The Opequon Spirit“Prayerfully Equipping Disciples of All Generations to be Christ’s Hands, Heart and Feet

in the World”

MAY 2017WORSHIP IN MAY AT 8:30 & 11:00

AM

Sunday, May 7th – Older Adult Sunday/Apple Blossom Sunday

Psalm 23, John 10:1-10Communion, CCAP, Older Adult ChoirHonoring Our Older Adults of OpequonWelcoming Our Ethiopian Guests

Sunday, May 14th – Mother’s Day/Christian Family Sunday

1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14Sermon: “You Know the Way!”Honoring the Mothers and Women of Opequon

Sunday, May 21st – Presbyterian Heritage Sunday/Graduation Sunday

Acts 17:22-31, John 14:15-21Sermon: “Journeys”Honoring Our High School GraduatesFellowship Reception

Sunday, May 28th – Memorial Weekend Sunday

Acts 1:6-14, John 17:1-11Sermon: “Open Hearts”Four Cents a Meal, Fair Trade CoffeeRemembering Those Who Have Served

CHURCH OFFICE CLOSEDThe Church Office will be closed on Friday, May 5th for Apple Blossom. It is also closed on Monday, May 29th

for Memorial Day.

OLDER ADULT CHOIROn Sunday, May 7th, we will celebrate the older adults at Opequon Church. We invite all older adults of Opequon to sing at 8:30 and 11:00 am worship services. ’Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus will be the anthem. Rehearsal will be on Wednesday, May 3rd at 4:00 p.m. if you have questions, please contact Susan Homan at 540-665-9844 or srh1305@verizon.net.

COLLECTING FOR CCAP

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MINISTRY TEAM NIGHTTuesday, May 2nd

Dinner—6:00 pmPulled Pork, Various Salads, and Dessert Prepared by the Spiritual Growth Class

Suggested donation $3 per personDevotions—6:45 pm

Ministry Team Meetings—6:45 pm

OLDER ADULT SUNDAY, MAY 7th Celebrate the gift of generations at

Opequon!Give thanks for our multi-generational

congregation!Older adults share, serve, and sing!

We are so blessed!(Wear pink & green too!!)

Macaroni & Cheese

NOTES FROM THE PASTOR:“Rest, Renewal, and Study”

Dear Friends in Christ,Unbelievably, our family moved to Frederick County almost twenty years ago, in June of 1997. I have had the distinct privilege of humbly serving as your pastor and as pastor of this historic and growing congregation since that July. Wow! It has been a full and fast twenty years of ministry, a tremendous blessing to me and to my family. As you may remember from reading previous newsletters during recent months, the session has approved a two-month sabbatical for me from June 26 through August 27 and has also established a Sabbatical Committee of Steve Brown, Robin Eddy, Mitch Orndorff, and Graham Taylor to help both me and the congregation prepare for this time away. I am also grateful that my wife, Carole, has been granted a one-month sabbatical for the month of July, as she will mark fifteen years as Opequon’s Director of Christian Education this September. When I had my last sabbatical back in 2006, I was off and away for much of three and a half months while Carole was still maintaining her normal work schedule. So, it is wonderful to be able to share a time of rest, renewal and study together. As we move toward this time away, I thought it would be helpful for me to look ahead with you and to share some thoughts about this opportunity.

First, what is a sabbatical? Our presbytery’s Sabbatical Policy states, “A sabbatical is a time for rest and renewal and supports future growth. “Sabbatical” means every seven years. Sabbatical leave is an extension of the Biblical concept of a sabbath day and a sabbath year for renewal. It is both an act of faith that God will sustain us through a period of reflection and changed activity and an occasion for recovery and renewal of vital energies. For the pastor, sabbatical leave is a carefully planned period in which a pastor is granted leave away from normal ministerial responsibilities in order to spend an extended period in study and reflection. Sabbatical leave is not a vacation, nor is it expressly continuing education. For the congregation, sabbatical leave can allow the people to re-establish their corporate memory or clarify their identity as a congregation. Without the normal relationships and patterns of reliance that a pastorate can create, the congregation recovers their sense of ministry to the church and to each other. The sabbatical is an opportunity to identify new patterns that can strengthen the church.”Secondly, why a sabbatical? As I have mentioned, in July I will have served as Opequon’s pastor for twenty years. During that time, I have experienced the joy of Christian service, to preach and teach, to visit and administer, to listen and care. Admittedly, the last few years have been challenging, as the need for pastoral care within the congregation has multiplied and as we have bid farewell to so many dear people. My own grief shared with you has definitely struck me. This sabbatical will intentionally provide me with time for rest, renewal, and study and will allow me to return refreshed and prepared to engage in an ever-deepening ministry. In responding to God, I believe this sabbatical will renew my call to Opequon Church and will sustain a

