Over the summer, Pastor Eric Olsen and Michael Martin will be following the same spiritual outline for their weekly messages, concentrating on the theme: Gifts of the Spirit, Fruits of the Spirit.
We started on June 24 with God’s gifts through the Spirit.
July 1: The Gift of Wisdom & Knowledge     July 8: The Gift of Faith     July 15: The Gift of Understanding
July 22: Fruits of the Spirit     July 29: the Fruit of Joy     August 5: The Fruit of Patience
August 12: The Fruit of Self-control     Ausugt 19: The Fruit of Peace     August 26: The Fruit of Kindness
September 2: The Fruit of Hope

Your prayers move God to change the world. You may not understand the mystery of prayer. You don’t need to. But this much is clear: Actions in heaven begin when someone prays on earth. (The Great House of God by Max Lucado)
God does most of his work through people. May our lives be marked by kindness so that others will see God in us.
We don’t get closer to God by passing judgement on others. Instead may we be quick to listen and slow to speak and to judge.
Christ is the door that keeps us in and keeps the dangers out; for the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are standing watch over the events of our lives helps us to rest securely in your protection.
“Silent” and “listen” are spelled with the same letters. (Guideposts)
A riddle: What is greater than God and more evil than the Devil? The poor have it, the rich need it. And, if you eat it, you will die. (the answer is NOTHING)
The more we understand God’s love for us and what He did for us, the more love we will show to others.
For those who pray and wait; God does not depend on our time. Our time is chronological and linear but God is timeless. He will act at the fullness of His time. Our prayer will not necessarily rush God into action, but places us before Him in fellowship.
Lord, help me to love both words and deeds, to reach out to others and meet their needs. One act of kindness may teach more about the love of God than many sermons.
Loving God doesn’t make life effortless, but having His strength makes it easier.
No danger can come so near the Christian that God is not nearer – especially when we are tempted to panic or to do things in our own strength.
The key to effective relationships are gentleness and humility. When correction is necessary, it should be done with kindness and love. In that way we become imitators of our Lord Jesus Christ.
           
DID YOU NOTICE - The delightful mural on the wall in the children’s corner of the sanctuary? Many thanks to Susan Olsen (Pastor Eric’s wife) for creating this.
 
SARANAC LAKE ECUMENICAL FOOD PANTRY
July is peanut butter and jelly month. Please add your donation to the red shopping cart at the back of the sanctuary.
 
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN YARD SALE
Yard sale for benefit of UMW will be held July 27 & 28 at the church   On Friday July 27 from 9am to 4pm 
and Saturday July 28 from 9am to 3pm.  Donations maybe left at church by July 24.  All items must be in
good working order.  No TV,computers or exercise  equipment.  NO CLOTHING.  We will start setting up 
Monday July 23 to Thursday July 26.  Questions: call church at 891-3473, Charlotte Hall at 891-2129 or Deborah Donaldson at 891-4199. 
 
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN
Our annual dinner, 6:30 pm at the Red Fox. If any of you ladies would like to join us, please call Jessie Aubin 518-891-0822 for details.
 
