Chancel Choir Update 9/30: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir sings for the 10:50 a.m. worship service on Sunday. Call time is 10:20 in the Music Room. Anthem: Amani.

First Altos Bring Treats Next Week
The treats for next week's first of the month rehearsal party will come from the First Altos. Can't wait.

Holiday Brass Concert Tickets Going Fast
Tickets for this year's edition of the Holiday Brass are going fast. In fact, all tickets for the 2:15 p.m. performance are sold out. Tickets are$18 for seniors/students, $20 for adults. Each choir member can request one free comp ticket for one concert with seating in the Narthex. Susan Slaughter will be at the rehearsal next Thursday, Oct. 6, from 7 until 7:30 p.m. with tickets to sell. If you'd like to order tickets directly from the Holiday Brass website, here's the link: http://www.holidaybrass.com/prod01.htm

Choir Invited To Kingdom House Open House
The church's Outreach & Missions Team is inviting members of the Chancel Choir to attend an open house at Kingdom House tomorrow, Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. until noon.

Child Care For Chancel Choir Members
The church has resources available and is willing to provide child care for choir members during rehearsals, during worship on Sundays, and during concerts and other special events. Choir President Joe McMillien needs to know who might need child care in the future. If you would potentially use child care, please send him an email. Tell him when you'd likely use child care, how many children and how old they are. Also for everyone in choir, do you know anyone who would join Chancel Choir if child care was available? Tell Joe who they are. Take a moment to provide some feed back to Joe at: jmc976@att.com This will allow the church to determine if child care is needed for us.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Danelle Gruenloh remains hospitalized at St. Luke's Hospital for treatment of an infection following recent surgery. She is improving, but the family requests no phone calls or visitors. Cards may be sent to: P.O. Box 402, Saint Albans, MO 63073-0402.

Chancel Choir Update 9/27: News
Regular rehearsal this week. Plenty to do . See you there.

After Choir
Join us for After Choir this Thursday at Applebee's in Ballwin (in front of Lowe's) for snacks, beverages and visiting. After Choir is right after choir.

Child Care For Chancel Choir Members
The church has resources available and is willing to provide child care for choir members during rehearsals, during worship on Sundays, and during concerts and other special events. Choir President Joe McMillien needs to know who might need child care in the future. If you would potentially use child care, please send him an email. Tell him when you'd likely use child care, how many children and how old they are. Also for everyone in choir, do you know anyone who would join Chancel Choir if child care was available? Tell Joe who they are. Take a moment to provide some feed back to Joe at: jmc976@att.com This will allow the church to determine if child care is needed for us.

Great Retreat
We had a lot of fun over the weekend at our annual Chancel Choir retreat. And we actually learned a lot too. There was plenty of food and some good laughs. On Sunday we invaded Powell Hall singing on stage and roaming throughout the building sightseeing. We're sorry more people didn't join us on Sunday, you missed a good time. An album of photos from retreat weekend has been posted on the Chancel Choir's Facebook page and at Shutterfly. To view the photos either go to the MUMC Chancel Choir Facebook page or click on this link to Shutterfly:
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AZMWbhs3aNmdp

Bring St. Louis Themed Food To Help Cancer Patient
Chancel Choir Officers have agreed to support fund raising efforts for Amanda Curtis, daughter of church members Carla and Kevin Tobin, who is undergoing cancer treatment. The choir will prepare a food basked to be auctioned during a Trivia Night this Saturday. If you'd like to help, please bring a St. Louis themed food item to choir rehearsal Thursday.

Chancel Choir Update 9/26: Cares and Concerns
I was provided with an incorrect zip code for Mac Mcmillian's grandson. If you plan on writing a letter for Mac for him to read on the return trip of his Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. next month, please use the address details below. An attempt to mail a letter with the wrong zip code was rejected by the post office for one choir member this weekend. Here is the corrected address: Sean D. Jones, 3549 August Tavern Creek, Glencoe, MO 63038.

Chancel Choir Officers have agreed to support fund raising efforts for Amanda Curtis, daughter of church members Carla and Kevin Tobin, who is undergoing cancer treatment. The choir will prepare a food basked to be auctioned during a Trivia Night this Saturday. If you'd like to help, please bring a St. Louis themed food item to choir rehearsal this Thursday. If you would like to attend the Trivia Night, cost of $20 per person or $160 for a table of eight at 7 p.m. this Saturday, Oct. 1, at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church on Des Peres Road north of Manchester Road. Deadline for purchasing tickets is tomorrow (9/27) Call Carla Tobin at 314-401-4646.

Chancel Choir Update 9/23: News / Cares and Concerns
We're in the loft for the 10:50 a.m. worship service on Sunday. Call time is 10:20 a.m. in the Music Room. Music: Dona Nobis Pacem

Fall Retreat This Weekend
Yes, it's the annual Chancel Choir retreat. Yes, we do need treats as always. Bring your best snack. Lunch is "brown bag". We'll gather in Fellowship Hall at 9 a.m. on Saturday and again at 3:15 p.m. on Sunday at Powell Hall. There are no Friday night activities. Don't show up tonight cause we won't be there. Here are the details:

Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. -- Fellowship Hall
Sunday, Sept. 25, 3:15 - 5:30 p.m. -- Powell Hall

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Claudia Fallert's mother suffered a heart attach earlier this week.

Mac McMillian, Fran's husband, has been invited to participate in one of the Honor Flights for World War II veterans on Oct. 18. The program flies veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit the World War II Memorial. Part of that trip is a "mail call" on the plane during the return flight. If you'd like to send a letter to Mac for him to read on the plane, please send it to their grandson: Sean D. Jones, 3549 August Tavern Creek, Glencoe, MO 63018.

Here is a note from Soprano Carole Langley: “Thank you so much for your kindnesses during the past few months. Your get well wishes for Duane, notes of congratulations for our new grand daughter, and expressions of sympathy for the loss of my sister were all so kind and very helpful to us. And, may we also send special thanks for the beautiful plant? It is lovely and has brought us much cheer. Thanks again, Carole and Duane Langley”

Last week two families in Valley Park lost their homes and possessions in two house fires. Chancel Choir officers are asking the choir to help collect items for the families. A list of needed items appears below. Please place them in the collection box in the Music Room. We will collect items through this Sunday.

