Fact or fiction!
While we got together on Sunday night, the Red Sox were losing the ALCS. Now you might think that, as a Yankee fan, I may be gloating about their loss. Well...maybe just a little, but I bring it up because...as big as baseball seems, there are many things in life that are more important. Stop and think about the things we've been talking about the last three weeks. What was God planning? What was His purpose for everything? What is His purpose for you?
See what I mean? Compared to the Red Sox or the Yankees...this stuff is pretty important. God created you in His image. He wants everything for you that He wanted for His first creation. He wants you to be a reflection of Himself. Yes you! At the center of you being that reflection is Jesus Christ.
Well, this Sunday wasn't a'' seriousness. We also played Fact or Fiction, did our best at naming the MLB teams trivia, spelled words with letters drawn on our feet and watched Ben spell with his backside. (long story)
Remember, the Senior High retreat is this coming weekend and USM will not be meeting on Sunday the 26th.
See what I mean? Compared to the Red Sox or the Yankees...this stuff is pretty important. God created you in His image. He wants everything for you that He wanted for His first creation. He wants you to be a reflection of Himself. Yes you! At the center of you being that reflection is Jesus Christ.
Well, this Sunday wasn't a'' seriousness. We also played Fact or Fiction, did our best at naming the MLB teams trivia, spelled words with letters drawn on our feet and watched Ben spell with his backside. (long story)
Remember, the Senior High retreat is this coming weekend and USM will not be meeting on Sunday the 26th.
Phone a friend
Pretty much the whole night we devoted to "Phone a Friend". The questions were unique and we had a nice cross section of life in our call list. Gilbert, Doris, and Sam. Jen was nice enough to bring a big plate of her most awesome chocolate chip cookies.
Our rewind took us back to looking at Adam. He named the animals but couldn't find any to meet the "woman" shape hole in his heart. God concluded that He needed to make the perfect match for Adam. I heard that when Adam woke up from his nap, he saw Eve and said "Whoa! Man!" The rest is history. The point is: God had a perfect plan for his creation. Man and woman were to live in harmony with each other, with nature and with God. So I ask, again, what happened?
Our rewind took us back to looking at Adam. He named the animals but couldn't find any to meet the "woman" shape hole in his heart. God concluded that He needed to make the perfect match for Adam. I heard that when Adam woke up from his nap, he saw Eve and said "Whoa! Man!" The rest is history. The point is: God had a perfect plan for his creation. Man and woman were to live in harmony with each other, with nature and with God. So I ask, again, what happened?
Tom and Jerry
I think it was the most painful attempt at giving directions I have ever made. Maybe I should think twice before I try to tell thirty students how to play Tom and Jerry. Okay, once it got going it was pretty funny. I'm not sure who came up with the game, but I have to hand it to them: good times.
We were treated to Lillian, Hazel, Victoria and Sawyer finding out "what are you doing?" It was probably a mistake to let them go three rounds. I can live with Victoria "flirting" with Austin, but not so much with the "dance".
We started to rewind life to the beginning. As in...Genesis. The question: What was God doing? So we looked at the record of creation and found that God created man in His own image. Meaning, mankind has a soul, a will, and free will. It also means that we desire relationships and can love selflessly. But mankind was not designed to be afraid of God either. God desired a whole and healthy relationship with His creation. So what happened?
We were treated to Lillian, Hazel, Victoria and Sawyer finding out "what are you doing?" It was probably a mistake to let them go three rounds. I can live with Victoria "flirting" with Austin, but not so much with the "dance".
We started to rewind life to the beginning. As in...Genesis. The question: What was God doing? So we looked at the record of creation and found that God created man in His own image. Meaning, mankind has a soul, a will, and free will. It also means that we desire relationships and can love selflessly. But mankind was not designed to be afraid of God either. God desired a whole and healthy relationship with His creation. So what happened?
"Road Trip"
A big group of students got together at 3pm on Sunday to take a "Road Trip" to St. Andrews in Burlington. St. Andrews is a church that was started about a year ago. It was started by a group of people who wanted something "new". It is a Christian church but they don't have a church building---so they have been meeting in the fellowship hall of the First Baptist church in Burlington.
You know it's unusual as soon as you walk in. You're encouraged to get something to drink and eat. Once you have that, then you walk to your table. They have about 12 card tables set up with table clothes and candle center pieces. Scattered around the room are floor lamps. It feels like you're walking into a restaurant. Pastor Kevin was at the front of the room sitting on a stool holding a guitar.
The funny thing is, we walked in with 30 people and almost doubled the number of people they had attending. Oh, and of course, we were kind of late. But that seemed okay with them. We sang a few songs and then the service was open to anyone to wanted to share or make song request. We were encouraged to answer a few questions: "How has God brought good news to your life this week?" and "How have you been set free?" or "How has your sight been restored?"
It was a unique service even for them. It was nice and it was... interesting at one point...
Bonus: They fed us all dinner. Spaghetti, Mac and Cheese, Soup, Dessert. It was a great spread of food. Of course, a trip to B-town wouldn't be complete without a trip to Dunkin Donuts!
You know it's unusual as soon as you walk in. You're encouraged to get something to drink and eat. Once you have that, then you walk to your table. They have about 12 card tables set up with table clothes and candle center pieces. Scattered around the room are floor lamps. It feels like you're walking into a restaurant. Pastor Kevin was at the front of the room sitting on a stool holding a guitar.
