Fundraising News

DO YOU HAVE FUND RAISING IDEAS?... we are always looking for ways to fund raise and fellowship so if you have ideas please e mail them to the church office....or better yet come on down to a Financial Development Team Meeting. Everyone together can help grow this ministry SPIRITUALLY AND FINANCIALLY.

CHRISTMAS FAIR RAFFLES ON SALE NOW!!!... in the Narthex (Lobby) of the church on Sunday mornings. Come get a preview of these great basket items, and a chance to purchase raffle tickets and choose your prizes ahead of the Christmas Craft Fair on November 28th and 29th.

CHRISTMAS FAIR HOSTED BY HCLC... will be held Black Friday weekend, November 28th and 29th at the Centereach Fire House. We are excited and very thankful to Sue Fantel for securing this space for our fair. We thank the Fire Department too for approving this activity at their house. We are looking for , and help for the entire two days. So put some time aside to assist; set up, clean-up, distributing flyers, Want to help? Speak with Sue Fantel who is spear-heading this project. At This point we have a wait list for Vendors....isn’t that exciting. Also look for posters, and signs around town. We need help distributing flyers to stores in your neighborhood too. We will have them available soon.

CONFIRMATION WRAPPING PAPER FUNDRAISER... On Sunday, November 16th and again on Sunday, November 23rd - we will be holding another Casting Crowns fundraiser by selling wrapping paper and gift bags for all occasions. Great prices!!! All product is on hand - no ordering to do, just cash and carry!!! We will need 10 teens for each week: 5 to man the tables after the 9 am service, and 5 to man the tables after the 11 am service. One of our Level 1 leaders, Jen Shulz, will be coordinating. Please sign up with Jen to work this event.

FUND RAISING AND THE MINISTRY... our ministry is going and growing and it is all because of God’s desire for it to flourish. He works through you to make it happen; using your hands and feet and voice and financial resources to accomplish God sized dreams. We have had several very successful fund raising activities and we thank each person for their participation and help. Unfortunately we are using those proceeds to fund the ministry of Holy Cross. A church really should never fund its ministry through the use of fund raisers. They should be used for the “extras” of the ministry. If it were not for the fund raisers we would not be meeting our budget needs. We are holding down expenses, and are working with a bear bones budget. Still it is very difficult to meet our basic needs. Each person makes a difference. Each dollar makes a difference.

ITEM OF THE MONTH TEAM... once or twice a month we want to provide the congregation with the opportunity to make their extra love purchase of the Item of the Month. All you need to do is stand by the table and help people to make the purchase, collect their $$ and hand the envelope in to the ushers or Church Administrator or Pastor. You’re already in church... how much easier can it be. Please speak to Arlene Tramazzo, 738-9076, leave your name at the Information Center, e-mail the church or call. We will be making calls to you too!!!!

CrossWords & Gifts News

CrossWords & Gifts Store GRAND REOPENING... WOW... What a Grand Reopening of CW&G... and you made it happen. I am grateful for all your hard work. Your labors of love for the ministry and for the people to come to know the Lord, Jesus through this ministry of outreach into the community is something I will always remember and be forever humbled by. Keep praying for our ministry and especially for what this store can do to help people bring the love of Jesus into other homes.

DO YOU HAVE AN EXPERTISE?... We are trying to put together a list of forums and teaching sessions for the congregation and the community. Perhaps you have special skills or information to share; financial planning, elder care, nursing, preschool etc. Let Pastor know or call the church office or e mail. We are excited about this.

Visit our CrossWords & Gifts

on-line store...

Our on-line store is open 24/7!

Shop Anytime!

http://www.crosswordsandgifts.com

Pay by Credit Card or through Pay-Pal

We carry...

A full line of quality gifts

Cards for every occasion

Seasonal Items

T-shirts and jewelry

Music and Books

And much, much more!

In-store pick up or have your order shipped

It’s really difficult to find a good Christian gift store on-line. We are working hard to get to be the best because then God’s love and comfort can and will be shared with many, many people.

Do you need a cross for your home or maybe some excellent spiritual reading material? Is your grandchild being baptized? Are your children being married this year? Do your little ones need a great Christian CD or storybook? Check us out!

Don’t forget to purchase a cross or fish medallion for your car. (A great gift for your new driver!) Let everyone know Jesus goes with you!

FANTASTIC AUTHORS AND THEIR BOOKS... Now that the kids are back to school, you may find some reading time for yourself. Pick books by Max Lucado or Joyce Meyer in CrossWords & Gifts. They are enjoyable, thought provoking and not too heavy. Both have a great sense of humor.

A BOOK TO RECOMMEND... The Case For Christ by Lee Strobel. He answers the question “is there credible evidence that Jesus of Nazareth really is the Son of God. An atheist at the beginning of the research of this book, a former spiritual skeptic has carefully and directly interviewed and “cross-examined” a dozen experts and provides a cogent explanation of their evidence, research and opinions. CrossWords & Gifts carries the book. If they are out we can get it for you quickly and at a reduce rate.

WANT TO READ A GOOD BOOK?... one that will help you discover meaning and purpose for you life.....a book that will help you answer to tough questions about relationships, parenting, managing money, forgiving others, loving the difficult, what to do about stress, how to cope with the ugly things the world has to offer? I recommend... the Bible... the MESSAGE version of the bible. It is easy to read and makes sense out of the difficult phrases and concepts in the bible. We carry it in the book store. Anyone Pastor has recommended it to, LOVES THIS VERSION.