-- 3-6mo clothing for baby boy
-- 2T-3T clothing for TWO girls (ages 2 and 3)
-- size 5 clothing for boy
-- size 10/12 clothing for girl
-- baby formula - Enfamil AR
-- diapers - size 1/2 and size 4
-- size S/M shirts for two males
-- size M shirts for two females
-- size 32x30 pants for male
-- size large clothing for female
-- size 1x - 2x clothing for female
-- size large clothing for male
-- shoes, sizes: 2 youth (girl), 12 toddler (boy), 10 toddler (girl), 5 toddler (girl), 8 Women's, 8 Men's
-- gift cards: Schnucks, Shop N Save, Target, Walmart, etc.

Chancel Choir Update 9/20: News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal this week. Same time. Same place.

After Choir
Join us at The Corner Pub at Big Bend and Dougherty Ferry for After Choir right after choir this Thursday.

Fall Retreat
This weekend is our annual Chancel Choir retreat. Here's the schedule:
Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. -- Fellowship Hall
Sunday, Sept. 25, 3:15 - 5:30 p.m. -- Powell Hall
Our retreat is a little earlier than normal, due to some scheduling issues. We're also trying a new setup with Saturday and Sunday. There are no Friday evening activities for this year's Retreat. Stay tuned, as plans are announced. We'll be on the stage at Powell Hall on Sunday afternoon. No signups and no costs. It's a brown bag lunch on Saturday.

The Bridge Volunteers
Chancel Choir outreach chair Joan Lemen would like to remind the choir that the choir has agreed to provide staffing to serve lunch at The Bridge meal program at Centenary UMC on the third Wednesday of each month. A signup sheet to help is available in the Music Room.

Cares and Concerns
Last week two families in Valley Park lost their homes and possession in two house fires. Chancel Choir officers are asking the choir to help collect items for the families. A list of needed items appears below. Please place them in the collection box in the Music Room. We will collect items beginning this Thursday through Sept. 29.

-- 3-6mo clothing for baby boy
-- 2T-3T clothing for TWO girls (ages 2 and 3)
-- size 5 clothing for boy
-- size 10/12 clothing for girl
-- baby formula - Enfamil AR
-- diapers - size 1/2 and size 4
-- size S/M shirts for two males
-- size M shirts for two females
-- size 32x30 pants for male
-- size large clothing for female
-- size 1x - 2x clothing for female
-- size large clothing for male
-- shoes, sizes: 2 youth (girl), 12 toddler (boy), 10 toddler (girl), 5 toddler (girl), 8 Women's, 8 Men's
-- gift cards: Schnucks, Shop N Save, Target, Walmart, etc.

Chancel Choir Update 9/16: News
Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10:20 a.m. in the Music Room.

Fall Retreat
Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. -- Fellowship Hall
Sunday, Sept. 25, 3:15 - 5:30 p.m. -- Powell Hall
Our retreat is a little earlier than normal, due to some scheduling issues. We're also trying a new setup with Saturday and Sunday. There are no Friday evening activities for this year's Retreat. Stay tuned, as plans are announced. We'll be on the stage at Powell Hall on Sunday afternoon. No signups and no costs. It's a brown bag lunch on Saturday.

Chairs May No Longer Be Saved For Rehearsals
Kevin announced to the choir that the practice of saving chairs for singers not yet present for Thursday night rehearsals would no longer be allowed. The announcement at the conclusion of last night's rehearsal came after a lengthy discussion of poor behavior in the choir toward new members and others trying to find a seat now that rehearsal attendance is at an all time high. Officers related stories of some singers leaving the choir in recent years due to exchanges with members. And in fact, an angry bass was headed out the door at the start of rehearsal last night after being told to move by a second soprano. Other basses talked him into staying.

"We need to be more respectful of each other and remember why we are here," Kevin said. "In the 16 years I have been here I have not been angry many times, but this is one of them." He asked the choir to try to be more welcoming of new choir members and more tolerant of the varying singing skills of those seated around them. The action came after Chancel Choir officers agreed that the practice of saving seats needed to end and asked Kevin to make the announcement. In addition, a better system is needed for determining how many chairs are needed prior to concerts. Kevin said the issues on Sunday night resulted from not having a specific signup sheet circulated to reserve seats for the concert as he has in the past.

Do You Need Child Care?
The church has resources available to provide child care for Chancel Choir members during rehearsals on Thursday nights, during worship on Sunday morning, and during concerts and performances. But with no nursery available, singers are often prevented from participating in concerts because the must to take care of their children. This happened Sunday night and was brought to Chancel Choir officers during their meeting Thursday night. While resources are available, there has been no request to provide the service for the choir. "If we are going to attract younger choir members, we need to have this available and make it known," Joe McMillen, choir president, said. Officers asked him to poll the choir and see if the need was there and work to get child care available. Kevin said in past years, child care was made available, but was ended when parents would arrange for the service and not show up. "We'll need a reservation system and be certain to use the service or cancel." So, we need to know if you need child care? How many children? And what are their ages? If you do, please send a response to Joe McMillien at: jmc976@att.net

Help Needed To Serve Lunch At Centenary
This Wednesday, Sept. 21, is the regular time the Chancel Choir is committed to serve lunch at The Bridge meal program at Centenary United Methodist Church downtown. We need four persons to help. The group leaves the church at 10 a.m. and is back by 2 p.m. If you can help, please let the choir's outreach chair Joan Lemen know by replying to: joanlemen4@gmail.com

Information For New Singers Is Available On Choir's Website
If you're a new or a recent choir member and wonder about what the choir's procedures are, everything you need to know is posted on the choir's website. In fact, there's stuff there you don't need to know, but will find very interesting. Check at the website at www.chancelchoir.org or www.chancelchoir.com The "member section" contains the choir email update archives, operational information, the pictorial directory, and even the choir's favorite recipes. It is password protected. The Username is: mumsinger and the Password is: purplerobe Meanwhile, if you need to check out the procedures for new members, here's the direct link:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Notes/choirprocedures.htm

Birthday Surprise for John Ward
The choir has been asked to help celebrate former senior pastor John Ward's 85th birthday after church on Sunday. There will be a surprise reception in Fellowship Hall. We'll sing Happy Birthday to him as soon as we get our robes hung up and get upstairs.