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continuing long-term pastorate into the future. Finally, what will be happening during this sabbatical period? Reading, writing, and no arithmetic! I want to sit on my front porch or on the hammock in my back yard and read. I want to write profusely, especially recording my observations on how the church has changed and is changing and what I am reading and hearing, about a new day, a new vision, and a new mission for the church going forward. I will be attending and participating in the Intergenerate Conference in Nashville, TN, where I will join other church leaders from a variety of traditions in asking the same question, “How can we bring the generations back together?” Carole and I will be

spending time interviewing and dialoguing with pastors, educators, and lay leaders of churches regarding the changing face of the church today and particularly, ministry to

families today. We will also be journeying through the Midwestern and Rocky Mountain regions of the United States, sitting on a rock or hiking trails with no access to technology. As my time wraps up, I will then be going on a four-day silent retreat at the Holy Cross Abbey in Clarke County, where I may find spiritual renewal within a time and place “set aside.” At our April meeting, the session approved additional duties and compensation for our new parish associate, Tracie Martin, to serve as supply pastor while I am away. Tracie will serve as head of staff and moderator of session during this time; a worship and preaching schedule has been worked out so she will preach six of the nine Sundays with guest speakers here the other three Sundays, as is typical during the summer

months. I know you will appreciate Tracie’s leadership and she will enjoy serving in this role, as she has already been working diligently and conscientiously in caring for our congregation and feels so blessed by those growing relationships.I thank you and the session for allowing me this time away. I am grateful for the anticipated rest, renewal, and study. I covet your prayers and am praying for you and our community of faith as we serve together and follow through in our commitment to Christ and His Church.

Together in Christ’s Service,

JUST THINKIN’Do you remember May Day? When I was a child we made cone shaped May baskets out of old wallpaper book pages. We added a pasted-on handle and filled the baskets with flowers. Lilacs and blooming shrubs were always my favorites. Early in the morning on May 1st, we would run through the neighborhood hanging May baskets on door knobs and ringing the doorbell. When someone came to the door, it was their job to catch us and give us a kiss. Catching a child who is determined not to be caught is very difficult for an older adult – and most of the people we gifted with baskets were older members of the community. Most of them just threw kisses and took in their baskets. My grandfather, however, was a determined man. Grandpa would get up even earlier than excited children and wait by the door. When a basket was detected he would run down the porch to catch us. There were three grandchildren to catch. He usually managed to get my sister first as she was the youngest and easiest to

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catch. I was caught next; I never was a great runner. My brother, however, could run like the wind. Grandpa would chase and chase without success. I’m not sure my brother got kissed even once. There were rules for giving May Baskets:

The gift was anonymous (sort of) Children gave to adults, not the

other way around Almost anything could brighten a

person’s day May Baskets heralded Spring

May baskets are a reminder of simpler times when children could run around the neighborhood and still get to school on time. Back then we did things like washing or drying someone’s dishes “for love.” No payment expected. They also remind me of my early faith. As a child, I didn’t really understand God. God was experienced through the thoughtful actions of our church congregation. A pot of soup when Mom was ill, a flower for Grandma when Grandpa died, or the words, “I’ll be praying for you,” were experiences related to God. It took a bit to understand the impact of “I’ll be praying for you,” to make it into a child’s understanding, but we knew praying was important. Somehow knowing that prayer was happening changed situations. I remember that I began to understand prayer when Math got beyond simple addition and subtraction. I was not a good mathematics student. I began praying in earnest in second grade when we had math tests. I cannot say that God gave me the answers to tough problems, but praying seemed to calm me just enough to pass. As I matured, I learned about praying for someone rather than some-thing. Then I began to pray in many forms. It became

a practice – not a habit – a practice that involved learning and being intentional. Prayer, like a May basket, can be anonymous. No one needs to know for whom one prays. It is a gift of love that needs no response (although a kiss sent across the lawn is nice). It is something we give to those we love and to those only God loves. Often it is a gift of reversal; personal power has no place in prayer. Almost anything can make a good prayer. God provides whatever we lack. It heralds new life and new growth – in any season. And best of all, it can be given in any season.

