A MAGAZINE ABOUT THE MINISTRIES OF EASTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN … · 2020-02-26 · rea rmation of...

EASTMINSTER TODAY Page

A MAGAZINE ABOUT THE MINISTRIES OF EASTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH June/July 2019

Inside THIS ISSUE:

Looking back: welcome new members the core retreat RECAP

youth highlight: Julia Rayfield

Looking forward: this summer at epc & far away rev. lynn grandsire's sabbatical plans

Summer Is Here!

EPCTodayJUNE_JULY_2019 052419.indd 1 5/24/2019 2:19:15 PM


CONTENTS

features:

2

our

leadership

PASTORAL STAFF: DR. BRADLEY D. SMITHSenior Pastor

DR. MARK E. DURRETTAssociate Pastor - Adult Ed; Missions, Service & Benevolence (MSB)

REV. LYNN A. GRANDSIREAssociate Pastor - Presby Women; Congregational Care & Concern REV. BRIAN J. MARSH Associate Pastor - Young Adults; Evangelism & Membership DR. CAROL J. BYRD Interim Parish Associate - Pastoral Care; Worship

EASTMINSTER DAY SCHOOL (eds) STAFF: MS. JENNY YOUNG Director of EDS MRS. LUCY CORLEY Assistant Director

christian life center (clc) staff:

MR. REE HART MRS. LISA DYE Director of CLC Manager of CLC

Special thanks to Henry Price, Caroline Bennett & Kelly Fernet for editorial assistance, and to Tom Haggard, Karen Hudgens, Chris Lawson, Laura Long, Croskeys Royall, Hannah Winstead & many, many parents for ongoing photography assistance. © EPC Communications 2019

mission Statement: Eastminster Today magazine is published periodically to highlight the ministries, events, members, staff, blessings and Christian testimonials that document and contribute to the life of Eastminster Presby-terian Church. It is the intent of the Com-munications Committee that this publication be well-rounded and informative in ministry scope, intergenerational in stories featured and a consistent vehicle for sharing good news! For more information about Eastminster publications, please contact Blythe Lewis, Dir. of Communications, at [email protected] or 256-1654 ext. 165.

spotlight: Congratulations on 4 Generations, DYE Family!

june july 2019

This Just In!

New Members p.4 CORE:RECAP MIND+BODY+SOUL p.6 MILESTONES:ConfirmationBaccalaureatep.10 Summer Missions p. 11 Staff Anniversariesp.15

Rev. Lynn Grandsire Sabbatical PlansResearch & Renewal p.13

PNC’sp.15 SERVICE: What’s New? Small Groups p.16 Julia Rayfield: Artist, Athlete, Christian & Scholarp.18



WelcomeDear Eastminster Family,

As you peruse these pages, I encourage you to think about ways God pro-vides teachable moments and touchstone events in your life. What have been times, occasions or events where transformation has occurred; where you’ve gone from thinking “about” God to experiencing the living presence of God?

By God’s grace, we are blessed to share many teachable moments and touchstone events as a church family. In this edition of Eastminter Today, you’ll see examples such as young people professing faith through Confirmation, new members joining this part of Christ’s body, mission trips, high school graduation, and the celebrating of faithful service. As contemporary culture struggles to build and foster community, I am increasingly amazed and grateful for the ways I see people benefiting from the community that happens as we walk through life together as brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ. Oh, to be sure, we each have our quirks and idiosyncracies, but by the power of God’s Spirit, we sense the Holy in our midst.

Be sure to read about high school Senior Julia Rayfield and her stewardship of her special gifts of seeing and capturing life through art. If you see Sara Lynn Curtis or Angie Durrett, thank them for their faithful service to Christ, and congratulate them on being recognized by the Presbyteri-an Women. And take a moment to read about Rev. Lynn Grandsire’s Sabbatical. Lynn’s diligent service as Associate Pastor for Congregational Care these past 7 1/2 years has modeled caring and community. I encourage you to pray for her as she experiences a time of sabbath rest and renewal, doing some traveling and working on her Doctorate of Ministry degree.