Officers Discuss Business
The Chancel Choir officers covered a variety of topics at their meeting last night. Here's a summary:
-- The choir's activities fund balance is $14,509.23. Proceeds from the June Concert of Love fund raiser was $7,935. A 10 percent tithe of this net total will be contributed to the church, as required by choir fundraising policy. Officers will research making a contribution to a church in Joplin damaged by the recent tornado there.
-- A secure box will be added to the Choir Room for collection of offering envelopes on Sunday morning. If those envelopes can be left in the box when you first arrive on Sunday morning, they will be taken upstairs and given to the ushers when the choir goes upstairs to sing.
-- The issue of replacing the choir's white stoles was discussed. It was reported that new stoles would cost at least $17 each. Officers agreed this was too much to spend to replace them and our current stoles would remain in use. It was agreed that while they were discolored, from a distance they did not look that bad.
-- The choir had 138 people singing in the concert on Sunday, 9/11.
-- Kevin announced there would be two guest conductors working with the choir at the retreat next week.
-- Section representatives will begin follow up with the 16 choir members who have not reported in for the start of the new choir season.
-- The process of getting to know new and recent choir members that we used a few years ago will return. Chris Kennedy will select choir members and offer interesting information about them for the choir to guess their identity each week.

Chancel Choir Update 9/14: Clarification
Remember what it's like at holiday buffets when you find out that your eyes are bigger than your stomach? That's kind of what happened to us at the concert on Sunday night. Some ushers and church staff reported an audience of 1,700 people including 300 singers. It was a big night, but not that big. The final total attendance for the event was 1,364. That broke down to 1,126 in the audience and 238 singers. Since building is designed to seat a total of 1,200 we either did a good job of pew packing or we had a lot of skinny people attending. See you tomorrow night.

June Concert Recordings
The remaining CDs of the June concert will be available for pick up tomorrow night at rehearsal. Please claim yours and settle up if you haven't yet paid for those picked up earlier.

Chancel Choir Update 9/13: News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal this week. New fall music and other important stuff for sure. Be there.

After Choir
Join us at Kreigers at Big Bend and Highway 141 for After Choir right after choir this Thursday.

Fall Retreat
Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. -- Fellowship Hall
Sunday, Sept. 25, 3:15 - 5:30 p.m. -- Powell Hall
Our retreat is a little earlier than normal, due to some scheduling issues. We're also trying a new setup with Saturday and Sunday. There are no Friday evening activities for this year's Retreat. Stay tuned, as plans are announced. We'll be on the stage at Powell Hall on Sunday afternoon. No signups and no costs. It's a brown bag lunch on Saturday.

Amazing Concert Experience Sunday Night
It was a full house. The final count was 1700 which included about 300 singers. Excellent music, a great evening, an enthusiastic audience and the Bishop showed up -- what more could you ask for? Some photos appear below and are posted on the Chancel Choir's Facebook page.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Denelle Gruenloh will undergo surgery this afternoon (9/13) at Mercy Medical Center (formerly called St. John's).

Chancel Choir Update 9/9: Additional Cares and Concerns
I received the following note from Soprano Carole Langley some time ago. The message was misplaced until this afternoon. My apologies to the Langleys and the choir.

“You may remember that bass Duane Langley broke his hip in June and had to have a partial hip replacement. The good news is that he is doing really well and expects to be back to normal in a few more weeks. Other good news is the birth of a new grand daughter, Ellie Rose, born Aug. 18 to son Jim and daughter-in-law Missy. Ellie weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces is a beautiful, happy, healthy baby.

"There was also some bad news. Soprano Carole Langley's sister had a stroke at her home in Oklahoma caused by a huge "brain bleed." There wasn't much doctors could do at that point and she passed away on Aug. 28. The Langleys will go to Oklahoma for her interment.”

Chancel Choir Update 9/9: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10:20 in the Music Room.

Sunday's Celebration of Peace Concert
Combined rehearsal for Chancel Choir and In Unison Chorus begins at 5:30 p.m. There will be no dinner break, so eat early or late. We will wear robes for the concert which starts at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30.

Greece Trip Signup
A signun up sheet is available for those wishing to participate in next summer's trip to Greece.

Fall Retreat
Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. -- Fellowship Hall
Sunday, Sept. 25, 3:15 - 5:30 p.m. -- Powell Hall
Our retreat is a little earlier than normal, due to some scheduling issues. We're also trying a new setup with Saturday and Sunday. There are no Friday evening activities for this year's Retreat. Stay tuned, as plans are announced.

Signed Photo Presented To Kevin
Chancel Choir President Joe McMillen presented Kevin the birthday photo of the choir signed by choir members at the beginning of rehearsal last night. Photos appear below.

Jack Adams Thanked Choir
Rev. Jack Adams thanked the Chancel Choir for its participation in Mary Lou Adam's funeral service last Saturday. He said singing with the choir for the past 17 years was an enjoyment for Mary Lou and a blessing.

Cares and Concerns
It’s a new granddaughter for Soprano Shari Sevier. Piper Lee arrived Sept. 1 at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center weighing in at 6 lbs., 7 oz. Parents are Shari’s son Brian and his wife, Abbey, who is a neonatal nurse at St. John’s. Piper joins big brother Sam and big sister Lucy.

Chancel Choir Update 9/6: News
Regular rehearsal this Thursday. We'll prepare for Sunday's concert with In Unison.

After Choir
Join us at The Corner Pub at Big Bend and Dougherty Ferry for After Choir right after choir this Thursday.

Shhhhhhhh. They'll Be Recording
The Holiday Brass will have a second recording session this Thursday evening to record the Kirkwood Children's Choir in the Sanctuary. This session will be underway as you arrive for rehearsal Thursday night. Please keep noise down in the stairwell and Narthex.

Ushers Needed for Sunday's Concert
Ushers are needed for the Celebration of Peace concert this Sunday, Sept. 11. If you have a family member or friend who is willing to usher for the concert, please contact Diane Bunton at dianebunton@sbcglobal.net or 636-256-1984.

