Durham Friends Woman’s Society Meeting Minutes 6.16.2025 

Hybrid Meeting held at Nancy Marstaller’s home in Harpswell

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President,  Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Kim Bolshaw on Zoom: Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Dorothy Hinshaw, Joyce Gibson, Qat Langlier

Cards: For Friends.

Program and Devotions: We took turns reading from Blueprints, “Weeping May Endure For A Night, But Joy Comes In The Morning”, (Psalm 30:5) By Dr. Rubai Mandela. Her article discussed how our lives can be joyous, also painful, and her deep devotion to scripture, prayer and trust in God. Though the loss of her beloved nephew caused her to grieve,  her faith gave her a path forward. We discussed how we have grown through loss and distress,  learning to better handle difficult and volatile situations.

Treasurer’s Report: Nancy told us that the plant sale earned $1060. One half will be given to the Good Shepherd Food bank, the rest split between USFWI fund for education of girls in Kenya and the Ramallah Friends School in Palestine. 

Minutes: Susan read the 5.19.2025 minutes.

Tedford Meal: Kim’s TeamA provided Hot dogs and beans, potato salad, watermelon, clementines, apples and bananas. The July 7 meal will be handled by Team B, Nancy Marstaller contact person. Durham Friends provide dinner for Tedford House on the first Monday of each month. Contributions of prepared food or money for the Team to buy food for Tedford are always welcome.

Next Meeting: September 15 at 7 PM. We will hold our annual Woman’s Society Potluck Dinner at the Meeting House on August 18 at 6 PM. There will be no meeting in July.

Other Business: Kim relayed that our Cuba Yearly Meeting Friend, Kirénia Criado Pérez will be visiting Maine this summer. There will be a picnic welcoming her on Portland’s Eastern Prom on Thursday, July 24 and a gathering at our Meeting House on Friday, July 25. Kirén will lead the Bible half hour at Sessions in August.

Dorothy closed the meeting with this poem by Florence Earle Coates:

Who walks the world with soul awake
Finds beauty everywhere;
Though labor be his portion,
Though sorrow be his share,
He looks beyond obscuring clouds,
Sure that the light is there!

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Durham Friends Woman’s Society Meeting Minutes 5.19.2025 Hybrid Meeting

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President,  Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Joyce Gibson, Kim Bolshaw.

Cards: For Friends.

Program and Devotions: We took turns reading from Blueprints, “Story About My Experience – God Still Speaks” by Dr. Gladys Bunyasi of Kenya. Scripture – Psalm 46:10. Dr. Bunyasi’s son began experiencing convulsions and was diagnosed with epilepsy which  did not respond well to medication.  It was discovered that the boy was being bullied at school. The medication was stopped, and with prayer and faith, the convulsions ceased. Dr Bunyasi believes that through the miracle of her son’s recovery and his continuing successful life, God has spoken to her family.  

Treasurer’s Report: We have $105.58 in the account. Nancy will send $55. gained from the sale of Martha Sheldon’s knitted hats to New Beginnings. We decided that of this years’ plant sale proceeds, half will go to the Good Shepherd Food Bank, the rest to scholarships at Ramallah School and school fees for girls in Kenya.

Minutes: Susan read the 4.21.2025 minutes.

Tedford Meal: Team A will prepare the June 2 dinner. Kim Bolshaw is contact person (207) 808-3007. Durham Friends provide dinner for Tedford House on the first Monday of each month. Contributions of prepared food or money for the Team to buy food for Tedford are always welcome.

Next Meeting: Monday, June 16 at 7 PM.

Other Business: Our annual plant sale has been set up and we made our first sale! It  will continue for 2-3 weeks, unless we run out of plants more quickly. Feel free at any time during the sale to bring perennials or seedlings you can donate and label them. There are pots available in the horse shed if you need any. PROCEEDS: Plan to peruse the plants for something you might like. As usual, we will ask for donations, which will be used to support charitable work. Any questions? Check with Dorothy Curtis, Kim Bolshaw, or Nancy Marstaller.

Thanks for all your help and support!

Dorothy closed the meeting with this poem: 

Spring Has Come!

Crocuses and buttercups

Are peeping through the sod;

And rows of bluest hyacinths

And beds of pansies nod.

The trees are dressed in fleecy green,

And some in pink and white;

The winter’s gone, and all the buds 

Burst forth to our delight.

We thank God for the cheerful spring,

For sunshine and for showers,

For birds that sing their gleeful songs,

And outdoor playtime hours.

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Durham Friends Woman’s Society Meeting Minutes

4.21.2025 Zoom Meeting

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President,  Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw.

Cards: To Friends.

Program and Devotions: We spent this time sharing personal stories.

Treasurer’s Report: We have $85.58 in the account.

Minutes: Susan read the 3.17.2025 minutes.

Tedford Meal: Leslie Manning’s Team F will bring the June 2 Tedford meal. Durham Friends provide dinner for Tedford House on the first Monday of each month.

Contributions of prepared food or money for the Team to buy food for Tedford are always welcome.

