. There were two realities that were clear at the meeting. The first is the realization that expenses are going up for individual households and for the church. The second is that there is a strong sense of community and a special appreciation for the leadership of our Pastor and our church leaders. We simply have to find additional income. We hope that you will seriously consider increasing your regular giving to the church this year. It is easy to say that we will do the same as last year, or that we will give when we attend on Sunday. But it will help in our planning if we know what we can count on to support our on-going expenses. Another possibility is to consider a one-time gift to support this year’s shortfall. Perhaps you have planned to leave the church a bequest when you are no longer able to participate as part of the Lakewood family. Maybe you could use a portion of that bequest now to help Lakewood continue to thrive in this critical year of our life as a congregation. Eight to ten individuals contributing an additional $1,000 and 8-10 contributing an additional $500 would go a long way toward meeting our needs for the coming year. And for those who are not in a position to make this kind of commitment, please know that every gift is valued and significant to our life together. In addition to increasing our financial giving, there is also the need to increase our participation and volunteering at the church. There many ways to be of assistance so that the ministry of the church can remain vibrant. Those who would like to become more involved are encouraged to contact Pastor Kim Wells to discuss ways to be helpful. Working together, and the God’s help, we can meet this challenge. Pledge forms will be available soon. Many thanks for your support of this beautiful faith community! Your Lakewood Church Leadership Team |
| Guided Labyrinth Walks Wednesday Mornings at 9:00 a.m. Each week there is a guided labyrinth walk on the outdoor labyrinth at the church. It is a time of prayerful faith sharing, and a time to listen more deeply to our spiritual lives. In case of rain, the walks are held on Thursday morning. Also, the readings and prayers used each week at the guided walk are put in the mailbox by the labyrinth for use during the week. The labyrinth is on the church grounds near the southwest corner of the church property. It is available for use at all times. |
| Family Promise Needs Family Promise, a local ministry to houseless families with children, is in need of the following items: Women’s underwear sizes S/M/LWomen’s socksWash clothsBath towelsPull Ups sizes 2T-3T, 3T-4T, 4T-5THair conditioner (no shampoo)Women’s deodorantCerealCups, forks, platesSnacks to go (not granola bars)Please bring items to church and place them on the shelves behind the curtain in the hallway. |
| Toiletries for Celebrate Outreach Celebrate Outreach is a local ministry with people who are living without shelter in St. Petersburg. An average of 135 people are served each week. LUCC was asked to collect toiletries to be distributed to the community at the meals that are provided on Saturday and Sundays each week. Celebration Outreach has an ongoing need for men’s and women’s underwear. Men sizes 30, 32,34 Women’s sizes 5,6, 7,8. Also in high demand are socks of all kinds /sizes for both men & women. Other needed items are Deodorant & disposable razors.Toothbrushes, toothpaste, disposable razors, bar soap, wash cloths, deodorant, feminine hygiene items, travel size creams, shampoo, body wash, individual packets of Kleenex, hand wipes, toilet tissue, and paper towels are always needed as well.Many thanks to Janet Blair and Jim Andrews for taking the donations to Celebrate Outreach. |
| Inkjet Recycling The church is continuing to collect used inkjet cartridges. They are sent to a recycler and the church receives payment for the cartridges provided. So, don’t throw out your cartridges. Bring them to church. Not only do they get recycled but they provide income for the ministry of the church. |
| Operation Attack Update OA needs donations of cereal/oatmeal, mac and cheese, pasta sauce, peanut butter, canned meat, fruit, soup, and vegetables. Donations may be placed on the shelf in the hallway at church. Many thanks to Owen Blair-Catala for seeing that the donations are received by Operation Attack. |
| USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS Sermon and Reflection Texts Lakewood UCC YouTube Channel Lakewood UCC on Twitter Lakewood on Facebook Lakewood on Instagram For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near the bottom of each page. You can stream Hilton’s music and videos for free at http://hiltonkeanjones.com/look-listen/ as well as purchase his CDs and digital albums there. |
| March Birthdays! March 1 Carol ShoresMarch 3 Claudia RodriguezMarch 13 Yvonne RiesenMarch 19 Ron Huff Are any church family birthdays missing? Please contact the Church Office! |
