EMMAUS MORAVIAN CHURCH
146 Main Street, Emmaus, Pa. 18049
Phone 610-965-6067; Fax 610-966-5420 www.emmausmoravian.org
Office hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8am-3pm; Tuesday and Thursday 2:30-5:00
Rev. Brian Dixon ~ Pastor ~ pastor@emmausmoravian.org
Charlie McDonald ~ Student Pastor ~ studentpastor@emmausmoravian.org Melissa Heckman ~ Secretary ~ secretary@emmausmoravian.org Martha Cox Popichak ~ Director of Music ~ popicox@rcn.com Christopher Klump ~ Director of Brass Choir
Al Kneller ~ Sexton
Special Envelope for February
Emmaus Moravian Community Assistance Fund- This fund is designated to help members of the church and community in times of need. Funds are used at the discretion of the pastor and office staff. In the past it has helped single people, families and community members facing financial difficulty due to job loss, medical issues and other life changing events. We have provided rent assistance, gift cards for groceries and we always have food on hand to help those who need immediate assistance.
2021 Watchword
Yet I planted you as a choice vine, from the purest stock. How then did you turn degenerate and become a wild vine? Jeremiah 2:21
Emmaus Moravian Church’s Mission Statement:
Living in Fellowship, Growing in Christ!
The Moravian Motto:
In essentials unity; in non essentials liberty;
A Message from Pastor Brian Watchwords & Watching Where We Walk
Daily texts and watchwords are traditions by which we believe God offers both encouragement and admonition. Through them, the Scriptures comfort and give us peace even as they call us to change and grow. If you haven’t already heard, our 2021 Watchword (drawn January 3rd) is Jeremiah 2:21.
“Yet it was I who planted you, a precious vine of fine quality; how could you turn into a wild vine and become good for nothing?”
I believe we derive the greatest benefit from Watchwords through careful study and continual reflection on the selected verses. Asking: What is the context of the verse within the passage? Who is speaking here, and to whom? And, when and why? With a little effort on our part, our understanding of the Watchword and sense of God’s message to us today undoubtedly deepens. As Jesus said, “let whoever has ears to hear…”
With that in mind, the book of Jeremiah will be a special focus for 2021. Through sermons, studies, and services we hope to learn more about Jeremiah the prophet, the Scriptures bearing his name, and the word of the Lord that Jeremiah was commissioned by God to deliver.
Standing at these deep waters, we keep good company.
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was drawn to (and drew from) Jeremiah, believing it to be the most fascinating study in OT history. He wrote, “There is no other of the sacred authors who has taken us with such intimacy into his life, both public and private… His life and character are full of surprises which stimulate thought on great moral and religious problems.” Another notable student of Jeremiah was the Polish-born American rabbi and theologian Abraham Heschel. His book The Prophets makes clear that the prophet is neither just, “a messenger, an oracle, a seer, nor an ecstatic, but a witness to the divine pathos, one who bears testimony to God’s concern for human beings.” It is no coincidence that these leaders in the struggle for civil rights would both trace a path from the pages of Jeremiah.
Our own dear bishop Comenius (1592 – 1670) worked tirelessly to reform the institution and philosophy of education, looking to the fulfillment of Jeremiah 31:34: “They will no longer need to teach each other to say, ‘Know the Lord!’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest…” One may even see similarities between the life of Comenius and Jeremiah in the terrible backdrop of war, persecution and exile, personal loss, and indefatigable hope. In many of the same respects, we may also recognize the life and times of the Apostle Paul and Christ himself.
At the heart of Jeremiah’s word is God’s promise to sustain in us (or us in) hope. “I will put my Instructions within them and engrave them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my
people.” (31:33) Jeremiah can be a challenging read and a difficult message for us to hear. It certainly would have been to the people of Judah living then through some of the most dramatic and devastating upheavals of their history. But in Heschel’s estimation, Jeremiah not only saw God’s outrage at our pervasive injustice and persistent iniquity. Jeremiah was also certain that God’s loving attachment and faithful power to raise and renew us surpassed it. Thanks be to God!
With a glad and grateful heart, ~Pastor Brian
January Worship Schedule
All services are via Zoom;
There will be no in person worship until further notice.