In Christ,

SESSION HIGHLIGHTSApril 18, 2017 Stated Meeting

Mission Ministry reported that Opequon is hosting a “Rise Against Hunger” event on April 22, and planning is well underway for “Opequon on the Lawn” on May 20.

The Evangelism Team is seeking a volunteer to help with maintaining our Name Tags.

The Personnel Team reported that Rev. Tracie Martin, our Parish Associate, has been a big help. She will be examined by the Presbytery on May 2 and received by the Presbytery on May 9.

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Several people have looked at the manse, but we do not have a tenant yet. The prohibition of animals seems to be a concern.

The Technology and Communication Team reported that live streaming of our services should be available by July.

On the recommendation of Worship, Session approved Mac and Paula McNichols as communion stewards in odd months. Worship is seeking communion stewards for the even months.

Session approved a single worship service at 10 am during the months of July and August.

May 7 will be Older Adult Sunday. Also on that day, Kes Tariku from Ethiopia will preach.

The Visioning Team will hold its first meeting on April 23.

Session continued its discussion of future staffing needs of the church.

Session also continued its discussion of the remaining Lupton Grant proposals.

HELP WANTEDRobert Sydnor will be on vacation in May. There are 4 days that still need coverage: Tuesday, May 9, Tuesday May 16, Wednesday, May 17 and Thursday,

May 18. All supplies and training is furnished. Please contact Robert at sexton@opequonchurch.org or call his cell 540-336-2775.

OLDER ADULT HAPPENINGSThe month of May is “Older Adult Month” and so we honor ALL our older adults of Opequon! We kick it off with Older Adult Sunday on May 7 with many older adults sharing in leadership of worship and an older adult choir sharing a special anthem. The Older Adult Ministry Team will meet on Monday, May 1, 9:30 am in the Bageant Room for their monthly time of planning and fellowship. The meeting is open to any older adults who would like to come. Happy Days gathering is Wednesday, May 10, beginning at noon in the Fellowship Hall with a delicious covered dish lunch followed by a guest speaker from Kernstown Battlefield.

An older adult outing to the Apple Blossom Prayer Brunch is on Friday, May 5 at Fellowship Bible Church. All ticket holders are asked to meet at the Prayer Brunch location about 9:00am.

The annual Older Adult Luncheon Event is Wednesday, May 24, with entertainment in the sanctuary at 11:30 and the lunch to follow in the fellowship hall at 12:15. The entertainment is “Old Time Music” by Annie and Mac. The lunch menu includes Chicken Strata, Green Beans, Fresh Fruit, Rolls, and Texas Sheet Cake. Please RSVP to Carole Witt (dce@opequonchurch.org or 662-1843) by May 10. The “2017 Older Adult of Opequon” will be announced at the luncheon. This event is truly in honor of all our older adults! This is an extraordinary month as we are grateful for the wisdom, leadership, and companionship of all Opequon’s older adults!

NOMINATE AN OLDER ADULT FOR“Opequon’s 2017 Older Adult”

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MOTHER’S DAYCHRISTIAN FAMILY

SUNDAYMAY 14th

As families, come together for worship. Honor “Mom.” Give thanks for our faith community. Renew your commitment as families.

So many of our older adults have been recognized as our “Older Adults of the Year”. We celebrate that those crowned in the past are Roy Bayliss, John Boyd, Frances Smith, Louise Duncan, Bill Robinson, Shirley and Dave Brumble, Rob MacGregor, Ty Headley, Edgar Tufts, Howard Kent, Donna Coffman, Betty Ganoe, Carol Tubbs, and Graham Taylor. It is time to share nominations for this year’s older adult of the year. Who would you like to nominate? There are forms available on the Gathering Area table. Share who you nominate and WHY. Nominations are due by May 7 and they may come from anyone in the congregation. Forms may be returned to Carole Witt or dropped in the box provided on the table. The session will review the nominations and make their selection at their May meeting. The 2017 Older Adult of the year will be announced at the annual Older Adult Luncheon on May 24.

CONFIRMATION CONNECTIONThank you to Opequon’s Ministry Teams for welcoming our confirmation students in recent months as they made visits to various teams. This experience certainly allows them to see a bigger picture of how their church operates and all the people who help with the ministry of Opequon Church. Recently, the students were fortunate to have Pastor David spend class time with them to review and discuss the final paper each student is asked to write. This month the students will be sharing their papers with the Session and covenant partners, spending time doing some interviews with their parents and preparing for Confirmation Day, which is June 4. Please continue to remember these students in your prayers: Paige Clark, Reagan Tibbs, and Cameron Ritter.