Finally, join us for worship! Our summer schedule with Sunday School at 9:00 a.m., Jubilee wor-ship at 10:00 a.m. and Sanctuary worship at 10:15 a.m. will continue through August 11. Come if you are in town and join us via livestream (www.eastminsterpres.org) when you are away.

Grace and Peace,

3


EASTMINSTER TODAY

Welcome Newest Members Join Date: March 31, 2019

Hunter and Kate Iseman join, he by reaffirmation of faith and she bytransfer of letter from Shandon Pres-byterian. They live on TombeeLane with their two sons, Hunt and Hampton. Hunter and Kate work insales; Hunter at Covetrusand Kate at Segra.

Usher Laffitte joins byreaffirmation of faith. He lives on Woodrow Street and works as a financial analyst for First Palmetto Bank. He joins familymembers Elizabeth Hutton and Libby Laffitte in mem-bership here. Jessie Waller (fiancé) joins by reaffirmation of faith. She lives on Bratton Street and is an attorney at Gallivan, White & Boyd.

George and MichelleKennedy join by trans-fer of letter from West-minster PresbyterianChurch in Greenville, SC. They live on Main Street and both work for the State of South Carolina. George is a state auditor and Michelle works for the Retirement Systems In-vestment Commission.

Don and Trish Mothenajoin by reaffirmation offaith. They live on Oak-man Court and are bothretired. They join theirdaughter-in-law, LaurenShuler Mothena, in mem-bership here.

Terry Brown joins byreaffirmation of faith. He lives on Fairway Lane and is retired from the U.S. Army. Terry joins his wife, Gay, in membership here.

Catherine Evans joinsby transfer of letter from Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Colum-bia, SC. She lives on Rockwood Roadwith her children, Grayson and Matthew. Catherine works as a Counselor at Hamilton Ward Counseling & Consulting, LLC.

Edward and Tara Frazier join by transfer of letter from James Island Presbyterian in Charles-ton, SC. They live on Shady Lane with their daughters, Scarlett and Lily Blair. Edward works for the Office of the StateTreasurer, and Tara is astay-at-home mom.

Clay & Stefanie Hammond join, he by transfer of letter from Redeemer Lutheran Church in Greer, SC, and she by reaffirmation of faith. They live on Coatsdale Road.Clay is an account manager at Constantia Flexiblesand Stefanie works forBag Appraisals, LLC.


EASTMINSTER TODAY

Welcome Newest Members Join Date: March 31, 2019

Don and Trish Mothenajoin by reaffirmation offaith. They live on Oak-man Court and are bothretired. They join theirdaughter-in-law, LaurenShuler Mothena, in mem-

Clay & Stefanie Hammond join, he by transfer of letter from Redeemer Lutheran Church in Greer, SC, and she by reaffirmation of faith. They live on Coatsdale Road.Clay is an account manager

Austin and MeredithRhodes join by transferof letter, he from CalvaryBaptist Church in Pine-wood, SC and she fromFirst Presbyterian Churchin Gastonia, NC. They live on Stratford Road with their daughter Rollins. Austin works for Rhodes Graduation Services and Meredith works for The Pedowitz Group. They join his brother, Thomas Rhodes and family inmembership here.

Dustin and Sarah Scottjoin, he by reaffirmationof faith and she by trans-fer of letter from FirstPresbyterian Church inAiken, SC. They live onWaller Street. Dustinworks as a CPA forMcGregor & Companyand Sarah is a ReadingInterventionist for Lex-ington and Richland counties. They are join-ing family members Chris and Ashley Stokes in membership here.

Johnny and Jane Scottjoin by transfer of letterfrom St. Paul’s LutheranChurch in Columbia, SC.They live on Moss Springs Road and are both retired. They are joining their son Mikell Scott and family in membership here.

Robert Simmons joins by reaffirmation of faith. He lives with his wife, Amy, on Rickenbaker Road and is a manager at Jamie Scott Fitness. He joins family members Clay and Maggie Mitch-ell and Susan Penning-ton in membership here.