Sunday, February 7th ~ 9:30 Coffee Time, 10:00 Worship; 11:00 Church Council Sunday, February 14th ~ 9:30 Coffee Time, 10:00 Worship Wednesday, February 17th ~ Ash Wednesday Service 7:00 via zoom Sunday, February 21st ~ First Sunday in Lent ~ 9:30 Coffee Time, 10:00 Worship Sunday, February 28th ~ 9:30 Coffee Time, 10:00 Worship
Ash Wednesday and Lent are times for somber reflection on our mortality and need for reconciliation. These holy days date back to the 2nd Century. They mirror the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness (Matt 4:1-10, Mark 1:9-13, and Luke 4:1-13). This season for Christians may be lik- ened to Passover or the Jewish Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), and Ramadan (the month of fast- ing, prayer, and reflection observed by Muslims). Just as Advent frames the hope and expectation of a Savior before Christmas; Ash Wednesday, Lent, and Holy Week (Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Great Sabbath) prepare us for the great sorrow and greater joy of Christ’s death and res- urrection. We don’t know yet how we will be able to celebrate Holy Week and Easter (April 4th) this year, but we are confident that if our aim is to “lift high the cross” and share the enduring and undy- ing love of God in Christ Jesus that the Spirit will – just as promised – guide and help us.
Join us Feb. 17 (Ash Wed) 7 p.m. on Zoom as we continue the sacred journey of these holy days!
If you need help accessing zoom, please reach out to the office. If you have internet, but no way to access zoom, we have a few tablets available to borrow. The link to all of the zoom meetings and worship services is: https://zoom.us/j/4429489211
Go to www.zoom.us, go to “join a meeting” and enter code 4429489211
If you don’t feel comfortable joining by internet, and would prefer to listen in by phone, simply call this number: 1- 646 -876- 9923, and enter meeting ID: 4429489211, followed by the # key twice. You are also invited to join Morning Prayer; Mon – Fri at 8:15 a.m. (same log in info as above)
Eventually we will be able to worship in person and without restrictions. We will be grateful when that time is here. Until then, our goal is to provide a meaningful worship experience while keeping everyone safe. All of our services will be available on line live through zoom or afterwards via facebook. If you are in need of prayer or desire a conversation with Pastor Brian, please call the office. Thank you for allowing Emmaus Moravian Church to be your church!
With Christian Hope and Sympathy
On January 11th, Catherine Rohrbach entered the more immediate presence of her Lord and Savior. Please keep her family in your prayers.
Dear Emmaus Moravian Family,
Please remember those in need of our prayers:
The family of Kris Snyder (June Haberstumpf’s daughter & Linda Rohrbach’s niece), Gary Oplinger (Meda Henry’s brother in law), Bill Leibensperger, Kathleen Reiser, Kenny Flexer, Michael Henry, Martha Cox-Popichak,
Nancy Repp, Ron Hertzog, Rev. Diane Joseph, Karl Lutz,
Amy & Kevin Kelly (daughter and son in law of Ken and Karen Flexer) Donna & Jim Leffler (daughter & son in law of Ron & Bette Hertzog) our homebound members, nursing home and assisted living facility residents, all essential workers on the front lines of this pandemic and those personally affected by the COVID-19 virus. Please uphold these church members and friends in your prayers.
Contact the office whenever a visit is needed or to inform us of any situation, or a family member is hospitalized.
I want to thank everyone for their kind words and prayers for the passing of my brother, Malcolm. It was particularly hard because of Covid that I could not travel to see him in Washington State. He, however, is now free of terrible pain. I’m glad I get to remember him in better times. Elizabeth DalMaso
Dear Emmaus Moravian Church,
I would like to extend a sincere “thank you” for the flowers that I received from the church. They really brightened my day! God Bless all of you. Suzanne Mutchler
Flower Sponsorships
Below are the acknowledgements for flower sponsors:
February 7th ~ In loving memory of Shirley Reith and Marge Gruber by Franklin Reith, Sr.
February 14th ~ In loving memory of Dawn Harman Corbett by Jeanne & Andy Harakal ; and in loving memory of Janice W. Carper by the Semet Family
February 21st ~ In loving memory of Lucille Costello by her grandchildren February 28th ~ In loving memory of parents, Bob & Alberta Robbins by Carolyn Carter
Blessing Box
Our blessing box is located on the side porch of the church office and it is used frequently. It is filled with non perishable food, toiletries and other necessities for those in need. The box is filled weekly (at least). Additional donations are kept in the office to replenish supplies as needed. The immediate needs of the blessing box are: ready to eat foods (anything that can be easily eaten for our homeless community), spaghettios, pasta sauce in cans (glass can freeze and shatter), canned tuna, toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant), gloves and hats. It is pre- ferred that you drop off your donations in the office or place them near the Blessing box in a box or bag. Extra donations will be shared with local food banks. Thank you for your continued support!
