2010 FPC Annual Report

of the

2010

andCongregation CorporationO F F I R S T P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H O F B E T H L E H E M

KNOW GOD LOVE PEOPLESERVE THE WORLD

In 2010, the members of FPCB, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity, donated $93,000 and 17,000 hours of labor to build a home for Ruby Bailey and her family.

Staff

Senior FPC Bethlehem

SENIOR MINISTRY STAFF

ALF HALVORSON, Pastor/Head of Staff

JACK BRACE, Associate Pastor for Mission & Outreach

JACK FELCH, Dir. of Church Business Administration

GREG FUNFGELD, Dir. of Music,Traditional

BRENTLY GROSHONG, Dir. of Music, Contemporary

MANUELA KAUER, Associate Pastor for Congregational Life & Care

CODY SANDAHL, Associate Pastor for Discipleship

A friend asked me recently, “What kind of strategic work are you doing right now at First Presbyterian Bethlehem?” My answer was that we are doing alignment work. We have priorities and goals that have been developed; we have brought in staff and now new teams are forming and learning to perform; but the challenge is to get everyone (new and old) rowing in the same direction.

In a book called Church Unique, by Will Mancini, there is an image that makes good sense to me. The author writes,

“When you talk about alignment, I picture a huge metal ring in the center of the room. It has seven or eight ropes tied to it, the thick kind you use in a tug-of-war. Each rope has a powerful horse harnessed on the other end. Then someone sounds the gun, and the horses start pulling with thousands of pounds of force. The problem is that the ring goes nowhere. All of the horsepower dissipates because of the canceling effect of the horses misaligned across the ring. The sum effect of this picture is zero movement.”

The book points out that there are four stages of alignment, pictured below. Stage one is confusion. Here there is no alignment and each sub area is simply doing its own thing. Stage two is communication, where lay and staff leaders and ministry areas learn the value of sharing information and keeping dialogue open. Stage three is coordin-ation, where ministry areas sequence and leverage individual activities for collective gains; where hard conversations occur about programs, ministry emphases, and people resources; where some dead horses need to be buried; and where new ideas are tried and meshed with key ongoing areas. The final stage is collaboration. When that happens, the vision and values (the priorities and goals) actually drive the decision-making and ministry bus rather than personal agendas. Mancini summarizes, “together we can accomplish far more than anyone can individually. The win-wins don’t just happen; they are developed from commitment to diligent creativity and dialogue. If the church is generally successful and more than twenty years old, achieving collaboration can’t be done in less than three years.”

I think that we are mostly in the communication stage right now but beginning to put our feet in the water of the coordination stage, too. We are in the middle of a process that is exciting and maddening at the same time. I hope you are seeing greater and greater movement in more and more God-honoring ways. And I pray and trust that you will join us, with your God-given horsepower, so that we can make a collaborative Kingdom difference as “iron sharpens iron” (Prov. 27:17) in the Lehigh Valley and around the world.

In Christ’s Service Together,

Alf Halvorson, and our Senior Ministry Team

Confusion Communication Coordination Collaboration

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2010 Annual Report

I am continually amazed by the ways and places that members and partners of FPC Bethlehem are plugged into Christ’s mission in the world—both within the walls of our beautiful church and in the mission field outside our doors. On the pages that follow, you will read about some of the ways that we are invested, as we continue to deepen our connection to God, to each other, and to the world around us.

Our Session begins 2011 focusing on two priorities. The first is to study three issues that came out of the 219th General Assembly last summer that are currently before the denomination: recommendations for a change in our ordination standards, a change in our form of government (nFOG), and the recommendation to add the Belhar Confession to our Book of Confessions. After meeting with members of the

congregation, it was clear that there is a desire to hear from the Session on these important issues. Teams of elders have been meeting together to study these topics and we will share our work as it is completed.

The second priority is dis-cernment about where our church is moving in the next five, ten, twenty years. We clearly feel that God is placing emphasis for us on teaching and mission, and how these two priorities might work in tandem, rather than individually.We are looking at what it means to be a teaching church with a mission focus. You will hear more about this in the months ahead.

As we close out 2010, I want to extend an enormous thanks to each of our leaders who have

served in great and small ways in the past 12 months. I also want to thank our wonderful staff for the ways that they continue to be a blessing to our church and our community.

We look forward to the opportunities that this new decade will bring. We continue to strive toward our goals and set some new benchmarks. And we go into 2011 with hope and confidence in God’s purpose.

Serving that purpose together,

Jill SmedleyClerk of Session

RULING ELDERS

ROBERT ANDRESS

JAMES BIRDSALL

BETH BLOSS

LYNNETTE BURNS

JACKIE BYRNES

RAY DAVIS

GAIL FARNHAM

DEBBIE FIELD

BOB HUNSICKER

JACK JORDAN

JOANNE KELHART

JIM KOONTZ

JAN MARSH

JEFF MOHLER

BETSY MOWRER

JIM PARKER

DAVE POST

LARRY ROOD

ROBERT RUPEL

MARY ANN SKUTCHES

JILL SMEDLEY

KEN WYCHERLEY

TEACHING ELDERS

JACK BRACE,Associate Pastor

ALF HALVORSON,Pastor/Head of Staff

MANUELA KAUER,Associate Pastor

CODY SANDAHL,Associate Pastor

OUR THREE PRIORITIES AND THEIR GOALS

A DEEPENING CONNECTION WITH THE LIVING GOD:

Worship attendance grows to 1500

A DEEPENING INVESTMENT WITH ONE ANOTHER

Intentionally mentor 25 servant leaders in key areas

1200 people meaningfully connected in groups

A DEEPENING ENGAGEMENT WITH THE WORLD FOR WHOM CHRIST DIED

1,000 people engaged in a local, national, or international mission or service ministry

FPC Bethlehem

Committee Session Areas DISCIPLESHIP

Guiding Scripture: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disci-ples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have com-manded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18–20

Ministry Area Goal: To teach, equip, support and guide adult leaders to disciple all generations of our church family as they grow in their faith.

Elders: Larry Rood (Chair), Jim Parker, Bob Andress, Beth Bloss

WORSHIPGuiding Scripture: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and accept-able to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:1–2

Ministry Area Goal: To encourage each member of the congregation on their discipleship journey by providing worship opportunities that celebrate Jesus Christ and His gospel message in a variety of ways, promoting a worshipful lifestyle that deepens each member’s relationship with our Savior.

Elders: Jeff Mohler (Chair), Jill Smedley, Joanne Kelhart

CONGREGATIONAL LIFE AND CARE

Guiding Scripture: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” John 15:12

Ministry Area Goals: By participation and fellowship ... we will encourage, equip and empower God’s people to care for one another.

Elders: Bob Hunsicker (Chair), Mary Ann Skutches, Jackie Byrnes

MISSION AND OUTREACHGuiding Scripture: “For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.” 2 Corinthians 4:5

Ministry Area Goal: To be a servant-hearted ministry, centered in Christ, generous in giving, open to receiving, meeting spiritual and material needs across cultures and boundaries.