Celebration of Peace Concert on 9/11
Sunday, Sept. 11, 7:00 p.m. - This is a free concert. (An offering will be taken)
Music by Chancel Choir: Sing Out My Soul, How Great Thou Art, Kyrie, When I Survey
Music by Chancel Choir and In Unison: The God Who Gave Us Life (Testament of Freedom), Peace Like A River, I Want Jesus to Walk With Me, City Called Heaven, Praise His Holy Name. This will be a tremendous concert, with over 220 singers. We'll be accompanied by organ, piano, bass and drums. I'm expecting you to sing. Warmup for the concert will be at 5:30 p.m. in the sanctuary. It is our only combined rehearsal, so every second counts.

Fall Retreat
Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 25, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Our retreat is a little earlier than normal, due to some scheduling issues. We're also trying a new setup with Saturday and Sunday. There are no Friday evening activities for this year's Retreat. Stay tuned, as plans are announced.

Chancel Choir Update 9/2: Important News
No choir in the loft on Sunday.

Chancel Choir Will Sing At Funeral This Saturday
The Chancel Choir will sing at the funeral service at 11 a.m. tomorrow (9/3) for Mary Lou Adams. (A family visitation will begin at 9 a.m.) Warm up will be at 10:30 a.m. sharp in the Music Room. This will be the only time available to rehearse with the accompanist. John will direct us and he will have to quickly go upstairs to begin the service music. Be ready to sing at 10:30. The choir will wear robes and there will be time to get your robe after the quick rehearsal. We will sing River in Judea. Here is a message from John: “One of the greatest gifts a church community offers is its presence at the death of a loved one. This Saturday we will sing praises to God for the life Mary Lou lived and for her eternal life now in heaven. Please come and offer your ministry of service, love, and support on behalf of the Chancel Choir.”

Have a safe ands happy holiday.

Chancel Choir Update 8/26: News / Cares and Concerns
No choir in the loft this Sunday. No rehearsal next week, Sept. 1.

Big First Night Back to Choir
So many people flocked back to Chancel Choir on the first rehearsal of the new season that chairs had to be carried in. It was a great night of singing and getting reacquainted. The choir sang through music for the Celebration of Peace concert on 9/11. If you weren't there, we hope to see you at the next rehearsal on Sept. 8. No rehearsal next week. Some photos of the first night appear below.

Celebration of Peace Concert on 9/11
Sunday, Sept. 11, 7:00 p.m. - This is a free concert. (An offering will be taken)
Music by Chancel Choir: Sing Out My Soul, How Great Thou Art, Kyrie, When I Survey
Music by Chancel Choir and In Unison: The God Who Gave Us Life (Testament of Freedom), Peace Like A River, I Want Jesus to Walk With Me, City Called Heaven, Praise His Holy Name. This will be a tremendous concert, with over 220 singers. We'll be accompanied by organ, piano, bass and drums. I'm expecting you to sing. Warmup for the concert will be at 5:30 p.m. in the sanctuary. It is our only combined rehearsal, so every second counts.

Celebration of Peace Concert Poster
A pdf of the official poster for our joint concert with the St. Louis Symphony In Unison Chorus is attached to this email. Printed it out and pass it out.

Fall Retreat
Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 25, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Our retreat is a little earlier than normal, due to some scheduling issues. We're also trying a new setup with Saturday and Sunday. There are no Friday evening activities for this year's Retreat. Stay tuned, as plans are announced.

Cares and Concerns
Funeral services for Mary Lou Adams will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 3 in the Sanctuary. A visitation will precede the funeral from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. She died Wednesday (8/24) following a long illness. Chancel Choir will sing for the funeral service. Cards may be send to: Rev. Jack Adams, 196 Ameren Way, Ballwin, MO 63021. Suggested memorials: Manchester United Methodist Church, Epworth Children & Family Services, Kingdom House.

Chancel Choir Update 8/24: Death In Chancel Choir Family
It is with sadness we report the death of Alto Mary Lou Adams. She died early this morning following a lengthy illness. Funeral services are pending.

Chancel Choir Update 8/23: Important News / Cares and Concerns
It's back to work for the Chancel Choir. The first rehearsal of the season is Thursday night. Don't miss this important start of the year. Kevin will distribute all the necessary information and music for the fall. We'll see you at 7:30 sharp.

After Choir
Join us at Kreigers at Big Bend and Highway 141 for After Choir right after choir this Thursday.

Concert Recordings Available Thursday
Recordings of the June 5 concert will be available at rehearsal this Thursday. Please pick up your CD this week. Those who picked up their CD during the summer and still owe for it, please pay this week.

80 Attend Back To Choir Party
It was a balmy Saturday evening when 80 Chancel Choir members and guests gathered at the home of Bonnie and Gary Halls to celebrate the end of summer and the start of fall rehearsals. There was also a birthday cake for Kevin's 50th birthday. Photos are included at the bottom of the email update.

Fall Chancel Choir Startup Schedule
Thursday, Aug. 25 - Start-up rehearsal for the season
Thursday, Sept. 1 - No Rehearsal (Enjoy your Labor Day Weekend)
Thursday, Sept. 8 - Resume regular rehearsals
Sunday, Sept. 11 - Resume regular worship services

Celebration of Peace Concert on 9/11
Sunday, Sept. 11, 7:00 p.m. - This is a free concert. (An offering will be taken)
Music by Chancel Choir: Sing Out My Soul, How Great Thou Art, Kyrie, When I Survey
Music by Chancel Choir and In Unison: The God Who Gave Us Life (Testament of Freedom), Peace Like A River, I Want Jesus to Walk With Me, City Called Heaven, Praise His Holy Name. This will be a tremendous concert, with over 220 singers. We'll be accompanied by organ, piano, bass and drums. I'm expecting you to sing. Warmup for the concert will be at 5:30 p.m. in the sanctuary. It is our only combined rehearsal, so every second counts.

Fall Retreat
Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 25, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Our retreat is a little earlier than normal, due to some scheduling issues. We're also trying a new setup with Saturday and Sunday. There are no Friday evening activities for this year's Retreat. Stay tuned, as plans are announced.