Staying Open to the Spirit
Come join us for a spiritual companion class exploring a variety of spiritual practices. There will be four scheduled classes, no limit to the number of attendees and no registration required. The class is free. The dates are Mondays Feb 8 & 22 and March 8 & 22, 2021 from 7-8:30pm. All classes are held on via zoom ID: 935 127 3815 & Passcode 663444. If you have questions, please feel free to contact Linda Unser @ 610-390-7771 or lugraphics@aol.com.
Operation Christmas
Child
EMC will once again participate in OCC in 2021. The need is even greater with the pandemic.
February is Dental Health Awareness month, so we will collect toothbrushes and dental floss. For now, please keep donations at home until further notice. I missed the January newsletter, but January would have been a toy collection. If your children got new toys for Christmas, maybe you cleaned out old toys. New or gently used toys will be accept- ed. Matchbox cars are popular, along with balls or any type of small doll or stuffed ani- mal is also appreciated. Please remember, donations are placed in shoeboxes, so smaller toys are best. Thank you for your donations. Feel free to contact me if you have any ques- tions or ideas. Diane Lint lintd@ptd.net
The EMC Book Club
Book club meets the second and fourth Mon- day of the month. First, to discuss the book of the month and second, for chatting. Everyone is welcome to join by calling Judy Williamson (610 791 1363) with your email info to be in- cluded in our meeting.
February 8th, Darling Rose Gold by Stephanie Worbel
March 8th, The Color of Bee Larkham’s Murder by Sarah Harris
April 12th, Paper Bracelet by Rachel English May 10th, Hope on the Inside by Marie Bostwick June 14th, Redfield Farm by Judy Redline Coopy
Opening for Head Teacher of the Preschool at Emmaus Moravian Church
EMC is seeking a Head Teacher for our well established preschool. This position is for 4 days a week; 6 hours a day and is perfect for a caring, trained teacher looking for an exciting, fulfilling opportunity.
Job Summary
The Head Teacher of Emmaus Moravian Church Preschool creates an environment of kindness and caring, appropriate with Christian values. We are looking for someone to create a curriculum for children ages 3-5 and to provide opportunities for the children to grow and learn utilizing a variety of educational, creative, and physical activities in a nurturing environment.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree preferred in Elementary Education or Early Childhood Education Experience in a school setting is required.
All necessary clearances must be current.
Excellent communication skills with children, parents and teachers a must! Commitment to the Statement of Purpose of the Emmaus Moravian Preschool:
To provide learning experiences for children in a safe, caring, and well supervised environment.
Terms of Employment:
School year runs from September through August.
Salary, PTO and other terms of employment to be established upon job offer.
We, at Emmaus Moravian Church are anxious to meet you and welcome you to our Preschool Family. Please email an updated resume to Melissa Heckman at secretary@emmausmoravian.org or
call 610-965-6067 for further inquiries. It is helpful if resumes are received by February 26th, 2021.
Preschool Registration
Preschool Registration for the 2020/2021 school year will be held on Tuesday, February 16th from 6:00-7:30pm. Arrive any time between 6 and 7:30 to tour the newly renovated preschool rooms and speak with the teachers. These programs are for children ages 3-5.
Maximum Class Size is 15 with one head teacher, and one asst. teacher for all classes.
Classes available: Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:00am-2:00pm
Pre registration for the Tuesday/Thursday program is required. The days are filled with learning, crafts, large motor skills and small motor skills. We learn about the calendar, the weather, letters, numbers, shapes and various themes throughout the year. Children pack a lunch (refrigerator available). This program runs from Sept. – June. A $50.00 deposit is required for registration. Tuition is paid in 10 monthly installments of $175.00. EMC members are offered a 15% discount. A 10% discount is offered to families having 2 children enrolled.
Mondays and/or Wednesdays 9:00am-2:00pm
This is a unique program because it allows families options. Tuition spaces are available or, you can also sing up on a weekly basis. Tuition children pay whether they are able to attend or not, but are guaranteed a spot. Children that sign up weekly only pay when they attend, but they are not guaranteed a spot every week. You can choose one or both days, and sign up sheets are available 4 weeks ahead of time. The program has the same educational level as the Tues/ Thurs. class. Children pack a lunch. The cost is $86.00 per month (for one day option) or 175.00 for 2 day option, or $25.00 per day. This program runs from Sept. to June.