SPEAKING OF OUR STORE… CrossWords & Gifts is approaching its Third Anniversary! It has been an exciting and very busy adventure! The really neat thing is that people are finding out about us... sharing the good news of this really lovely store. We have gifts for all ages, cards, music and books. We are excited about the ways we are reaching people with the love of Jesus Christ through this store. It is great to know that so many of our members are supporting the store. It is heartwarming to know that people like giving “religious” gifts to one another. Thanks for your support. Many thanks to the CW & G team that has steadied the course and provided great leadership. With our recent move to the street-level of the building, we have expanded the products we carry in the store and on-line. Check out what’s new!

TOO BUSY NOT TO PRAY... is an excellent book available in CrossWords & Gifts. It is about slowing down to be with God. Most of us have trouble finding time to pray. There’s all the family, work, school, sports, recreation and church activities. Prayer doesn’t happen on the run. We are all too busy not to pray. We need God’s guidance, we need his love and care. It is a refreshing, easy to read, honest look at prayer and its power to change our outlook, disposition, attitudes, goals and dreams as we live busy lives.

This book and more are in our Holy Cross CrossWords & Gifts store and are also available through our on-line site at:

www.crosswordsandgifts.com.

TAKING THE STORE ON THE ROAD... The CW&G Travel Store has begun! We are going to be taking the store (product) to flea markets, craft shows, fall festivals, spring flings and community street fairs. We tried it a few times at local happenings and now we are expanding. Are you interested in participating in this endeavor? We could use your help from time to time. Call the store and let them know that you’d like to help with the travel store.

Worship / Prayer News

GLUTEN-FREE COMMUNION WAFERS... are now available for those who need them. Please inform Pastor Raggie if this would be helpful for you. You may inform an usher of your need for these prior to the worship service and you will be directed where to go during Communion. A separate chalice of wine will also be available for your use.

CHANGE IN OUR WORSHIP... because so many children are involved in our Sunday School program and our worship we are having a difficult time settling down in worship and getting the children off to class in a timely fashion, which limits their learning experience. BEGINNING October 19TH the children will leave for SS class immediately following the Children’s Sermon WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE AFTER GATHERING THE PRAYERS AND BEFORE THE ENTRANCE HYMN (first hymn). Those parents that need to escort their children to class will have ample time to return to their seats and go deeper in the worship experience. If you want to keep your child in with you for any part of the worship service, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO DO SO. These changes are to help you worship and if that includes your child, so be it.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR A PIANIST OR KEY BOARD PLAYER... for our mid week, Wednesday worship service. If you know someone please have them contact us. Salary is commensurate with experience.

SUNDAY JAMM... JESUS AND MUSIC AND MICROPHONES... We have begun hosting Christian musical groups, comedians, poetry readers at 4:00 pm each Sunday - two hours before our worship begins at 6:00 pm. We are giving great Christian talent a place to express their love for the Lord and maybe even add to our worship experience at REACH, our 21st Century service. Do you know someone who fits the bill? Share this information with them. The Open Mike begins at 4:00 pm. For more information e-mail Virginia Ward; GinWard1@yahoo.com Come on down and enjoy being in your Father’s house worshiping and listening and praying and singing.

USHERS NEEDED... would you like to help in the ministry of Holy Cross? You are here on Sundays anyway, why not help by greeting people and ushering them, helping them to feel comfortable as they enter the doors of Holy Cross. Please consider joining the Usher Team. Speak with Mike Carroll or Janice Savarese or go to the Information Center to let them know you’d like to help.

ACOLYTE TEAMS ARE BEING PUT TOGETHER... How would you like to lead worship as a family? We’ve been putting teams together and it really has been neat to see kids together with their Moms and Dads and siblings all helping to lead us in worship by lighting the candles, reading the lessons, distributing Holy Communion, carrying the torches, the Bible and the Processional Cross. DOES YOUR FAMILY WANT TO BE A TEAM? Let us know... or we might be tapping you on the shoulder and asking. Remember, it’s for the Lord and you are already here - see worship from another angle! Let Sue Fantel, Deacon Dee or someone at the Information Center know of your willingness.

NOT A FAMILY, BUT WANT TO LEAD WORSHIP?... Let us know, we’ll team you up with someone. We’d be delighted for you to be an Acolyte or Worship Assistant

OUR VERY OWN, DANA HEISERER... is serving as “intern Pastor” at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4150 Dupont Ave North, Minneapolis, Minnesota  55412.  Dana will be the intern Pastor for 1 year until August 2009, when she returns to seminary in Pennsylvania to complete her final year of studies. 

IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER REQUESTS... Prayer requests are a great way to gather God’s people in prayer. Each Sunday morning we solicit your prayer requests. It is one of the most important things we do.

PRAYING FOR ONE ANOTHER... there is a “prayer mailbox” on the table in the entranceway to the Church (right side as you leave through the red doors). It is there for you to request prayers for Sunday worship services to be included in our Parish News should you so desire (we are hesitant to remove a name from our published prayer list without following up with the person making the prayer request, so please be sure to include your name and telephone number if you would like your request listed in the Parish News). We encourage you to use this very special gift of prayer.

CHAUSABLE CHANGE... this is the colorful garment that Pastor wears over her robe. It is used to signal the celebration of Holy Communion. Pastor is now putting it on just before the celebration of Holy Communion as a visual reminder that this loving meal offered by God in Christ Jesus, is in deed a celebration. Just as we dress up for weddings, parties and special occasions, Pastor “dresses-up” for the celebration of the Lord’s Supper.