Other Business: *Dorothy Curtis has received the gift to our meeting of a quilt created in 1943 by Durham Friends and the local community. It was given to the Booker family who experienced loss from fire, and now has been returned by a descendent, Faye Passow. *Ann Ruthsdottir is looking for washable ribbon for her creative project making flowers. *Our annual plant sale will start in May, with set-up starting Wednesday, May 21.The official start of the sale is Sunday, May 25, and will continue 2-3 weeks, unless we run out of plants more quickly.

SETTING UP: Please bring any perennials or seedlings you can donate and label them. There are pots available in the horse shed if you need any.

PROCEEDS: Plan to peruse the plants for something you might like. As usual, we will ask for donations, which will be used to support charitable work.

Any questions? Check with Dorothy Curtis, Kim Bolshaw, or Nancy Marstaller.

Thanks for all your help and support!

Dorothy closed the meeting with this quote from Harriet Beecher Stowe:

In all ranks of life the human heart yearns for the beautiful, and the beautiful things that God makes are His gift to all alike.

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Woman’s Society Minutes, March 17, 2025, and also the USFWI NE Spring 2025 Newsletter

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary.

Cards: For Friends.

Program and Devotions: We took turns reading the newsletter Marion Baker wrote and sent us from the USFWI Northeast Regional Meeting held February 2, 2025.

Treasurer’s Report: Two hats knitted and donated to WS by Martha Sheldon were sold for $35. We have $85.58 in our account.

Minutes: Susan read the 2.22.2025 minutes.

Tedford Meal: Team D, Dorothy Curtis, and Kim Bolshaw with a contribution from Susan Gilbert brought meat loaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, banana bread, and gingerbread to Tedford House. The April 5 meal will be made by Team E, contact person Nancy Marstaller.  Durham Friends provide dinner for Tedford House on the first Monday of each month. Contributions of prepared food or money for the Team to buy food for Tedford are always welcome.

Other Business: At the 3.16. Meeting For Worship, Dorothy Curtis presented Syretha, Nancy’s  daughter, with a quilt she finished for the birth of her first child, Lulu, which was given and received with tears and joy. The blocks had been embroidered by Clarabel Marstaller, Margaret Wentworth, Bea Douglas, Kitsie Hildebrandt, Sukie Rice, Dorothy Hinshaw, Sue Wood, Nancy Marstaller, Dorothy Curtis, Linda Muller, Harmony Brown, and Deanna Coro. In the thank you card to Dorothy from Syretha, Joe and Lulu, Syretha wrote “Thank you so much for …the gift of the quilt…it means so much to me to have a quilt with squares done by so many people I have known and loved, that they will touch Lulu even though they never got to meet her here on earth.”

Nancy Marstaller brought up the Quaker way of expressing to each other that we are unique and wonderfully made in the image of God. She also commented that for Durham Friends quilt making and giving is important to us as it demonstrates caring.

For St. Patrick’s Day, Dorothy ended the meeting the Irish prayer: 

May the road rise up to meet you, 
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And rains fall soft upon your fields.

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

The USFWI NE Spring 2025 Newsletter

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Dorothy Hinshaw, Martha Sheldon, Kim Bolshaw.

Cards: For Friends.

Program and Devotions: We took turns reading the Blueprints article “Seeking a New Church Family”, by Lisa Lickel. Scripture Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hymn: “In Christ Alone.”  Having downsized their lives upon retirement, Lisa and her husband moved to a quiet, rural location and looked for a new spiritual community. They found true welcome in the small local Quaker Meeting and began practicing Quaker worship  and values.

Minutes: Susan read the 1.20.2025 minutes.

Treasurer’s Report: Nancy sent $380. to Tedford. We have $100.58 in our account. We discussed organizations we usually give to, SASSAM, New Beginnings, and Wayfinder. We will begin by sending $50. to SASSAM this month.

Tedford Meal: Dorothy Curtis’s Team C will bring the March 3rd meal. Durham Friends provide dinner for Tedford House on the first Monday of each month. Contributions of prepared food or money for the Team to buy food for Tedford are always welcome.

Other Business: Martha knitted some beautiful hats to be sold at the Meeting House, with proceeds to benefit Woman’s Society causes. We will send this money to New Beginnings. Nancy would like to hold the April meeting at her home in Harpswell.

Nancy showed a photo of Velasco Friends with Mimi Marstaller,  Kristina Evans, and Maggie Fiori in attendance.

Dorothy ended the meeting with a quote from Abraham Lincoln:

“I cannot conceive how a man could look up into the heavens and say there is no God.”

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

2024 Durham Friends Woman’s Society Treasurer’s Annual Report

Durham Friends Meeting House 

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw.

Cards: For Friends

Program and Devotions: We took turns reading the Blueprints article by Jill Jay, “God Speaks, Do I Listen? Philippians 4; 6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. A single mother of 3, Jill had a deep commitment to help young children with learning. Through many challenges,  she continued her own education, and learned ways to make a great difference in children’s education. Looking back, she observed her own growth in learning to listen and trust what God had to tell her.

Minutes: Susan read the 12.16.2024 minutes.

Treasurer’s Report: Nancy said we have $535.58 in our account. $430. was raised from the silent auction, and will be sent to Tedford Housing.

Tedford Meal: Nancy’s team B provided ham,  mac and cheese, milk, fruit and dessert. The February 3rd meal, brought by Sarah Sprogell’s Team C, will include both meat and vegetarian chili, cole slaw and corn chips. Durham Friends provide a meal for Tedford House on the first Monday of each month. Contributions of prepared food or money for the Team to buy food for Tedford are always welcome.

