CONNECTIONT H E C O R N E R S T O N E

REGULAR PEOPLE IMPACTED BY A GREAT GOD

2009 • DECEMBER • 2009

Meet John and Molly Cappawanna

This month we’ll get to know more about Johnand Molly Cappawanna, who found Cornerstoneand each other via the Internet. John’s dad was

in the Navy, and the family moved quite often—John’slived in six states—Georgia, where he was born, NewMexico, California, Colorado, Florida, and Pennsylvania.“It’s made it very easy for me to make new friends andadapt to new places,” John says. “I spent my formativeyears in Los Alamitos, California (Orange County). Growingup near the beach was great. I loved being able to jumpon a bus and go to the beach or Disneyland. My parentsdivorced when I was a freshman in high school, so Ilearned to be independent and take control of my life. I’veworked since I was 12.”

“I lived in Duncannon until I was 19, graduating fromSusquenita, and then moved to Georgia to go to college,”Molly says. “After that I lived in Washington, D.C., Atlanta,and New York City, working as a nanny. I returned to Dun-cannon when I was 29.”

As a branch manager with Citizen’s Bank, John says heloves “helping customers reach their dreams and aspira-tions. I can affect a customer’s life. And I work with manybusinesses on how to expand and work their daily opera-tions.” Molly works two days a week in the Accounting/HRarea at The National Civil War Museum.

Family lifeThe Cappawannas have one daughter, Sophia Quinn, 5. “Ifeel blessed that God gave me a child,” John says. “I neverthought I’d be so blessed, and I also never knew how itwould change my life. Each day is different and new and Isee life through her eyes. I love watching Sophia singwhen she doesn’t know I’m watching her.” Molly adds, “Iam reminded constantly of the good example I need to setas a Christian for Sophia. She doesn’t miss a trick!”

“We are very close with my parents and see or talk tothem every day,” Molly says. “They are very influentialbecause we have a common goal of raising Sophia in aGod-focused home.” John adds, “Sophia is a planner, justlike me. She certainly likes things her way and I can bethat way too.”

Completing the family is their dog, a seven-year-old boxernamed Devlin, and Pinot, their 10-year-old cat, plus theCappawannas have three fish in their pond.

John values his relationships with Molly’s family. “I amvery close with my brother-in-law, Jesse Boyer, and my in-laws, Jess and Sharon Boyer. They are all truly blessings.”Molly adds, “My family and friends are also very importantaspects of my life. My brother is the funniest person Iknow. I have kind of a weird sense of humor and healways gets me. We just enjoy spending time with my fam-ily and friends and feeding them!”

The God connectionJohn and Molly have been coming to Cornerstone abouttwo years. “It’s amazing how fast the time has gone,”Molly says. “I enjoy the fellowship. We have made somereally great friends here. I hadn’t been to church for about15 years and I wanted Sophia to have the experiencegrowing up going to church that I did. I had always felt

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like I knew God, but since connecting at Cornerstone, it’sas if a wall has been broken down and I now have a rela-tionship with God, a much deeper sense of God, and He isthe center of all I do.”

“Molly really did the research and found Cornerstone,”John says. “She went one week and said what a greatplace it was, so I went the next week. I haven’t stopped.Cornerstone is home. Pastor Mike has become a very goodfriend of ours since we were in his small group, and weare now leading the Digging Deeper small group. We lovethe message and the vision of Cornerstone. We havebecome very close to many people here at Cornerstoneand love where our relationships are going.

“Knowing that God comes first has been a great lesson forme,” John continues. “The people at Cornerstone haveshown me how to live my life every day for God. I wasaway from God for a long time, 20 years or so. I knowGod never left me—I left God. He has a plan and is in con-trol, and every day is a teaching and learning lesson. WhenI lost my job I didn’t see a lesson to be learned. Meetingwith our small group led me to understand the lesson andlearn from my mistakes. Putting God first and living forGod certainly is a blessing. I value my relationship withGod. He is first in my life. It isn’t an activity, it’s a lifestyle.

“I have a passion for the things I care the most about,”John says. “My friends and family know that I am honestand will tell them the truth, although that’s not what theyalways want to hear. Going through the book of Ecclesi-astes has opened my eyes. A verse that has stuck out tome is from Chapter 7: 21, 22, ‘Do not take to heart all thethings that people say, lest you hear your servant cursingyou. Your heart knows that many times you yourself havecursed others.’”

John continues. “I wish I had known Molly 20 years agobut God had a plan and it’s been great. I wouldn’t changeanything about my life because my past events have mademe into the person I am today. Being away from God did-n’t make me happy, but being back with God has made allthe difference.”

Molly agrees. “I, too, value my relationship with God firstand foremost. God has definitely blessed me with a won-derful husband and daughter as well as a great family andfriends! Most recently God blessed my life when John losthis job. I know it doesn’t sound like a blessing, but when ithappened I ended up being excited at what God wasgoing to teach us! God certainly provided all our needs.We grew closer to Him and spiritually closer together as afamily. We realized what is important and that God shouldalways get the credit. It was an awesome four months!

“I see evidence of God’s direction most now than anyother time of my life and that is because I am giving it allto Him,” Molly says. “Literally, every decision I make I pray

for God’s guidance and direction. I know He won’t steerme wrong.“

Cornerstone activitiesJohn comes out to Cornerstone on Monday nights for bas-ketball, and is a member of the new Benevolence Team.Molly is part of the Caregiver Team. They both would liketo see a ministry or group started for people at Corner-stone who fall in the 30–40 age group. John says, “Youhave the 20 Somethings and you have the Over 50s. Ithink there should be something for the 30s and 40s.”Molly thinks a choir would be great too.

Getting personalAlong with Cornerstone’s pickup basketball, John playsgolf when he gets some time on his days off. But, like Molly,his priority is time with his family. “I love to relax in ourbackyard with a fire going, and play the Wii with the fami-ly.”