MULTIMEDIA IN WORSHIP... We are projecting the Announcements for the week and using videos and multi-media to enhance the lessons learned from the sermon each Sunday. We are excited about this step and hope you are too! This is part of the RSVP project, initiated nearly 6 years ago. Soon we will be putting in place the permanent system, but for now bear with us as we use the portable screen and work on dimming capabilities in our lighting system.

GREAT FEEDBACK... on using the multi-media in worship, so we want to complete the remaining steps of the Rock Solid Vision Plan implemented several years ago. We will be looking for company’s that will help us create an excellent multi media system to enhance our worship on Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings and when we implement Wednesday evening worship as well as our educational programs, such as Confirmation and Adult instruction.

ADDING SOMEONE TO “THIS WEEK WE KEEP IN OUR PRAYERS” LIST... which is on the front page of the Church Parish News, please call the church office or go to the Information Center in the church lobby, you’ll receive a very short prayer request form to fill out.

HOLY CROSS PRAYER CHAIN… If you have been receiving our weekly Prayer Chain through your e-mail, you know it has grown by leaps and bounds over the last year. It is a great way to stay informed as to what is happening in the lives of our Holy Cross family members, and to offer a prayer of healing, assistance or thanks to God during the middle of the week. Note: We e-mail out our prayer list to over 300 HCLC members and families, youth, college students and former HCLC members each week. If you would like to start receiving this, send an e-mail to tmandd@optonline.net.

Financial News

DECEMBER 3rd - RESCHEDULED ANNUAL CONGREGATION MEETING... The Annual Congregation Meeting has been rescheduled to Wednesday, December 3rd at 7:45 pm, immediately following the mid-week Advent service.

A FINANCIAL UPDATE FROM OUR CHURCH TREASURER... Your Ministry Giving vs. Expenses: The total of our gifts to our Ministry year-to-date through the month of August: $212,299. The cost of our Mission year-to-date through the month of August is $207,977. Our surplus for two months is $4322.

PARKING LOT REPAIR... WOW, WE, YOU, DID IT... your response to the RPL letter was outstanding. We have what we need to get the work done. Repairs have begun with the first phase the repair of the cracks. These need to set for 4 weeks, so the final stage will take place at the end of September. We thank you for your help in taking care of our church home and campus.

OIL TANKS HAVE BEEN REMOVED... This was a massive undertaking which Buck Barba stepped up to get done. He was able to get much of what he needed for this project for free or at minimal cost. What a blessing. The EPA was on site as the work was being done. Amazingly, 100 gallons were rescued out of the tanks before they were removed and will be used for the parsonage. We are deeply thankful to Buck and Val Barba for getting this done.

NAEIR FOR NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS... is something that Holy Cross has joined. Though there is a yearly fee, the items themselves are free, except for shipping. Already we have used the program to our benefit and have already re-cooped our registration fee. The pre-school, Sunday School, Faith Friends, church maintenance, Outreach and Evangelism have been taking a look at the catalogue and are making their requests known. We will be setting up a Sponsor-A-Bill for shipping expenses. The items can be used by our ministries and given away. This is especially appealing to us as we reach out into the community. We can donate gifts to Habitat, the local community out reach groups, Migrant Workers, Christmas families and much more. The cost involved is the small handling cost and shipping costs. So, to really use this program well we need your gift of shipping money. WE ARE EXCITED about this new way to cut costs!!!!

HOW CAN NAEIR DO THIS?... the major companies – over 7,000 manufacturers and retailers – get a tax write off that tremendously benefits them. They receive double the benefits because their overstock products go to non profit organizations. Some of the companies: Nike, 3M, Gillette, Reebok, Microsoft, Oreck, Conair, Pep Boys, Intuit, Spalding, Gateway, Stanley Tools and many, many more.

REMEMBER THE 20/80 RULE... it states that 20% of the people will provide 80% of the support to an organization. This rule holds true in the realm of employment, volunteer force and finances. 20% of the ministry provides 80% of the volunteer support and financial support. CAN HCLC BREAK THE RULE? LET’S HOPE SO!!

GIVING A LEGACY THROUGH LIFE INSURANCE... It can be as simple as changing the beneficiary of your policy. You can make a gift to the mission and ministry of Holy Cross by changing the beneficiary on your existing policy to reflect Holy Cross Lutheran Church.  Call your insurance agent today to find out the process. Give a legacy that has eternal consequences.

DID YOU KNOW... that every gift to Holy Cross made in remembrance of, in honor of or in thanksgiving for an individual is acknowledged with a letter to let the named person or their family know of your caring and gift?

SIMPLY GIVING… We all help with the financial needs of Holy Cross. What if the Church Council could show you an easier way to support your church?... It is called Simply Giving. Simply Giving is a new automated giving program from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. It’s designed to help you conveniently, consistently and joyfully give financial gifts to HCLC’s ministry. By participating in Simply Giving, you can use electronic funds transfer to give your weekly, semi-monthly or monthly offering to our ministry. For more information, please stop by the Information Center and speak to a Council representative.

Ministry News

WE PRAISE THE GRUCCI FIREWORKS FAMILY...they withdrew their company from providing fireworks to the Patchogue Town Christmas parade and celebrations when the name of the celebration was changed to HOLIDAY PARADE.