Mason Thomas joins byreaffirmation of faith. Helives on Forest Drive andworks for the South Caroli-na Senate as a Director ofResearch for the Familyand Veteran’s ServicesCommittee. He joins hisfiancé, Emily Faria, inmembership here.

Asheley St. John joins by reaffirmation of faith. She lives on MacKays Point and is self-em-ployed at 1x1 Design. She joins her husband, Brian St. John, and brother Mikell Scott in membership here.

Interested in Joining Eastminster?

SUMMER First Step Class(SAT) June 8 - ARH

(SUN) June 9 - Rm. 258(SUN) *June 23 - Parlor

*New Members Join at 10:15 Traditional Worship

For Class Times, To Sign-up,

or If Questions, Contact Susie Glenn

803.256.1654 ext 123Rev. Brian Marsh Leads EPC’s New Member Ministry. He can be reached at [email protected].


EASTMINSTER TODAY

If you walked into this Presbyterian church the first weekend of March, you may have been taken aback by a most uncommon sight: hundreds of hands raised in the air! Do I hear a “Hallelujah”? Church members, neighbors and friends were invited to stretch outside their comfort zones physically, mentally and emotionally at a pilot event called “Strengthening Your CORE: A Retreat to Stretch Mind, Body and Soul.”

This first-time retreat attracted 250 adult registrants, who chose among 43 class offerings in the areas of fitness, mental health, spiritual disciplines and nutrition. Over 30 children also attended-- many who enjoyed the Kid-Core healthy eating, kid yoga and pottery classes. It was truly an inspirational event for anyone of any age.

The purpose of the CORE Retreat was two-fold: to reach out to neighbors and other non-members, and to en-courage all participants to practice loving God with their whole selves. That may mean taking better care of the “temples of the Holy Spirit”--meaning our bodies-- (1 Cor 6:19) by eating healthier or committing to phys-ical activity. That may mean learning to put aside the things that weigh us down in our minds and work toward more gratefulness and less anxiety. That may mean ded-icating a part of every day for Bible study or spending more time in prayer. Stretching oneself is an individual goal and activity that looks different for each person.

That also means these participants were spread all over campus in various classes led by our pastors, CLC fitness

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” Mark 12:30

core 2019: a “whole-HEALTH” Retreat to Stretch


EASTMINSTER TODAY

instructors, and guest health professionals. It was quite an energetic, spiritually-moving event with positive results. Of the 250 adults registered, 21 percent were non-EPC members, and 42 of the total were not previously active users of the CLC and requested to join. The CORE Retreat also kicked off the six-week Lenten season, during which time EPC’s sermons, Daily Devotionals and additional nighttime classes honed in on scripture from Mark 12:30, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart… soul… mind… and strength.”

One non-member participant said, “The whole theme-- combining exercise with the spirtual-- just perfect! Good balance of both and class offerings. This retreat has been such an encouragement, and as I am looking at churches to attend, this was a great way to get ac-quainted with EPC.” Another participant commented, “I am not an Eastminster member but felt very wel-come and really enjoyed being part of it.”

And an EPC member said it best: “It broke through barriers for the participants. The exercise component, especially during the [general] session, I would think was a big barrier for us Presbyterians to get us out of our shells.” Does that mean we’ll start seeing raised hands in our worship services? Probably not. But hearts and bodies and minds are being strengthened, thanks be to God!

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” Mark 12:30

core 2019: a “whole-HEALTH” Retreat to Stretch Mind, Body, Soul

by Caroline C. Bennett


EASTMINSTER TODAY

FRONT ROW (LtoR):Logan Gentry, Ian Hege, Hank Dillard, Hadley Barbrey, Marshall Morton MIDDLE (LtoR):Evelyn Wilson, Taber Jeffords, Grant Sullivan, Mac Strong, Lawson Stoneburner, Andrew Richardson, Kate Reynolds, Parker Moss, Walker McWilliams, Spencer Lindsay BACK (LtoR):Ellison Judy, Margaret Palmer Waite, Addison Gillespie, Wade Sitton, Leyton Garrett, Campbell Lee, Will Brownlee, Adrian Branham, Ameila Bradley, Gibbes Boineau, Harper A’Hern NOT PICTURED:Elizabeth Boykin, Katherine Boykin, Duncan Hicklin & Haley Hicklin

2019 Worship Discovery Class

Thank you Croskeys, Jenny, Lucy (x2) & Jill (Jenny’s mom) So fun!


