LIGHTING THE WAY TO A WONDERFUL LIFE Christmas Eve ...

Hudson United Methodist Church Volume 5  DEC. 2012 Issue 5

Additional information can be found on: www.umchudson.org.
Monthly Dialogue Reaching Members and Friends of Hudson United Methodist Church.

Mission Statement

To meet and accept all people wherever they are on their spiritual journey and to inspire them in their everyday lives through
Jesus Christ by providing opportunities to encounter spiritual growth and fulfillment through authentic worship,
meaningful friendships, and inspirational outreach experiences.

LIGHTING THE WAY TO A WONDERFUL LIFE
Christmas Eve Candlelight Services

Monday, December 24, 2012
4:00 PM, 7:00 PM, & 10:45 PM

Christmas Day Worship Experience
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
10:00 AM

Come For A FREE Community Christmas Day Dinner
From 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

2. The Musings. December 2012

The Art of Christmas In this Issue

Wilferd Peterson, The New Book of the Art of Living Activities & Events Pages 11-14
Birthdays Page 22
How can we best keep Christmas? Christmas Information Pages 1,2
 By following the star on an inward journey to Behtlehem and Visitation & Caring Pages 4,5
to stand again in awe and wonder before the Babe in a Church Calendar Insert A
manger. Education Pages 8,9
 By rediscovering the kingdom of heaven through the faith and Financial Update Pages 3,4
simplicity of a little child. JOY Fellowship Page 13
 By being still and listening to the angels sing within our Middle School Page 9
hearts. Missions Pages 15-17
 By quietly evaluating our lives according to the Master’s Office Hours Back page
standards as set forth in the Sermon on the Mount.
 By resolving to give ourselves away to others in love, joy, and Prayers for People Page 23
devotion. Remember our Military Page 22
Senior High Update Pages 9,10
Make your preparations SEWMUCHNEED Page 18
‘Advent’-urous Sunday Ministry Update Pages 11,12
Thank You Notes Pages 20,21
Author unknown United Methodist Men Page 15

Advent, the first season of the liturgical year United Methodist Women Pages 18,19

includes the four weeks prior to December 25, Worship Update Pages 6,7

dates from the fourth century when it lasted 40 Year-End Giving Pages 10

days and included fasting much like Lent.

Advent is from Adventus, Latin for “coming,”
referring to Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, and also his second coming. The traditional colors of

Advent are purple for penitence or blue for hope. Observing Advent is a meaningful,

adventurous way to prepare for Christmas. Buy or make an Advent wreath and use

candles of your choice; four blue, four purple, or three blue or purple and one pink. If you
have a fifth spot, add one white Christ candle. During meals or devotions, light only one candle the first week. Add

another for each new week (the pink candle traditionally marks the third week), concluding celebration of Christ’s

light coming into the world.

NEW Advent Study
You are invited to a Bible Study organized around the movie,
“It’s a Wonderful Life,” directed by Frank Capra. The study is facilitated

by Pastor Bruce. He will be using film clips from the movie followed by
group discussion. The four-week study runs Wednesdays from

November 28 to December 19 at 10:00 AM in the Conference Room.
The study will be repeated Sunday mornings at 9:15 AM
December 2 - 23 in the Conference Room.

Address your questions to Pastor Bruce.

December 2012. The Musings. 3

HUMC Financial Update

By Randy Stalker and
Members of the Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is committed to keeping you informed regarding the financial health of your church.
Here is a snapshot of where we stand with our General Fund through October of this year:

Income: total 2012 income was projected to increase about 2% over 2011 in total based on pledges and
historical experience. After a nice increase in Income over the past couple of months, we unfortunately need to
report that our Income for October was down 37% from last year, only 57% of budget. YTD Income is now
$25,152 below last year and $27,551 below budget.
Expenses: the projected budget for 2012 is an 8% increase over where we finished 2011. Expenses in October
were down 2% from last year and 81% of budget. The reduction in YTD expenses is mainly from Personnel
costs.
Bottom Line: October General Fund Income was below Expenses by $6,739. We are still on the positive side of
the ledger YTD, but we went backwards quite a bit in October.
Projection: The current projections indicate we could miss our budgeted Income by as much as $33,000 for the
total year. For this reason, the Committees are holding their expenses to 87% of budget for the year.
Just a reminder that all donations that wish to be credited for 2012 must be postmarked by December 31, 2012.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact any member of the Finance Committee, or Randy Stalker, Finance
Chairperson, at [email protected].
Thank you for your gifts and your prayers!
The Finance Committee of the Hudson United Methodist Church

Second Request for a Service Opportunity!
By Randy Stalker

As mentioned last month, the annual audit was completed for the Hudson United Methodist Church, and the
recommendations were presented at the last Finance Committee meeting. One of the recommendations was
regarding the number of offering counters that we have. We currently have 2 people that have been dedicated
counters for many years. However, when one of them is sick or injured, it makes it very difficult to maintain proper
financial procedures. Therefore, one of the recommendations from the audit is to increase the number of
counters.

Continued on page 4

4. The Musings. December 2012

Service Opportunity continued from page 3
Are you interested in being a counter for the church? This is an activity that takes only about an hour a week and
requires a team of two people. If 4-6 responsible people are willing to share this task, each person would only
have to count a maximum of two times a month. Skills required include a comfort in counting currency, ability to
enter dollar amounts into a very simple spreadsheet, and the maturity to not share confidential information. This
task can be done at a time that works best for your busy schedule. Our preference is that the collection is
counted, entered, and delivered to the bank anytime between Sunday afternoon and Wednesday evening.
After my plea in this newsletter last month, we have had two people step forward to help: one on a full time basis,
and one on a part-time basis. However, we could use a few more people to lighten the load. Please contact
Randy Stalker, Finance Chairperson, at 715-222-5833, or [email protected], if you are willing to consider this
opportunity of counting our offering.