“As a team, we are awesome at Rock Band! “claims Molly.“John watches pretty much every sport, but I enjoy mixedmartial arts (UFC) and I love going to hockey games. Ireally enjoy entertaining, throwing parties, cooking, etc. Iam a foodie and love fine dining. Anything with white orblack truffles, foie gras, cheese—the stinkier the better!”Despite her love for food, Molly recently read a bookabout fasting. “I learned so much about the power of fast-ing and the importance of living a fasting life,” she says.

Being creative and loving any kind of design, Molly is look-ing forward to having a room finished in their home as astudio so she can paint. On the other hand, she’d “like tobe able to look at our house, which was my great-grand-parent’s home, and not have a project to complete!”

John’s food faves include anything Italian and Mexican. Heloves Will Ferrell movies—Old School and Elf are favorites.Outside of Christian artist Matt Maher, John likes listeningto Michael Buble, Maroon 5, and Train.

With his Italian heritage, John would like to travel to Italyand see where his relatives are from. Being a Disney fan,and having lived in both Orange County, California andOrlando, Florida, he wants to share Disneyland and Dis-neyworld with Molly and Sophia.

Molly has been to Vancouver, British Columbia and MuirWoods, California, “two of the most beautiful places onearth. I would love to return to both places some day.”

The end is the beginningBack now to the Internet and how John and Molly gottogether. John had just gotten out of the Air Force andwas living in Sacramento, while Molly was working as ananny in Atlanta. Internet chat rooms were becoming pop-ular, and they connected in a chat room back in 1996 and

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Meet John and Molly Cappawanna

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became friends. They stayed in touch and remainedfriends as their lives and locations changed. John takes upthe story. “In 2002 Molly was living in Duncannon and mybrother was getting married in Shiremanstown. Molly andI decided to meet in person for the first time. I wouldn’tsay it was love at first sight, but there was intrigue. Afterthe wedding I was moving to Orlando, and Molly and Istarted to date, long distance. For about 18 months wewould fly to visit every six weeks and have a long weekendtogether. We had to make a choice of where to live andhave a family. Since I didn’t have any family in in Orlandoand Molly had a lot of family in Duncannon, it was an easychoice. We were married in 2004, but our journey startedmuch earlier.”

Parting words“God is first in our lives,” John says. “It’s something thatwe don’t take for granted. Each day is truly a blessing andwe are thankful to God for each day we get.”

A Christmas alphabet

A is for Angel, shining and bright, telling of Jesus thatfirst Christmas night.

B is for Bethlehem, crowded and old, the birthplace ofJesus, the prophet foretold.

C is for Cattle, their manger His bed, their trough forHis washing, God’s star overhead.

D is for David, his long-ago throne God promised for-ever to Jesus alone.

E is for East, where men saw the star, and rode ontheir camels to follow it far.

F is for Frankincense, myrrh and fine gold that thewise men gave Jesus. (In Matthew it’s told.)

G is for God, who so loves ev’ry one that He sent usfrom heav’n His own beloved Son.

H is for herod, whose murderous schemes were told tothe wise men, and Joseph, in dreams.

I is for Infant, taken by night with His mother, far fromthat wicked king’s sight.

J is for Joseph, quiet and just, who obeyed all God’sorders with absolute trust.

K is for “The King of Jews”-to-be. “But we’ll worshipHim now,” said the wise men three.

L is for Love that brought Him to earth and made Him forever our brother by birth.

M is for Mary, His mother, so brave in believing Godfaithful and mighty to save.

N is for Night, most holy and still, when heav’n proclaimed peace to all of good will.

O is for Omega, it tells Jesus’ station—with Alphabeyond and before all creation.

P is for Prophets who saw Jesus’ story in visions ofBethlehem, Calv’ry and glory.

Q tells how Quickly the shepherds who heard hastenedto act on the heavenly word.

R is for “Rejoice!” with God’s friends old and new—Mary, the shepherds, the wise men and—you!

S means Salvation, prepared by the Lord in the Saviorwhom Simeon and Anna adored.

T says to Tell the good tidings to all, like the shepherds,who told of the Child in the stall.

U stands for to Us God has given the Child born ofMary, the Son sent from heaven.

V means the Virgin, from the earliest ages, pictured instars and in prophecy’s pages.

W is for Wonderful. That’s the Lord’s name, for with wonderful works and words He came.

X is for “Christ,” when in Greek it is read “He’s yourSavior and Lord,” the angel said.

Y is for Yes to all of God’s ways, like Mary, whose “Yes”filled her spirit with praise.

Z is for Zeal that burned in God’s Son from His child-hood years ‘til His work was done.

Christmas Eve Service

Join us on Christmas Eve at 6pm as we celebrate Christ's

birth! This is not the traditional Christmas Eve service, but a look at what Christ-mas has become, and what it is really all about. The evening will be filled with music, skits, videos, and a live Nativity. Bring family and friends to Cornerstone this Christmas!

Empty pockets never held anyoneback. Only empty heads andempty hearts can do that.Norman Vincent Peale

Let’s go for a drive

Load up the car! Grab your family and friends andbring them to a Christmas event that will be sure totouch their hearts! On December 20, 21, and 22

our church parking lot will be transformed into the littletown of Bethlehem. Drive through and follow the mostexciting story ever told, the story of our Lord’s birth. Gatesopen 6:30–8:30pm each evening. This is a free event, andyou’ll even receive some treats! See you there!

Plans are coming together—thank you to all who areinvesting time and energy in preparing for this event. It’san exciting time for us, and we still have lots to do to getready! So, if you’d like to be in costume for the event,greet people at the Welcome Center, help with sceneryconstruction and painting, be a part of the traffic controlteam, bake food items, provide firewood for our sites, orhave a camel (or two!) for us to use—please contactSarah Tech (sarahmtech@yahoo.com or 578-3327).

Here are a few important items to take note of:

Thursday, December 3 & 17 @ 7pm—Rehearsal datesfor all those involved with the Nativity. Everyone who isgoing to be a part of the Nativity should attend these twomeetings. On December 3, we will walk you through whatyou can expect for the event, and on December 17, wewill have a dress rehearsal to practice for Sunday’s open-ing night.