The funny thing is, we walked in with 30 people and almost doubled the number of people they had attending. Oh, and of course, we were kind of late. But that seemed okay with them. We sang a few songs and then the service was open to anyone to wanted to share or make song request. We were encouraged to answer a few questions: "How has God brought good news to your life this week?" and "How have you been set free?" or "How has your sight been restored?"
It was a unique service even for them. It was nice and it was... interesting at one point...
Bonus: They fed us all dinner. Spaghetti, Mac and Cheese, Soup, Dessert. It was a great spread of food. Of course, a trip to B-town wouldn't be complete without a trip to Dunkin Donuts!
Sardines and Cramps
First, let's give a big shout out to Adam, Andrew, Isaac and Conor. They stacked wood on Sunday for Darlene Simmons. Good work boys. Isaac, put some ice on that finger.
With the weather holding a bit, students stayed outside for a bit. Since Lucas is still on crutches, we had a crutch race. Some how a wheelchar showed up as well, but it was Travis on crutches that made it look easy. He made the three spins, rounded the corner and withstood a barrage of things being thrown at him. Then there was the odd circle game. It was interesting to see how many girls were avoiding the boys. But it was Anna and Sawyer that needed to be pulled out. Sawyer went all out to clear his name. He dropped to one knee in front of Anna and sang one of the most touching renditions of "You are my sunshine" I've ever heard. Sawyer...you're the man!
From there, it was all "baby preacher" I can't say anything else about that. Although that did set up my talk on the Bible. I truly believe the bible is our handbook for life. No, maybe not cramps, but certainly about hope, love, loss, family, loneliness, choices, eternal life, etc... I do hope you'll see the benefit of learning about God in His word. Be ready for 1-minute Say So.
What would the evening be without Sardines? And on top of that...Jen made cupcakes for everyone to celebrate September birthdays. Thanks Jen!
With the weather holding a bit, students stayed outside for a bit. Since Lucas is still on crutches, we had a crutch race. Some how a wheelchar showed up as well, but it was Travis on crutches that made it look easy. He made the three spins, rounded the corner and withstood a barrage of things being thrown at him. Then there was the odd circle game. It was interesting to see how many girls were avoiding the boys. But it was Anna and Sawyer that needed to be pulled out. Sawyer went all out to clear his name. He dropped to one knee in front of Anna and sang one of the most touching renditions of "You are my sunshine" I've ever heard. Sawyer...you're the man!
From there, it was all "baby preacher" I can't say anything else about that. Although that did set up my talk on the Bible. I truly believe the bible is our handbook for life. No, maybe not cramps, but certainly about hope, love, loss, family, loneliness, choices, eternal life, etc... I do hope you'll see the benefit of learning about God in His word. Be ready for 1-minute Say So.
What would the evening be without Sardines? And on top of that...Jen made cupcakes for everyone to celebrate September birthdays. Thanks Jen!
Crazy Mad Wood stacking
The second night of USM wasn't a tradional one for sure. Between Conor dressed in drag on a date with Ben, and Sawyer doing his best to sell us toilet paper; the evening was interesting to say the least. We welcomed a few more newbies (what a night to start coming). I talked with everyone about the things in life that we don't have much say in. Between parents, teachers, employers and others...much of our life is decided for us. However, in the area of faith, it's personal. You can't force someone to have faith...it's their choice. It's your choice. Okay, after all that...we loaded 31 people in 6 cars and drove to the Hindmarsh's and stacked 3 cords of wood in 35 minutes. Not to shabby!
Move up
We welcomed the newest group of students to USM on Sunday. The 7th graders were welcomed with couple of funny skits by performed by Dave and Paul Wood and the Drama Team. And nothing says "your part of USM" like drinking Ginger Ale, lighting a candle and making a game out of it. We all sat on the floor to illustrate that, regardless of age or class, we are all on the same level when it comes to God. That's our starting point! We ended the evening with a classic game of Jacoby Can-Can.
September News
Did you know that the average rainfall for June and July for our area is 7 inches of rain? Did you know that we saw over 12 inches of rain those two months this summer?
It's no wonder why everyone is saying "I can't believe summer is over!"
Well, whether you believe it or not...you are back to school. It's out of your control. As much as we might have wanted to reach up and stop the rain drops from falling...it was out of our control.
USM is every Sunday night. We talk about things that are hard to believe.
We talk about things that are out of our control. Every Sunday night we talk about stuff that you or someone you know, need to talk about.
Of course, it's always a fun night, lots of laughing and it's the perfect way to get ready for MONDAY MORNING.
I also want to make sure each of you are at Sunday School. Middle school, Mr. Estey and Mr. Luke are back! We welcome all the 7th graders.
High School will be at the Brown's every Sunday morning at 11:15am for LIFE TOGETHER. Jen and I are very excited about this class, we hope you are too!
SEPT 28. "ROAD TRIP" 2:30pm - 6:30pm
St. Andrews Church in Burlington
It's no wonder why everyone is saying "I can't believe summer is over!"
Well, whether you believe it or not...you are back to school. It's out of your control. As much as we might have wanted to reach up and stop the rain drops from falling...it was out of our control.
USM is every Sunday night. We talk about things that are hard to believe.
We talk about things that are out of our control. Every Sunday night we talk about stuff that you or someone you know, need to talk about.
Of course, it's always a fun night, lots of laughing and it's the perfect way to get ready for MONDAY MORNING.
I also want to make sure each of you are at Sunday School. Middle school, Mr. Estey and Mr. Luke are back! We welcome all the 7th graders.
High School will be at the Brown's every Sunday morning at 11:15am for LIFE TOGETHER. Jen and I are very excited about this class, we hope you are too!