| Circle of Concern Samantha Wassmer and familyThe Family and Loved Ones of Beulah CoughenourTony and Jim LarsonErik JohnsonKatherine ConoverSherry SantanaAnn Quinn is under Hospice careMaggie BrizendineJanet HallAll those suffering from COVID-19 and all healthcare workers, Schools: Students, families, teachers, and staff |
| Weekly Update If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Wednesday. Please provide the information in paragraph form with pertinent details and links. THANK YOU! |
| RECENT WEBSITE POSTS Put in list of new postsBULLETIN 3.5.23March 2, 2023 Rev Dr Karen Georgia Thompson next UCC leaderMarch 2, 2023 Pinellas Remembers Community Remembrance Project CoalitionMarch 2, 2023 Lakewood UCC Supports New College RallyMarch 2, 2023 |
Category: Updates
Weekly Update 2.8.23
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| Weekly Update 02.08.23 |
| This Sunday: This Sunday, the service is a prep for Valentine’s Day! Yes, there will be relationship advice! Don’t miss it! Childcare is provided at all Sunday services. |
| Congregational Meeting Notice – BE THERE! With many challenges facing the church post covid, there are important decisions that need to be made by the congregation relating to the ministry of LUCC going forward. All are needed to be part of the decision-making process, family-style! Please make plans to attend an officially called congregational meeting after church on Sunday Feb. 19 to take action on a financial plan for 2023. The church advisors and the finance team have been working very hard to prepare for this meeting. Your presence is needed for responsible decisions to be made.All are encouraged to attend. Those who are not official members of the church are welcome to participate. This is an important part of our life together as a community. Please plan to be present! |
| Ash Wednesday Ahead The Lenten season begins in just a few weeks. Lent is the 40 day season of preparation for the festival of Easter. In the New Testament we are told of Jesus spending 40 days in the wilderness to prepare for his ministry. We will spend 40 days, not including Sundays, focusing on tapping into the image-of-God within us. We will find that Love is Wild! The Ash Wednesday service will be held Wednesday Feb. 22 at 7:00 p.m. around a fire at the lakefront home of Chip and Dana Cosper. For additional details or if you would like a ride, please contact the Church: lakewooducc@gmail.com or 727-867-7961. |
| New Members to be Received LUCC is a welcoming community and on Sunday Feb. 19 during morning worship new members will be officially received into the membership of the church. Those who would like to know more about joining the church are asked to speak with Rev. Kim Wells, wells.kim.p@gmail.com or 727-867-7961. Those who join the church during worship on the 19th will be able to vote at the Congregational Meeting following the service. That is putting faith immediately into practice! |
| Earthquake Response In response to the horrific devastation and loss of life in Turkey, Syria, and beyond, the United Church of Christ Disaster Ministries in on the scene offering assistance. To make a financial donation through the UCC, please click here. |
| Annual Giving Reports Finance Secretary Lucille Ruga has prepared annual giving statements for 2022.If you would like your statement for your records, please contact Lucille: ceilruga@gmail.com |
| Creation Justice Event in Sarasota “Contagious Hope: Making a Difference on Climate” is the theme of a special presentation Saturday February 25 from 9:30-12:30 at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Sarasota [1031 S. Euclid Ave.]. The featured speaker is Rev. Brooks Berndt, Minister of Environmental Ministry for the United Church of Christ. There are several local panelists who will also be involved in the presentation. A vegetarian lunch will be served. To make a reservation for the event, please email Sarah Melcher at melchersj8856@gmail.com If you would like to carpool from LUCC, please contact Rev. Wells at wells.kim.p@gmail.com |
| Guided Labyrinth Walks Wednesday Mornings at 9:00 a.m. Each week there is a guided labyrinth walk on the outdoor labyrinth at the church. It is a time of prayerful faith sharing, and a time to listen more deeply to our spiritual lives. In case of rain, the walks are held on Thursday morning. Also, the readings and prayers used each week at the guided walk are put in the mailbox by the labyrinth for use during the week. The labyrinth is on the church grounds near the southwest corner of the church property. It is available for use at all times. |
| Family Promise Needs Family Promise, a local ministry to houseless families with children, is in need of the following items: Milk Water (small bottles) Paper Goods (paper towels, toilet paper, napkins, plates, cups) Cleaning supplies (disinfectants, sponges, dish soap, laundry soap) Please bring items to church and place them on the shelves behind the curtain in the hallway. |