THE LATEST IN LOGOS

We never lose our vision and excitement for LOGOS- and that is certainly reflected in the work of our LOGOS leadership team as they have begun plans for our 20th anniversary of LOGOS in 2017-18! The team has spent quality time looking at evaluations from this past year and they have gleaned areas to focus on for a new year of LOGOS. There is already exciting news to share about the upcoming LOGOS year: the date for the opening night of our 20th year will be Wednesday, September 13 and the theme for the year will be “Great Are You Lord-Celebrating 20 Years of LOGOS!” We will keep you in tune as we share oodles of LOGOS information with you before September.WHAT’S UP IN WORM THIS MONTH?

Great plans are ready for our concluding few weeks of WORM before our summer break. The month of May brings new and creative workshops each Sunday morning for preschool-5th grade children. Check out the WORM schedule below:*May 7: “Finding God Around Town”- God is present with us within the church building AND outside the church building. Let’s see if we can find God in so many places!*May 14: “Candy: Yum-Yum! There’s a lesson in the Sweetness!” We may have a sweet tooth and enjoy some candy from time to time, but do we know the lasting sweetness that relying on God can provide?*May 21: “WORM PARTY-Keep God Close By”. Come join the closing WORM celebration for this year as we have a Sunday morning party! All these adventures will happen each Sunday morning at 9:45am. We partner with parents in helping to develop faith and a love of God in our children of all ages. Let us share one hour each Sunday morning with your child!

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CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!Opequon’s High School seniors will be honored during 11:00 am worship on Sunday, May 21. The Christian Education Team is privileged to highlight each of these young people at this special milestone in their life. Caps and gowns are waiting to be worn with pride during upcoming graduation ceremonies. We are very proud of our high school graduates and wish them happiness and fulfillment in the next chapter of life. Congratulations to:Lauren Armstrong...Handley High SchoolTaylor HeishmanJames Wood High SchoolJonathan Lunsford Sherando High SchoolBen Newhouse......Sherando High SchoolMitchell Skowbo. . .Sherando High SchoolMegan Triplett......Sherando High SchoolCameron Veach......Handley High School

IN HONOR OF MOTHERS’ DAY- MAY 14

Happy Mother’s Day to all Moms!

Enjoy these humorous stories as we say THANK YOU to all Mother’s and honor them.

There is a legend that if you go take a shower and scream out loud “MOM” three times, a nice lady appears bringing the towel you forgot.The quickest way for a mother to get her children’s attention is to sit down and look comfortable!Nothing is lost until your mother can’t find it.Of all the rights of women, the greatest is to be a mother. (Lin Yutang)

CHECK OUT A BOOK, A DVD, OR A CD

You are invited to check out any of the wonderful

materials and items that are in our Church Library. The library is nestled neatly in the corner at the bottom of the spiral stairway near the Youth Spot. Much care has been taken to create attractive shelving and in arranging all the useful items that can be found there. There are books for information, pleasure reading, inspirational reading, and resource purposes. There are children’s movies and adult movies. There are music CD’s for all ages. Take a walk down the staircase and “check it out” for yourself. Simple instructions are there to explain the check-out procedure. Help yourself in borrowing items for use at home and then bring them back when you are done. In taking a look at the library area, you will notice that the shelves are very full, and with a good number of additional items to come, there is limited space. THUS, we are no longer taking donations of books. We appreciate your respect of this. Watch for Library items to be on display periodically in the Gathering Area to help highlight some of the great items that are available to you.

THE LENTEN CHALLENGE WAS ACCOMPLISHED!

The challenge set forth to the congregation of filling 40 bags in 40 days during Lent was accomplished by Palm Sunday! What a terrific response as people cleaned out, threw out, and got rid of clutter to lighten their loads and fill up on God’s goodness. It was fun to watch the progress on the bulletin board as stickers were placed on bags indicating another bag was filled. Well done, faithful servants! Happy to be clutter free!