SEPT 28. "ROAD TRIP" 2:30pm - 6:30pm
St. Andrews Church in Burlington
Waterslide?
After finishing up our book study, Sunday night brought us to a very troubling place. I believe the instructions everyone received was "be prepared to get wet, dirty and maybe sticky". What started out as a simple waterslide, turned into a ketchup mess. And after the ketchup...Herhsey's syrup didn't seem to help the situation. But that didn't stop the mess. Out came the tub of Mayo. Some said it was the nastiest thing we've ever done. At this point, we're not aware of any photos.
USM Summer Olympics
Although hidden along the Green Mountain National Forest, United Student Ministries commandeered the world stage Sunday, celebrating its first-time role as Olympic host with a stunning display of pyrotechnics and pageantry -- topped by the unworldly sight of a flying gymnast, traversing the heights of the stadium to light the flame and begin the Summer Games.
President Bush and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin were among the glittering roster of notables who watched USM make this bold declaration that it had arrived. Bush is the first U.S. president to attend an Olympics in Lincoln.
Jake M. accompanied by his younger brother, who survived May's devastating beat down, carried the flag as the USA Olympic team paraded into the stadium. Second-guessed for awarding the games to USM, the International Olympic Committee stood firmly by its decision. "It was time," the committee said, "to bring the games to the hills."
"For a long time, USM has dreamed of opening its doors and inviting the world's athletes to Lincoln for the Summer Olympic Games," IOC President Jacques Rogge said in his speech. "Tonight, that dream comes true." Later, he would laud the pageant: "It was an unforgettable and moving ceremony that celebrated the imagination, originality and energy of Todd and Matt"
Fireworks greeted athletes and fans for the start of the 2008 Summer Games."It was a breathtaking experience walking into the stadium," said Andrew, a spit shooter from VT. "I am thankful to be part of this moment."
"This is the biggest stage," said Ben, who hopes to lead the U.S. combined long jump team to a gold medal.
For USM dissidents who have dared to challenge the youth leaders monopoly on power, the start of the Olympics meant tighter surveillance and restrictions.
"It's not my Olympic Games," said Kate, a known whiner. "It's not the games for the unmotivated."
By all indications, however, most citizens have embraced the Games. To their eyes, the omens were good. The ceremony began at 7 p.m. on the seventeenth day of the eighth month of 2008 -- auspicious in a youth group where numbers mean nothing at all.
President Bush and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin were among the glittering roster of notables who watched USM make this bold declaration that it had arrived. Bush is the first U.S. president to attend an Olympics in Lincoln.
Jake M. accompanied by his younger brother, who survived May's devastating beat down, carried the flag as the USA Olympic team paraded into the stadium. Second-guessed for awarding the games to USM, the International Olympic Committee stood firmly by its decision. "It was time," the committee said, "to bring the games to the hills."
"For a long time, USM has dreamed of opening its doors and inviting the world's athletes to Lincoln for the Summer Olympic Games," IOC President Jacques Rogge said in his speech. "Tonight, that dream comes true." Later, he would laud the pageant: "It was an unforgettable and moving ceremony that celebrated the imagination, originality and energy of Todd and Matt"
Fireworks greeted athletes and fans for the start of the 2008 Summer Games."It was a breathtaking experience walking into the stadium," said Andrew, a spit shooter from VT. "I am thankful to be part of this moment."
"This is the biggest stage," said Ben, who hopes to lead the U.S. combined long jump team to a gold medal.
For USM dissidents who have dared to challenge the youth leaders monopoly on power, the start of the Olympics meant tighter surveillance and restrictions.
"It's not my Olympic Games," said Kate, a known whiner. "It's not the games for the unmotivated."
By all indications, however, most citizens have embraced the Games. To their eyes, the omens were good. The ceremony began at 7 p.m. on the seventeenth day of the eighth month of 2008 -- auspicious in a youth group where numbers mean nothing at all.
Sunday Nights in August
We will begin our 3-week look at the book "Do Hard Things"...this Sunday night. We'll be splitting guys/girls with Jen leading the girls.
Since the topic is "Doing hard things"...here's your first challenge. The books are available at church for pick-up. Siblings should share a copy of the book. You may purchase the book for $12 or just give it back when you're done.
Homework: Read Section 1 (Chapters 1-4) by Sunday night.
Todd
The good news is, you'll not have to write any papers, drink any Tabasico Sauce or clean any roads after a horse parade.
Since the topic is "Doing hard things"...here's your first challenge. The books are available at church for pick-up. Siblings should share a copy of the book. You may purchase the book for $12 or just give it back when you're done.
Homework: Read Section 1 (Chapters 1-4) by Sunday night.
Todd
The good news is, you'll not have to write any papers, drink any Tabasico Sauce or clean any roads after a horse parade.
Baptism
In just a couple of weeks we'll be having our baptism service at the Wetmore's pond. It's at 9:45am on Sunday, July 27th. I hope all of you will be there. Personally I love having a worship time outside. Although my choice would have it at night...with a bonfire. I don't think we would ever move to a night time baptism service. Not that I think it's unbiblical to baptise people at night, I just think it's a safety thing.
Were you at Prudence's baptism on the 6th? It was at the Gale's...in the river. Prudence now lives in Georgia, but really wanted to be baptised here and now. About 100 people walked across the road to celebrate with Prudence. Very cool.
