Haines Presbyterian Church, Haines Alaska

Chilkat Mission Bell
Newsletter of Haines Presbyterian Church
Revived October 1994
Editor Doris Ward
Publication first Sunday of each month

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hainespc@aptalaska.net. Thank you.

For the last several weeks, Crystal and I have been preaching from the book of Acts. So far in this series, we have seen the tremendous change in the apostles and how they have carried on the ministry of Jesus through their preaching and healing. Just as we saw in the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus confirmed His teaching and preaching with amazing miracles, the apostles in Acts continue this pattern of mighty words and mighty deeds. Like the people's reaction to Jesus in Luke, the people are amazed with both the authority that is demonstrated in the apostle's teaching, and the authority demonstrated by their miracles. But there seem to be two major differences. First, the apostles' authority is also demonstrated in a major change in the way they live. The resurrection of Christ changed them from scared, timid individuals into people with power and authority. Second, Jesus concentrated His teaching and miracles outside Jerusalem, and the apostles are doing it right in the Temple area.

We have to stop and ask ourselves whether what the apostles did in the Temple 2000 years ago makes any difference in our lives today. Are you amazed by their teaching? Are you amazed by their mighty deeds? Does the power and authority of Jesus Christ that was demonstrated in their lives have any impact in yours? Does His resurrection matter in your life, today in Haines?

These are questions that all of us need to ponder as we study Scripture. I know that Jesus is alive and that He has all authority over creation. Because He lives today, what He did 2000 years ago, He still does for those with faith. His still teaches with authority and He still performs miracles that demonstrate His authority. The Book of Acts is confirmation of that fact - He passed on His authority and power to His disciples. If we consider ourselves to be disciples of Jesus, do we have the faith to listen and obey His teaching, and to participate in the miracles that are around us?

Jesus commands us to love one another, to forgive those who have hurt us, to ask forgiveness from those we have hurt, and to be reconciled with each other. (See: John 15:17). But it is frequently hard for us to obey these commands because we are afraid that we might suffer additional hurt. An example that helps me is that of a small child who falls down and skins her knee. Her mother or dad knows that the dirt must be washed out of the skinned knee in order for it to heal properly. As parents, we know that the washing will cause additional pain, but that pain is necessary for the healing to be complete. Our Heavenly Father also knows that sometimes we need to suffer additional hurt in order for the healing to be complete. So even if it hurts, let Jesus wash your wounds, so that the infection of bitterness does not occur. This cleansing happens when we love, forgive and are reconciled with others.

Is there someone who has hurt you? Go to them and forgive them. Have you hurt someone else? Go to them and ask for their forgiveness. Do you know of someone who is lonely and isolated? Go to them, let them know that you care for them, and show them the love of Christ. What is common in these situations - we are to go to the other person, we are not to wait for them to come to us.

Jesus also commands us to love and serve each other. Jesus even washes His disciples' dirty feet and says that that is a pattern we should follow (see John 13:1-17). We don't wash each other's feet anymore, so how do we love and serve each other? First, I think we need to be very observant, and look for the needs in others. When you ask someone how they are, look into their eyes and see if they are really “Fine.” When you see that your neighbor isn't doing well, do something about it. Winter is just around the corner, which can be a hard time in Haines. Jobs are scarce, the economy is down, and heating oil is expensive. Does your neighbor need help with firewood, help with getting some more heating oil, an extra meal? Look and see their needs, then act.

We know that the resurrection of Jesus made a huge impact on the apostles. Does He still speak and act with all authority? If He does, then go to others and demonstrate that Jesus is alive and has authority in your life and in this community. Ron

Have you seen a new person in town recently? Did you invite that person to church? Extend your hand and greeting to the next stranger you see and let him know he’s welcome at Haines Presbyterian. If he’s going somewhere else to church, tell him you share God’s blessing with him.

We will get a firsthand account of business and news of Southeast churches by our representatives, Ron and Jacque Horn, Bonnie Sharnbroich and Bill Rostad. Crystal Badgley will preach in Ron’s absence.