REMOVAL OF JOYCE MEYER AND OTHER PASTORS... Removal of Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, A.R. Bernard, TD Jakes and other pastors from the airwaves is something being considered in Washington DC. An organization has been granted a Federal Hearing on the same subject by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in Washington , D.C. Their petition, Number 2493, would ultimately pave the way to stop the reading of the gospel of our Lord and Savior, on the airwaves of America . They got 287,000 signatures to back their stand! If this attempt is successful, all Sunday worship services being broadcast on the radio or by television will be stopped. This group is also campaigning to remove all Christmas programs and Christmas carols from public schools! You as a Christian can help!

WHO DO YOU WRITE TO WHEN YOU CARE... about our nation or our state? Write or e-mail your congress in New York State and/or Washington D.C.

New York State Senator, Caesar Trunzo,

trunzo@senate.state.ny.us, NYS Office Building Veterans' Memorial Highway, Hauppauge, NY 11788 631-360-3236, or 711 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247, 518-455-2111.

New York State Senator, John J. Flanagan,

flanagan@senate.state.ny.us. Or 260 Middle Country Road, Suite 203 , Smithtown, NY 11787 or 817 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247. Phone numbers: 631-361-2154 and 518-455-2071.

Senator Charles Schumer (D),

202-224-6542. The Fax # is 202-228-3027. Or e-mail him at: http://schumer.senate.gov/SchumerWebsite/contact/webform.cfm.
 

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D),

202-224-4451. The Fax @# is202-228-0282. Or e-mail her at:

http://clinton.senate.gov/contact/webform.cfm.
 

Representative Timothy H. Bishop (D),

202-225-3826. The Fax # is 202-225-3143. Or e-mail him at: http://timbishop.house.gov/sectionid=96§iontree=796
 

Representative Steve J. Israel (D),

202-225-3335. The Fax # is 202-225-4669. Or e-mail him at:

http://israel.house.gov/?sectionid

INTERESTED IN MEMBERSHIP?... go to the Information Center. There is a card you can fill out that will get you on the mailing list. There are booklets there to read and someone to ask questions of. Membership sessions are held throughout the year so watch the Parish News (this booklet). You don’t have to make the commitment right away. We are just glad you are worshiping with us. Here at HCLC that is what is important. Membership comes as you feel more deeply about what goes on here and want to be a part of something which helps others and reaches others with the love of Jesus Christ.

SUMMIT CONFERENCE AUGUST 7th & 8th... We had 10 leaders from HCLC attend this two day conference via satellite hosted by a church in Syosset. They are took vacation time to attend this outstanding conference presented by Willow Creek Church of Barrington, Indiana. It was outstanding and inspiring. Everyone got a lot out of it. The time of fellowship and sharing of ideas was also very insightful. Attenders: Charlie Ward, Janice Savarese, Deacon’s Dee Hecker and Chris Thompson, Arlene Tramazzo, Petra Ottenbreit, Sue Fantel, Kathy Lusteg, Barbara Drewes, Pastor Raggie.

STEWARDSHIP MEETING UPDATE... The meeting was a very positive one, reflecting on what stewardship is all about; not just money but time and talents too!. They will be gathering information about giving units, work with Financial Development Team and Budget Review Team to implement ideas and get the word out. There will be times for Stewardship to provide information and education. They will use the Temple Talk approach for some of this. All agreed that these are exciting times in the ministry of HCLC. People are stepping into the breach, helping to meet the budget and pay for the unanticipated expenses, such as the phone system. They see people getting involved in the nuts and bolts of our ministry and they want to help to continue to shape all of this.

WE NEED INFORMATION... In the pews at church you will find a clip board. We are asking you to help us update our records since we have had difficulty with our computer system. We are particularly interested in your e-mail address. This will help us more efficiently and effectively communicate with our church family. We are hoping to be able to use this non-expense means of communication more and more, keeping you updated on the happenings at Holy Cross. Those who have been involved in the Confirmation program or the Prayer Chain ministry know how helpful this has been. Please help us!

NURSERY HELP... Our Sunday morning nursery can use your help. We need volunteers to keep watch over our children as they use the nursery. There is $$$ compensation for your participation. Please stop at the Info Center in the Narthex if you are interested.

WEDDINGS AND BAPTISMS... do you need to make arrangements for Holy Cross to participate in these special occasions? Please call the church office first to see if the date and time is available. Pastor will be in touch with you after you have discussed dates and times with the office staff. Baptisms are usually done in the 11:00am service and are done for one family at a time (unless otherwise requested). Weddings are based upon Pastor’s schedule and the worship schedule of the ministr. Pastor will do weddings at a restaurant or catering hall if necessary. Wedding rehearsals are required when held at the church. Soloists are available. Our resident organist will schedule music and soloists for weddings together with Pastor. God’s blessings!

INTERESTED IN HOSTING A COFFEE HOUR?... We would like to be able to have a Coffee Hour every Sunday morning between services. This is a wonderful way to say good morning to each other and make new friends and renew old acquaintances. You may wish to host a Coffee Hour to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, graduation, etc. or simply host one to share some refreshments and time with your Holy Cross family. Contact the church office at 631-588-9509 if you are interested.

2008 FLOWER CHART... The Flower Chart is posted in the office hallway for you to sign up to place flowers on the altar on a particular Sunday in honor of a special occasion or in remembrance of your loved ones. Each vase costs $20 and there are two vases available each Sunday. If you have any questions, please contact the church office at 631-588-9509.

A BUSINESS CARD SECTION... is being added to our Parish News. We are asking you to frequent those establishments that regularly help the ministry of Holy Cross by giving us deep discounts in their services and products. Let them know you are from Holy Cross and you appreciate what they do for our ministry.