Other Business: There will be a meeting of the Northeast Regional USFWI on February 22 at 9 AM. A Zoom link will be provided by Marion Baker. There will be three speakers. The theme is how to help younger people in their ministry. The organization needs a treasurer.

Dorothy ended the meeting with a quote from Elvis Presley: “Values are like fingerprints, nobody’s are the same but you leave ‘em all over everything you do.”

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Celebrate the vital & varied ministries of younger Quaker women!

Winter Zoom Gathering of United Society of Friends Women International—Northeast Region

22nd of February, 2025, 9:30am to 12 noon Eastern Time

Join us for a panel of younger Quaker women with ministries,as we explore

“Lifting Up Younger Quaker Women as They Live Into Their Sense of Call”

A Panel Moderated by Emily Provance of NYYM, with:

• Briana Hallowell from New England YM,

• Nicole Bennett Fite from New York YM, and

• Sussie Ingosi Ndanyi from Nairobi YM.

     They will share the ways they have felt led by the Spirit todo an amazing variety of ministries, how they experienced their call, how they were supported to follow their leading, and ways older Friends can help lift up younger Quaker women.

Schedule: (all times EST)

 9:30am ​Zoom opens for informal sharing/greetings

 9:40am​ Devotions led by Pastor Janice Ninan of NYYM and translated into Swahili by Pastor Joyce Machaha of Nairobi YM

10:00am ​Introductions led by Marian Baker-NEYM

10:05am ​Panel – moderated by Emily Provance-NYYM

11:05am ​Small breakout groups sharing what arose during the panel

11:40am ​Singing in multiple languages led by Congolese Women

11:50am​ Announcements and closing prayer

12noon ​End of event

For ?’s Marian Baker

Friends gathered at Dorothy Curtis’ Home for the Annual December Meeting and Christmas Party.  

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Kim Bolshaw, Linda Muller, Wendy Schlotterbeck, Krisna Evans, Theresa Oleksiw. On Zoom: Susan Gilbert, Secretary.

Cards: Kim will send cards to Friends.

Program and Devotions: Dorothy read a children’s book to us, “Why Christmas Trees Aren’t Perfect” by Richard H. Schneider. Set in the Carpathian Mountains, the author gave human traits to evergreen trees. In beautiful perfection, each tree desired to be cut and placed in the castle for the Queen. One little tree sacrificed its’ beauty and stretched branches to hide a rabbit from wild dogs, gave a wren cover in a storm, and was food for a starving fawn. In this process, the tree’s form became irregular. The Queen, at first critical, acknowledged that living for others made one beautiful in the eyes of God, and chose the little pine for her Christmas tree.

Minutes: Susan read the 11.18.’24 minutes written by Nancy Marstaller. 

Treasurer’s Report: Nancy paid $60. in dues to the Northeast America region of USFWI.  Our account has $180.58. The $80. proceeds from our silent auction will be given to Tedford Housing. 

Tedford Meal: Team A, lead by Kim Bolshaw, brought rotisseried chicken, carrots with ranch dressing and ice cream. January’s dinner will be made by Team B, led by Nancy Marstaller. Durham Friends provide a meal on the first Monday of each month. Contributions of food or money to buy food for the meal are always welcome.

Other Business: Linda Muller reported that the mitten tree yielded 4 hats, 30 pairs of mittens, I scarf, 1 pair of gloves and 1 pair of socks. This was delivered on 12.21for the 12.22 annual Wabanaki solstice gathering as gifts for their youth group. Nancy would like to host another meeting at her home, in March or April. We discussed how the WS could contribute to the Maker’s Night.

Dorothy ended the meeting with a reading from Phillipians 44:

 Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, rejoice.

After the meeting, names were drawn for our gift exchange, and cookies and tea were enjoyed amid conversation and laughter.

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Durham Friends Woman’s Society Meeting Minutes 10.21.’24

Members gathered at the Meeting House and joined on Zoom

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Kim Bolshaw, Linda Muller.  On Zoom: Susan Gilbert, Secretary.

Cards: Kim will send cards friends.

Program and Devotions: Program and Devotions: We took turns reading from the USFWI Blueprints  ‘24 – ‘25 Edition,“God Still Speaks”, the program “Holy Surrender” by Gabrielle Bailey. Isiah 43:2, Hymn “It Is Well With My Soul”.  Gabrielle tells how in dealing with serious health concerns she learned to surrender and trust in God’s loving presence. 

Minutes: Susan read the 9.16.’24 minutes. 

Treasurer’s Report: In Sept. we received $115. more for jam and jelly donations for a total of $525. $35.38 was paid for Blueprints and $515. was sent to LACO. Thank you Dorothy Curtis! Our balance is now $65.58. Blueprints are $5 each and dues $5. per person. We still need to pay dues by the end of November. We have cash to buy new tablecloths and need to decide exactly what is wanted, size and how many.

Prayers: For Friends.

Tedford Meal: Nancy Marstaller’s Team E brought beef stew, potato-leek soup, rolls, cider, apples, and dessert. November’s meal will be brought by Leslie Manning’s Team F. Volunteer contributions of food or donations are always welcome. 

