Table Talk

During this year's giving campaign, we have already seen an INCREASE in the total number of pledges from last year, and we've already SURPASSED last year's total amount pledged. We're so thankful for your support of the mission and ministry of WPC. We can only imagine what God has in store for us in 2027!

Giving Campaign for 2026

66 pledges totaling $286,000

Giving Campaign for 2027 (To Date)

68 pledges totaling $292,378

We are still expecting some more pledges before the end of the year. If you haven't pledged there is still plenty of time. Go to wpcboardman.com/give to make your 2027 pledge or CLICK HERE.

Last Tuesday, the people of Kansas elected the Rev. Adam Hamilton to represent them in the United States Senate. Some of you may recognize his name, while others may not. I have never met Adam Hamilton, but his ministry has influenced my life as a Christian and my work as a pastor in ways that I suspect he will never know.

When I was a seminary student, Hamilton published one of his first books, Leading Beyond the Walls: Developing Congregations with a Heart for the Unchurched. It told the story of the congregation he founded, the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, which began holding worship services in a funeral home chapel and now has an average weekly attendance of about 25,000 people combined across its ten in-person campuses, online platforms, and television broadcasts. I remember thinking the church’s name was rather fitting. Christians are, after all, people who believe in resurrection, even when the world around us seems preoccupied with death.

I couldn't afford to buy Hamilton's book, so I borrowed it from the library. I liked it so much that I outlined the entire thing in a Word document, hoping to preserve as much of what I had learned as possible. One of the ideas that stayed with me was the church's founding mission: "To build a Christian community where non-religious and nominally religious people are becoming deeply committed Christians." It has shaped how I think about the church, how I understand our mission, and what I hope we might become here at Westminster. In fact, some of the small things we do as a congregation have roots in lessons I learned from that little book.

Over the years, I've listened to hundreds of Hamilton's sermons, read his many books, and used some of his writing in our own small groups. One example of his influence may be familiar to you. A few years ago, during a particularly anxious election season, we participated in a well-received kindness campaign called "Do Unto Others." Some of you may remember the yard signs with the Golden Rule displayed in our neighborhoods. What you may not know is that the idea and resources came from the Church of the Resurrection, which generously invited other congregations to participate in a campaign it had developed. A church in Kansas helped a church in Boardman remind its neighbors that kindness still matters.

I've always admired Hamilton's ability to keep Jesus at the center of his thoughtful preaching and teaching while welcoming people who don't necessarily agree about everything else. His pastoral leadership style has produced a congregation that includes equal parts Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. They don't have to share the same political convictions to share a common identity in Christ. They worship together, serve their neighbors, care for people in need, and try to make a difference in their community. Among other things, for the last seventeen years the church has given away its entire Christmas Eve offering to support ministries that help people. In 2025, that offering exceeded $2.3 million. It is a remarkable example of what can happen when a congregation understands that the church exists for more than itself.

I suppose I have a personal soft spot for Adam Hamilton and his ministry. I spent the first twenty years of my life deeply connected to a United Methodist congregation, the same church my parents still attend. I also appreciate the fact that Adam and his wife, LaVonne, married when they were teenagers and have spent a lifetime navigating the joys and challenges of marriage together. Lindsay and I were married when we were barely twenty-one, and we understand something about growing up and growing older alongside someone you love. There are things about a person's story that simply make you feel a little connected, even when you've never met.

Earlier this year, when Hamilton announced that he was considering a run for the Senate, I found myself both excited and nervous for him. I was excited because I wanted a fellow pastor and colleague to succeed in his endeavors. a desire I hold for all of my colleagues. That being said, I was nervous because political campaigns can be difficult, unforgiving places. Candidates for office can be misunderstood, misrepresented, and sometimes treated unkindly. I wondered what the experience would mean for him and for the congregation that has called him pastor for so many years.

Now that he has been elected, Hamilton has indicated that he intends to continue preaching and caring for his congregation on a part-time basis, even as his responsibilities in Washington change the shape of his ministry. I understand his wanting to keep preaching and teaching. Being a pastor isn't simply a job we hold. It becomes part of who we are. I feel that way about the privilege of preaching, teaching, and caring for the people of Westminster. It is a calling I never want to take for granted.

To be clear, I don't share all of this because I expect everyone reading this to share my admiration for Adam Hamilton, or because his election should be understood as a victory for any particular political party. Elections bring different emotions for different people, and I know that this past election season has left some people celebrating and others disappointed. That's part of living in a country where we don't always agree.

