 |
| Susquehanna LINK, September 2025 Read or download the PDF at https://susumc.org/link/ |
Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Susquehanna LINK, September 2025
Thanks & Giving: An Evening with Mission Central
 |
Thanks & Giving: An Evening with Mission Central
Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 5 p.m. | Central Penn College
This November, Mission Central invites you to join us for an evening of gratitude, generosity, and community impact. Our annual fall fundraising event - Thanks & Giving: An Evening with Mission Central - is more than just a night out. It’s a chance to gather in fellowship, celebrate what God has done through this ministry, and ensure that vital resources continue reaching people in need here in Pennsylvania, across the country, and around the world.
Set in the beautiful Conference Center at Central Penn College, the evening will feature a delicious meal, inspiring Mission Moments, and opportunities to connect with others who share a heart for service. Guests will also enjoy both silent and live auctions filled with unique items, experiences, and gifts - perfect for early holiday shopping while supporting a great cause.
The funds raised at Thanks & Giving make a real, tangible difference. Every ticket purchased, every auction bid placed, and every sponsorship secured helps us equip our 200+ community partners with the resources they need to meet urgent needs. Whether it’s providing Hygiene Kits for families displaced by disaster, Cleaning Buckets for communities rebuilding after floods, mobility equipment for seniors, or school supplies for children, your generosity fuels every shipment that leaves our Mechanicsburg warehouse.
In 2024 alone, the Mission Central warehouse supported 8.7 million people with more than $23.5 million in resources. None of that happens without the faithful support of friends, churches, and organizations who believe in our mission: Connecting God’s Resources with Human Need. This dinner is our single largest fundraising event of the year, and it is essential to sustaining our work in 2026 and beyond.
There are many ways to be part of this special night:
Attend: Gather friends, family, or members of your congregation for a memorable evening together.
Sponsor: Businesses, organizations, and individuals can support at levels starting at just $500, with recognition in our program and across our communication channels.
Donate: Can’t make it in person? Consider donating an auction item, underwriting part of the event, or making a direct gift to help us reach our goal.
We hope you’ll mark your calendar for Saturday, November 15, and join us for an evening that truly embodies the spirit of Thanks & Giving. Together, we can celebrate what has been accomplished and look forward to all that is possible when we come together in faith and generosity.
For tickets, sponsorship details, or more information, please email missioncentral@missioncentral.org or call 717-766-1533.
Remembering Our Heritage
By Dr. Milton Loyer, Conference Archivist
September – 100 years ago.
The Scranton and Wilkes-Barre Districts of the Wyoming Conference were severely hampered when the area coal miners began a strike on September 1, 1925, that lasted for six months. As reported in the conference journal: “The strike, the longest in the history of the coal industry, brought its usual animosities, bickering and divisions. Every branch of trade was affected. Stores put clerks on reduced time. Hotels closed their dining rooms. Farmers had little market for their produce. It was inevitable that this paralysis of business should affect our churches. Services were grouped, and in some instances auditoriums were closed. One preacher reported that 30 per cent of his men were idle.”
October – 50 years ago
In 1975, the Wyoming Conference dissolved the four-point Alderson charge near Harvey’s Lake. Alderson became a station appointment, and Kunkle became a part-time appointment to be supplied. The October 1975 Wyoming United Methodist announced the pulpit would be filled by Michael Bealla, a student at the Lehman campus of PSU. “Mr. Bealla, who has served as a guest preacher in the area and has now received his preaching license, and his new bride of one month, Miss Bonnie Shillabeer, will begin serving immediately.”
Noxen and Ruggles became a two-point charge and constructed a new parsonage next to the Noxen church, which was dedicated October 5, 1975, by district superintendent Rev. Edgar F. Singer for use of Rev. Edward F. Sebring.
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
One Matters Award: Faith UMC, Hallam - River Valley District
In partnership with Discipleship Ministries, the Susquehanna Conference presents the One Matters Award to one church in each of our districts at Annual Conference.