Other Business: Linda Muller requested donations of 25 pairs of nice quality mittens or gloves  for the Wabanaki youth who gather at the Meeting House. The Wabanaki group leader is Heather Augustine. There will be a “Mitten Tree” for a display, and handmade gifts or cookies would be welcome, as well. 

Dorothy ended the meeting with a quote from Harriet Beecher Stowe:

In all ranks of life, the human heart yearns for the beautiful; and the beautiful things God makes are His gift to all alike.

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Durham Friends Woman’s Society Meeting Minutes, September 16, 2024

The meeting was held at Nancy Marstaller’s home.

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer.  On Zoom: Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Dorothy Hinshaw, Martha Sheldon, Leslie Manning, and Qat Langelier.

Cards: Nancy will send cards this month, to Friends.

Program and Devotions: We took turns reading from Blueprints “A Holy Joy” by Katherine Murray. Scripture: John 15: 9 – 11. Hymn: “Joys Are Flowing Like a River”. At a time of great stress in Katherine’s young adult life, she envisioned “Joy – if not now, when?” . This calmed her, bringing wonder, curiosity, and humor.  Her discovery of joy continued to enhance Katherine’s spiritual development throughout her life. 

Minutes: Susan read the 6.17.’24 minutes. 

Treasurer’s Report: As of our meeting, we had received $410 in donations for jam, earmarked for LACO. We have a balance of $490.96, with $410 for LACO, leaving $80.96 available. We need to pay dues ($5 per member) and for Blueprints. A separate donation for Dorothy’s relish earned $80, to put toward buying new tablecloths. We discussed donating to Getry Agizah’s program to support education for African youth. Nancy will request an additional contribution from the  Charity Fund. Money gained from a silent auction in November could support Tedford.

Prayer’s: For Friends.

Tedford Meal: Team D prepared hot dogs,  potato salad and ice cream on September 2. Nancy Marstaller’s Team E will bring the October 7 meal. Volunteer contributions of food or donations are welcome. 

Other Business: Durham Friends will host a fundraising dinner for LACO on October 5. Shiloh Chapel and UCC Church of Durham are to share preparations. The Woman’s Society annual potluck supper was held August 19th, combined with a birthday party for Ed Hinshaw. We received a thank you note from the Hinshaws.

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Durham Friends Woman’s Society Meeting Minutes 6.17.’24

We gathered at the Meeting House and Dorothy Hinshaw joined us on Zoom.

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw, Dorothy Hinshaw.

Cards: For Friends.

Program and Devotions: Kim read for Blueprints “Giving Thanks for Love Unexpected” by Nellie Malloy. Scripture Ephesians 3:20, John 14:1, Isaiah 65:24a, Jeremiah 29.11. Song: More Love to Thee, and Make Me a Blessing. Nelly is a member of Cascade Quaker Meeting, a small meeting high in the northern Blue Mountains of Jamaica. Experiencing deep grief at the loss her husband and son to cancer, Nellie found comfort in God’s love. When faced by a possible cancer diagnosis herself, panic and fear were soothed as she studied her Bible and asked her meeting and family for prayers. Further tests did not reveal cancer. Through her life’s challenges, Nellie’s love and gratitude for God has deepened.

Minutes: Susan read the 6.20.’24 minutes, written by Nancy Marstaller.

Treasurer’s Report: The Woman’s Society account gained $942. from the plant sale, plus $45. in donations. Balance $1012.96.

Prayer’s: For Friends.

Tedford Meal: Prepared by Kim’s Team A, the meal was Mac and cheese, with or without ham, bananas, clementines and apples, little carrots and salad dressing, with ice cream for dessert. The July 1st meal will be brought by Team B. Volunteer contributions of food or donations are welcome. 

Other Business: We discussed having another silent auction this year, to be planned at our next meeting in September. We will not meet in July, and on August 19th we will have our annual Woman’s Society dinner, all Friends and friends welcome.

Dorothy closed the meeting with a reading of  Thomas à Kempis:

“Have confidence in God’s mercy, for when you think He is far from you, He is…near.”

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Present: guest Getry Agizah (from Kenya), Dorothy Curtis, Kim Bolshaw, Sarah Sprogell, Dot Hinshaw, Dorothy Grannell, Paula Rossvell, Nancy Marstaller, Susan Gilbert, Leslie Manning, Marian Baker, Madeleine Vache (8 in meetinghouse, 4 on Zoom)

1. As Susan Gilbert was attending by Zoom, Nancy took minutes.

• We wrote cards for Friends.

• Getry Agizah shared about her work for Friends United Meeting with Friends Peace Teams and the Girl Child Education program, which is based in the Turkana and Samburu regions of Kenya where education for girls is not considered important. Girls did not often go on to high school because of cultural norms and the expense of school fees (one year of high school costs $500 tuition). Women are important because they bring a dowery to a marriage, but are less valued than men in the culture. The culture is patriarchal; men believe their wives have to be under their husbands. Getry described how Kenyan woman were concerned about this and Eden Grace helped set up this program. Eden was able to convince people who might have been hesitant because she was a white Western woman who came from where other respected missionaries had come.