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FAITH COMMUNITY NURSE NEWS

Advance DirectivesWhen you are terminally ill and can’t speak for yourself, your health care providers may be

unclear as to what type of medical care you would prefer. Your family members may be uncertain or disagree about the type of medical care you should receive. An advance care directive is a legal document that tells your health care providers what care you agree to in advance of this type of situation. With this document, you can tell your providers what medical treatment you do not want to have and what treatment you want when you are not able to express your wishes. Writing an advance directive may be hard. You need to:

Know and understand your treatment options.

Decide future treatment options you may want.

Discuss your choices with your family.

A living will explains the care you do or do not want. In it, you can state your wishes about receiving:

CPR (if your breathing stops or your heart stops beating)

Feedings through a tube into a vein (IV) or into your stomach

Extended care on a breathing machine

Tests, medicines, or surgeries Blood transfusions

You should also know that: A living will is not the same as a

last will and testament after a person's death.

You are not able to name someone to make health care decisions for you in a living will.

Durable power of attorney for health care is a legal document that allows you to name someone else to make health care decisions for you when you cannot. It does not give power to anyone to make legal or financial decisions for you.

A do-not-resuscitate order (DNR) is a document that tells health care providers not to do CPR if your breathing stops or your heart stops beating. Your provider talks to you, the proxy, or family about this choice. The provider writes the order on your medical chart.Write your living will or health care power of attorney according to your state's laws.

Give copies to your family members, providers, and health care agent.

Carry a copy with you in your wallet or the glove compartment of your car.

Take a copy with you if you are in a hospital. Tell all medical staff involved in your care about these documents.

You can change your decisions at any time. Be sure to tell everyone involved about the change.

Reference: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000472.htm

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVEThanks to everyone who donated food, their time and blood for a successful blood drive in March.  We collected 28 units as compared to 21 last year.

 

MEN OF OPEQUON THIS MONTH FOR ALL!

Following an excellent conversation last month with

Sheriff Lenny Millholland of Frederick County, we invite everyone, men and women, to join us this month!! We look forward to welcoming Kes (Rev.) Tariku

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“MOO”

Tolessa, President of the Illubabor Bethel Synod of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus as our special guest on Monday, May 8th. Tariku has visited with us before and it is truly a blessing to have him join us again. We’ll still gather at the Pleasant Valley Road Chick-fil-A at 6:00 pm and return to the Bageant Room of the church for our 7:00 pm gathering. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to hear our guest.

COME TO OMBOpequon Men’s Breakfast

Every Friday morning at 9:00 am, we get together for fellowship, coffee and breakfast at the Pleasant Valley Chick-fil-A. Don’t eat chicken for breakfast? That’s okay (although, you really don’t know what you’re missing). You can order eggs, sausage & eggs, bacon & eggs, etc. Or, if you don’t want to eat, you can just get coffee, juice, water, or nothing.The most important thing is to come and enjoy conversation around tables, with fellow Christian men. We never cancel, except when the restaurant is closed. Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail can deter us from gathering. We have no organization, no agenda, and no future plans; just a desire to fellowship and get to better know each other. Reservations are not needed-just show up. Come one; come all, whenever you can. See you Friday! Have questions? Ask Dick Crane, Mac McNichols, Keith McMurdo, Graham Taylor, or Dan Cammer.

GOD-LOVING OPEQUON WOMENOpequon’s Women’s group meets the second Tuesday each month, enjoying friendship during a relaxed time

together. Recently some OPC women expressed the value of why we have GLOW: “We are connecting with each other across generations.”, “There’s no heavy agenda but always a worthwhile purpose.”, “Every month is different and the door is always open to all OPC women.”, “The time together brings much laughter and we leave feeling lighter!” This month women will gather on Tuesday, May 9, 7:00 pm in the Bageant Room. After an opening devotion time, we will join efforts to do some special “spring cleaning” projects around the church building. Prizes will be awarded periodically throughout the evening. None of our work will be too strenuous, but all of it will certainly make a difference. All ages of women are invited. The time spent at GLOW is sure to lift your spirits and put a smile on your face.

PRESBYTERIAN YOUTH CONNECTION

In our community, May is a busy month with Apple Blossom, Mothers’ Day, and Memorial Day weekend. So, our youth will gather just one time this month, on Sunday, May 21st at the picnic shelter for a “Closing Extravaganza” at 5:00 pm. This is an event for the whole family, so bring your parents and your siblings and a covered-dish to share with others. We will enjoy some terrific activities and think forward about future happenings. All youth in Middle School are encouraged to sign-up for Vacation Bible School, June 11-15, 4:30-7:30 pm. There will be a special and unique tract just for you!All youth in High School are encouraged to volunteer to help staff Vacation Bible School. We need you! There will be lots of ways to serve!