Elders: Betsy Mowrer (Chair), Ken Wycherley, Gail Farnham, Debra Field

PERSONNELGuiding Scripture: “Shepherd the flock that has been given into your care …” 1 Peter 5:2

Ministry Area Goal: To care for and encourage the ministry staff of First Presbyterian Church, and to manage the personnel resources, budgets and administrative issues of the church.

Elders: Dave Post (Chair), Jim Koontz

WHOLE LIFE STEWARDSHIPGuiding Scripture: “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in my house, and thus put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts; see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an overflowing blessing.” Malachi 3:10

Ministry Area Goal: To encourage the congregation in the stewardship of all of life, in generous and enthusiastic giving of time, talents and treasures, in service to Christ, His Kingdom and His work.

Elders: Lynnette Burns (Chair), Jim Birdsall (Chair, Budget Committee), Jack Jordan

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENTGuiding Scripture: “The gifts that he gave were that some would be apos-tles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of min-istry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ.” Ephesians 4:11–13

Ministry Area Goal: That all leadership positions are filled by people com-mitted to the mission and vision of First Presbyterian Church, with the ability and equipping to lead.

Elders: Jan Marsh (Chair), Beth Bloss, Ray Davis, Bob Rupel, Debra Field (Chair, Nominating Committee)

Enrich, empower, equip and enable God’s people to care for one another

THE MISSION & OUTREACH LEADERSHIP TEAM

GLEN ADELSBERGER

TERRY CLINE

GAIL FARNHAM,Elder

DEBRA FIELD, Elder

NANCY HAWKINS

JOEL JACOBSON

KAREN JONES

DIANE KULP

BETSY MOWRER, Chair

DON SPANGLER

LINDA STRAYER

KEN WYCHERLEY, Elder

STAFF SUPPORT

JACK BRACE,Associate Pastor

Outreach2010 has been a very exciting and stretching year for Mission & Outreach (M&O).

We explored new opportunities and strengthened current relationships. We also benefited from the leadership of a full-time staff person for the entire year, which made a huge impact.

An area of significant growth has been FPCB’s Local Outreach. A very active team came together to both focus our local efforts and develop a guide that introduces our local partners to the church.

Also significant on the local front was the Big Build, FPCB’s partnership with Habitat for Humanity to build a single-family home for Ruby Darden-Bailey and her family in South Side Bethlehem. Through generous donations of time (17,000 volunteer hours) and treasure (over $100,000 pledged), we accomplished this ambitious goal, and together with Ruby and her family, dedicated her house on December 11, 2010.

A staple of M&O is short-term mission. We were blessed this year to either lead or be a part of eleven of these experiences: five led by M&O (New York, West Virginia, East Asia, Camp Brainerd and Argentina); two led by Student Discipleship (Rockford, IL and Greenville, TN); and four in partnership with Lehigh Presbytery’s Helping Hands Care Team (Iowa, Tennessee and twice to Mississippi) In all, over 175 people had their lives transformed by these experiences because of the faithful support they received from our church family.

Over the past six years, FPCB has engaged in mission to Africa in both short- and long-term ways. One significant area of our involvement has been Quacha Birra, Ethiopia. Beginning on October 1, 2006, with the Walk for Water through which $19,000 was raised for clean water in Africa, this partnership culminated on July 30, 2010 with the 30 Hour Famine through which FPCB youth were able to help fulfill our pledge of $60,000 toward a primary school in Quacha Birra.

Through all of our outreach programs and partnerships we are learning that to be a part of God’s mission in the world is to answer “Yes” to his call to venture outside our comfort and safety. Where might God be calling you to go in 2011? Whether it’s your neighborhood, the South Side, across the country or around the world, our hope is that you would follow his lead.

Jack Brace,Pastor for Mission & Outreach

Betsy Mowrer,Chair, Mission & Outreach Leadership Team

THROUGH ALL OF OUR OUTREACH PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS WE ARE LEARNING THAT TO BE A PART OF GOD’S MISSION IN THE WORLD IS TO ANSWER “YES” TO HIS CALL TO VENTURE OUTSIDE OUR COMFORT AND SAFETY.

2010 Annual Report

FPC Bethlehem

Board

New Beginnings: the Deacons together with Presbyterian Women began a prayer experience, “Prayer Is,” which was set up in the Kirk Center to enable participants to pray in different ways at “stations” throughout the room. It was open for a week in the spring, and more than 300 people within and outside our congregation took advantage of this new opportunity.

BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY continues ministering to members who have lost a loved one by regular monthly contact during the first year of their loss. The reception committee became fully organized, and through teams who volunteer to serve quarterly, they have helped families with receptions after a funeral service. A December Service of Remembrance was also held.

COMMUNITY READINESS MINISTRY completed their assignment of posting signage throughout the church building.

HOSPITAL MINISTRY has 19 ministrants who regularly visit members in the local hospitals along with the pastors.

PHONE MINISTRY has 32 volunteers who contact church members over the age of 70 and new church members. This year a training was held for the volunteers.

STEPHEN MINISTRY has 39 active Stephen Ministers with 21 in caring relationships. A new group of 10 Stephen Ministers is being trained who will be commissioned in the spring.

SUPPORT MINISTRY is in the process of adding a new support group for divorce recovery starting in January called “Hope and Healing.” This is in addition to the other groups: Singles, 12-Step Overcomers, and Networking for Life (job resourcing).

PRAYER MINISTRY holds a monthly service of healing and wholeness, has a “prayer chain” for immediate needs and concerns, and through the quilting and knitting ministries, provides quilts and shawls for ill members or their loved ones.

FLOWER MINISTRY now has brochures in the pew racks to enable members to provide flowers for the sanctuary. Steps are being taken to recruit more volunteers to deliver flowers after the worship service.

HOME COMMUNION AND SHARE CARE MINISTRIES continue to minister to church and community members in meaningful and practical ways.

HEALTH MINISTRY has sponsored several workshops for the congregation as well as blood drives and monthly blood pressure screening.

Also under the Deacon’s umbrella are the MEMORIAL GARDEN MINISTRY whose volunteers have worked hard this year to make that space more attractive, and the MEALS MINISTRY with its 30 volunteers who have provided 60 meals to families and individuals who are experiencing a serious illness, hospitalization recuperation, or other crisis.

Norma Ferguson, Moderator, Board of Deacons

DEACON MINISTRY VISION: TO CARE FOR EACH OTHER WITHIN OUR FAITH COMMUNITY AND BEYOND AS CALLED BY CHRIST.

BOARD OF DEACONS

DAVID AFRICA

MARIE BOLTZ

JANE DERBENWICK

DENNIS DODDS

TERRENCE DOLAN

NORMA FERGUSON

JEAN FOUST

RICHARD GORTON

CAROLYN JOHNSON

SARAH MCINTYRE

DICK MCKENNA

JANET POPE

PAM SWANK

RACHEL TAYLOR

RUTH YOUNG

STAFF SUPPORT


CongregationalCLC IS A COMMUNITY OF INDIVID-UALS COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING AND EMPOWERING FIVE OF THE CHURCH’S KEY MINISTRIES: DEACONS, SENIOR ADULT MINISTRIES, HOSPITALITY, PASTORAL CARE AND CONNECTIONS.