EASTMINSTER TODAY

The Greatest Champion Basketball Camp:June 10-13 A parable will be taught each day.

rising 1-5 graders (boys&girls)

music camp:july8.9.10 boys & girls rising k5-5th “There is POWER in the Name of JESUS”

EPC CLC 9am-noon music, art, drums & drama

VBS = Out of This World...Let’s Planet! god is with us on each & every journey


EASTMINSTER TODAY

Congratulations Confirmands:04/28/19

Congratulations Seniors Baccalaureate:05/05/19

FRONT ROW (LtoR):Graham Jenkins, Maddie Verzyl, Anna Ketchum, Lee McCutchen, Claire Pound, Julia Rayfield, Emily Newsome, Anna Young Bennett, Gray Whitener, Mary Martha Beard, Bonnie McDaniel & Beverly HennigBACK ROW (LtoR): Neal Weaver, Henry Long, Eli Swan, Frank Baldwin, Julian McCue, George Schraibman, Sam Weaver, Sam Roddey, Will O’Neal & Leighton Long

FRONT ROW (LtoR):William Fewell, Cooper Burke, Liz Twitty, Grayson Evans, Beth Walker, Lyndsay Moore, Margaret Long, Elizabeth Thompson, Molly Evatt, Ellie Singerling, Sarah Long, Isabelle Royall, Tia Curnias, Ivey Barber, James Marshall Bradley & John McCantsBACK ROW (LtoR):Mark Brown, Christian Hendricks, Thomas Stiles, Carter Hinson, Curry Johnson, David Johns, Hagood Tighe, Michael Zetz, William Morris, Jake Whitener, Matthew Evans, Sam Seigler, Luke Sullivan, James Hutchinson, Rivers McElveen, Boyce Bankhead, Jack Weston, Taylor Brown & Jackson PriceNOT PICTURED:McLeod Zetz & Charlie Griffin


EASTMINSTER TODAY

Summer Missions - 2019Lakota Reservation: Pine Ridge, SD - June 9-16HS Youth Participants: Andrew Abramson, Eli Swan, Ivey Barber, Julia Rayfield, Lee McCutchen, Leighton Long, Lyndsay Moore, Margaret Long, Molly Evatt, Pressley Clark, Sam Seigler, Sarah Long, Tia Curnias, William Bennett, William Fewell, Hill Teas, William Smolka & Will Osborne Leaders: Brad Smith, Chad Abramson, Dustin Curtis, Julie Fewell, Katherine Woody (E2), Laura Long, Patrick Rayfield, Rachel Evatt & Ryan LailPraying Pelican Hurricane Florence Relief: Wilmington, NC - June 16-21MS Youth Participants: Adger Johnson, Ava Grier, Barron Grier, Jr., Claire Williams, Cooper Horton, Ella Seigler,Eloise Laird, Emerson Curnias, Evan Cate Johnson, GiGi Bartlett, Gracie Andrews, JD Owens, John Campbell Blackwelder,Lana Cate Hoffman, Mary Elizabeth Barber, Palmer Mood, Sallie Warren, Thomas Dennis & William Dennis Leaders: Ann Newsome (E2), Hannah Winstead, John Lewis Rainsford, Margie Blackwelder & Tom Griffin

