Funeral Services for Kory Ambler

Visiting Hours: Monday (12/29), 3:00-8:00 PM, McDonald Funeral Homes (North Weymouth location), 40 Sea Street, North Weymouth, Massachusetts 02191

Funeral Service: Tuesday (12/30), 8:30 AM, McDonald Funeral Home
Funeral Mass: 9:30 AM, Sacred Heart Church, 55 Commercial Street, Weymouth, MA 02188

Obituary from McDonald-FuneralHomes.com:

Kory Baker Ambler died unexpectedly at his home in North Weymouth on Wednesday December 24, 2008. He was 28 years of age. Born in Quincy, he was raised and educated in Weymouth and had lived in Minnesota and California before moving back to Weymouth over a year ago. Kory worked in wine sales and had a passion for sports, food and fine wine.

Loving fiance’ of Jodi Newell and loving father of Corado Ambler of No. Weymouth. Beloved son of Teresa Pompeo Rioles married to Rick of Weymouth and Scott B. Ambler married to Pam also of Weymouth. Loving brother of Nicholas S. Ambler, Whitney Ambler, Anthony Rioles and Mia Rioles all of Weymouth. Beloved grandson of Robert B. and Gloria (Hanson) Ambler of Marco Island, FL and Eleanor Tangherlini Pompeo of Weymouth. Also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Funeral from the NORTH WEYMOUTH McDonald Funeral Home at 40 Sea St. (off Rte 3A at Bicknell) Tuesday at 8:30 AM. Funeral Mass to follow in the Sacred Heart Church, Weymouth Landing, at 9:30. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours Monday evening 3:00-8:00 PM. Interment Old North Cemetery, Weymouth Heights.

Donations in Kory’s memory may be made to Friends of the Homeless of the South Shore, 8 Driftway Rd, No. Weymouth, 02191.

Help Amidst Tragic News

For those still unaware, Kory Ambler tragically passed away yesterday. He leaves behind his loved one, Jodi Newell, and their one-year-old son, Corado. Jodi is also pregnant, due January 4th. With so many connected to the family, our community is deeply hurting. Support and prayer will be much needed in the coming weeks and months.

Betty Jean Goodwin sends the following call to you for help:

Hello,
Being a community, it is more than appropriate (and needed) to show our love and support to the Newell family as they work their way through this tragic death of Kory Ambler.

Please, first of all, keep them lifted in prayer that God would give them his peace, comfort and strength to carry them through.

And second, let's take them meals for the next couple weeks. There's no need of a schedule, just take the food to them as they will have extra family and friends coming.
If you have questions, please call me at 781-630-1965.
Love to you all,
Betty Jean

Christmas Eve Worship

On this evening before the season of Christmas begins, come and worship with us this evening.  We'll sing, reflect, and experience together the story of true light entering into a dark world.

North Street @ Your Street

You were promised a "worship package" this morning.   Take a few minutes to intentionally go through the following.  Pray the prayers, sit back and watch (or just listen to) the music, and read the sermon.  If you're with someone, do it together!  If you're alone, read the prayer and sermon out loud; you may hear it differently than if you read it silently.

Know that I have prayed for you, and that others are doing this this morning along with you.

Peace to you.


Opening Prayer

Gracious God,

We pray that though we are interspersed throughout the land this morning rather than together in the same room, may You keep us together in Christ.

I pray that as we pray for peace, You may grant that all of us may be strengthened in our inner being with power through Your Spirit.

I pray that Christ may dwell in our hearts through faith, as we are being rooted and grounded in love.

I pray that we may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth of the love of God that leads to peace.

I pray that we may come to know what it means for us to proclaim "peace on earth," as we look around us these Advent and Christmas seasons.

I pray that we may come to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that we may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Now to God who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Music (click on the link and turn up your speakers):

Scripture:  Luke 1:47-55

...and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,  for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant.
   Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;  for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
   and holy is his name.  His mercy is for those who fear him
   from generation to generation.  He has shown strength with his arm;
   he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.  He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
   and lifted up the lowly;  he has filled the hungry with good things,
   and sent the rich away empty.  He has helped his servant Israel,
   in remembrance of his mercy,  according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
   to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’


Music:

Scripture:  II Samuel 7:1-11, 16

Now when the king was settled in his house, and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him, the king said to the prophet Nathan, ‘See now, I am living in a house of cedar, but the ark of God stays in a tent.’ Nathan said to the king, ‘Go, do all that you have in mind; for the Lord is with you.’
 But that same night the word of the Lord came to Nathan: Go and tell my servant David: Thus says the Lord: Are you the one to build me a house to live in? I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up the people of Israel from Egypt to this day, but I have been moving about in a tent and a tabernacle. Wherever I have moved about among all the people of Israel, did I ever speak a word with any of the tribal leaders of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, saying, ‘Why have you not built me a house of cedar?’ Now therefore thus you shall say to my servant David: Thus says the Lord of hosts: I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep to be prince over my people Israel; and I have been with you wherever you went, and have cut off all your enemies from before you; and I will make for you a great name, like the name of the great ones of the earth. And I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, so that they may live in their own place, and be disturbed no more; and evildoers shall afflict them no more, as formerly, from the time that I appointed judges over my people Israel; and I will give you rest from all your enemies. Moreover, the Lord declares to you that the Lord will make you a house. Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure for ever before me; your throne shall be established for ever.
Sermon:


Music:
And as we head into the Christmas Season...

Doxology:  Romans 16:25-27
Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed, and through the prophetic writings is made known to all the Gentiles, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory for ever! Amen.

Go in peace.

Sunday, December 21

Someone forgot to tell the weather about all that we had planned for tomorrow, the Fourth Sunday of Advent!  (The kids were going to sing and lead us in an Advent reading and we had gathering to fellowship AKA potluck scheduled in addition to our normal gathering to worship.)  

As such, I've spoken with much of the church board, and each was concerned about the difficulty of travel tomorrow morning.  While I will be at the church building at 11:00 for anyone who will show up for prayer and scripture reading, the church board is encouraging you not to travel.

However, we can be the church anyway!  Look in your e-mail boxes early in the morning for a "worship package" with which you can worship right in front of your computer.

In the meantime, have fun shoveling, and use this nature-given sabbath well.

- Pastor Jeremy
Last Sunday we lit the second candle on our community Advent wreath, the candle of Love.  We're reminded that the love of God is a love that gives all, sacrifices everything, and thinks of the loved before the lover.
This coming Sunday, the third of Advent, we'll light the candle of joy.  

Year B Community Scripture Way (CSW)
How are you doing on the csw?  Did you want to sign up to receive it by e-mail?   Send a message to csw@northst.org to receive the daily readings by e-mail.  If you prefer using a reader, you can use the RSS feed for the daily readings here. 

North Street Caroling & Advent Party
This Saturday, December 13, 5:30 PM - Join us for our annual caroling and party!  We'll meet at the church building at 5:30 PM to head out by 6:00, returning for food and celebration after.  

Men's Breakfast & Fellowship 
Saturday, 12/20, 8:30 AM - All men are invited to enjoy Paul Goodwin's cooking in the Newell Gathering and stay after to help the Friends of the Homeless Christmas Shoppe with wrapping and organizing gifts.

Potluck 
Sunday, 12/21, after worship - Here's a note from Carol Newell:

Hello Everyone!
 
The Christmas Potluck is coming up in 11 days! It makes sense to get the sign up sheet out.  I will post one on the bulletin board in the Newell Gathering Room for Sunday but if you won't be there or would like to let me know what you'd like to bring I will update the list (e-mail).
 
That day will be special for all of us.  I understand the kids have something planned and I have something special planned for the kids.  So come and enjoy the friendship of each other!
 
Carol Newell

Christmas Eve Family Worship 
Wednesday, 12/24, 6:00 PM - If you're in town, would you plan on worshiping together as a family-community for Christmas Eve?  We'll worship for about an hour in traditional candle-lit fashion.  On the eve of our celebration of the incarnation, what better way to know God's light than to be together as his people?  

Finer Things Book Club
The book club is back in action on Sunday evening, 12/21.  The group will be discussing Dune, and as it's the last book on our list, come prepared with a suggestion for our next list.  Jason & Heidi Parker are hosting (click here for directions).

...on the calendar
As always, use our online calendar to stay informed.

North Street Currents


This is a full edition of the North Street Currents!  Be sure to take time to read it all and note an exciting announcement at the end.  
Last Sunday we lit the first candle on our community Advent wreath, the candle of Hope.  We're reminded of the hope that God has given us, the hope for the world that's come down in Christ already, and the hope of Christ's coming again.
This coming Sunday, the second of Advent, we'll light the candle of Love.  Love is a broad word these days.  As we continue to ask ourselves, "Are we ready for the coming of the Lord?" in this Advent season, we'll think about our understanding of love as followers of Christ.  Is it love to buy more and give more, or is the love of Christ within and through us something deeper, richer, and longer-lasting?  In preparation for worship on Sunday, would you watch this video?  (For those reading this in e-mail, click here to see the video.)