BUILDING USE... Just a reminder that members of Holy Cross may use the rooms for various functions and/or meetings. However, all requests must come through the Church Office and be approved before hand. Scheduling conflicts can and do occur and it is always important to know who and why people are in the building. Call Diane in the church office at 588-9509 for information and scheduling.

WELCA NEWS... Evening Circle meetings for Holy Cross’ unit of Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are held monthly at the church at 7:30 pm. WELCA Reading Circle meetings are held on Monday evenings at 7:30 pm at various members’ homes. All women are warmly welcome. Watch for posted dates.

WELCA... Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, is the very active women’s group at Holy Cross. They meet regularly in fellowship, prayer, bible studies, book studies, attend retreats, hold a yearly cookie exchange, come together with other churches in prayer and praise... they come together to sing and learn and enjoy friendship. Recently they held a bake sale. The proceeds were used to purchase gifts for the residents of Wittridge Adult Home (located in the neighborhood on the west side of Hawkins Avenue). There was money left over that they donated to the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund and was used to help make Christmas special for a family in need. In December they went Christmas caroling to some of the homebound of our ministry.

SOUL FOOD… Our Free Christian Literature and Gift Center, supported by free will offerings, is a great opportunity to pick up “Christian” cards, books, notes, stickers, pins, small gifts, and items of interest to keep or to share with family and friends. As the seasons change, so do the items on our shelves - with materials being offered that are appropriate for that particular time of year. Come, browse, and enjoy some Soul Food.

Council News

OPEN CONGREGATIONAL COUNCIL SEATS... Four Congregation Council seats are available for the term beginning December 9, 2008 through December 13, 2011. The Church Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. and considers all matters relating to the life and activities of Holy Cross. This is a wonderful opportunity to serve our congregation and to support our ministries. If you are interested, please stop at the Information Center to meet with a council member. Seats will be elected at the Annual Congregation Meeting on Wednesday, December 3rd at 7:45 pm.

COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY FOR NOVEMBER, 2008...

Lengthy discussion of the issues surrounding the adjourned Annual meeting. There were guests in attendance. Four of them took the opportunity to speak their concerns. The Council listened with care. A decision was made to hold the meeting.
1st Annual Christmas Boutique for the Sunday School & Noah’s Ark Pre-School to be held
Motion to use $2,000 of the Christmas Fair proceeds for Confirmation. And there is a potential Thrivent For Lutheran’s matching gift of $700.
Treasurer announced that we are in doing well and have covered our expenses through October 31st. Accounts payable are up to date. But as always we are mindful that we need to pay down our outstanding debt accrued over several years.
Tabled the idea of additional vending machines for the Fellowship Hall.
Announcements: food is needed for our Thanksgiving & Christmas food baskets, Christmas church decorating will be December 20th.
 

CHURCH COUNCIL... What? I didn’t know we had a church council! What is it? This is a group of 10-12 people, elected by the congregation at the annual congregation meeting held each November. It is the “business” leadership body of the church. The Council meets at least once per month. At this meeting, committees, special teams, Pastor, deacons, Noah’s Ark Preschool, all present reports of the activities that they have been involved in. It is a time to review the past activities, and make plans for the future. The council sorts through the issues that face a busy, growing ministry, celebrate the successes and make sure that everything that is done is put through the paradigm of the mission statement and the philosophy of the Lutheran Church. The Council works with the Pastor to make sure everything is done well and with great care for the well-being of the ministry of Holy Cross. They meet the second Tuesday of each month. The meetings are open to anyone in the congregation. Why not come and see how things are being done, getting done and sorted through. Maybe you’ll be able to help.

THE MEMBERS OF YOUR CHURCH COUNCIL ARE... Executive Board: President: Janice Savarese, Vice-President: Dee Hecker, Secretary: Barbara Drewes (appointed), Treasurer: Valerie Barba (appointed), Executive Board Member-at-Large: Jennifer Hecker. Council Members: Buck Barba, Bahna Brown, Katt Burkart, Neal Henshall, Bill Quaresimo, Ronald Tramazzo, Charlie Ward and Jo Williams. As a congregation, we make a commitment to support them, encourage them, pray them and help them in leading our mission and ministry.

EXECUTIVE BOARD... Huh? What is that? I didn’t know we had one! The Church Council is led by the Executive Board comprised of, President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and Pastor. According to our church constitution and in compliance with our national church body, this is how the “business” aspects of the church is organized and the “corporation” is led. Meetings are held at least once a month on the first Tuesday of the month @ 7:00 pm. Come and see how things are done. Maybe you can help.

COUNCIL PICTURES... in the lobby of the church you will find the pictures of your Church Council with their names. We hope this will help you identify who the “business” leaders of the church are. Do you have a question or a concern, want to help or give a suggestion, you can contact any one of these people. They are your elected leaders.

Preschool News

LOOKING FOR A PRESCHOOL?... Noah’s Ark Preschool of Holy Cross has an outstanding three and four year-old program. We still have openings for the Fall 2008-2009 school year. Please call 631-588-2942 and speak with our Director, Barbara Lusky.

Visitation / Elder Care News

EXPANDING OUR MINISTRY... Deacon Chris and Deacon Dee have hit the road! In addition to our weekly Sunday service at the Lakeshore Assisted Living Facility in Ronkonkoma, Holy Cross has now expanded our “Travel Team” to include The Arbors, an assisted living facility in Bohemia. HCLC will lead worship there twice a month at 10:00 on Saturdays. Interested in assisting with worship? Please see Chris or Dee, or call the church office at 631-588-9509.