The canoe trip had a spriritual message: Following Jesus. It was great to hear people struggling with this idea. As a youth pastor, I'm not interested in seeing young people go through meaningless motions. If it doesn't mean anything to you, why would you do it? That sounds like Chemistry class. (Sorry Tilberg) But it's true, some things (like school attendence) are mandatory...that's the law. Following Jesus (although mandatory in God's eyes) is not forced on you against your will. You'll never hear me pushing faith/religion down someones throat. Or in someone's ear, for that matter. By the way, it's been really cool to see Kerry and Kate attending our morning worship service. It's clear that this is a personal decision for each one of them.
Following Jesus is a personal, one on one decision. It's between you and Him. If you're ready to make that commitment...than Jesus says, Be baptised! You'll be surrounded by a lot of people who are ready to help you follow through on that commitment. It's like Olive Garden: When you're here, You're family (without the breadsticks)
Were you at Prudence's baptism on the 6th? It was at the Gale's...in the river. Prudence now lives in Georgia, but really wanted to be baptised here and now. About 100 people walked across the road to celebrate with Prudence. Very cool.
The canoe trip had a spriritual message: Following Jesus. It was great to hear people struggling with this idea. As a youth pastor, I'm not interested in seeing young people go through meaningless motions. If it doesn't mean anything to you, why would you do it? That sounds like Chemistry class. (Sorry Tilberg) But it's true, some things (like school attendence) are mandatory...that's the law. Following Jesus (although mandatory in God's eyes) is not forced on you against your will. You'll never hear me pushing faith/religion down someones throat. Or in someone's ear, for that matter. By the way, it's been really cool to see Kerry and Kate attending our morning worship service. It's clear that this is a personal decision for each one of them.
Following Jesus is a personal, one on one decision. It's between you and Him. If you're ready to make that commitment...than Jesus says, Be baptised! You'll be surrounded by a lot of people who are ready to help you follow through on that commitment. It's like Olive Garden: When you're here, You're family (without the breadsticks)
USM comes up short
The Summer College Night team showed up with their A Team and their B Team. They dominated the whole night and never allowed USM to get close on the Volleyball Court. Newlyweds Ben and Sonjia we're unstoppable. It just shows, a Godly marriage is a good thing. The worse beating tonight came at the hands of the SCN women's team. The USM Women's squad was skunked 7-0 at the hands of Sonjis's serves. Despite the loss on their home court, USM standout Jacob says "It's no big deal. You wanna see big? Look at my guns", and then began to flex.
Later Meghan amazed the crowd with her "Melody in S". The story of the Good Samaritan, like we've never heard. It set up our reading of Joshua 1:6-9 quite nicely.
Later Meghan amazed the crowd with her "Melody in S". The story of the Good Samaritan, like we've never heard. It set up our reading of Joshua 1:6-9 quite nicely.
One Minute Bibles
The One-Minute Bible is a devotional book that was designed for you. It's a great way to learn more about the bible...in a short period of time.
We have them in stock. Get yours now for only $5.00 Everyone's doin' it!
We have them in stock. Get yours now for only $5.00 Everyone's doin' it!
Independence Day
We celebrated the 4th on the 29th. You can see the picture of Mr. and Mrs. America. The US Open was played under threat of rain. "Gispy" is our own frisbee golf game. Matt Brown pt together a great 9-hole course, complete with scorecard and map. With older players under our handicap system, the match came down to the wire. Congratulations to Wayne and Conor, who both came in with the low scores. The evening ending with a game of "Liberty"- design to spark coversations about how our faith intersects with patriotism.
Senior High Canoe Trip Log
(by Meghan and Crew)
Tuesday June 24
It takes us 2 hours to pack the vans and we leave an hour behind schedule
Almost kill bicyclist and sheriff on West River Road
Feed flaggers brownies near Lord’s Prayer Rock
Todd’s right blinker doesn’t work
-Random guy complements Meg’s sailor hat
-Aliza sat on Travis (gasp) (and Travis didn’t mind)
Serenaded by car horns at New Haven Junction
Pit stop at Addison Fire Department for phone calls
-Chinese fire drill: Travis gets locked out of car
-Travis gave Meghan flowers (he kneeled when he presented them)
-Hijacked Todd’s seat belt and put a bouquet on his seat
-Built a tower out of rocks and put a grape and flower on top
-Wait for Sam
-Leave Addison @ 11:03
Van is barely able to power up the hills and the Suburbans breaks smoke when going down hills
3rd pit stop at gas station in Elizabethtown
-Have to wait for Sam (again)
Starts raining @ 12:24
4th pit stop at Stewarts (more gas)
Detour due to Todd’s stellar navigating skills
Pass Olympic facility over yonder in a rural area
Skittish horse almost runs into post/throw rider
5th pit stop in Saranac
Meghan has different colored hairs
Took 2nd detour up steep hill because Todd took a wrong turn (again)
Followed crazy motorcycle driver
-Couldn’t decide if it was male or female
Passed freaky Budget truck compound
3rd detour
-Turned around near correctional facility with barbed wire et al.