Upper New York Annual Conference BOLDLY LIVES OUR CALL
The information in this article comes from the BRIDGE, a Conference Communications Ministry tool that delivers to local churches news and stories of ministry from around the Upper New York Conference and the world.
            Members of the Upper New York Annual Conference gathered for the ninth session May 30 – June 2 at the SRC Arena in Syracuse, NY.
            Upper New York Area Resident Bishop, Mark J. Webb officiated and led the Conference around the theme Boldly Living Our Call.
            If we are to boldly live our call – “if we are to be effective in the mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ – our identity must be grounded in the identity of Christ,” Bishop Webb said, during opening worship. “We must acknowledge Christ! We must acknowledge who Christ is, not based on who the world says he is or based on our ideas, our definitions, our understandings, but on who Jesus said he was in word and in action. We must confess Jesus as our Savior and Lord.” 
            Conference Teacher, Rev. Dr. L. Gregory Jones led two study sessions. The first focused on not going back to Egypt.
            “Each one of us has a ‘back to Egypt’ part of our souls,” Rev. Jones explained. “We get a glimpse of what God is calling us to do, and we get uncertain. And we say, ‘I don’t think so. Egypt sounds just fine to me.’ Oh how often we just settle for ‘going back to Egypt.’”
            The second study session focused on getting the past out of our eyes to attain  an extraordinary future.
             “If we are going to boldly move into our call, if we are really going to be able to understand the summons coming from God, we need to recognize all that needs to be unlearned so we can change,” Rev. Jones said.        
            The Rev. Corey Turnpenny was the speaker for this year’s Memorial Service; visit http://bit.ly/AC2018memorialserv ice for the full article and the listing of those who were remembered. Bishop Webb honored retirees, new local church appointments, ordinands, commissioners, and the Cabinet at the Service of Blessing and Anointing.    
            Last years’ Harry Denman evangelism award winners Sandi Pearl (clergy) and Mark Jones (laity) presented this year’s Denman Award. Mark Jones presented the Denman award, posthumously to laity recipient Kevin T. Dunn. Kevin’s wife Amara, parents John and Wanda, and grandmother Eloise accepted the award for him. Pastor Perl presented the clergy recipient of the Harry Denman evangelism award to Pastor Mike Kelly.    Several recommendations were addressed through holy conferencing: The Conference Leadership Team Recommendation that every UNY congregation be required to use the Vital Signs Dashboard starting Sept. 1, 2018, was supported as amended to strongly encouraged rather than required
            Board of Pension & Health Benefits recommendations one and two, both supported; visit http://bit.ly/AC2018pensionandhealthreport for details.
            Equitable Compensation recommendations one through five were all supported or supported as amended.
            Eleven resolutions were discussed. visit hptp://bit.ly/AC2018resolutions for a full article on the resolutions and to learn which were supported and which were not supported. The ninth session of the Upper New York Annual Conference concluded with the service of Ordination and Commissioning. Bishop Dennis V. Proctor from the North Eastern Episcopal District of the African Method ist Episcopal Zion
Church was the preacher.
            Bishop Proctor’s message was about what we can all give to help others: affirmation, information, and inspiration. His sermon was centered on Acts Chapter 3—the telling of James and John making their way into a temple when they saw a man unable to walk begging for alms. James and John, holding the man’s hand, said, ‘Silver and Gold, we have none, but such as we have, we give to thee. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth...rise up and walk.” The man rose, walked, leaped, and praised God.
            In terms of giving affirmation, Bishop Proctor said, “Peter and John paid attention to the man, holding his hand, affirming they hear his call.”  
            Speaking of the gift of information, Bishop Proctor said, “Peter and John did not take the credit for the power to perform a miracle; they said, ‘In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth ’ Bishop Proctor continued, “You must be willing to tell the world who Jesus really is.
            As for inspiration, Bishop Proctor reiterated how the man in the temple not only walked but he leaped, praising God  He said, “This man had new energy...he was not only healed physiologically but also psychologically...it’s not you,  me, us, but the power that works through us”
            For a full list of the 2018 commissioners and ordinands and more on Bishop Proctor’s sermon visit http://bit.ly/AC2018ordination.     
            For a full Annual Conference 2018 wrap-up including notes and videos, visit http://bit.ly/AC2018wrapup
 
REMEMBER WITH A CARD         
Rose Nadon: Neighborhood House, PO Box 46, Keene Valley, NY 12943
Genevieve Clarkson: Champlain Valley Senior Community, 10 Gilliland Lane, Willsboro, NY 12996
Bruce Barnard: P.O. Box 246, Rainbow Lake, NY 12976.
Margaret Turnbull:  3873 Burnup Road   Black River, NY  13612  
DID YOU KNOW…? Your church can be found on Facebook. Just go to First United Methodist Saranac Lake.  (complete with capital letters and spaces.) When the page comes up, click on “like.”

It is officially summer and I know that I am not alone in enjoying the beautiful weather and sunshine. Hallelulah!
 
As many of you know this month, the beginning of July, is the official one year mark of my pastoring here with the congregation. It is a milestone in my 30 years of ordained ministry and one of pure joy. I know you have been very patient with me and I sincerely apologize for mistakes in worship, missing cues, not being as available as I would like. I also thank you for letting me change things up from time to time. It is hard to find the pulse of a congregation and the dynamics of ours make it still a steep learning curve.
 
As you know my main concern is the spiritual health of everyone who graces our community with their presence.  I know that we are all healthier and better when we have a sence of God’s purpose as a community and too, each of us personally. As we have God’s word each week and the fire of faith grows within us, we know we have something to believe in. As we share this belief in our actions and love, our greater community cannot fail to take notice of the Holy Spirit moving in our midst.
 
Equally important is building our sense of belonging, making sure every member knows they are loved and valuable. We take no one for granted. There are many ministries coming from our Methodist community and each is important. They take a lot of energy and time. We need to remember to care for the care givers and remind each other of our great value. We must also be certain of our neighbor’s wellbeing. More than knowing a person’s name and seeing them on Sundays we need to get to know each other well. The United Methodist Women and Man’s Group, Community Suppers, Bible Studies, work projects, committees and special events are all opportunities to build the bonds of spiritual friendship and fellowship. I am hoping we can extend each of these ministries to make certain and without a shadow of a doubt that everyone knows they have somewhere to belong and someone cares. In the true sense of the word we need to become an affectionate community with the Love of Christ.
 
Lastly, I hope each and every one of you will spend some time with me in private. I have had the rivilege of getting to know some of you. These things take time. Over the summer my office hours will be on Fridays from 9-12 and I can be available at other times too. I want to get to know each and every one of you better. As long as we are together in ministry we will live, laugh, love, cry and mourn with each other. I want to pray with you and for what is important in your life and share the love of Christ in the best of ways. All too often I get to know individuals during crisis or transition, I hope we can learn about each other long before those days come, as we know they will, so when they do come, we can stand together in faith and strength.
 