| Toiletries for Celebrate Outreach Celebrate Outreach is a local ministry with people who are living without shelter in St. Petersburg. An average of 135 people are served each week. LUCC was asked to collect toiletries to be distributed to the community at the meals that are provided on Saturday and Sundays each week. Celebration Outreach has an ongoing need for men’s and women’s underwear. Men sizes 30, 32,34 Women’s sizes 5,6, 7,8. Also in high demand are socks of all kinds /sizes for both men & women. Other needed items are Deodorant & disposable razors.Toothbrushes, toothpaste, disposable razors, bar soap, wash cloths, deodorant, feminine hygiene items, travel size creams, shampoo, body wash, individual packets of Kleenex, hand wipes, toilet tissue, and paper towels are always needed as well. Many thanks to Janet Blair and Jim Andrews for taking the donations to Celebrate Outreach. |
| Inkjet Recycling The church is continuing to collect used inkjet cartridges. They are sent to a recycler and the church receives payment for the cartridges provided. So, don’t throw out your cartridges. Bring them to church. Not only do they get recycled but they provide income for the ministry of the church. |
| Operation Attack Update OA needs donations of cereal/oatmeal, mac and cheese, pasta sauce, peanut butter, canned meat, fruit, soup, and vegetables. Donations may be placed on the shelf in the hallway at church. Many thanks to Owen Blair-Catala for seeing that the donations are received by Operation Attack. |
| USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS Sermon and Reflection Texts Lakewood UCC YouTube Channel Lakewood UCC on TwitterLakewood on Facebook Lakewood on Instagram For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near the bottom of each page. You can stream Hilton’s music and videos for free at hiltonkeanjones.com/look-listen/ as well as purchase his CDs and digital albums there. |
| February Birthdays! 02/06- Jim Andrews 02/15- Jeff Wells 02/28- Joyce Lee Are any church family birthdays missing? Please contact the Church Office! |
| Circle of Concern The Family and Loved Ones of Beulah Coughenour Tony and Jim Larson Erik Johnson George and Jane Diven and Family Katherine Conover Sherry Santana Ann Quinn is under Hospice care Maggie Brizendine Janet Hall Schools: Students, families, teachers, and staff |
| Weekly Update If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Wednesday. Please provide the information in paragraph form with pertinent details and links. THANK YOU! |
| RECENT POSTS Sermon 01.29.23 Bulletin 1.29.23 CONTAGIOUS HOPE: MAKING A DIFFERENCE ON CLIMATE Operation Attack Update |
Weekly Update 1/5
This Sunday, January 9, will be a beautiful celebration of the baptism of Jesus. The story tells of Jesus baptized in the Jordan by John the Baptizer. Do you remember your baptism? Baptism, like the waters of the womb, is about new life and new birth. This Sunday we’ll remember the call to new life in Christ.
The service will be in the sanctuary with the doors and windows open.
‘Tis A Gift
The Gift of Music
LUCC Music Director Hilton Jones has recorded 2 CDs for the LUCC family. One is Christmas Piano featuring favorite songs of this season. The second is Simply Hymns featuring favorite hymn tunes. Both CDs are available at the church. The music is a gift to the congregation. If you would like to make a donation to offset the production costs, you may. See the display in the sanctuary. Enjoy the gift of music from Hilton not just on Sundays but every day!
Holiday Cheer to the Homebound
The Care Team had a beautiful time bringing the church to those who are homebound last Sunday. Check out the joy!
Anti Racism Demonstrations
Weekly demonstrations along the sidewalk of 54th Ave. S. Make your own sign or use one of the signs at the church. Demonstrations are held Sundays from 4:30-5. In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week.
Know justice, know peace! This is an important way to inspire hope in the community and to work to create an anti-racist society.
Guided Labyrinth Walks
The guided walk is held weekly on Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. This provides an opportunity to be aware and deepen your spiritual journey. If it is raining, the walk is held on Thursday at 9:00 a.m.
Also, the readings and prayers used on Wednesdays at the guided walk are put in the mailbox by the labyrinth each week for use during the week.
The labyrinth is on the church grounds near the southwest corner of the church property. It is available for use at all times.
Gifts to McCabe Early Childhood Learning Center
Thanks to the generosity of the LUCC congregation, LUCC member Claudia Rodriguez was able to provide Christmas gifts for students in her class at McCabe Early Childhood Learning Center on 26th Ave. S. The children were delighted. Many thanks to Patti Cooksey and Emily Bell for assisting with this. Click here to see this wonderful display of generosity!