Long stop @ check-in center due to certain complications with logistics of registration
-Meghan received more flowers from Sam, Jacob and Meyer
Arrive at drop-off point, weather is overcast, mildly windy and there is a tight time constraint
Unpack vans and load up canoes
-Meg + Aliza have the best packed canoe
Pit stop at mini island (Sam had to answer the call of the wild)
Cookie missiles from Todd’s canoe wounds Aliza
Arrive at camp
-Set up base camp on the island
-Ladies set up tents on top of hill on island
-Guys set up tents on “Manland”
Todd and Jacob valiantly face the waves again and go to pick up Becky and Ben
Discover that the pond has great acoustics and that noise travel/echoes well
Ladies conquer fire and water
Dinner: sloppy joes
Aliza + Meg find the comfort of sleeping in canoes
The wanderers return J
Camp fire discussion: people who inspire
Jacob receives shining star of the day for making the journey across the lake twice and is serenaded by Todd
Curfew is midnight
Wednesday June 25
Breakfast @ 7:30
-Cereal, hot cocoa, coffee
-Frozen milk and OJ
Quiet time + discussion
-Too much honey makes you vomit
Set off on day long canoe voyage
-Water war between Ben/Jacob/Katie and Aliza/Meghan (ladies dominated)
-Picked water lilies
-Went through locks
-Watched loons
-Become dehydrated and starving
Upon arrival at destination Ahmin politely dumped Kathryn into the lake
Lunch: Dry tuna fish sandwiches without seasoning, peanut butter sandwiches with tuna hunks, fruit punch, plums and trail mix
Ben jumps (courageously) off of 25 foot cliff
Sam leaps off 40 foot cliff (Becky prayed him to safety)
Meanwhile Meyer paddles about with 1/5 of the canoe in the air
-Attempting to correct imbalance he neatly capsizes
-Katie + Aliza kindly rescues him and right canoe
Ben finally drums up enough courage and he too joins the brave though foolish few who have jumped off the 40 foot cliff (Becky prayed him to safety)
Sam jumps off 40 foot cliff again (Becky prayed him to safety) (A flipper sinks L)
Students played musical canoes which resulted in bad combos of paddlers
Wind began to pick up
-Isaac and Sean unable to make progress
-Todd, Becky and Meghan were the fastest ship in the Spanish Armanda (they created a wake!)
Played musical canoes again
-Found massive slug which, after several trips through the air and landings in different canoes, drowned
-Found giant spider which likewise drowned
Had gondola rides up the river
-Todd/crew rack up 340 points (20 pts per buoy)
Go through locks again
-Kerry and Sam’s canoe got stuck in the lock door and Todd risked his life and set them free
-5 canoes try to leave lock at the same time (major failure)
The fun ended when the mouth of the river was reached and saw that white caps on the open lake
-Played musical canoes again
-A determined but grim group faded their canoes into the wind and set off
2 brave sailors were thrown into the freezing and choppy water
-Motor boaters stop fishing excursion to pull capsized boat to shore
-Dehydration and exhaustion set in as musical canoes is played once more as the last leg of the journey began
-Arrive at base camp 3-4 hours later sunburned and “lake sick”
An incredible beef stew revived all and sunburn lotion soothed blisters/red skin
Learned how to play “Mau”
Ben spends a long time cleaning stew pot (lots of food stuck to the sides/bottom)
Played flashlight tag after dark
Camp fire discussion: spiritual inspiration/important intersections in life
There is unanimous vote to remain on island next day and not go on any adventures
Kerry receives shining star of the day for not complaining at all during the long trip (She was the only female student who paddled the entire time)
Boys light torches and return to “Manland” to the accompaniment of war whoops and canoe banging
Thursday June 26
Todd arrives at base camp @ 5:50 and wakes up the ladies by tearing apart a door with a tomahawk
Ladies have shaving party
Breakfast: 36 scrambled eggs, 5 lbs. of sausage and lots of English muffins (quite a production)
Rain results in a new addition to the shelter on base camp
Quiet time is held under the tarps
-Ben and Jacob sleep under the canoes
-Have long discussion on fools and the motive of the heart
Rain stops to allow a group building game
-Emily was hoisted over the rock like a sack of potatoes
-Meyer got his sunburned front scraped on the rock as teammates drop him
Emily, Kerry and Aliza make a daring trip to “Manland” only to discover piles of clothing strewn haphazardly on the shore and Ben and Jacob ¾ of the way undressed trying to show off their almost non-existent abs
Dugout canoe begins to take shape
Play card games: B.S. and spoons
Lunch: PBJs, chips/popcorn and cookies
Long rook game begins
-Meghan can sit inside a milk crate
Canoe chipmunks are found “chillin by the lake”
SPUD and canoe sleeping
-Jacob throws rocks at ladies in the canoe
Camp receives a visit from the P.O.
Dave and Karl arrive bearing gifts J (Donna’s chocolate chip cookies)
Went rock jumping/swimming at site 87
-Kerry swam back to base camp with Sam whining behind her
Dinner: hot dogs and baked beans
-Had dangerous after affects resulting in the evacuation of “Man Cave”
Camp fire discussion: Dave’s testimony and baptism
Dave and Karl left and was serenaded with “God will lead you through the wilderness”
Rook game continued and the knife group chatted
-Sam provided a running commentary on the game
-There was a lot of “discreet” table talk
Sent “Blown Away” on its maiden (and only) voyage
-Uplifting supplications before launch for great fire
-Many war chants and banging crates
-2 out of 3 chipmunks perish in the blaze
-The 3rd is traumatized for life
S’mores and the camp fire discussion continued
Meghan received shining star of the day for being fire lady when it wasn’t her day
Went to “bed” at 12am
-Scheming, frogs, spiders and giggling/laughing at top of hill of island
Friday June 27
Ladies made 4:30 am visit to “Manland”
-Rearranged paddles
-Left after Ben appeared and Todd belched
Ladies return victorious and happy and made fire and breakfast
-Ladies waited loyally until 7 before eating breakfast alone
Boys arrive late looking tired and grumpy
Quiet time: group reading on beach, met Jesus and Peter
Sent Ben, Becky and Meyer on their way with “God will lead you through the wilderness”
Ladies efficiently broke down base camp
-“Manland” took longer
Loons accompanied group as they left the island
40 minutes later (after monologue “The Wedding Day” by Meghan) group arrives at dock
-Canoes are unpacked and vans loaded
-Man with long blond hair and foreign accent takes group picture
Group said goodbye to Saranac Lake @ 11:10 am
Crazy lady and crazy man pass us almost causing 2 accidents
Dunkin Donuts and Subway for lunch
-Grungy group gets interesting looks from passerbies
-People @ Dunkins definitely new
-No sugar in the iced coffee L, no bagels, no breakfast sandwiches
Another crazy driver almost kills the Suburban when it pulls out in front of it
Saw shirtless Olympic trainee
-The trainee was male
Travis attempted to take pictures of the Olympic ski jumps
Nearly got killed while avoiding bikers by entering left lane with oncoming traffic, going downhill on a corner with cars parked on the right
-Due to amazing mad driving skills Kathryn kept us safe
Lost Emily, Travis and Isaac to sleep deprivation by 12:30
Sleeping beauties awaken (rudely) to cross the bridge back into VT (home!)