Photos of Kevin's Surprise 50th Birthday Party
If you were unable to attend the big surprise birthday party for Kevin at The Bistro in Grand Center on Friday, a collection of photos has been posted both on the Choir's Facebook page and at the Shutterfly link below.
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AZMWbhs3aNmda

Cares and Concerns
It’s grandchild number four for Soprano Judi Burket. Penelope Rae Fox arrived Aug. 5 and weighed in at 6 lb. 11oz. and 19 inches long. She was born to Judi’s granddaughter, Rebecca, and her husband Jay Fox joining brother Parker who is 3 years old. All are doing fine. Judi says: “Because of my being on a cruise at the time of the birth, I haven't seen her yet, maybe tomorrow. Also, please pray for my daughter Pam who is having hand surgery on Tuesday which will make it rather difficult in the next 7-8 weeks to handle the daily rigors of caring for her 2 biological and 7 adopted children at home. Praise the Lord!”

Chancel Choir Update 8/19: Choir Party Information
Back To Choir Party This Saturday Night
The Chancel Choir fall kick-off party will be at 6:00 p.m., this Saturday, Aug. 20 at the home of Alto Bonnie and Gary Halls at 219 Meadowbrook Country Club Estates. A map is shown below. The entrance to the Meadowbrook Country Club is on Clayton Road, just east of the intersection of Clayton and Kehrs Mill Road. Go through the country club entrance and follow Meadow Brook Country Club Estates to the left. The Halls house is beyond the Club House. If you get lost, call this number and we'll talk you in: 314-265-6036. This is one of our famous potluck dinners, so bring your best dish to share. And you will need to bring lawn chairs. This is also a great time to invite potential new choir members to check us out. We'll see you Saturday. This will be the social event of the season. You can never tell what might happen.

Chancel Choir Update 8/16: News
Final Summer Dinner This Week At Lester's
This is the final call for the final traveling summer dinner of the season. We'll be at Lester's on Clayton Road just east of Baxter at 6:30 p.m. this Thursday, Aug. 18. If you'd like to join us, we'll need your reservation by noon tomorrow, Wednesday, Aug. 17. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749.

Back To Choir Party This Saturday Night
Summer is almost over. The kids are headed back to school. And that means it's time to fire up the Chancel Choir for yet another season of amazing music. The Chancel Choir fall kick-off party will be at 6:00 p.m., this Saturday, Aug. 20 at the new home of Bonnie and Gary Halls at 219 Meadowbrook Country Club Estates. A map is shown below. The entrance to the Meadowbrook Country Club is on Clayton Road, just east of the intersection of Clayton and Kehrs Mill Road. Go through the country club entrance and follow Meadow Brook Country Club Estates to the left. The Halls house is beyond the Club House. If you get lost, call this number and we'll talk you in: 314-265-6036. This is one of our famous potluck dinners, so bring your best dish to share. And you will need to bring lawn chairs. This is also a great time to invite potential new choir members to check us out. We'll see you Saturday. This will be the social event of the season. You can never tell what might happen.

Chancel Choir Update 8/12: News
Summer Choir In The Loft This Sunday
Join us in the loft this Sunday at the 10:50 a.m. worship service when the "pickup" summer choir sings. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 a.m. for a quick warmup.

Final Summer Dinner Week At Lester's
The final traveling summer dinner of the season will be at Lester's on Clayton Road just east of Baxter, at 6:30 p.m. next Thursday, Aug. 18. If you'd like to join us, we'll need your reservation by noon, Wednesday, Aug. 17. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749.

Summer Potluck Set For Aug. 20
Our annual summer (back to business) pot luck will be on Saturday, Aug. 20, at the home of Alto Bonnie Halls. Details and directions will be provided next week.

Chancel Choir Update 8/10: Death In Choir Family
It is with sadness we report the death on Tuesday (8/9) of Albert Vendt, father-in-law of Barb Vendt. Funeral services are at 10 a.m. Saturday (8/13), at Christ Lutheran Church in Webster Groves. Visitation is from 4 until 8 p.m. Friday (8/12) at the Jay B. Smith Funeral Home on Manchester Road in Maplewood. Cards may be sent to: 1231 Chavaniac Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011.

Chancel Choir Update 8/9: News
Summer Dinner This Week At The Royal Buffet in Ballwin
The traveling summer dinners stops at the Royal Buffet in Ballwin this Thursday, Aug. 11. Located in the former location of Longhorn Steakhouse this restaurant has a huge selection of both Asian and American food. It is excellent -- as good or better than Emperor's Palace in the Valley. It's on Manchester Road next to the Ballwin Post office. If you'd like to join us, we'll need your reservation by noon tomorrow, Wednesday, Aug. 10. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749.

Summer Choir In The Loft This Sunday
Join us in the loft this Sunday at the 10:50 a.m. worship service when the "pickup" summer choir sings. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 a.m. for a quick warmup.

Summer Potluck Set For Aug. 20
Our annual summer (back to business) pot luck will be on Saturday, Aug. 20, at the home of Soprano Bonnie Halls. Details and directions will follow.

Rehearsals Resume on Aug. 25
Rehearsals for the fall season resume a week earlier than originally planned. We'll get back to business on Thursday, Aug. 25, preparing for the concert to mark the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 tragedy. We'll be joined by the St. Louis Symphony's In Unison Chorus for the concert on Sunday, Sept, 11 in our Sanctuary.

Chancel Choir Update 8/4: News
Summer Choir In The Loft This Sunday - Wear Sneakers
Join us in the loft this Sunday at the 10:50 a.m. worship service when the "pickup" summer choir sings. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 a.m. for a quick warmup. Kevin is asking everyone to wear sneakers this Sunday in honor of Sneaker Sunday. Bring a friend or prospective choir member with you. The summer choir will also sing on Aug. 14.

Next Summer Dinner At The Royal Buffet in Ballwin
The traveling summer dinners will be at the Royal Buffet in Ballwin next Thursday, Aug. 11. Okay, this restaurant opened earlier this year in the former location of Longhorn Steakhouse to mixed reviews . We checked it out a couple of weeks ago and the food is as good or better than Emperor's Palace in the Valley. There's a huge selection of Chinese, Italian and American dishes along with a stir fry bar. The place is clean, bright, and fun. So that's where we'll be this Thursday. It's on Manchester Road next to the Ballwin Post office. If you'd like to join us, we'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, Aug. 10. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749.