Dr. Walter Soboleff will be honored for his 100th birthday and his long-time ministry. Haines church has a special place in our heart for his friendship and leadership.

Ron Horn is teaching an overview of the Bible in afternoon classes each Friday at 1:30. A list of Bible verses being used is available in the Matthews Room under the bulletin board and each session will be taped.

Beginning on Oct. 27, Ron will teach a membership class. If you want to find out more about the Presbyterian church, what we believe and what membership means, please come. It will be at 3:30 p.m.

The Women’s Christian Fellowship begins a new season the 2nd Saturday of the month at 1 p.m. Amy Junkin Nash will be the first speaker Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Port Chilkoot Bible Church. It is a time for devotional, good food, and fellowship among the community women, and it moves to different churches throughout the year. Invite someone.

Plan for the November Harvest auction to benefit the Salvation Army Christmas baskets. Bring a new or handmade item to the meeting at the Salvation Army Nov. 8 at 1 p.m.

A busy summer is slowing down as jobs change, snowbirds fly away, schools go in gear, and visitors don’t come as often. We can refocus on what we’re doing and why.

Our Sunday School curriculum is in the able hands of teachers and helpers in the new program that rotates leaders and attempts to get more of the congregation involved as students and leaders.

On Sept. 7 a commissioning of Sunday School teachers was led by Crystal Badgley, who said they had a “ call to willing discipleship.” One responsibility is teaching, she said, and asked the congregation for a “promise of support in the name of our Lord Jesus.” She cited Deut. 6 as a relevant chapter to read.

Singers, directed by Crystal Badgely, meet for rehearsal Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. New members have joined, and anyone who likes to sing is invited. The excellent choir sings anthems for worship and prepares special seasonal music. Soloists and small groups occasionally sing.

The Nominating Committee will submit the names of Al Badgley and Nancy Schnabel as elders, and Ramona Holmes as deacon at the annual congregational meeting in Nov.

Anyone else interested in serving as deacon may talk with Bill Rostad, chair, and nominations may be made from the floor. Other committee members are Nancy Schnabel, Matt Davis, Terry Sharnbroich, and Donna Walter.

With our most generous PFD and energy assistance we consider how much we return to the Lord, who owns it all. Our local congregation faces rising costs from food to fuel and we search our hearts as we balance budget and mission. It is a time to give generously as we are blessed. We thank treasurer Terry Sharnbroich and budget committee, who work wonders with our finances.

We owe the Lord stewardship of time and talent as well as money. Are we using what we have as wise stewards?

Pick up your Operation Christmas Child box to fill with items for children around the world who might not have a Christmas without the boxes. Darlene and Susan have details about what can go inside. Boxes will be dedicated Oct. 26 and sent to a collection point for mailing to recipients. Share the real Christmas spirit.

October 6-12 is Fire Prevention Week, when we ask what can be done to prevent home fires.

Leading causes are cooking, smoking, heating, electrical, children playing with matches, and unattended candles.

Do you have working smoke detectors in your home? Are they tested monthly? Batteries changed yearly? Do you have an escape plan for your home that includes two ways out of each room? Do you have fire extinguishers and know how to use them?

Find some answers at the Fire Prevention open house at the Haines Fire Station Friday, Oct. 10, 3-6 p.m. , when you can take part in activities, including Using an Escape Ladder, Escape from a Smoke Room, Blood Pressure Checks, and others.

Fireman Al Badgley said, “Come on down and participate, but remember every day is fire prevention day. Be safe.”

Don Holgate, 79, died at home Sept. 13. He and Betty, who came here from New England in 1973, built a boat shop in their Mud Bay yard for fishing and boat building. Survivors include wife Betty, son Billy of Wash., niece Ruth Heese, Juneau, 2 grandchildren and 2 greats. A reception followed the burial at Jones Point Sept. 15.

Allie Cordes, 90, died in Phoenix Sept. 30. She and Marty came here with the buyers of Ft. Seward after WWII and were pioneers in community activities. Local survivors include sister Erma Schnabel and family, son Omar Cordes, Hong Kong, and many, many friends. A memorial at the Sheldon Museum was held on Oct. 4.

October 2008 Newsletter