Playground Clean Up
A friendly neighbor of the church volunteered to clean up the church playground. The weeds and seedlings are gone. The space is much more conducive to child’s play. Many thanks to our wonderful neighbor, Anita!
Zack Blair-Andrews Featured in Tampa Bay Times
College senior Zack Blair Andrews contributed to a very timely article in the Tampa Bay Times last Sunday – ‘The Good, the bad and the ugly of Facebook and Twitter.’ It is posted on the bulletin board at church. Or check it out on line: https://www.tampabay.com/opinion/2021/12/16/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-of-facebook-and-twitter-column/
Winter Solstice – Seeing in the Dark
Despite the mist and the rain, seven hearty souls gathered to explore the themes of light and darkness on the shortest day/longest night of the year. One of the things we ‘saw in the dark’ is the need for ‘wintering.’ For time spent in quiet, solitary, reflection. Quite a contrast to this season which is often the busiest of the year! The rain drove the group to the sidewalk under the overhang and prevented the labyrinth walk but did not dampen illuminating conversation and wisdom about light and darkness. By the time the discussion was over, the rain had dissipated and the fire was still burning, so it was time for roasting marshmallows! See pictures here:
New Century Hymnals Available
LUCC has been given 60 used New Century Hymnals from a church that no longer needs them. If you would like a hymnal for home use, you are welcome to have one. They are available at church on the bookshelf in the main hallway. Please help yourself!
Advisors for 2022
Many thanks to Barbara Donohue and Christy Martin for agreeing to serve as advisors for 2022. They will join Lucille Ruga and Malcolm Wells. The church is grateful to Patti Cooksey and Jane Diven for their ministry as advisors for the past several years. LUCC is blessed with wonderful leadership. Gratitude is expressed to those who will nurture the ministry of the church for the year ahead.
Operation Attack Update
OA needs donations of cereal/oatmeal, mac and cheese, pasta sauce, peanut butter, canned meat, fruit, soup, and vegetables. Donations may be placed on the shelf in the hallway at church.
Being Covid Safe and In-Person Worship
Please stay home if you are not feeling well.
Please wear a mask while in the church building. While most people have been vaccinated, this helps visitors to feel safe.
Additional masks will be available at church to use as needed.
Two hand sanitizing stations are available for use by worshippers.
There is well-ventilated, physically distanced indoor seating in the sanctuary.
Please know that your safety is of primary consideration!
Safe childcare is provided.
Sundays
Look for the bulletin posted on the church website on Friday: https://lakewooducc.org/category/bulletins/
Watch the service on Facebook Live Sundays at 10:30. https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodUCC
Or on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LakewoodUCC/videos
Instructions for how to access Facebook Live: For additional assistance, please contact the church office.
Here are some instructions to watch our Sunday services live through Facebook:
Use the following link to visit our homepage: https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodUCC/
On Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. please use the link above to visit our homepage. There, after using the link, you will see a section labeled “Happening Now”. This is our Livestream of the Sunday Service.
To watch the live stream, locate and click the “watch video” button in the lower right corner of the screen.
If the link above is not working, there is also a link to our Facebook page on our website. Please try that link located on the Home page of our website.
PLEASE NOTE:
With the cooler temperatures, we will resume opening the doors and windows for morning worship as we continue efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Sunday services are being held at 10:30 a.m. Masks are required. There is physical distancing. Childcare is provided.
You can also join in on Facebook Live at 10:30. Please see the instructions below.
USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS:
- Sermon and Reflection Texts
- Lakewood UCC YouTube Channel
- Lakewood UCC on Twitter
- Lakewood on Facebook
- Lakewood on Instagram
For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near the bottom of each page.
You can stream Hilton’s music and videos for free at hiltonkeanjones.com/look-listen/ as well as purchase his CDs and digital albums there.
January Birthdays: Martha Lamar 1/2, Chip Cosper 1/7, Jackson Cosper 1/9, Hilton Kean Jones 1/23, Bob Bell 1/28. Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.
Circle of Concern:
Christopher and Dana
Carol Shores’ grandson, Ben
Amaiya Washington
Dave Radens
William Owen-Cowan
Jen Degroot
Carolyn Moore
Ann Quinn is now under Hospice care
Maggie Brizendine
Janet Hall
All those suffering from COVID-19 and all healthcare workers
Schools: Students, families, teachers, and staff
Church Office Hours: Tuesday 9:30-noon Thursday-Friday 9:30-noon.