Props such as old crates, barrels, jugs, baskets, fakefruit/bread/vegetables, hay bales, scarves, wooden chests,beads/jewelry, wool, blankets, etc. can be dropped offbeginning Sunday, December 13 at the church and placedin the designated storage area in the utility room. Pleasebe sure to mark your items so that they are returned toyou at the conclusion of the Nativity.

If you would like to help by baking cookies for the Nativity,please contact Barb Bardole or Sarah Tech. Cookies shouldbe pre-bagged (two per bag) and delivered to the churchkitchen by Sunday, December 20.

December 6 happens to be one of ourCommunion Sundays, and we will take aspecial offering for our Benevolence Fund.Here’s the Benevolence article again tohelp explain what the Benevolence Fund isall about.

Just what is the BenevolenceFund?June Smith

Benevolence, according to Webster, is an inclination or tendency to do kind or charitable acts.

Cornertone recently established a Benevolence Committee.

Committee members learn of a need through Pastor Mikeor Pastor Dan, Patti Salisbury, the church secretary, orfrom someone within the church or community. Peoplemay be in a temporary financial bind from losing a job,dealing with a major health issue, needing their homerepaired, or some other unexpected expense.

Through prayer and discussion with each other and theconcerned parties, the committee members—John Cappa-wana, Vicki DeLellis, Tony DeLellis, Pastor Dan Hammar-berg, Crystal Groff, and June Smith—decide if this issomething the benevolence money could and should beused for and the amount of money to give. Each request ishandled personally by the committee and always givenvery careful consideration so we’re good stewards ofGod’s resources. Whenever possible, the BenevolenceCommittee will also try to connect people with other agen-cies that can help with their specific needs if they are orthey become ongoing situations.

We replenish the Benevolence Fund through the specialofferings taken on the Sundays we have communion (usu-ally quarterly), which is apart from our regular offering.And anyone can make donations to the Benevolence Fundduring the regular Sunday offerings. Just note that onyour church envelope, a separate envelope, or on yourcheck the amount that is to go to the Benevolence Fund.

Thank you for your continuing support to the BenevolenceFund! There are many needs to meet and limitedresources. Please feel free to contact any of the committeemembers if you have questions or if you know someonethat we could help.

If your cup runneth over, share some.

I trust that no loving thought goesunnoticed, even when I do not seeimmediate gratitude or behaviorchanges in the other person.Lee Jampolsky, Ph.D.

New evening Bible studyoffered

Do you ever stop to think how you will be remem-bered after you are gone? Will it be as a lovingwife, a nurturing mother, a faithful Christian, a

loyal friend? Just as King David of the Old Testament isremembered as a “man after God’s own heart,” in thistopical Bible study Elizabeth George is going to teach youhow become a “woman after God’s own heart” … andhow you can find balance and fulfillment in the criticalareas of life that matter most. This 10-week study wasrecently used for the daytime Bible study, and will now beoffered on Tuesday evenings from 7–9pm, beginningJanuary 12. Check the Information Kiosk for a sign-upsheet.

WOMEN’S MINISTRIES

Moms with a MissionJennifer Handke

Hey, moms! Our next meeting is Tuesday, Decem-ber 15 from 10am–noon at the church. Child-care is provided. (Thank you, Jaynie and Eliza-

beth!) We’ve been having GREAT discussions and gettingto know each other better each month. If you are a momwho is at home during the day, please join us. We’d love tomeet you or get to know you better. Our group changeseach month depending on whose little one is not feelingwell, who decided to sleep on a different schedule, or whohad too crazy of a morning (but don’t let that keep youaway!). Come as you are and know that you will findfriendship and understanding from one mom to another.

Ladies’ Christmas Tea

It’s time to celebrate the joy of the Christmas season atan evening tea on Tuesday, December 8 from7–8:30pm at Cafe Cornerstone (church lobby). This

year Marsha Snyder from Dellville UM Church will sharewith us “His Indescribable Gift.” All ladies are invited togather in fellowship with our sisters, mothers, daughters,and dear friends for hot and cold beverages, light refresh-ments, and plenty of Christmas tea. Be sure to invite yourfriends and family as we celebrate the greatest gift of all.There is a sign-up sheet in the Information Kiosk in thechurch lobby.

Wilt thou quilt?

The Tuesday morning quilting/sewing classes are taking aholiday break and will

resume in January. If you like to sew or quilt or make crafts, or would like to learn, join the group on Tuesday mornings at 10am at Kathy Morris’ home. Contact Kathy (579-0565 or bkmmorris@aol.com) for info or directions.

Women’s retreat 2010On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stoodand said in a loud voice, ‘If anyone is thirsty let himcome to me and drink. Whoever believes in me as theScripture has said, streams of living water will flow fromwithin him.’ John 7:37-38 “Come, Drink, and Be Satisfied” with your Christian sistersat a women’s retreat at Camp Hebron in Halifax Febru-ary 12–14, 2010. A pastor’s wife, Bible teacher, confer-ence speaker, and soloist for 34 years, speaker Ruth Dun-kle brings a motivational style and humor to her message.She and her husband, Rev. Jeff Dunkle, currently serve theLord at Manheim Grace Brethren Church.

Rachel Moury and Lisa Shoemaker will lead the worshipportion of the retreat. Rachel recently completed her firstrecording, entitled Turning To You, a compilation ofhymns and modern worship music. Rachel helps lead wor-ship and Lisa, a piano teacher, accompanies the choir atWest Shore Evangelical Free Church in Mechanicsburg.

Cost: $110/person (3–4/room); $135 (2/per); $145 (1)For more information, contact Camp Hebron (896-3441or www.camphebron.org).

New year, new study

The next morning women’sBible study will begin onThursday January 7 from

10am–noon. Start the new year offright with God’s Word. Childcare provided.