In November we were fortunate in having newly-ordained elder Jackie Byrnes join our team. Our efforts during the past year are described below.

THE DEACONS have been represented at our monthly meetings by moderator Norma Ferguson. Bob Hunsicker in turn acts as liaison and attends deacon meetings.

SENIOR ADULT MINISTRIES are guided by Glenna Dunham. Our seniors are busy participating in JOY, Hi Neighbors, and Fall Faith Festival. Westminster and Kirkland Village also fall under their umbrella. Our seniors are actively building relationships across generations and boundaries. They are currently greeting and guiding our youth on Sunday mornings, and have been proactively engaged in serving the outside community as well as members of the church.

HOSPITALITY, under the leadership of Joan Glover, provides guidance and training for greeters for coffee hour fellowship and church-wide events like special receptions, the annual picnic and Thanksgiving dinner. We are dedicated to becoming a more welcoming church, to being that special place where people feel truly cared for. We plan to make good use of Becki Angione’s gifts in reaching this goal.

PASTORAL CARE continues to provide hospital and residential visitations. Perhaps more importantly, our team takes a wholistic approach in meeting the various needs of our church family. This ministry has been enriched by our parish nurses who have produced several excellent educational programs. The topic of Care for the Caregiver, which included presentations on Hospice, palliative/comfort care, and advance directives such as living wills were well received. Educational sessions on Alzheimer’s syndrome are in the planning stages.

THE CONNECTIONS TEAM, led by Kathy Chen, has been hard at work connecting the gifts and interests of new Inquirers with the abundance of opportunities for serving in and outside the church. They have worked tirelessly to create an effective database for matching talents and areas of expertise with ministry needs. The process appears to be working well. Ninety percent of our new members have been contacted by ministry leaders this year; a marked improvement.

Our committee ministers to one another with a meaningful koinonia time at our monthly meetings. We continue to seek new ways of caring for people both within and outside our church walls and are committed to becoming a more missional church.

Bob Hunsicker, Chair, Congregational Life and Care

Manuela Kauer, Pastor for Congregational Life and Care

CL&C TEAM

JACKIE BYRNES

KATHY CHEN

GLENNA DUNHAM

NORMA FERGUSON,Deacon

JOAN GLOVER

BECKY GORTON

BOB HUNSICKER,Elder, Chair

DIANE MCALOON

JACK WALKER

STAFF SUPPORT


2010 Annual Report

Children Youth Adults

THE VISION OF THE DISCIPLESHIP COMMITTEE IS TO HELP MORE CHILDREN, YOUTH AND ADULTS TO KNOW GOD, LOVE PEOPLE AND SERVE THE WORLD.

The Discipleship Team, under the guidance of Pastor Cody Sandahl and coordinators Priscilla Moreira, Jodi Wycherley and Bill Freeman and countless volunteers, continues to strive towards fulfilling the three priorities and six goals established by First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem.

THE DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRY SAW THE FOLLOWING TAKE PLACE IN 2010:

The K-Group Committee launched “Prodigal God”, a Psalms study, and a Christian basics curriculum to help strengthen and form small groups.

Adult discipleship opportunities included new studies for Men’s, Dad’s, Women’s and Marriage Ministries, Presbyterian Women and Moms Only groups with new members added to each group throughout the year as we work towards 1,200 meaningfully connected in groups.

November started our first Mentor Leader Training with 30 identified leaders participating.

Children’s Ministry is trying a new curriculum, “Living Inside Out,” with a large-group/small-group format. There has been a deliberate increase in involvement with New Bethany Ministries in Children’s Ministry, bringing outreach to our younger members.

Over 85 volunteers were involved in a successful 2010 Vacation Bible School.

Sunday school returned for the first worship hour for grades K-5 in January 2011.

Youth Ministry continues to offer YCX on Wednesdays to nearly a hundred children in grades 4–8 each week, with dozens of adults and high school students supporting the program.

Senior high students continue to enjoy Sunday Night Live fellowship, with leaders sharing their life verses and their favorite “red letters.”

High School Sunday AM changed to a large-group/small-group format with guys and girls in small groups together, and they added regular mission projects.

Mission trips for both middle school and high school students were held in summer, 2010, with high school students traveling to Rockville, IL to serve and middle school students serving in Nashville, TN. Opportunities abounded for students to move out of their familiar neighborhoods and serve God in those new places.

2010 saw the fulfillment of the goal to build a school in Ethiopia in conjunction with World Vision through the financial generosity and hard work of the High School Youth Program and support of First Presbyterian Church members.

The Discipleship Committee wants to thank the congregation of First Presbyterian Church Bethlehem for their tremendous support of programs such as Souper Bowl Sunday, Ethiopia fund-raising efforts, Youth Stock Sale and other events too numerous to list. Without your support of time, talent and financial generosity, this would not be possible.

Larry Rood, Chair, Discipleship Vision Team

FPC Bethlehem

DISCIPLESHIP COMMITTEE

BOB ANDRESS, Elder

ANDIE BARBEHENN

BETH BLOSS, Elder

RYAN HARTING

STACEY KINTER

JIM PARKER, Elder

LARRY ROOD, Chair

STAFF SUPPORT

CODY SANDAHL,Associate Pastor

2010 Annual Report

It’s been a busy year in the Children’s Center as we teach, nurture and love over 130 young children. Our ministry reaches beyond those children to their families, many of whom come from outside our church community.

Our goals are several: develop social and motor skills, provide a safe and loving place to play and explore, develop cognitive and communication skills and let each child know he or she is loved by us and God. We strive to live into our vision statement, along with the larger church, to Know God, Love People and Serve the World. Along with the developmentally appropriate learning, social and motor activities we do, we have regular times of learning about God’s love and what the Bible teaches us about God and Jesus.

SO, WHAT HAVE WE BEEN DOING THIS YEAR?

In February we held parent conferences to better help parents understand their children’s progress and determine their best placement for the next year.

We also had a teacher in-service in February where those that attended the annual conference last November shared what they learned.

March brought Easter and talk about “Jesus coming alive again.” Easter Chapel and our annual art show were well attended by parents and other relatives and friends.

In May we had a visit from a firefighter who brought his truck and let us spray the big hose! We also said goodbye to many of our 4-year-olds who were headed to kindergarten and then ended our classes for the summer.

June began summer extended care! Our summer program is an exciting time of weekly themes and many outside activities—even water play!

September came and we welcomed many new students and families and welcomed back returning children. This always comes with some tears—both from children and parents—but all adjust within a few weeks.

In November 3 staff members flew to Anaheim, CA, to attend the annual NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) conference. It’s a great way to network and get new, fresh ideas for our classes.