Concert Recording Are Completed
Recordings of the June 5 Concert of Love are completed. The CDs will be available for pick up on Sunday in the Music Room. The CDs are $10 each. Make checks payable to Gary Ford.

Summer Potluck Set For Aug. 20
Our annual summer (back to business) pot luck will be on Saturday, Aug. 20, at the home of Soprano Bonnie Halls. Details and directions will follow.

Rehearsals Resume on Aug. 25
Rehearsals for the fall season resume a week earlier than originally planned. We'll get back to business on Thursday, Aug. 25, preparing for the concert to mark the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 tragedy. We'll be joined by the St. Louis Symphony's In Unison Chorus for the concert on Sunday, Sept, 11 in our Sanctuary.

Chancel Choir Update 8/2: Important News
Change of Location For Thursday Dinner in Kirkwood
Thursday's traveling summer dinner in Kirkwood has been moved to an alternate location. The dinner will be held at the Jefferson Grill at 127 West Jefferson, just one block west of Kirkwood Road on Jefferson. We'll meet at the Jefferson Grill a 6:30 p.m. for a great dinner in a private room with a great menu. There is plenty of parking in adjacent lots. We're the same two blocks from the band concert in Station Plaza. If you wish to join us, we'll need your reservation by noon tomorrow, Wednesday, Aug. 3. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. As an added optional bonus, Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will play in the Kirkwood Station Plaza just up the street following dinner. If you'd like to go there to hear the band after dinner, you should bring along a folding lawn chair.

Summer Choir In The Loft This Sunday
Join us in the loft this Sunday at the 10:50 a.m. worship service when the "pickup" summer choir sings. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 a.m. for a quick warmup. Bring a friend or prospective choir member with you. The summer choir will also sing on Aug. 14.

Concert Recording Are Completed
Recordings of the June 5 Concert of Love are completed. The CDs will be available for pick up on Sunday in the Music Room. The CDs are $10 each. Make checks payable to Gary Ford.

Cares and Concerns
Former MUMC senior paster Carl Schenck has been named dean of students at Eden Theological Seminary in Webster Groves. Carl joined the Eden faculty last year after leaving MUMC. He has served as Director of the Methodist House of Studies there and will continue in that role along with his duties as dean of students.

Chancel Choir Update 7/29: News
No Summer Choir This Week
There is no summer choir in the loft this Sunday. Next summer choir will sing on Sunday, Aug. 7.

Next Summer Dinner At The Highlands in Kirkwood
We're headed to Kirkwood next Thursday for dinner at Highlands Brewing Co., 105 E. Jefferson. This is the former Annendale Brewery, now with new owners and a new menu. As an added optional bonus, Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will play in the Kirkwood Station Plaza just up the street following dinner. We'll gather at the Highlands Brewing Co. at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 4. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, Aug. 3. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749.

Chancel Choir Update 7/26: News
Last Call For Dinner At Jeff Allee's Wildwood Grill
We're headed to Jeff Allee's Wildwood Pub & Grill in Wildwood this Thursday. If you attend only one summer choir dinner this year, this is the one. Jeff has added a large menu of barbecue items in addition to the grill's regular menu. Anyone for pulled pork pizza? Smoked trout? Brisket nachos? Pork sliders? We'll gather at the Wildwood Pub & Grill at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 28. We'll need your reservation by noon tomorrow, Wednesday, July 27. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. The Wildwood Pub & Grill is located off Highway 109 at the corner of New College Ave. just two stoplights south of Highway 100. (It's next to the new YMCA and the new Community College building.) We'll see you there.

Next Summer Choir on Aug. 4
The summer Chancel Choir will sing in worship again on Sunday, Aug 4.

Summer Potluck Set For Aug. 20
Our annual summer (back to business) pot luck will be on Saturday, Aug. 20, at the home of Soprano Bonnie Halls. Details and directions will follow.

Rehearsals Resume on Aug. 25
Rehearsals for the fall season resume a week earlier than originally planned. We'll get back to business on Thursday, Aug. 25, preparing for the concert to mark the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 tragedy. We'll be joined by the St. Louis Symphony's In Unison Chorus for the concert on Sunday, Sept, 11 in our Sanctuary.

Chairs Are Cleaned For First Rehearsal
You can wear your fancy pants to the first rehearsal this fall -- the choir chairs are now spotless. All 160 chairs were cleaned in just 25 minutes when 25 choir members showed up with buckets and brushes last Saturday morning. It's the old "many hands make light work" routine. "I want to thank everyone who showed up to help. This was a very needed project that went fast and attracted a lot of help," says choir president Joe McMillen.

Chancel Choir Update 7/22: News / Cares and Concerns
Summer Dinner At Jeff Allee's Wildwood Grill
We're headed to Jeff Allee's Wildwood Pub & Grill in Wildwood next Thursday. If you attend only one summer choir dinner this year, this is the one. Jeff has added a large menu of barbecue items in addition to the grill's regular menu. Anyone for pulled pork pizza? Smoked trout? Brisket nachos? Pork sliders? We'll gather at the Wildwood Pub & Grill at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 28. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, July 27. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. The Wildwood Pub & Grill is located off Highway 109 at the corner of New College Ave. just two stoplights south of Highway 100. (It's next to the new YMCA and the new Community College building.) We'll see you there.

Help Clean The Music Room Choir Chairs This Saturday
The chairs in the Music Room need cleaning very badly. So, on Saturday, July 23 we are going to meet in the Music Room at 9 a.m. to clean the chairs. If we get 20 to 25 people, it should only take a couple of hours to clean them. The church will provide all the supplies, but we need you to bring a bucket. Please contact Choir President Joe McMillen at jmc976@att.net if you would like to help out. Donuts will be provided.

Chancel Choir Helped Vacation Bible School
Dozens of Chancel Choir members were present for this week's evening Vacation Bible School (VBS). In addition to serving meals for several hindered people on Tuesday and Thursday nights, choir members took on dramatic roles teaching the children who attended and helped with the planning and logistics. Several photos are included at the end of this email. A full set of photos is posted on the Chancel Choir's Facebook page. This from Alto Diane Lawrence: “If I tried to list all of the folks who helped out with the Vacation Bible School meals I am sure I would forget someone. So I am sending a large group Thank You! You persevered through the waves of standing and the waves of chaos. I know some of you feel that you didn’t do much. As I was told, the success of the meals, and the Vacation Bible School is many people doing their small part. Your part was greatly appreciated.”