I cannot do everything, but I canstill do something.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

Children’s fellowship groupsBrilliant Beginners—for kids 3 to 5 years oldStephanie Morris, leader

Pebbles—for kids K thru grade 3Darla McNaughton, Jess Phillips, leaders

Rocks—for kids grade 4 thru 6Bonnie Morrison, Randy and Jessi Lentvorsky, Dean and JoAnnAdkins, Rich Baum, Joey Gallagher, Kevin Wilson, Randy and DebMorrison, Brian and Tracy Jones, leaders

Children’s Ministry TeamMonica Foster • Children’s Ministry Director

Crystal Groff / Pam Moore / Krista Hess / Bonnie Morrison / Jim and Cindy Dersham / Jan McDonald / Ruthann Kyler

Count me in!Monica Foster, Children’s Director

We are always looking for volunteers with the Chil-dren’s Ministry. There is something for everyone,including teaching, helping with scheduling, and

organizing curriculum. Keep the Children’s Ministry in yourprayers as we continue to build our team and get dedicat-ed teachers and leaders. Please contact Monica Foster(monicalynn27@hotmail.com or 275-3429) if you areinterested in volunteering. Thanks!

Coming eventsWednesday December 9—recording our caroling nightfor the nursing home

Wednesday December 16—Christmas party and gamesfor all families

Wednesday, December 23—no activities scheduled withthe kids/families

Saturday, December 19—”Drop and Shop” 9am–1pm—Child care will be provided for parents to do last-minute Christmas shopping. Please let Monica know if youare interested in using this time so we can plan volunteersappropriately.

Keeping busy

December will be busy withthe Nativity, parties, caroling,and much more! Stay tuned

for more info coming in the next fewweeks. The Children’s Ministry will bescheduling team meetings and parentclasses after the holiday season.

Posted

All Children’s Church schedules will be done for the first six months of 2010 and posted

on the church Web site at the end ofDecember.

Don’t ask “What if it doesn’t work?” instead, ask“How will I feel if i don’t even try?”Suzanne Zoglio

it’s amazing what can happen if you just put your armaround somebody. It’s the truest and simplest thingthat does the most good a lot of times.Julia Roberts

Give up complaining … focus on gratitude.Give up harsh judgments … think kind thoughts.Give up worry … trust divine providence.Give up discouragement … be full of hope.Give up bitterness … turn to forgiveness.Give up hatred … return good for evil.Give up anger … practice patience.Give up pettiness … put on maturity.Give up gloom … enjoy the beauty that is around you.Give up jealousy … pray for trust.Give up gossiping … control your tongue.Give up sin … turn to virtue.

Attitudes are contagious. Is yours worth catching?

Over 50—but not over the hill

Join the Over 50s for their monthlybreakfast at the

Ranch House on Tues-day, December 21 at 9amfor good food and good conversation. That combi-nation can’t be beat!

The Over 50s Group is going to the “The Christmas Can-dle,” an original stage play based on Max Lucado’s book,on Sunday, December 6 at 3pm at the Christian LifeAssembly. If you’d like to carpool, meet at the Bennetts’house at 1:45pm. If you pre-ordered your ticket and ARENOT planning to carpool, contact Dolores Bennet or PattiSalisbury at the church office for your ticket. After the play,stop at the Bennetts’ for the annual Christmas gatheringwith dessert and coffee. Bring a handmade gift for the“just for fun” gift exchange and a dessert or snack toshare. Expect to have lots of fun! Contact Dolores Ben-nett (957-2829 or bennetts@countryilink.net).

Changing the Chicks

The Christian Chicks’ arerevamping themselves andwill offer more varied

outings. The Women’s Ministry plans more in-depth Bible studies on Tuesday evenings off-season of the Journey Groups. (See related arti-cle on the Women’s Ministry page.)Charlotte Barrett will also be lead-ing a weekly women’s devotional at7pm on Wednesday nights.

Contact Michelle Truitt (mltruitt@countryilink.net or 582-2663) formore information.

LET’S GET TOGETHER

A negative attitude is like a flat tire. You’re not goingfar unless you change it.

Advent breakfast

Food and entertainment—a winning combination! AllCornerstone ladies are invited to Otterbein UMChurch’s annual Advent Breakfast on Wednesday,

December 2 at 9:30am. Guest speaker Judy Smitley, awonderful Christian dramatist, usually appears as awoman of the Bible and takes you back in time with her,and makes you think she IS the character. There is tea andbreakfast baked goods during the fellowship time, withspecial music and singing Christmas carols. If anyone isinterested in going, please contact Dolores Bennett(957-2829 or bennetts@countryilink.net).

Party time

The Redeemed/Tech Team Christmas

Party is Saturday, December 5 at 6pmat Bonnie Morri-son’s house. All the usual stuff—bring your significant other, a covered dish,and a gift to swap (two gifts if you’re bringing someone).Gifts should not cost more than $5 and gag gifts arealways welcome.

God is always thereThe man whispered, “God, speak to me,”and a mead-owlark sang. But the man did not hear.

So the man yelled, “God, speak to me,” and the thunderrolled across the sky. But the man did not listen.

The man looked around and said, “God, let me see you.”And a star shone brightly. But the man did not see.

And the man shouted, “God, show me a miracle.” And alife was born. But the man did not notice.

So the man cried out in despair, “Touch me, God, and letme know You are here.” Then God reached down andtouched the man. But the man brushed the butterfly awayand walked on.

God is always around us in the little and simple things thatwe take for granted … even in our electronic age. Don’tmiss out on a blessing because it isn’t packaged the waythat you expect.

Taking a break

The How to Study the BibleClass is taking a break afterDecember 2 while Pastor

Mike is on vacation (December 9 and16) and for the holidays.

Reputation is what people think about you. Characteris what people know you are.

Take a stand. Make a move. Start a revolution.Take a stand. Make a move. Start a revolution.YOUTH AT CORNERSTONE

Honor roll—1stmarking periodSusquenita School District

DISTING.HONORS HONORS

12th GRADEJeniece Goshorn XShelby Kennedy XNatalie Knowles XJoseph Pagliaro XJacob Pomeroy XJonathan Sanville XMackenzie Shultz XBrittany Tietje X11th GRADEKatie Clay XMatt Montis XShane Rowe XCourtney Tietje X10th GRADEBrittany Britcher XBritt Morrison XStephanie Pagliaro XAmy Shearer XAustin Sheibley XAnnika Shultz XJessi Swartz X9th GRADEJesse Gates X

Youth Ministry TeamMegan Latchford • Youth Director

MaryAnn Camacci / Steve Peck / Josh Martin / Sarah Tech / Scott Weber / Nicole Shumaker / Megan Abruzzese / Aaron Jumper / Barb Bardole

Old, broken, or in-between

Broken cell phone? Old ink jet cartridges? We’ll take them off your hands. As an ongoing fundraiser, the Youth at Cornerstone are collecting old cell

phones, ink jet printer cartridges, MP3 players, and digitalcameras. Any condition (working, falling apart, or some-where in between) will do. Our first shipment of 84 printercartridges and 40 cell phones made well over $100. Dropoff any “donations” in the box in the church lobby.

