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May 18

May/June 2024 News – Volume 72, No. 4

We are in the midst of some important conversations about the future of Compton Heights Christian Church. My goal is to help you to not be afraid of the future, but to become excited about planning for ministries that give you purpose. The world has changed a lot in the past few years, and the Church must adapt to new challenges while keeping true to its heart and mission. But this has always been true. The churches of Paul’s day looked nothing like our own. Churches in different countries practice in very different ways. New churches are being birthed all the time. They may hold services in a park, a bar, a home, a community center, or in the street. They may have music or not. They may be focused on feeding their neighbors, building homes, confronting racism, serving young mothers and their children, responding to disasters, or planting trees.

What kind of church would stir your heart and keep you engaged? What kind of church is God calling us to be? Who are the neighbors that God is calling us to serve?

At the first meeting, we faced the reality of our challenges with the building, finances, and finding a permanent pastor. At the second, we talked about the values that we want to represent in the world, and our relationship with Isaiah 58.

On Wednesday, May 22, we will have our third meeting. We will be presented with possible options that include whether to partner with another congregation, whether to sell our building, and whether to move with Isaiah 58. We won’t be making any final decisions, but we will narrow our options and empower our leadership to pursue answers to our questions.

Please be present, in person or on Zoom, and bring your wisdom and love to these important conversations. Once we’re sure of our reason for being, the next steps will become clear.

Rebecca

Life of Compton Community

Prayer Requests

Please hold in prayer: Walt T., Howard M., Celia P.’s sister; Nancy O.’s mother and her neighbor Stacy; George H., Joan J’s aunt Adeline in hospice care; Diane R’s mother, her cousin Mona, and her uncle Jimmy; DebE M.’s friend Sheila. Best wishes for Bob M. and Katherine K. on their recent retirements. And recognition for Dave Boger whose activism was recently featured in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

We Also pray for: An end to fighting and human suffering in Ukraine, Gaza and Israel; an end to gun violence in the USA; all who are refuges from war, violence, or economic injustice; everyone affected by extreme weather events. All people experiencing loneliness, depression, isolation and grief. All of our LGBTQ family and friends. Anyone experiencing pain and alienation:may you know that God loves ALL of us. NOTE: Howard M. is currently recovering from a fall at Bethesda Dilworth rehab facility, 9645 Big Bend Blvd, St Louis, MO 63222. He would appreciate cards and also calls.

Calendar of Events

  • Sunday Worship is at 11 a.m. in person and live stream on Facebook
  • Choir Rehearsal: 10 a.m. on Sundays in Choir Room
  • Spirit Bloom on Zoom: Mondays at 7 p.m.
  • Elders meeting: Wednesday, May 15, 7 p.m. on Zoom
  • Book Signing and Fellowship with Rev. Timothy Murphy: Sunday, May 19 after worship
  • Congregational Meeting #3: Wednesday, May 22, 7 p.m. on Zoom or in Person at Church
  • Open Mic Night: Friday, May 31, 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall
  • Yarn Craft Circle/Prayer Shawls: Thursday, June 6 at 7 p.m. at Joan James’ home

Be A Genius!

SIGN UP to help lead worship as: Streaming Tech, Greeter, Liturgist, Elder, Deacon, Nursery, Coffee Hour via SignUpGenius

Summary: Congregational Meeting on May 5

Ways of serving we feel passionate about: supporting Isaiah 58 Ministries; open and affirming for LGBTQ+ individuals; actions for racial justice; practicing radical hospitality; being a hub for the Beloved Community.

We would LOVE being part of a community that: talks about the hard stuff; takes accessibility seriously; provides spiritual formation; encourages people to use their gifts for ministry and mission; has a relationship with Global Ministries; is constantly learning new concepts and unlearning outdated ideas; looks outside the walls and shows up for inclusion and justice in the world.

The next all church meeting is May 22 at 7 p.m. You are encouraged to come to the church library (in-person exchanges can be more spontaneous) or attend on Zoom.

Opportunities to Connect

Coffee/Fellowship Hour is a Vital Ministry! Fellowship Hour after worship is a great time to connect, and also to get to know our transitional pastor, Rebecca Turner, better! Please volunteer to host or help with refreshments; see the sign up sheet on the library doors. You can simply bring a few snacks, or set out juice and make coffee, or both. Napkins, plates and cups are provided. Coffee Fellowship Hour signup is also available on SignUp Genius.

  Spirit Bloom: Weekly Reflections

Spirit Bloom on Zoom is open to anyone with questions about spiritual development, or who would like to study scripture or spiritual questions for an hour and reflect with others. Feel free to join us, even if you live out of town, at 7 p.m. on Mondays.

Book Signing with Rev. Timothy Murphy on May 19

Some members will remember Timothy Murphy served as a pastoral intern at Compton while studying for his M.Div. at Eden Seminary in 2006-07. Since graduation he has earned a doctorate, published several books, and worked as a justice activist. Currently he serves as pastor of Plymouth Congregational Church in Fort Wayne, IN. He recently published his first children’s book. “Jesus Learns to Glow,” which he hopes will encourage children to let their own lights shine. Timothy is on sabbatical and will visit us on May 19. He will bring copies of the book for purchase that he will gladly sign during coffee hour. More information about the book is on Amazon. We also have a copy of the book in our Library for children.

May

  • Marty R – 5/15
  • Bryan R – 5/16
  • Diane R – 5/19
  • Sarah H – 5/27

June

  • Dennis J – 6/14
  • Steve R – 6/22
  • Lucy M – 6/26

Open Mic Night – Friday, May 31

Do you sing, play, recite poetry? Whatever your talent, we invite you to participate in our Open Mic event for all ages. Advanced registration is appreciated, but not required. Contact Diane R to sign up to share your talent.The next Open Mic Night will be Friday, May 31 at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Come and experience Motown in May!

