# The Spirit — St. John's UCC (July/August 2026) **Volume 93, No. 7** · *A publication of St. John's United Church of Christ, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania* Cover art theme: "Breath of Hope" — a watercolor figure blowing a rainbow of butterflies over open lungs, evoking breath, healing, and hope for the summer season. > This note was converted from the printed/emailed newsletter PDF. Content is reproduced closely to the source for personal reference; page numbers below refer to the original newsletter layout. --- ## Calendar Highlights (July–August 2026) A consolidated, chronological view of dated items pulled from throughout the issue. See the full sections below for details. ### July - **Jul 1 (Wed), 6:30 PM** — American Revolution Talk with COL (Ret.) Frank Hancock, St. John's UCC (park in Lot B) - **Jul 2 (Thu), 7:00 AM** — Men's Breakfast, Texas Lunch (108 LWW, Chambersburg) - **Jul 5 (Sun), 10:00 AM** — Communion Sunday (Sanctuary & Livestreamed); K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45 AM, Youth room - **Jul 8 (Wed), 11:30 AM** — Ladies Luncheon, Hoss's Steak & Sea House - **Jul 10 (Fri), 7:00–9:00 PM** — A Civil War Ball, St. John's UCC - **Jul 12 (Sun), 8:45 AM** — Hymn Sing; Prayer Gathering & Peace Pole dedication (outside); K-12 Faith and Fellowship; VBS workday after Worship - **Jul 15–31** — "Stuff the Bus" school-supply collection (boxes in vestibules) - **Jul 16 (Thu), 2:00 PM** — Summer Singers concert, St. Luke Lutheran Church - **Jul 19 (Sun)** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45 AM; Children & Youth sponsor coffee hour; Bible School begins, 6:00 PM - **Jul 19–23, 6:00–8:15 PM** — Vacation Bible School ("Snowball Mountain Challenge") - **Jul 20 (Mon), 2:00 PM** — Summer Singers concert, Quincy Hess Room - **Jul 20 (Mon), 6:30 PM** — Bible & a Beer, The Trojan Diner & Sports Bar - **Jul 22 (Wed), 7:00 PM** — Summer Singers concert, Menno Haven Life Center - **Jul 24 (Fri), 2:00 PM** — Summer Singers concert, Menno Haven Life Center - **Jul 24 (Fri), 5:00–8:00 PM** (meet 4:45) — Annual Splash Party, Chambersburg Aquatic Center - **Jul 26 (Sun), 3:00 PM** — Summer Singers concert, St. John's UCC Sanctuary - **Jul 26 (Sun)** — Sunday Night Bible Study begins (Ecclesiastes), 8:00 PM via Zoom; VBS Sunday, 10:00 AM; VBS take-down after Worship; Confirmation Information Meeting, Room 116; K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45 AM - **Jul 27 (Mon)** — Monday Afternoon Book Study finishes *The Walk* (Adam Hamilton) ### August - **Aug 2 (Sun), 10:00 AM** — Communion Sunday (Sanctuary & Livestreamed); K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45 AM - **Aug 3 (Mon)** — Monday Afternoon Book Study begins *Learning to Walk in the Dark* (Barbara Brown Taylor) - **Aug 6 (Thu), 7:00 AM** — Men's Breakfast, Texas Lunch - **Aug 9 (Sun), 10:00 AM** — Blessing of the Animals, outdoor Sunday Worship; K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45 AM - **Aug 12 (Wed), 11:30 AM** — Ladies Luncheon, Hoss's Steak & Sea House - **Aug 16 (Sun), after Worship** — Ice Cream Social, Fellowship Hall; K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45 AM - **Aug 17 (Mon), 6:30 PM** — Bible & a Beer, The Trojan Diner & Sports Bar - **Aug 21 (Fri), 6:00 PM** — End of Summer Dance with DJ Frank Hancock, Fellowship Hall (Lot B) - **Aug 22 (Sat), 9:30 AM** — Prayer Gathering, St. John's Camp - **Aug 23 (Sun)** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45 AM - **Aug 30 (Sun), 8:45 AM** — Gratitude Sunday ("This is Us") pancake breakfast, Fellowship Hall; Worship follows at 10:00 AM - **Aug 31 – Oct 10** — Used Book Sale donation window opens (sale itself is Oct 23–25) ### Ongoing / weekly - **Tuesdays, 5:30 PM, Room 202** — Feel Good Yoga with Sue Collier ($5/class) - **Mondays, 1:30 PM** — Pastor Caroline's book study - **Sundays, 8:45 AM** — The Wired Word (Room 116) and The Upper Room (Conference Room 111) adult classes continue through summer - Praise group shares in worship roughly twice a