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Courier
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The
Vol. 66,
Christian
No. 6
Courier The
Bellingham
Christian
FirstCourier
Christian The
Church
Christian Courier
June
The
2016
C

Summer Events to Enjoy

Welcome Summer Potluck
Sunday, June 5
Noon
Bring a dish to share and be ready to
welcome summer with great delight

Longest Day Worship

Monday, June 20
6 p.m.
A Summer Solstice service celebrating the
return of the sunshine and thanking God for
the good gifts of the growing seasons.

Summer Schedule Begins

Sunday, June 5
10:20 a.m.

Gathering Time (Music & Announcements)

10:50 a.m.

Worship and Graduate Recognition

Sarah Hulbert, Sehome High School
Margaret Browns granddaughter)
Fellowship Time

11:45 a.m.

On hiatus until after Labor Day: Sunday School, Tuesday

Bible Study, Wild Goose, Bell Choir, Chancel Choir, Pub
Theology; Checking in Group will meet in June and take a
break July and August

A Message About Our Fair Trade Shop

I'm neither a judge nor a lawyer, but
justice matters to me. I hope you will
agree with me that women and men
deserve fair wages for the work they do.
In an effort to bring wage justice to
workers harvesting cocoa beans, coffee
beans and tea leaves, Equal Exchange
offers a variety of coffee, tea, chocolate bars and baking
cocoa at a price that offers laborers in other nations fair
wages. Chuck and Darlene Page's remodeled cabinet holds
products that you are encouraged to purchase before or after
worship. Consider your purchase of these items your
contribution to more justice in God's world.
~ Bruce Radtke

Bellingham Pride
Sunday, July 10
11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Welcome members of the community to our
table at this annual festival, sharing the good
news that God loves EVERYONE!

Spaghetti and Bingo Fun Day!

Sunday, July 24
Noon
Come buy a plate of spaghetti and other
goodies and play a round or two of bingo, all
in support of the kids and family areas in our
church. (Funds will help purchase much
needed supplies for the nursery, sanctuary,
and fellowship hall.

Jesus Has Left the Building

Sunday, July 31
10:20 a.m.
Come for worship, then disperse into the
community and around the building to do
Gods work, loving Gods people.
Church in the Park & All Church Picnic
Sunday, August 7
10:30 a.m.
Bring food to share and be ready for a day of
fun, as we worship in a local park and then
break bread together.

Shoes News

First Christian Church

(Disciples of Christ)

Shoes News
Good Connections

495 East Bakerview Road

Bellingham, WA 98226
360.734.6820
office@bellinghamdisciples.org
www.bellinghamdisciples.org
Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

A movement for wholeness in a fragmented
world. As part of the one body of Christ, we
welcome all to the Lords Table as God
welcomed us.
All of Us
Ministers
Rev. Gary Shoemaker
Pastor
gary@bellinghamdisciples.org
Rev. Tamalyn Kralman
Director of Ed. & Community Outreach
Courier Editor
tamalyn@bellinghamdisciples.org
Amelia Nye
Accompanist
Katie Ramstead
Childcare Provider
Rev. Sandy Messick
Regional Minister
Rev. Sharon Watkins
General Minister and President

Sunday Schedule
10:50 a.m.
11 a.m.
12:15 p.m.
12:30 p.m.
2 p.m.

Office Hours

Gathering Time
Worship
Fellowship Time
Out-to-Lunch Bunch
(4th Sunday)
Someone Cares! Community Meal
(2nd Sunday)

Monday - Friday
9 a.m. - noon
Our staff are in and out of the office throughout the
week. Please feel free to stop by during their office
hours or make an appointment that fits your
schedule.