ONLINE RESOURCES FOR OLDER ADULTS... The Internet is a haven for eldercare information. It’s also a haven for unscrupulous people looking to take advantage of older Web surfers. The folks at Smartmoney.com, a trusted financial Web site, have put together the following list of legitimate Web sites that serve the senior population and their families: Eldercare.gov Looking for local resources, such as a health insurance counseling center? The Eldercare Locator, located on the U.S. Administration on Aging’s Web site, allows you to plug in your ZIP code to retrieve links and phone numbers for state and county officials. You can also call Information Specialist. Medicare.gov is a must read for anyone over age 65. It explains the ins and outs of Medicare and how to file an appeal if a claim for coverage gets denied. It also answers care givers’ questions on long-term care. SSA.gov Log onto the Social Security Administration’s Web site for a Social Security Benefits Application. This site also offers a benefit calculator that shows how much your Social Security check might add up to. Other sites are: BenefitsCheckUp.org The National Council on the Aging; CCLA.org The Consumer Consortium on Assisted Living; AARP.org.

OUR MINISTRY AT LAKESHORE ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY... is going and growing under the leadership of Deacon Chris Thompson together with Deacon Dee Hecker. Each week the ministry of Holy Cross is extended to the good people here through worship and holy communion. Pastor Raggie joins them on the non-Sunday worship celebrations such as Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Christmas Day, Thanksgiving etc. Many people help to make this ministry the special loving ministry that it is... Doris Ahrens, Joe Mayer, Richie Pastena, Cathy Pastena, Susie Bishop, Peggy Meyers, Elaine Kotarski, Karla Mayer, and many of our young people and their parents. The Mission From God Band, under the direction of Charlie and Virginia Ward, often come by and lead in sing-a-longs and Christmas Caroling.

WITTRIDGE MINISTRY... Deacon Chris and her visitation team regularly visit this adult home bringing Holy Cross greetings, Holy Communion and their love, enthusiasm and warmth. Recently the Mission from God Band threw a Birthday Party for Jesus. Gifts were distributed to the residents that were purchased by the WELCA ladies. Everyone had a great time. There was plenty of dancing and singing and laughter to go around. Such special moments given with love from our mission and ministry here at Holy Cross.

DEACON CHRISTINE THOMPSON...

Has accepted a service award from the Lake Shore Assisted Living Facility on behalf of Holy Cross. She was invited to a Volunteer Luncheon in which the facility recognized the work of many of its volunteers. She came home bearing a gift check for our ministry to thank us for our caring service.

Thank you, Chris, for all you do!

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED ORGAN AND TISSUE DONATION?... it is easy to do. For more information you can call 646-291-4459. You can request a NY State Donor Registry brochure. You can give the gift of health and life even as you enter the gates of heaven. Prayerfully consider this gift. You can also sign the back of your driver’s license and make your wishes known to your family. Did you know those tissue transplants such as skin, bone, heart valves and corneas are important too?

Youth / Education News

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION - SCHEDULING CRUNCH... Due to Pastor’s very crowded schedule, she will not be able to hold First Communion Classes until the middle of January. She feels very strongly that it is something she should and needs to and wants to teach but there isn’t an uninterrupted time in her schedule until mid January. So hang in there 5th graders....your time will come. In the meantime enjoy the new style of Sunday School.

CONFIRMATION HAS BEGUN...  We have revamped the program and it will require more planning and out of the ordinary activities and participation on the part of parents. Come see what’s up. We are excited about this new program which we are developing ourselves. We know there will be glitches in the first year BUT...we also believe the kids and you will enjoy it more and learn more about being a fully devoted follower of Jesus. Keep an open mind and help us reach and teach your teen about Jesus Christ, hopefully they will have fun and not be bored and just maybe be inspired to do and give and serve.

CONFIRMATION PARENT FORUMS... will continue because you asked for it. They are being held on Monday nights. If you haven’t attended yet you are missing a great experience. There is lots of enthusiasm. After we spend the first 15-20 minutes with the kids, Pastor and parents gather together to meet and greet and learn a little more about what the program is about. We hope you can attend. Child care is available for your convenience. This hour and 15 minutes together may just help you cope with your life, your teen’s life, challenge you in your journey of faith, help you meet others in your church family, spark the fire of faith in you etc.

WHO IS HELPING WITH CONFIRMATION?... Did you know that nearly 1/3 of last year’s Confirmation class, is helping to teach this year? Isn’t that wonderful? We have 19 adults and teens teaching: Sue Fantel, Trisha Hecker, Mary Beth Heinicke, Jordan Gilliam, Jennifer, Schulz, Jennifer Hecker, Doris Ahrens, Nick Georghiou, Toni Bandows, Kristen D’Arienzo, Dee Hecker, Kelly Laux, Gabrielle Morin, Nicole Reyes, Janice Savarese, Charlie Ward, Virginia Ward, Bryan Yule, and Pastor Raggie. With our youth teaching other youth, they see each other in the hallways of school, jostle with each other and say, “See ya later at church.” How neat is that?

CASTING CROWN’S CONCERT... Mark you calendar now. We are going to Reading PA, Saturday, December 13th. We have secured two buses. IT IS A CONFIRMATION PROGRAM REQUIREMENT. We have a few tickets available to members of the congregation. Price is $100, including transportation.

CHECK OUT OUR YOUTH MINISTRIES NEWS UPDATES... click on this link: Youth Ministries News and it will take you there.