You are a deeply spiritual community with a hundred unique and gifted people around us. Hallelulah! I am blessed and grateful to be a part of this exciting ministry and looking forward to the coming year and all that the Holy Spirit will bless us with.

Pastor Eric Olsen

David when contemplating his existence and walk with the Lord asks in Psalm 8, “Who is man that you are mindful of him?”
           
This is a deep and personal inquiry and a question any person of faith might ask. “Who am I that you are mindful of me?” is indeed one of the fundamental questions asked in any healthy relationship. I say healthy because there are some who never take the time to reflect on who they are and how they might appear to others much less God. But reflection and contemplation about who and what we are is the pinnacle of our humanity and the gateway to our spirituality.
           
Spiritual formation truly begins with recognizing three important elements of existence.

First: We are spiritual beings first, human beings second. God tells Jeremiah that he knew him before he was born and shall know him when he dies, Jesus also reminds His disciples that I have proceeded from that father and from there I shall return. There are many scriptures to include the transfiguration to remind us of our greater selves.
           
Second: Our existence goes hand in hand with our spiritual development. Jesus and His entire teaching was to get us past our fears of learning and to unclutter the path to divine engagement. Jesus reminded His followers and us of our ability to rise above the trite and ugly parts of this world and be people of peace, healing, joy and grace. As He did this, He also worked to stop closed minded and closed spirited people from monopolizing and monetizing God. The Pharisees and others held Him in contempt for freeing the human soul from the greedy clutches of lesser men. We need to recognize we are free and more importantly free to learn and grow mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
           
Third: The Holy Spirit is right here to guide us. Jesus sent and sends the advocate to assist us in our daily walk. Some might see this as a dependence but it is far from it. The Holy Soirit is an awakening of the heart as well as the mind. It is not emotionalism, reason, sentimentality or positive projection though these may touch on it. The Holy Spirit centers in our very being of knowing right fromm wrong, mercy from contempt, love from hate and grace for judgement. It is centered on knowing we are created for purpose and evolving into something greater. It is our personal relationship with God.
           
I share this with you this month because I have had a few conversations finding some folks unsure of this spiritual journey. As we spend these summer months exploring the Holy Spirit, the gifts of the Spirit and the fruits of the Spirit, this is a good place to start. There is more to this world than meets they eye and the Lord wants to show it to you.
           
As you read, pray and contemplate on who you are before both God and others, please recognize this: You are more than you know, capable of mre than you dream, loved greater than you can begin to understand and, as the Psalmist writes in Psalm 8 “made a little lower than the angels”. We are of God’s divine designing a world seeking a meaning that we already have.

When I take things into my own hands and worry; that weighs my spirit down and sometimes robs me of rest. God is our Father. I will never think of anything that He will forget, so why should I worry?
                                                                        -- Oswald Chambers
Begin each day with the Lord, reading God’s word, thanking Him for His love, seeking His guidance. It’s not magic –it’s maintenance, as we ask the Lord each day to fill our hearts with His presence on the road of life.

Often when we are faced with an impossible situation, we choose worry rather than trust you and remember that nothing is too hard for you.

Blessed are those who have not seen me and yet have believed (John 20:29.) Lord, help me to trust you when life doesn’t make sense. Please take my doubt and replace it with fresh faith in you. The risen Christ opens the door for you to have fullness of life.

A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help other people (listed in I Corinthians 12:8-10). God does not give his spiritual gifts for his own selfish use but to serve others and in so doing, we serve him.

Once again we had a very successful rummage sale the end of April. A special thanks to the following people who helped.
Setting up the tables were: Jim & Linda Pierson, Grant & Cindy Besio, John & Virginia Santy, Mitch Smith,
Marissa Valentine, Emma Besio, Bill Cross. Setting up the tent outside were: Jim  & Barbara Halla, Elwin & Charlotte Hall Joel Wit, Jim Pierson.  
Setting up and working the sale were:  Barbara Halla, Charlotte Hall,  Gina Norton, Jean  McDonough, Dolores Commo, Jessie Aubin, Marsha Begor, Jean Kern, Merle Smith, Avana Forsyth, Josie DeFurnia, Leland Flint, Maxine Chardeen, Eileen McCalvin, Nancy Roberts, Joan Sleinkofer, Ruth Damp, Virginia Santy, Barbara Darrah, Cindy Besio, Linda Pierson, Cathy Fuller, Diane Kelting, Cathy LeBlanc, Marlene Martin, Anita Meserole, William Douglas, Debbie Harrison, Darrell Davies, Mitch Smith, Joel Wit, Alan Roberts, Al Fuller, Roz Deitz, Janean McElyea, Jim Pierson.  
Again we wish to thank everyone for helping to raise some money for the church.  We made a total of $3,526.00.
Not bad for 3 days work. 

The June meeting will have the usual business. There will be a meeting on July 12. At this time, the ladies will have their annual dinner. Stay tuned for more information in the July newsletter.

June is pasta and sauces month. Please add your donation to the red shopping cart at the back of the sanctuary.

The Ecumenical Council continues with its two largest projects, Samaritan House and Grace Pantry.  At Samaritan House, a life skills program, sponsored by an organizational grant, is in the beginning stages of implementation.  Each new resident receives a need assessment and the mandatory program is tailored to individual needs.  Examples of program offerings include literacy training, personal financial management, housekeeping skills, etc.  Samaritan House continues to have between three and eight residents at any given time.  The plan for the future of Samaritan House is to own the current building and set up its own long-term organization.  In April 2018, Grace Pantry served 105 different households containing 215 people.  The items most needed at this time are shampoo and adult hygiene products (feminine hygiene and depends-type products).  The Ecumenical Council continues to coordinate services with the Salvation Army.  From January to end of April, Salvation Army has distributed $2700 for fuel, electric and rent.  Please pray for the continued success and implementation of these programs our local churches support. 
In addition, we received a thank you letter from the council acknowledging our donation for $1200 to the council.

Rose Nadon: Neighborhood House, PO Box 46, Keene Valley, NY 12943

Genevieve Clarkson: Champlain Valley Senior Community, 10 Gilliland Lane, Willsboro, NY 12996

Bruce Barnard: P.O. Box 246, Rainbow Lake, NY 12976.

Margaret Turnbull:  3873 Burnup Road   Black River, NY  13612

Your church can be found on Facebook. Just go to First United Methodist Saranac Lake.  (complete with capital letters and spaces.) When the page comes up, click on “like.”

Pledge and identified giving along with plate offering and Festival Offerings is $4,566 better than last year. Special Appeals for fuel at $1,1195 is $1,003 better than last year.
We received $7,900 to cover the cost of the purchasing pew cushions for the sanctuary, balcony and choir loft. So far we have spent $8,450.
We received $1,845 as a use donation for the Community Supper.
Rummage sale income was $3,526 compared to last year of $3,785 which was recorded in May in 2017. Salaries are $3,132 less than last year.
Our fuel expense in January is $2,453 greater than last year reflecting cold weather and increased cost per gallon. Music and the cost for the hand bells is $665 over last year.
Ecumenical Council received $1,200 this year compared to zero last year.
Repairs and Maintenance is $2,121 is over last year  including $497 spent on the exterior of the building, $872 on the heating system, $538 on the lift, $435 on electrical and $213 on the men’s bathroom.  We continue to be current on our Ministry Shares payments.
Our current income is $714 over current expenses at this time.  The Rummage sale income put us ahead of expenses at this time.
According to my calculations we have $48,228 in unallocated funds at the end of the month.

Each year, our United Methodist Women coordinate these offerings. Checks should be made payable to the UMW. Special envelopes may be found in the back, where the Sunday bulletins are found. Please place your donations into one of marked envelopes. If you want credit on your annual giving statement, please include your envelope number. Thank you.
Fathers Day is the Sunday that we seek contributions to the Church World Service Tools. This fund equips families worldwide with the tools needed to build brighter futures: rebuilding homes in Haiti destroyed by the earthquake, household latrines in Vietnam and clean water systems in Kenya and Tanzania. These are just a few of the projects these donations help fund.  
For example, $5 for a hand saw, $11 for 15 concrete blocks, $47 for a support column for a house in Haiti, $50 for construction training for two people in Moldova.

It’s here. I have the black fly bite mark to prove that we have entered Spring. As I write this, it is still cool and cloudy and that is spring in the Adirondacks.

First, I wish to welcome back our snow birds to the North Country. We have missed you and are glad to see your safe return.

In a few weeks on the 17th we will be joyously receiving the Marlow family into our congregation, followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall. On that day, we hope to also get a congregational photo so I hope you will join us and bring your smiles.
The following week has us beginning our summer program with three worship service opportunities. Our regular service will be led by Michael Martin with contemporary music. If interested you will find me preaching at Chapel Island in Upper Saranac Lake. The boat leaves from the end of Old Dock Road beginning at 10:15 and all are welcome. On Sunday evening, we will kick off our Bloomingdale Summer Services at 7:00 pm at our lovely church in Bloomingdale. These will be praise and prayer services with songs and a message. If you can’t make one, we hope to see you at one of the others.

Throughout the summer months we will be holding the two services to greet new people and to help others to have worship in these very busy and active months. I am overjoyed at the reopening of the Bloomingdale church and the opportunity to bring a visible Methodist presence back into that community.

