COME LISTEN TO THE MUSIC! Mark your calendar now!

The Reverend Donna K. Manocchio, Senior Pastor 860 529-3013 – [email protected] Meghan D. Young, Acting Associate Pastor [email protected] Acting Chr...
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The Reverend Donna K. Manocchio, Senior Pastor 860 529-3013 – [email protected] Meghan D. Young, Acting Associate Pastor [email protected] Acting Christian Education Director 860 966-2432 – [email protected] Will Kanute, Director of Music [email protected] 860 529-4167 Church – 860 257-9637 Fax Vol. 25 No. 3– March 1, 2011

March Newsletter Editor – Carol Harvey RHCC e-mail address – [email protected] Website: www.rhccucc.org Office Hours – 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday 8:00am-noon Friday Sunday Worship Services – 10:00 a.m. Childcare Available/Handicap Accessible

COME LISTEN TO THE MUSIC! Mark your calendar now!

Yale University Coeducational a cappella singing group, Redhot & Blue will perform at RHCC, UCC on SATURDAY, MARCH 5 at 4:00 PM. Performing all over the world to critical acclaim, the group’s music is rooted in jazz and their repertoire also includes Motown, Broadway, and Classic Rock. You don’t want to miss this concert! Tickets are $15; $10 for seniors and students; $25 maximum per family. 1

Dear friends, I’m writing this letter just after returning home from a college visit. We began the day touring the campus, looking at classroom buildings, housing options, libraries, and recital and performance halls. We listened as a tour guide talked about her wonderful experience, highlighting all the unique and special characteristics that this college offers. Later in the afternoon, we talked to a professor in the music department, who asked Rose about her current activities, her academic and career goals, and then talked about the music program at the school. On the ride home, we discussed the pros and the cons of what we saw and heard. We talked again about Rose’s hopes and dreams for college and a career, wondering about the best preparation and path for the years ahead. The season of Lent, I think, is like the college search process. It is a time of wilderness walking and a time of preparation. You are not always clear about the path ahead and there is an intensity of focus that marks both times. It is a time to search your heart and life and discover what is important. In the season of Lent, our tour guide is Jesus, and we encounter his words and deeds in the Biblical text, our Christian tradition, and our congregational gatherings. As we walk with Jesus, he will highlight for us the unique and special characteristics that mark the Christian life, a life that includes walking first to the cross so that we might know the joy of resurrection. Won’t you join us this Lenten season as we walk with Jesus? There are many options during this month. Read the Encounters devotional written by church members and friends. Take some time each day looking at the options that you make about sharing your time, talent, and treasure. Attend weekly worship to hear words of comfort and challenge even as we give our God our praise and thanks. Join in a bible study on Sunday morning or Wednesday evening. Participate in the Missions Walk. As we begin our Lenten journey this month, let us do so with the prayer and hope that we will discover new ways to live as friends and disciples of Jesus. In faith and peace, Donna 2

Sunday Worship Schedule during Lent

March 6

Transfiguration Sunday Scripture: Matthew 17:1-9 The Rev. Donna K. Manocchio Sermon: “Finding Out Who You Are”

March 13

First Sunday in Lent Scripture: Matthew 4:1-11 The Rev. Donna K. Manocchio Sermon: “We’ve Only Just Begun”

March 20

Second Sunday in Lent Scripture: John 3:1-7 Sermon: “Rough Cut”

March 27

Meghan Young

Third Sunday in Lent Scripture: John 4:5-42 Sermon: “Living Water”

The Rev. Donna K. Manocchio

Confirmation For a short month, confirmation class did a lot of learning and walking in faith during February. We explored our two sacraments, Baptism and Communion, and had great discussions about what baptism and communion mean in our daily lives and faith. We continued our interfaith learning, visiting temple Beth Torah with the 2nd&3rd Grade class. And, we joined the boards and committees for their visioning night, sharing our vision, and learning how the many boards and committees serve our Church. March will bring the start of our preparation during Lent, some wonderful discussion about our faith, and an exciting field trip to live into our faith. March Schedule: Here’s what we’re learning and doing this month… Date Class/Event Times Wednesday, March 9th WORSHIP: Ash Wednesday Service 7 PM *Part of the Shrove Tuesday/Ash Wednesday Gathering (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM) Sunday, March 13th CLASS: Caffeine & Christ @ Town Line Diner 2-3:45 PM Topics – Sin & Grace, Ecumenical Dialogue, and more Sunday, March 26th FIELD TRIP: Manna & The Rocks 9 AM – 2 PM If you would like more information about confirmation please contact Meghan Young at [email protected]. 3

CALL TO THE ANNUAL BUDGET AND ELECTIONS MEETING The annual Budget and Elections Meeting of the Rocky Hill Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is called for Sunday, March 20, 2011 immediately following worship in Chapin Hall for the transaction of the following items of business: 1. to vote on the proposed local budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year; 2. to vote on the proposed benevolence budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year and to approve all special offerings for Missions and Diaconate; 3. to elect church officers and board and committee members for terms beginning May 1, 2011; 4. to approve the recommendation of the Fair Committee for expenditure of the proceeds from the 2010 events; 5. to vote on the distribution of the loose collections for the 2011-2012 fiscal year; 6. to release with gratitude the Senior Pastor Search Committee, their task completed. 7. to conduct any other business brought before the congregation. Marsha Hoffman, Church Clerk