This award has a strong focus on making disciples because, by integrating into the church body, an individual may experience the personal transformation to potentially engage in the church’s mission for the transformation of the world. While most Discipleship Ministries programs focus on existing members, OMA focuses on new members. After all, ONE Matters.
The following congregations received the One Matters Award in 2025:
Freedom Trail District
Salem Guldens UMC
Mountain Valley District
Covenant UMC, Lockhaven
North Central Rivers District
Eatonville UMC & Evans Falls UMC
Northern Wilds District
Millerton UMC
River Valley District
Faith UMC, Hallam
Faith UMC, Hallam
River Valley District
Each summer, Faith UMC partners with three neighboring
churches in Wrightsville to host a vibrant Community Vacation Bible School.
Their preschool, serving 85 children, helps young learners build a strong
foundation for elementary education. The church's G2 Youth Group shares
Christ's love through simple acts of kindness - offering cookies during their
annual Cookie Walk and serving hot chocolate and candy at the community
Christmas Tree Lighting.
But their care for the community doesn't stop there. This
congregation is passionate about feeding the hungry, hosting monthly food
distributions that draw long lines of cars, and delivering food boxes to local
seniors. In the past year, they have welcomed 9 new members and celebrated one
baptism - clear signs of lives being touched and transformed.
One Matters Award: Millerton UMC, Northern Wilds District
In partnership with Discipleship Ministries, the Susquehanna Conference presents the One Matters Award to one church in each of our districts at Annual Conference.
This award has a strong focus on making disciples because, by integrating into the church body, an individual may experience the personal transformation to potentially engage in the church’s mission for the transformation of the world. While most Discipleship Ministries programs focus on existing members, OMA focuses on new members. After all, ONE Matters.
The following congregations received the One Matters Award in 2025:
Freedom Trail District
Salem Guldens UMC
Mountain Valley District
Covenant UMC, Lockhaven
North Central Rivers District
Eatonville UMC & Evans Falls UMC
Northern Wilds District
Millerton UMC
River Valley District
Faith UMC, Hallam
Millerton UMC
Northern Wilds District
In the small town of Millerton, nestled near the border of
New York, Millerton United Methodist Church may be modest in size - but it
overflows with life, faith, and love. This welcoming congregation is led by
Betsy Huels, a Certified Lay Minister who serves three churches while working
full-time. Her dedication to nurturing faith and community is inspiring.
Recently, Millerton's church family joyfully expanded. On Vision Sunday, two adults received the sacrament of baptism and six others became new members. The day was filled with celebration, dreaming about the future, and coming together to serve others by assembling food packages for those in need.
Moments like this remind us that hearts are still turning to
Christ, discipleship is growing, and leadears like Betsy - and congregations
like Millerton - are keeping the light of the Church burning brightly. Let us
celebrate their faithful witness.
https://www.facebook.com/millerton.umc
One Matters Award: Eatonville & Evans Falls UMCs, North Central Rivers District
In partnership with Discipleship Ministries, the Susquehanna Conference presents the One Matters Award to one church in each of our districts at Annual Conference.
This award has a strong focus on making disciples because, by integrating into the church body, an individual may experience the personal transformation to potentially engage in the church’s mission for the transformation of the world. While most Discipleship Ministries programs focus on existing members, OMA focuses on new members. After all, ONE Matters.
The following congregations received the One Matters Award in 2025:
Freedom Trail District
Salem Guldens UMC
Mountain Valley District
Covenant UMC, Lockhaven
North Central Rivers District
Eatonville UMC & Evans Falls UMC
Northern Wilds District
Millerton UMC
River Valley District
Faith UMC, Hallam
Eatonville & Evans Falls UMCs
North Central Rivers District
Nestled along Bowman's Creek in rural Northeastern
Pennsylvania, just south of Tunkhannock, the Eatonville and Evans Falls United
Methodist Churches are two small, historic congregations rooted in Christ's
promise of abundant life. With average attendances of 26 and 17, these
senior-age churches remain vibrant in spirit.