Calling All Readers: Compton Heights Book Club

CHCC Book Club is open to all readers, and we meet every other month on Zoom, usually on the second Saturday of the month from 1-2 p.m. Our next meeting will be on Saturday, July 13. We will read “The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store” by James McBride.

Opportunities to Show Up and Serve Others

Prayer Shawl & Yarn Craft Circle June 6 – On Thursday, June 5 at Joan James’, join us to create shawls, blankets and more for our Prayer Shawl ministry. If you knit or crochet (or you would like to learn) come join us. If you would just like to enjoy a time for coffee/tea and fellowship, you are welcome too. If you need directions, send Joan a message.

Bag of Blessings for Isaiah 58 Ministries -Please bring these items and place them in the bins or baskets at the rear of the Sanctuary.

  • May – Canned Chicken, Rice; Flour (2lb), Sugar (1lb); Toothbrush, Toothpaste; Laundry Detergent
  • June – Tuna, Canned Ravioli with Meat; Coffee, Tea; Diapers (sizes 5,6,4T, 5T) Baby Wipes; Multi-All Purpose Cleaner

Special Event on Curbing Gun Violence – This is the second of a 4-part series sponsored by our neighbors at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church. Gun Sense for the Common Good on Thursday, May 30, 7-8:30 p.m. The meeting is in the church hall at the corner of 39th and Flad streets, entrance off of 39th. Attend and learn about several ways to participate in local gun violence prevention efforts, both in the city and in St. Louis County. Click here for more information.

St. Louis Pride is June 28-29

Compton Heights CC will once again join other Disciples Congregations at St. Louis Pride. Save the dates and watch for information on volunteering for a shift at the booth! This is one of the ways we show up for the LGBTQ community. We will also be at Tower Grove Pride in September.

Restore and Rewind: Pentecost Special Offering May 19 & 26

When it comes to church: many of us have a lot of negative tapes playing in our heads:

“Church is judgmental.” “Church is hypocritical” “They think they are better than everyone else.”

It’s time for restoration.

Rewind the tape by participating in the 2024 Pentecost Offering. Our gifts support emerging and affiliating congregations—places of generosity and justice—in our own Mid America region and elsewhere.

Celebrate: Compton’s 130th Anniversary

April 2024 marks the 130th Anniversary of the founding of Compton Heights Christian Church. We will be celebrating throughout the year. If you would like to help plan celebration activities, please talk to Darrell H or Rev. Rebecca.

Now, here is a little bit of history, appropriate for the Pentecost season. After all, Compton Heights was a NEW CHURCH once upon a time, and who knows—we may be NEW again!

On April 1 1894, 162 people signed the charter document and dedicated a small chapel at the Corner of California and St Vincent Avenues near Lafayette Park. They had borrowed $5,500 from a private lender, a widow who belonged to another church, to build a place to conduct a new ministry, the first Disciples of Christ congregation in South St. Louis. In the charter, they created a covenant and “pledge(d) each other to do all in our power to promote peace, unity, and prosperity of the church and to extend the Kingdom of Christ in all of the world.”

In the next two years, the new church grew rapidly. So many were coming that the first pastor, Rev. J. L. Parsons, wrote in 1896 about plans to put up a tabernacle on the property that could hold 1,000 people. But tragedy struck the young congregation on May 27 of that year, when it was barely over 2 years old. A tornado devastated a large swath of South St. Louis. The little chapel sustained damage to roof, walls and floors; about 30 families lost their homes and moved out of the area. Rev. Parsons wrote: “In the judgment of many, it is not worth repairing; our congregation is poor, and many of them have left.” And they still had that $5,500 debt that they were struggling to pay the interest on every 6 months.

Nevertheless, local people donated some funds, and churches outside of the city answered an appeal to donate more, and they raised $1,100 to rebuild the chapel, larger than before. In 1900, Compton Heights consolidated its remaining debt and got its first loan from the Board of Church Extension, for $3,500. In 1902, after a merger with Fifth Christian Church, the congregation began construction on a new, larger building which was dedicated in 1903 on the original site. Compton Heights was only 9 years old, and they would meet and serve in that place for almost 30 more years.

So, when and how did Compton wind up at Flora Place and Grand Boulevard? Watch for the next installment in the June/July newsletter! Meanwhile, did you notice that from the very beginning, Compton has dealt with many challenges concerning buildings and finances? Maybe coping, surviving and thriving is in our DNA!

Apr 27

Compton Celebrates 130 years

April 2024 marks Compton’s 130th Anniversary. Union Station opened, Grover Cleveland was president, population was 452,000

Mar 23

March/Easter/April 2024 News Volume 72, No. 3

Easter is coming very early this year, and, it would appear, so is spring. It’s only mid-March, and we see blooming happening everywhere. Days are warm, and the nights are warming as well. A glance at a 30-day weather calendar shows that there will not likely be many more nights that include freezing temperatures. I expect a longer-than-usual growing season for the fruits and vegetables in my backyard garden. This weather cannot help but make you smile.

Except that we know this unseasonable delight is not a fluke, nor a special gift. It is the earth’s reaction to rising temperatures worldwide. An early spring may also bring an earlier and more violent hurricane season. More coral will be lost to bleaching, and the thousands of life forms that depend on coral reefs will be devastated. Loss of life will also happen on land, and people who already live on the edges will lose their homes and be forced to migrate. People reduced to survival will fight over limited resources.