month as part of a blended service --- ## From Pastor Caroline As children, we often look forward to summer: no school, fewer rules, less structure, and more fun. Summer doesn't feel quite the same as an adult; there is still plenty of work to be done. We need play and purpose, rest and relaxation, and perhaps even a vacation. It feels fitting to focus on Sabbath as part of our summer worship series in July and August. Our bodies and minds are not built to always be busy. Jesus took time away from the crowds and his disciples to rest and to pray, to pause and prepare for the work ahead. I will be traveling to Ireland July 5–17 for a spiritual retreat. I'm taking a few days after the retreat ends to explore Dublin, because the world is big and I want to see more of it. I look forward to being with my fellow seekers and sojourners as we make this pilgrimage of peace. We will have another hymn sing on July 12. We'll sing our own favorite hymns and the favorite hymns of others, with which we might be unfamiliar. It is an opportunity to grow together in Christian fellowship and love, for we are called to learn as well as worship. The gathering held at the labyrinth was well-received and that space is always available for quiet meditation and prayer. We will dedicate the peace pole and share prayers for peace on Sunday, July 12 at 8:45 am. On Saturday, August 22, we will be at St. John's Camp at 9:30 am to experience our "treasure in the woods." We pray in nature as well as in our building. We had a wonderful evening of sharing with our Dominican congregation on June 13 and we'll hope to do more of this form of "dinner church" in the coming months. It was truly a delight for our spirits as well as for our bellies. There are multiple events planned for July and August: Frank Hancock will be giving a talk on the American Revolution on July 1; the Summer Singers will be here at St. John's on Sunday, July 26; we will have our annual Blessing of the Animals outdoor service on August 9; we'll beat the heat with a sweet treat and an Ice Cream Social on August 16, an End of Summer Dance on August 21, and "Gratitude Sunday" celebrating our love of St. John's UCC and what makes us so special ("this is us"). Plus: VBS is July 19–23. Summertime provides us with many opportunities to laugh, learn, and serve as we grow in love of God and neighbor. Council is continuing to have exploratory conversations with Habitat for Humanity. Thank you for the congregational endorsement to continue the conversation and discern whether our property is suitable for building homes. We will communicate what we learn when we have new information to share. Thank you for your patience. Many thanks go to all who helped move our parking lot project from wish-list item/dream to a reality! I'm especially pleased by the increased ease of access to our building, as it is an extension of the extravagant welcome and radical hospitality we seek to offer and model. As we look forward the future with expectation and hope, may we indeed be renewed: > "Lead us from death to life, from falsehood to truth, from despair to hope, from fear to trust. Lead us from hate to love, from war to peace; let peace fill our hearts, let peace fill our world, let peace fill our universe." (Satish Kumar) Peace, Pastor Caroline --- ## Music Ministry — About Our Choir The Summer Singers Choir was formed at St. John's United Church of Christ in 2009 as a summer activity for those who enjoy singing. Our first choir was rather small but in the following years has grown to be what it is today. Last year we had singers who represented 20 churches in the Chambersburg area. This has become a vibrant ecumenical outreach for our church. We practice at St. John's UCC located at 1811 Lincoln Way East on Tuesday mornings beginning in May and we finish our concerts by the end of July. We welcome anyone to join us who enjoys singing. If you are interested in joining this group in the future, please send your email address to **[email protected]** and you will receive future communications about choir activities during the next year. — Gary Crum ### Summer Singers 2026 Concert Schedule | Date | Time | Location | |---|---|---| | July 16 (Thu) | 2:00 PM | St. Luke Lutheran Church | | July 20 (Mon) | 2:00 PM | Quincy Hess Room | | July 22 (Wed) | 7:00 PM | Menno Haven Life Center | | July 24 (Fri) | 2:00 PM | Menno Haven Life Center | | July 26 (Sun) | 3:00 PM | St. John's U.C.C. Sanctuary | *Come and be blessed!