One further challenge is with our Lutheran brothers and sisters. On the 24th of June, an already busy day, the Lutheran congregation will be moving their worship service to 8:15 on Sundays. This will be a weekly communion service and bring both congregations into closer proximity for introduction and fellowship. I am excited by this change as well in that we show that as a congregation we can adjust, explore and change as needed. A dynamic church is a fruitful church.

I wish you all a joyous summer as we worship together, pray together, work together, laugh together and play together.
 
Pastor Eric

Rev. Edith "Edie" Poland

Word has been received of the passing of Rev. Edith "Edie" Poland, pastor of the Keeseville and Harkness UM churches. Please keep her family in your prayers as well as her church families. Her passing was sudden and unexpected and we give thanks for her life, her love and her ministry. Well done thou good and faithful servant.

To our friends in Harkness and Keeseville, Our hearts go out to you on the passing of your Pastor and friend, Pastor Edie. We know from experience the sadness and grief you must be feeling. Please know that we are holding you all in prayer that God will surround you with His love, peace and comfort and walk with you in this journey. May the good memories sustain you as you move forward. Peace and blessings!

FROM THE PASTOR’S PEN – AN AMBITIOUS SUMMER
            Spring has certainly taken its time to get here this year.  But I think we have finally turned the corner.  I wanted to take a few minutes and fill you in on some of the things that are occurring and will be happening.
            It is hard to believe but we are coming up on the one year anniversary of my worshiping with you here at First United Methodist Church.  It has been a wonderful experience and a joy to be part of such a great group of fellow Christians.  I know I have made my share of mistakes and still have a lot to learn but I am grateful for your patience, prayers and friendship.
            As we continue our Wednesday dinners, Bible Studies, UMW and the men's Group and the hundred other things we are involved in, I ask for your help on some new initiatives. We will also need your patience as continue working on the building and wrestle with planning for the next 100 years. I think we will take it a day at a time but we will plan ahead and work well together.
            Over the next month and into the summer we are going to be doing a few events to remind Saranac Lake and others what this church is made of.  On May 20th, Pentecost Sunday, we will meet with our Lutheran Cousins and have a joint worship service to remind us that we are all one family.  On the 26th we will be hosting a Veterans appreciation breakfast (open for all to attend) to remember, on Memorial Day Weekend that our freedom of faith is dearly purchased and never to be taken for granted.  I hope we will make these annual events.  Later, once Summer arrives we will be having Sunday evening services in Bloomingdale as part of our outreach and to remind that community that we have not really left.
            All of these things are part of our missions and outreach ministries for Christ. There will be some more opportunities and chances to fellowship and participate but we are moving ahead with these.  I ask for your prayers for these initiatives and your blessings. I believe we will have a great summer together and that we are truly blessed.
 
In Christ, Pastor Eric
 
SPIRITUAL BUILDING AND SHAPING
               As we are now in the midst of the Easter I have been thinking about the need for us to review some of the steps for making our spirits strong and all unified with Christ.  This will begin this month and be a series of thoughts to look at ones walk with Christ.
               Many Christians read the bible, pray, contemplate and use the Christian values in their daily walk.  These are the main building blocks in Spiritual formation and key to shaping the faith needed to survive in an often crazy world.  Building takes time and effort and is in many ways like physical exercise, you get out of it what you put into it. We know we are saved through Christ but what does that mean?  This will help you learn and receive some answers.
               For those who are seeking to learn more about their faith and feel overwhelmed by the Bible and some of these other things, faith formation can be more intimidating than IKEA furniture. It can be hard to follow and very confusing. So for this month I am going to give a few simple steps to help get things in order.  Building up our spirits will require tools and time. These steps will assist you in
             
First: Get rid of your assumption that you need religion.  This might sound crazy but it's not. What you need is a strong relationship with God.  Our corporate faith and fellowship is a religious response to our relationship with God.  Religion grows from faith, faith does not really grow from religion.  The fact that we come together in fellowship and in service is a response to the call of the spirit as we learn and grow together.  Just as I need a running partner to get me out on days when I feel lazy, I need those around me in faith to move me spiritually and get me motivated.
               Secondly: Get to know the tools you need for building.  Many of us think that faith is intuitive and in some ways it is, but not always. The master planner, God, gave us some very good directions and tools for life but we tend not to use them and or get distracted. The first tool is the Gospel.  If you read nothing else in the Bible, read the book of Mathew. This is the foundation of faith in Christ. The old testament and other books are important but the old Testament is a preamble and the Epistles additions to the Gospel message.  The other Gospels of Luke, Mark and John tell the story too and should be read but start with Matthew. This is the tool you need to set you spiritual self up. 
               As you witness Jesus, listen to His message, fell His confidence follow His advice and see His relationship with the Father. Let His compassion touch your heart and see His view of the world.
               Thirdly: Take time to pray.  This is the help desk for all Christians.  As we build we, we check with the boss and get advice and direction.  Confidence without having done anything is a false confidence.  Thinking about things is not doing them.  Though there is time for contemplation there is a need to engage in prayer of conversation and listening.  It's best done without distraction and with dedicated energy. Prayer can be a conversation, emotive reflection, meditation on a thought or scripture or waiting in silence.  My point is that if you're open to the spirit it will come.           
Here is a start for those wishing to get into the Spirit. Remember we are building for eternity, we are stewards and workers for the kingdom and called to be heirs. It makes sense to be about His business and for our future.
 
Pastor Eric
 
VETERAN’S  APRECIATION BREAKFAST
Pastor Eric is planning this. For details, see the Pastor’s Report below. If you are a veteran please plan to attend. If you know a veteran, encourage them to join with others on this day of recognition. And, above all, pass the word!!!
 
WORDS OF WISDOM
God’s love for us is greater than anything we will face today or any day.
A heart that is focused on others will not be consumed by self. When I think more of others, I lose my thoughts about myself in other people and their needs.
Good morning, Lord. Let me begin this new day full of trust in you. Bless all my words and actions. Let me embrace your will as my guide, as my standard of right and wrong. Thy will be done, Lord on Earth. Amen
A world in darkness needs the light of Jesus. Help me, Lord, to reflect your light into the world around me today. May all I say or do bear witness to your light and truth. May others see how wonderful you are. Everyone can do something to make the world better – we can let Christ shine through us.
           
THANK YOU!   Are you enjoying those new pew cushions? There are several people you should thank for them.  First, they are the result of someone reading our newsletter, noting the price estimate and making a memorial donation in the name of David V. Pecora. Second is Charlotte Hall for contacting the person in Lake Clear who made the kneeling cushions at the communion rail and asking her to make cushions for ALL the pews, sanctuary, balcony and choir loft.
 
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN - The women met on April 12. They are canvassing members for ideas on new missions and programs they would like. Discussed the Rummage Sale and the Spring tea at DeChantel on May 20. The Lutheran women have been invited.
 
TRUSTEES – The trustees met on April 11 and elected officers, Marlene Martin is the chair, Marilyn Gillespie is vice-chair and Secretary. Jim Pierson gave an excellent presentation on funds we have available for different projects. Meetings will now be  at 6:45 on the first Thursday of the month. Jim Halla, Elwin Hall, and Josh
 
Marlow will work on the annual accessibility audit on 4/19 in the afternoon. In the process, they will look for potential projects. We need to purchase a new sump pump that will pump really hot water. Cornerstone will be invited to address furnace code issues and other recommendations made by the boiler inspector.
The fuel tank will be replaced this spring. Work has been done on the organ, and the trustees approved a 3-day trip for additional work this summer when we won’t have to heat the church. 
 
PASTORS REPORT
Sunday services are going well.
Mission and Outreach – will break down into 3 categories. Hospitality, Missions, and  Outreach
There will be a Veteran’s breakfast on May 26, gathering at 8:30 am, with breakfast at 9:00 and them a speaker around 9:30.  There will be an opening ceremony with the American flag, VFW flag and American Legion flags.  We should also put something in the paper, produce flyers and involve the local groups. I am doing some counseling and spiritual direction. We need to plan a church picnic. 
 
SARANAC LAKE ECUMENICAL FOOD PANTRY
May is peanut butter and jelly month. Please add your donation to the red shopping cart at the back of the sanctuary.
 
REMEMBER WITH A CARD         
Rose Nadon: Neighborhood House, PO Box 46, Keene Valley, NY 12943
Genevieve Clarkson: Champlain Valley Senior Community, 10 Gilliland Lane, Willsboro, NY 12996
Bruce Barnard: P.O. Box 246, Rainbow Lake, NY 12976.
Margaret Turnbull:  3873 Burnup Road   Black River, NY  13612  
DID YOU KNOW…? Your church can be found on Facebook. Just go to First United Methodist Saranac Lake.  (complete with capital letters and spaces.) When the page comes up, click on “like.”
FINANCE – Pledge and identified giving along with plate offering is $3,897 better than last year.
We received $7,900 to cover the cost of the purchasing pew cushions for the sanctuary, balcony and choir loft. So far we have spent $6,050.
We received $1,845 as a use donation for the Community Supper.
Salaries are $3,439 less than last year.
Our fuel expense in January is $1,986 greater than last year reflecting cold weather and increased cost per gallon.
Music and the cost for the hand bells is $665 over last year.
Repairs and Maintenance is $2,254 is over last year  including $497 spent on the exterior of the building, $872 on the heating system, $538 on the lift and $213 on the men’s bathroom.
We continue to be current on our Ministry Shares payments.
Our current income is $5,010 under our current expenses at this time. Some of this is normal as our heating bills are higher during the winter months but last year income was $10,509 under current expenses at this time so are ahead of last year. 
 
NOTES ON OUR VARIOUS FUNDS as of March 31, 2018
The capital fund has $64,144.02, the Trustees fund has $6,775.72, the Roof fund has $37,430.58 and the Organ Fund has $10,633.00. To date, we have received $745 for the Fuel Fund.
 