How can something that feels so good to me bring such pain to others? How do we live within the both/and of joy and suffering? I think these are the big questions of the Lenten season. How do we boldly face the traumas of this world without losing our personal and communal joy? How do we use our privilege to ease someone else’s pain? Life is filled with both/and.The gospel is both/and. The witness of Jesus’ life and death is both/and.

Today, I will tend to my garden and feel the warmth of the sunshine. I will talk to the land and seek methods for being a part of her healing. I will plan ways to share my harvest with those who have no access to land. I will remember that Jesus, even when being hounded by those who wished him dead, found joy and comfort in God’s creation, and said, “Consider the birds and the flowers, and the ways that God cares for them.” Let us take joy when it comes, and yet not lose sight of the vision for justice.

Rebecca

Weekly Worship Notes

CHCC continues worshiping in person on Sundays at 11 a.m. Masks are optional; if you need one, they are available as you enter the Sanctuary.

We circulate during Passing of the Peace; if you prefer to keep a distance, feel free to remain in your pew and wave.

Please continue to sign the Greeter’s register as you enter, and pick up a bulletin.

Communion Changes

We are now offering Communion by intinction, where you are invited to come forward to receive the bread and dip it into the cup. If you prefer to take communion in your seat, the individual cups are available to pick up as you enter the Sanctuary.

Be a Genius!

Let our Pastor and Worship Team know That You can help on Sunday mornings! Liturgists are Needed SIGN UP to participate in worship: Streaming Tech, Greeter, Elder, Deacons, Liturgist, Worship and Wonder. Use Sign Up Genius Click here to sign up

Calendar of Events

  • Sunday Worship is at 11 a.m. in person and live stream on Facebook
  • Choir Rehearsal: 10 a.m. on Sundays in Choir Room
  • Spirit Bloom on Zoom: Mondays at 7 p.m.
  • Elders meeting: Wednesday, March 20, 7 p.m. on Zoom
  • Open Mic Night: Friday, March 22, 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall
  • Spring Yard and Flower Bed Cleanup: Saturday, March 23: 10 a.m.
  • Maundy Thursday Worship: March 27, 7 p.m. Compton Heights CC
  • Good Friday Worship, March 28, 7 p.m. St. John Episcopal Church
  • Easter Potluck Breakfast: Sunday, March 31, 9 a.m. Fellowship Hall
  • Children and Youth Egg Hunt: Sunday, March 31, 10 a.m.
  • Retirement of Rev. Katherine Kinnamon: Sunday, April 4, with Regional Ministry Guests
  • Craft Circle/Knitting: April 7 at 7 p.m. at Judi Linville’s home
  • Scout Sunday: April 14, Scouts in the congregation will help lead the service

Prayer Requests

Please hold in prayer: Madison and Orion P. in thanksgiving for the birth of Campbell Jeffrey on January 31; Walt T., Howard M., Carolyn H. as she continues healing from an auto accident; Dennis J.; Celia P.’s sister; Nancy O.’s mother; George H., Joan J.’s aunt Adeline in hospice care; Diane R.’s mother, her cousin Mona, and her uncle Jimmy; DebE M.‘s friend Sheila. We Also pray for: An end to fighting and human suffering in Ukraine, Gaza and Israel; an end to gun violence in the USA; all who have been killed, injured and driven from their homes to refuge in other countries; everyone affected by extreme weather events. All people struggling with loneliness, depression and isolation. All who grieve the loss of loved ones. All of our LGBTQ family and friends. Anyone experiencing pain and alienation: may you know that God loves ALL of us.

Opportunities to Connect

Coffee Hour is a Hit, Hosts Are Needed!

Coffee Hour is a great time to connect, and also to get to know our transitional pastor, Rebecca Turner, better! Please volunteer to host Coffee Hour; see the sign up sheets on the library doors or via SignUp Genius. You can bring a few snacks, or set out juice and make coffee, or both. Napkins, plates and cups are provided.

  Book Club Meets on May 11

Compton Heights CC Book Club meets the second Saturday of every other month on Zoom at 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion, even if you haven’t finished (or read) the book! The book will be announced soon. Please contact Liz V. for a link to the meeting if you don’t usually receive one and want to join us.

Spirit Bloom Lenten Study

Spirit Blooms using the book “Pause: Spending Lent with the Psalms,” by Elizabeth J. Caldwell. Everyone is welcome to join us for this time of reflection during Lent. Future discussions include Psalm 130 on March 18; Psalms 118 and 116 on March 25, and Psalms 22 and 19 on April 1.

Open Mic Night Friday, April 26th

Do you sing, play, recite poetry? Whatever your talent, we invite you to participate in our Open Mic event for all ages. Advanced registration is appreciated, but not required. Contact Diane R. to sign up to share your talent. The next Open Mic Night will be Friday, April 26th at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall.

March and April Birthdays

  • John C. – 3/7
  • David F. – 3/16
  • Robert M. – 3/19
  • Leslie L. – 4/20
  • DebE M. – 4/25
  • Madison P. – 4/29

Holy Week

  • Maundy Thursday Service – Thursday, March 28th – 7 pm at Compton – Compton is hosting this joint service with Oak Hill Presbyterian Church and St. John’s Episcopal church. The offering for the service will go to Isaiah 58 Ministries. We are also asking that people bring socks to donate to our unhoused neighbors. All sizes and colors are welcome.
  • Maundy Thursday after party at Ted Drewes – Thursday, March 28th after worship – it’s a Compton tradition, join us at Ted Drewes on Chippewa for frozen custard.
  • Good Friday Service – Friday, March 29th – 7pm at St. John’s Episcopal Church – 3664 Arsenal Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 – a joint service with Compton and Oak Hill Presbyterian. There will be a group choir, details to follow in weekly announcement email.
  • Easter Sunday – March 31st
    • 9 am – Potluck Breakfast—Bring a dish to share in Fellowship Hall
    • 10 am – Easter Egg Hunt – on the church lawn, weather permitting
    • 11 am – Easter Worship Service in the Sanctuary

Yarn Craft Circle April 4

Screenshot

On Thursday, April 4 at Judi L.’s in Bel-Nor, join us to create shawls, blankets and more for ourPrayer Shawl ministry. If you knit or crochet (or you would like to learn) come join us. If you would just like to enjoy a time for coffee/tea and fellowship, you are welcome too. If you need directions, send Judi a message.