Caring and Visiting Ministries
Welcome Our Newest Members

By Rev. Dr. Ruwal Freese
Director of Visitation and Caring Ministries

John and Alice Miller Katy Rugg Forest and Heather Sage

John and Alice Miller are transferring to us from a United Methodist Church in Las Vegas. They were also active in
a United Methodist Church in Niagara Falls, New York before moving to Hudson. James Miller, John’s father, was
a United Methodist pastor in Wisconsin. He presided at the wedding of Mel and Louise Hermansen over forty
years ago. John and Alice have three children, Renee, Jade, and Jake. The Millers want a church with an active
children’s program after being in churches where their children were the only children.

Katy Rugg lives right across the street from the church. She says that it was a “God thing,” an example of how
God is working in her life. Many of you heard her witness to God’s healing power at our healing service on
Sunday, November 11th. Her significant other is Jeff Barthman. She has one son, a four year old named Rogan.

Forest and Heather Sage live in North Hudson. They were seeking a church where their daughter (expected in
January) would be able to grow in Christian faith. Heather grew up attending the Rosedale MN, United Methodist
Church and is transferring from there. Forest’s work is installing home entertainment centers. Our tech committee
is interested in his experience and skill. Forest joined by re-affirmation of faith.

Caring Ministry continued on page 5

December 2012. The Musings. 5

Caring Ministry continued from page 4

Caring Cards

Directed by: Vicki Bolton
Caring Ministries Lead for Homebound and Special Situations
In continuation of our caring ministries work, caring cards will be available for signature, or you can write a brief
note on Sunday, December 9 between worship services in the Narthex. The recipients of these caring cards
have expressed that they are deeply appreciative of the concern and sincerity of the congregation! Please take a
short amount of your time to stop by the caring card signature table on Sunday, December 9 and write a brief
note to our congregational members and friends who are in need of support.
Thanks be to God for our love and caring of others,
Vicki Bolton
Caring Ministries Leader for Homebound and Special Situations

Christmas Concerts Coming Up

Members of our church or church staff are making music for you to
enjoy during the Advent Season.

 See Rev. Dr. Ruwal Freese to purchase tickets for the St.
Croix Chordsmen Barbershop Chorus Christmas Show on Saturday,
December 1 at 2:00 PM at Trinity Lutheran in Stillwater, MN and at
7:30 PM at the Guardian Angels Church in Oakdale, MN. Tickets are
$10.

 Several of our vocalists sing with the Phipps Festival Chorus.
You are invited to their concert on Saturday, December 8 at 3:00 or
7:00 PM at the Phipps Center. The cost is $22 for adults and $15 for students and youth.
 Hudson High School Peace Holiday Concerts are Sunday, December 16 at 5:00 & 7:30 PM and
Monday, December 17 at 7:30 PM . Come and hear, “Peace 2012 Home for the Holidays”, by HHS
Choirs and The River City Symphony Orchestra. Ticket Prices: $8 for adults and $5 for Students.
Tickets go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, December 4 from 4 - 7 PM.
 If you are presenting a Christmas Concert, please let the church office know so that we can notify your
friends and church family through the bulletin, and e-musings. Email to [email protected] or
call 715.386.3921. Announcement deadline is Tuesday at noon.

6. The Musings. December 2012

Worship Ministry Update

Make your Advent/Christmas worship really special! Take a look at the topics and texts for the month of

December. Read the scripture verses ahead of time in preparation for worship.
(The scripture and topics are subject to change)

The topics and texts for the month of December are:

Date: Worship Event: Topic: Text:

December 2 First Sunday of Advent First Things First Luke 21: 25-36
December 9 Second Sunday of Advent Repentance Is Relationship! Luke 3: 1-6

December 16 Third Sunday of Advent What Shall We Become? Luke 3: 7 - 18

December 23 Fourth Sunday of Advent Mary’s Magnificent Song Luke 1: 39 – 55

December 24 Christmas Eve Bethlehem: Where Extremes Meet Luke 2: 1-14
December 25 Christmas Day John 1: 1-14

December 30 First Sunday after Christmas The Work of Christmas Luke 2: 41-52

If you would like to serve during worship as a liturgist, usher, or greeter, please sign up in the hallway across from

the Kitchen. Your help is greatly appreciated.
We also provide pastoral visits in the hospital or in a crisis situation. In case of a pastoral emergency, please

contact the on-call pastor: Pastor Bruce Stunkard. You may reach Pastor Stunkard at 715.220.0950.

In case of a financial emergency, please contact The Source at: 715.386.1300.

Christian Community Home Worship Service
We provide a worship service at CCH every Sunday at 11:00 AM. Please take a moment to thank the following
individuals for serving in November. If you are interested in serving at CCH, please contact Larry Parfitt.
Schedule for December is:

Date: Speaker: Pianist:
December 2 Paul Bourget Lisa Bourget
December 9 Robert Enloe
December 16 John E. Thomas
December 23 Larry Parfitt
December 30 Faith Kelly

Choir Update

By Cory Westgard

Greetings!

The Holidays are just around the corner, and so our choir's music begins to return
to beautiful and festive Christmas songs. I would like to extend an invitation to join
us for choir rehearsals Wednesday nights from 6:30-7:30 PM. The more choir
members we have, the more exciting and challenging music we can do. We look
forward to seeing you!

Worship continued on page 7

December 2012. The Musings. 7

Worship continued from page 6

Worship Committee Update

By Adele Dolan
Worship Committee Chairperson

The greens are hung and the deer hunters are done for another year. Happy December! I pray that the weeks of
Advent and Christmas will be joyous ones for all of you, and that you will find this year's celebration to be as
meaningful as ever for you, if not more so. If some traditions have changed or have been let go, I pray that you
will embrace the opportunity to establish new traditions, and that any bittersweetness of the season will not
discourage you but instead deepen your appreciation of the true meaning of Christmas.

Please include worship in your holiday season. Many of you will be traveling to be with family, others will have
family traveling to Hudson. We welcome everyone, especially on Christmas Eve. ( worship at 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM
and 10:45 PM) This will be an interesting year with worship on Sunday before Christmas, worship on Christmas
Eve (Monday), and worship Christmas Day (Tuesday worship at 10:00 AM) prior to the Christmas Day dinner at
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM. We can experience some great bonding time this year!

Let us all reflect on the wonder of the coming of the Christ Child:
"O, Holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray.
Cast out our sin and enter in; be born in us today."

Merry Christmas!

Adele Dolan
Worship Committee

What makes Christmas happen?

Anonymous

What makes Christmas ‘happen’ for you? Where does the joy of the season come alive in you? Is it in the carols,
the celebrations, the candlelight services, the music of the Advent season? Perhaps you find it in shopping and
gift-giving. Maybe you see the love of the season in the sparkling eyes of a child or feel it in a loved one’s hug.

Whatever it is, during this holiday season with all its frenzied festivities, stop and remember that night in the
stable: those mingled smells of animals and hay and the pain and subsequent joy in the birth of one small child.
Breathe deep and feel with Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, and the angels. Feel the birth of Jesus. What is it to
experience such joy, such peace? Verbally express to someone close to you what the birth of Christ means to you
at this point in your life. Be joyful! Experience God’s love and peace.

8. The Musings. December 2012

Don’t Miss the Children’s Christmas Musical

“Get in Line for Christmas”
Sunday, December 16 at the 10:30 AM Worship Service

By Sue Warnke
Education Committee Member
Our practices for the Christmas Program, “Get in Line for Christmas,” are held on December 2 & 9, in
Salvation Rock, the last 15 minutes of Sunday school class. This includes any youth from pre-school through
eighth grade. We will have two Saturday practices from 9:00 to 11 AM on December 8 and on the 15. On
Sunday, December 16, there will be no Sunday school. Instead, we will be getting ready for the program at the
regular time of 9:15 AM. Please put the December dates on your calendar. More information will be coming in
regards for help with sets, costumes, etc. You can contact Adele Dolan regarding any questions.

Sunday School December Rotation
Schedule

By Sue Warnke
Education Committee Member
December Rotation will be reviewing Matthew and Luke’s “gospel of fulfillment.” Only two of the four gospels use
the birth of Jesus as an event that was significant in the life of Jesus. Matthew and Luke gospels are the starting
point for the fulfillment of the prophecies about Jesus. Both gospel writers point to the significance of a birth so
full of mystery that the child will surely lead a life that is anything but ordinary. There are very unique elements in
both gospels which were written to a Jewish audience rather than to a Gentile audience. The only detail they
share is that Jesus was born in Bethlehem. From the time of David, there had been great expectations among the
Jewish people that God would raise up a Messiah. His birth was the fulfillment of many of the prophecies, and
Jesus would go on to show himself as Messiah in his ministry, his death, and resurrection.

Education continued on page 9

December 2012. The Musings. 9

Education continued from page 8

Cornerstones Rotation Material

December 2, 9: Lesson: Messiah
December 16: Christmas Program

January 6,13,20: Lesson: Jesus, Body of Christ
January 27: Children’s Mission Project

February 3,10,17; Lesson: Beatitudes
February 24; Children’s Mission Project

March 3,10,17: Lesson: Test of Faith Easter Music practice
March 24; Children’s Mission Project

March 31; Easter, music practice @ 10 AM

April 7, 14, 21; Walk to Emmaus
April 28; Children’s Mission Project

May 5,12; Lesson: Pentecost
May 19: Last day of Sunday School

You are invited to a Middle School gathering

Pastor Bruce is leading a Wednesday Night Middle School gathering for 6-8 graders and their friends. They meet
every Wednesday from 6:15 – 7:30 PM in the Conference Room. The focus is on preparing kids for affirming their
baptism (Confirmation) in 2014, and for church membership. Contact Pastor Bruce for details at
[email protected].

Senior High Update

By Sue Lee
Senior High Youth Director
As the year is almost over we have to stop and wonder where the time has gone
and what we have done to share the love of Christ.
Throughout the year the Senior High Youth have done many things to connect with others. Some of those things
are very evident in the month of November and December. On November 28, the senior high will be ringing bells
at Family Fresh for the Salvation Army, on December 2, there will be the usual breakfast, and on December 8 we
will be at Family Fresh bagging groceries.

Senior High Youth continued on page 10

10. The Musings. December 2012

Senior High Youth continued from page 9
Every year the high school students bake cookies for the local fire department and hospital. This year we will be
adding the city workers, after which we plan to help our senior parishioners decorate their apartments. If you
would like some help please let us know, we will do our best to get to you. We are baking cookies on Saturday,
December 15 at 1:00 PM and plan to deliver the cookies on Wednesday, December 19. We are also helping at
the Grace Place Christmas party on December 16.
As the year ends and a new one begins, we would like to thank all of you for the support you have shown in the
past, and for your interest in the future.
Be sure to let us know if there is any way we can help, or anything you would like to see done. The High
Schoolers are always here to help in any way they can.
Have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Sue Lee,the Senior High Youth, and our volunteers John Scherf and David Schick

Year-End Giving

All contributions to HUMC that you wish to be credited for 2012 taxes must be
postmarked by December 31, 2012.

Thank you, Beth Schmitz

Reminder of the Video cast of Sunday’s Worship Service
By Bob Pierce
Technology Team Member

If you are unable to attend Sunday worship services you can now take part by watching on
your computer wherever you are! This valuable service is being provided at no cost to the
church by Jon Wekkin.
Just follow these simple instructions to watch the video:
 Bookmark the church website at www.umchudson.org if you have not already done so. While on the
website, spend a few moments enjoying the information available. Thanks to Jeanne Schmidt!
 Click on the site and scroll down to “watch the 10:30 AM service.” It can be watched live, but it is also
archived at the conclusion of the service as well.
 Go to event details on the right side of the screen and select the date you want to watch.
 Select the sound level you want from the video and adjust to the sound level on your computer to the
desired level. Watch in full screen for best viewing. Use your cursor to fast forward or move backward as
much as you wish. This was tried for a few services some time ago; however, the lighting was too dim for
good quality. Thanks to the support of the congregation and the Trustees, the lighting was improved.