November also brought Thanksgiving where we talk about the many things we can thank God for. Thanksgiving Chapel was a time for children and families to bring food donations for New Bethany Ministries.

December brings Christmas and lots of excitement here! The story of Jesus’ birth is told over and over in many different ways as we wait for the Big Day! Christmas Chapel with parents and friends also brought the opportunity to bring donations of snacks and school supplies for Northeast Ministries. We encourage parents to shop with their children and talk about giving as they decide what to bring.

As always, the support of FPCB is a blessing to all of us as we love and minister to our children and families —and to one another as a staff.

Andrea Barbehenn,Preschool Director

Weekday Extended Care

WE STRIVE TO LIVE INTO OUR VISION STATEMENT, ALONG WITH THE LARGER CHURCH, TO KNOW GOD, LOVE PEOPLE AND SERVE THE WORLD.

FPC Bethlehem

The extraordinary, vibrant and exciting worship we experience here at FPC Bethlehem is a blessing. Tremendous preaching by our wonderful staff and outstanding music led by Greg and Brently offer wonderful opportunities each weekend to make joyful music and praise the Lord! Our “One Voice” approach to preaching continues to allow for a consistent message each service and has contributed to a growing attendance (about 4%). We truly praise the Lord for His hand in all this.

April marked our third annual Legacy Sunday, a weekend paying tribute to the rich tradition and history of our church along with many long-term members and leaders. Former FPC Bethlehem Pastor Rod Stone, now at Community Presbyterian in Pinehurst, NC, was our guest preacher at all services. He captured the essence of the theme with his sermon entitled “It’s About Time,”and captured the hearts of many by staying for the Four Score & More luncheon following the last service.

Our Contemporary Worship Team again led worship at Musikfest in downtown Bethlehem with Pastor Alf offering the message to 1,300 worshippers. Unlike last year, it was a morning of glorious weather, concluding with “Let God Arise,” featured on the Oasis Band’s new CD released in November. More than 120 singers participated in our Summer Choir, enriching our summertime worship.

The magic of December in the Christmas City increased this year with both the

contemporary and traditional venues hosting Christmas concerts featuring the the Oasis Band on Dec. 18 and the Chancel Choir and The Philadelphia Brass on Dec. 19. Christmas Eve welcomed many members and friends from around our community with five services and the gifts of our many choirs. In addition, our Sanctuary was the site of the Christmas concerts of The St. Luke’s Singers and The Bach Choir of Bethlehem, giving us the privilege of welcoming the community into our church.

We again salute and show appreciation for the nearly 600 worship support people for the giving of their time and talents enabling excellent services each week. A major initiative to replenish our various worship support crews will be rolled out in the spring as Whole Life Stewardship encourages each member to pledge their time and talents toward service at First Pres. We also thank each of our choirs and their directors, The Oasis Band and the Contemporary Worship Team, and guest musicians, The Philadelphia Brass and The Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble, all of whom enrich our worship experience throughout the year.

Now onto 2011—our committee has firmed up its succession plan, adding two new members and working longer-term on a new chair for 2012. A committee has been formed to evaluate our present hymnal, “Rejoice in the Lord,” and to consider options for the future, including a new hymnal being prepared by the Presbyterian Church. Information and costs are being gathered for screens in the Kirk Center Gallery, Sanctuary and church hallways. Finally, plans are in the works for at least one Celebration Service (a joint worship service) as we enter the second decade of the 21st century.

Jeff Mohler,Chair, Worship Committee

Committee

THE GOAL OF THE WORSHIP COMMITTEE IS TO HELP OUR CONGREGATION LIVE INTO OUR FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH VISION STATEMENT, “CALLED TO BE DISCIPLES; CALLED TO MAKE DISCIPLES,” THROUGH WORSHIP.

THE WORSHIP COMMITTEE

DAVID ESCOTT

STEVE FOLLETT

JOANNE KELHART, Elder

BETSY LAYLON

MEREDITH MCCAMBRIDGE

JEFF MOHLER, Elder and Chair

JILL SMEDLEY, Elder

PAM SWANK

TED WHITE

STAFF SUPPORT

GREG FUNFGELD,Dir. of Music/Traditional

BRENTLY GROSHONG,Dir. of Music/Contemporary

ALF HALVORSON,Pastor/Head of Staff

The Whole Life Stewardship (WLS) Committee encourages the use of our God-given time, talents and treasures in a manner that pleases and glorifies God and educates our congregation why it is important to do so—namely to build and strengthen our personal relationship with God (through trust, appreciation and gratitude) and to have the collective means to love His people and serve the world He created.

This was a very busy year for the WLS. The education subcommittee hosted a Crown Financial class and ran the First Fruits program to remind us to give our first and best to God while helping to fill the local food banks. The Financial Counseling Team is a subcommittee that provided free, professional financial counseling to 14 people.

The WLS coordinated witnesses, maintained a fund-raising calendar and held a money management class for children. We hosted the “Unwrap Your Gifts” Ministry Fair to help congregants learn how and where to connect their passions to godly service through conversation and the new ministry information booklet. The WLS also refurbished the Statement of Christian Financial Responsibility (SCFR) and led the fall Stewardship Campaign.

The SCFR that our church adopted first in 2003 was reworked to address specific concerns. It summarizes God’s Word on the responsible use of finances and clarifies our church’s position on the scriptures that relate to it. It was adopted anew by unanimous votes from all three church boards: Session, Trustees and Deacons, as a means of guidance for the maturing Christian.

The annual fall campaign maintained Heart of the Matter as the theme, but focused on 2 Corinthians 8:1–14 which reminds us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with each other and add unrestrained, joyful generosity to our expression of love for Christ.

The results of this year’s WLS campaign is as follows: Total dollars pledged

2011 Campaign $2,173,525 by 748 families

In 2011 the WLS will investigate online giving and develop a spring time/talent campaign similar to the fall treasure campaign. The WLS is also partnering with the deacons to examine the church roll and partnering with a broad, multi-ministry group informally called the Ad Hoc Volunteer Committee to continue exploring ways to make joining in God’s work an easier and more streamlined process.

Lynnette Burns, Elder and Chair,Whole Life Stewardship Committee

Whole Life

WLS COMMITTEE

RACHELLE ANDRESS

LINDA BARTHOLOMEW

JIM BIRDSALL, Elder

LYNNETTE BURNS, Elder and Chair

JOHN EDWARDS

JACK JORDAN,Elder

BARRY KESSLER, Trustee

DON MONGEON, Trustee

LINDA ROBERTSON

STAFF SUPPORT



SUE MINNICH,Financial Manager

JOE WORKMAN, Planned Giving Officer

2010 Annual Report

OUR MINISTRY GOALS: To encourage and provide care and support for the ministry staff; to provide for an orderly, focused and considerate means for the Session to build a healthy work environment; to provide support and guidelines in the management of human resources, budgets and the administrative issues of the church.

2010 ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

A complete revision and expansion of our Employee Handbook, approved by Session in December to be implemented beginning in January, 2011. This was a year-long project resulting in an important and serious document that will be the guide for our human resource administration. These guidelines “say what we do” and when implemented we will “do what we say,” which will enhance the integrity and credibility of our ministry.