Recent Posts:
- LUCC Provides Gifts for PreschoolDecember 22, 2021
- Winter Solstice -Seeing in the DarkDecember 22, 2021
- Sermon 12/12/2021December 21, 2021
- The Babe of BethlehemDecember 21, 2021
- Lining the Cradle Sunday Dec. 19, 2021December 20, 2021
- Christmas VisitsDecember 20, 2021
- FREE home internet access and technology coaching for PCS familiesDecember 20, 2021
- Lo, How a Rose ‘Er BloomingDecember 19, 2021
- O Little Town of BethlehemDecember 18, 2021
- Bulletin 12/19/2021December 17, 2021
Weekly Update: If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Tuesday since the Update usually is sent out on Wednesday.
On land originally inhabited by the Tocabaga
Weekly Update 12/30
‘Tis A Gift
The Christmas Eve Offering
Thanks to the amazing generosity of the congregation, a total of $800 was collected on Christmas Eve for the Creation Justice ministries of the church! Many, many thanks!
The Gift of Music
LUCC Music Director Hilton Jones has recorded 2 CDs for the LUCC family. One is Christmas Piano featuring favorite songs of this season. The second is Simply Hymns featuring favorite hymn tunes. Both CDs are available at the church. The music is a gift to the congregation. If you would like to make a donation to offset the production costs, you may. See the display in the sanctuary. Enjoy the gift of music from Hilton not just on Sundays but every day!
This Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022 will be a beautiful introduction to the New Year! And following the service, there will be an opportunity for a guided walk of the labyrinth themed on journeying into the New Year. All are welcome to extend the worship experience into this labyrinth walk. You may bring a chair for use at the labyrinth.
The first Sunday of the month is communion Sunday. The Communion offering will be received. This offering is used to help people in the church and the community with basic needs such as rent and utility assistance, bus passes, prescriptions, etc. There has been a heavy need for these funds. Please consider how you can help the community through this offering
The service will be in the sanctuary with the doors and windows open.
Holiday Cheer to the Homebound
The Care Team had a beautiful time bringing the church to those who are homebound last Sunday. Check out the joy!
Anti Racism Demonstrations
Weekly demonstrations along the sidewalk of 54th Ave. S. Make your own sign or use one of the signs at the church. Demonstrations are held Sundays from 4:30-5. In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week.
Know justice, know peace! This is an important way to inspire hope in the community and to work to create an anti-racist society.
Guided Labyrinth Walks
The guided walk is held weekly on Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. This provides an opportunity to be aware and deepen your spiritual journey. If it is raining, the walk is held on Thursday at 9:00 a.m.
Also, the readings and prayers used on Wednesdays at the guided walk are put in the mailbox by the labyrinth each week for use during the week.
The labyrinth is on the church grounds near the southwest corner of the church property. It is available for use at all times.
Gifts to McCabe Early Childhood Learning Center
Thanks to the generosity of the LUCC congregation, LUCC member Claudia Rodriguez was able to provide Christmas gifts for students in her class at McCabe Early Childhood Learning Center on 26th Ave. S. The children were delighted. Many thanks to Patti Cooksey and Emily Bell for assisting with this. Click here to see this wonderful display of generosity!
Playground Clean Up
A friendly neighbor of the church volunteered to clean up the church playground. The weeds and seedlings are gone. The space is much more conducive to child’s play. Many thanks to our wonderful neighbor, Anita!
Zack Blair-Andrews Featured in Tampa Bay Times
College senior Zack Blair Andrews contributed to a very timely article in the Tampa Bay Times last Sunday – ‘The Good, the bad and the ugly of Facebook and Twitter.’ It is posted on the bulletin board at church. Or check it out on line: https://www.tampabay.com/opinion/2021/12/16/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-of-facebook-and-twitter-column/
Winter Solstice – Seeing in the Dark
Despite the mist and the rain, seven hearty souls gathered to explore the themes of light and darkness on the shortest day/longest night of the year. One of the things we ‘saw in the dark’ is the need for ‘wintering.’ For time spent in quiet, solitary, reflection. Quite a contrast to this season which is often the busiest of the year! The rain drove the group to the sidewalk under the overhang and prevented the labyrinth walk but did not dampen illuminating conversation and wisdom about light and darkness. By the time the discussion was over, the rain had dissipated and the fire was still burning, so it was time for roasting marshmallows! See pictures here:
End of the Year Giving
Please consider LUCC as you make plans for your end-of-year giving. For some, there are tax implications for making additional gifts. Thanks to the monies from the federal government to help navigate the pandemic, the church has been able to stay solvent. But these funds are no longer available and some fixed costs are increasing so your increased giving is needed to equip the vital ministries of the church. As we say on Sundays, may our giving reflect the generosity of God!