SPECIAL OFFERINGS COMING
Each year, our United Methodist Women coordinate these offerings. Checks should be made payable to the UMW. Special envelopes may be found in the back, where the Sunday bulletins are found. Please place your donations into one of marked envelopes. If you want credit on your annual giving statement, please include your envelope number. Thank you.
Mothers Day is also a Sunday in which we ask for donations to Church World Service Blankets. Each blanket is $10 and the blankets can be a vital resource for someone needing a little support, warmth and encouragement.
 
 
Fathers Day is the Sunday that we seek contributions to the Church World Service Tools. This fund equips families worldwide with the tools needed to build brighter futures: rebuilding homes in Haiti destroyed by the earthquake, household latrines in Vietnam and clean water systems in Kenya and Tanzania. These are just a few of the projects these donations help fund.  
For example, $5 for a hand saw, $11 for 15 concrete blocks, $47 for a support column for a house in Haiti, $50 for construction training for two people in Moldova.
 
NOMINATIONS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT REPORT FOR 2018
At our Charge Conference on April 4, the following report for 2018 was approved.
Local Lay Leader:       Bill Kelting/ Michael Martin 

Lay Member to Annual Conference:  Bill Kelting 
Lay Member Reserve:            Marilyn Gillespie

Church Council:  Chair:  Barbara Halla      Members at Large:  Ruth Woodward

Church Council Secretary:    Marilyn Gillespie

Worship Committee:  Kathy Cross, Ruth Damp, Mary Kent, Michael Martin, Betsy Pond, Nancy Roberts

Trustees:        
Class of 2018    Grant Besio,  Betsy Pond, John Wamsganz
Class of 2019   Elwin Hall, James Halla,  Anita Meserole
Class of 2020  Marilyn Gillespie,  Josh Marlow, Marlene Martin
                                                                                                                                         Staff Pastor Parish Relations Committee:
Class of 2018 Jennifer Tuggey            
Class of 2019 Barbara Halla, Cathy LeBlanc, Grant Besio
Class of 2020  Chair:  Travis McElyea,  Ruth Woodward, Linda Pierson

Nominations & Leadership Development Committee:
Class 2018 Ruth Damp,  Marlene Martin                        
Class of 2019  Grant Besio, Eileen Leavitt,  Barbara Halla
Class of 2020  Marilyn Gillespie,  Diane Kelting, Alan Roberts
                                                                                                                       
Membership Secretary:            Claudia Wamsganz
 
Historian: Cindy Smith                                                          
Finance Committee/Stewardship:        All Chairs         Financial Secretary: vacant
                                                                    Mitch Smith               Chair: Jim Pierson
Treasurer:   Bruce Barnard                  Auditor:  Steve Pridell                       
Parsonage Committee:           
Chair:  Charlotte Hall, Marilyn Gillespie, Diane Kelting, Betsy Pond

Christian Education:   Wendy Foley, Mike Foley, Pastor Eric Olsen

Evangelism, Outreach and Mission: Travis McElyea, Nancy Roberts, Virginia Santy, Jen Tuggey, Travis McElyea

Happy Easter! We are now in what is my favorite season of the Christian calendar. I have great child-hood memories of new pants, shirt and tie for Easter Sunday and the expectation of an Easter Egg Hunt at my grandparents’ house. The family would get together and eat in an overcrowded kitchen with uneven tables shoved together with the noise of too many voices talk-ing at once. I hope you have hold of some special memories too.
Little did I know, as I sat in the midst of my cousins and the grownups that there were the deep cares of the world just outside the kitchen door. Youth can be such a special time of confidence, ignorance and unbridled joy. In the protection of those you love, it is easier to deal with the uncertainties of life. When I look back at photos of those years, things seem much simpler.
In the spring of 2018 the world seems to be moving much faster and to be more unsettled, but I doubt it. We as a nation and the world itself have gone time and again to limits of insanity and conflict. The storms come through in forms of new technology, philosophy and some form of idealism that tends, in human hands, to cause great distress and destruction. Like a hurricane or northeaster, trouble and crisis come, making life more difficult and uncertain. It is easy to get discouraged.
There are two things I wish to remind you of this Holy Season. The first is that God would have us re-member the joys of youth and to accept Him with the faith of a child. In the uncertainties of the future, we are always within His presence, at His table, receiving His attention. The second, is that even when the storms hit and we face the wind, snow and hardships, the sun still shines above the storm. The storms of life are not eternal. God is, Christ is, and in Him we are.
Finally, let us remember that Jesus went to the cross and beyond by never losing faith. He faced His storm and got through it. He didn’t get bitter, cynical or jaded by the experience. As a matter of fact, He became all the more loving. This Easter season and its meaning defines us as Christians. We listen to, and seek, a higher understanding and authority. It defines our behavior and shapes our responses to the craziness just outside the door. Many will look at us and not understand why we do what we do but that’s ok. Many didn’t understand Jesus nor why He did what He did. We do things differently because we listen with open ears, see with open eyes and seek with open hearts. We know a deep and fundamental truth has been shared with us giving us the power to see beyond the storms and to never lose faith.
Once again, Happy Easter!
                                             Pastor Eric

CHARGE CONFERENCE
After several delays, the date is finally set. At this meeting the leadership for 2018 will be approved. You will also be asked to vote (using a paper ballot) for the class of trustees for 2020. The candidates selected by the Leadership Committee are: Marilyn Gillespie, Marlene Martin and Josh Marlow.
 