Coming This August:

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Summer Midnight Gladness – That’s right! We’ll be enjoying another Midnight Gladness event, this one during the summer, as we shop for school supplies for children in need.

HIGHLAND FOOD PANTRY OPPORTUNITIES

OPC helps staff the Highland Food Pantry on the 4th Tuesday of each month, from 6:00-8:30 pm. The process is well-organized, so volunteers fit in quickly to make a positive impact fighting hunger in our community. In March, seven OPC people served in a variety of roles and we're hoping to grow that number. If you

are interested, contact ruthanddave.richards@gmail.com or 540-858-2889 for more information.

On Saturday, May 13, the US Postal Service will sponsor a food drive that will benefit Highland Food Pantry. Last year, USPS collected over 15,000 lbs. of food. This year, volunteers are needed to unload, weigh, sort into boxes, or stack food for storage. This will be an all-day activity, but you can volunteer for as little as an hour. You will be welcomed any time, but we are trying to schedule people so no one is overburdened. Contact ruthanddave.richards@gmail.com or 540-858-2889. Not ready to volunteer right now, but want to be on our email list? You know how to reach us!

COMMUNITY GARDENHi! I just wanted to reach out and introduce myself…I’m Tammy Batcha. I live in Middletown with my husband Tom and kitty cat, Albert. I met Joelle Cafaro through a series of networking events and learned about Opequon’s Community Garden at Hedgebrook Farm. Food, particularly local food, is a passion of mine and so I offered to help in any way I could. It turned out you needed a garden manager and so I’ve gladly accepted that role to help you within the congregation with this most important project. I look forward to working with you and hopefully meeting you too at some point in the future. My contact info is:

Make it delicious!Tammy Batcha

ReShapeYourPlate.comtammybatcha@gmail.com , 540-550-1971

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

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ASCENSION SUNDAYRemember and honor those who have

served and gone before us! Sunday, May 28th – 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Special Recognition Music

ABUG TRAINING IN JUNEAre you A BUG Now?

Would you like to be A BUG?There will be mandatory

training for everyone who fulfills the role of Acolyte, Beadle, Usher

or Greeter onSunday, June 11 @ 9:45 a.m.—

SanctuaryIf you are interested in learning more about serving as an Acolyte, Beadle, Usher or Greeter, you are cordially invited to join us! Training will be led by the Worship Ministry Team & Pastor David

Brian Dove2110 Rosewood AveRichmond VA 23220

Dick & Sandy Widell6201 Lookout Point Circle

Midlothian, VA 23112

We express our Christian love and sympathy to…

Gary Kain upon the death of his mother,

Barbara Kain on April 2June Windle & Nathan Windle upon the death of her daughter and his sister, Dorothy Rogers, on April 20“I am the resurrection and the life,” says the Lord. “Those who believe in me shall live, even though they die; and those who live and believe

in me shall never die.” John 11:24-25

NOTES OF GRATITUDEWe are deeply grateful for the many prayers, cards, and kind words of sympathy expressed by so many of you during Mom’s recent passing. The food we received was truly a blessing and made hosting so many visiting family members a much easier task. Once again, thank you all for being such a supportive, loving church family.

John & Peggy Hess on behalf of the family of Nancy Lewis

David & the OPC Family,Thank you for the kindness that has been shown to me during my recovery from my accident. Whether that has been emails, notes, calls, prayers or food it has been an important part of my recovery. I think I am over the hump and life will return to somewhat normal. Again, thank you!

My best with love,Mike Butler

Dear Church Family,Thank you for your calls, cards and prayers during my recent illness.

Kail Barbe

To My Opequon Presbyterian Family,Your love has poured out in so many ways during Arthur’s declining health and his death. You were there with faithful prayers, hugs, cards, visits, emails, Tuesday Morning Mission lunches and especially the beautiful and delicious reception following the Celebration of Life service on March 11th. All of these acts of love and concern are remembered and appreciated by me and also by Arthur’s children and our extended family. You, my friends, were always there when we needed your prayers and your acts of loving kindness. “Thank you” seems like two small words;

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RememberOPC

inYour Will

however, they are sincere. I am so glad God led us to Opequon Presbyterian Church.