New Century Hymnals Available
LUCC has been given 60 used New Century Hymnals from a church that no longer needs them. If you would like a hymnal for home use, you are welcome to have one. They are available at church on the bookshelf in the main hallway. Please help yourself!
Advisors Needed for 2022
Each year 3-5 wonderful people meet monthly to support the life and ministry of the church especially attending to matters involving finance, administration, personnel, and property. This past year, the church was ably served by Patti Cooksey, Lucille Ruga, Jane Diven, and Malcolm Wells. Some new advisors are needed for 2022. Is this something you might like to be involved in? Or can you think of someone in the church that you would like to see serve in this role? There are forms to fill out at church or speak to one of the current advisors or to Rev. Wells. This is a wonderful way to deepen your ties with the church and to make a difference!
Operation Attack Update
OA needs donations of cereal/oatmeal, mac and cheese, pasta sauce, peanut butter, canned meat, fruit, soup, and vegetables. Donations may be placed on the shelf in the hallway at church.
Being Covid Safe and In-Person Worship
Please stay home if you are not feeling well.
Please wear a mask while in the church building. While most people have been vaccinated, this helps visitors to feel safe.
Additional masks will be available at church to use as needed.
Two hand sanitizing stations are available for use by worshippers.
There is well-ventilated, physically distanced indoor seating in the sanctuary.
Please know that your safety is of primary consideration!
Safe childcare is provided.
Sundays
Look for the bulletin posted on the church website on Friday: https://lakewooducc.org/category/bulletins/
Watch the service on Facebook Live Sundays at 10:30. https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodUCC
Or on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LakewoodUCC/videos
Instructions for how to access Facebook Live: For additional assistance, please contact the church office.
Here are some instructions to watch our Sunday services live through Facebook:
Use the following link to visit our homepage: https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodUCC/
On Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. please use the link above to visit our homepage. There, after using the link, you will see a section labeled “Happening Now”. This is our Livestream of the Sunday Service.
To watch the live stream, locate and click the “watch video” button in the lower right corner of the screen.
If the link above is not working, there is also a link to our Facebook page on our website. Please try that link located on the Home page of our website.
PLEASE NOTE:
With the cooler temperatures, we will resume opening the doors and windows for morning worship as we continue efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Sunday services are being held at 10:30 a.m. Masks are required. There is physical distancing. Childcare is provided.
You can also join in on Facebook Live at 10:30. Please see the instructions below.
USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS:
- Sermon and Reflection Texts
- Lakewood UCC YouTube Channel
- Lakewood UCC on Twitter
- Lakewood on Facebook
- Lakewood on Instagram
For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near the bottom of each page.
You can stream Hilton’s music and videos for free at hiltonkeanjones.com/look-listen/ as well as purchase his CDs and digital albums there.
January Birthdays: Martha Lamar 1/2, Chip Cosper 1/7, Jackson Cosper 1/9, Hilton Kean Jones 1/23, Bob Bell 1/28. Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.
Circle of Concern:
Dana Cosper and family following the death of Dana’s mother
Amaiya Washington
Carol Shores
Dave Radens
William Owen-Cowan
Jen Degroot
Carolyn Moore
Ann Quinn is now under Hospice care
Maggie Brizendine
Janet Hall
All those suffering from COVID-19 and all healthcare workers
Schools: Students, families, teachers, and staff
Church Office Hours: Tuesday 9:30-noon Thursday-Friday 9:30-noon.
Recent Posts:
- LUCC Provides Gifts for PreschoolDecember 22, 2021
- Winter Solstice -Seeing in the DarkDecember 22, 2021
- Sermon 12/12/2021December 21, 2021
- The Babe of BethlehemDecember 21, 2021
- Lining the Cradle Sunday Dec. 19, 2021December 20, 2021
- Christmas VisitsDecember 20, 2021
- FREE home internet access and technology coaching for PCS familiesDecember 20, 2021
- Lo, How a Rose ‘Er BloomingDecember 19, 2021
- O Little Town of BethlehemDecember 18, 2021
- Bulletin 12/19/2021December 17, 2021
Weekly Update: If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Tuesday since the Update usually is sent out on Wednesday.