SUNDAY SCHOOL... Sunday School classes are at the 9:00 a.m. worship service and start at age 3 and go through the 6th grade. If you have a child that needs special services, please let us know in order for us to accommodate them. For further information about Sunday School, please contact Jenn Hecker or Lauren Rogers or the Church Office at 588-9509.

BOY SCOUT TROOP #1225... Holy Cross’ Boy Scout Troop 1225 is looking for boys who want to be a part of Boy Scouting. Our Troop camps, hikes, has fun earning merit badges and participates in many community service projects. Boys age 11 and up are welcome. Contact Jean Lucas through the church office at 631-588-9509.

MEAL MADNESS!… Meal Madness has begun, Monday nights at 6:15 pm downstairs in the Fellowship Hall!!! Confirmation students and their families are invited to come, hang out and enjoy a chance to settle in, have something hot to eat, do homework, let the kids socialize a little and catch their breath before class. Meals could be hamburgers, English muffin pizzas, hot dogs, macaroni, etc. The food is good, we get a large turnout of kids looking to eat and hang out and the food is free! Meal Madness is held downstairs in the Fellowship Hall and begins at 6:15 pm every Monday night when class is in session. Hope you join us! Parent volunteers are always welcome, too. We could also use the usual food donations (taco shells, spaghetti, tomato sauce, etc) for anyone who wants to donate. Thank you!

Outreach / Community News

NOVEMBER 16th - Harvest Home Sunday.. On Sunday, November 16th, we will celebrate our boutiful blessings by returning a small measure of our plentiful food to share with our neighbors. Please give generously to the grocery drive to replenish our Food Pantry for the Thanksgiving Food Baskets which will be assembled and delivered during the week of November 16th.

Items Needed: Canned vegetables: peas, corn, green beans, carrots, yams, baked beans. Canned fruit: peaches, fruit cocktail, cranberry sauce. Pasta: spaghetti, ziti, elbows. Pasta sauce: in jars or cans. Soup: chicken, beef, tomato. Desserts: Jello, pudding, canned pumpkin, canned pie filling, pie crust mix, cake mixes and frosting. Miscellaneous: instant mashed potatoes, canned gravy, stuffing mix, tuna fish, peanut butter, cereal, juice, hot chocolate, boxed mac & cheese, cornbread mix, coffee. Also: Grocery store gift cards and turkey certificates.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD - November 23rd...

It is once again time for Operation Christmas Child. Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian outreach organization, distributes millions of shoeboxes worldwide – filled to overflowing with gifts from generous people like you to children in 95 countries. Using a simple gift-filled shoebox and the Good News of God’s love, Operation Christmas Child brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world and introduces them to the story of God’s greatest gift, Jesus Christ. During distributions, children are offered colorful storybooks that present the Good News of Christ in over 70 languages. Once again, our Sunday School children are preparing these shoebox gifts to share and we invite the congregation to join in. Please bring your filled shoeboxes to church no later than Sunday morning, November 23rd.

We will be collecting shoeboxes on Sunday, November 23rd during morning Worship services.

(Shoeboxes may be dropped off at an earlier date downstairs in the Sunday School office.)

MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER WALK... Thank you to all who walked, and raised funds and awareness on a cold and windy Sunday, October 19th. As is our tradition, we walked early and returned for worship at 11:00 am. A free T-shirt, donated by Diana Losi was given away to the first 30 people who signed up. Thank you to Carole Gorton for the 20 hand-knitted pink scarves she donated to our walkers. This was our 9th year participating. We have many woman who are struggling with this cancer. We all know someone who has dealt with it or is currently dealing with it. We’ve lost loved one’s to this disease. We also have seen great strides in caring for and curing this disease. We are proud and pleased and humbled to participate in this walk. God bless you all.

LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK... Thanks to all who walked to raise funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk on October 4th. We raised over $1,335.00 for this worthy cause. Thank you also to all our parent drivers who helped get us there and back. Well done!

Guide Dog News... Here is an update from Louise Stoeber about the guide dogs in her life. We are grateful she has so generously shared them with our congregation...

“The Guide Dog Foundation of Smithtown has made Lily a breeder. She will be making new guide dogs. She will be bred sometime this year, and up to five times, if all goes well over the next few years. I will be her caretaker over that time and after she has completed her responsibilities I will be able to keep her. Yeah!!  Lily was selected because it was determined that she would make an excellent guide dog, and she passed all the screening test with flying colors (temperament, eyes, heart and hips). So puppies are coming. If you are interested in raising one of these adorable puppies give me a call (through the church office at 631-588-9509) or call the Guide Dog Foundation at 631-930-9000.  Lily will no longer be in the puppy training program, so no more visits to church. Check the web site for updates and pictures.

Augusta is in her second year of work as a guide dog, doing very well, and providing sight to women in Brooklyn. I still have Willy; he is six months old and making great strides on his journey. He and Lily are learning to get along and live together. He will be attending regular worship. As always, I thank all of you for your help in his training. I believe there is an African saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.”  Well, “It takes a church to raise a guide dog.”

I couldn’t do it without you all. Thank You.”  Louise

LEMONADE FOR ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL... On Sunday, May 25th, Ryan Krauth sold cups of lemonade alongside his family: mom Lisa, dad Kevin and sister Caitlin as they hosted the fellowship table between morning services. Ryan’s idea was to raise funds for the St. Jude Children’s Hospital by selling lemonade to accompany his family’s yummy coffee hour treats. Lots of thirsty people added their money to his donation box for this excellent cause. Way to go, Ryan!