* --- ## First Fruit Offering — Ministry Matters: Summer Quarterly Focus The Community Engagement Committee invites support of three local initiatives during August, September, and October. ### 1. Franklin Together — Franklin County Reentry Coalition **Website:** franklintogether.org **Mission:** Develop collaborative community–professional partnerships to empower formerly incarcerated individuals and their families, reduce recidivism, and encourage community contribution. **Services:** Education on collateral consequences of convictions, stigma reduction, community engagement, advocacy for policy change, and programs like Gears for Change (job-related clothing and footwear to support employment). A program of South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP); a reminder that we are called to visit those who are in prison and to work for the liberation of the oppressed. ### 2. Homeless Matters of Franklin County Aims to reduce the burdens faced by individuals and families who are homeless in the area by creating opportunities for success and stability, even during difficult circumstances. A key focus is establishing the **Homeless Matters of Franklin County Day House** in Chambersburg — a daytime resource center offering food, medical care, and a safe, supported space. Their work takes seriously Jesus' command to love our neighbors. ### 3. Fayetteville Volunteer Fire Department A 100% volunteer department responding to ~600–900 calls each year. Fleet includes two Pierce fire wagons, a Seagrave heavy rescue squad, a Ford brush truck, a Dodge utility truck, and a Polaris UTV. They also provide professional EMS services to the community and several surrounding counties through a team of ~50 paid paramedics and EMTs, operating 24/7 with five ambulances, a medic unit, and five medical transport vans. Contributions may be made via First Fruits Offerings (designated envelope), Vanco, or check mailed to the church. --- ## Parking Lot Progress Report: The Work Is Complete Thank you so much for your support of this long-anticipated work and the wonderful results that we are pleased to enjoy! Greg St. Clair and Tom Kinton provided significant leadership in researching and recommending the contractors, coordinating the on-site meetings and audio conferences to define the details of the work which needed to be accomplished as well as the small things which we might have overlooked. Tonya Schwartz, our office administrator, played a major role ensuring the work event schedules were defined, providing detailed communication and coordination with all impacted individuals and organizations (including Jessica and Friends and all three congregations who worship at St. John's). Another unexpected blessing was the cooperative manner with which each contractor worked with each other. We did have a couple of speed bumps, but nothing that compromised the smooth, efficient, and timely manner that this project was completed. Thank you as well to Pastor Caroline for providing executive support and guidance, allowing the team to execute their respective responsibilities. Top to bottom, this project was a total success. I'm proud to have been a part of it. — Tom (Echo) Harrison, project manager **Additional considerations:** - New lines will be painted in the parking lots soon. - Project cost is close to **$250,000**, funded by drawing from the Trust Fund. Contributions may be made with "parking lot" in the memo line of a check or noted on an envelope. - Result: new, smooth, and attractive parking lots that are much more accessible to the congregation and wider community. - Photos