Fundraising What do a roast beef dinner, Scrip-Sure, apple pies, a silent auction, spa treatments, and donuts on a parade route all have in common? They are all ideas that got someone to think “hey we might be able to raise some funds with this.” Then, enough people put in their time, talent and treasure to make them successful fundraising ventures. Now we need YOUR ideas! C’mon, you know you’ve had this recurring thought that if you could pull together a few people with the right talents and time, you might just be able to generate some treasure! But, you just aren’t quite sure where to start or who to talk to first. Well, hold onto that thought no longer. The only way to see if it will work is to get it out in the open. If the Fair Committee thought “eh, probably nobody likes apple pies,” where would we be today! If Dave Hall thought “Scrip-Sure is too complicated, nobody will sign up for it,” we’d be missing $10,000 and counting. We need your help to support the many programs and activities we engage in as a church family, so blow the dust off your fundraising ideas, and drop me a line. Phone, email, message in a bottle, whatever works for you is fine. Just say it! Tom Rolfe, on behalf of Council 860-257-3489 [email protected] 4

Hello, My Name Is …………… Our vision indicates we want to be a church where every member offers and receives an EXTRAVAGANT WELCOME: The Friendly Church at the Center Where, if I may borrow from Cheers, “everybody knows your name”. This brings me to this month’s point. We need to wear name tags. When I joined RHCC 5 years ago, I expected to know many folks as I had been a resident in town for 40 years. In fact, I knew just a handful. As a “name-challenged” person it has been quite difficult to get to know so many folks. This has been a problem all my life. I scribbled names on my bulletin or paged through the pictorial looking to find someone I had just met (and forgotten) hoping she or he was pictured and had not changed too much. The number of colored dots on the visioning sheet shows wearing name tags is a priority for many. Sssooo what’s the problem? Do you need a replacement? Do you always forget? Is it unattractive? What’s a church to do? Do you want them to be prettier colors, decorated with gold stars, silver crosses, flowers? There are 2 sides available on our current system, maybe you want to design your own on the flip-side? Someone proposed a special “name tag enforcement squad” be appointed. Should we go back to collecting them after each service, at both doors and the door exiting Chapin Hall and have them available to be picked up at the next service? How about a contest? Wear your name tag and receive a free cup of coffee during coffee hour! Or, maybe, you will meet and greet a new member, by name, and make a friend. Looking for solutions, What’s Her Name A.K.A Steph Heneghan Please, give the Diaconate your feedback or drop a note in our box. We would love membership involvement on this initiative.

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Your Missions Dollars Can Change Many Lives Last month, Pastor Donna gave us each a dollar and an opportunity to think about what we could do with just that dollar. Many of us pooled our dollars together, some of us gave their dollars away, and many wonderful ideas were shared. It was an exciting exercise in generosity and an interesting way to be spiritually present with our relationship with money. It also gives us a chance to reflect on the money that we contribute to the Benevolence Budget each year, and how much can be done with each dollar that is donated to Missions. We will be highlighting this at the Missions Walk, and we try each month to let you know how much your contribution to Missions helps people both here in our area, and throughout the world. We would like to celebrate the folks who gave just a dollar through Scrip-sure to Covenant to Care. Those dollars donated on the line item on the Scrip form have really added up and we were able to send over $300 in gift cards to our social worker so far. What a joy to be able to help those families with just our dollar!! In putting together our budget for the coming fiscal year, we thoughtfully considered our contributions, and decided to add two very important organizations to our budget. One we have given to in the past and one is new to us. We also decided to increase our contribution to some of our local organizations, as well as increasing our donation to Our Church’s Wider Mission, which helps the UCC do its work both here in Connecticut and throughout the world. With a modest increase in our budget this year, we hope that the dollars spent will change many lives! Please remember to support the Mission of the church each week when you put your offering in plate. It really makes a difference!! Our additions to the budget are: Bread for the World, a faith-based, anti-hunger organization that has been around for many years (Donna did a summer internship with them in 1983 in Saginaw, MI) Bread for the World, whose mission is “HAVE FAITH. END HUNGER,” addresses hunger on the legislative level – nationally and sometimes locally, by urging support of specific congressional bills. They are a long-standing, successful organization with a local contact. Bread for the World is a collective Christian voice urging our nation's decision makers to end hunger at home and abroad. God's grace in Jesus Christ moves us to help our neighbors, whether they live in the next house, the next state, or the next continent. Bread for the World members write personal letters and emails and meet with our members of Congress. Working through our churches, campuses, and other organizations, they engage more people in advocacy. Each year, 6