I share it because I think we sometimes need reminders that the work of the church matters. Pastors need those reminders, certainly, but so do congregations. I remember Hamilton once being asked what advice he would give to young pastors. His answer was wonderfully simple: "Don't give up. People who give up never change the world."

I've thought about that advice more than once. Ministry can be discouraging. So can trying to make a difference in our neighborhoods, our families, and our communities. We spend much of our time doing ordinary things: gathering for worship, teaching children, visiting people who are sick, welcoming strangers, feeding hungry neighbors, comforting those who grieve, and trying to live faithfully in the places God has put us. We don't always see the difference those things make. Sometimes we wonder whether we're accomplishing anything at all. But the work matters. And sometimes we need someone to remind us not to give up. Sometimes we hear about a congregation in another part of the country that is saving lives, changing its community, and helping people discover the grace of Jesus Christ. It reminds us that the work matters, and that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves.

So, I will be praying for Adam Hamilton as he takes on this new responsibility. I will also be praying for all those who serve in the Senate and House of Representatives, in the Executive Branch, and in the Judicial Branch, as well as for our governors and other public servants. Whatever our political convictions, we can all hope and pray that those entrusted with positions of leadership will exercise their authority with wisdom, humility, compassion, and care for the people they serve.

And I will keep giving thanks for the pastors, congregations, and faithful Christians across the theological landscape whose work reminds the rest of us why we do what we do. Sometimes the influence of a church travels much farther than its members will ever know. A book borrowed from a library, a sermon listened to from a distance, a Christmas Eve offering that blesses a community, or a yard sign placed in a neighbor's front yard can become part of a story that reaches places we never expected. May we never underestimate what God can do through an ordinary congregation trying to follow Jesus. Even here in Boardman, Ohio.

See you in church.

Pastor Adam

For many years, Christmas poinsettias have been a beloved part of our Christmas Eve worship, offering a beautiful way to remember loved ones and honor people who hold a special place in our lives. We are grateful for everyone who has helped make this tradition part of our celebration of Christ’s birth.

Over the years, many of you have expressed a wish that the poinsettias could remain on display longer than Christmas Eve. We share that wish! The challenge, however, is keeping dozens of live plants looking their best. In recent years, Pastor Adam has sometimes spent part of Christmas Eve watering 50 or 60 poinsettias, trying to make sure they look healthy and beautiful for worship that evening. While there is something fitting about caring for these flowers as we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, this is also a reminder that maintaining this tradition requires more time and attention than our small staff can reasonably give, especially during an already busy season.

With that in mind, and thanks to a generous donor, we have purchased 32 beautiful silk poinsettias that will brighten our sanctuary throughout December and the Christmas season. Unlike live plants, these flowers can be enjoyed throughout the season and carefully stored for use in future years. We hope to add to this collection over time, creating a lasting display that will bring beauty to our worship for years to come. (Note--If you're curious how the new silk poinsettias look, we've already had people see them displayed in the church office and mistake them for live poinsettias.)

This Christmas will be our final year accepting orders for live poinsettias for Christmas Eve. We recognize that this tradition holds special meaning for many, and we make this change with gratitude for the memories it has helped us create. In the years ahead, we hope to invite church members and friends to contribute silk poinsettias in memory or honor of loved ones, allowing those gifts to become part of our sanctuary’s seasonal beauty for years to come.

Of course, fresh flowers may still be given in memory or honor of someone special throughout the year. You are always welcome to call the church office to arrange for a fresh flower arrangement to be displayed on the Communion table on a Sunday of your choosing.

Thank you for helping us care for our church, cherish the traditions that have shaped us, and find new ways to celebrate the beauty and hope of Christmas together.

One of the dinner guests, on hearing this, said to him, “Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!” Then Jesus said to him, “Someone gave a great dinner and invited many. At the time for the dinner he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is ready now.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of land, and I must go out and see it; please accept my regrets.’ Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please accept my regrets.’ Another said, ‘I have just been married, and therefore I cannot come.’ So the slave returned and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and said to his slave, ‘Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.’ And the slave said, ‘Sir, what you ordered has been done, and there is still room.’ Then the master said to the slave, ‘Go out into the roads and lanes, and compel people to come in, so that my house may be filled. For I tell you, none of those who were invited will taste my dinner.’”

Worship Leader: Lexi Lendak

Organist/Pianist: Kathy Miller

Gathering Music: Chaconne in F minor (Johann Pachelbel)

Choral Anthem: Sing the Goodness of the Lord (Larry Shackley)

Offering Music: Hexachordum Apollinis (Johann Pachelbel)

Sending Music: Fugue in C Major (Johann Pachelbel)

Donna Parsons

Pete Mirch

Faye Kisak

Pete Kisak

Brenda Hughes

Vivian Naome

Amy Sorvillo

Aiden McVeigh

Come for our 10:30AM worship service. Stay for lunch & fellowship. Freewill donations.