Revised and reduced our medical insurance costs through a non-deductible policy.

Established a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for all eligible employees to alleviate individual out-of-pocket medical costs.

Developed and published a detailed, written sabbatical plan for ordained pastors.

Expanded the continuing education plan to include all employees classified as full- time and benefit-eligible.

Supported staff performance evaluations for all employees; this is the second annual occurrence. Future evaluations will be conducted annually.

Integrated the pre-school function into the overall church and personnel budget, resulting in enhanced management of costs and improved communications.

Completed the termination of an employee retirement plan with Principal Financial Group and transfer of the Vanguard retirement plan to the Presbyterian Board of Pensions managed by Fidelity Investments.

Provided summer intern support for the contemporary worship services.

Implemented a personnel budget that resulted in reduced overall personnel costs for the year.

Developed a budget for 2011 that includes an employee merit compensation program.

2011 initiatives include providing additional personnel support for the contemporary worship and for the discipleship area. We will also continue to support the employee evaluation process and overall supervision/management of the personnel budget.

Dave Post Chair, Personnel Committee

OUR GUIDING SCRIPTURE: “SHEPHERD THE FLOCK THAT HAS BEEN GIVEN UNTO YOUR CALL” (I PETER 5:2)

Committee

2010 PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

SUE CADY, Trustee

CAROLYN JOHNSON

DIANE KENNEDY

JIM KOONTZ, Elder

BETSY LAYLON,Secretary

DAVE POST, Elder, Chair

EVELYN STRAVINO, Trustee

LISA TITUS,Trustee

STAFF SUPPORT

JACK FELCH,Dir. of Church Business Administration


FPC Bethlehem

Board 2010 Annual Report

WE HAVE … OBTAINED APPROVAL TO ESTABLISH A PERMANENT REPLACEMENT FUND ESTABLISHED FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPLACING HIGH DOLLAR FACILITY COSTS.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

CLEMENT BONNELL

SHANNON CAWLEY

JIM DISARIO

BARRY KESSLER

JIM LARGAY

GEOFF MARSAC

JIM MAUTZ

DON MENGEL, President

DON MONGEON

EVELYN STRAVINO

LISA TITUS

STAFF SUPPORT

BECKI ANGIONE,Facilities Manager


SUE MINNICH,Financial Manager

The Trustees continue to face the challenges inherent to the age of our beautiful building. We also strive to be good stewards of the funds entrusted to us.

We persevere with our efforts to control and minimize damage from our constant battle with sinkholes on our property. Our location is inherent to them, and we are addressing the scope and solution to this problem. The Bethlehem Fire Department completed an extensive fire inspection of our facility, and as a result, we were required to tackle numerous violations. The good news is that they are now resolved and we are compliant. A major undertaking in 2010 was the upgrade and renovation of the youth’s step room. Other significant items completed this year were the replacement of the front portico and north link roofs, repair of the bell tower roof, a new outside children’s play storage building and the replacement of exit doors in the Kirk Center. Many safety enhancements were made including the completion of the parking lot lighting project, wiring in the Kirk Center and modification of the exits in the kitchen area. A 12-passenger van was purchased to conform to higher safety standards and a Van Management Program was established to better control the use and

maintenance of the van. We have also been successful through Facilities Man-ager Becki Angione in reducing our utility costs through the use of more efficient equipment and her negotia-tions of the terms with both the electric and gas suppliers.

We are moving forward with the implementation of a fire and security system. The installation has begun and, when completed, we will have a facility that will provide greater safety to everyone as well as better response capabilities in an emergency. We have also obtained approval to establish a Permanent Replacement Fund established for the purpose of replacing high-dollar facility costs. Each year we will place designated amounts in this reserve account for the replacement of specific big-ticket items.

The volunteer effort at First Presbyterian Bethlehem is second to none. Without the efforts of Church Works and the Memorial Garden Team pledging countless hours of work around our church, we would not be able to maintain our beautiful building and grounds.

Finally, as we close the books on 2010, the Trustees want to thank you for your past and future support as we watch over our magnificent facility.

Don Mengel, President, Board of Trustees

The Fund Committee has the responsibility of administering the Bethlehem First Presbyterian Fund (BFPF), a collection of individual funds that provides capital and/or income for a variety of church-related projects. BFPF funds are divided into two major groups: “Permanent,” where only the income may be spent, and “Non-Permanent,” where both the principal and income may be spent. Within each of these major groups, individual funds are divided into four categories: General, Ministry and Mission, Facilities and Property, and Restricted.

Applications for money from any of the funds in the BFPF are submitted by church staff members or committees to the Fund Committee. When Fund Committee members have completed their evaluation of an application, their recommendation is forwarded to the Session.

Through November 2010, the committee recommended approval of grants totaling $106,875 for a variety of projects including ministry and mission in the Lehigh Valley, church equipment purchases, grants to alleviate human needs within the community, grants to church members pursuing a career in Christian service, support for mission trip participants, church communications improvements and in-church social and educational programs. Session approved or deferred all of the Fund Committee’s recommendations, but not all of the approved grant money was spent. Significantly, a start-up grant of $30,000 for the Big Build (an FPCB/Habitat for Humanity house in South Bethlehem) was returned to the BFPF as the result of a successful congregational appeal.

Gifts and bequests in 2010 totaled $145,705.

Two “named” funds were added to the BFPF in 2010: The Andrew L. Better and I. Clarice Better Memorial Fund, a permanent general fund unrestricted as to use, and The Reverend Lloyd John Ogilvie Guest Preacher Fund, a non-permanent restricted fund to be used to pay guest preachers for preaching at FPC worship services as well as teaching at church educational events. Contributions may be directed to any of the named or generic funds that comprise the BFPF. A list containing all of the funds in the BFPF is available in the church office in mailbox #2.

At the end of 2010, the aggregate value of the BFPF funds was as follows:

Principal..............................................................................$2,126,761 Income..................................................................................$224,607

David Boltz, Chair, Fund Committee

Committee

FUND COMMITTEE

DAVID BOLTZ

LISA DIPPRE-TITUS

BARRY KESSLER, Trustee

JIM MAUTZ, Trustee

DAVID POST, Elder

BOB RUPEL

STAFF SUPPORT



SUE MINNICH, Financial Manager

JOE WORKMAN,Planned Giving Officer

FPC Bethlehem

2010 Annual Report

PLANNED GIVING COMMITTEE

DAVE BOLTZ

DUANE DUNHAM

ROB LITTNER

DON MENGEL,Trustee

DAVE POST, Elder

LINDA ROBERTSON

LISA TITUS, Chair

STAFF SUPPORT


JOE WORKMAN, Planned Giving Officer

The Investment Committee was established in 2008 to manage the church’s investments. These are primarily the assets represented by the fund balances in the components of the Bethlehem First Presbyterian Fund (BFPF). Our investments are largely in low-cost broadly diversified index funds with about 53% in equities, 45% in fixed income and 2% in short-term money market funds. This allocation allows for both long-term growth and sufficient short-term liquidity to support current expenditures from the BFPF. As of October 31, 2010, the market value of the investment portfolio was $2,287,583, up from $2,114,007 on January 1. Thus during the first ten months of 2010 the portfolio returned about 8.2%, including dividends, and has fully recovered from the severe market declines that began in October 2008. We gratefully acknowledge the advice and counsel of John Shupe, who served on the Committee for over two years.

INVESTMENT COMMITTEE

PAUL BARBEHENN

GERRY GILLISPIE

JIM LARGAY, Chair

BOB RUPEL,July–present

JOHN SHUPE,(January–June)

Committee

Planned

In 2010 seven church members informed the committee of having provided for First Presbyterian Bethlehem in their estate plans. Their generous commitments expanded our roster of Heritage Partners, those who have made commitments from their estates, to 144.

Planned gifts received in 2010 from our members who have joined the Church Triumphant totaled $120,424. In addition, several committee members worked to secure additional current gifts of $110,000 to help build a new Habitat for Humanity house in south Bethlehem.

On May 16 we celebrated Heritage Partner Sunday, with Pastor Alf preaching from Psalm 145 and heard a witness speak about including our church in that witness’s will. We also handed out a new, full-color, four-sided brochure featuring testimonies from members who have remembered FPC in their estate planning, as well as a listing of Heritage Partners.

On September 19, our Heritage Partner reception was a joyous occasion to thank them for their financial commitment to the future of our church.

The Picture

First Presbyterian Church mission and ministry is financed by the generosity of saints past and present. To see the full picture we look past the General Budget and consider three other categories. Temporarily restricted funds have very specialized purposes, such as the operations of our preschool (in 2010), special offerings, our 2010 Big Build with Habitat for Humanity and mission trips. Operating reserves are held for designated purposes, such as Kirk Camp and Fall Faith Festival. The Bethlehem First Presbyterian Fund holds the principal and income of endowments and other gifts. The charts below show how each category finances our missions, programs, staffing, and operational support functions. You are welcome to contact our Director of Church Business Administration, Dr. Jack Felch, for further information.

General Budget Temporarily Restricted Funds Operating Reserve Accounts Bethlehem First Presbyterian Fund

$15,592 $76,755

$0

Dollars 2010

Description Mission Programs Staffing Operations Totals

General Budget $ 356,116 $ 69,578 $ 1,391,428 $ 731,036 $ 2,548,158

Temporarily Restricted Funds $ 186,946 $ 50,302 $ 237,075 $ — $ 474,323

Operating Reserve Accounts $ — $ 51,114 $ 47,972 $ 15,592 $ 114,678

Bethlehem First Presbyterian Fund $ 37,002 $ 30,006 $ — $ 76,755 $ 143,763

Combined Totals $ 580,064 $ 201,000 $ 1,676,475 $ 823,383 $ 3,280,922

FPC Bethlehem

2010 Annual Report

Permanent Sub-Fund Permanent General Fund $ 401,086 Ministry & Mission Component 202,246 Facilities & Property Component 9,372 Restricted Component 1,357,395 Total Permanent Sub-Fund 1,970,099 Non-Permanent Sub-Fund Non-Permanent General Fund 19,323 Ministry & Mission Component 168,688 Facilities & Property Component 3,278 Restricted Component 189,980 Total Non-Permanent Sub-Fund 381,269 Total Bethlehem First Presbyterian Fund $2,351,368

Bethlehem First Presbyterian Fund—Summary December 31, 2010

Subject to completion of independent audit

12/31/2010 12/31/2009 ASSETS CASH $ 854,968 $ 838,137 INVESTMENTS 2,287,118 2,114,007 OTHER ASSETS 97,870 142,492 PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT (net) Kirk & Children's Center 4,010,077 4,170,133 Land, Building & Equipment 1,287,997 1,137,991

TOTAL ASSETS $8,538,030 $ 8,402,760 LIABILITIES CURRENT LIABILITIES Payroll Withholdings $ 0 $ 499 Deposits 640 2,124 Mortgage Payable 64,572 64,572 LONG-TERM LIABILITIES Mortgage Payable 894,732 1,041,148 NET ASSETS Unrestricted 7,346,496 6,946,151 Temporarily restricted 231,590 348,266

TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS $8,538,030 $8,402,760

Statement of Assets, Liabilities, Net Assets December 31, 2010

Subject to completion of independent audit—in progress

FPC Bethlehem

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For Church Officers, Class of 2014ELDER NOMINATED TO SERVE A SECOND TERM

KEN WYCHERLEY Ken has been a member for 17 years

and an attendee for almost 30 years. He has volunteered his time as a Sunday school teacher, a small group leader, a Youth Inquirer’s mentor, usher, com-munion server and a member of a K-Group. Ken has also been active in Men’s Ministry, Nominating Ministry, YCX. He has participated in mission trips

and in serving on the Discipleship Vision Team. He is married to Jodi and has three children: Alison, Ryan,

and Colin. In his free time, Ken helps with the Cub Scouts. He also enjoys family time, travel, skiing and golf.

ELDERS NOMINATED TO SERVE A FIRST TERMSUSAN BOEHRET

Sue has been a member of our church for 33 years. She and her husband, Bob, reside in Allentown and have two children. She has served our church in many capacities by being a youth group leader, a Sunday school teacher and coordinator, a co-coordinator of the Giving Tree and Memorial Garden and has sung in the

Chancel Choir. She has participated in the PW Bible studies and in the Hospitality Ministry.

Sue likes to read and travel.

MARY JANE DIENERMary Jane has been a member of

our church for 13 years. Since joining FPC Bethlehem, Mary Jane has been involved in the Discipleship Ministry, Stephen’s Ministry and served as part of the Women’s Ministry Leadership Team.

Mary Jane has been a clinical research coordinator at Easton Hospital for over 26 years. She enjoys traveling,

gardening and reading.

STEVE FOLLETTSteve has been a member of FPC

Bethlehem for almost 23 years. He and his wife, Jeanne, have two daughters. He has led a very active life in various ministries of our church. He served as a trustee for two terms and as a member of the Budget Committee. He was a member of the Pastor Nominating

(STEVE FOLLETT continued) Committee for both Ruthie and John Seiders, and Alf Halvorson and has been a Sunday school teacher for over ten years.

Community activities include serving as board member for New Bethany Ministries and Lehigh Valley Partnership. He has also been a part of the Christian Men’s Group.

Steve enjoys running, playing tennis and golf, reading and especially family time.

BILL GRUENEWALDBill has been a member of our

church his entire life and has three children with his wife of 32 years. Over the years, Bill has been a part of Men’s Ministry, the Networking for Life Ministry and is an active member of the Chancel Choir. He has been a middle school Sunday school teacher and a Volunteer Days participant.

In the community, Bill has been a Little League coach for many years as well as serving as a former league VP and is presently a board member. During the holiday season he helps wrap gifts for Camelot at the mall.