On land originally inhabited by the Tocabaga
Weekly Update 12/22
‘Tis A Gift
Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve will be celebrated with an outdoor service at 7:00 p.m. on the church lawn. Music of the season will begin at 6:30. Please bring your own chair if you can. The offering on Christmas Eve will be used to support the Creation Justice ministries of the church.
The Christmas Eve Offering
The offering will be used to support the Creation Justice ministries of the church. There are several projects under consideration including reforesting part of the church property, signs for the EV station, and installing solar panels. Caring for the Earth is a priority ministry of LUCC. The Christmas Eve offering will help the church to increase its greening initiatives.
The Gift of Music
LUCC Music Director Hilton Jones has recorded 2 CDs for the LUCC family. One is Christmas Piano featuring favorite songs of this season. The second is Simply Hymns featuring favorite hymn tunes. Both CDs are available at the church. The music is a gift to the congregation. If you would like to make a donation to offset the production costs, you may. See the display in the sanctuary. Enjoy the gift of music from Hilton not just on Sundays but every day!
This Sunday, Dec. 26 is the Sunday after Christmas. Where do we fit into this ancient story from a different culture? How does it still speak to us today?
The service will be in the sanctuary with the doors and windows open.
Holiday Cheer to the Homebound
The Care Team had a beautiful time bringing the church to those who are homebound last Sunday. Check out the joy!
Anti Racism Demonstrations
Weekly demonstrations along the sidewalk of 54th Ave. S. Make your own sign or use one of the signs at the church. Demonstrations are held Sundays from 4:30-5. In case of rain, the demonstration will not be held that week.
Know justice, know peace! This is an important way to inspire hope in the community and to work to create an anti-racist society.
Guided Labyrinth Walks
The guided walk is held weekly on Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. This provides an opportunity to be aware and deepen your spiritual journey. If it is raining, the walk is held on Thursday at 9:00 a.m.
Also, the readings and prayers used on Wednesdays at the guided walk are put in the mailbox by the labyrinth each week for use during the week.
The labyrinth is on the church grounds near the southwest corner of the church property. It is available for use at all times.
Gifts to McCabe Early Childhood Learning Center
Thanks to the generosity of the LUCC congregation, LUCC member Claudia Rodriguez was able to provide Christmas gifts for students in her class at McCabe Early Childhood Learning Center on 26th Ave. S. The children were delighted. Many thanks to Patti Cooksey and Emily Bell for assisting with this. Click here to see this wonderful display of generosity!
Playground Clean Up
A friendly neighbor of the church volunteered to clean up the church playground. The weeds and seedlings are gone. The space is much more conducive to child’s play. Many thanks to our wonderful neighbor, Anita!
Zack Blair-Andrews Featured in Tampa Bay Times
College senior Zack Blair Andrews contributed to a very timely article in the Tampa Bay Times last Sunday – ‘The Good, the bad and the ugly of Facebook and Twitter.’ It is posted on the bulletin board at church. Or check it out on line: https://www.tampabay.com/opinion/2021/12/16/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-of-facebook-and-twitter-column/
Winter Solstice – Seeing in the Dark
Despite the mist and the rain, seven hearty souls gathered to explore the themes of light and darkness on the shortest day/longest night of the year. One of the things we ‘saw in the dark’ is the need for ‘wintering.’ For time spent in quiet, solitary, reflection. Quite a contrast to this season which is often the busiest of the year! The rain drove the group to the sidewalk under the overhang and prevented the labyrinth walk but did not dampen illuminating conversation and wisdom about light and darkness. By the time the discussion was over, the rain had dissipated and the fire was still burning, so it was time for roasting marshmallows! See pictures here:
New Year – New Beginnings
Sunday, January 2 will be a beautiful service inviting us to find Love in the New Year. Following the service, there will be a special guided labyrinth walk themed on journeying into the New Year. All are welcome to extend the worship experience into this labyrinth walk. You may bring a chair for use at the labyrinth.
End of the Year Giving
Please consider LUCC as you make plans for your end-of-year giving. For some, there are tax implications for making additional gifts. Thanks to the monies from the federal government to help navigate the pandemic, the church has been able to stay solvent. But these funds are no longer available and some fixed costs are increasing so your increased giving is needed to equip the vital ministries of the church. As we say on Sundays, may our giving reflect the generosity of God!