Various classes are offered during the summer. All Summer classes are sign up only.
We reached out to a few members and asked them to answer some questions about their church and their experiences at EMC. I will share responses in upcoming newsletters.
This response is from Janet Feldman. She answered the question, “What led you to EMC”?
I came to EMC frustrated with my previous experience at another church which had been a lifelong religion. At the recommendation of a good friend, I started attending EMC. I was immediately impressed by the importance of the history, traditions, and music in the church, and how people interacted not only as church family itself, but also with the surrounding community. I started singing in the choir before I officially became a member. I was offered a variety of things to do, and there was support and guidance to do what I wanted, not just the, “please do this because we cannot get anyone to do it.”
When my son passed away, I was supported by church friends, and that was so comforting to me. I have found a lot of support and eagerness for people who want to keep things going even in the times that we are having now. Who knew we would not be able to gather for almost a year? The staff and volunteers from the church figured out how to make the church family stay connected through zoom worship and zoom meetings. Safety is first, but community is second. I have to admire the staff for the utilization of many resources and the committees for all trying to keep things going. The people who have prayer needs are held up to God, there is a committee to send cards and make phone calls to those who are homebound, and flowers are sponsored on Sundays and delivered weekly. The Joint boards still meet, and needs are still answered. There is a lot of community in the church, and that has kept us going through this pandemic, and we expect to still be going when the pandemic is officially over.
This is a real testament to the strength of the church and the people who belong to it. We will be here no matter how long this takes. I am glad that 21 years ago I chose EMC to be my church family. And, I hope to be here for another 21 great years, whatever happens in the world.
Cash Card Program Gift cards are still available for you to purchase to support the church! If you need gift cards at any of the stores or restaurants listed below, give us a try! Our inventory has over $8,000 in 50 different cards for everyday shopping or gift giving! We have access to hundreds more we can order for you and have them in a week. Contact Neill Dekker at pirsqd@verizon.net to order cards or stop by the office. Cash cards never expire.
Typically in stock: Amazon, Applebees, Arby’s, Barnes & Noble, Bath & Body Works, Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy, Buffalo Wild Wings, Cabelas, Carrabba’s, Cracker Barrel, CVS, Dicks Sporting Goods, Disney, Dunkin Donuts, Gap, Giant, Great Clips, Home Depot, Home Goods, Itunes, JCPen- ney, Joann Fabrics, Kohl’s, Lands End, Limited, L.L. Bean, Lowes, Macy’s, Olive Garden, Outback, Panera, Petsmart, Red Lobster, Red Robin, Ruby Tuesday, Starbucks, Staples, Subway, Taco Bell, Target, Texas Road House, Ulta, Under Armor, Walgreens, Walmart, Wawa, Weis, Wendy’s
Who and What:
A Hopeful Marathon
Raising funds for Camp Hope!
This fundraiser includes a series of walks and bible discussions with Charlie McDonald and Rev. Brian Dixon from Emmaus Moravian Church. They will take place around the Lehigh Valley and on Facebook Live. Each walk will increase in length and concern themes of Creation Care in both the Old and New Testaments. This fundraiser will end in a marathon walk from Camp Hope, NJ to Palmer Moravian Church in Easton, Pa.— 26.3 miles!
How you can help:
Tune in on EMC’s Facebook page for all 3 walks if you can, spread the word, and in the meantime, go check out EMC’s Facebook to find more info about how to pledge a dollar amount for every mile Student Pastor Charlie makes it in the marathon, with all proceeds going to Camp Hope.
When and Where:
1. Central Moravian to Nazareth Moravian Date: Saturday 3/13 @ Noon
Length: 10 miles
Text: Genesis 2:1-22
2. Central to Calvary to Emmaus
Date: Saturday 3/27 @ 10am
Length: 14 miles
Text: Exodus 23:10-13, Leviticus 18:26, 28, Numbers 35:33-34
3. Camp Hope to Palmer Moravian Date: Saturday 4/10 @ 8am Length: 26.3 miles
Text: Luke 12:1-34
Camp Hope is the year-round camp, conference and retreat center for the Eastern District of the Moravian Church. Camp Hope serves youth and adults of the Moravian Church and communities across the Northeast. Providing a space for individuals and groups to commune with God and one another since 1946, Camp has been vital to the development of so many people’s faith. Please consider pledging today!