Ongoing activitiesGoing Deeper Small Group • Thursdays @ 7pmLife Hurts, God Heals Small Group • Tuesdays @ 5:30pmStudy Hall • Wednesdays @ 5pmDealing with Divorce • Monday, December 14 @ 7pmVolleyball practice • Tuesdays @ 7:30pm

Wacky, tacky Christmas party

Remember that Christmas sweater Aunt Ethel gaveyou last year that you buried in the back of yourcloset, hoping it would spontaneously combust?

It’s time to bust it out! What? You don’t have an AuntEthel that gives you bad sweaters? That’s ok! On Wednes-day, December 16 the youth will have a “Tacky ChristmasSweater Party” from 7–9pm. Borrow a tacky Christmassweater (you know the ones) from your mom or head tothe thrift store to pick up one of your own. We’ll also bedoing our annual gag gift exchange. Buy a gag gift for $2or less (or bring something from home), wrap it up, andjoin in the fun!

We’ve got a winner!

Congratulations to the Outra-geous Orange Ostrichesfor their victory at Fall Fren-

zy 2009! We had more than 100teens come through our doors duringthe month of October for a wildmonth of fun, games, giveaways, andmore! As a prize, the Orange team willbe headed to Laser Dome on Satur-day, December 5. Thanks to everyonethat helped out in October! We could-n’t have done it without you.

Check us out

Check out the Youth pages onthe church Web site—we’vegot the latest information,

new pictures and videos, and more!

Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. Thegreatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.Henry FordI am only one, but I’m still someone.

Remember to pray for …• our church• our Elders and Leadership Team• our men and women serving in the

armed forces• Darlene Miller• John Weibley• Henry Via• Joan Rudy• Helen French• Missy Parrish, Dee and

Leny Parrish’s daughter-in-law• Vickie Zeiders, Frank Hall’s daughter• Sharon Wilson• People who have lost jobs, homes,

and hope

Worship helpersDecember 6 • Guest Reception Sunday (meet the Cornerstone staff)Greeters (9am) Rock/Rich & Lisa Nearhood/Roger Hockenberry/Angie Black

(10:30am) Rock/Roger & Lisa Hockenberry/Sandy Freysinger/Charlotte BarrettUshers (9am) Frank/Rock/Ken Black/Randy Lentvorsky/Paul Handke/Tony DeLellis

(10:30am) Frank/Rock/Brandon Steckley/Tim Snow/Rob Morris/Dean LuciaNursery (9am) Maureen Cleaver/Jenna Lock/Veronica Ressler

(10:30am) Lauren Haines/Mackenzie Shultz/Elizabeth GroffCh. Church (2–3 yrs.) Jessica Phillips/Crystal BrennemanCh. Church (4–5 yrs) Alicha AbayaCh. Church (1st–3rd) Stephanie Livelsberger/Arielle HouckCh. Church (4th–6th) Sandy & Dorcas Elliott/Monica Foster (worship leader)Hospitality Diane Shearer/Michelle Finger/Sue Martinez (Meet the Staff)Set-Up Crew Matt Foster’s teamRedeemed Bonnie/David/Jason/Keith/Steve/Lauren/CrystalDecember 13Greeters (9am) Rock/Kevin Wilson/Lisa Laird/Roger Hockenberry/Angie Black

(10:30am) Rock/Roger Hock/Dennis & Kim Hutcheson/Gretchen BickingUshers (9am) Frank/Rock/Ken Black/Randy Lentvorsky/Paul Handke/Tony DeLellis

(10:30am) Frank/Rock/Brandon Steckley/Tim Snow/Rob Morris/Dean LuciaNursery (9am) Sue Martinez/Jerry Myers/Krista Hess

(10:30am) Angie Black/Nicole Fry/Brooke MorrisonCh. Church (2–3 yrs.) Rochelle Lenker/Lea FosterCh. Church (4–5 yrs) Alicha AbayaCh. Church (1st–3rd) Phyllis Lohr/Arielle HouckCh. Church (4th–6th) Sandy & Dorcas Elliott/Monica Foster (worship leader)Hospitality Patti Salisbury/Kristen Heller/Sandy FreysingerSet-Up Crew Jim Dersham’s teamRedeemed Bonnie/Pete/Scott/Cobrette/Jeff/Keith/Katie/Kelly/Dee/CharlieDecember 20Greeters (9am) Rock/Roger Hockenberry/Rich & Lisa Nearhood/Angie Black

(10:30am) Rock/Roger Hockenberry/Maureen Cleaver/Marcia Stoner/Kendra MartinUshers (9am) Frank/Rock/Ken Black/Randy Lentvorsky/Paul Handke/Tony DeLellis

(10:30am) Frank/Rock/Brandon Steckley/Tim Snow/Rob Morris/Dean LuciaNursery (9am) Sue Smiley/Valerie Crist/Teresa Carroll

(10:30am) Casey Dersham/Karen Hockenberry/Ashlyn McNaughtonCh. Church (2–3 yrs.) Jason & Cindy UrichCh. Church (4–5 yrs) Alicha AbayaCh. Church (1st–3rd) Ruthann Kyler/Arielle HouckCh. Church (4th–6th) Sandy & Dorcas Elliott/Dolores Bennett (worship leader)Hospitality Wendy Hoffer/Jen Ebersole/Lynn BrennemanSet-Up Crew Steve Smiley’s teamRedeemed Bonnie/Pete/David/Jason/Keith/Steve/Crystal/Lauren/SueDecember 24 • Christmas Eve ServiceGreeters Rock/Rich & Lisa Nearhood/Maureen Cleaver/Angie BlackNursery Jim & Cindy Dersham/Charlotte BarrettHospitality Patti Salisbury/Jerry Myers/Nina CollinsSet-Up Crew Matt Foster’s team (set-up)December 27 • Newsletter SundayGreeters (9am) Rock/Roger Hockenberry/Allyson McCollum/Carol Wilfong/Pam Hoover