Bill enjoys spending time with his wife, Alicia, walking and visiting places. He also enjoys golf and watching baseball.

GWENN NOELGwenn has been an active member

of our church for five years. She and her husband, Roger, have two children. She is the Sunday school coordinator for Children’s Ministry and is on the cooking team for YCX. She has also been involved at Camp Brainerd and Kirk Camp.

Community activities include soccer coach for BTAA, mentor for First Strides at BTCC, member of the BTCC Tri-Movin’ Triathlon Club and is a former assistant den leader for Cub Scouts.

Gwenn is training for her first marathon. She enjoys swimming, biking, running, triathlons, reading, music and marching band. She also enjoys going to Iron Pigs baseball games and walking on the towpath with her family.

WARREN S. WAITEWarren and his wife, Susan, have

been members of FPC Bethlehem for three years. Warren is a K-Group member and has participated in Serve Day, summer choir and JOY activities. He takes part in the Marriage Ministry,

(continued on page 20)

Meet the2010 Annual Report

(WARREN WAITE continued from page 19)Men’s Ministry and is a member of the Inquirers Team. He is a past member of the Nominating Committee.

Warren enjoys spending time with family and friends, music, travel, history and NCAA basketball.

DEACON CLASS OF 2012 YVONNE SEGREAVES (picture and bio not available)

(Yvonne replaces Janet Pope who has resigned from the Board of Deacons and leaves one year of a three-year-term unfilled.)

DEACON NOMINATED TO SERVE A SECOND TERMJANE DERBENWICK

Jane has been a member of our church for 37 years. She and her husband have three grown children. Besides serving as a deacon, she works with Inquirers groups and in leadership as well as serving as an usher for Sunday morning services. She also participates in Women’s Bible studies and in the Women’s Association. She

has been a Sunday school teacher for fifth and sixth graders and served as a high school mentor.

In the community, she ushers regularly for Zoellner Arts Center programs and ushers occasionally for the Pennsylvania Sinfonia Orchestra and Camerata Singers.

Jane works at Lehigh University and likes walking around campus in her free time. She also enjoys walking her dog, baking cookies with her grandchildren, listening to classical music, reading, eating out with friends and viewing art.

DEACONS NOMINATED TO SERVE A FIRST TERMJEANETTE CLAESSENS

Jeanette has been a member of FPC Bethlehem since 1989. She and her husband, Mat, have two children. Jeanette has been active in our church, helping with YCX and SNL, as well as serving as a Sunday school teacher. She is a Stephen Minister, has gone on mission trips with Lehigh Presbytery, and participated in Serve Day.

Jeanette enjoys yoga and aerobics, walking, zumba, reading, traveling, camping and gardening.

BOBBI EDWARDSBobbi has been a member of our

church for ten years. She has two married sons and two grandchildren. Bobbi is involved in short-term mission, Women’s Ministry and Bible studies and in K-Group. She serves as an usher, greeter, and communion preparer and server. She is involved with the Service of Remembrance and the Service for

Healing and Wholeness.

(BOBBI EDWARDS continued)Bobbi enjoys the outdoors—nature walks, hiking, biking,

tennis—as well as gardening, reading and traveling.

SUSAN PADEN Susan has been a member of our

church since 1967 and has been in-volved in many activities. She has par-ticipated in choir and youth group and served as a Sunday school teacher. She has experience with mission work—both local and abroad—and provides dinner once a month at Victory House. Most recently she has worked with Inquirers

and served as a youth group leader.Community activities include youth sports, Bethlehem

Raiders, Bethlehem Steelers, the Booster club for the Liberty High School girl’s soccer and field hockey programs. She supports Sister Virginia at Steven’s Place and provides fellowship and meals at Victory House.

For fun, Sue loves to scrapbook. She likes crafting and sports, and she and her husband travel in their RV regularly to watch their daughter’s field hockey games and NCAA and Big Ten tournaments.

TIMOTHY STRAYERTim has been a member of FPC

Bethlehem for 27 years. He and his wife, Linda, have two children and three granddaughters. Tim has served in senior high Sunday school, Men’s Ministry and has been a K-Group leader. In the community, he is the board chairperson of Youth for Christ, Lehigh Valley.

Tim enjoys golf, tennis and snow skiing.

TRUSTEES NOMINATED TO SERVE A SECOND TERMBARRY KESSLER

Barry has been a member since 2003. He is an usher captain and communion coordinator and server for contemporary worship and is the Church Works Ministry coordinator. Barry also is involved in Inquirer’s Min-istry planning, small-group leadership, Vacation Bible School, and was part of the parlor renovation committee. He

also served as a member of the 2006 Nominating Commit-tee. In his personal life, Barry is single (divorced) with a son, Gary, here in Bethlehem, and Greg, in California; he has two grandchildren.

He enjoys tennis, kayaking and traveling, and volunteers his time in the St. Luke’s emergency room and at Hospice House. Professionally he is the President of Kessler Chemical Inc.

FPC Bethlehem

JAMES LARGAY IIIJim has been a member of our church

for 29 years. He and his wife reside in Coopersburg, and they have three chil-dren and three grandchildren. Besides serving as a trustee, Jim has been active in Men’s Ministry, Sunday school, and he regularly ushers at the morning worship services.

Jim is a professor of accounting at Lehigh University. He enjoys traveling, reading and spending time in Ocean City, New Jersey.

TRUSTEES NOMINATED TO SERVE A FIRST TERMVICKIE CLARK

Vickie has been a member of FPC Bethlehem since 1982. She and her husband, Bill, have three children in college. Vickie has been involved in Children’s Ministry, Women’s Bible Stud-ies and YCX. She has been the pictorial directory chair three times.

In the community, Vickie is a past PTD president, secretary and treasurer; a for-

mer FHS band student accounts chair; former Cub Scout den mother and former FHS swim team fundraising chair.

Vickie enjoys exercise, power walking, reading, watching swim meets, attending concerts and being outdoors. She especially enjoys her family.

ROBERT V. LITTNERRob has been a member of our church

for over 30 years. He has two teenage children. At FPC Bethlehem he has served on the Planned Giving Committee and provided legal counsel on a number of occasions, drawing from his experience as an attorney. As a youth member, he was involved in scouts, youth club and choir.

In the community, Rob is a member of the Rotary Club of Bethlehem. He serves as board member and treasurer for North Penn Legal Services and as board member for the Estate Planning Council of Lehigh Valley.

Rob enjoys golf, bowling and travel.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE-AT-LARGE FOR 2011PHILLIP J. CLAUSER

Phil has been a member of FPC Bethlehem for 37 years. He has two adult children. He has previously served as a Deacon, high school youth leader and Sunday School teacher. He is a regular usher for the morning worship services, serves communion in the contemporary services and performs communion cleanup for the traditional services. He also serves in Stephen Ministry.

Phil enjoys working out, reading, watching movies, visiting art museums and helping others.