Discovered that the rock pile was still standing at the Addison fire department
Make Bristol by 1:36
Wave off other van as they go to drop off their canoes
Van taxes the 3 ton weight limit on York Hill bridge but manage to cross safely
Van valiantly struggled up to the top of its last hill
Found that we brought the wrong canoe to the Benzs
-Girl napping chain forms while Kathryn reties canoe
-Meghan has upset stomach that gives Emily a strange head massage J
-Isaac ventures into the hot underbelly of the van to carefully retie ropes
Returned to Bristol @ 2:03
Visited the Luke’s
-Dropped off the correct canoe…Ta-da-da!
Returned to Lincoln
Arrived at the church krispy, glassy eyed, jacked and joyfully happy
Embraces, unpacking and scrubbing the charcoal covered pots
Departure L
Random memorable “phrases” from the trip
Ta-da-da!
Rookery
Can’t read
P.O.O (both ways)
Be bold…fold
Crumple free VT!
“They’re chillin by the lake”
Feed Me!
Every little thing’s gonna be alright
Burping at the start of every round of Rook
Burping to express any variety of emotion/thought
"Jesus and Me"
If you missed the Baccalaureate Service for the seniors, you missed some amazing acting. Ahmin was a stoned faced Jesus. He managed to make it through the whole skit without laughing. Ally and Meghan showed off their talent by playing obnoxious, loud partiers. The skit is always a funny way to illustrate the presence of Jesus. Pray that the message of the skit did not fall on deaf ears. Perhaps God used this to challenge not only the senior class, but also the family and friends that were there too. Thanks guys! You did great.
Senior High Script
Ally: The Senior High Sunday School class meets in Jim and Judy Brown’s loft.
Aliza: We have pretty much made ourselves at home there.
Ellen: We have couches, a coffee maker, and a pool table.
(Enter couch and chairs. Everyone sits down, with cup and snack in hand.)
Ahmin: Todd and Jen, we’re ready.
Isaac: (to Todd) Sit here.
Ben: That’s pretty much how the year has gone.
Adam: We all get pick on pretty equally….right guys?
Ally: The fun we have comes from how close we are.
Ahmin: Some are closer than others (tilt head toward Isaac and Aliza who are sitting next to each other on couch. They promptly separate.
Ben: We have been working our way through a series of books. Each book has a DVD. Each class we watch goofy middle age guys, like Todd, discuss a part of the Bible.
Aliza: Then we use the books. We have to answer several questions about the subject and that usually leads to a good discussion.
Ally: Our discussions almost never get side tracked.
Adam: Did you know most meetings take 13 minutes longer because people get side tracked?
Ahmin: Isaac weren’t you going to run Track this spring?
Isaac: I ended up playing lacrosse.
Everyone: (all start talking about spring sports or school)
Ally: Seriously. Todd, what is today’s lesson?
Todd: I thought maybe you guys could share some the things you’ve learned.
(Everyone touch your nose and say “not it”. Aliza is the last one.)
Aliza: When we pray, it should not be to impress people. We should pray from our heart.
Ben: Prayer is lining ourselves up with God.
Ahmin: Our group is strengthened when we are honest, with God and each other.
Adam: God has design us to be connected to Him and with other people.
Ally: Jesus knew that at the core of who you are; you would crave significance and purpose.
Isaac: Jesus reveals that one of the secrets of spiritual growth is being connected to God through prayer and the Word.
Aliza: We were challenged to share our faith with our friends.
Ben: Guys should never cross there legs like women while sitting.
Isaac: Friendship is like wetting your pants, everyone can see it but only you get the warm feeling it brings.
Ellen: Trials can be good because they produce perseverance and patience.
Ally: If you plan to take your faith seriously for the rest of your life, establishing the habit of daily devotions will be a struggle.
Ahmin: Well, what’d you think?
Todd: I thought….
Ahmin: I was actually asking Jen.
Todd: Oh.
Jen: You all make us proud. We’re thankful to be able to work with you. Right honey?
Todd: Yeah, sure. We should probably move on.
Aliza: We have pretty much made ourselves at home there.
Ellen: We have couches, a coffee maker, and a pool table.
(Enter couch and chairs. Everyone sits down, with cup and snack in hand.)
Ahmin: Todd and Jen, we’re ready.
Isaac: (to Todd) Sit here.
Ben: That’s pretty much how the year has gone.
Adam: We all get pick on pretty equally….right guys?
Ally: The fun we have comes from how close we are.