Bread for the World invites churches across the country to take up a nationwide Offering of Letters to Congress on an issue that is important to hungry and poor people. You can find out more information about Bread for the World at www.bread.org. Church World Service works with partners to eradicate hunger and poverty and to promote peace and justice around the world. They reach out to neighbors in need near and far--not with a hand out, but a hand up. Around the world, Church World Service supports sustainable grassroots development, disaster relief, and refugee assistance, and they educate and advocate on hunger-related issues. In the U.S., they help communities respond to disasters, resettle refugees, promote fair national and international policies, and provide educational resources. Find out more about Church World Service at www.churchworldservice.org. Come to the Missions Walk! – Sunday, March 27 A Meet, Greet and Eat event!! Directly after church. All church members and friends are invited to attend this wonderful opportunity to learn about all the organizations our church supports through your donations to the Benevolence budget!! Representatives will be on hand to tell you all about how their organizations help people both here and throughout the world. Open to all, young and old. Go from booth to booth during this indoor event, get your special map stamped at each booth, and enter the drawing to win a Kindle and other raffle items! Light lunch to follow. Special Offering, One Great Hour of Sharing – Sunday, April 3 Giving Help, Hope and life! Supports partners in more than 70 countries with ministries that fund development projects, feed the victims of famine, provide services for displaced people, and respond to natural disasters. Sharing brings joy: To us. To others. To God. Please consider supporting the UCC with this special offering. Foodshare Walk against Hunger – Sunday, May 1 Save this Date!! Walk with us this May, and help raise money to feed hungry families throughout the Hartford area. Planning will begin soon. It’s a 3-mile walk, open to all ages! Church youth are especially encouraged to join us again this year! Please commit to walking with our team and raising money for Foodshare! Where did your money go in February? Rocky Hill Human Services - $1000 Church World Service (proceeds from Tool and Blanket Card Sales) - $205 The Board for Missions are: David Bell – Treasurer, Michael H. Bower - Chair, Linda Calcagni, Bob Carberry, Dave Edwards, Thomas Kainamura, Stephanie Kelley, Meghan Kelly, Marge Murk - Secretary, and Rich Pawlich-Pagliccio 7

March 2011: Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is? Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this? Esther 4:14b Everyone jokes about African time, but I think the North American concept of time is a big joke. Have you ever noticed how often you hear the word ‘busy’ in a day? Being busy in North American culture is highly valued. By contrast, African culture does not value being busy. If you ask someone if they are busy, they look at you strangely. Don’t even try to ask someone what time it is. They don’t have watches. This culture values spending time with friends and family, and helping each other. In North American culture, I may have had six or seven meetings a day. A typical day in Africa consists of ‘footing’ to my office and waiting until someone walks in and wants to talk to me. Sometimes there is a meeting scheduled although it’s rare to have an appointment. No one has a watch, let alone a phone to call ahead. A meeting scheduled for nine, generally starts at 9:30 but sometimes it gets underway at ten or even eleven. This culture values discussion and consensus building. Decision making by consensus takes time, so there is no predicting when a meeting will end. The more people that attend, the longer the meeting. Waiting, such as waiting in line or a “queue” is something we in North America abhor. But it is expected in Africa. Why hurry? We in North America never loiter, dawdle or linger around. We are busy. In my former life I was so busy I had to schedule a phone call with my friends. There were never enough hours in a day. When my children were young I often missed their sporting events or dance recitals because I was busy. But here, loitering is a way to chat and connect with friends and family. (And everyone is family.) In Africa, I loiter. I meet a lot of people that way. I learn about their life, their families, and their values. Maybe we in North America have it all wrong. Maybe the joke is on us. Maybe we should loiter more often. Donald and Maryjane Westra are missionaries with the United Church of Christ in Zimbabwe. Donald serves as staff to the Micro-Enterprise and Strategic Planning/Management Program at Mt. Selinda. Maryjane serves as a health and child care consultant at Mt. Selinda 8