Salkehatchie Summer Service: Aiken, SC - June 22-29HS Youth Participants: Alex Echols, Amanda Collins, Ariana Tata, Beth Walker, Colson Carey, Ellie Singerling, James Blackwelder, James Kitchens, Lyndsay Moore, Maddie Verzyl, Molly Evatt, Sam BakerSarah Germany, Sarah Long, Sarah Walker, Sosie Lipscomb, Stephen Bradley, Thomas Stiles, Van Clark & Wallis Hamilton CHAMPS: Charles Washington, Corey Corley, Devon James, Emonnie Cheeks, Jordan Ward, Malcom Scott, Nia Burton,Nina Hemingway, Queshawn James & Tyanna LloydLeaders: Bill Coggins, Bruce Walker, Jim Evatt, John Shuford, Laura Long, Rachel Evatt, Rebekah Gaston, Robert Echols, Will Elliott & Yolanda Courie Sozo Children’s Home: Uganda, Africa - July 8-18 HS Youth Participants: DuPre Eaddy, Kate Oliver, Kate Swan, Leighton Long, Olivia Davidson, Rebecca Grace Barr, Rucker Brannon & Sims Willard Leaders: Karla Crawford & Laura Long

Costa Rica Missions - July 27-August 3 (MSB Trip)Youth: Ann Murphy Lee, Elloise Laird, Gracie Davidson, Graham Davidson, Jack Stokes, Leighton Long, Millie Laird & Rivers McElveen Adults: Amy Cain, Becky Airheart, Braxton Newman, Brian Marsh, Donnelly Davidson, Fredna Lee, Jennie Lee, Laura Long, Louis McElveen, Mary Elliott, Melissa Stokes, Polly Sim, Quinn Newman, Susan Laird & Will Elliott

“Who is your Christian Role Model? And it can’t be your parents. And it can’t be me. It could be a member of Eastminster like Mrs. Stradtman, or one of your Sunday School teachers. Does anyone come to mind? Well, this isn’t a right now thing. You’ll figure it out. We have time. OK, so here’s the plan - in two Sundays we’re all going to be sitting next to our Christian role models right here in this room. And we’ll share with everyone why they are Christian role models, so think about it and get comfortable...Do y’all remember when we did this last year? It’s going to be great and it will make them feel so special. Adults like that, and they don’t hear it enough. So that’s Sunday School in two weeks. Then we’ll worship together. And you know what would be great, y’all? If you went to lunch together after church. OK, that’s what we’re doing. Think about someone who exemplifies Christ in your life, someone who inspires you - Go God!” - Anonymous

HS Youth Christian Role Model Sunday 70 Adults & Youth Gathered for A Celebration of Role Models on 3/24


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Adult Reception Halljoin us for

THE PEACE SERVICE June 9 - 4:00 PM

GATHER IN QUIET REVERENCE BEFORE GOD. PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER.RECEIVE HOLY COMMUNION.

Congratulations Angie Durrett!

Congratulations Sara Lynn Curtis!

Angie with EPW Council Members Above (LtoR): Nancy Scott, Angie Durrett, Rev. Lynn Grandsire, Sharon Derham & Boo Griffin

Angie with Family Above (LtoR): Angie’s Husband, Dr. Mark Durrett & Father, Mr. Raymond Burke

Sara Lynn Accepts Award Above (LtoR): Sara Lynn Curtis, Jennifer Lott & Rev. Lynn Grandsire

Rev. Lynn Grandsire Welcomes 2019/2020 EPW Coordinating Council Members at installation during Sisters in Christ Dinner on April 24.

EPW Lifetime Membership Award Winners Announced! Sisters In Christ Dinner 4/24


EASTMINSTER TODAY

Room for Renewal & Growth Rev. Lynn Grandsire Speaks About Upcoming Sabbatical As you read this article, I will be on my sab-batical journey. I want you to know how thankful I am that you are giving me this extended time away to find renewal and refreshment for my soul and ministry. In the Old Testament, the fields were left fallow for a year after seven years of growth, and my Sabbatical is similar to that seven years of harvesting in ministry. I completed my seventh year of ministry here at Eastminster in September of 2018, so upon my return hopefully there will be new crops in my ministry fields.

I will be away for all of June and July in a variety of places. I have been working on my Doctor of Ministry degree since the fall of 2018. My doc-toral studies have included class time with other pastors for two weeks these past two Februaries, with one more to come in February of 2020. I will also do research and write for a thesis proj-ect. My Sabbatical will include both study time and renewal time, so that I am refreshed to come back and serve with renewed strength and joy. I will visit a few friends during my travels, and stop by some familiar and some new places as well.