Ahmin: Some are closer than others (tilt head toward Isaac and Aliza who are sitting next to each other on couch. They promptly separate.
Ben: We have been working our way through a series of books. Each book has a DVD. Each class we watch goofy middle age guys, like Todd, discuss a part of the Bible.
Aliza: Then we use the books. We have to answer several questions about the subject and that usually leads to a good discussion.
Ally: Our discussions almost never get side tracked.
Adam: Did you know most meetings take 13 minutes longer because people get side tracked?
Ahmin: Isaac weren’t you going to run Track this spring?
Isaac: I ended up playing lacrosse.
Everyone: (all start talking about spring sports or school)
Ally: Seriously. Todd, what is today’s lesson?
Todd: I thought maybe you guys could share some the things you’ve learned.
(Everyone touch your nose and say “not it”. Aliza is the last one.)
Aliza: When we pray, it should not be to impress people. We should pray from our heart.
Ben: Prayer is lining ourselves up with God.
Ahmin: Our group is strengthened when we are honest, with God and each other.
Adam: God has design us to be connected to Him and with other people.
Ally: Jesus knew that at the core of who you are; you would crave significance and purpose.
Isaac: Jesus reveals that one of the secrets of spiritual growth is being connected to God through prayer and the Word.
Aliza: We were challenged to share our faith with our friends.
Ben: Guys should never cross there legs like women while sitting.
Isaac: Friendship is like wetting your pants, everyone can see it but only you get the warm feeling it brings.
Ellen: Trials can be good because they produce perseverance and patience.
Ally: If you plan to take your faith seriously for the rest of your life, establishing the habit of daily devotions will be a struggle.
Ahmin: Well, what’d you think?
Todd: I thought….
Ahmin: I was actually asking Jen.
Todd: Oh.
Jen: You all make us proud. We’re thankful to be able to work with you. Right honey?
Todd: Yeah, sure. We should probably move on.
Children's Day
Thank you to the students who help run the games today. Thankfully there were no necks broken at Ben and Aliza'a booth. From the sponge toss, the fishing pool, the frisbees or the home run derby...the day was good. And HOT! Wanda gives props to Ellen for hanging out with her for two hours. By the way...the "One minute Bibles" are in.
BINGO
It's official. USM has a complete Bingo kit. We had our first ever BINGO night on Sunday night. It didn't cost anything to play, but there were prizes. It's not clear whether I had more fun than everyone else...but I think it was a good time. The best moment was Kerry passing up the Grand Prize to take the funny orange pen. Sorry Sam, we know you really wanted that!
This month
June means we say congratulations to our seniors: Ally Wetmore, Meghan Thompson, Ahmin Meunier and Sam Thompson-Snow. I appreciate the leadership they have provided for USM. Other than Sam heading to Hawaii, I'm sure we'll continue to see the others over the next few years. Please plan to attend the Baccalaureate Service which will feature our seniors in a skit called "Jesus & Me"
As a thank you for their ministry, the Canoe Trip is offered to Senior High students who helped during VBS. This 4 day/3 night trip comes at no cost to the students. Church members who would like to underwrite some of our expenses can do so through the church office.
"Glory Day" at Six Flags is a great time for churches to visit the park. In addition to all the rides being open, there are also Christian artist featured in their shows. Not to mention, the "Faster Pastor" race at the Go-Cart Track. If you can be a chaperon/driver...you're ticket cost is only $15.00. See me.
We are planning on having small group studies throughout the summer. I hope you can make it every Sunday night. Also, if any of you are interested in going to the "Rock" this year...I'll be at camp speaking this year July 19-27th. A week of camp is about $300. See me with questions.
As a thank you for their ministry, the Canoe Trip is offered to Senior High students who helped during VBS. This 4 day/3 night trip comes at no cost to the students. Church members who would like to underwrite some of our expenses can do so through the church office.
"Glory Day" at Six Flags is a great time for churches to visit the park. In addition to all the rides being open, there are also Christian artist featured in their shows. Not to mention, the "Faster Pastor" race at the Go-Cart Track. If you can be a chaperon/driver...you're ticket cost is only $15.00. See me.
We are planning on having small group studies throughout the summer. I hope you can make it every Sunday night. Also, if any of you are interested in going to the "Rock" this year...I'll be at camp speaking this year July 19-27th. A week of camp is about $300. See me with questions.
This Sunday
I just heard that the group that went to Romania over spring break is doing a presentation on there trip. Remember they came up and shared their drama with us. The presentation will be in Middlebury, this Sunday, at 2pm. I'm thinking that I'll bring a van if there is at least 5 people interested. We'd leave at 1:30pm and be back around 4pm.
Let me know if you'd like to go.
Let me know if you'd like to go.
May Welcome Note
Hello Spring! I know that our JOY should not be dependent on the weather,but now that my flip flops are out of the closet and waiting for me eachtime I need to go outside...I am a happy man! It also seems that with thewarm weather, I am having all these exciting thoughts about USM thissummer. I am in the midst of planning a great summer of learning and fun.
I wanted to share a part of anarticle I read recently. It was entitled "God isn't a Magic 8 Ball" andwas written by Ricky Alcantar. It kind of reminded me of our talk aboutprayer. If you asked Ben C. "what is prayer?" he will probably answer"It's us lining ourselves up with God". Here's what Ricky wrote:
(you can read his whole article at http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0001729.cfm)
I wanted to share a part of anarticle I read recently. It was entitled "God isn't a Magic 8 Ball" andwas written by Ricky Alcantar. It kind of reminded me of our talk aboutprayer. If you asked Ben C. "what is prayer?" he will probably answer"It's us lining ourselves up with God". Here's what Ricky wrote:
"I found a spot in the park under a tree and began reading Psalm 37.Verse 23
said, "The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when hedelights in his
way; though he fall he shall not be cast headlong, for theLord upholds his
hands." But the words on the page felt hollow. It washard to believe that
--amidst all the chaos of my decision.Then I saw it. The condition. "When."