Despite the challenges of a shifting local economy and
changing demographics, these congregations embody an "Attitude of
Gratitude." They faithfully steward their resources, engage joyfully in
misison, and remain connected to the wider Church. Their outreach includes
weekly meal deliveries through the Endless Mountains Cooperative Ministry and
Seven Loaves Soup Kitchen.
Rather than retreat, they're innovating. Last August,
Eatonville UMC hosted its first-ever Vacation Bible School for Seniors. Modeled
after children's VBS, it included worship, songs, crafts, games, and snacks -
drawing participants from ages 17 to 85. The three-week event averaged 18
attendees and led to two professions of faith and a youth confirmation at Evans
Falls.
One idea. One invitation. One life. In God's economy, every
"ONE" echoes into eternity.
One Matters Award: Covenant UMC, Lock Haven Mountain Valley District
In partnership with Discipleship Ministries, the Susquehanna Conference presents the One Matters Award to one church in each of our districts at Annual Conference.
This award has a strong focus on making disciples because, by integrating into the church body, an individual may experience the personal transformation to potentially engage in the church’s mission for the transformation of the world. While most Discipleship Ministries programs focus on existing members, OMA focuses on new members. After all, ONE Matters.
The following congregations received the One Matters Award in 2025:
Freedom Trail District
Salem Guldens UMC
Mountain Valley District
Covenant UMC, Lockhaven
North Central Rivers District
Eatonville UMC & Evans Falls UMC
Northern Wilds District
Millerton UMC
River Valley District
Faith UMC, Hallam
Covenant UMC, Lockhaven
Mountain Valley District
Covenant United Methodist Church in Lock Haven is becoming a beacon of light in its community. Since Pastor Justin Frear's appointment in July 2022, the church has embraced a renewed vision rooted in prayer, discernment, and relationship. With a new discipleship pathway, members are growing more confident in sharing their faith - through both actions and words.
 |
Their outreach began with a local work camp, One Family at a Time, which is now a cluster-sponsored ministry that helps neighbors with essential home repairs. This inspired a Toolbox Ministry, offering year-round support for small home projects. The church also brings worship beyond its walls with an annual service in the park, creating space for those not yet ready to enter the sanctuary.
New minsitries are emerging organically - a grief support group launched by a visitor (now becoming a member) and the Covenant Cafe, offering care for those with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Several connected through these ministries now attend worship. In this seaon of growth, the church has celebrated two baptisms and continues to bless the community by providing food to 60 local schoolchildren through Blessings in a Backpack.
Covenant is living its mission - one relationship, one neighbor, one life at a time.
One Matters Award: Salem Gulden’s UMC - Freedom Trail District
In partnership with Discipleship Ministries, the Susquehanna Conference presents the One Matters Award to one church in each of our districts at Annual Conference.
This award has a strong focus on making disciples because, by integrating into the church body, an individual may experience the personal transformation to potentially engage in the church’s mission for the transformation of the world. While most Discipleship Ministries programs focus on existing members, OMA focuses on new members. After all, ONE Matters.
The following congregations received the One Matters Award in 2025:
Freedom Trail District
Salem Guldens UMC
Mountain Valley District
Covenant UMC, Lockhaven
North Central Rivers District
Eatonville UMC & Evans Falls UMC
Northern Wilds District
Millerton UMC
River Valley District
Faith UMC, Hallam
Salem Gulden’s UMC
Freedom Trail District
One matters. One life is beloved by God, a soul previous in God’s sight. At Salem-Guldens United Methodist Church in Gettysburg, PA, that truth has come to life in powerful ways.
What began as a practical effort to raise funds for stained glass window repairs became something much more. “A few years ago, the windows needed repair and maintenance,” shared Rev. Mick Dawes. But the fundraisers turned into outreach events, and those who came were invited into the life of the church. Fundraisers became friendraisers, and friendships blossomed into faith.
In time, some of these new relationships grew into something deeper. After holding a Mission Possible workshop, the church set a goal to increase membership by 10%. They offered a Lenten membership class, welcoming visitors to explore the United Methodist Church’s history, beliefs, and practices. On Pentecost Sunday, four individuals professed their faith in Jesus Christ and became members.