(10:30am) Rock/Roger Hockenberry/Angie Black/Deb Morrison/Pam HooverUshers (9am) Frank/Rock/Ken Black/Randy Lentvorsky/Paul Handke/Tony DeLellis

(10:30am) Frank/Rock/Brandon Steckley/Tim Snow/Rob Morris/Dean LuciaNursery (9am) Jim & Cindy Dersham/Katie Hammarberg

(10:30am) Melanie & Hayley Boyer/Courtney SmithCh. Church (2–3 yrs.) Jen Ebersole/Krista HessCh. Church (4–5 yrs) Alicha AbayaCh. Church (1st–3rd) Michelle Finger/Arielle HouckCh. Church (4th–6th) Sandy & Dorcas Elliott/Monica Foster (worship leader)Hospitality Patti Salisbury/Jerry Myers/Nina CollinsSet-Up Crew Matt Foster’s team (tear-down)Redeemed Nancy/Pete/Scott/Cobrette/Jeff/Charlie/Kelly/Pam/Heather/Katie

Just a reminder to everyone on the list—your commitment to serve isimportant. If you’re scheduled and can’t be there, PLEASE ASK SOME-ONE TO FILL IN FOR YOU. Thanks!

Wednesday Family NightsDecember 2Hospitality Lynn BrennemanNursery Lauren Haines/Casey DershamDecember 9Hospitality Jerry MyersNursery Jerry Myers/Sue MartinezDecember 16Hospitality Barb BardoleNursery Mary Stump/Casey DershamDecember 30Hospitality Sue MartinezNursery Lisa Rowe/Crystal Groff

Needing prayer?

Cornerstone’s prayer ministry, headed by Michelle Truitt,

meets the second Thurs-day of every month at 7pm in the Green Room. Do you have a heart for this ministry and feel led to pray for the needs of the Cor-nerstone congregation, the commu-nity, and the world? Join Michelle andothers and lift our concerns in prayer.

Special “lifetime offer—free unlim-ited air time.” Call me.God

Love is one things that multiplieswhen we give it away.Gloria Burgess

If you worry, don’t pray. If you pray, don’t worry.

O happy day!

When you see someone who has a birthday oranniversary this month, wish them a happy day,or send them a card. It’s nice to be remembered

on your special day. If your birthday or anniversary wasn’tlisted, please let Pam Hoover know the date and you won’tbe missed next time.Dec 1........Dean LuciaDec 7........Tim SanvilleDec 11......Bonnie MorrisonDec 12......Nina CollinsDec 14......Jeff ShearerDec 17......Steve PeckDec 24......Deb Morrison, Rebecca

PagliaroDec 27......Jade WilsonDec 28......Karen Wilson, Stephanie

Pagliaro, Andres Herrera, Christa Heller

Dec 30......Samuel GroffDec 31......Tim Groff

CONNECTING AT CORNERSTONE

I do, I do!Dec 6........1st Greg and Denise SmithDec 9........20th Tim and Carol SanvilleDec 13......29th Vicki and George DeLellisDec 20......6th Jeff and Patti Salisbury

Are you interested in receiving Cornerstone’s monthly news-

letter, being added to the

In the know

Church directories containing the names, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail

addresses of everyone who regularly attends Cornerstone are available on the Information Kiosk in the church lobby. The Directory also includes a “business direc-tory.” If you own a business or have skills/talents you’re willing to share with the Corner-stone family, get listed! Submit new or omitted information to PamHoover (phoover405@aol.com or829-5211). The Directory is updatedeach month.

e-mail distribution list, or to the church directory? Theseresources are a great way to keep up with Cornerstoneevents, learn more about Cornerstone, and to make con-tact with other church attenders and members. Please stopby the Welcome Center kiosk to sign up for what you’reinterested in! You may also provide your information toPam Hoover (phoover405@aol.com) or Patti Salisbury(cornerstonecc@embarqmail.com) and you’ll get con-nected!

Check out the church Web site—www.cornerstone-efca.com. Information for the Web site should be sent to thechurch office at cornerstonecc@embarqmail.com.

Everything you need to know

Right inside the main entrance is our Informationkiosk. Greeters are nearby before and after church

if you have questions about anything at Corner-stone or if you’re looking for a sign-up sheet. Visitors canfill out our Connection Card and pick up a welcome gift.The Information Kiosk serves as the main information cen-ter on Sunday mornings and throughout the week. Checkit out! You’ll find Announcement Sheets, the weekly PrayerGuides, sign-up sheets, extra newsletters, Youth Group an-nouncements, church directo-ries. offering enve-lopes, and numerous other brochures and pamphlets. Stop by during the week and pick up any needed information!

The miracle is not in the oak tree,but in the potential of the acorn.

A man’s got to do what a man’sgot to do. A woman must do whathe can’t.Rhonda Hansome

WORLD/COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Meet the need

Our local food bank always welcomes donations for the

many families going through tough times. Place your donations in the purple plastic tubs in the lobby, and we will deliver them to the Food Bank.

December needs are:

instant potatoes, peas, Ramen noodles, Jello, pud-ding, stuffing mix, and personal products such assoap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper,and paper towels. The food bank is accepting frozenturkeys so if you have an extra one, please put it inthe church freezer, marked for the food bank, andwe’ll get it to them.

Angel Food Ministry

For the month of December, the Angel Food Ministrydistribution site is at the Bread of Life Warehouse(BOLO) in Newport instead of the Family Life Cen-

ter. The distribution dates are one week earlier this monthtoo because of the holidays. December orders are due byFriday, December 4 and distribution day is Saturday,December 12. Menus are available in the church kiosk.The Angel Food Ministry is a low-cost monthly meal pro-gram and anyone can utilize this convenient (andyummy!) food provider.