Martha Fulton

7 Eric & Mandy Estep14 Robert & Patience Sydnor16 Jayson & Kalley Bormann,

Marc & Rebekah DesMarais,Sparky & Sara Gomez

20 Chris & Melissa Moses,Dave & Ruth Richards

21 Jeff & Sherry Schryver,John & Pam Stevens

24 Bill & Debbie Bender25 Clayton & Terry Hartman26 Kraig & Brenda Hawkins,

Mike & Christy Usa31 Ray & Karen Jones,

Tom & Rhoda Tandy

1 Olivia Shiley 2 Mike Butler 3 Myrt Nissen 4 David Joyner, Steve Rockwell 5 Jonny Lunsford

6 Terry Hartman, Les Veach 7 Joshua Brown, Kay Odei, Becky Proctor 9 Matt Sousa10 Annie Delamatta11 Joel Sherman12 Lydia Delamatta13 Harriet Smith14 Jan Donovan, Kitty Bird Nicholas15 Shep Campbell Jr16 Bill Bayliss, Suzi White18 Anne Carter, Hannah Wright19 Vicky Astorino, Helen Schieve20 Alex Plumb21 Evan Nordeen22 Tom Tandy, Megan Triplett23 Erin Wilson24 Mike Crites. Andrew Frey, Marj Praml25 Graham Taylor26 Hank Agregaard, Claire Gaines, Alexis Weir27 Bill Bender29 Caleb Garcia, Leah O’Connell30 Dom Cafaro, Mo Mohler, Dave Sweeney31 Tracy Drumheller, Nicholas Leonard, Alan McKay

SERVANTS IN MINISTRY

Bell Ringers 8:30Mo Mohler11:00 Kristin Blake, Bailey Cooper,

AnnMarie Kelly

Hospitality8:30 7 Dom Cafaro, Brenda Hawkins14 Heide Mohler, Graham Taylor21 Lisa & Bill Frye28 Betty Chicklo, June Malone

11:00 7 Vicky Astorino, Nadine DeHaven14 Jack Drumheller, Betty Ganoe21 Debi Hodgson, Annemarie Matthews28 Gail & Dick Crane

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NametagsWeek 1 Pat deButts Week 2 Dulcie Reed Week 3 Dulcie Reed Week 4 Kail Barbe Week 5 Dulcie Reed

Ushers (Head Usher in bold) 8:30 7 Vicki Schmidt, Dulcie Reed, Graham Taylor14 Pat Heavner, Jim Youngblood21 Terry Hartman, Heide Mohler 28 Mike Butler, Sherry Schryver, John Winn11:00 7 Jim Butler, Annemarie Matthews,

Travis Morgan14 Jason Hathaway, Kyle Homan,

Bill Robinson21 Jason Brown, Andy Homan, Joel Witt28 Bill Hopeck

94TH ANNUAL BIBLE CONFERENCE& CHURCH MUSIC CONFERENCERemembering the Reformation!

July 23-29Join us at Massanetta Springs for the 93rd Annual Bible Conference and the Church Music Conference. For more information, go to massanettasprings.org.

ADULT VBS CLASS AT OPC

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TINKERING at the FACTORY!JOIN US FOR VBS 2017

June 11-15, 4:30-7:30 each day.We will be having all kinds of fun at the factory through tinkering at

the imagination station, creating some terrific sculptors at the building station, playing games, hearing great stories, and watching movie clips of everyday children doing great things. Dramatic events each night will help us see how GOD has made each of us for a great

purpose. VBS is open to 4 year olds through 8th grade. Special events are planned for a youth track: 5th-8th graders. Register THIS MONTH as June 4 is the registration deadline. Invite your friends

NOW! A Registration form and Volunteer form are both included in this newsletter. Fill yours out TODAY. (Return completed forms to C. Witt.)

NOTE for VBS STAFF: VBS Orientation is June 4, 12:30 pm.

Happiness: “We all look for it. Few find it. So, let’s talk about it!”We all dream of being happy. If we could just lose the extra weight, get the job, buy the house, we could truly be happy. But over time, it begins to seem as though lasting happiness is unattainable. Despite our best efforts, true happiness will never be a reality for us. So how do we find lasting happiness and contentment in our lives? Maybe the answer isn’t in our own lives at all. UMC Pastor Matt Miofsky connects the existential question, “Am I happy?”, with basic theology and unexpected biblical texts. Starting with the book of Ecclesiastes, considering if any "thing" can make us happy, he explores the value of relationships, a forgiving lifestyle, living in the present, feeling gratitude, and learning to release control.