Retirement Celebration for Rev. Katherine Kinnamon April 7

Our own Katherine Kinnamon has served the Mid-America Region as Associate Regional Minister supporting the Commission on Ministry for several years. She will be honored on Sunday, April 7 during worship as she retires from that position. Both Regional Ministers, the Rev. Paul Koch and the Rev. Ron Routledge, will be Compton’s guests in worship that day. Please plan to join us as we recognize her for more than 40 years of ordained ministry!

Katherine earned a BS degree from San Jose State University and worked as a recreation therapist for adults with a variety of physical, mental and emotional challenges. She also worked as a community organizer during that time. She answered a call to ministry and moved to Chicago, Il., to study at the Univ. of Chicago Divinity School. She received her MA and M.Div. degrees there and was approved for ordination by the Disciples of Christ Illinois/Wisconsin Region. She was ordained at Downers Grove Christian Church in July 1980.

She has served the Church in California, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, New York, Missouri, and in Geneva, Switzerland. Her ministry has included serving as a local pastor, college minister, interim director of a council of churches, and over the past 10 years as an interim pastor. A published author, she has been a member of our Mid-America Regional Commission on the Order of Ministry since 2014 and has served as chairperson for the past two years. Congratulations and Blessings, Katherine!

Seeking Total Solar Eclipse on April 8?

Our Regional sister congregation, Abbey Road CC, 2411 Abbey Road, in Cape Girardeau, has extended an invitation to DOC churches to view the total eclipse on Monday April 8 on the grounds of their church. They are offering a lunch at 11 a.m. The eclipse will begin around noon and there will be nearly 4 minutes of totality starting just before 2 p.m.. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, sunblock, protective glasses, personal drinks and snacks if desired. There will be a guided labyrinth walk at noon. If you plan to come for lunch, please RSVP to capearcc@gmail.com by March 25. If you would like to go with someone, call or text Judi L.

Opportunities to Serve

Bag of Blessings for Isaiah 58 Ministries

April – Peanut Butter, Deluxe Mac and Cheese, Shelf Stable Milk; Toilet Paper, Paper Towels.

Special Offering: Easter Offering

Screenshot

Christ is Risen Indeed, Alleluia! Five Words that summarize our united and active response to Easter. It is our faithful response to the power of resurrection at work in our congregations, communities, and ministries across the world. Because Jesus is risen, we are set free, indeed, to share the limitless love of God, set free from the grip of sin and death, set free to rise together in shared ministry, language and service. Compton Heights CC will collect the special Easter Offering offering to support the work of the General Church during worship on March 24 and March 31.

Note of Thanks

The five Kansas University students that we hosted at Compton the week of March 11 through the KU Alternative Breaks program left the following note: Thank you so much for letting us stay here! It means the world to support us students. We are incredibly thankful. We hope that for future alternative breaks we can keep in contact. Again, thank you so much for the hospitality! Best regards, Carlie Clary and Corrin Helm.

13 Decades of Ministry and Mission

130th Anniversary – April 2024 marks the 130th Anniversary of the founding of Compton Heights Christian Church. Stay tuned for more information on how we will celebrate this anniversary.

Feb 12

Compton Celebrates Black History

The history of African Americans is weaved into the tapestry of America. African American History has impacted history of our church, community and world. We give special attention to the lives of African American Disciples who have committed their life and ministry to be a blessing to the entire Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Join us in celebrating Black Disciples History now and always!

Jan 28

February 2024 News Volume 72, No. 1

Meet Rev. Rebecca Turner, Our New Transitional Minister

Dear Compton Family,

It is a real pleasure for me to be joining you as Transitional Minister. “Transitional”: it’s a great word for a new year, isn’t it? It’s a between time. We’re traveling between the past and the future, not knowing exactly where we are going, only knowing that God leads us, surrounds us, and maybe even pushes gently from behind. I think a transition is a time for experimentation, like trying on new clothes to see what fits. A spirit of experimentation allows us to “play,” to do new things and see where our hearts take us. Come, let’s play! “Delight in YHWH, and you’ll be given the desires of your heart.”-Psalm 37:4

Let’s get acquainted during the coffee time after worship, okay? 

Rebecca

Prayers of the Community

Image credit: Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay

Please hold in prayer: Rev. Rebecca T. as she begins ministry with us; Walt T., Howard M., Dennis J. as he continues to recover; Celia P. in the loss of her brother-in-law, Warren; Nancy O. for her mother, George H., Joan J. for her aunt Adeline in hospice care, Diane R’s mother, her cousin Mona, and her uncle Jimmy; DebE M.’s friend Sheila, Leslie L’s parents, Carolyn H’s sister. We Also pray for: An end to fighting in Ukraine, Gaza and Israel; an end to gun violence in the USA; all who have been killed, injured and driven from their homes to refuge in other countries and those affected by extreme weather events. Everyone struggling with loneliness, depression and isolation. All who grieve the loss of loved ones. All of our LGBTQ family and friends. Anyone experiencing pain and alienation:may you know that God loves ALL of us.

Weekly Worship Notes

CHCC continues worshiping in person on Sundays at 11 a.m. Masks are optional; if you need one, they are available as you enter the Sanctuary. We circulate during Passing of the Peace; if you prefer to keep a distance, feel free to remain in your pew and wave. We also have begun offering Communion by intinction, where you are invited to come forward to receive the bread and dip it into the cup. If you prefer to take communion in your seat, the individual cups are available to pick up as you enter the Sanctuary. Please continue to sign the Greeter’s register as you enter, and pick up a bulletin.

Calendar

Click here to view the church calendar

  • Deanna S. – Feb. 5
  • Maddie E. – Feb. 14
  • Matthew C. – Feb. 18
  • Lynda G. – Feb. 18
  • Hugh R. – Feb. 20
  • Anderson M. – Feb. 21
  • Celia P. – Feb. 23
  • Nancy O. – Feb. 28

Book Club Meets on March 9th

Compton Heights CC Book Club meets the second Saturday of every other month on Zoom at 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion, even if you haven’t finished (or read) the book! The group will read Democracy Awakening:Notes on the State of America, by Heather Cox Richardson. Dr. Richardson is an academic historian, author of the newsletter “Letters from an American” and professor of history at Boston College. Click here for more information and/or to get the zoom link.

Coffee Hour Hosts Needed

Please volunteer for Coffee Hour; see the sign up sheets on the library doors. You can simply bring a few snacks, or set out juice and make coffee, or both. Napkins, plates and cups are provided. Coffee Hour signup will also be available on SignUp Genius

Equal Exchange Supports Small Farmers, Sustainable Growing

At CHCC, we offer Equal Exchange Coffee during weekly Coffee Hour. (You may help offset this cost by placing some change or cash in the can next to the hallway display.) The display in the hallway includes DeCaf and 3 regular ground coffees (Columbian, Ethiopian, and Morning Blend.) There are several varieties of tea, and also organic, fair trade chocolate bars. Making these available to you at cost is part of our outreach ministry for a greener and more just and sustainable earth. We can order anything you like from Equal Exchange. Check it out; coffee beans are also available, and many kinds of chocolate, tea and coffee, nuts, fruit, and olive oil. Let Judi L. know what you would like, and we can order it for you.

Congregation Elects Officers for 2024, Adds Deacons, Elders, and a Trustee

Meeting after church on December 16, the congregation elected the following slate of officers presented by DebE M. for the Nominating Committee. Officers will serve one year and deacons, elders and trustees serve 3-year staggered terms unless otherwise noted. (Final term year is in parentheses below.) Officers, elders, deacons and trustees are members of the Board of Ministry at CHCC.

Officers: Moderator, Darrell H.; Vice Moderator, Rev. Susan M.; Treasurers, Tom L. and Kathy M.; Financial Secretary, Marty R-H; Clerk, Judi L.

Elders: Janet U. and Nancy O. (2026). Elders continuing are Joan J., Rev. Millie S. (2024), and Rev. Susan M., Rev. Madison P., (2025).

Diaconate: Andy M., Bud O., and Dennis J. (2026). Deacons continuing are Darrell H., Michael H., Rev. Meredith J. and Liz V. (2024), and John C. (2025).

Trustee: DebE M. (2026). Continuing trustees are Madeline H. (2024), and Nancy O.(2025).

Ordained Elders are CHCC members who are recognized members of the clergy. They may choose to serve in rotation or in other ways they choose. Our CHCC Ordained Elders are Rev. Brenda B., Rev. Meredith J., Rev. Katherine K., Rev. Becky K. E., Rev. Millie S., Rev. Madison P., and Rev. Susan M.

New Transitional Pastor Brings Leadership and Service to Compton Heights Christian Church

Moderator Darrell H. wrote the following in a recent letter to the congregation.

Rev. Rebecca Turner began as Transitional Pastor of Compton Heights Christian Church on January 8th. Rebecca came through our ministerial search process as a candidate who brings excellent leadership skills and a strong background in pastoral service.

She has recently retired from Christ Church UCC in Maplewood, Missouri after serving from 2016 to 2023. Rebecca has served in a variety of pastoral and ministerial positions in UCC and Disciples congregations, including Union Avenue Christian Church. She has also worked as the Executive Director for Faith Aloud, a non-profit providing compassionate religious and spiritual support to women facing pregnancy. She is deeply committed to justice issues. During her tenure in Maplewood, an immigrant facing deportation was housed in the church until immigration issues were settled.

Rebecca’s position is part time (approximately 15 hours per week). She will primarily focus on worship leadership, including the bulletin, sermon, children’s time, pastoral prayer and presiding at the communion table. She will meet with the Board of ministry/executive committee approximately once per month, and the congregation quarterly to help plan ministry for the upcoming quarter. Rebecca will also provide pastoral care to members in emergency situations, for example in cases of bereavement and sudden illness. She will work with the Elders regarding pastoral issues that arise in this capacity.

The church will need to honor Rebecca’s part-time commitment. The Board, Elders, Diaconate and other members will need to assume leadership in areas that were covered by our interim, Rev. Steve Westbrook. For example, our study and Sunday School classes will need to develop other leadership options.

Moving to a part-time pastoral position does not mean our commitment and dedication will change. We do not know where our future will lead us. Our continued faith, hope, and love will preserve in ways we have yet to explore and realize. Our current mission statement remains unchanged:

It is our stated mission, as Compton Heights Christian Church, to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ, and to declare his love for all people. To this end we commit ourselves to:

  • the public worship and service of God, striving to live daily to God’s glory, and grow in our love and knowledge of God.
  • the love and service of one another, receiving and supporting one another in everyday life, as well as in specific times of joy and sorrow.
  • reaching out to others in word and deed, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that they may come to know him, his death and his resurrection and to enter into relationship with him through this congregation.

Please welcome Rebecca to ministry with us.

Dec 28

December 2023 News Volume 71, No. 9

Dear Church,

Recently, our friend Celia Pemberton shared a quote from her father that she treasures: “Faith is the abiding trust that life is a gift.” Indeed, it is!

‘Tis the season… and faith is also the abiding trust that:

A power greater than ourselves is ever coming to be born anew; No matter how dark darkness is, it cannot overcome the light; We are not alone… Emmanuel, God is with us; With God, all things are possible.

Long have you kept and practiced this Advent-Christmas faith with one another and in ministry in the world. So, too, have you done in this interim time and I know you will continue to do so.

May your Advent-Christmas faith go with you in the coming year and fill you with continued hope and vitality in the next chapter of ministry!

Thank you for the part you have blessed Kim and I to share with you these last two years!!! As we know you will keep us in your prayers, so will you ever be in ours.

Love and Blessings Always,

Steve and Kim

Prayers of the Community

Please hold in prayer: Walt T., Howard M., Millie S., Celia P. in the loss of her brother-in-law, Warren; Nancy O. for her mother, George H., Joan J. for her aunt Adeline in hospice care, Diane R.’s mother, her cousin Mona, and her uncle Jimmy; DebE M.’s friend Sheila M., Leslie L.’s parents, Carolyn H’s sister. We rejoice in Nick S.’s recovery. We Also pray for: An end to fighting in Ukraine, Gaza and Israel; an end to gun violence in the USA; all who have been killed, injured and driven from their homes to refuge in other countries and those affected by extreme weather events. Everyone struggling with loneliness, depression and isolation. All who grieve the loss of loved ones. All of our LGBTQ family and friends. Anyone experiencing pain and alienation: may you know that God loves ALL of us.

Weekly Worship Notes

CHCC continues to worship in person on Sundays at 11 a.m. Masks are optional; do what works for you. We circulate during Passing of the Peace; if you prefer to keep a distance, feel free to remain in your pew and wave. Please continue to sign the Greeter’s register as you enter, and pick up a bulletin and communion elements.

SIGN UP to participate in worship: Streaming Tech, Greeter, Elder, Deacons, Liturgist and Nursery Volunteer via Signup Genius

Sunday Morning Study Continues

Rev. Steve is sharing short videos and leads discussion at 10 a.m. in the Church Library. First Light: Jesus and the Kingdom of God, is a 12-session study of the historical Jesus and the Kingdom of God, featuring John Dominic Crossan and Marcus Borg, two of the world’s leading Jesus scholars.

Congregational Meeting to Elect Officers

Notice was given in worship on December 3 that we will have a meeting of the congregation on Sunday, December 17 immediately after worship for the purpose of electing Officers, Elders, and Deacons for 2024.

Farewell Reception for Steve and Kim Westbrook

The last day of Steve and Kim’s intentional interim ministry with CHCC will be Sunday, December 31, but since many of us travel during the holidays, a farewell reception in recognition of their 2+ years with us will happen on Sunday, December 17 immediately after the above mentioned Congregational Meeting. This is a time to celebrate our Interim Journey together, and to offer thanks to Steve and Kim for their ministry. There will be light refreshments, cake, a chance to offer thank you notes, and a surprise or two!

Christmas Eve Service and Caroling

Although Sunday, December 24, is the 4th Sunday of Advent, our 11 a.m. worship will also contain our Christmas Eve worship, and we will not have an evening service on that Sunday. Members who want to go caroling will gather after worship for light refreshments and then go out in the neighborhood in the afternoon to continue CHCC’s long tradition of caroling on Christmas Eve.

Birthdays

  • Brenda B. 12/4
  • Percy L. 12/4
  • Susan M. 12/7
  • Ty W. and Jacob W. 12/12
  • Liam Spencer 12/14
  • Cathy H. 12/19
  • Nick S. 12/25
  • Kathy M. 12/31
  • Kim L. 1/1
  • Xavier L. 1/1
  • Ron H. 1/6
  • Judi L. 1/21
  • Raymond S. 1/23
  • Liana V. 1/25
  • Shannon W. 1/28

Book Club Meets on January 13

Compton Heights CC Book Club usually meets the second Saturday of every other month on Zoom at 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion, even if you haven’t finished (or read) the book! For January, the group is reading ”Killers of the Flower Moon,” by David Grann.

Coffee Hour Hosts Needed

Please volunteer for Coffee Hour; see the sign up sheets on the library doors. You can simply bring a few snacks, or set out juice and make coffee, or both. Napkins, plates and cups are provided.

Christmas Offering Supports Our Mid-America Region

Open Mic Night With a Christmas Theme

December Open Mic Night was a success with several new contributors. After break, some CHCC members led the audience in Christmas carols. Earlier, Janet and her granddaughter played ukuleles and sang “Jingle Bells.” Everyone enjoyed the fellowship and refreshments! Thanks to Diane R. and her musical friends for an inspiring evening!

Equal Exchange Supports Small Farmers, Sustainable Growing

At CHCC, we offer Equal Exchange Coffee during weekly Coffee Hour. The display in the hallway includes DeCaf and 3 regular ground coffees (Columbian, Ethiopian, and Morning Blend.) There are some varieties of tea, and also Organic, fair trade chocolate bars. Making these available at cost is part of our outreach ministry for a greener and more just and sustainable earth. We can order anything you like from Equal Exchange. Check it out; coffee beans are also available, and many more kinds of chocolate, tea and coffee, nuts, fruit, and olive oil. Let Judi L. know if you would like something.