of the wedge-laying and completed Lot A are included on page 6 of the original newsletter (not reproduced here). --- ## Church Office **Office Hours:** Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM **Closed:** Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day - **Office Administrator:** Tonya Schwartz — [email protected] - **Office Assistant:** Kristen Vannoy — [email protected] - **Phone:** 717-263-8593 --- ## Future Together Progress Report Council will continue to solicit feedback throughout 2026. A revised version of the Future Together Strategic Plan for 2026–2027 was endorsed at the Congregational Annual Meeting; copies are available from the church office and on the website. ### Spiritual Deepening - Pastor Caroline leads a weekly book study, Monday afternoons at 1:30 pm. Finishing *The Walk* (Adam Hamilton) in July; beginning *Learning to Walk in the Dark* (Barbara Brown Taylor) in August. Reading assignments listed in News in the Pews and the e-blast. - Sunday Night Bible Study, 8 pm via Zoom, on break until Sunday, July 26, when the group begins studying **Ecclesiastes**. - Two of three adult church school classes continue this summer, Sundays at 8:45 am: The Wired Word (Room 116) and The Upper Room (Conference Room 111). Sunday Morning Caffeine resumes in the fall. Church school classes for elementary-age and older youth are being piloted this summer. - Diana Kongkeattikul writes a weekly devotional for the website; an opt-in email list is available via the office. - Yoga classes, Tuesday nights, 5:30 pm, Room 202, $5/class. - The praise group shares talents ~2x/month as part of a blended service. - Next hymn sing: Sunday, July 12. - A wonderful prayer gathering was held at the Labyrinth; more opportunities for prayer in nature are planned at the peace pole and St. John's Camp. - The peace pole will be dedicated as part of the July 12 prayer gathering. ### Congregational Care - Exploring what "dinner church" involves; a small group has been invited to help move the idea forward. Piloted June 13 with members of the Dominican congregation — singing, praying, and eating together. - Five new members received Sunday, June 21: **Kevin and Rachel Chapman, Jen Long, Rhonda Neff, and Bob Wolff.** - New idea for late summer: **Ice Cream Social** featuring homemade ice cream and cookies — Save the date, August 16. ### Energize Participation - Thanks to everyone who made St. John's Camp a success again this year — the "treasure in the woods." Camp rental is available May through September. - Lobby bulletin board highlights "Growing and Sharing Together" (gardening tips and nature reflections) — congregants encouraged to add ideas/photos. - **Gratitude Sunday** ("This is Us") — August 30; share photos highlighting what you love about St. John's UCC. - **Blessing of the Animals** — Sunday, August 9, gathered outside; pets welcome in person or via photo. ### Community Engagement - Partnership with **NETwork Ministries** continues through the Summer Snacks Program; donations (food and funds) welcome; collection boxes in front lobby by the Welcome Center. - Community Engagement team exploring another major event similar to the Book Sale; initial conversations underway with **Marantha Ministries** to consider amplifying and supporting their mission. - New ideas being shared and expanded: a **Chili Cook Off on September 27** and a possible **Bingo and Silent Auction** event. ### Financial Sustainability - Council and the Finance Task Force continue exploring options for the building and property to generate revenue; additional grant-writing services are being considered for maintenance needs beyond the annual budget. - Exploring sponsorship options for the annual Book Sale to help offset expenses. - Parking lot project complete (see above) — pleased with results and expanded accessibility. - Continuing to be in contact with **Habitat for Humanity**, exploring viability and suitability of a portion of church land for home construction. --- ## Little Free Pantry **Located in Parking Lot B**, 1811 Lincoln Way East, Chambersburg, PA **St. John's "Little Free Pantry"** — FREE canned goods and non-perishable items available to those who have food insecurities. **Give if you can, but take what you need!