So far 652 women have benefited from this program. Some girls are rescued from early marriages and/or female genital mutilation. They receive mentoring as well as education. They often marry after school, and their lives and their family lives are improved by having this education.

Many young girls still get pregnant as men take advantage of them sexually, but these men don’t necessarily want to marry and support the children. Parents do not always teach their children about sex education. Sometimes young mothers are married off to older men, as a 2^nd or even 3^rd wife.

Getting sanitary supplies is an issue for many families, as they are expensive. Some American and Kenyan women are now making re-usable sanitary pads to give to those who need. Marian will send us a pattern in case we want to make any.

The climate has also exacerbated some problems with violence. Turkana had a drought for 5 years and now is having severe rains which cause flooding. Many people in this area are nomads, raising cattle. Cattle are used to pay the dowery for a marriage. When the drought made that harder, cattle rustling increased.  Sometimes young boys are also kidnapped while watching cattle to join bandit “militias”, even boys as young as 6 years old. These boys don’t go to school and are just trained as warriors and to be loyal only to one group or tribe, ready to use violence against those from other tribes. The hope is to get more boys into school where they can meet those from other tribes and learn more skills and ways to relate to others, so they can learn life is not just about guns.

• The treasurer’s report was read and accepted. The April offering was $40. Our current balance is $125.96.

• We agreed to split the proceeds from the plant sale with half going to the Root Cellar and half to the USFWI Children and Youth projects. Of the USFWI projects, half will go to Girls Secondary Education support in Turkana and Samburu and the other half to the other 3 projects.

• Inspired by Getry’s report, we agreed to donate $100 to Friends United Meeting for the Girl Child Education project.

• There was no report for the May Tedford Shelter meal. Team A will provide the June meal.

• Dorothy Curtis has presented 2 baby quilts since our last meeting: one for Gabriel, Ezra and Laura Smith’s baby, and one for Doug and Ellen Bennett’s new granddaughter.

Dorothy closed the meeting with this quote:

“Within each of us, just waiting to blossom, is the wonderful promise of all we can be.”
(Anonymous writer)

Nancy Marstaller, secretary pro tem

Durham Friends Woman’s Society Meeting Minutes 4.15.2024

We gathered at the Meeting House. WIFI for ZOOM was not available.

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw, Qat Langelier, Stevie Dutton.

Cards: For Friends.

Program and Devotions: We took turns reading from Blueprints, “God’s Eternal Love” by Natoo Sabina. Scripture: Ephesians 3:17-21.  In 2001 Natoo was inspired in her faith by hearing Pastor John Moru of the Turkana Friends Mission preach on the wonders of God. Natoo’s story is of overcoming loss and hardship to achieve education, marriage and children, with the help of prayer and God’s love. She is a primary school teacher in Turkana County, Kenya, presiding clerk of Kanamkemer village meeting, a part of Lodwar Monthly Meeting, and chair of the USFW sales group in the village.

Minutes: Susan read the 3.18.’24 minutes.

Treasurer’s Report: The account balance is $85.96.We received $20. in March.

Prayers: For Friends.

Tedford Meal: Prepared by Team E: Ham, sweet potatoes, green salad, and chocolate chip cookies. The meal on May 6 will be brought by Leslie Manning’s Team F. Volunteer contributions of food or donations are welcome. 

Other Business: The Woman’s Society will hold another plant sale this year, to be set up on May 22 for a start on Memorial Day weekend. We ask Friends use caution to avoid donating invasive species of worms and plants.

Dorothy closed the meeting with a reading:

God’s grace is too big, too great to understand fully. So we must 

take the moments of His grace throughout the day with us: the 

music of the songbird in the morning, the kindness shown in the afternoon, and the restful sleep at night.

-Anonymous

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw.

We met at Dorothy Curtis’ home. We visited her sewing room, and admired the hand embroidered quilt squares based on nursery rhyme characters created by Durham Friends for an expected birth, the quilt to be finished by Dorothy. As we conducted our meeting, we enjoyed hot tea, cookies, cheese and crackers and chocolate. 

Cards: For Friends

Program and Devotions: We worked on Helen Clarkson’s Memorial Minute, writing organized by Nancy Marstaller.

Minutes: Susan read the 2.19.’24 minutes.

Treasurer’s Report: The account balance is $115.96. Nancy examined our 2023 WS donations, looking for a charity we had not donated to. We chose Tedford Housing for a $50. donation.

Prayers: For Friends 

Tedford Meal: Team D provided hot dogs, potato salad, broccoli slaw, and woopie pies. Team E will bring the April 1 meal, with Nancy Marstaller as contact person. Volunteers to contribute food or donations are welcome. 

Other Business: Jane Dough of USWFI sent a reading list for the upcoming Blueprints edition, on the theme “ God Still Speaks”. We discussed books to purchase for our library. Marion Baker informed us that there will be a North East gathering of US Friends Woman’s Society International over Memorial Day weekend at Oakwood Friends School in Poughkeepsie, NY.

We closed the meeting listening to the Cambridge singers perform:

God Be In My Head

God be in my head and in my understanding

God be in my eyes and in my looking

God be in my mouth and in my speaking

God be in my heart and in my thinking

God be at my end and in my departing.

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw.

Cards: For Friends.