June 11-15 (Sunday-Thursday) 6:30-7:30 pmPlease register at the “Factory Fun Shop” display

Great nightly class sessions facilitated by Pastor David Witt. Join this time of study and fellowship together.

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SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT

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March 2017

Net ExpensesNet

Expenses Budget BalanceEXPENSES 2017 Budget Current Month   Year to Date RemainingAdministrative Ministry 391,344 30,686 92,300 299,045Christian Education Ministry 13,850 1,143 79 13,771Congregational Care Ministry 1,400 0 103 1,297Evangelism Ministry 2,600 0 115 2,485Fellowship Ministry 3,000 253 708 2,292Mission Ministry 47,000 312 5,004 41,996Worship Ministry 5,800 1 968 4,832Capital Expenses 115,025 9,584   28,751 86,274

Total Budget 580,019 41,980   128,028 451,992           

           INCOME Current Month Year to DateEnvelope Offerings 68,212 137,948Loose 188 826

Total Operating Income from Offerings 68,400 138,775Adjustments to Income (YTD)  

Checking Account Interest   59Transfer from Building Fund   0Room/Facility Usage   500Wedding Fees   0

Operating Income After Adjustments   139,334

Expenses (YTD) 128,028

2017 Operating Balance as of March 31 11,306

HIKE WITH MIKE

If you enjoy the great outdoors, you will enjoy sharing it with like-minded church family members. Below you will find a tentative schedule of upcoming hikes. All events start at 8:30 am and end at the OPC parking lot. We will car pool and may need double carpooling on certain trips for return transportation to the trail start point. Please wear comfortable shoes with good ankle and arch support and bring water and snack/lunch, depending on the length of our outing. Please register by the Thursday before the hike, so we can have a count by contacting Mike Butler at mbutler57@outlook.com or 540.533.1239. In case of rain, we will decide the day of the hike and let people know by email and phone call the status of the hike.

Date Location Time - Estimated (OPC Lv. To Return) Difficulty

Saturday 05.27.2017 Dolly Sods 8 hours Moderate

Saturday 06.17.2017

Pinnacle Tuscarora Trail 5 hours Difficult

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Opequon Presbyterian Church217 Opequon Church LaneWinchester, VA 22602-2421RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

“The Opequon Spirit” is the monthly newsletter of:Opequon Presbyterian Church217 Opequon Church LaneWinchester, VA 22602-2421Phone: 540-662-1843www.opequonchurch.orgNewsletter deadline is the Wednesday after the Stated Session Meeting.Sunday Worship at 8:30 and 11:00 a.m.Sunday School for all ages at 9:45 a.m.David Witt--------------------------------------------------------PastorTracie Martin---------------------------------------Parish AssociateCarole Witt---------------------Director of Christian EducationCatherine Richard--------------------------Office AdministratorSusan Homan-------------------------------------Director of MusicWilliam Heavner---------------------------------------------OrganistRobert Sydnor--------------------------------------------------SextonPatty Klinefelter------------------------Faith Community NurseLaurie Carver----------------------------------Nursery Supervisor

JUNE WILL BE JUMPING!!

Sunday Worship – 8:30 & 11:00 amPentecost & Confirmation – Sunday, June 4th

MOO @ Winchester Royals – Monday, June 5th

Choir Recognition – Sunday, June 11th

“ABUG” Training – June 11th – 9:45 am (Acolyte, Beadle, Usher, Greeter)

Vacation Bible School – June 11-15Father’s Day – June 18th

“Picnic in the Garden” – Sunday, June 25

COMING NEXT MONTH: GET YOUR RED OUT!

PENTECOST SUNDAYCONFIRMATION SUNDAYJune 4th – 8:30 & 11:00 am

A Day to Celebrate the Holy Spirit!Pentecost Offering Received

Communion Celebrated19

NONPROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE

PAIDWINCHESTER VA

PERMIT 85

Inside This IssueIncludes VBS Registration Info

Anniversaries............................p.10Birthdays..................................p.11Calendar..................................p. 15Christian Education...................p. 5Congregational Care..................p. 7Fellowship.................................p. 7Just Thinkin’...............................p. 3Mission Ministry.........................p. 9Pastor’s Notes...........................p. 2PYC............................................p. 8Servants in Ministry..................p.11Session Highlights.....................p. 3Stewardship/Finance...............p. 14Worship.................................p. 1, 9

Remember to Wear Red!

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