(Other upcoming luncheon date—December 6, Advent Dinner)

Join us for an evening of worship as we gather to give thanks to God on the eve of Thanksgiving. This is always a well-attended service, and the singing in the chapel is beautiful. Because the service is being held in the chapel, it will NOT be livestreamed.

The Canfield Community Concert Band is back at WPC for another joyful afternoon of Christmas music—and you’re invited! Join us on Sunday, Nov 29 at 2PM as this talented 50-plus member band fills our sanctuary with festive sounds to kick-off the holiday season. Bring family, friends, and neighbors for a wonderful community event full of beautiful music, holiday cheer, and the joy of Christmas! Free-will offering to support the band.

Want to join a small group?

Simply contact the group leader, and let them know you’re interested.

Church membership is NOT required for joining any group.

The early Church had a saying,

“unus Christianus, nullus Christianus.”

One Christian, no Christian.

The very fabric of our faith is experienced in community.

Each week we gather to connect with each other through conversation, grow in our Christian faith through Bible study, and encourage one another through prayer. Currently, we're discussing Scott McKnight's bestselling book The Jesus Creed a summary of what Christianity is at its core: Loving God and Loving Others. It fosters a practical understanding, appreciation of and application of Christian formation in grace and love toward God and Neighbor. Join us!

Meet in the Middle School Lounge for Games, Relaxed, Relevant Conversation & Prayer.

What if God is closer than you think? This fall, WPC students are invited to join Pastor Adam for Encounters, a 10-week exploration of some of the Bible’s most unforgettable moments with God—from a burning bush and a pillar of fire to Pentecost and the road to Emmaus. We’ll explore what these stories have to say about where God is, how we recognize God, and what it means to experience God in our own lives. There will be plenty of room for questions, conversation, and fun along the way. No Bible expertise required. No question is off limits. Just come ready to explore.

Panera Bread (7121 South Avenue, Boardman)

Book Study/Bible Study led by Lindsay Rodgers, 724-893-6243 (call or text)

Starbucks (7680 Market Street, Boardman)

Book Study/Bible Study/Conversation led by Pastor Adam, 724-893-6244 (call or text)

3rd Tuesday of Month, 10AM, Hearth Room

Call/Text Patti Ward 330-398-1449

Our next gathering is Tuesday, Nov 17th. We will be welcoming Amy Shope, the Co-Founder of Dylan’s House, a nonprofit organization providing safe and supportive housing for the autism community. Dylan’s House was started by Amy and Kevin Shope out of their love and devotion to their son, Dylan. Amy will share their journey and how we can help be a part of their success. We are always looking for organizations that are helping make life better, because we’re fortunate to have the resources to contribute to them. We will also enjoy a time for refreshments, along with conversations, inspirational readings and laughs. Invocation will be given by Lynn Smith and Hostess is Jan Machel. Lavonne Sanner as always organizes and keeps us in line!

Gracious Conversations at the Intersection of Contemporary Life and the Christian Faith

New members and diverse opinions are always welcome and respected. Conversation is informal, friendly, and focused on issues of interest to people of Christian faith.

Susan Sheridan, facilitator (330-507-9232 | ssher77@sbcglobal.net)

The schedule for topic discussions can be found on the counter in the church office.

New singers always welcome! There’s always space for you in the choir loft.

New ringers are always welcome to come and learn a new, fun musical skill.

1st and 3rd Sundays of the month (during 10:30AM worship services)

This year’s campaign kicked off Sunday, October 4, and campaign packets have been mailed to the homes of WPC members and friends. Also, the campaign webpage & online pledging can be accessed by CLICKING HERE

WPC supports our neighbors by collecting food and personal hygiene items for two outstanding local mission partners: Protestant Family Service and the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley. Both organizations are experiencing greater needs in these challenging times, and our gifts can make a real difference in the lives of those they serve. Donations may be placed in the wooden “apple basket” collection box located in the atrium. Every can of food, every bar of soap, every small item of care is a reminder of God’s love at work through us. As scripture reminds us, “Serve one another with the various colors of God’s grace” (1 Peter 4:10). Thank you for sharing so generously.

OCC is a chance to share God’s love with children around the world. Each shoebox you pack is more than a gift—it’s the beginning of a faith journey, with every box including a booklet that tells the good news of Jesus in the child’s own language. Pick up an official box in the main entryway. Read the informational brochures carefully—some items can’t be included. Return your filled shoeboxes to the church by Sunday, Nov 15.