Dec 2

Advent

Events and Opportunities during Advent

  • Hanging of the Greens – Sunday, December 3rd, 11:00 am – during worship. We will prepare sanctuary to help us prepare for Christ’s birth.
  • Christmas Open Mic Night – Friday, December 8th, 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm – In addition to open mic performances, there will be carol singing and a chance to socialize.
  • Farewell Reception for the Westbrooks – Sunday, December 17th, after worship. During coffee time we will have a chance to wish Steve and Kim well and to say thank you to Steve as his interim ministry with Compton ends.
  • Neighborhood Christmas Caroling – Sunday, December 24th 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm – We will gather at the church and carol in the neighborhood for the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association. Compton has 70+ year tradition of Christmas Caroling to bring joy to our neighbors and to raise money for the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association, which funds children’s services in the St. Louis area.  If you would like to donate to the Carols Association Click here for a link to their website.
  • Tree of Warmth – The Tree of Warmth stands in the Narthex.  During advent you are invited to bring scarves, gloves, mittens, hats, socks and even long underwear to place on or under the tree.  These items will be distributed by Isaiah 58 Ministries to those in need.
  • Christmas Special offering – this Christmas offering equips our Regional church to provide an abiding presence in summer camp settings, congregational life, and leadership gatherings. Your gift enables our shared ministry to give support to Elders, Sunday School teachers, youth group sponsors, worship leaders, seminarians, and pastors. With your gift, connections are made between congregations and among Disciples across our Regional geography and around the world.

May 20

April/May News – Vol. 71, No. 3

Let Us Celebrate that Easter is Not About the Date!

The liturgical and calendar date of Easter is designated as the first Sunday after the paschal (Passover) full moon which falls on March 21… the Spring Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere, the Autumnal Equinox in the Southern Hemisphere.

But obviously, Easter is not about this date.

Easter is God bringing new creation out of that which is void and empty. Easter is God raising new life out of death. Easter is the pattern of all that exists: Life-Death-New Life. Easter is the mystery of faith: Christ has died. Christ is Risen. Christ comes again.

Easter is God’s grace picking us up when we cannot get up on our own. Easter is God making a new pathway for us when no way forward seems to exist.

And this can happen any day, anytime… and does happen somewhere all the time… just not all the time for any single person or living thing! And so, the date of Easter Sunday and the following weeks of Eastertide may or may not be experienced as Easter for any particular one of us.

There may instead be those among us (and innumerable ones beyond us) who are in the thick of distress and death in all its myriad forms. Which means that the particular days of April 9, 2023 and following will not be joyful for them in any way.

And yet, we will nonetheless open a tiny space in our hearts, exactly for them, praying that they will also be able to open a tiny space in their hearts for Easter to come for them… when it will!

Because we know first-hand that Easter is not about the date, but about the love and power of God to raise us to new life. When has Easter come? When is Easter coming? When will it come again?

For each of us, for Compton and for the world, may there be a little more joy that brings a little more hope in just thinking about it!

Easter Blessings, Steve

Prayers of the Community

Please hold in prayer: Walt T., Penny and Howard M., Courtney H., Joan J. for her aunt Adeline in hospice care; Diane R’s mother and her cousin Mona, DebE M.’s friend Sheila, Marsha M.’s nephew, Trey W., Matt W. in the loss of his grandfather Bobbly Walton; Leslie L.’s parents; Carolyn H.’s sister; We Also pray for: An end to fighting in Ukraine; an end to gun violence in the USA; all who have been killed, injured and driven from their homes to refuge in other countries. Those affected by extreme weather events. Everyone struggling with loneliness, depression and isolation. All who grieve the loss of loved ones. Anyone experiencing pain and alienation: may you know that God loves ALL of us.

Coffee Hour News : Volunteers Needed!

Coffee time following worship service is a time for us to have conversation, reconnect with one another, and fellowship with each other. We are looking for volunteers to help sustain this ministry. Anyone who would like to volunteer and be one of the coffee hosts and/or to provide the snacks for coffee time, please sign up on sheets on the doors to the library or contact Marsha McGuire. There are separate sheets, one to be coffee host – to prepare coffee and set up the room etc. and a separate sheet to provide snacks. If you are willing to do both, be sure to sign up on both sheets. After June, will will have 5 coffee time hosts, we would like to have 8-9 coffee hosts so that each volunteer would be only be providing snacks once every couple of months.

Around Compton Heights

Building Assessment: Jim Michel of Church Extension conducted an assessment of our building on February 14. We anticipate getting his report and suggestions in May.

Search Committee: Five members have been named to the Search Committee for our settled minister. They are Leslie Latham, Marcia Hendrix, Darrell Hughes, Rev. Becky Klemme-Elicieri, and Orion Peterson. We will be hearing soon about what the search process entails. Keep them in prayer!

Mission News and Opportunities

Volunteer Contact needed

Cornerstone Center for Early Learning is located at the corner of 39th Street and Russell Blvd in the Shaw neighborhood. When Cornerstone was started, it was housed in our building, Compton Heights Christian Church. At that time, it was named Helping Hand. Compton Heights has had a connection with Cornerstone since it began. Karen Lucy, Director at Cornerstone, would like some contact persons at Compton Heights that are interested in continuing this community connection between Compton Heights and Cornerstone continues in the future. Please contact Marsha McGuire if you are interested in being a contact person.

Bag of Blessings for Isaiah 58 Ministries

Please bring these to the baskets at back of the Sanctuary on Sundays

All fruit and vegetable suggestions are to be canned and, if possible, low sodium and/or in their own juice.

