Our church awarded Belyea Scholarships to Gail Parker and Tyler Rodenberger during the August 15 service in recognition of their pursuits of higher education. The scholarships were presented by Joan Clinton, former head of the Trustees.

Gail, who has been a member of our church since the 1970s during which time she served as organist, head of the Trustees, chair of the Christmas Fairs, and many other volunteer services, received her scholarship for continuing work to become a Certified Lay Minister. She has been taking Zoom courses with classmates from all over the country and says, “I look forward to using the training and skills here at CEUMC”.

Tyler, who has been attending our church since age 5 and has often shared his extensive musical talents with frquent piano and organ solos and participation in Jazz Sundays, received his scholarship for entering his freshman year at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York. He says he has no specific plans in the general education programs, but would like to pursue fields in medicine and music.

During the Sunday service, Tyler played the piano with his mother, Beth Austin, singing the inspirational “Blessings” by Laura Story. He also thanked Choir Director Faith York for being his mentor over the years, and for the support he received from Stephen Bither for Jazz Sunday performances.

Pastor Kathleen Decker Szakas blessed both Gail and Tyler upon receiving their scholarships.

The Belyea Scholarship is named for Arline Belyea, who passed away in 1984. She was a child of the Great Depression and left school early to go to work. She eventually was forced to retire early because of chronic lung disease. In her last years, Arline discovered a love of music and an appreciation for the medical profession. She developed a renewed faith thanks to visits from the pastor and members of the Cape Elizabeth United Methodist Church.

Arline’s husband started a memorial fund to assist students in music, medicine and ministry.

Congratulations and good luck to Gail and Tyler!