Program and Devotions: We brainstormed writing Memorial Minutes for Sue Wood and Charlotte Ann Curtis, ideas organized and typed up by Nancy Marstaller. 

Treasurer’s Report: Previous balance $70.96. January offering  $20.  February 19 offering $45. Currant balance $115.96.

Prayers: For Friends.

Tedford Meal: Team C prepared chili, tortilla chips, cole slaw, cornbread, biscuits, ice cream, cookies and strawberries. March 4 meal team D contact person is Dorothy Curtis.Volunteers to contribute food or donations are welcome. 

Susan brought a hymn to read as a prayer, with which we closed the meeting:

God Be In My Head

God be in my head and in my understanding

God be in my eyes and in my looking

God be in my mouth and in my speaking

God be in my heart and in my thinking

God be at my end and in my departing.

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Present: Dorothy Curtis, Kim Bolshaw, Sarah Sprogell, Dot Hinshaw, Ann Ruthsdottir, Nancy Marstaller

1. In the absence of Susan Gilbert, Nancy will take minutes.
2. We drafted a memorial minute for Margaret Wentworth.  Nancy will type it up and send it out for suggestions, also send to Ministry and Counsel members for review and see if they want it brought to this Sunday’s monthly meeting.
3. We wrote cards for friends.
4. The treasurer’s report was read and accepted. Our current balance is $50.96. Tonight’s offering was $20.
5. The January Tedford Shelter meal was ham, potatoes, green vegetable, drinks, and dessert. Team C, led by Sarah and Dorothy, will provide the February meal. We received a thank you card from the Tedford staff.
6. We enjoyed working on the memorial minute as a group, and decided that next month we will draft one for Charlotte Ann Curtis. Looking ahead, we plan to draft ones for Helen Clarkson and Kitsie Hildebrandt.

Nancy Marstaller, secretary pro tem

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert Secretary, Wendy Schlotterbeck, Kim Bolshaw, Tess Hartford.

We met at  Dorothy Curtis’ home and combined our meeting with the traditional WS Christmas party and gift exchange, held for the first time since 2019.  Surrounded by Dorothy’s collections of Christmas ornaments, and tree, we shared fun and laughter, conducted our meeting, signed cards to Friends, and enjoyed tasty Christmas cookies, hot herbal tea, grown and blended by Kim, and  delicious fruitcake made by Dorothy from Clarabel Marstaller’s recipe.

Cards: For Friends. Wendy has cards to donate to the WS card ministry.

Program: We took turns reading from Blueprints, “Showing Up In The Neighborhood”, by Margaret Fraser an American Quaker now based in Northern Ireland. Scripture: Luke 6:37 -38. “ Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”  Margaret felt called to move to Ireland, and settled near  East Belfast.  In this area of  religious and social divisions, poverty and unrest, drug gangs,   Margaret volunteers at the Methodist Church’s East Belfast Mission which offers “An urban regeneration project in inner East Belfast providing shared space for community transformation and renewal… It’s about providing shared space for people from all backgrounds and communities in East Belfast.” 

Minutes: Not available at the meeting.

Treasurer’s Report: November’s offerings were $18. Nancy paid the annual WS dues. We have $50.96. in our account. Our request for $1000. from the DF Charity Fund to be given to Warm Thy Neighbor  passed first approval at the monthly business meeting.

Telford Meal: Team A, Kim and Wendy provided scalloped potatoes with and without ham, carrots, broccoli, and a big pumpkin pie. January, Nancy’s team B will be cooking. She suggested that some of her large active team could be moved to teams with fewer volunteers. Kim offered to help any team if she is called.

New Business: Nancy suggested that our January 15 meeting be spent writing the Memorial Minute for Margaret Wentworth and others who have passed.

Dorothy ended the business meeting with a traditional Shaker poem:

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Present: Dorothy Curtis, Kim Bolshaw, Nancy Marstaller, at the Meetinghouse

1. We will hold our next meeting in person at Dorothy Curtis’ house, with zoom as an option, Monday, December 18 at 7 PM. We will hold an exchange of small gifts, handmade if possible.
2. We are sending thinking of you cards to Friends and will pray for them also.
3. Nancy led the program using the lesson from “Blueprints”- Rooted in Love by Deb Moyer. The author shared her experiences when her husband got the Covid virus and was so sick they thought he might die. She shared the devotional readings that really helped her, as well as the prayer chain organized by their Meeting. Her closing prayer:

“Father God, thank you being ever present with us. Thank you for letting us “feel” your presence through those who care for us here on earth. Bring to mind those whom you want us to care for in your name. Help us to live each day letting your love and light flow through us. We love you and praise Your name. Amen.”

• The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The treasurer’s report was read and accepted. Our current balance is $92.96. We’ve received $30 for memberships and $26 for Blueprints. We need to pay dues of $60 to USFW-NE. Tonight’s offering was $18.
• There was no report of the November Tedford meal. Team A, led by Kim, will provide the December meal.

Dorothy closed the meeting with this poem from Children’s Prayers: A Little Book of Prayers and Praise by Lucy Gray Kendall.

A LITANY FOR THANKSGIVING

For the blessings from Thy hand

Thou hast sent upon our land- Father, we thank Thee.

For Thy gifts of rain and snow,

Sunshine, too, to make things grow- Father, we thank Thee.

For the golden wheat in sheaves,

The glory of the autumn leaves- Father, we thank Thee.

For the purple grapes hung low,

For the corn shocks in a row- Father, we thank Thee.

— Nancy Marstaller, secretary pro tem

Monday 9.18.2023, via Zoom

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw, Qat Langelier

Cards: Kim will send cards to Friends.

Program and Devotions: Dorothy Curtis talked about her trip to Kenya, Africa where she attended the United Society of Friends Woman’s International Triennial and went on a Safari. She began by thanking the Woman’s Society for our support and her shared her appreciation for support from the Masons. Dorothy traveled alone, and was grateful for NH Friend Marian Baker’s advice and assistance. Marion has extensive experience with travel to Africa, Kenyan Quaker Meetings and USWFI. Sunday Meetings Dorothy attended included a sermon, drumming, singing, and prayer. A prayer day at the meeting House in Nakuru included many children. The Triennal conference was held at the Kabarak University in Nakuru, over several days, with the theme ‘’Come, Abide, Go’’. The children attended one evening and sang for everyone. Dorothy discovered that the sense of time in Africa is not like ours, and Qat recommended the article, “Culture-Based Negotiation Styles,” which describes monochronic and polychronic time, found at https://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/culture_negotiation. On Safari, Dorothy saw a lion pride eating a zebra, monkeys, baboons, elephants, giraffes, hyenas, water buffalo, hippos and alligators. She appreciated the elephant preserve where care is given to the injured and orphaned elephants, and also saw an orphaned baby rhino. Dorothy shopped in Nakuru for African made fabric, and found the designs all very large, so will alter her quilt designs to accommodate the bold size. The next USWFI Triennial will be in Indiana in 2027. Occasionally, the gap between USWFI Triennial meetings is 4 years.

Minutes: Susan read the minutes from our 6.19.2023 meeting. Next meeting will be October 16 at 7 PM.

Treasurer’s Report: Nancy reported that the $1146. proceeds from the plant sale was sent to the USWFI Children and Youth Fund. Thanks were given to Kim and others who helped make the sale a big success. Ongoing, Dorothy Curtis’s jams earned $290. The silent auction earned $453.50 at the time of this report, with a bit more expected. The $790.50 will be rounded to $800. and sent to LACO Food Pantry in honor of Margaret Wentworth. There has been a donation in honor of Kitsie Hildebrandt, and we will think over and decide in October what to support with it.

Prayers: We hold Friends in our hearts.

Tedford Meal: In July, Nancy’s Team B brought grilled burgers and chicken salad. In August, Sarah Sprogell’s Team C brought hot dogs, potato salad, baked beans, water melon and cookies, and September, Dorothy Curtis’s Team D brought hot dogs, corn, potato chips, ice cream and cookies. Food and donations for Tedford House meals are welcome. 

Other Business: Nancy will order the new USFWI Blueprints program study book for those who want one. WS Membership dues are now $10. yearly. The Woman’s Society August 21 potluck was attended by 12 people. Marian Baker is trying to arrange  a USWFI Northeast  meeting in October. Qat is exploring the issue of dietary-restricted food insecurity for people in Lewiston/Auburn.

Next Meeting:  October 16 at 7 PM. Dorothy will try to arrange a hybrid meeting that day.

Dorothy ended the meeting with a poem:

The Gift of Friends

God knew we needed something more

Than budding earth and sunlit sky,

And so he sent us friends to love,

To lift our hearts and spirits high;

God chose to teach Love’s wondrous art,

Of comfort, cheer that never ends

By giving to the thankful heart

The dear, good gift of faithful friends.

— Author Unknown

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

 Update: The Woman’s Society silent auction continues at the Meeting House this Sunday Aug. 20th, and concludes at the annual potluck Aug. 21st, to which all are welcome. Funds go to LACO in memory of Margaret Wentworth.

Items are being sought for this year’s silent auction being sponsored by the Woman’s Society. All proceeds will go to LACO, the Lisbon Area Christian Outreach food bank.

The auction itself begins Sunday, August 13, and concludes with a 6pm potluck supper at the Meetinghouse.

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw, Mey Hasbrook.

Cards: Kim will send cards to Friends.

Program and Devotions: Kim read from Blueprints “Abounding in Hope’’, by Nancy McCormick. Scripture: Psalm 96: 1-4. Hymns: Like the Woman at the Well and Great is Thy Faithfulness. This was the theme at Cuba Yearly Meeting, which Kim attended during her recent visit to our Sister Meeting in Velasco, Cuba. She found the Cuban Quakers joyful in the face of difficult, hard lives, also happy, helpful, and encouraging. She described them as not apologetic, welcoming her and including her as “one of the gang.’’ We discussed times in our lives when we  felt hopeful.

Minutes: Susan read the minutes from our 4.17.2023 meeting.

Treasurer’s Report: There is $11.05 in the account. We discussed fundraisers. The annual plant sale beginning May 25 and a silent auction beginning August 13 will benefit the Woman’s Society with proceeds from the plant sale going to the United Society of Friends Woman International children and youth projects.

Prayers: For Friends.

Tedford Meal: The June 5 meal was prepared by team A. July 3 will be brought by team B, leader Nancy Marstaller. Food or donations for Tedford House meals are welcome. 

Other Business: The WS will not meet in July. On August 21 we will have a pot luck supper at the Meeting House. Charities the Woman’s Society supports – New Beginnings (Lewiston kids needing help), USFWI (children and youth projects), Tedford House (shelter), Belize School Feeding Program, Ramallah School (special needs students), SASSM (victims of sexual assault) LACO (food pantry), LIHEAP (heating assistance). Wendy Schlotterbeck and Kim set up the plant sale. Kim made an informative sign for the Meeting House shed door listing charities. The Silent Auction will begin August 13 and end at the WS potluck on August 21. All are welcome to attend the potluck.

Thanks to all who contributed to the plant sale.

Dorothy ended the meeting with a quote:

Give thy heart’s best treasure,

And the more thou spendest,

From thy little store,

With a double bounty,

God will give thee more.

              — Adelaide A. Proctor 

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Present, via Zoom: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary, Kim Bolshaw.

Cards: Kim will send cards to Friends.

Program and Devotions: We took turns reading Program #3 from Blueprints: “Hope From Believing in God’s Goodness”, by Charlotte Strangelove. Scripture: Romans 15:13, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.’’ Recommended Song: Good, Good Father or Great is Thy Faithfulness.
The message encouraged us to promote hopeful truths based on scriptures from the Bible.
We shared how the goodness of God is evident in our lives.

Minutes: Susan read the minutes from our 3/20/2023 meeting.
Treasurer’s Report: We have $11.05 in the account. The Woman’s Society traditionally
has donated money to causes that support children and youth. Since the pandemic, there
has been less participation in the Woman’s Society, and fewer fundraising events. We
discussed ways to earn funds and also would be grateful for charitable donations from
outside our group.

Prayers: For Friends, including those Kim sends cards to.

Tedford Meal: On April 3 Nancy’s Team E prepared lasagna, pumpkin soup, green
salad, bread, cookies and ice cream. The meal on May 1 will be made by Leslie
Manning’s Team F. Volunteer contributions of food or donations are welcome.

Other Business: We discussed Kim’s trip to Cuba, and the question of Memorial Minutes
for Helen Clarkson, Charlotte Anne Curtis, and Margaret Wentworth.

Dorothy Curtis ended the meeting with a quote from Madame de Stael: “To pray together, in whatever tongue or ritual, is the most tender brotherhood of hope and sympathy that men can contract in this life.”

Respectfully Submitted, Susan Gilbert

Present: Dorothy Curtis, President, Nancy Marstaller, Treasurer, Susan Gilbert, Secretary,
Kim Bolshaw, Dorothy Hinshaw

Cards: For Friends. Kim will check the current copy of the Advocate magazine in the
Meeting House for names and addresses of Friends ministering in the field, reviving the
tradition of Durham Friends sending them birthday cards. The cards will be available for
group signing after Meetings.

Program and Devotions: Dorothy, Nancy and Kim took turns reading Nikki Holland’s
contribution to Blueprints, Ministering Like a Scuba Diver’’. Scripture:But seek first
his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well’’
(Matthew 6:33). Nikki lives in Belize City, where she is Director of Friends United
Meeting’s ministries in Belize. There, learning to scuba dive over the coral reef motivated
her to bring the peace, joy and wonder she found underwater to her life and ministry. She
draws parallels between lessons of safe diving and her everyday life: “Always Keep
Breathing. Stay calm. Care for your equipment. Understand your responsibility. Buddy up.
Rest. Listen to your body. Equalize.’’

Minutes: Susan read the minutes from the 2.20.2023 meeting.

Treasurer’s Report: Nancy has given Dorothy Curtis the money for her upcoming trip to
the USFWI Triennial in Nakuru, Kenya July 2 – 8. She made a correction to the 2.20.’23
minutes: Checking bal. $2314.72, with $2203.67 for triennial expenses, leaving $111.05
available. We decided to send $50 each to Wayfinder Schools and Sexual Assault Services
of Midcoast Maine. The Woman’s Society would appreciate donations by Friends to be
contributed to worthy causes.

Prayers: For Friends

Tedford Meal: On March 6, Dorothy and Kim provided chicken nuggets, salad, mashed
potatoes, oranges, milk and chocolate cake. The April 3 meal will be prepared by Team E,
Nancy Marstaller, team leader. Volunteers to contribute food or donations are welcome.

Other Business: Marian Baker, a NH Friend active in the United Society of Friends
Women International is bringing the message to our Meeting on April 2. Kim told us of her
trip to Cuba. Fritz Weiss presented to Velasco Meeting the gift of a group – created wall
quilt, put together and finished by Dorothy Curtis. Nancy’s creation of a 5 block printed
prayer flag with birds, owl and bee was given and hung in the Velasco Meeting House
window.

Dorothy Curtis ended the meeting with the poem, “Joy of Life” by an unknown author:
The joy of life is living it and doing things of worth,
In making bright and fruitful all the barren spots of earth.
In facing odds and mastering them and rising from defeat,
And making true what once was false, and what was bitter, sweet.
For only he knows perfect joy whose little bit of soil
Is richer ground than what it was when he began to toil.