** We appreciate the generous support of our congregation, Boy Scout Troop 136, Cub Scout Pack 136, and Girl Scouts to ensure this pantry stays stocked. --- ## American Revolution Talk **Wednesday, July 1, 6:30 PM** St. John's UCC, 1811 LWE, Chambersburg, PA 17202 — please park in Lot B Join COL (Ret.) Frank Hancock for an engaging presentation on the American Revolution. Using historical artifacts, he will explore how the Revolution unfolded and highlight the patriots who shaped its course. He will also share the important role Cumberland County played, including Colonel William Thompson, Washingtonburg, and the 1775 attack on Quebec. **All are welcome!** Free to attend; donations accepted. --- ## Help Us Provide Summer Snacks for NETwork Ministries! St. John's UCC is collecting funds and snacks for NETwork Ministries this summer. **What to donate:** Uncrustables (PB&J), water bottles, granola bars, trail mixes, low-sugar juices, pretzels, healthy snacks (small bags) **Drop-off location:** Boxes in the front lobby by the Welcome Center. Perishable items will be purchased with monetary contributions. **Questions?** Contact Diana Kongkeattikul or Don Hendrickson. --- ## Sunday Night Bible Study Join Sundays at 8 pm on Zoom for Bible Study! Currently studying **Ecclesiastes** — study begins **July 26**. Check News in the Pews and the e-blast for each week's reading assignment. A variety of translations is encouraged; Pastor Caroline is using the **Common English Bible (CEB)**. The Zoom link is included in the e-blast. ## Monday Afternoon Book Study Current selection: ***The Walk: Five Essential Practices of the Christian Life*** by Adam Hamilton — finishing **July 27**. The group begins ***Learning to Walk in the Dark*** by Barbara Brown Taylor on **August 3**. One chapter is read per week with robust discussion. Check News in the Pews for each week's reading assignment. Everyone is welcome! --- ## St. John's Camp Dear St. John's Family, Thank you so much for supporting St. John's Camp! Camp was a true joy this summer with a total of **25 campers, 8 youth helpers, 8 adult counselors**, and our cook, Kirk. Life's Learnings presenters included Tom and Dave Kinton (bat boxes & physical activities — *Land Shark* & drill exercises), Chani Wolf (tie-dye shirts & Japan), Susan Collier (yoga), and Corey Noggel (Native Americans). The group visited Tuscarora Wildlife Education Project's nature center and Cowans Gap's Nature Center with a bird lesson from the park's naturalist. The week also included the usual daily camp activities: Chapel, God Talk, camp songs, crafts, physical activities, nature lessons, and swimming at the Gap. We appreciate all who took time from their busy spring and summer to share their talents with St. John's Camp. Your help behind the scenes and throughout the week are greatly appreciated. We value the church members' dedication and hard work in providing a fun and enriching environment for the campers. The memories made this summer will be cherished for years to come. Thank you for your commitment and love for camp. — Camp Ministry --- ## A Civil War Ball **Commemorating the burning of Chambersburg** Presented by St. John's UCC & Discover Danceworks, in association with Danza Antiqua **Friday, July 10, 7–9 PM** St. John's UCC, 1811 Lincoln Way East, Chambersburg, PA Come & join the fun as Nancy J. Walker & Jef Savage lead an evening of Civil War-era dances. No previous experience necessary — these are walking dances. Guests will learn & dance some of the most popular & fashionable dances of the 1860s in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. **Dances:** A Grande March, Soldiers Joy, Waltz, Polka, Quadrilles, Virginia & Cumberland Reels, The Triumph, a Scottish Reel, and others. **Admission at the door:** Adult $10.00; Under 18 $5.00 (for adults, & age 10 thru 17 accompanied by an adult) **What to wear:** Civil War-era attire or modern casual. For safety, wear shoes safe to dance in — flexible with soles that can easily slide; flat or small heels (no more than ½"). Please do NOT wear flip flops, clogs, shoes with open backs, boots, high heels, or cleats. Proceeds go to Discover DanceWorks (501c3) & St. John's UCC Community Initiatives. Email [email protected] or call/text 717-414-1166 for more information. Light refreshments will be provided. *Copyright Danza Antiqua 2026. All rights reserved.