A new sign stands prominently outside the First Reformed Church of the United Church of Christ in Hamburg. Truthfully, the sign is a double entendre.
The obvious meaning is that a new electronic sign now provides a rolling message in bold color. It announces worship times, special event details, words of enlightenment and any information the church desires.
The more obscure meaning is that it represents the active participation of the youth of the church.
Bruce Yelles, President of the church consistory, says, “We are grateful for the youth involvement in our church.”
In this case, Mason Wolber represents that youth involvement. The son of Toby and Karen Wolber, Mason is a junior at Hamburg Area High School who has a lifelong involvement in the Boy Scouts of America. Seeking a project worthy of attaining the Eagle Scout status, Mason approached Pastor Darryl Hamm of First UCC for some possible ideas.
Because one of the criteria for an Eagle Scout project is to do something for the community that provides long term value, Pastor Darryl asked Mason if he would have an interest in creating a new electronic sign for the church.
Though Mason had no prior experience with a project of this type, he accepted the challenge. But then he loves challenges. In high school, he pitches for the baseball team and plays both defensive end and tight end on the football team.
Mason’s father, Toby, says that what makes him most proud of his son is that “he is driven to do the right thing” and “he mentors younger kids and stands up to bullies who pick on younger students.”
The project certainly presented challenges. Though working with Roy Berstler, a deacon at the church, it was Mason’s responsibility to guide every step of the project. This included everything from contacting sign companies to determine types of signs available, selecting and ordering the sign, arranging for shipment, and working with contractors on the required ground work and installation. Unfortunately, even the weather was a challenge to Mason. Our extensive rain in these months repeatedly delayed outdoor work that needed to be done. On top of that, the selected sign company is headquartered in Florida so even the impact of Hurricane Irma also caused unforeseen issues and delays.
That the sign is now up and working is a testament to Mason’s determination and tenacity.
So, with this success behind him, what’s in Mason’s future? Well hanging out with friends, becoming the best pitcher he can be and possibly attending East Stroudsburg University to become an athletic trainer. His track record indicates he’ll likely succeed.