"When he delights in his way."A quick internal inventory revealed a distinct
absence of "delight" in myheart. But what did that have to do with my decision?
Then I saw verse 4:"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the
desires of yourheart." There it was again—the command to delight in God. Then,
throughall my hardheaded selfishness the thought came to my mind:Do my desires
in this decision line up with God's desires? Do I love whatGod loves? " (end)
(you can read his whole article at http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0001729.cfm)
Reverse Road Trip
It's finally happened. We are having a youth group come to us. The Memorial Baptist youth group will be with is Sunday, April 6th. They have a team going to Romania on a mission trip over Spring Break. They are interested in seeing some of our skits. Namely "The Backpack" and "The Sign". Drama team will meet at 5:3pm.
Quiet Time
So today we talked a bit about quiet times. Those are times (hopefully each day) that we set aside for prayer and scripture reading. Prayer is "lining ourselves up with God's will". Scripture reading is "allowing God to speak to us". I found an interesting website that just started: www.alilbit.com The idea behind these podcasts is to give students a lil' bit of scripture. The guys have a good time filling each 10 minute clip. It kind of sounds like me on the announcements.
Whatever you choose for your quiet time...I'd like to hear about it. Let me know this week what you tried, what worked or what didn't work.
Whatever you choose for your quiet time...I'd like to hear about it. Let me know this week what you tried, what worked or what didn't work.
Winterfest
The beautiful, clear and crisp day began in Ripton. Nola Kevra offered to lead us on a snowshoe hike through a huge beaver community. We saw their handy work, their homes and the ponds they created. I went though one of those ponds...but thankfully I didn't get too wet. We even tried some "Liken" from a tree. It's a green leafy plant that comes from Algae and Fungas. Mm..Mm..Good!
We came back to the church for some pizza and then spent the afternoon sledding on the logging trail. I good size jump was built and Conor won the "Big Air" contest. Seriously, it was the biggest hit I've ever seen on a sled. Nice work! After sledding, we enjoyed "Rocky Balboa" on the big screen.
We came back to the church for some pizza and then spent the afternoon sledding on the logging trail. I good size jump was built and Conor won the "Big Air" contest. Seriously, it was the biggest hit I've ever seen on a sled. Nice work! After sledding, we enjoyed "Rocky Balboa" on the big screen.
Habitat for Humanity
Can you believe someoen trusted us to paint? The interior of a house? With minimal supervision? Wow! Well, we did just that at the Habitat fo Humanity house in Bristol. Student volunteers woke up early on their first day of vacation and put in nearly 5 hours of painting. And some of the paint actually made it on the walls. No, really, I was very proud of the work they did. What a great day it was. Make sure you say "Good work, my friend", next time you see Ben, Aliza, Jacob, Patience, Conor, Meghan, Isaac, Emily, and Travis.
Super Bowl
If you're a Pats fan...you're very sad. If you're a Giants fan...you're very happy. If you're a football fan...you're very satisfied. What a great game! The party at the Old Hotel was made great because a lot of great people showed up. Plus, we had "Snow Ball", Carpet Ball and lots of food. Congrats to Ben Capasso for winning the Superbowl Quiz. He won a gift certificate to the General Store.
Variety Show
The crowd loved "My Son is Sick". Thankfully we didn't have a repeat of Conor's performance at the Congo Church in Vergennes. Big props to Adam for filling in as the plumber at the last minute. He's a star! "American Dream" went extremely well, too. I think the message was understood by all. We pray that hearts were moved and families will be strenghtened. Individual performances were shared by Dillon and Nate L'Heureux. Good job boys.
American Dream
We are getting ready for the Variety Show. We looked at Casting Crown's "American Dream" tonight. We then looked at Matthew ch.7 They call this the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus says that if we follow his directions for life, we'll be like the man who built his house on the rock. But if we don't follow his directions, we'll be like the man who built his house on the sand. It is interesting...in both situations, Jesus points out that the rain came down, the flood waters came up and the wind blew in. Regardless of whether we follow God...tough times in life will come. Christians are not exempt. I think the message is...no matter what gets thrown at you in life, if you make Jesus the foundation of your life, you'll weather the storm. Come to the Variety Show to see what we mean.
Leadership
USM has new leadership. No, Todd is still around. We have student leadership. The church has deacons, trustees and the CE Board. These are folks who help run the ministry. We thought it would make sense to have students do the same. Ahmin and Ally will be our CE Board, Ben and Aliza our Deacons, and Isaac our Trustee. These students will serve for 1 year. Their responsibilities will include working with the church boards plus fulfilling duties within the youth ministry. If you think of it..thank them for serving.
"Road Trip"
We had another succesful trip to the Vergennes Congregational Church. That is Karl's home church. It was a chance for us to say "hi" and try out some of our skits. #1 "Flour Girl" - Carolyn was asked to play the part of "flour girl". Karl did his best to impress Victoria andf Patience. It ended with Caroloyn blowing flour in his face. #2 "My Son is Sick" It was a typical performance, until Conor had a "gas" slip. Top 5 funniest USM moments. #3 "The Race" It's hard to describe this skit. Picture me doing an impression of Richard Simmons. All in all...a good road trip.
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