Order sites are:1st Monday of the month—Duncannon Senior Center,

High Street, Duncannon—9–11am1st Tuesday of the month—New Buffalo Alliance,

Routes 11/15, New Buffalo—6–7:30pm1st Wednesday of the month—Duncannon EMS, Route

274, Duncannon—6–7:30pm1st Thursday of the month—BOLO Warehouse, 35

North Front Street, Newport—6–8pmMonday–Friday—Newport Assembly of God, 253

North 6th Street, Newport—8am–3pm

We’re on a mission——to serve GGod while serving others.

Christmas Dinner/House Tour

Habitat for Humanity is hosting a Christmas Dinnerand House Tour in Duncannon this year at thehome of John and Kathleen Zogby, 1227 North

High Street. Tickets are $30/person. Seatings are Friday,December 18 at 6pm; Saturday, December 19 at 6pm;and Sunday, December 20 at 1pm. Tickets are available bycontacting Mid Savercool at 589-3581.

Adopt-A-Family

We are once again partnering with the Susque-

nita School District in providing gifts for children of families in need of a Merry Christmas. Help to put a smile on a child’s face on Christmas morning by select-ing one (or more) stars from our Christmas Tree and pro-viding the gift item listed on the star. Look for the tree inthe church lobby. Place gifts by the tree in the lobby byDecember 6 so we can distribute them to families Decem-ber 11 and 12. Please leave the gift items unwrapped, sothat the parents can see the gifts before giving them totheir children. Donations of wrapping paper and bows arewelcome. Questions? Contact Sarah Tech (sarahmtech@yahoo.com or 578-3327) or Michelle Finger (215-6405 or shellfinger@yahoo.com). Thank you!

Copy that!

Xerox is doing something cool—go to the Web sitewww.LetsSayThanks.com, and pick out a thankyou card. Xerox will print it and send it to a service

person who is currently serving in Iraq. You can’t choosewho gets it, but it will go to a member of the armed serv-ices.

Tell everyone you know to send one! It is FREE and onlytakes a second. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our servicemen and women received a bunch of these? Whether youare for or against the war, our soldiers need to know weare behind them.

This takes just 10 seconds and it’s a wonderful way to saythank you. Please take the time, and then pass it on toothers. We can never say enough thank you’s.

“Cheer”leading

Join the Evangelism Team in spreading some holidaycheer! On Saturday, December 12 at 9am, come toMutzy’s and help hand out rolls of ribbon and

scotch tape as we advertise for the Drive-Thru Nativity andwish the community a Merry Christmas. Contact PastorDan or Sarah Tech with questions.

The Christmas invitation

It was the biggest night of the year in a little town calledCornwall. It was the night of the annual Christmas pag-eant. It’s an especially big deal for the children in

town—they get to try out for the roles in the Christmasstory. Everybody wants a part.

Which leads us to the problem of Harold. Harold reallywanted to be in the play, too, but he was … well, he waskind of a slow and simple kid. The directors were ambiva-lent—I mean, they knew Harold would be crushed if hedidn’t have a part, but they were afraid he might mess upthe town’s magic moment. Finally, they decided to castHarold as the innkeeper—the one who turns Mary andJoseph away the night Jesus is to be born. He had onlyone line—“I’m sorry, we have no room.” Well, no onecould imagine what that one line was going to do toeveryone’s Christmas …

The night of the pageant the church was packed, as usual.The Christmas story unfolded according to plan—angelssinging, Joseph’s dream, and the trip to Bethlehem. Final-ly, Joseph and Mary arrived at the door of the Bethleheminn, looking appropriately tired. Joseph knocked on theinn door, and Harold was there to open the door.

Joseph asked his question on cue “Do you have a roomfor the night?” Harold froze. After a long pause, Haroldmumbled his line, “I’m sorry—we have no room.” And,with a little coaching, he shut the door. The directorsheaved a sigh of relief—prematurely. As Mary and Josephdisappeared into the night, the set suddenly started

shaking again, and the door opened. Harold was back!And then, in an unrehearsed moment that folks would notsoon forget, Harold went running after the young couple,shouting as loud as he could, “Wait! Don’t go, Joseph.Bring Mary back! You can have MY room!”

I think little Harold may have understood the real issue ofChristmas better than anyone else there that night. Howcan you leave Jesus outside? You have to make room forJesus. And that may be the issue for you this Christmas.What will you do with this Son of God who came to earthto find you?

Jesus is the One who trades a throne room for a stable,and the praise of angels for human mockery. This is theCreator who gives Himself on a cross! The Bible gives usthe only appropriate response: “The life I now live I live byfaith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himselffor me.” (Gal. 2:20) You look at what Jesus did to pay foryour sin on that cross, and you say those life-changingwords—“For me.”

Jesus is at YOUR door this Christmas. Maybe He’s beenknocking for a long time. Maybe He won’t keep knockingmuch longer. All your life—even the events of the last fewmonths—have been to prepare you for this crossroadsmoment with Jesus, your Savior. Don’t leave Him outsideany longer. Open the door this Christmas Day. “Jesus, Icannot keep You out any longer. Come on in. You canhave my room … my life.”

Many happy returns‘Twas the day after Christmas

and all through the roomStrewn wrappings were crying

for use of a broom.

The children were scatteredthe friends’ gifts exploring

Since now most of theirswere broken or boring.

All tummies still stuffedfrom the fabulous feast;

Leftovers would servefor one month at least.

And mama and papawere the countryside ranging,

Those unwanted giftsreturned or exchanging.

Yes, Christmas is pastwith its bustle and noise—

Sales and carolsSantas and toys.

Decorations are packed the yule tree’s discarded

The holiday’s overjust as we got started

To celebrate peaceand the meaning of giving

To discover real love and the purpose for living.

Dear Jesus, please help usto stop and remember

That you came to earthnot just for December.

But from birth in a mangerto death on a cross

You gave up your gloryand counted it loss.

So now as we trust You—God’s only Son—

The real celebrationhas only begun!

Copyright 2007 Dave Veerman.