* --- ## 2026 Used Book Sale **Held at St. John's Church, 1811 LWE, Chambersburg, PA** Benefiting Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County - **Friday, Oct 23:** 2–8 PM - **Saturday, Oct 24:** 9–5 - **Sunday, Oct 25:** Noon–4 - **Cash and checks only** We welcome new and used books on all subjects, including paperbacks, plus DVDs, audiobooks (on CDs), puzzles, and board games. We respectfully decline textbooks, encyclopedias, musty books, music, and cassette & VHS tapes. **Donations accepted Aug 31 – Oct 10.** **Drop-off locations:** 1. Patriot Federal Credit Union lobby locations in Franklin County 2. St. John's Church, Chambersburg, Monday–Friday 9–3 3. Habitat ReStore donation center, Wednesday–Saturday, normal hours 4. Bulk donations: call 717-263-8593 or email [email protected] 5. Colony House Furniture Sponsored by BCM Payroll Services (www.bcmpayroll.com) --- ## Safely Cook for Crowds **Cooking for Crowds: A Volunteer's Guide to Safe Food Handling** **Tuesday, September 22, 5–8 PM** St. John's United Church of Christ, 1811 Lincoln Way East, Chambersburg, PA Course teaches food safety for volunteers from organizations such as churches, fire companies, and booster clubs who serve food to the public — understanding risks in preparing large volumes of food and the safety practices needed for a safe event. **Topics:** Preventing cross contamination; controlling time and temperature; maintaining good personal hygiene; cleaning and sanitizing; planning a successful food event. **Register:** extension.psu.edu/cooking-for-crowds or 877-345-0691 *Presented by PennState Extension.* --- ## 2026 Blessing of the Animals Bring pets or their photos to the **10 AM Outdoor Sunday Worship on August 9**. Pets of all kinds are welcome to join us for that service in person or via photo. We give thanks for the animal companions, past and present, who make such a difference in our lives. --- ## Feel Good Yoga At St. John's with Sue Collier **Tuesdays, 5:30 PM, Room 202 — $5.00** Come and enjoy the benefits of Feel Good Yoga. St. John's United Church of Christ, 1811 Lincoln Way East, Chambersburg. Use Parking Lot B. --- ## Here's the Scoop — Ice Cream Social **Sunday, August 16th, after Worship, in Fellowship Hall** We are planning an ice cream social. If you would like to bring homemade ice cream or baked goods, please sign up at the Welcome Center. We'll beat the summer heat by enjoying the A/C and a sweet treat! --- ## Prayer Gatherings **Summer opportunities for praying in nature!** - **Sunday, June 14, 8:45 AM** — The Labyrinth - **Sunday, July 12, 8:45 AM** — The Peace Pole (outside) - **Saturday, August 22, 9:30 AM** — St. John's Camp *Gather in the beauty of creation to nurture your prayer life!* 1811 Lincoln Way East, Chambersburg 17202 --- ## End of Summer Dance — DJ Frank Hancock **Friday, August 21, 2026, 6 PM** St. John's Fellowship Hall — 1811 L.W.E, Chambersburg, PA — Parking Lot B Donations accepted. --- ## Bible & A Beer Theological conversations · Rich discussion · Powerful testimony **July 20, 2026, 6:30 PM** and **August 17, 2026, 6:30 PM** The Trojan Diner & Sports Bar, 1121 Lincoln Way E, Chambersburg, PA 17201 Bring your questions, invite your friends! *(Flyer carries the Open and Affirming rainbow ribbon mark.)* --- ## Growing & Sharing Together With the days growing longer and the sunshine warming the soil, many of us are already digging into one of spring/summer's greatest joys: gardening. Whether you tend a backyard plot, a raised bed, nurture a few pots on the patio, or simply enjoy watching flowers bloom, all are invited to join in celebrating the beauty and creativity of the community's gardens. The lobby board will highlight photos showcasing favorite plants, latest garden projects, and proud harvest moments — every garden has a story. There will also be a section to share helpful gardening tips, from what to plant each month to how to trim, prune, and keep a garden thriving. As summer progresses, a **sharing table** will be created in the lobby where extra vegetables, herbs, seeds, or flowers can be offered. ### Stuff the Bus The collection of physical items for United Way's "Stuff the Bus" school supply drive runs **July 15–31**. Look for the boxes in the vestibules and consider contributing through the First Fruits offerings. --- ## Ladies Luncheon & Men's Breakfast **Ladies Luncheon** — continues to meet the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Next gatherings: **Wednesday, July 8** and **Wednesday, August 12**, 11:30 am at Hoss's Steak & Sea House (20 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, 17202). No need to RSVP — just come and enjoy! **Men's Breakfast** — meeting **Thursday, July 2** and **Thursday, August 6**, 7 am at Texas Lunch (108 LWW, Chambersburg, PA). All are welcome for the next breakfast. --- ## Gratitude Sunday **"This is us"** — a celebration of who we are. Please share photos in advance or bring them with you, sharing what you love about St. John's. **You're invited to "Gratitude Sunday" on August 30th, 2026!** Gather in the Fellowship Hall for a pancake breakfast at 8:45 AM; Worship follows at 10:00 AM. Let us come together with thanks and praise! --- ## July Birthdays | Date | Name | Date | Name | |---|---|---|---| | 07/01 | Makayla Sheele | 07/15 | Alexis Reichelderfer | | 07/05 | Marco Dereef | 07/16 | Charles Reichelderfer | | 07/05 | Kelly Ann Hoover | 07/21 | Connie Stenger | | 07/07 | Rodney Byers | 07/23 | Maurice Marotte III | | 07/10 | Robert Archibald | 07/23 | Kevin Woy | | 07/10 | Linda Zeger | 07/24 | Beckhym Collier | | 07/11 | Betty Koontz | 07/25 | Kirk Johnson | | 07/11 | R. Kyle Myers | 07/25 | Kiana Smith | | 07/12 | Renee Byers | 07/28 | Jill Bard | | 07/13 | Annabella Burns | 07/30 | Jessica Hoffeditz | | 07/13 | Elizabeth Nutter | 07/30 | Stacey Johnson | | 07/13 | Bill Slothower | 07/30 | Deanna Statler | ## August Birthdays | Date | Name | Date | Name | |---|---|---|---| | 08/02 | Arlene McFate | 08/18 | Erin Wadel | | 08/06 | N. Erin Hartman | 08/19 | Jerry Thomason | | 08/07 | Sean Collier | 08/21 | Susan McNew | | 08/07 | Jean Cook | 08/21 | Ann Osterman | | 08/07 | Lynann Funk | 08/21 | Dwight Sollenberger | | 08/08 | John McGinley | 08/23 | Cooper Miller | | 08/09 | Sadie Boyer | 08/23 | Dolores St. Clair | | 08/10 | Carol Foltz | 08/23 | Sarah Young | | 08/11 | Kevin Chapman | 08/24 | Connie Kaiser | | 08/12 | Emily Hoger | 08/24 | Wayne Statler | | 08/13 | Joel Mundey | 08/26 | Zayla Stull | | 08/14 | Rodney Rotz | 08/27 | Jennifer Hudzinski | | 08/15 | Kirk Zeger | 08/28 | Eric Hoover | | 08/17 | Joyce Patterson | 08/31 | Kenneth Horn | | 08/17 | Eric Wadel | 08/31 | Elizabeth Widmann | --- ## Youth News ### July - **5** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room - **12** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room; VBS workday after Worship - **19** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room; **Children and Youth sponsor coffee hour**; Bible School begins 6:00 pm - **24** — Splash Party at Chambersburg Aquatic Center, 5–8 pm - **26** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room; VBS Sunday, 10:00 am; VBS take-down after Worship; Confirmation Information Meeting, Room 116 ### August - **2** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room - **9** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room - **16** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room - **23** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room - **30** — K-12 Faith