Cares and Concerns
Good news this week for Alto Karen Yeomans. She had been concerned about her future here in St. Louis as MoDOT contemplated a reorganization and downsizing. But word came through this week that Karen will not only stay in St. Louis, but also receive a promotion to District Design Engineer. Congratulations.

Chancel Choir Update 7/19: News
Last Call C. J. Muggs For Dinner Thursday
The traveling summer dinner will be at C.J. Muggs in Webster Groves this Thursday, July 21. We'll gather at Muggs at 6:30 p.m. We'll need your reservation by noon tomorrow, Wednesday, July 20. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. C. J. Muggs is located at corner of Gore and Lockwood in beautiful downtown Webster Groves. Plenty of parking on the street or in the garage immediately to the west.

Help Clean The Music Room Choir Chairs This Saturday
The chairs in the Music Room need cleaning very badly. So, on Saturday, July 23 we are going to meet in the Music Room at 9 a.m. to clean the chairs. If we get 20 to 25 people, it should only take a couple of hours to clean them. The church will provide all the supplies, but we need you to bring a bucket. Please contact Choir President Joe McMillen at jmc976@att.net if you would like to help out. Donuts will be provided.

Chancel Choir Update 7/17: Cares and Concerns
Alto Mary Lou Adams has been placed on hospice care. Her family asks the choir for its thoughts and prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 7/15: News
Summer Choir In The Loft This Sunday
Join us in the loft this Sunday at the 10:50 a.m. worship service when the "pickup" summer choir sings. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 a.m. for a quick warmup. Bring a friend or prospective choir member with you. The summer choir will also sing on Aug. 7 and Aug. 14.

C. J. Muggs For Dinner Next Thursday
The traveling summer dinner will be at C.J. Muggs in Webster Groves next Thursday, July 21. We'll gather at Muggs at 6:30 p.m. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, July 20. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. C. J. Muggs is located at corner of Gore and Lockwood in beautiful downtown Webster Groves. Plenty of parking on the street or in the garage immediately to the west.

Bring Some Supplies or Help in the Kitchen at Centenary
The Chancel Choir is scheduled to help serve lunch at The Bridge homeless food program at Centenary UMC downtown on Wednesday, July 20. There will be a signup sheet in the Music Room this Sunday or contact Joan Lemen at 636-230-5513 or joanlemen4@gmail.com Pantry items requested for July are: T-shirts in L, XL and 2XL; sunscreen; and aloevera gel or lotion. They also need plastic cups and bowls and plastic grocery bags. Items may be placed in the "Bridge Box" is in the Music Room.

Help Clean The Music Room Choir Chairs
The chairs in the Music Room need cleaning very badly. So, on Saturday, July 23 we are going to meet in the Music Room at 9 a.m. to clean the chairs. If we get 20 to 25 people, it should only take a couple of hours to clean them. The church will provide all the supplies, but we need people to bring a bucket. Please contact Choir President Joe McMillen at jmc976@att.net if you would like to help out on July 23. Donuts will be provided.

Summer Potluck Set For Aug. 20
Our annual summer (back to business) pot luck will be on Saturday, Aug. 20, at the home of Soprano Bonnie Halls. Details and directions will follow.

Rehearsals Resume on Aug. 25
Rehearsals for the fall season resume a week earlier than originally planned. We'll get back to business on Thursday, Aug. 25, preparing for the concert to mark the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 tragedy. We'll be joined by the St. Louis Symphony's In Unison Chorus for the concert on Sunday, Sept, 11 in our Sanctuary.

Choir Members Help Joplin Tornado Clean Up
Soprano Carol Duggin and Alto Merry Gnaegy spent last week helping clean up tornado debris at 12 damaged home sites in Joplin, Mo. The church mission trip took 15 workers to the storm ravaged town. “We heard amazing stories of several survivors, helped salvage some of their personal keepsakes, and came back feeling very blessed to have roofs over our heads, and trees in our yards. The devastation we saw first-hand is something we’ll never forget,” Merry reports. The photo below is at the home of Paul and Veda Gordon who survived only because their wrought iron bar stools protected them from the collapsed exterior wall of their kitchen. Another mission trip to Joplin is planned in August.

Chancel Choir Update 7/12: News / Cares and Concerns
Last Call For Rib City This Thursday
The traveling summer dinners stop at Rib City in Des Peres this Thursday, July 14. We'll gather at Rib City at 6:30 p.m. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, July 13. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. Rib City is located at Manchester Road and old Des Peres Road behind Casa Gallardo in the old Rick’s American Café building.

Summer Choir In The Loft This Sunday
Join us in the loft this Sunday at the 10:50 a.m. worship service when the "pickup" summer choir sings. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 a.m. for a quick warmup. Bring a friend or prospective choir member with you. The summer choir will also sing on Aug. 7 and Aug. 14.

Choir Chair Cleaning Project Needs Your Help
The chairs in the Music Room need cleaning very badly. So, on Saturday, July 23 we are going to meet in the Music Room at 9 a.m. to clean the chairs. If we get 20 to 25 people, it should only take a couple of hours to clean them. The church will provide all the supplies, but we need people to bring a bucket. Please contact Choir President Joe McMillen at jmc976@att.net if you would like to help out on July 23. Donuts will be provided.

Choir Outreach for The Bridge at Centenary UMC Needs Your Help
The Chancel Choir is scheduled to help serve lunch at The Bridge homeless food program at Centenary UMC downtown on Wednesday, July 20. There will be a signup sheet in the Music Room this Sunday or contact Joan Lemen at 636-230-5513 or joanlemen4@gmail.com Pantry items requested for July are: T-shirts in L, XL and 2XL; sunscreen; and aloevera gel or lotion. They also need plastic cups and bowls and plastic grocery bags. Items may be placed in the "Bridge Box" is in the Music Room.