Officers
Renee Hoemann, Moderator
Cheryl Perry, Treasurer

This coming weekend Bob, Linda, Tamalyn and I will be

attending the Regional Assembly in Clarkston. It's a reminder
that we're not alone in our work here at First Christian Church
(Disciples of Christ) Bellingham. We are a part of a network of
organizations (that sounds too formal) that we are in covenant
with to support and from which we receive support. The Region
of our church is one of those organizations (again, that sounds
too formal). We could not do what we are able to do as a
congregation without these partners (that's better). And they
could not do what they are able to do without partnerships with
local congregations.
When we need training for ongoing programs or updates to our
clergy requirements, the Region is there. They have offered
training on stewardship, anti-racism, eldership, proper clergy
boundary behavior and how to be the moderator of the
congregation. I know that I'm forgetting some other recent
offerings. They organize the summer camping program as well
as mid-winter retreats. They assist us when we are in need of
an interim minister or a settle pastor. I know that we couldn't do
what we do without them.
I've been using the word 'they' as I talk about the Region.
That's incorrect, the word is 'we'. The Region is simply the
collective efforts of each of the congregations and members in
this area. We basically govern ourselves and determine how
best to minister and carry out the work of Jesus at that larger
level. One of the unique attributes of the Christian Church
(Disciples of Christ) is that there is really no hierarchy that
controls the local congregation. We are independent and have
the ability to make our own decisions. Our relationship with the
Region is purely a covenant relationship. We agree to support
one another. They look to us for financial support as well as
offering people to do the work of the Region.
That sounds very clinical, so instead, the bottom line is that we
are family. We have our local family, and we have our wider
family. We choose to stay together and work together because
that way our local church can touch people across the world
with missionaries, relief efforts, food and love. The Region and
the General Church are simply extended family that have the
resources to take the work of Jesus from our doorstep to the
world.
We'll take your greetings to the larger family this coming
weekend.
Pastor Gary
[Editors note: article written a week prior to the Regional Assembly,
which took place May 20-22]

June 2016

Nurses Notes

Are You Missing?

Osteoporosis: A Health Concern for Young and Old

Nurses Notes

Osteoporosis, or bone loss, begins early in life, usually in late 20's and early 30's. About 10
million Americans have osteoporosis, with 18 million more at risk. Another 34 million are at
risk for developing osteopenia, or low bone mass. Osteoporosis can lead to fractures and
other complications.

Risk factors for osteoporosis include being 65 years or older, smoking, consistent alcohol
consumption of more than two drinks per day, low calcium intake, certain medications such
as corticosteroids, low body weight (less than 132 pounds), low testosterone levels in men,
early menopause (before age 45), celiac disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Making lifestyle changes can improve bone health mainly by reducing risk factors (reduce alcohol consumption, stop
smoking, reduce sodium). Increasing physical activity, especially weight bearing exercises, stimulates the building of
new bone. Consumption of vitamin D, fruits, vegetables, dietary calcium can also aide bone health.
Calcium is the building block of new bone and vitamin D helps retain the calcium. As beneficial as these elements are, it
is possible to get too much calcium. Too much calcium has been linked to several side effects, including heart
problems. Your health care professional should prescribe a dose for your individual needs. The recommendations for
adults between 19 years to 50 years is 1000 mg of calcium and 400 to 1000 IU of vitamin D. Older adults (over 50)
should take 1200 mg of calcium and 800-2000 IU of vitamin D.
Those who already have osteoporosis should continue to take the recommended dose of calcium and vitamin D.
Although they may not stop bone loss, they do help rebuild bone in conjunction with prescription medications (Evista,
Calcitonin, Fosamax) that can halt bone deterioration. These medications must be taken over a number of years for
bone restoration.
For information specific to your needs, always check with your physician, who will order necessary screenings and
prescribe the medications and exercises to help maximize your bone health.
Meditation: Dear Lord, when I feel broken, when my spirit feels spent, when all feels dark, enfold me with your Sacred
Presence so as to bring me to health both in body and mind; that I might see the Light of hope. Amen.
Jane Kletka,RN FCN
Health Ministries Network

Are You Missing?