and Fellowship, 8:45, Youth room **Children's Corner** is available every week throughout the year during Worship. ### Faith and Fellowship Sunday Summer Programming In the past, Youth Church School classes have taken the summer off. Due to request, modified classes are offered in the Youth room for school-age students only, much of the summer. Beginning June 7th, and offered every Sunday except July 5th, through August 30th, two brief classes are offered along with fellowship and munchies during the church school hour. Staffing is provided by volunteers, to allow parents to continue to enjoy their own class time. See Diane Kongkeattikul to help. Regular classes for 3-year-olds through high school resume on **September 13th** in their classrooms. --- ## Vacation Bible School — "Snowball Mountain Challenge" **July 19th–23rd, 6:00–8:15 pm** ### Avalanche of Coats Mission Project During the week of VBS, clean and gently used coats, mittens/gloves, hats and scarves of all sizes (yes, adult too) and gender will be collected for the Salvation Army's "Coats for Kids" project. Boxes set up at the back entrance of the church by Lot B. Thank you for continuing to care for our neighbors! ### VBS Wish List - Snow sports equipment: skis and/or poles, sleds, saucers, toboggans, ice skates, snowboards, snowshoes - White poly-fill stuffing/batting - Styrofoam balls, 3" diameter and larger ### Annual Splash Party **July 24th, 5–8 pm, Chambersburg Aquatic Center!** To close the week of Bible School and add a little more fun to the end of summer vacation, the pizza and splash party begins at 5, meeting in front of the pool entrance at 4:45. Cost is $6 for borough residents and $11 for non-borough (ages 1–4 and 60+, $10). Service hours can be used. See Roxanne if interested. Permissions and up-to-date medicals are only needed if a parent is not staying. --- ## Committee & Ministry Chairs 2026 | Committee/Ministry | Chair | |---|---| | Camp | MaryLee Yaukey | | Children & Youth Ministry | Roxanne Davenport | | Community Engagement | Harold Collier | | Congregational Care | TBD | | Facilities Ministry | Tom Harrison | | Fellowship | Sue McMurtray | | Finance | Scot Orndorff | | Library | MaryLee Yaukey | | Music Ministry | Gary Crum | | Nursery School | Linda Zeger | | Personnel | Lisa Fair | | Pastoral Relations | Tom (Mt. Union Rd) Harrison | | Prayer Shawl Ministry | N. Erin Hartman | | Safe Church Compliance | Sarah Herbert (Safe Church Compliance Steward) | | Safe Church Response | Sarah Herbert (Safe Church Compliance Steward) | | Safety and Security | Tom Kinton | | Spiritual Life | Lloyd Beers | | Technology and Media Ministry | Calvin Frantz | *Want to serve on a Ministry or Standing Committee? These groups would welcome you and your talents! Speak to these leaders or Pastor Caroline today to learn more and join them!* --- ## 2026 Council **Moderator Team** - Harold Collier, Past Moderator - Diana Kongkeattikul, Moderator - Harold Wissinger, Moderator Elect **At Large Members** - Kara Alt - Lloyd Beers Jr., Secretary - Tom Harrison - Connie Strunk **Additional Non-Council Positions** - Scot Orndorff, Treasurer - Jerry Thomason, Assistant Treasurer - Dick Rebok, Authorized Check Signatory - Susan Collier, Head Deacon - Dwight Sollenberger, Head Elder - Sarah Herbert, Safe Church Compliance Steward **Pastor:** The Rev. Caroline E. Saxton --- ## Worship & Communion Info **Sunday Worship: 10 AM** (Offered In-Person and on YouTube) **Communion Dates:** - Sunday, July 5, 10:00 am (Sanctuary & Livestreamed) - Sunday, August 2, 10:00 am (Sanctuary & Livestreamed) > "To grow in love of God and neighbor" **St. John's United Church of Christ** 1811 Lincoln Way East, Chambersburg, PA 17202 Phone: 717-263-8593 · Fax: 717-263-9010 Website: www.sjucc1811.org Office Hours: Mon–Fri, 9 AM–3 PM *Give online! (QR code in original newsletter)* --- ## Personal Notes & Follow-ups *(Space for reflections, action items, and cross-links to sermon notes, NAR research, or other vault projects as this issue's events unfold.)* - - -