May

Canned Chicken, Rice; Flour (2#bags) Sugar (1#bags); Toothbrush, toothpaste; Laundry detergent, 50 oz or smaller.

Mid-America Region

Mid-America Disciples Women will meet on Zoom on Saturday, April 22 at 9 a.m. All women are welcome. For a link to the meeting, send an e-mail to Coordinator Jennifer Long

Summer Camp Enrollment is now open! Scholarships are available and volunteer counselors are still needed! For information visit our Regional website.

For news about other groups and churches in Mid-America, sign up for the Weekly newsletter by contacting Susan Moore.

April:MayFinalPdf

General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

What is General Assembly? It is a gathering of Disciples from all around the country and all around the world for five days of worship, speakers, workshops, meals, service projects, business and fellowship. The schedule of gathering every two years was interrupted by Covid, but now we are back on track. Our congregation will be able to send a couple of voting representatives, but anyone can attend. There will be activities for children and youth also.

Registration remains open until the start of Assembly. To learn about the schedule and register, please visit ga.disciples.org

Feb 4

Vision Action Team Update

February 2, 2023

Dear Church,

The Vision Action Team (VAT) was grateful to be able to present our work this far during this past “Souper” Sunday! As we continue, we wanted to continually provide the congregation with updates!

On Tuesday 1/31 the VAT met to identify additional ministries to more deeply engage the congregation in our discovery efforts. These ministries will complement current ministries at CHCC and we imagine will continue to evolve with our needs. They include:

o  Community Engagement Team

o  Arts Team

o  Worship Team

The Community Engagement Team will work to network CHCC in the city of St. Louis through attending Neighborhood Association Meetings and other Community/Civic Organizations.  After upcoming municipal elections, this team may contact members of the newly elected Board of Aldermen and others to exchange information and ideas about community engagement potential for CHCC/Isaiah 58 Ministries. If you are interested, please contact John Colhouer at jpcolhouer@gmail.com.  

The Arts Team will work to create events across various disciplines that could be featured in CHCC spaces. Open Mic Night and other concerts, knitting groups such as the prayer shawl group, etc. could be featured, created, marketed or presented by this team. If you are interested please contact Brenda Booth at brendabooth58@gmail.com.

The Worship Team will work to create thoughtful, creative and seasonal ways to enrich our worship services. Through our Oneing events it was clear that the congregation was eager to introduce new ways to celebrate our worship together beginning with the upcoming Lenten season. To contribute input or participate, please contact Steve Westbrook at swestbrook.22@gmail.com.

We look forward to sharing our updates as they develop and are thrilled to get these teams into “action”!  

Steve

Jun 18

June – July Newsletter Volume 70, No. 6

Steve’s thoughts for the Season After Pentecost 

Sermon excerpt from Sunday, June 5 in celebration of Pentecost Sunday…

The world rages mightily today with division, fragmentation and “othering.” We don’t need uniformity, but we do need more unity. We need more people throughout the earth today to celebrate and promote our common humanity and the common language of our existential equality as God’s diverse peoples.

This is what those first Jewish disciples, with the gift of the Holy Spirit, were doing on Pentecost and during the years that followed. May it be so today and may we be among those who passionately fan those flames!

In this season of Pentecost and in this month of PRIDE, may we celebrate and promote our common humanity and the beauty of all God’s diverse peoples.

Prayers of the Community

Please hold in prayer: Walt T, Penny and Howard M, Janet U, Katherine K’s granddaughter Esha, Shannon W., Diane Richardson’s cousin Mona, DebE M’s friend Sheila, Leslie L’s parents; Carolyn H’s sister; Ryan (husband of Steve R’s niece.) We Also pray for: An end to fighting in Ukraine. All who have been killed, injured and driven from their homes to refuge in other countries. Those affected by extreme weather events. Everyone struggling with loneliness, depression and isolation. All who have lost family to Covid-19 and other illnesses. Migrant farm workers suffering unfair wages and labor laws. Anyone experiencing pain and alienation: may you know that God loves ALL of us. May we find hope and choose to build healthy relationships within ourselves, with others, and with creation itself. 

Upcoming Events

  • Wednesday, June 15 – Elders Circle, 7 pm on Zoom
  • Saturday, June 18 – Isaiah 58 Juneteenth Celebration
  • Sunday, June 19 – Worship, 11 am in person and on Facebook live
  • Monday, June 20 – Spirit Bloom, 7 pm on Zoom
  • Saturday, June 25 – Compton and area Disciples booth at PrideFest, all day Downtown
  • Sunday, June 26 – Worship, 11 am in person and on Facebook live, and Compton and area Disciples booth at PrideFest, all day Downtown
  • Monday, June 27 – Spirit Bloom, 7 pm on Zoom
  • Wednesday, June 29 – Cabinet, 7 pm on Zoom
  • Sunday, July 3 – Worship, 11 am in person and on Facebook live
  • Wednesday, July 6 – Board of Ministry, 7pm on Zoom
  • Saturday, July 9 – Book Club, 1 pm on Zoom
  • Sunday, July 10 – Worship, 11 am in person and on Facebook live

Longtime member, Audrey T, died to this life on June 3. A celebration in honor of her life will be held Friday, June 17, at 5 p.m. at the church. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Walt, to daughters Susan and Alyson and their children, and all other family. Audrey and Walt celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary on May 21.

We also extend our sympathy to Janet U on the passing of her mother, Mary, age 92, on June 8. Visitation was held on June 12. with services and burial to be in Arkansas on June 15. We hold both of these families in prayer. 

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