Free community breakfast

People say the best way to star a new day is with ahearty breakfast. On the third Saturday of eachmonth, Cornerstone is offering a FREE community

breakfast. OnDecember 19from 8:30–10:30am we’lloffer variousbreakfast menuitems and drinks.Bring your familyand friends andconnect with oth-ers at Cornerstoneand in our com-munity. Free wire-

less Internet and cable TV will also be available. Don’t missout on this opportunity to connect! For more information,contact Chuck Stoner (834-3430 or charles.stoner@gmail.com) or Katie Hammarberg (215-4032 ordhammarberg@gmail.com).

Skipping class

Check out our Web site at www.cornerstone-efca.com.

We’ve added a page for the “How to Study the Bible” class. If you can’t fit this class into your schedule or miss a week, Pastor Mike’s class is recorded each week and made available on CD or you can listen to it on the Web site. Look under [Com-munications & Media] and at the bottom of that page is“How to study the Bible.” Click on the link and open thesermon player to access the week you want to hear.

Cleaning for a reason

There is a cleaning service available that providesFREE housecleaning once a month for fourmonths for women currently undergoing chemo

treatments. Women can sign up at http://www.cleaningforareason.org and have their doctor fax a note confirmingthe treatment. “Cleaning for a Reason” will have a partici-pating maid service in their local zip codes area arrangefor the service.

Please pass this information on to bless a woman goingthrough chemo treatments. This organization serves theentire United States and currently has 547 partners to helpthese women. It’s our job to pass the word and let themknow that there are people out there that care. Be a bless-ing to someone and pass this information along.

Encounters of the heartMaureen Cleaver

My husband Dwain decided to give me a very spe-cial birthday gift this year—attending the FamilyLife’s “Weekend to Remember” marriage confer-

ence next year on February 12–14. I understand severalCornerstone couples have been to this annual event in thepast. I spoke with MaryAnn Camacci and Bonnie Morrisonwho said it was a very worthwhile experience. Dwain and Ihad been to a marriage encounter weekend years ago andfound it was truly a blessing in strengthening our maritalrelationship.

The group rates and the registration fee drop down from$258/couple to $178/couple if five or more couples regis-ter together as a group. Food and hotel rooms are notincluded. Dwain and I would be more than willing to coor-dinate the registration process to get the group rate. If youthink you might be interested and want to check thingsout, the Web site is www.familylife.com. At the top of thepage click on the green tab that says “conferences.” In thepeach-colored box click on the “location” tab, then type inyour zip code.

If you know other couples that may want to participateand be a part of the CCC group, feel free to share thisinformation. Try to let me know in the next few days if youwould like to attend. Even if you are not 100 percent sureabout going, still let me know it is a possibility (834-6647or 497-2620).

Smile

It’s time to revamp theCornerstone Web siteand we want your smil-

ing face to be a part of it.On Thursday, December10 from 5–9pm we’ll behaving Cornerstone’s firstphoto shoot for the Website and other churchmaterials. We need allages! Dress casually and be ready tosmile and laugh. Stop in any time forpictures and snacks!

Cornerstone Christian Church, an Evangelical Free Church • Michael Jarrell, pastor • Dan Hammarberg, associate pastor595 New Bloomfield Road • Duncannon, PA 17020 • 717.834.4641 • cornerstonecc@embarqmail.com

Come connect with us! • Route 274 two miles west of DuncannonVenture—9am • Fellowship—10am • Worship—9am and 10:30am

Questions, comments, or information, call 829-5211 or e-mail phoover405@aol.com • Pam Hoover, editor

God is good—all the time!Cornerstone Christian Church is truly blessed. Pray for God to continue to bless us as we follow His will.

ATTEND. OFFERING BUILDING FUND BENEV. MISC.

November 1 467 $9,049.59 $235.00 $150.00 $503.00November 8 422 $7,723.23 $602.00 $197.00 $102.00November 15 433 $7,445.24 $295.00 $268.00 $72.00November 22 464 $6,802.72 $250.00 $200.00 $557.00

Building Fund pledges as of November 22 $297,906.73

For your health

If you are up for a good workout, Leny and Dee Parrish

lead an aerobics class at Cornerstone on Monday and Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30pm and Satur-day mornings from 10 to 11am. There is also pick-up up basketball onMonday nights, and flag football andvolleyball on Saturdays (volleyballpractices on Tuesday nights). So getup, get moving, and get healthy!

Unemployment help

If you have been laid off from yourjob and have any questions aboutfiling or collecting unemployment,

Craig Pontz, assistant director for UIPrograms at the state Department ofLabor & Industry, has offered his help.Contact Craig during work hours at783-0605 or cpontz@state.pa.us.

Meet the church staff

Have you been a guest at Cornerstone during thepast few months? Would you like a chance tomeet the church staff? Pastor Mike, Pastor Dan,

Youth Director Megan Latchford, and Children’s DirectorMonica Foster are available on the first Sunday of everymonth after the 10:30 service in the Green Room. Takethis opportunity to ask questions, grab some refreshments,and get to know our staff members better!

All ears

Did you miss a Sunday sermonor just want to hear it again?Pick up a CD of recent Sun-

day sermons or order a specific ser-mon. The sermons are recorded eachweek and available on CD. See agreeter or pick one up from the Infor-mation Kiosk in the church lobby.We’ll gladly copy one for you if thesermon you want is not available.

Walking the walkPastor Mike

Iwould love to share with you a once-in-a-lifetime oppor-tunity. Pastor Dan and I are going to lead a trip to Israel,tentatively planned for November 2010. Each week as

we dive into God’s word we are filled with life, as scriptureteaches us and changes our lives and the lives of our fami-lies. We imagine what it must have been like to see Jesuson a boat in the sea of Galilee, or to walk through the cityof Jerusalem, to be in the upper room where Jesus hadcommunion with the disciples.

Well, now you can see the very places where these eventsand many more took place. We will “run” where Jesuswalked, covering multiple Biblical sights over about a weekand a half span, including the opportunity for a postextension trip to Egypt. We will have more informationsoon and meetings where you can ask questions andbegin to make payments toward this exciting opportunity.

God created company so the house would get cleaned.Rita Emmett