As the temperatures drop, children in our community are in need of warm coats to face the winter ahead. We’re collecting new or gently used winter coats for students in elementary through 8th grade. Your simple act of giving can make a big difference—helping a child walk to school, play outside, or wait for the bus feeling cared for and protected from the cold. Donations can be dropped off in the main entryway through early December. Let’s share the warmth of Christ’s love—one coat at a time.

We’re participating again! Please join us in a community outreach project to take our faith ‘on the road’ to benefit the Salvation Army. Friday Nov 27, and Sat Nov 28 at the Giant Eagle Store (1201 Doral Dr., Boardman). Up to two volunteers per hourly shift this year. Please see further details and available times on the sign-up sheet in the Church Office. Questions? Ask Mark Luke: 330-518-6088. Thank you!

Help support our local food drive in partnership with the WPC Mission Partnership Committee. Provide Thanksgiving dinner for local families. Vouchers are given for turkeys, butter, and milk. Rolls are purchased by the church. Monetary donations are also appreciated. Collection deadline is November 22, with donated items to be placed on the collection area in the lobby. Items needing donated:

• boxed potatoes/stuffing
• cans/jars of gravy
• cranberry sauce
• canned sweet potatoes
• canned corn & beans
• cookies

Want to help pack Thanksgiving boxes? Join us in the atrium, Mon. Nov 23, 8:30AM.

WPC partners with Community Groups by providing rooms and space for folks to gather. All Community Groups have their own unique guidelines/rules/fees for participation. Please contact the groups directly for clarifying questions about involvement.

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 8:30AM & Tuesdays, Thursdays, 5:30PM

Fellowship Hall, Contact Brenda Hughes, 330-402-1654 (call or text)

Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9:30 a.m. in Hearth Room

Contact Patti Ward, 330-398-1449 (call or text)

Al-Anon, Sundays, 7PM, Hearth Room or Pavilion (weather permitting)

Overeaters Anonymous (OA), Mondays, 7PM, Preschool Entrance

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Wednesdays, 7:30PM (Closed Meetings)

Fellowship Hall or Pavilion (weather permitting)

Gamblers Anonymous (GA), Fridays, 7:30PM (Closed Meetings)

Lower Level of Church or Pavilion (weather permitting)

Scout Troop 60, Tuesdays, 7PM, Fellowship Hall

Contact Janet Petro, Administrator, 330-755-7041, CCWAcademy@yahoo.com

CCW Academy offers structured classes for children aged 2.5-5 years (9am—12pm) and childcare (7am—5:30pm).

Have a joy? We’d love to celebrate with you. Have a concern? We’d love to encourage and support you. Don’t hesitate to share your joys and concerns with Pastor Adam OR send a note to our beloved email prayer chain: rgibbs22@zoominternet.net

This list is an invitation for you to hold your WPC siblings & friends in prayer. Names added to this prayer list will remain on the list for one month or whenever you request it be removed, whichever comes first. After a name has been removed, we will gladly add it to the list again if such a request is made.

Alison Dobro

Emma Eggleston

Eleanor Miller

Jaclyn DiSibio

Bill Palkovic (son of Cheryl Palkovic)

Dolores Janik

Sandy Byers

Marty Taylor

Lucy Stuart

Jan Pickens

Dianna Meehan

Cheryl Fox

Alma Moore

Tom Davis

Bob Morris

November Birthdays

Nov 13 Michael Janik

Nov 13 Lori McVeigh

Nov 14 Robert Fulton

Nov 17 Thomas DiSibio

Nov 17 Lexi Lendak

Nov 17 Philip Rhodes

Nov 17 Susan Sanner

Nov 18 Carol Day

Nov 19 Donald Powell

Nov 20 Anthony Galbreath

Nov 21 Jeffrey Burrows

Nov 24 Mathew Hunter

Nov 25 Michael Pauline

Nov 26 Anna Baker

Nov 27 Susan Sheridan

Nov 28 Robert McCollum

Nov 28 Kaylee Sorvillo

Nov 30 Julia Castellano

Nov 30 Allison Madgar

Deacon

Joe Parsons, 330-503-8354

Deacon

Cheryl Palkovic, 330-651-7686

Email: westch2@zoominternet.net
Website: www.wpcboardman.com
Location: Westminster Presbyterian Church, Stadium Drive, Youngstown, OH, USA
Phone: 330-758-4513

Email: adamjosephrodgers@gmail.com
Phone: 724-893-6244

Location: 119 Stadium Drive, Youngstown, OH, USA
Phone: 330-755-7041
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCWacademyPreschool