The United Presbyterian Church 

of Sackets Harbor, New York

Mable Letter

The Deacons

United Presbyterian Church of Sackets Harbor

October 15, 2011

Dear Friends,

It’s definitely Autumn! I’m typing this letter in the office while listening to the wind rattle the windows and raindrops beat against the glass. I try not to turn up the heat until absolutely necessary but I may give in before the afternoon is over. I’m thinking of Melodie and many members of our congregation who are at Beaver Camp this weekend for the annual church retreat. Overall, I’m sure they will all a have a worthwhile experience especially if they manage to stay warm and dry.

I hope everyone had a wonderful summer. After a rainy spring, Northern New York enjoyed warm sunny weather and a host of fun summer activities. When I wrote last, the choir was preparing to lead a worship service on August 21^st. We shared some of our favorite music and each choir member shared what they consider their gifts from God, talents and experiences not necessarily related to music,.

August through September, Melodie's son Buddy and Dick continued to take pictures for our new pictorial directory. We still have to catch a few people but the directory is almost complete. Deacons reviewed the list of members and friends to be include. I hope we didn’t miss anyone and that our booklet will be helpful for everyone.

On September 11^th, Sunday School began an exciting new season. Seventh grade an up will be studying "Ancestors", a program, dealing with prominent people of the Old Testament in a refreshing way. Younger children will also cover parts of the Old Testament with many fun activities and lots of music. We are grateful for a dedicated group of volunteers leading the Sunday school and hope to see lots of young people enjoy the programs.

October 2^nd was World Communion Sunday. We were joined in worship by Rev. Paul Heller and his wife Darlene who have served as missionaries in Malawi. I know I very much enjoyed the newsletter they sent out during their time working at a crisis nursery. It was interesting to hear first hand about their experiences and see slides of the nursery and the beautiful babies they helped rescue.

That same Sunday, the Peacemaking Offering was taken. This offering goes to help international and local groups which promote world pea ce. A portion of the $400 collected went to the anti-bullying program here at out local school.

Last Sunday Rev. Adele Spencer lead us in worship while Melodie was away on study leave. The choir sang one of my favorites, "Every Day is a Gift From the Lord". Dick and Patti’s daughter Elizabeth joined us to sing the solo in this piece. She did a lovely job- wish we had her here every Sunday but she is always welcome to sing when visiting Sackets Harbor.