December 2012. The Musings. 11

The journey of faith is a life-long process. Adults, like kids, learn and grow through a wide
variety of experiences. Would you like to connect in relationships or grow your faith through
service? Whether you are a first-time guest or a life-long member, everyone is welcome to
join in church activities and events. If you have questions about any of the items listed in the
following pages, you can contact the person listed in the article or speak to any of our pastors
or staff. You may also give the Connecting Booklet found in the Narthex to your family and

friends. Thank you

Sunday Morning Events

Sunday, December 2 First Sunday of Advent

Communion & Anointing Celebration
Communion is celebrated at the 8:00 & 10:30 AM worship service the first Sunday of the month.
The rest of the month, communion is offered only at the 8:00 AM worship service. Grape juice is
used instead of wine. Gluten-free wafers are available on the pedestal near the Pastor.
In the Methodist tradition, we invite all who worship to share in Holy Communion. If you are
visiting, feel free to join us. After receiving communion you may receive anointing with a drop of
unscented olive oil on your forehead or hand. Home Communion is available by request, and by
appointment, with Pastor Bruce and Rev. Dr. Ruwal Freese.

Youth Breakfast
Leave the cooking to us, and the dishes and clean-up too! Let the youth prepare breakfast for you
and your family and friends. The youth prepare breakfast the first Sunday of every month. Don’t

miss a delicious meal in the Fellowship Hall at 9:15 AM. A free-will donation is taken which helps
to off-set the cost of the meal. Any extra funds will go towards future youth events and to the
youth summer mission trip. Hope you can make it. We will make you smile!

UMW Raffle and Take-Home Chili
Unity Circle and UMW are sponsoring a quilt raffle and take-out chilidinner on December 2nd.
Raffle tickets and pre-orders for chili were taken in the Narthex on November 18 and November

25. The chili was sold in one and two quart containers for $5.00 and $8.00 respectively. Just

take home your chili and warm it up! The raffle will be held at 11:45 AM.You need not be
present to win. Continued on page 12

12. The Musings. December 2012

Continued from page 11

Sunday, December 9 Second Sunday of Advent
Forum and Fellowship

Forum and Fellowship meets on the second Sunday of every month in the Fellowship Hall at 9:30
AM. Invite a friend or neighbor! Enjoy either a group discussion or share information on a special
topic. On Sunday, December 9, explore the sounds and sights of Christmas in an exciting new
way. Facilitated by Pastor Bruce.

Sunday, December 16 Third Sunday of Advent
Children’s Musical

Don’t miss “Get in Line for Christmas,” a children’s musical at the 10:30 AM worship service.

Sunday, December 23 Fourth Sunday of Advent

Come and worship the King in preparation for the coming of the birth of Christ.

Sunday, December 30
Baptism

Being baptized on Sunday, December 30 during the 10:30 AM service is Caleb Jon Wekkin, son of Jon
and Jessica Wekkin. Caleb was born on April 17, 2012 in Hudson, Wisconsin. Please extend a warm
welcome to the family

Advent Adult Study Groups meet every Sunday Morning

(Repeated Wednesday, morning, refer to page 2 for dates and times)
Come once, come twice, come as your schedule permits.
Sunday Group - We will be meeting every Sunday at 9:15 AM in the Conference Room beginning
December 2 except on December 9 when we will meet in the Fellowship Hall. The four-week advent
study will look at “It’s a Wonderful Life,” directed by Frank Capra. The study is facilitated by Pastor Bruce.
Each week features readings from the Old Testament Prophets and the Gospel, a brief introduction, and
a short clip from the movie.

GenX & Y Group
The GenX and Y Sunday school class invites all adults in their 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s to join the class this
fall for study and friendship. The class meets in the Points of Interest classroom in the lower level of the
church from 9:15-10:15 AM on Sunday mornings. Topics are selected and led by class members. In
December, we are only meeting one time due to Faith & Forum and then the children's Christmas
concert. We will meet on December 2. It will be a time to center and focus on the true meaning of
Christmas through different avenues such as: reading the Christmas story in the Bible, looking for the
Light of God in the world today in the weekly paper, taking time to read through Christmas Hymns, and
using our creativity through paint/clay/etc. to represent what Christmas means to us. Questions about
GenX & Y can be directed to either Nicole Munro or Susan Amann.
Activities and Events continued on page 13

December 2012. The Musings. 13

Activities & Events: Sunday Mornings continued from page 12

Don’t miss these special events!

Hudson Outreach Meals for Computer
Everyone Lab Open
every
On Thursday, December 6 & 20 at 5:00 PM,
you are invited to stop by for a home-cooked Monday!
meal at Bethel Lutheran Church. Let us cook
your supper! The H.O.M.E. (Hudson Outreach Do you write a Christmas letter and address Christmas
Meals for Everyone) meets every first and third envelopes by hand? Learn a fast way to print labels and
Thursday of the month. Direct your questions to your letters by using our Computer Lab computer and
either Bob or Carol Benish. printer. You will be amazed how fast it is to learn. And it will
free up more time to shop! Suzi Mueller is usually available
Mondays from 1:00-3:00 PM. Feel free to stop by the Click
for Christ Room. If you are interested in a class, drop a note
in Suzi’s mailbox leaving your name, phone or email, and
what classes you'd like to have.

Hudson Food Shelf JOY Fellowship

During the holidays, we expect a little higher The JOY members who have reservations will be traveling to
number of families picking up food. When you Arden Hills, Minnesota for the North Heights Lutheran Church
are at the grocery store, consider purchasing Dinner Theater on Saturday, December 8. They will be seeing
a donation and place it in the donation boxes the musical “It’s a Wonderful Life,” with an evangelical twist. The
at County Market and Family Fresh. Some musical will be true to the original movie that has captured so
ideas of items to purchase are: shampoo, bar many hearts but has an added gospel message.
soap, dish soap, and toothpaste. Any
nonperishable food items are always given a Transportation is provided. Please note it is important that
high priority. those attending be at the church by 12:45 PM on December
8 as we will need to leave the church promptly at 1:00 PM
Thank you to the many people from our so we will arrive for the 2:30 buffet. The musical,”It’s a
church that came to help with the November Wonderful Life” begins at 4:00 PM, when it is over we will board
“Stuff-a-Truck” food drive. Your help was the van and return home. Please let John Tremse or Joyce
appreciated. Johnson know if you have a reservation and will be unable to
attend.
Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!
Direct your questions to either John Tremse or Joyce Johnson.

Special events continued on page 14

14. The Musings. December 2012
Special events continued from page 13

Bring your scissors, paper, and NEWSLETTER REMINDER
ribbon. Your help is needed on
Monday, December 10 to help The next newsletter Musings article deadline for the JANUARY
wrap Giving Tree presents. We will issue is noon on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15th.
meet in the Conference Room
around 10:00 AM. See Sharon Send your ministry or event information to the church office:
[email protected].
Tepper for details.
PLAN ahead. THINK ahead.
THANK YOU!

Book Discussion

You are welcome to come any time.

Come for a particular book, or come every month. We meet the third Sunday of the month from 6:30 – 8:30 PM in
the Conference Room. On DECEMBER 16 we will be discussing, “The Beginner’s Goodbye ”,
by Anne Tyler

“The Beginner’s Goodbye”, is the story of a young man’s story to find himself after many bitter happenings that
change his life and how he perseveres.

“The Beginner’s Goodbye,” is only 197 pages and can be found in the More Library System. Additional
information can be found by typing in the title of the book on the internet.

We readily accept and respect all reactions and responses to the selection. A brochure listing reading selections
can be found at the Information rack in the Narthex.

See either Laura Whitney or Nancy Briske if you have questions about the Book Discussion group.

December 2012. The Musings. 15

Wednesday Morning Koffee Klutch

Men, don’t miss Wednesday morning at 9:00 AM for a great cup of “joe”, conversation, and bakery treats. We
meet in the Kitchen to solve problems and support each other through life’s journeys. You don’t have to dress up,
or even shave, just for us. Come as you are, we won’t mind!

Ecumenical Men’s Group

The Ecumenical Men’s Group will meet on Saturday, December 8 at 7:30 AM
at the First Presbyterian Church, 1901 Vine Street, in Hudson, for breakfast
and a program. Bring a friend and stop in for an enjoyable morning of fellowship with
men of all faiths. Help support each other in our day-to-day lives.

Mission of the Month

By Deb Harmon
Mission Committee Member
The loose-coin December Mission of the Month is the Mujila Falls Agriculture Centre. The Centre is a project
of the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. They serve the Lunda people of NW
Zambia. Rev. Paul Webster and his wife started the Centre in 1995. In 2000, the Chief of the Lunda people
offered the United Methodist Church land, including a river and waterfall, if they would send missionaries to teach
basic agriculture to the people of his chiefdom. His people faced high infant mortality rates and short adult life
spans due to poor diets. Currently there are three missionaries at the Centre and it continues to grow and support
the Lunda people. Last summer, we were fortunate to have Rev. Paul visit our congregation and tell of his
amazing work at the Centre. More information about the Mujila Falls Agriculture Centre can be found on their
website: www.gbgm-umc.org

Missions continued on page 16

16. The Musings. December 2012

Missions continued from page 16

HUMC’S Backpack Schedule for 2012-2013

Handout Green Bags Collect Green Bags Deliver Backpacks
December 9 December 16 December 21
January 6 January 13 January 18
February 3 February 10 February 15
March 3 March 10 March 15
April 7 April 14 April 19
May 5 May 12 May 17

The Giving Tree is up in the Narthex

By Carol Benish
Mission Committee Co-Chair

Think of the joy in the eyes of the children on Christmas when they open the gifts you
have selected for them.

We will be supporting the children of Grace Place, Operation HELP, and the men of
Exodus House.

Just take a card from the tree in the Narthex and purchase the item on it. Return it by
the date noted on the card, which is December 9. Please do not wrap the items, but
place the items under the tree. Be sure to keep the tags with the item so they get to the
right person. If you do not wish to shop, take a monetary donation envelope from the Giving Tree. Make your
check out to HUMC, designate Giving Tree. Place the envelope in the collection plate or in Benish’s mailbox by
December 8. Let’s make this a blessed and joyous Christmas for families in need.

Christmas Day Dinner

By Debbie Harmon
Mission Committee Member

This will be our 5th Christmas Day Dinner to be hosted by you, our congregation, with the help of other
neighbors. Come for a delicious home-cooked meal, music, and fellowship. Make this day even more memorable
for our guests and your family by being a part of this well received day. The dinner is served from 11:30 AM – 1:00
PM in the Fellowship Hall on Tuesday, December 25th. This joyous event needs your support. We will have
envelopes in the narthex for monetary donations to cover the cost of this delicious ham dinner. Even more
important is your help in setting up, helping decorate, serving, greeting, cooking, and just help spreading the joy.
Please watch for the sign-up sheets in the narthex. Direct any questions to Harriet Enloe at 715.386.5652 or
Debbie Harmon at 715.563.3395.

Missions continued on page 17

December 2012. The Musings. 17

Missions continued from page 16

WIMPS V Update

By: Jeanne Schmidt

The WIMPS V trip is now history. We had an exciting time during our week at Midwest Mission Distribution Center
in Chatham, IL. near Springfield. We had 13 people attend this year’s event. A few of the highlights include …

 We worked a total of 275.5 work hours at the Midwest warehouse. Five of the women also worked at the
Hospital Sisters Mission in Springfield on one afternoon for a total of 12.5 hours and five of the men
served at the St. John’s Breadline in Springfield for a total of 15 hours. The total hours worked during the
week was 303 hours.

 We brought 193 pounds of miscellaneous sewn projects and school supplies from HUMC and an
additional 1,183 pounds of school bags and supplies from Messiah Methodist Church in Plymouth, MN.
Thanks to all those who came to church to help us unpack 50 boxes from Messiah down to 23 boxes.
With the 14 boxes from HUMC, we were able to get all of the boxes into three vehicles and down to
Midwest.

 One of the projects we worked on was flood buckets. Some of us washed out buckets that had been
donated from Schwan’s from Marshall, MN. Others of the group worked on cutting plastic to be placed in
the buckets. After that was done, we began filling them for their eventual trip to Hurricane Sandy victims.

 Another project was refurbishing school bleachers that had been donated from a Decatur high school.
The bleachers were made out of Douglas Fir and were being replaced at the school. Midwest welcomed
the donation. This was a $45,000 savings to Midwest plus a great way to recycle. Midwest hopes to make
500 desks from this wood. The guys had to scrape gum from the planks before the project even began.
They then sawed and planed the planks that were 20’ long and 10” wide. On one day, they gathered 6-1/2
garbage cans of sawdust (much of it blew away with the 30 mph winds that day).

 Another project we worked on was putting together a 9,000+ mailing. We groaned a lot and I don’t think
we want to put that on our resumes, but we got the job done.

 During the time we were there, a shipment went out to McAllen, TX. that contained personal dignity kits,
school bags and desks for a total of 16,706 pounds.

 We brought back 64# of fabric for one-handle bags. This may be good news or bad news for
SEWMUCHNEED. We had just finished the last roll of fabric that we had brought back last year. Here we
go again.

On behalf of the WIMPS V group, we would like to thank the congregation and the Mission Committee for their
support of our trip. We are scheduled for WIMPS VI on Sept. 8-14, 2013, WIMPS VII is Sept. 21-27, 2014 and
WIMPS VIII will be Oct. 4-9, 2015. Please think about joining us.

Xmas shopping for UWEZO International

Do you know that filling your gas tank, as well as your stomach, can also help fuel a local nonprofit serving people
in our community and in Kenya? Purchase Kwik Trip Gift Cards through UWEZO International and 10% goes
directly to UWEZO. The gift cards are good for gas, car washes, and most Kwik Trip items. In addition, purchase
Bruegger’s gift cards from UWEZO and 25% goes back to UWEZO. Order cards today by contacting Judy Olson
or UWEZO at 715.760.1882 or email: [email protected].

18. The Musings. December 2012

Women’s Ministry Update

By Kathy Simpson

Did you know SEWMUCHNEED, Unity Circle, Not-So Early Risers, and the Prayer Shawl Ministries are also
under UMW? You can find more information by reading further in the newsletter or contact me or one of the
leaders. We plan to meet at 6:30 quarterly for a half hour before the 7 PM Unity Circle on the first Tuesday in
January and April. On January 8 at 6:30 PM, we will plan for next year, and talk about giving to local missions.
(Watch the newsletter and church bulletin for any date changes and updates.)

Unity Circle and UMW are sponsoring a quilt raffle and take-out chili
dinner on December 2nd. Raffle tickets and pre-orders for chili were taken in the
Narthex on November 18 and November 25. The raffle will be held at 11:45 on
December 2. Don’t forget to pick up your chili order.

SEWMUCHNEED Ministry will
Meet on December 3 at 9:00 AM

By Jeanne Schmidt

Our December meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 3 from 9:00 AM - 3 PM. We will have a
Christmas party during lunch with a “white elephant” exchange. Please bring a wrapped gift that you no longer
need. Join the fun and laughter, and we also will do some sewing (smile). We will be ordering soup and
sandwiches for the festivities.

If you’d like to join the fellowship at one of our meetings, bring your scissors or sewing machines. If you can
sew, cut or tie, please join the fun. We can teach. We continue to have lots of projects on our plates. Come for as
long as you can.

We have packets ready to be sewn. Check out the box in the Fellowship Hall. Thank you to all who help with
this ministry. If you are not already on our e-mail reminder list and would like to be, please contact Jeanne
Schmidt at [email protected].

SEWMUCHNEED … SEW LITTLE TIME

“BLANKETS FOR A BRIGHTER DAY”

We continue to work on tying fleece blankets for Katelyn Baier’s ministry to the Minneapolis
Children’s Hospital. We will be delivering another load of fleece-tied blankets for Katelyn’s ministry, “Blankets for a

Brighter Day.” They were blessed at Sunday’s services on Nov. 18. We hope you enjoy seeing them displayed

over the pews on these Sundays. As of October 10, Katelyn has delivered 600 blankets to the Minneapolis

Children’s Hospital. UMW Program SEWMUCHNEED continued on page 19

December 2012. The Musings. 19

UMW Program SEWMUCHNEED continued from page 18

CHEMO HATS ...

If you know of someone in need of a chemo hat, we have several styles available … some
are knitted and some are made with fabric. If you need a hat for yourself or a friend, please
contact Jeanne Schmidt at [email protected].

Unity Circle News

By Carla Bebault

Unity Circle is a division of the Hudson United Methodist Women. We are a small group of women who meet the
first Tuesday of the month. We will meet again on Tuesday, December 4 at 7:00 PM in the Conference Room.
Any woman who may be interested in joining Unity Circle is invited to attend. If you're interested in trying us out,
contact Carla Bebault.

Not So Early Risers are meeting on December 6
at 9:00 AM

Gals, you are invited to join other women as we discuss a different study from the
Response Magazine for UMW. We try to finish in 30 minutes! Join us on the first
Thursday of every month at the Hudson Bagel Shop. Margie Close is leading the group.
For more information, contact Margie Close.

Prayer Shawl Group Update

Reminder: The Prayer Shawl Group will not be meeting during the month of December. We wish you all a Merry
Christmas and Happy New Year. If you know of someone who would appreciate a prayer shawl, or if you would
like more information about future meetings of the Prayer Shawl group, contact Sue Burmood.

20. The Musings. December 2012

News and Thank you’s

Hello Everyone from Texas! Many Thanks to My Church Family

I received the last newsletter and enjoyed There are not enough words to express my gratitude.
reading it! The sun has been shining and it I received so many cards and personal visits from folks
has been hot, around the 90’s. It’s been when I was recuperating from my surgery, my days were
beautiful. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas. made brighter because of it. Thank you for your caring
God Bless you, Lorraine Barber
thoughts, prayers, cards, and visits. Glenora Berres

WELCOME Stephanie …
We are pleased to announce that Stephanie Stoerzinger has joined the staff of
Hudson United Methodist Church. Stephanie will be working as the Nursery Assistant
Aide during the Sunday school hour under the supervision of Lynn Watson, our Nursery
Coordinator. Stephanie has a work permit and according to the State of Wisconsin and
our insurance company, because of her age, she needs to be supervised by an adult
whenever a child is present.

Stephanie is a freshman at Hudson High School and comes with lots of
babysitting experience for her short life. She is the daughter of Dennis and Melody
Stoerzinger. One of her references was from the Houlton Parent Association where they
report, “she has lots of energy and is able to remain calm when there is chaos.” She has also taken the
babysitting class at the Hudson Hospital and has CPR training. Welcome, Stephanie.

Thank you from Breaking Free …
On behalf of Breaking Free, we would like to thank you for your donation of numerous
pairs of gloves and warm winter items.
We thank you so much for your compassion and dedication to our women and families.
Your generosity and good will make it possible for Breaking Free to continue providing
education, support services, and advocacy to exploited women and girls who desperately
need assistance escaping their violent circumstances. As a 501c3 organization, we are
dependent on public and private funding sources and individual contributions to carry out our important mission.
Your donation will go a long way towards reaching that goal and we are truly grateful.

Midwest Mission Distribution Center …
Thank you for the miscellaneous items that you provided to Midwest Mission
Distribution Center in October. These items will help us provide aid to people who
are experiencing poverty or other devastating events in their lives. Your support
and generosity are greatly appreciated!

The work at the MMDC continues to go well, and the volunteers are kept busy with
preparation of flood buckets and health kits, sewing school bags and children’s
hospital gowns, filling school bags, and preparing mailings.

News and Thank you continued on page 21

December 2012. The Musings. 21

News and Thank you continued from page 18
From January 1 to September 30, 2012, 1,636 volunteers from 325 different churches in 21 different states, giving
27,053 volunteer hours have served at the MMDC and we have received 175,212 pounds of in-kind donations. In
2011 MMDC responded to the Japan earthquake relief, as well as participated in shipments of supplies to the
Congo, Liberia, Germany, Zambia, Kenya, Trinidad, Guatemala, Suriname, Bolivia, the Dominican Republic and
more. In 2011 MMDC responded to local requests for supplies and had 182 shipments disbursed within the United
States.
Many lives have been touched throughout the United States and in developing countries around the world through
shipments made from the Center. Your gift will allow this work to continue.

BIG Thanksgiving Basket THANK YOU

From: Carol Benish and the Missions Committee
On November14th, we distributed 65 Thanksgiving Dinners. The boxes included a
turkey, potatoes & gravy, corn, green beans, cranberries, stuffing, a gallon of milk, a
pie and whipped topping. Approximately 300 people will share in the blessing of a Thanksgiving dinner shared
with family and friends. We want to thank County Market, Family Fresh, Target, and Thriven Financial for

their support. Of course a big THANK YOU to the congregation for their donations and to those who

helped with the Thanksgiving Dinner distribution. Enjoy the following pictures of folks helping out.

22. The Musings. December 2012

Wishing you a blessed birthday!

12/01 Jolene Miller 12/10 Bob White 12/19 Barb Goossen
12/04 Ray Knapp 12/11 Stephanie List 12/19 Erin Seiler
12/04 John Tremse 12/11 Deven DuCharme 12/20 Ellie Tulgren
12/05 Mike Saltness 12/11 Greg Ball 12/22 Emma Naegeli
12/05 John Provos 12/12 Brianna Trainor 12/25 Brian Shafer

12/06 Linda Ewing 12/12 Chris Sjoberg 12/26 Mary Tulgren
12/06 Bob Benish 12/13 Janey Duntley 12/26 Lana Sjoberg
12/06 Paul Lindquist 12/13 Kathy Ernie 12/27 David Brathal
12/07 Mark Dolan 12/16 Richard DeLong 12/29 Harry Erb Jr.
12/07 Mel Hermansen 12/17 Vicki Bolton 12/30 Sharon Provos
12/07 Jake Kemphert 12/18 Leah Miller 12/31 Robert Lyksett
12/08 Sarah Branson 12/18 Sherry Slininger 12/31 Jonathan Lyksett
12/08 Tom Burmood 12/18 Hanna Naegeli

Spread a Little Christmas Cheer

Take time to remember our folks who are now serving in the military. The holidays are
often a difficult time for them. Let those serving know that you are thinking of them and
praying for them. Their roles often involve great danger, perilous missions and harm to

their bodies, minds, and spirits. Please pick-up a Military Address List at the
Information Rack in the Church Narthex. Remember AW 2nd Tyler Bebault,
1st LT John Dolan, LCPL Matthew Gillstrom, PFC Joseph Lawler, SGT Adam McQuiston, PFC Thomas M.
Parsons, John Wright, and Rick Hagar.