We encourage all our members, young ones too, to look around and get involved with their community. Learning to care for others is something you can begin to learn at any age.

RED WAGON… A Food Challenge! A continued reminder that the food pantry at Holy Cross is in desperate need of non-perishable food. Your donations of food will make a huge impact on our community. Here's an idea - ask your family to put a bag by the door and every time they come back from shopping or search through the kitchen cabinets to prepare dinner, have them drop a can or a box of food in the bag. By next Sunday, the bag will be full and you just have to bring it to church with you. Boxed, canned or packed-in-plastic non-perishable food is best, please try and avoid glass jars. Here are some ideas: pasta, rice, peanut butter, tuna fish, canned soup, canned fruit, tomato sauce, mac and cheese, canned vegetables, juice. New parents and grandparents - you know how expensive diapers can get. Donations of disposable diapers are always a blessing. God bless you! "A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor." Proverbs 22:9

WEBSITES TO CLICK AND CARE... The next time you log onto the Internet, why not visit www.GreaterGood.com! This site gives you the option to shop, at various retailers, with up to 15% of every purchase automatically going to the cause you select - at no extra cost. You can support local & national charities, K-12 schools and college scholarship funds. But of even greater importance, you don’t have to shop at all, you can simply go to one of their many sponsored sites and by clicking the “DONATE FREE... ” button, help someone in need at no cost to you (each individual site only recognizes one click per day, per person).

THE BREAST CANCER SITE... That’s www.thebreastcancersite.com. This year, 43,300 mothers, sisters and friends will die from breast cancer. This site was founded on October 23, 2000, to help offer free mammograms to underprivileged women nationwide - women who will possibly go undetected, and even die -- without proper screening. Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women ages 40 - 55. 13 million women in the U.S. over 40 have never had a mammogram. Go to this site and click n “FUND FREE MAMMOGRAMS.” The donations from this site go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

FREE FOOD FOR SENIORS... The Commodities Supplemental Food Progrom / Fan offers free food for seniors 60 and older, including cheese, fruit, milk, cereal, juice, vegetables, meat and more. Singles whose gross income is $1,107 a month or less and couples whose gross income is $1,484 or less are eligible. For information, call 516-623-4568 or 516-623-4387.

CHECK OUT OUR OUTREACH MINISTRIES UPDATES... click on this link: Outreach Ministries and it will take you there.

CHECK OUT THESE COMMUNITY SERVICES... click on this link: Community Services and it will take you there.

WHAT AND WHEN TO BRING FOOD... to Holy Cross?  Any day of the week is a good time to bring food in. What to bring? Non-perishables, canned fruits and veggies, pasta, pasta sauces, peanut butter, tuna, soups, pie shells, juice, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, instant potatoes, goodies, napkins, paper towels, Kleenex etc. Also extremely helpful are grocery and turkey certificates. These foods are distributed not only at Christmas, but throughout the year.

A NEW PLACE TO LEAVE YOUR DONATIONS!...  To the left as you enter the main doors of the Church, you will see a new cabinet with sliding bins. They are labeled. Please place your item(s) in these bins. If your donation is not listed on a drawer, place it in an unlabeled drawer. Thanks for helping us stay organized!

OUR SERVICE MEN & WOMEN - ADDRESSES WANTED... Holy Cross Outreach would like to start a letter writing campaign to the family members and friends of our congregation who are currently serving our country at home and abroad. If you have a Military Service relative or friend, we would love to have their address. Please stop by the Information Center in the Narthex and give us the information.

Communications News

WE HAVE A NEW E-MAIL ADDRESS... for the Church office. It is HCLC@optonline.net. Please note it in your address book!

WE ARE GIVING THE WEBSITE A NEW FACE... We have an outstanding website right now but we are hoping to make it even better and more helpful...a tool for you to find out the information you need about our busy ministry quickly. We are looking for input from you that might help us to shape the way we get the information to you. We are going to offer a section that will provide calendar, activity information that stretches several months ahead. We are going to create sections that might be informative about God, our faith, our ministry, church concepts, book studies etc. Any suggestions? Let us know. E mail the church. Speak with Tom Moldovan or Pastor Raggie.

DON’T KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON OR HAVE A QUESTION?... Go to the information center in the lobby, someone will be glad to help you or direct you to the right person. Or call the church office, they’ll be glad to help you get the right form, speak to the right person, help you volunteer your time, schedule a baptism or a wedding.

ARE YOU ON OUR MAILING LIST?... We are working to update our records and if you are not on our mailing list and receiving all our mailings, please let us know. We want to make sure you are kept informed about the “happenings” at HCLC. Call the church office ASAP at 631-588-9509.

WE CONTINUE TO MAIL... our weekly bulletin to those Holy Cross Family members who are ill, hospitalized, residents in Nursing and Adult Homes, or unable to travel easily. Your generous gifts to our Greeting Tree will once again be used toward postage for this outreach ministry. We pray that God blesses them as they read His Word, and that they know that THEY ARE LOVED!

WANT TO BE MORE INFORMED ABOUT HCLC?... You can be added to the E-Mail list. You’ll be informed (when we have information) of special prayer needs, funerals, special needs people have, updates on planned activities etc. Please E-Mail Tom Moldovan and he’ll add you to the list: tmandd@optonline.net.

CHRISTIAN RADIO...  Encouraging, uplifting Christian radio is back on the air from Southampton to the Queens border. WLIX “The Voice of Hope” can be found at 94.7. 94.9, 96.5, 101.5, or 104.5 on FM. This is the first time in 12 years that we have a LI Christian radio station.