Christian Education S.P.I.R.I.T. Corner Check-in The month of February was a time of continued exploration in our faith. The 2nd & 3rd graders continued the hard work as bible detectives, exploring stories of faith throughout scripture, visiting Temple Beth Torah, and eventually cracking the case and finding out how the Bible made its way all the way to Rocky Hill. The rest of the S.P.I.R.I.T. Church School classes continued to make their way through the Gospel of Luke, encountering Jesus at every turn. Our S.P.I.R.I.T. Youth Group had a “choose your own adventure” night in February, which included dinner and bowling . Lunch Bunch continued to meet, discussing where we see faith at play in our lives. And, the High School Crew tried out Gleeble Study, exploring our faith through the song, stories, and humor of the T.V. show Glee. The Youth Room re-decorating efforts are underway. Many of the children and youth have given their input as to how to make the youth room even more fun and welcoming. So stay tuned for updates, as we work our way through the design phase to the big reveal. March, and the beginning of Lent, has something new in store for the S.P.R.I.T. Church School. We will be trying out a rotational model, as we “Journey Through the Life of Jesus”. So let us know what you think, and get involved! Here’s What’s Happening This Month: Be sure to check the church website for details about events, as well as updates and changes to the calendars. SPECIAL EVENTS: You do not want to miss these! Date Scripture/Lesson Wednesday, March 9 Shrove Tuesday/Ash Wednesday Gathering & Worship ALL Invited! 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM in Chapin Hall S.P.I.R.I.T Church School Calendar: What we’re learning this month. Date Scripture/Lesson Sunday, March 6 Communion Sunday, Family Worship Sunday, March 13 First Sunday in Lent: Rotational Model 1 The Boyhood of Jesus Sunday, March 20 Second Sunday in Lent: Rotational Model 2 Jesus & His Disciples Sunday, March 27 Third Sunday in Lent: Family Worship, Special music provided. S.P.I.R.I.T. Youth Calendar: March Date Event Friday, March 4 Youth Night In (6th-12th Grade)  6 PM – 10 PM Dinner (iron chef style), movies, wii, and more! Sunday, March 13 Lunch Bunch (6th-8th Grade ) 11:30 AM-1 PM Sunday, March 20 Lunch Bunch (6th-8th Grade ) 11:30 AM-1 PM High School Crew Check-in  4 PM – 6 PM Sunday, March 27 Lunch Bunch (6th-8th Grade ) 11:30 AM-1 PM Gleeble Study (9th-12th Grade)  4 PM – 6 PM 9

S.P.I.R.I.T. Announcements & Ways to Get Involved: Journey Through the Life of Jesus – Volunteer during lent! The S.P.I.R.I.T. church school is journeying through the life of Jesus during lent, and we’re trying something new. Classes will rotate each week to different shops and homes in the ancient Israeli village that Jesus grew up in. In order to make our village come alive, we are in need of some volunteers. Volunteers are asked to assist with or lead activities 1-2 Sundays during lent. We are looking for volunteers to help with music, arts and crafts, baking, drama, marketplace activities (such as carpentry, fishing, and brick-making), and story-telling. If you are interested in volunteering in our ancient village, please sign-up in Chapin Hall or email [email protected]. Silver Lake 2011 Pick up your Silver Lake 2011 summer camp calendars in Chapin Hall or in the Church School hallway, and sign-up for summer fun! Scholarships are available. Please contact Meghan Young at [email protected] for more information.

SHROVE TUESDAY/ASH WEDNESDAY GATHERING Gather for pancake dinner, dinner, celebration, and special music, followed by a time of worship.

Wednesday, March 9th, 5:30— 5:30—7:30 PM Join us As we move from dancing into a time of preparation.

SIGN-UP IN CHAPIN HALL OR EMAIL [email protected] 10

It’s that time of year – March – when we change our clocks to “spring forward” into Daylight Savings Time and we observe other signs of Spring as they unfold. The same is true of our church calendar and scheduled Stewardship responsibilities and activities. Briefly, three important dates to add to your calendars and to be thinking about are: • March 20th – the all church Budget & Elections meeting • April 17th – our Pledge Sunday • June 5th – the Annual Meeting The warmth of June days may seem far away just now, but the warmth of generating plans and activities at our church is evident. The process of “doing God’s work” is embedded in this year’s theme – “With God’s help, we are changing lives.” A perfect example of this dedication is the response and wide participation of the congregation in developing the Vision and its Action Plans for Rocky Hill Congregational Church, UCC … a process which in itself is a testimony to a church who is joyfully generous. You will be hearing more about this mission and ministry of our entire congregation through letters, conversations, the sharing of personal commitments … and yes, a sermon or two in the coming months. But we are asking you now to start thinking about ways you can be involved in this process by sharing your time, talents, monetary treasures, or any combination thereof, and experience the joy of your generosity not just for yourself but watching such unfold, grow and enrich the lives of so many others here and afar. Faithfully, Your Stewardship Committee

We need to compile a list of people willing to be called upon when someone needs a ride to church. This is not a weekly commitment, but certainly is rewarding support to members of our church family in need. If you are coming to church anyway, why not start a few minutes early and help another member enjoy worship, too. Please call Julie Dostie at 860-563-5663 or the church office to be put on the list. You won’t regret it! 11

WORSHIP SCHEDULE Sunday Morning Worship Communion 1st Sunday 10:00 a.m. with childcare

2011 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY 1

WEDNESDAY 2

10:30am Community Event 9:00am Quilters 7:00pm Boards and 12:00pm YOGA w/Lynn 12:30pm Bible Study Committees 5:00pm Stewardship Mtg 7:30pm Adult Choir

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Scrip Pick Up Dixieland Band Ensemble in Worship

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7

8

9

14

15

16

Ash Wednesday 10:30am Community Event 8:30am Breakfast Club 9:00am Quilters 2:00pm The Lodge Svc 10:30am Community Event 12:00pm YOGA w/Lynn 5:30pm Yoga with Lynn 12:00pm Worship/Chapel 7:00pm Women’s AA 12:30pm Bible Study 7:00pm RHCC Bowling 5:30pm Shrove Tuesday & 7:30pm Bell Choir Worship/Chapel 7:30pm Adult Choir

9:15am Scripture in Fiorilli Rm 12:00pm Community Event 10:00am Genesis Service 9:00am Quilters 11:30am Lunch Bunch 5:30pm Yoga with Lynn 10:30am Community Event 12:00pm YOGA w/Lynn 2:00pm Confirmation 7:00pm Women’s AA 7:00pm Council 12:30pm Bible Study 4:00pm High School Gleeble 7:00pm RHCC Bowling 6:45pm Scripture/Fiorilli Rm 7:00pm RHCCNS Mtg 7:30pm Adult Choir 7:30pm Bell Choir

20 9:00am Confirmation Field Trp 9:15am Scripture in Fiorilli Rm 11:15am Budget & Elections 11:30am Lunch Bunch 1:00pm Community Event 4:00pm High School Gleeble

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22

23

29

30

5:30pm Yoga with Lynn 7:00pm Women’s AA 7:00pm RHCC Bowling 7:30pm Bell Choir

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Scrip-Sure Deadline 28 5:30pm Yoga with Lynn Open Road in Worship 9:15am Scripture in Fiorilli Rm 7:00pm Women’s AA 7:00pm RHCC Bowling 11:30am Missions Walk 7:30pm Bell Choir 11:30am Lunch Bunch 4:00pm High School Gleeble

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9:00am Quilters 9:00am CT Conf Mnstry Mtg 12:00pm YOGA w/Lynn 12:30pm Bible Study 6:00pm Yoga w/Lynn 6:45pm Scripture/Fiorilli Rm 7:30pm Adult Choir

9:00am Quilters 9:00am Committee on 12:00pm YOGA w/Lynn Interim Ministry 12:30pm Bible Study 6:45pm Scripture/Fiorilli Rm 7:30pm Adult Choir

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ROCKY HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 805 Old Main Street – Rocky Hill, CT 06067 (860)529-4167 office • (860)257-9637 fax office@ rhccucc.org • website: rhccucc.org Office Hours 8 am – 2 pm – Monday – Friday The Reverend Donna K. Manocchio, Associate Pastor Meghan Young, Acting Director of Christian Education The Reverend Arthur C. Weil, Minister Emeritus Will Kanute, Director of Music

THURSDAY 3 5:30pm TOPS 8:00pm Men’s AA

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FRIDAY 4

11

5:30pm TOPS 8:00pm Men’s AA

12 8:15am Yoga with Lynn 9:15am Yoga with Lynn

18

5:30pm TOPS 7:00pm Women of the Bible 8:00pm Men’s AA

24

5

10:30am Community Event 8:15am Yoga with Lynn 5:00pm Youth Nite Out 9:15am Yoga with Lynn 7:00pm World Day of 4:00pm Redhot & Blue Prayer/St Andrew Cabaret

5:30pm TOPS 7:00pm Theology on Tap 8:00pm Men’s AA

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SATURDAY

19 8:15am Yoga with Lynn 9:15am Yoga with Lynn

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26 8:15am Yoga with Lynn 9:00am Confirmation @ Peter’s Retreat 9:15am Yoga with Lynn

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March 17, 2011

5:30pm TOPS 8:00pm Men’s AA

Snowy Sundays In the event of winter weather on a Sunday morning, our first priority is to ensure the safety of church members. If and when worship is canceled, notice will be posted on Channel 3 WFSBTV, and the voice mail greeting on the church phone will be updated with the cancellation if you choose to phone the main number. Additionally, an email and phone tree will alert church leaders to the same information. Cancellations will also be posted on the church website: www.rhccucc.org 17

1 Bill Hoffman Todd McGowan Bill White 2 Carole Christopher Sean Painter Rebecca Milles 3 Alice Weil Pat Gordon Grace Donahue 4 John Van Doran 5 Dick Lewis Tim Bishop 6 Percy Hall 7 Debbie Durgin Margaret Vassilopoulos 8 Dot Hunter Joan Dean Kevin Sudell 9 Colleen Schultz Jason Hall 10 Jennifer Knight 11 Sharon Calvo Cheryl Robbins Chase Corvo 12 Tim Dostie Todd Doten 12 Suzanne Speers Ryan Walker Isabella St. Pierre 13 Dick Somes Jackie Little 14 Mary D’Addario Lorraine Lewis David Bell 15 Alexander Ware

16 Shannon Vaillancourt 17 Kathryn Morgan 18 Gabriella Lopez Jim Bishop 19 Louise Tangarone 20 Sue VanNess Elaine Somes Charlotte Reed-Swale 21 Manuela Young Ryan Bengston Avery Ellegard 22 Gladys Carpenter Meghan Young 23 Marilyn Van Doran 24 Bea Donahue Janice Wine Sarah Mosure 25 Marion Hale Margaret White 26 Todd Pender 27 Ruth Bergengren Richard Sweezy Jr. Rebekah Van Epps 28 Gail Fu Lisa Siembab Nicole Graham 29 Katherine Burghoff Carol Jensen Laura Fell Erik Rousseau David Van Epps 30 Jayson Veley 31 Pat Hughes-Walworth Mark Walworth Jayne Bishop Jim and Lois Griswold were married on March 16, 1946 18

From the Council: On February 8th, we had wonderful, energetic participation in our brainstorming session to compile and prioritize some of the action items that have come out of our visioning process. Over 50 attended (and some of you participated the following Sunday by adding your “dots” and names to the lists of action items). Many will be involved in taking immediate action on some of these items, and we will be doing our best to keep everyone informed on our progress. All of the good things that emanate from our church community happen because of YOU!! So many members give generously and joyfully of their time, their talents and their treasures to make the work of our church move energetically forward. Together, we create a patchwork of activity and connection that embraces us all. As we work to further translate our vision into action, it is also good to note that there are many ways in which we are already living parts of our vision, through our activities and our caring for each other. In a recent sermon to us, Rev. Ayala said “If you have a vision, God will provide the things and the people you need to carry out that vision.” God is already working through us, and we pray for continued guidance.

We challenge ourselves to remember at all times that we are not in the business of attending committee meetings, we are in the business of changing lives by living God’s love both within and outside our church family. Please come to our Budget and Elections Meeting after worship on Sunday, March 20th to hear more about some of the ways in which we hope to change lives and live God’s love in the coming year. Ruth Fitzgerald for the Council 19

Vision 2010-2014 Rocky Hill Congregational Church United Church of Christ 1. We want to offer and receive extravagant welcome to all--long time members, new members, and visitors. 2. We want to be an active and engaged church, living our Christianity with vitality and energy. 3. We want to be a church of generous service, reaching out to help others as Jesus calls us to do. For some, this means locally. For others it means other places also. 4. We want to be a church centered in worship experiences that shape and form us as a community. 5. We want to be a church that shows our children and youth that they are a valued part of our church community in every way. 6. We want to be a church of joyful generosity, increasing our stewardship efforts to support ample staff and budget enabling us to be a vital, energetic, and growing community of faith. 7. We want to both preserve our traditions and build on the foundations that we particularly value, such as our music program, our long heritage, and our beautiful, historic church building. ___________________________________________

VOICE MAIL INSTRUCTIONS – If you call the church and the Voice Mail answers, you do not have to listen to the entire message. Anytime during the message you can have the call transferred directly to the person you are trying to reach by simply keying in the following numbers: Donna Manocchio, Senior Pastor 202 Carol Harvey, Office Secretary 201 Meghan Young, Acting Director CE 204 Will Kanute, Dir. of Music 207 Acting Assoc. Pastor Dick Webster, Sexton 205 20

NEXT STEPS ON THE JOURNEY FOR MEGHAN YOUNG Acting Christian Education Director and Associate Pastor Meghan D. Young has been accepted as a member-indiscernment by the Hartford Association’s Committee on Ministry. Over the next two years, Meghan will engage in a time of prayer and conversation with the committee, the church, and a mentor as she discerns God’s call to ordained ministry. In her letter to the Committee on Ministry moderator Ruth Fitzgerald outlined some of Meghan’s strengths and her ministry with and among the people of RHCC, UCC, stating “(Meghan) has a pastoral presence that makes people comfortable and able to share their fears and hopes, and she possesses a desire to call people of all ages to deeper faith and discipleship. Her ministry and presence have already stretched us in new ways of being the church, and we look forward to the ways she will continue to invite us to grow in the future. She is, we believe, an excellent candidate for ordination in the United Church of Christ.” In addition, the church requested that Meghan be granted authorization as a licensed pastor. The Committee on Ministry has granted licensure to Meghan, a status that is only granted for her ministry at RHCC, UCC. As a licensed pastor, Meghan will continue her work among us, and now can lead communion and perform baptisms, and conduct weddings and memorial services. We celebrate with Meghan these next steps in her faith and life journey, and for the affirmation she has received from the Committee on Ministry as she moves forward in this process. We look forward to continuing our walk of covenantal partnership with Meghan! How about a little equal-exchange for someone special?

“Around the world coffee and fellowship come together where we share community. A warm pot of coffee is often the centerpiece of fellowship hour and other gatherings.” Equal Exchange Coffee, Tea or Hot Cocoa would make an excellent gift! Why not pick some up after church this Sunday? During fellowship time in Chapin Hall, the Inreach Committee has available for purchase: Gourmet Coffee at $6.25, Tea at $3, Hot Cocoa Mix at $5. For more information about the UCC Coffee Project: www.ucc.org/justice/coffee-project 21

What Did You Do With Your Dollar? On January 23, Donna gave everyone in the sanctuary a dollar, and asked them to think about how they would spend that dollar – and their other dollars – in the coming weeks. Here are some of the stories and experiences from members of the congregation: “I keep the dollar in the clear section of my wallet. It reminds me to think about how I am spending my money, how I am using my treasure in service to God and others.” “I took that dollar and combined it with some of my other dollars and sent them to Church World Service, an organization that does wonderful work around the world.” “I passed by many things I would have usually purchased – coffee, snacks, etc. – with that dollar in my wallet. It made me think more intently about how I spend the money I have.” “I asked people to join with me in pooling our dollars and donating them toward a renovation of the youth room for the children and youth.” “While it turned out there were too many logistical problems, we thought we could add some dollars to the one we received and purchase something that could be raffled off to the members of the congregation. With the money raised, we could sponsor a writing contest in the high school, and the winner would be sent to an important historical landmark.” “We worry a lot about money – do we have enough? How will we provide for our children? I’m keeping the dollar in my wallet to remind me how blessed I am.” “I put my dollar back in the offertory plate the following week.” I purchased a shamrock for Muscular Dystrophy.” “I took the dollar, added nine of my own, and donated them to the effort for renovating the youth room.” “I still have my dollar, and waiting for the right time and place to donate it.” Do you have a story about your dollar that you’d like to share? Please be in touch with Donna and let her know! 22

From the Trustees… An important note regarding the open Sexton position. Trustees will accept applications for the open Sexton position from Tuesday, March 1, 2011 through Sunday, March 20, 2011. Interested parties should provide a resume and cover letter documenting their interest and any relevant information about their qualifications. Please leave these in the Church Office in an envelope addressed to “Trustees, Open Sexton position”. Interviews of qualified applicants will be conducted in late March and April (if required).

NEWS FROM THE FAIR COMMITTEE After a few months break, the Fair Committee is hard at work planning our 2011 events:  Spring Breakfast & Plant Sale - April, 30, 2011.  Memorial Day Parade refreshment sale - May 30, 2011.  Fall Church Fair - October, 22 or 29, 2011.  More information on the above events will follow shortly. Our 2010 events generated $17,222.81 for our church. The Fair Committee has recommended to the Board of Trustees that the dollars be distributed as follows:  $1,000.00 for new tables.  $1,000.00 to missions for Back Bay Mission trip or other needs of the Mission’s Committee.  $500.00 to Christian Education for the youth room.  The remaining dollars to be used ($14,722.81) for the 2010 - 2011 budget. The success of the Fair Committee events is due to the hard work of the Committee plus the commitment and participation of our church family. With this in mind, we are asking for plants and flowers donations for our Spring Plant Sale. Also, if you would like to help with any of 2011 events, please talk to a Fair Committee member. More to follow in next month’s Church Mouse. “GOD BLESS YOU”

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Ladies Brunch on the Silas Deane Hwy in Rocky Hill Sunday, May 1st @ 12:30 pm Cost: $25.13 includes tax, tip and all you can eat. Tickets should be purchased in advance by Sunday April 24. The cost of beverages is not included – beverages need to be purchased separately at the brunch event. The Inreach Committee will be selling tickets in Chapin Hall each Sunday in April. Checks should be made payable to RHCC Inreach Fund. You may also contact: Joan Ross Joan Tennyson (860) 563-5397 (860) 529-8789 [email protected] [email protected] We closed purchasing on 100-110 Earle Street. These units are NetZero Energy Homes. These homes produce on site about as much energy as it uses. Solar panels and geo-thermo heating and cooling are just two examples of these unique energy efficient homes. We will be receiving some grants to offset our initial costs. We received two much needed grants: A Hartford Foundation $40,000 technical grant for a new computer system at our offices. A $75,000 Health Care Grant from the Universal Health Care Foundation which will help needy families with their health care needs. DaMaris Whittaker has been named state co-chair of our Inter-Faith Fellowship which is part of the Universal Health Care Foundation. DaMaris has been a staff member of CAC for several years. Our theme for Adventures in the City Summer Program for 2011 is “Staying Healthy: Health IS Life!” We have started fundraising for this much needed summer educational program. If you would like to donate to this cause you can make out your check to “CAC” and earmark it to Adventures in the City and mail it to: 47 Vine Street, Hartford CT 06112. Respectfully submitted, Rich Pawlich Pagliccio, Delegate and Member Board of Directors 24

From the Scholarship Committee Each year, our church awards college scholarships which are funded by investment returns from the Scholarship Endowment Funds. Applicants should be members of Rocky Hill Congregational Church, active members of one of its youth organizations, or active participants in the life of the church. Awards are based upon church and community involvement, demonstrated scholastic achievement, financial need, and the completion and submission of a scholarship application form. Scholarships may be awarded for up to four years of undergraduate studies. Recommendations on scholarship recipients are made by the Scholarship Committee, whose members are appointed by the Board of Trustees. This recommendation is then subject to the final approval of the Trustees. Graduating high school seniors and returning college undergraduates who are seeking a church scholarship for the 2011-2012 academic year should obtain an application from the church office or from the web site, rhccucc.org and may be submitted electronically. Please complete and return it prior to April 15, 2011. Scholarship awards will be announced in June.

Scholarship Directory Available A directory of scholarships that are available to college-bound students in the 29-town Greater Hartford region is now available from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Students can pick up a copy of the directory from their school guidance office or you can access it online at www.hfpg.org/scholarships, or call the Foundation to obtain a copy. Frank Roswell Fuller was born in Hartford on August 23, 1873 and attended local public schools. He went to New York City and later formed his own company at 40 Wall Street known as Fuller & Company, which operated from 1904 to 1920. When he retired he came to live in West Hartford. He died on March 1, 1957. His will, probated in the Probate Court for District of Hartford, established a substantial scholarship fund. Mr. Fuller was always interested in helping “needy, deserving” students obtain the education that he had not been able to enjoy himself. There will also be application packets in the church office. Remember to file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to federal processor by March 1. You may obtain a FAFSA application from your high school guidance counselor or at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The deadline for submitting your application and other documents is May 15th. 25

Sundays 9:15 – 9:45am / Fiorilli Room March 13, 20, and 27 April 3 and 10

Wednesdays 6:45 – 7:15pm / Fiorilli Room March 16, 23, and 30 April 6 and 13

Wednesdays, 12:30 to 1:30 PM in Fiorilli Room Each week, we gather to read and explore the Scriptures to be used in an upcoming worship service. All are welcome. No experience necessary. Bring your favorite translation or pick one up from the shelf. Brown bag lunch is optional. Tuesday, March 8 at 8:30 AM We will meet this month at BOB’S COFFEE SHOP, 33 New Britain Avenue in Rocky Hill. Come join us for coffee, conversation, and community! Theology on Tap Thursday, March 10 at 7:00 PM Chuck’s Steakhouse Are you interested in sharing questions and experiences about God and God’s presence in your life? If so, come and join with other church members and friends in the “back room” of the Chuck’s Steakhouse. We discuss a different topic each month, so join us whenever you can. Bring a friend and see you at Chuck’s! Contact Donna ([email protected] or on FACEBOOK) if you have questions, want to suggest a topic, or can join us for a gathering.

Women of the Bible Thursday, March 17 at 7:00 PM in the Fiorilli Room Join with other women to explore the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, Luke chapters 1 and 2. As we seek to understand the meaning of God’s word and work in our lives and in our world. Come and pray, read, talk, laugh, and eat together! 26

Join us for Pot Luck Dinner and a Movie Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 6:00 PM in Chapin Hall The film showing is Easy Virtue starring Colin Firth, Kristin Scott Thomas, Ben Barnes and Jessica Biels. The cast brings Noel Coward's witty comedy of manners magnificently to life in "deliciously cheeky" adaptation from director, Stephen Elliott. When British playboy, John brings his new wife, Larita - a race car-driving feminist from Detroit - home to meet the family at their country estate, pretty much everyone's expectations are disappointed. His snooty mother is offended by Larita's carefree American ways, while Larita does everything she can to get her mother-in-law to loosen up, which only annoys her even more. John's sisters have diametrically opposed feelings about their new sister-in-law, but his father is intrigued to have finally found another who sees through the family's facade- and takes great perverse pleasure in watching his wife meet her match.

An Evening with Susan Campbell Come spend an evening with Susan Campbell. Enjoy hearing her thoughts on Social Justice, her spirituality, her book Dating Jesus and her life working at the Hartford Courant. Light refreshments will be served.

Offering: $25-35

When:

Where:

Thursday, March 31, 2011 6:00 pm-8:00 pm

Holy Family Retreat Center Conference Room 303 Tunxis Road West Hartford, CT 06107

Registration Forms:

Located in Chapin Hall or On the table across from the church office Susan Campbell is the author of Dating Jesus and is an award-winning columnist at the Hartford Courant, where her work has been recognized by the National Women's Political Caucus, New England Associated Press News Executives, the Society for Professional Journalists, the American Association of Sunday and Feature Editors, the National Society of Newspaper Columnists, and the Sunday Magazine Editors Association. Her column about the shootings at lottery headquarters in March 1998 was part of The Courant's Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage. The mother of two adult sons, she has a bachelor's degree from University of Maryland, and a master's degree from Hartford Seminary, and she lives in Connecticut with her husband. 27

Rocky Hill Congregational Church ROCKY HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 805 Old Main Street, Rocky Hill CT 06067 Telephone # 860 529-4167

Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Rocky Hill, CT Permit #7

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED TIME VALUE MAIL Mailed March 3, 2011 Jesus didn’t turn people away. Neither do we. The United Church of Christ: No matter who you are, Or where you are on life’s journey… You’re welcome here.

The 2011 World Day of Prayer Service

“How Many Loaves Have You?” Friday March 4 at 7pm St Andrews Church in Rocky Hill is hosting this year The women of Chile invite us to ponder the context of Chile and the real situations of our lives and communities. They ask, “What are your gifts?” “What can you share?” They ask us to reflect on the meaning of the theme “How Many loaves

have you?” We hope to see you there. The world is in need of our prayers. A volunteer is needed from RHCC to participate. Please contact Marge Murk 860-563-0025 or [email protected] for further information.

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