THANK YOU
We received a thank you note signed by Maggie and Vance Mortensen. It reads as follows:
“Thank you very much for your continuing support of Grace Pantry with donations of personal care products, especially diapers and baby wipes. On average 40 families come through Grace Pantry each week – your donations really help!”
 
PLAN AHEAD!
The large 2018 planning calendar is in the Teller’s Room. Please fill-in any and all meeting dates. Our Lutheran friends use the calendar as well, and filling it in will help avoid conflicts of use. Please use the markers provided next to the calendar. Thank you.
 
WORDS OF WISDOM
God is always able and available to help us because God is always accessible because He is always with us.
Instead of telling God how big your problems are, tell your problems how big God is.
God fills our heart with peace when we pour out our heart to Him.
Focusing on the good things in our lives may benefit our bodies, but directing our thanks to God benefits our souls. The act of giving thanks causes us to recognize the One who provides our blessings.
Compassion is understanding the troubles of others, coupled with an urgent desire to help.
Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.
Begin each day with confidence because God is with you. Realizing His constant presence will help you see more of Him in the events of your life. His love and strength will keep you going.
The cycle of giving starts with the gracious giving of God, God’s ultimate gift of his son; then the generous giving of those who have received from God, then the giving of thanks from those who have received from God, through others.
It’s easy to let discouragement sap our energy and joy. God can help us reject all agents of discouragement from our lives and give us comfort and strength.
People are watching the way we act more than they are listening to what we say.
We fight the sin of prejudice when we let God’s love for us find full expression in the way we love and treat each other. Looking up to Jesus prevents us from looking down on others.
        
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN
The next meeting is April 12. Remember, the Rummage Sale is fast approaching. Many women are needed to help set-up and sell.
    
SARANAC LAKE ECUMENICAL FOOD PANTRY
April is pasta and sauces month. Please add your donation to the red shopping cart at the back of the sanctuary.
 
CANS & BOTTLES RETURN – A REQUEST
Nickles return center has informed me that due to a concern about black mold, cans & bottles must be rinsed and drained. Otherwise, they will be unable to accept them. Please help me out by taking care of this before you place items in the box at the back of the sanctuary.
 
REMEMBER WITH A CARD
Rose Nadon: Neighborhood House, PO Box 46, Keene Valley, NY 12943
Genevieve Clarkson: Champlain Valley Senior Community, 10 Gilliland Lane, Willsboro, NY 12996
Bruce Barnard: P.O. Box 246, Rainbow Lake, NY 12976.
Margaret Turnbull:  3873 Burnup Road   Black River, NY  13612  

DID YOU KNOW…? Your church can be found on Facebook. Just go to First United Methodist Saranac Lake.  (complete with capital letters and spaces.) When the page comes up, click on “like.”

CHURCH COUNCIL  
Worship: There is a plan to open the Bloomingdale Church during July and August for a Folk service at 6:30. (Songs, reading, short message, prayer)
Several items from the Pastor’s report merit reprinting here:
Evangelism, Outreach and Missions is one his emphases (Veteran’s breakfast).
Eric would like to explore little vignettes on the local radio station.
Eric plans to invite the Lutherans to join us at least two times each year.
Some communication hasn’t been working the way we would like. When Eric is away, no one should be bothering Claudia, the Church Council chair is the person to go to.
 
FINANCE –
Pledge and identified giving along with plate offering is $2,666 better than last year.
Special Appeals for fuel at $655 is $540 better than last year.
We received $7,900 to cover the cost of the purchasing pew cushions for the sanctuary, balcony and choir loft. A down payment of $4,050 has been spent.
Salaries are $2,732 less than last year.
Our fuel expense in January is $2,325 greater than last year reflecting cold weather and increased cost per gallon.
Repairs and Maintenance is over last year by $673 with the largest item being work on the lift totaling $490.
We continue to be current on our Ministry Shares payments.
Our current income is $4,532 under our current expenses at this time. This is normal as our heating bills are higher during the winter months but last year income was $7,003 under current expenses at this time so are ahead of last year. 
 
NOTES ON OUR VARIOUS FUNDS as of February 28, 2018
Organ Fund  $10,608. Year to date donations to the Fuel Fund totaled $655.00