MARIE EVANSMarie has been a member of our congregation for 27

years. She has two children and five grandchildren. Marie serves in the Phone Ministry and on the communion cleanup team. She is a Stephen Minister and volunteers as a recep-tionist in the church office every Thursday. She is past co-leader of the usher teams.

Marie likes to garden, mostly shrubs and flowers, and also does some knitting.

KIMBERLY LEWISKim has been a member of our church for 15 years. She

has two daughters. Kim is involved in Sunday School and Vacation Bible School as an assistant teacher. She has been a member of the Chancel Choir for twelve years and, for the past two years, she has served on the short-term mission trip to Camp Brainerd. She participated in Serve Day 2010.

Kim enjoys skiing, fishing, camping, and spending time with family and friends.

DIANE OWENDiane has been a member of our congregation for seven

years. She has been active as a choir member and has served on the Small Group Leadership Committee. She has also been a member of Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) for six years. Diane served on the 2010 Nominating Committee as a member at large.

Diane is a professional designer and fabricator of window treatments. She and her husband, Jim, a commercial pilot, love the adventures of flying and travel. She is also an avid bird watcher.

ARLENE SHELLY Arlene has been a member of FPC Bethlehem for 26 years. She is active in the church community, serving as a Home Communion server, Hospital Ministrant and usher for morning worship services. She has been a Sunday school teacher, a facilitator for Women’s Bible Studies and is a member of Presbyterian Women. She serves on the Be-reavement Committee, FFF Committee, and is a K-Group member and Prayer Chain participant. In the community, Arlene serves on an FPC team for the New Bethany Meals Center and participates in Meals on Wheels. She loves to travel and watch PSU football. Water aerobics at the Y is a daily activity and she enjoys reading, music events and spending time with family and friends.

WILL SMILES Will and his wife, Jayne, have been a part of the FPC Bethlehem family since 1975. He is a past deacon and elder, having served as chair of the Facilities Expansion Task Force, chair of the Pastor Nominating Committee and is a past chair of the Nominating Committee. He has also served a Presbytery Commissioner. In the community, Will is a member of the United Way Allocation Committee. He enjoys golf, history and Lafayette College basketball.

(continued on page 22)

2010 Annual Report

CHAIR: Debra Field, ElderVICE CHAIR: Beth Bloss, Elder PAST CHAIR: Ray DavisDEACON REPRESENTATIVE: Marie BoltzTRUSTEE REPRESENTATIVE: Clem BonnellP.W. REPRESENTATIVE: Adele EricksonMEMBERS-AT-LARGE:Ryan HartingMark LangLucille MarshallGinny MurphyDiane OwenAnita Shannahan Peter YoungAlf Halvorson was ex-officio.

(continued from page 21ANN TERRES Ann and her husband, Jack, have been members of the FPC congregation for over 40 years and have one daughter, Jackie, and three grandsons. Ann has served on numerous committees and in many activities. Ann is a past elder and became the first female Clerk of Session at FPC. Committee work includes the Budget Committee, Personnel Committee, Local Mission and Outreach Committee and the Senior Pastor Search Committee. She has been Elder commissioner to Lehigh Presbytery and served as Vice-Moderator and Moderator along with Presbytery committee work. She has been a member of the Chancel Choir for 42 years. Community activities have included the University of Delaware Alumni Band and chairing the organization of the first Freedom HS Alumni Band, Northeast Ministries, and the Housing Opportunity Association. She currently serves as Chair of the PA-Southeast Regional Aging Advisory Council and is a member of the PA Council on Aging in Harrisburg. Ann and her husband enjoy their retirement with many visits with their grandsons in VA as well as traveling in many countries. She enjoys creating HD movies of her travels and her advocacy role in the state for the aging population.

AFTER GATHERING OVER 100 NOMINATIONS FROM THE OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE CONGREGATION, THE FOLLOWING SLATE OF MEMBERS IS BEING PRESENTED TO THE CONGREGATION FOR NOMINATION IN 2011:

CHAIR: Beth BlossVICE CHAIR: To be named, ElderDEACON REPRESENTATIVE: Marie BoltzTRUSTEE REPRESENTATIVE: Clem BonnellP.W. REPRESENTATIVE: To be namedMEMBERS-AT-LARGE:Phil ClauserMarie EvansKim LewisDiane OwenArlene ShellyWill SmilesAnn Terres

Committee

2010

FPC Bethlehem

2010 Annual Report

2010

12/31/2009 2554Affiliate members 112/31/2010 2625

ACTIVE ROLL

ADDITIONS

Profession of Faith 66Letter of Transfer 18Reaffirmation 7Baptism 2Restoration 22Total Additions 115

DELETIONS

Death 26Transfers 7By requests 5Total deletions 38

INACTIVE ROLLS

12/31/2009 1038Moved to inactive 612/31/2010 1022

*Members who have been moved to inactive status during 2010 are counted as a loss to the active membership count of 2010.

Inactive members who have died, transferred or requested to leave our membership are not counted under “deletions” since they are losses to the inactive membership count, not the active membership count.

*

SPECIAL THANKS TO: our office staff, for all the work they did to prepare for this meeting our facilities team for the additional set-up and tear-down that was required for the luncheon event Our high school students and their leaders for the wonderful luncheaon.

Welcome, Opening Prayer ...............................................................……. Rev. Jack Brace ..…..11:30 a.m. Luncheon and Table Fellowship

Continuing the Meeting in the Sanctuary ……………………………………… Rev. Alf Halvorson …12:20 p.m. Appointment of Secretary Declaration of Quorum

Celebrating Our Leaders Recognition of Elders, Deacons and Trustee Leadership in 2010 .... Rev. Alf Halvorson Report of the Nominating Committee .........................................….….. Debbie Field Election of Elders, Deacons, Trustees, Nominating Committee Lifting Our Leaders in Prayer ...........................................….….. Rev. Manuela Kauer

Necrology Report ............................................................................... Rev. Alf Halvorson

Hymn “For All the Saints” ……………………………………………………… Greg Funfgeld

Budget Report ..................................................................................... Elder Jim Birdsall

Affirming Pastoral Terms of Call ............................….… Elders Jill Smedley and Dave Post

Directions in Discipleship .................................................….………… Rev. Cody Sandahl

Words from Our Pastor as We Look Forward .. ..................................... Rev. Alf Halvorson

Adjournment with Prayer ..................................................................... Rev. Alf Halvorson ......... 1:45 p.m.

THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION AND CORPORATIONFIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF BETHLEHEM

FELLOWSHIP HALL AND THE SANCTUARYJANUARY 30, 2011

“…CALLED TO BE DISCIPLES; CALLED TO MAKE DISCIPLES…”First Presbyterian Church is a community following Jesus Christ and serving in

creative worship, intentional discipleship, compassionate care and active outreach to the world.

2344 Center Street, Bethlehem PA 18017 | Tel: 610.867.5865 | www.fpc-bethlehem.orgF I R S T P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H O F B E T H L E H E M

2010 FPC Annual Report

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Transcript of 2010 FPC Annual Report