Is your picture in the new church directory and on the bulletin board near the church office?
If not, let us snap a photo of you on an upcoming Sunday or send us a selfie. Dont be
among the missing!
Our MIAs are listed below (Please note that we cannot publish copyrighted photos in the
new directory.):

Allan and Linda Botts

Cris Botts
Margaret and Lee Brown
Bob Dawes
Wayne Deming
Laurie and Thang Do
Betty & Marlin Erickson
David & Donna Fairchild
Doug Farrar
Diana Findley
Bob Fisher & John Bisceglia
Frances Forhan
Janet Franks
Jim Franks
Chloe Gibson
Bob and Karen Gilda

June 2016

Bea and Ralph Gilfilen

Sandy Grant
Virginia Haldeman
Don and Melody Hoffman
Bobbie Kiep
Warren King (family pic, please)
Nathan Klemann
Marceille Kobel
Cyndy Koehn
Velma McDonald
Pat McGovern
Bill & Phyllis McKinnon
Suzy Merrick
Matt and Janel Nelson
Marian Overcash
Arlene and Cliff Peightal

Cheryl and Max Perry

Bill and Virginia Pribilsky
Bruce Radtke
Brenda and John Riseland
Allison Ronney and family
Bill and Debbie Ruther
Betty Schmidling
Gaylen and Terry Udo
Paul and Frances Van Dyke
Bekki and Russ Weston
Blair Whitney
Pat Whitney
Joyce and Harmon Woodworth

Whos on First?!

Joys and Concerns

Celebrate!

June
Sunday, June 5
Elders: Don Hoffman (O), Joe Plancich (C)
Lock-Up: Kelvin Smith
In Home Communion: Margaret Brown
Brenda Riseland
Deacons: Kathy Wheeler, Lynn Plancich
Reader: James Becker
Greeter: Jane Kletka
Flowers: TBD
Fellowship Time: TBD
Sunday, June 12
Elders: Leslie Pinkston (O), Margaret Brown (C)
Deacons: Renee Hoemann, James Becker
Reader: Don Hoffman
Greeters: Lois Oswalt
Flowers: TBD
Fellowship Time: Connie Page
Sunday, June 19
Elders: Kelvin Smith (O), Melody Hoffman (C)
Deacons: Ardythe Hannah, Connie Page,
Linda Heyne
Reader: Gregg Heyne
Greeter:Bekki & Russ Weston
Flowers: TBD
Fellowship Time: TBD
Sunday, June 26
Elders: John Riseland (O), Gregg Heyne (C)
Deacons: Lois Oswalt, Alexis Pinkston
Reader: Melody Hoffman
Greeters: Connie Page
Flowers: Esther Group
Fellowship Time: Esther Group
Please sign up in the Fellowship Hall to
participate in these important ministries
Reader: Read the scripture during worship
Greeter: Welcome people as they arrive at the
church on Sunday morning
Flowers: Bring flowers for the sanctuary for
Sunday worship
Fellowship Time: Bring goodies for folks to
share after worship

Happy Birthday
Paul Van Dyke
Virginia Haldeman
James Becker
Jim Blaney
Briella Rose Stanbro
Connie Page
Alexis Pinkston

1
5
8
9
10
12
13

Gregg Heyne
Helen Blaney

15
30

Happy Anniversary
Linda & Allan Botts
Judy & Walter Bayless

15
19

Joys and Concerns

Please submit written requests
to update this list.
New to Our List:
Jane Kletka, recovery from yet another surgery (Ick! Sorry,
Jane. We love you.)
Harmon Woodworth, recovering from surgery
Matt Nelson, (Betty & Marlin Ericksons grandson)
recovering from foot surgery
Betty & Marlins son, Steve Erickson, upcoming open
heart surgery
Leslie Pinkstons brothers, Stan and Marvin Streubel,
recovering from severe injuries sustained in a fall
Bob Fishers brother Allen, health issues
The wildfires that are already sweeping across Canada
and the United States, and all who are caught in their path
Mary Ann Teeters, recovery from surgery and follow-up
treatment
Ongoing:
Donna Fairchild, health concerns
Bill Pribilsky, health concerns
Joanne Harrell, health concerns
Disciples House Residents, past, present and future
Iglesia de Dios, as together we share Gods love from this
space
Raices Culturales families in the gardening program in our
field
Kristine Tissinger, missionary partner in Ghana
Rev. Sandy Messick, Regional Minister
Rev. Sharon Watkins, General Minister and President
Our General Church ministries
Yakama Christian Mission
All Muslims, as anti-Muslim sentiment and threats increase
Victims of injustice, violence, poverty, disease, and
disaster worldwide
All troops involved in world conflict
Peacemakers worldwide

June 2016

June calendar

Sunday
Sunday

Monday
Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday
Wednesday Thursday
Thursday
1

Summer Schedule Begins

Sunday, June 5!
5

12

10:20a Gathering Time

10:30a Worship
11:45a Fellowship Time
2p
Someone Cares
Community Meal
& Josephs Closet

19

Happy Fathers Day!

7:30a Elders Meeting
9:30a Sunday Fun Day
10:20a Gathering Time
10:30a Worship
11:45a Fellowship Time
26

10:20a Gathering Time

10:30a Worship
11:45a Fellowship Time
12:00 p Out-to-Lunch
Bunch
7p
Book Group

Noon
Bible Study
5:30 p
Spanish
Class, Rm 2

13

6:30 p
Stewardship
Meeting

11:30 a.m.
Esther Group
6 p.m.
Longest Day
Worship
27

10

11

7:30a Mens
Breakfast,
Dennys

15

16

17

Bulletin
deadline

18

7:30a Mens
Breakfast,
Dennys

Courier
Deadline

5:30 p.m .
Prayer Vigil
for Peace in
the Middle
East, location
TBD
22

23

Bulletin
deadline
5p Checking
in Group

28

Noon
Bible Study
5:30 p
Spanish
Class, Rm 2

Bulletin
deadline

21

Noon
Bible Study
5:30 p
Spanish
Class, Rm 2

4
7:30a Mens
Breakfast,
Dennys

14

Noon
Bible Study
5:30 p
Spanish
Class, Rm 2

20

Saturday

Bulletin
deadline

10:20a Gathering Time

10:30a Worship
11:45a Fellowship Time
Noon Welcome to
Summer Potluck

Friday
Friday

29

24

25

7:30a Mens
Breakfast,
Dennys

30

Bulletin
deadline

Summer is not obligatory. We can start an infernally hard jigsaw puzzle in June with the knowledge that, if there are
enough rainy days, we may just finish it by Labor Day, but if not, there's no harm, no penalty. We may have better
things to do.
Nancy Reid Gibbs, American essayist and managing editor for Time magazine

June 2016

First Christian Church

(Disciples of Christ)
A church of grace and welcome for all!
495 East Bakerview Road
Bellingham, WA 98226-9168

PERIODICALS POSTAGE AT
USPS 0589-870

The Christian Courier (USPS

0589-870) is published monthly at
First Christian Church, 495 East
Bakerview Road, Bellingham, WA
98226-9168. PERIODICALS
POSTAGE paid at Bellingham, WA
98226-9997

Postmaster: Send address changes

to The Christian Courier, 495 East
Bakerview Road, Bellingham, WA
98226-9186

Do You Remember Being a Kid in Church?

Shh! Youre too loud. Stop wiggling. Youre distracting everyone.
Dont run in church. This is Gods house. The take away for too
many kids is this: God and church people don't care much for kids.
Ah, yes. Thats pretty much what I thought as a youngster. Jesus
loves me, this I know, but God and everyone else? Thats debatable.
Then, as weve seen, as they get older, these kids are no where to be
seen. Its bye-bye God and all things organized religion. Bye-bye
church family.
I invite you to take a look around the church and see how we are
working to create welcoming spaces for our little ones and their families. Then, think about what you might do to help
their parents welcome them into Gods sacred space in sacred, loving, welcoming ways, that still allow them to be
kids. The way God made them.
Let the little wiggly, squiggly children come unto all of us, that we might all be covered in love and soggy kisses,
Tamalyn

Read the Regional Newsletter

Click here to read the current issue of
Northwest Passages, the
newsletter of the Northwest
Regional Christian Church (Disciples of
Christ).

Courier Submissions are Due June 15

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Bakerview Road, Bellingham, WA 98226, or
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