New Century Hymnals Available
LUCC has been given 60 used New Century Hymnals from a church that no longer needs them. If you would like a hymnal for home use, you are welcome to have one. They are available at church on the bookshelf in the main hallway. Please help yourself!
Advisors Needed for 2022
Each year 3-5 wonderful people meet monthly to support the life and ministry of the church especially attending to matters involving finance, administration, personnel, and property. This past year, the church was ably served by Patti Cooksey, Lucille Ruga, Jane Diven, and Malcolm Wells. Some new advisors are needed for 2022. Is this something you might like to be involved in? Or can you think of someone in the church that you would like to see serve in this role? There are forms to fill out at church or speak to one of the current advisors or to Rev. Wells. This is a wonderful way to deepen your ties with the church and to make a difference!
Operation Attack Update
OA needs donations of cereal/oatmeal, mac and cheese, pasta sauce, peanut butter, canned meat, fruit, soup, and vegetables. Donations may be placed on the shelf in the hallway at church.
Being Covid Safe and In-Person Worship
Please stay home if you are not feeling well.
Please wear a mask while in the church building. While most people have been vaccinated, this helps visitors to feel safe.
Additional masks will be available at church to use as needed.
Two hand sanitizing stations are available for use by worshippers.
There is well-ventilated, physically distanced indoor seating in the sanctuary.
Please know that your safety is of primary consideration!
Safe childcare is provided.
Sundays
Look for the bulletin posted on the church website on Friday: https://lakewooducc.org/category/bulletins/
Watch the service on Facebook Live Sundays at 10:30. https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodUCC
Or on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LakewoodUCC/videos
Instructions for how to access Facebook Live: For additional assistance, please contact the church office.
Here are some instructions to watch our Sunday services live through Facebook:
Use the following link to visit our homepage: https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodUCC/
On Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. please use the link above to visit our homepage. There, after using the link, you will see a section labeled “Happening Now”. This is our Livestream of the Sunday Service.
To watch the live stream, locate and click the “watch video” button in the lower right corner of the screen.
If the link above is not working, there is also a link to our Facebook page on our website. Please try that link located on the Home page of our website.
PLEASE NOTE:
With the cooler temperatures, we will resume opening the doors and windows for morning worship as we continue efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Sunday services are being held at 10:30 a.m. Masks are required. There is physical distancing. Childcare is provided.
You can also join in on Facebook Live at 10:30. Please see the instructions below.
USEFUL LAKEWOOD LINKS:
- Sermon and Reflection Texts
- Lakewood UCC YouTube Channel
- Lakewood UCC on Twitter
- Lakewood on Facebook
- Lakewood on Instagram
For the above church website links, please note the “Older Posts” button near the bottom of each page.
You can stream Hilton’s music and videos for free at hiltonkeanjones.com/look-listen/ as well as purchase his CDs and digital albums there.
December Birthdays: Patti Cooksey 12/8, Becky Palmer 12/16, Amaiya Washington 12/18, George Diven 12/27, Melanie Moore 12/27, Someone missing? Contact the church office with birthday information.
Circle of Concern:
Dana Cosper and family following the death of Dana’s mother
Carol Shores
Dave Radens
William Owen-Cowan
Jen Degroot
Carolyn Moore
Ann Quinn is now under Hospice care
Maggie Brizendine
Janet Hall
All those suffering from COVID-19 and all healthcare workers
Schools: Students, families, teachers, and staff
Church Office Hours: Tuesday 9:30-noon Thursday-Friday 9:30-noon.
Recent Posts:
- LUCC Provides Gifts for PreschoolDecember 22, 2021
- Winter Solstice -Seeing in the DarkDecember 22, 2021
- Sermon 12/12/2021December 21, 2021
- The Babe of BethlehemDecember 21, 2021
- Lining the Cradle Sunday Dec. 19, 2021December 20, 2021
- Christmas VisitsDecember 20, 2021
- FREE home internet access and technology coaching for PCS familiesDecember 20, 2021
- Lo, How a Rose ‘Er BloomingDecember 19, 2021
- O Little Town of BethlehemDecember 18, 2021
- Bulletin 12/19/2021December 17, 2021
Weekly Update: If you are involved with an activity or event that you would like to share with the LUCC family, please send the information to the Church Office by Tuesday since the Update usually is sent out on Wednesday.
On land originally inhabited by the Tocabaga
Lakewood United Church of Christ 