Bass Joe Elstner’s Band Schedules Summer Concerts
The Decades, Bass Joe Elstner's classic rock band, will appear Saturday, July 16, at Joujin’, 7321 S. Lindbergh just west of LeMay Ferry Road, from 8 until midnight, and Thursday, Aug. 4, at Station Plaza in downtown Kirkwood from 6:30 until 9:30. The Decades' web site is http://thedecades.wordpress.com, and they're on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TheDecadesSTL.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Cindy McGraw is a first time grandmother. Collin William Larson arrived on July 8 at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center weighting in at 6 lb., 12 oz. and 19 1/2 inches. Daughter Kendra is doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 7/8: News
Summer Choir In The Loft This Sunday
Join us in the loft this Sunday at the 10:50 a.m. worship service when the "pickup" summer choir sings. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 a.m. for a quick warmup. Bring a friend or prospective choir member with you. The summer choir will also sing on July 17, Aug. 7 and Aug. 14.

Ribs For Dinner Next Thursday
The traveling summer dinner will be at Rib City in Des Peres next Thursday, July 14. We'll gather at Rib City at 6:30 p.m. We've tested ribs at Rib City and without doubt the baby back ribs are among the best I've had in a long, long time. Good eatin'. We'll need your reservation by noon Wednesday, July 13. Either respond to this email or call 636-227-5749. Rib City is located at Manchester Road and old Des Peres Road behind Casa Gallardo in the old Rick’s American Café building.

Choir Chair Cleaning Project Needs Your Help
We need your help with a quick project that will directly benefit the choir. The chairs in the Music Room need cleaning very badly. The church’s custodial staff has other pressing projects this summer and won’t be able to clean them. Choir President Joe McMillen says,“The Chancel Choir officers and I thought it might be a good idea for the choir to help clean the chairs. So, on Saturday, July 23 we are going to meet in the Music Room at 9 a.m. to clean the chairs.” As a test, Cathy Tower, custodial supervisor, cleaned a chair with soft scrub, water, and a rag and it only took about 10 minutes. If we get 20 to 25 people, it should only take a couple of hours to clean them. The church would provide all the supplies, but we need people to bring a bucket. Please contact Joe at jmc976@att.net if you would like to help out on July 23. Donuts will be provided.

More Help Needed For VBS Meal Service
More help is needed to serve meals for Vacation Bible School. The choir has been asked to serve meals on Tuesday, July 19 and Wednesday, July 20. We have only 27 people who volunteered to help with meals. Last year we had 60. Organizer Diane Lawrence says: “I think we can do the job, but a few more helpers wouldn't hurt. We really don't have any cooking -- just setting up, serving and cleaning up. Shifts are 1 1/2 hours, between 3:30 and 7 p.m. and the attire is blue Faith in Action shirts.” If you’d like to help and haven’t signed up yet, call or email Diane at 636-391-6435 or dslmath@aol.com.

Chancel Choir Update 7/6: Memorial Services
A memorial service for Ellen Lippard, mother of Soprano Jana Stiller, will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 9, at First Presbyterian Church of Kirkwood located at 100 E. Adams St. in Kirkwood. She died Sunday (7/3). Jana's home address is: 1196 Laven Del Lane, Kirkwood, MO 63122.

A memorial service for Faletia Blives, grandmother of Soprano Shannon Meriwether, will be at 11 a.m., Monday, July 11, at MUMC. She died Sunday (7/3) at the age of 94.

Chancel Choir Update 7/3: Deaths In The Choir Family
It is with sadness we report the death this morning (7/3) of Ellen Lippard, mother of Soprano Jana Stiller. Memorial services are pending. Jana's home address is: 1196 Laven Del Lane, Kirkwood, MO 63122.

It is with sadness that we report the death of Marge Divjak, mother of Bass Dave Divjak. She died Tuesday (6/28) in Springfield, Ill. A small graveside service was held on Friday. A memorial service is planned for later this month at her church, the Auburn United Methodist Church. "We appreciate everyone's prayers during this time of great loss. The fact is, my Mom was ready to enter the Lord's Kingdom and she didn't have to suffer through a long illness." Dave's home address is: 1555 Carmen Valley Dr., Manchester, MO 63021.

Chancel Choir Update 7/1: News / Cares and Concerns
Dinner This Thursday At Big Bear Grill
The traveling summer dinners will make a stop at the Big Bear Grill in Wildwood this Thursday night, July 7. If you'd like to join us, reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday, July 6. The Big Bear Grill is at 16524 Manchester Road a mile or so west of Clarkson in front of the Schnuck's Store in the same building with St. Louis Bread Company. The food is excellent there. Here a link to a map: http://bigbeargrill.com/location.htm
We had 46 choir friends join us last night at the Corner Pub in Chesterfield. Food and service as great. Former Alto Jodie Pounds' husband is the manager there.

Centenary Work Day Postponed; More Volunteers Needed
The work day at Centenary UMC next Saturday has been postponed due to lack of volunteers. The work event to rearrange furniture and organize the canned/dry goods in the pantry and rearrange furniture for the Bridge homeless food program will be Saturday, July 9. According to Chancel Choir outreach director Joan Lemen, “We still need at least 10 volunteers. The plan is to carpool from church at 9 a.m. and hope to return no later than 4 p.m. I will organize a picnic lunch.” Contact her at joanlemen4@gmail.com

More Help Needed For VBS Meal Service
More help is needed to serve meals for Vacation Bible School. The choir has been asked to serve meals on Tuesday, July 19 and Wednesday, July 20. We have only 27 people who volunteered to help with meals. Last year we had 60. Organizer Diane Lawrence says: “I think we can do the job, but a few more helpers wouldn't hurt. We really don't have any cooking -- just setting up, serving and cleaning up. Shifts are 1 1/2 hours, between 3:30 and 7 p.m. and the attire is blue Faith in Action shirts.” If you’d like to help and haven’t signed up yet, call or email Diane at 636-391-6435 or dslmath@aol.com.

Cares and Concerns
It’s a grandson for former Alto Becky Schenck and former senior pastor Carl Schenck. Felix Dominique Gallais-Pradal was born in New Jersey at 4:35 p.m., Thursday (6/28) to daughter Sarah and her husband, Laurent. He weighed 5 lbs. 13 oz. has lots of beautiful black hair. Everyone is doing well.