December Prayer Requests PAGE 23

Please support our church, family, and friends with your prayers, cards, and words of encouragement.
For those who mourn: family of Lucy Ann Smith; family of Gerry Fredrick; and the family of Patricia Rude.

For those now or recently hospitalized: Jim Webber; Lynn Raymond; Beverly Stalker; (Randy's mom) Rita Nichols; and Dave Lawton.
For our meetings and celebrations: New Advent Study; Forum and Fellowship – the Sounds of Christmas; Children’s Christmas
Musical; an XMAS Eve/ Day Worship Services; Baptism of Caleb Jon Wekkin on December 30.
For our mission activities: Loose-Coin Offering to the Mujila Falls Agriculture Centre; H.O.M.E. Meal; Giving Tree Presents; Senior
High Baking of Cookies & Distribution; Grace Place Xmas Party; and HUMC Christmas Day Dinner.

For our care list folks: Jeanne Akers; Bonnie Anderson; Myrtle Bailey; Bob & Clarice Bellesbach; Dwayne Bevers; Tom Brown;
Dick & Betty DeLong; Elinor Derr; Harley Halverson; Jennie Hart; Ruth Ladd; Marlis Maki; Marilyn Sampson; Sherry Slininger; Alfred
Smith; Opal Porter; Bob and Meta Ulman; and Kathleen Wallace.
For our military personnel: AW 2ndTyler Bebault; 1st LT John Dolan; LCPL Matthew Gillstrom; PFC Joseph Lawler; SGT Adam
McQuiston; PFC Thomas M. Parsons; John Wright and Rick Hagar.
For those with on-going health or life challenges:

Amy, cousin of Connie Watson Kim Langlois, daughter of Tom & Sue Burmood
Deb, neighbor of Jeanne Diefenbach Ella Lanay Hunt by Regina Zedell
D.A. friend of Regina Zedell Dave & Mary Lou Lawton
Friend & friend’s daughter Kassandra by Ruth Knapp Chuck Lewis, friend of Joanne Campbell
Mark, son of Marian & Jim Webber Velma Lupo, by Margaret Smith

Nick, grandson of Harriet & Bob Enloe Chris Janaky
Sandy, sister of Bonnie Cochran Jim Jones
Susette, daughter of Sherry Slininger Jeanne Krueger, aunt of Randy Stalker, by Randy &
Terra, cousin of Susan Amann Denise Stalker
Trudy, friend of Sue Lee Jonathan Marfell, nephew of Judy Olson
Vincent, nephew of Karen Homeier Ian McConnell, by Ruth Knapp

Tina & son Neal, friend of Ruth Knapp Hannah Manche, friend of Sue Burmood
Brian Adrian, son-in-law of Ruth Knapp Stacy Marshall and her sister, Geri
Martha Arnold, by Margaret Smith Danita Medvid,by Beverly Solsvig
Deanne Bauer Rita Nichols
Glenora Berres Dick Nelson

Chris Bogner, nephew of Ken Bogner, by Dave & Sue Doris Miller, mother of Greg Miller
Brathal Larry, Judy Parfitt and family
Lance & Vicki Bolton Rita Pierce, by husband Bob
Yvonne Dalton, sister of Harriet Enloe Guenter Radespiel, brother of Helga Jones
Bill Eigenheer by Patty Anderson Lori Reichert
Salina Erdman Nick Rinta, grandson of Art and Marilyn Feyereisen

Avery Evans, requested by Melissa Chapman Cheryl Rinta, daughter of Art & Marilyn Feyereisen
Loretta Faukner, by Margaret Smith Joshua Rodique, grandson of Pastors Larry & Joan Goebel
Jason and Arielle Fibison Gloria Rodriguez, by Lynn Watson
Ben Fischer, nephew of Marge Close Nicole Ruenter
Mike Flett, friend of Joanne Campbell Ernie and Betty Ross

Jeanette Ferstenu, mother of Deb Schwab Jeremy Sabelko, Amber, Parker, & Rylee by Amy Norelius
Jack Fredrick by Priscilla Peterson Tony, Lisa and Jude Schaefer, by Bob Hawksford
Erin Funke, cousin of Sue Warnke Nancy Salmi
Kirsten Galef, daughter of Beverly Solsvig Susan Benish Santner, sister of Bob Benish
Ben Galef, grandson of Beverly Solsvig Bobbe Schuknecht, daughter-in-law of Jean

Larry and Dee Gergens Schuknecht
Maggie Gibbs, sister of Jane White Ken Schweitzer, friend of David & Sue Brathal
Holly Gilbert, daughter-in-law of Judy Gilbert Lisa Speer, by Scott Paulson
Greg Griffin, brother of Sharon Provos Lynda Sprecher, daughter of Wayne & Pat Sprecher
Barb Hahn, friend of Ruth Knapp Dennis Stewert, by Scott Paulson
Vivian Hart Rick Stofflet, by John DeGraff

Bob and Ruth Hard, by Priscilla Peterson Connie Watson
Marv Hillman Bob and Jane White
Rev. Steve Hokonson & his wife Nancy Eldora Wilson, by Margaret Smith
Frances Hughes and family, by Lynn Gunderson Mary Wolf, cousin’s wife of Joanne Campbell
For our in-church ministries: Senior Choir; Bell Choirs; Pastor Bruce Stunkard; Christmas Day Dinner.

For those outside of these walls: Bethel Lutheran Church; Hudson Food Shelf Clients; recipients of the Giving Tree gifts; homeless
folks, especially those at Grace place.

Hudson United Methodist Church U.S. Postage
1401 Laurel Avenue Non-Profit
Hudson WI 54016
PAID
Return Service Requested
HUDSON WI
PERMIT NO. 65
ZIP CODE 54016

The Hudson United Methodist Church

1401 Laurel Avenue. Hudson, Wisconsin 54016

715.386.3921 [email protected]
www.umchudson.org

10:00 AM – 3:30 PM on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
10:00 AM – Noon on Tuesday and 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Friday