Year B Community Scripture Way (CSW)
On Christ the King Sunday, we were presented with our second annual Community Scripture Way.  If this is new to you, it's basically a scripture reading plan for our whole community, directing us in worship and study.  You can read more about it on our website here.  

We are challenging everyone who is a part of our community to use the CSW.  You'll find that it is less "aggressive" than last year's, and falls in line more directly with Sunday morning worship gathering readings and Wednesday evening corporate scripture study.

New this year is the option to have the daily readings sent to you by e-mail.   Send a message tocsw@northst.org to receive the daily readings.  If you prefer using a reader, you can use the RSS feed for the daily readings here.  The daily readings by e-mail will begin this coming Monday (12/8).

Advent & Christmas Gatherings and Activities
Church Building Decorating (Sunday, 12/7) - After worship on Sunday, everyone is invited to stay and help finish decorating the church building for the Advent and Christmas seasons.  Bring a couple of bucks and we'll get pizza to share.

ENC's 75th Annual Presentation of Handel's Messiah (Sunday, 12/7, 6:00 PM) - As every year for three quarters of a century now, Eastern Nazarene College will be presenting George Frederic Handel's Messiah.  Sunday night's performance will include a solo from our own Colleen Gaine.  (There is also a presentation on Saturday evening at 7:00 PM.)  Click the link for more information and directions.

North Street Caroling & Advent Party (Saturday, December 13, 5:30 PM) - Join us for our annual caroling and party!  We'll meet at the church building at 5:30 PM to head out by 6:00, returning for food and celebration after.  (We'll either be in the Newell Gathering Room or the parsonage depending on how Brayden Scott is doing after his surgery on Wednesday.)

Men's Breakfast & Fellowship (Saturday, 12/20, 8:30 AM) - All men are invited to enjoy Paul Goodwin's cooking in the Newell Gathering and stay after to help the Christmas Shoppe with wrapping and organizing gifts.

Potluck (Sunday, 12/21, after worship) - The theme is...Easter!  Just kidding.  What else?!?  (Christmas.)  

Christmas Eve Family Worship (Wednesday, 12/24, 6:00 PM) - If you're in town, would you plan on worshiping together as a family-community for Christmas Eve?  We'll worship for about an hour in traditional candle-lit fashion.  On the eve of our celebration of the incarnation, what better way to know God's light than to be together as his people?  

HHRLA Hot Topics: Faith & Money
The next bi-monthly Hot Topics panel discussion presented by the Hingham & Hull Religous Leaders Association is Sunday and we're hosting!  If you're not going to watch ENC's presentation of Messiah, plan on coming to this discussion, which is one that will feature different faith responses to money and the current economic status of our country.  Everyone is invited to bring a canned food item for the Hingham Interfaith Food Pantry.  In addition, since we're hosting, we need various snacks for a time of "getting-to-know-you" afterwards.  The panel discussion begins at 7:00 PM.

Finer Things Book Club
The book club is back in action on Sunday evening, 12/21.  The group will be discussing Dune, and as it's the last book on our list, come prepared with a suggestion for our next list.  Jason & Heidi Parker are hosting (click here for directions).

North Street Worship Planning Grid
In an effort to be better prepared in worship, Pastor Jeremy & Keri Lewis have developed a grid to help facilitate individuals and planning for our gatherings.  Here is a link to the grid, and the link will always be available on the right side of the North St. News page.

...and last, but certainly not least...introducing...
The first annual North Street Community Retreat!  As we seek to reflect community more, the church board was challenged in thinking about how we can create times of extended interaction with one another.  It's very difficult to get to know each other beyond the surface an hour or two here and there.   So as one initiative, we are planning an annual retreat.  More details will come soon, but for now, block off the weekend of February 13-16 (President's Day Weekend).  We will retreat to our district campground, Windsor Hills.  We'll be staying in "the Inn," which is a wonderful facility with hotel quality rooms.  Stay tuned for more information!

North Street Currents

Well...it's here: Election Day. As we heard on Sunday though (click here to listen to Sunday's message), the voice of Christ's people, the Church, does not end once we've cast a vote. In many ways, it begins today.

Our prayer must continue, even (or especially!) if the candidate for whom you voted is not elected. Click here for the prayers that we prayed on Sunday.

For we who have been born in this country and have grown up here, it's sometimes easy to forget the extense of our opportunity. The world is watching, including our brothers and sisters in Christ throughout the world. I was moved by this note to Pastor Tim Keel from a friend in Kenya.