In 2023, the church recorded no baptisms or professions of faith. In 2024, they celebrated four professions of faith and two baptisms - evidence of spiritual renewal. And yes, the stained glass windows were restored without taking a single loan. God is clearly at work in this beloved congregation, one person at a time.
A Season of Possibility
Dear Friends,
As a new school year approaches, we at Everstand (formerly United Methodist Home for Children) are inviting you to help us launch a season of possibility—for young people who need it most.
With some school supply categories rising more than 20% in cost since the pandemic, for the students we serve, many of whom face significant financial hurdles, this growing burden can make back-to-school season feel overwhelming.
Your support can be the difference between a student simply returning to school and truly thriving. With your generosity, we can provide the tools, support, and stability that pave the way for lifelong success. All donations make an impact—for example:
- $25 could help to offset the cost of essential school supplies, ensuring every student has the basics to start the year with confidence.
- $50 could sponsor one individualized tutoring session, building a strong academic foundation for a struggling learner.
- $100 could provide access to engaging enrichment opportunities like art, culinary, or horticulture programming.
- $250 could supply multiple students with backpacks fully stocked with appropriate grade-level materials.
- $500 could underwrite calming kits or sensory tools to support students coping with trauma or anxiety.
You have the power to ensure that the youth in our programs start this school year ready to succeed—inside the classroom and beyond. You can visit www.everstand.org/backtoschool to make a fast, secure contribution today. No matter the size of your gift, it will create a lasting impact on a young person’s life. If you prefer to support our youth by purchasing supplies directly, please use the link provided to access our Amazon wish list. https://a.co/3OcNDH6
Thank you for being part of the Everstand family. Your support makes all the difference—and we’re so grateful to have you with us as we begin a new school year full of hope and promise.
Warmly,
Laurie Anne “LA” Spagnola, MSW
President & CEO, Everstand
Welcome Sara Shaver – New Disaster Response /Volunteers in Mission Coordinator
Matthew Shineman, Director of Communications
The Susquehanna Conference is delighted to welcome Rev. Sara Shaver as our new Disaster Response/Volunteers in Mission (VIM) Coordinator.
With a background in education, Sara first earned a degree in special education before being drawn into church ministry. When the Director of Christian Education at her church moved away, Sara was invited to apply. That open door eventually led her to pursue an M.Div. at Candler School of Theology. She was ordained in the South Alabama Conference, where she went on to serve seven congregations, one church in our conference (Camp Hill, PA) and later as a District Superintendent. After officially retiring on June 30, Sara felt God calling her to continue ministry in a new way.
Having lived through hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding in South Alabama, Sara brings firsthand experience of the urgent need for disaster response. “This is a way to be the hands of helping that the community needs,” she shares. “Much of my work as a DS and pastor was administrative. Now, I’m excited for the chance to be more hands-on and see the fruits of the labor.”
Sara prefers to think of them not as “mission trips” but as mission journeys — opportunities that deepen faith as much as they provide help to others. Her favorite scripture is Romans 8:28, reminding her that God can make good of all things.
When asked what wisdom she would share with the Conference, Sara reflected: “Remember that David didn’t put on Saul’s armor. God has created you to be what he wants you to be.”
Outside of ministry, Sara is a hiker who stays grounded through daily devotions and walking. She’s an “extroverted introvert” who enjoys coffee over tea, is a morning person, and loves ’80s and ’90s pop music. Her favorite book is “To Kill a Mockingbird”, her favorite season is fall, and she imagines Sandra Bullock playing her if a movie were ever made about her life. Recent travels took her to England (her favorite place so far), and she hopes to visit Alaska and Greece one day.
Sara brings a unique perspective to the Susquehanna Conference, having served in multiple contexts and seen many different ways of doing ministry. “I love the challenge, and I love to learn,” she says. Her first priority will be to get organized and build strong foundations for this vital ministry of connection and response.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Rev. Sara Shaver to her new role as VIM/Disaster Response Coordinator.
Sara can be contacted via email at drm@susumc.org or by calling 717-766-7441 x3402.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)