And finally, below is a reading from Dr. Tom Barnard that I thought follows up Sunday's message very well:

----------------------------------------
And How Should We Proceed?
Tom Barnard
On Wednesday morning, November 5, 2008, Americans will awaken to a new day and a newly-elected national administration. After what seems to be years of campaign-ing, a new administration will be poised to lead our nation for the next four years. A tie vote in Tuesday's election is unlikely. What is likely, however, is a record turnout of registered voters—some are predicting the largest of any election in the history of the Republic.

If I were asked to submit a biblical theme for the new administration to consider adopting
for the next four years, here is my suggestion: "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing. Now it springs up: do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert, and streams in the wasteland." (Isaiah 43: 18, 19)

Abraham Lincoln came into office in turbulent times. Changes were needed. The nation was divided over issues beyond slavery, but that issue was high on the list of concerns that would nearly cripple the nation during his first term. Lincoln wanted Congress to move beyond the ways of past administrations. Here are a few of his words that still echo in the hearts of historians: "The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present…As our case is new, so we must think anew and act anew. We must disenthrall ourselves…."

Well before his election to the presidency, Lincoln had developed a philosophy of leadership that would come to characterize his administration. In what would later be remembered as the "House Divided" speech (in 1855) Lincoln said, "If we could first know where we are, and whither we are tending, we could better judge what to do, and how to do it."

Part of knowing where we are is knowing how we got here. History is full of excellent illustrations. One of the most significant historical developments of the Twentieth Century was the rise and fall of the former Soviet Union. Historian Alexander Solzhenitsyn, reflecting on the sad realities of history in his native land, wrote:

Over half a century ago, while I was still a child, I recall hearing a number of older people offer the following explanation for the great disasters that had befallen Russia: "Men have forgotten God; that's why all this is happening." Since then I have spent well-nigh fifty years working on the history of our revolution; in the process I have read hundreds of books, collected hundreds of testimonies, and have already contributed eight volumes of my own toward the effort of clearing away the rubble left by that upheaval. But if I were asked today to formulate as concisely as possible the main cause of the ruinous revolution that swallowed up some sixty million people, I could not put it more accurately than to repeat, "Men have forgotten God; that's why all this happened."

Whoever wins Tuesday's election can learn a lesson from once formidable adversaries like the former Soviet Union. God grant that it never will be said of America that we have forgotten God. Let our voices be heard from sea to shining sea: "God bless America."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks, Dr. Barnard. (And I'd also add, let the prophetic voice of the Church be heard from sea to shining sea: "America...bless God!")

North Street is Now Podcasting
Digital recordings of the weekly spoken word are now available via podcasting. As we continue to work out the kinks, please let us know how things are and are not working for you (e-mail Jeremy). For direct links to the weekly recordings (to listen on your web browser), click here. If you subscribe to podcasts via iTunes, simply search for "North Street Community" in iTunes and you should be able to find the podcast. If there are other podcast grabbers out there that you would like us to use, please e-mail Jeremy at the above address link. Stay "tuned" for more options as we develop this opportunity. But of course, be reminded: the Body of Christ is at her best when we're in the same room together. These recordings are best for those who've been out of town or want to invite friends or family to listen to the spoken word. :-)

***NOTE: No Wednesday Evening Activities***
Many are out of town (including Pastor Jeremy) on Wednesday and others can't be there. So there will be no Wednesday Evening activities (dinner or scripture study) this week, November 5th.

Worship Planning
Pastor Jeremy will be in northern Vermont (away from electronic communication!) for a couple of days seeking God's direction in worship and scripture planning for the next few months and the next liturgical church year (Revised Common Lectionary Year B). Would you pray for him as he does so? Thank you.

Harvest Dinner
Our monthly 3rd Sunday gathering to fellowship potluck will be a harvest dinner on November 16th right after we worship together. The potluck organizers have put together a great plan and menu for the day. Click here to the right to see what you can bring and e-mail Carol N. to let her know. Or you can sign up on Sunday.

...on the calendar
As always, use our online calendar to stay informed.


North Street Currents ADDENDUM

Everyone is invited to join us on Sunday as we celebrate the baptism of Hailey Parker. There will be a time of fellowship after the worship gathering and all are invited. Come and be a part of this important event in our community!

North Street Currents

The leaves have turned and are now falling! Hingham is beautiful right now (click here for a slideshow of some pictures, including some of our church building). If you haven't yet...get out there and enjoy beautiful creation!

The life of our community is bustling:

Weekend of Gatherings:
Mens' Breakfast - All men are invited to our monthly breakfast tomorrow (Saturday, October 25). Pastor Jeremy will be cooking, so come if you dare! We'll gather at 8:30 in the Newell Gathering Room.

Ladies' Apple Picking - All ladies are invited to come apple picking. We are going to Shelburne Farm (www.shelburnefarm.com), located at 106 West Acton Rd, Stow MA, about an hour ride from Quincy. We'll meet and carpool at 9:00 AM from Heidi Parker's house (click here for a map and directions).

Shelburne Farm has a number of fun options. Although it is late in the season...we have checked, and they say that they still have plenty of apples for picking, but if it turns out to be bad picking, they have pumpkins and lots of fall fun! There is no orchard admission fee. In addition to apples and pumpkins, they offer (according to their website): Hayrides, Pony Rides, Moon Bounce, Tractor Rally, Toddler Hay Maze, Sandbox, HAY Climbing PYRAMID for tots, Visit the Farm Animals: Ponies, Goats, Sheep, Chickens, Ducks, Llama, Bunnies. They have Easy, free parking Easy walking to and through the orchard. Smaller trees for smaller pickers. Hot Cider Doughnuts, Amazing Hand-Dipped Caramel Apples (Plain, M&M, Peanut, Candy Corn, more...) Apple Squares, Fresh Baked Apple Pies, Fresh Baked Chocolate-Chip Cookies,
Brownies, Whoopie Pies, and other baked goodies. Hot Mulled Apple Cider, Cold Sweet Apple Cider, Kettle Corn, Scenic Picnic Areas Lunch Menu: Croissant Sandwiches hot from the oven, steamed all-beef Hot Dogs, more!

Children's Bible Quizzing - Our children's quiz group will have their first "practice" quiz on Saturday at the Dennis Church of the Nazarene. They are studying hard, so keep encouraging them!

Faith Promise
We had a great weekend with Tom & Lauralee Nothstine, and are well on our way ($5300+) to our goal of $6000. For those who haven't yet offered a response card but wanted to, there are more cards at the church building. Thanks for everyone's prayerful response! For more information about Faith Promise and how it supports our World Evangelism Fund, click here, here, or speak with Pastor Jeremy or Ed DiSante.

Philippians Wrap-Up
Join us Sunday as we look together at Philippians 4. These are timely words from Paul for today. What does it mean for followers of Christ to live in a time of financial and economic uncertainty?

The Lost Letters of Pergamum Book Discussion #2
NOTE: New Date! We will take a break from Genesis on our regularly scheduled Wednesday evening scripture study and discuss Philippians in light of themes from The Lost Letters of Pergamum. If you've read the novel, now's our chance to discuss it together: Wednesday, October 29th, at 7:00 PM (if you haven't joined us for our community dinner, this would be a great week, 6:00 PM).

...on the Calendar
As always, you can know about our community happenings and gatherings by using our on-line calendar.

North Street Currents

Church of the Nazarene Centennial Sunday
You are invited again to worship with us this Sunday, October 5th, as we, like 18,000 other local churches of the Nazarene across the globe will be celebrating together the 100th anniversary of the International Church of the Nazarene (11:00 AM). Pastor Jeremy will be speaking about the name "Church of the Nazarene" as it relates to scripture, our denominational foundations, and our call as a local community today.

Then on Sunday afternoon, churches from the New England District will be gathering in Quincy at the Wollaston Church of the Nazarene at 4:00 PM for a combined celebration time. The Eastern Nazarene College Gospel Choir will be singing and our District Superintendent, Dr. Jossie Owens will preach. There will be a time of fellowship afterward.

Faith Promise Weekend 2008
And then don't forget that next weekend (October 11-12), we'll have our Faith Promise weekend with Tom and Lauralee Nothstine. We've set a goal of $6000 for the 2008-2009 Faith Promise Year. Dinner will be at 6:30 PM on Saturday evening. The main meal will be provided, but you're invited to bring a dessert. The Nothstines will be speaking to us on Saturday evening and Sunday morning (during our worship gathering - 11:00 AM).

...on the calendar
As always, keep up with the North Street community's happenings by using our online calendar.

North Street Currents

The Kingdom of God is not of this World
Join us Sunday in worship (11:00 AM) as we look together at Philippians 2. We'll contrast the Kingdom of God with the kingdoms of this world.


The Lost Letters of Pergamum
We've already had one great conversation time in response to this novel. Since there were many more interested and who have read the book, we will have another discussion over it soon (stay tuned for details). For those who haven't read it...go for it!

As a reminder, we're reading this novel because during our Sunday morning worship gatherings on September 28th and October 19th & 26th, we'll be looking at Paul's letter to the followers of Christ in Philippi (AKA Philippians). The Lost Letters of Pergamum is a fictional yet well-described picture of what it was like for the early followers of Christ during the time of the Roman Empire.

Men's Breakfast
All men are invited to the Quincy IHOP this Saturday, September 27th at 8:30 AM.

Church of the Nazarene Centennial Sunday
On Sunday, October 5th, local churches of the Nazarene across the globe will be celebrating together the 100th birthday of the International Church of the Nazarene. Join us for our morning worship gathering (11:00 AM). Pastor Jeremy will be speaking about the name "Church of the Nazarene" as it relates to scripture, our denominational foundations, and our call as a local community today.

Then in the afternoon, churches from the New England District will be gathering in Quincy at the Wollaston Church of the Nazarene at 4:00 PM for a combined celebration time. The Eastern Nazarene College Gospel Choir will be singing and our District Superintendent, Dr. Jossie Owens will preach. There will be a time of fellowship afterward.

Faith Promise Weekend 2008
We're just a few weeks away from our Faith Promise weekend with Tom and Lauralee Nothstine. We've set a goal of $6000 for the 2008-2009 Faith Promise Year. Dinner will be at 6:30 PM on Saturday evening. The main meal will be provided, but you're invited to bring a dessert. The Nothstines will be speaking to us on Saturday evening and Sunday morning (during our worship gathering - 11:00 AM). The main meal will be provided, but you're invited to bring a dessert.

Women's Apple Picking & Baking
NOTE!!! The date for this event has changed. It will now be Saturday, October 25th.

...on the calendar
As always, keep up with the North Street community's happenings by using our online calendar.

North Street Update

It's been a while since our last online update, but that doesn't mean nothing's happening! In this update, read on about our annual LobsterFest on Sunday, an invitation to read the novel The Lost Letters of Pergamum, and other up-coming happenings in our community.

LobsterFest '08
This Sunday we'll have our annual LobsterFest at the Newell Compound (5 Driftway, Weymouth, MA). Each year, we welcome back the college students and provide lobster for them (it's particularly fun to watch those for whom it's the first time to eat lobster!). College students - just bring yourselves. Everyone else, bring some chips, desserts, or drinks (and as you're able, money to help pay for the lobsters). See everyone on Sunday!

Wednesday Evening Community Supper & Bible Study
If you haven't joined us yet for Wednesday evening dinner, why don't you come next Wednesday night at 6:00? Everyone brings food enough for themselves (ice water, plates, utensils, etc. are provided for everyone). Then, if you can, plan on staying for Bible study at 7:00 (we'll continue in Genesis, chapter 20).

The Lost Letters of Pergamum
During our Sunday morning worship gatherings on September 21st & 28th and October 19th & 26th, we'll be looking at Paul's letter to the followers of Christ in Philippi (AKA Philippians). As an introduction to some of the themes and cultural issues in Paul's letter, everyone has been invited to read a novel called The Lost Letters of Pergamum. The book is a fictional yet well-described picture of what it was like for the early followers of Christ during the time of the Roman Empire. We have just a couple more copies for those interested to borrow or, if you want, to purchase ($11.50, see Pastor Jeremy).

Everyone is invited to the Book Club Discussion in response to this book on Sunday evening, September 21st at 7:00 PM. The Book Club will meet in the Newell Gathering Room this month. Bring a snack to share.

Men's & Women's Ministries
With the sporadic schedule of the summer behind us, the Men's & Women's groups are beginning again. The men will meet at the Quincy IHOP on September 27th at 8:30 AM. The women are apple picking and baking on Saturday, October 11th (stay tuned for more specific details).

Faith Promise Weekend 2008
Mark your calendars now for our annual Faith Promise Weekend, October 11 & 12 (stay tuned for times). Our speakers will be Tom and Lauralee Nothstine.

The Nothstines are retired global missionaries for the Church of the Nazarene. The Nothstines graduated from Bethel College in Mishawaka, Indiana. Tom received the B.A. degree in Biblical literature. Lauralee received the B.S. degree in elementary education. Tom also earned his M.Div. and M.A. in missiology degrees from Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. He received ordination in 1972.

In 1975, Tom and Lauralee were appointed as missionaries to Swaziland. Tom served as academic dean and teacher at the Nazarene College of Theology in Siteki, Swaziland, and as mission director for the Church Growth Council. Lauralee assisted in the library and taught part-time at the Bible College.

The Nothstines accepted a new assignment to Madagascar in 1994. They helped develop a theological education program, vocational training program, and the NCMI Street Kids Center. Tom served as the theological education director, mission coordinator and assistant to the field strategy coordinator for the Indian Ocean Islands. Lauralee taught English and had an administrative role on the field.

The Nothstines are currently living in Kankakee, IL. Lauralee works part time in the library at Olivet Nazarene University. Tom continues to travel and speak on behalf of World Missions. They have three grown children: Tom, Todd, and Tricia, four grand daughters, two grandsons and twin grand daughters due in November.

T-Mobile Cell Antennae/Steeple Update
It appears that our "option-to-lease" contract with T-Mobile will be exercised within the next week or so. Construction will begin very soon in the steeple and in the lowest level of our church building. This should not interfere with any regularly-scheduled activities or gatherings. The church board is prayerfully excited about this opportunity. See Pastor Jeremy with any questions.

...on the calendar
As always, keep up with the North Street community's happenings by using our online calendar.

North Street Update

The Word Speaks...on Mondays too!
We had a wonderful time in worship together yesterday, being reminded of Paul's words in Romans 8:26-39 concerning God's great concern for us, that God is indeed "in it for and with us." So as you begin the work week, remember...nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

If you missed it, or would like to "hear" it again. Here is some of the text of yesterday's spoken Word.

Be encouraged!

Co-ed Softball
We have our last game of the season tonight! We are in the midst of a lengthy win streak (two games!), and want to finish out the season with another win. So come on out and play, watch, or cheer (6:30 at Humphrey Field in Weymouth).

Wednesday Evening Community Supper & Bible Study
If you haven't joined us yet for Wednesday evening dinner, why don't you come this Wednesday night at 6:00 (bring food enough for yourself)? Then plan on staying for Bible study at 7:00 (we'll continue in the story of Abram & Sarai this week).

Wedding Shower
Spread the word! Come celebrate next Sunday, August 3rd, as we host a wedding shower for EJ & Keri Lewis. The celebration will commence following our worship gathering and will end when EJ & Keri are tired from opening wedding gifts. The couple has registries at Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, and The Pampered Chef (click on "The Wedding Registry" and use the couple's info to find their registry - they were married in May). Questions? E-mail Andrew Rankin. Thanks!

The Lost Letters of Pergamum
After we've finished our time in Romans this summer, our focus on Sunday mornings will shift to Paul's letter to the followers of Christ in Philippi (best known as Philippians). As an introduction to some of the themes and cultural issues in Paul's letter, I'm inviting everyone to read a novel called The Lost Letters of Pergamum. The title is unfortunate, but has nothing to do with "lost gospels" or the quest for extra-biblical material, so fear not! Rather, the book is a fictional yet wonderful picture of what it looked like for those who followed Christ during the time of the Roman Empire.

While we won't be studying Philippians until mid-September, I wanted to give you a chance now to get the book and begin reading it. If finding the book or the money to purchase the book is difficult at this time, please contact me, and we'll work something out. I want everyone to have a chance to read it without any hindrances.

...on the calendar
As always, keep up with the North Street community's happenings by using our online calendar.

North Street Update

God Is In It For Us
Throughout human history, many have conceived of a god or gods who are "out to get" humanity, just waiting for us to trip up so God can "get us." How vastly different is our God, the Father of Jesus Christ throughout scripture and in experience. As we're reading in Romans 8, our God is one who seeks what's best for us, works out situations for our best interest, and even intercedes for us "with sighs too deep for words." On Sunday during worship, we'll consider these words from Paul. Click here to read our passages for Sunday. (As always, you can know where we'll be each Sunday by following our community scripture way.)

Co-ed Softball
Coming out of a one-run win last week, our softball season continues this evening. So come on out and play or cheer us along. Game time is 6:00 at Humphrey Field in Weymouth.

Men's Breakfast
Tomorrow, Saturday, July 26th at 8:00 AM at the home of Jason Parker (click here for a map and directions).

The Finer Things Book Club
The book club will meet on Sunday evening at 7:00 at the home of the Scotts. The book at hand is The Demon in the Freezer by Richard Preston. Even if you haven't read the book, feel free to come as discussion always easily includes most everyone's thoughts on a given subject.

...on the calendar
As always, use our on-line calendar to keep up with the events and happenings of North Street.

North Street Update

It's been a while since our last update. The summer is as crazy as always! With sporadic schedules being a normal part of your summer, we can't forget our daily need for the Word of God to speak in and through us. Prayer, scripture reading, fellowship, and worship: all are important as we seek to stay close to God and one another. Here are some things going on to help:

Wednesday Evening Dinner
Last Wednesday we had our first Wednesday Evening Community Dinner. Come tonight as we gather again to share family dinner together at 6:00 PM. Bring something to eat (we have ice water, plates, and utensils for everyone). Then...

Wednesday Evening Corporate Scripture Study
Tonight we will continue our corporate scripture study in Genesis, looking at the story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11. Even if you can't come for dinner, come to study together at 7:00 PM.

Softball We have a co-ed softball game tomorrow evening. Come and play or watch!

Gathering to Fellowship
This coming Sunday is the third Sunday of the month, and we will gather to fellowship after we worship together. Like we did last summer, we'll head on over to the Hingham Town Beach for an afternoon of food and fellowship. Everyone is invited to bring normal picnic-type foods (cold-cut sandwiches, pasta salad, macaroni salad, veggies, chips, etc.) Bring beach/lawn games, blankets, camping chairs, or whatever else you think would make the afternoon more enjoyable. Feel free to dress for the day with the picnic in mind (even if it means that you're in shorts during worship!).

The Remembrance
Everyone is invited to come to our gathering of "The Remembrance" on Sunday evening at 6:00 PM. If you haven't experienced this worship gathering yet, perhaps you would join us this time?

...on the calendar
As always, use our on-line calendar to keep up with happenings for the whole North Street community.

North Street Update

Notes from Jeremy: Summer in Rome, Membership, & Out of Town
Readings Romans
We've been enjoying together challenges and encouragement from Paul's letter to the church in Rome this summer. Last Sunday, I asked if others would join me in reading the letter in one sitting this week. Several of you agreed to. Thanks!

For those who weren't able to worship with us this past Sunday, here's what I'm asking:
I'd like you to consider reading Romans in one sitting this week. I know that we're reading it in parts in our community scripture way, but sometimes it is very helpful to read scripture in the whole.

Remember that Paul wrote this as a letter to the followers of Christ in Rome. They didn't open the letter, read the first few sentences and then digest them for an hour, a week, or a year. The Christians in Rome would have opened the letter, read it aloud all at once. And this was Paul's intention. So it is very helpful sometimes for us to try what we can to recreate the original setting and understanding of scripture, especially with such a well-developed structure as the one in Romans.

I did it again this past week, and I was blown away again by what I read. Verses that I've memorized growing up took on new meaning in context of the whole letter. I was moved by the Spirit of God in the Word of God.

So I'm asking you if you'll commit to reading the whole book of Romans in one sitting. Depending on how you read, it may take you 15 or 20 minutes or it may take you over an hour. But one thing I don't want you to do is stop and go back and try and catch something you may have missed. Just keep reading it in one long flow.

And for those of you who do, let me know that you did and share some insights or things you noticed in reading it this way by e-mailing me.

Baptism & Membership
A number of people have spoken with me about baptism and/or membership at North Street. I imagine there may be more of you out there. Send me an e-mail if you would like to discuss the opportunity to be baptized, join North Street in local membership, if you have any about what any of it means.

Out of Town
The kids, Meghan, and I will be out of town for a short vacation with the Parker side of our family Wednesday through Monday. We'll be camping in Delaware. Rev. Melissa DeBono, a minister from our sister church at Quincy Bethel and staff for Friends of the Homeless, will be preaching.

Corporate Scripture Study
Tomorrow evening we will continue our study of Genesis at 7:00 in the Newell Gathering Room, looking at the story of Cain & Abel in chapter 4.

Softball
Our next co-ed softball game is not until July 3rd. But plan now to come out and play or watch then! All games are at Humphrey Field.

North Street Calendar
As always, you can see what's going on by using our online calendar.

Hailey Ruth Parker

Hailey Ruth Parker (father Dana, mother Elise) was born today, Sunday afternoon at 3:55 PM, weighing 8 pounds, measuring 20.25 inches long. Everyone is doing great!

North Street Update

Summer in Rome
We invite you to join North Street this summer as we look at the book of Romans together each Sunday morning.

Wednesday Evening Scripture Study
Tonight we continue our study in Genesis. We'll look specifically tonight at the two creation accounts in the first two chapters. See you at 7:00!

community scripture way
The readings for Sunday morning worship and our Wednesday evening corporate study are part of our daily bible reading plan, the community scripture way. Click here to see it online. The idea is to read individually and come together to be formed corporately.

Softball
Our next co-ed softball game is tomorrow, Thursday, June 5th at 6:00. Come out and play or watch! All games are at Humphrey Field.

Board Meetings
The Church Board has again established the second Tuesday of the month as the monthly meeting time. The next board meeting will be this coming Tuesday, June 10th, at 6:30 PM in the Newell Gathering Room.

FHSS Video
Some have asked to see the video for Friends of the Homeless of the South Shore that was presented to the New England District Assembly. Here it is:



(If you are viewing this in e-mail, you likely cannot see the video. Click here to see it.)

North Street Calendar
As always, you can see what's going on by using our online calendar.
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