During my Sabbatical, I will be working on my thesis-project which will be considering the topic of pastoral care. You all give me, and the other pastors, the privilege of caring for you and your families. My thesis project will be looking at the areas that pastors could benefit from some continuing education and training in the realm of pastoral care. I am hoping to have much of it written as I will be in New England at the semi-nary campus for two and half weeks, and then in the mountains of North Carolina to continue writ-ing after I have completed my research. Hopeful-ly, I will also be going to Savannah to see one of my previous seminary professors who has written much on the topic of suffering and faith to have some wonderful theological conversations.

I also plan on spending some time with friends along the way. There are many in Massachusetts whom I served and worshipped with while in seminary that I will connect with while there. I also have a few interviews to schedule with some long-time pastors who are both local and in differ-ent places. I will also have a chance to see Rev-

erend Jeff onway, who preached my installation service here, and then have conversations with others who have been mentors for me, both in Massachusetts and Florida.

I have already spent a week at my favorite beach, Sanibel Island, in Florida and unwound just a bit before starting my nine week sabbatical journey.I have a week scheduled with a friend to go to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island at the end of June. I am excited about spending time in this quiet island setting and seeing the haunts of Anne of Green Gables who enjoyed life fully in this small community. You will be in good hands while I am away. Par-ish Associate Dr. Carol Byrd will be providing most of the care, but Brad, Brian and Mark will also be caring for you in my absence. I am excited both about what God is doing in my life and min-istry through this study and also about being able to concentrate on this focused study and renewal time. My prayer is that my findings will not only impact the care at Eastminster, but also in the larger church as a whole.

You will be in my thoughts and prayers while I am away. I will miss you as you are near and dear to this pastor’s heart. Pastor Lynn, Associate Pastor of Congregational Care

Above (LtoR):Rev. Lynn Grandsire, Connie Parramore & Barbara Dixon


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In Loving Honor And Memory: Gifts Supporting the Eastminster Endowment: In memory of Taylor Smith, given by Nonie Price.In memory of Elyssa Grace Hill, given by Sharmin & John Hill.In memory of JoAnn Campbell, given by Deborah & John Goodwin, Betty Gurnell, and Charlotte L. Ellis.In memory of Fordyce Harwood Mason III, given by Gerda Kahn, Sally & Milan O’Bradovich, Cynthia Warner, Palmetto Tile Distributors, Inc., Becky & Buzz Smythe, Inki Kim & Hyo Jung Kang, Jan Cambre, Sally & Bill McWilliams, Mark D. McGregor, and Lisbeth & Samuel Agee.In memory of William “Bill” Besley, given by Denise Burke.In memory of Nancy Carson, given by Elizabeth & Lee Richards and Elizabeth & Samuel Clawson.In memory of George Robert Dawson, given by Debbie & Ron Scott and Betty & Bartow Gilbert.In memory of Taylor Smith, given by Betty & Bartow Gilbert.In memory of Porter Barron, given by Betty & Bartow Gilbert.In memory of Jamie Nettles, given by Betty & Bartow Gilbert.In memory of JoAnn Campbell, given by Betty & Bartow Gilbert.In memory of Doris Wilson-Woest, given by Suzie Wattenbarger.In memory of Barbara Huff Beville Dillender, given by Suzie Wattenbarger.In memory of Daniel Belton “Chip” Amaker, Jr., given by Suzie Wattenbarger.In memory of Dan Fowler, given by Suzie Wattenbarger.In memory of A.J. Kriley, given by Suzie Wattenbarger.In memory of Henry B. Kemp, given by Suzie Wattenbarger.In memory of Annie Mae Goodman-Kennedy, given by Suzie Wattenbarger.In memory of Charlotte Cassels, given by Suzie Wattenbarger. In honor of Sarah, Charles, and Campbell Sharpe, given by Mrs. Sammy Crapps.In honor of Salley & Walter Rama, given by Mrs. Sammy Crapps.In honor of Clark Ellison, given by M/M L. A. Marsha, Jr. In honor of G. Edmund Richmond, Jr., MD, given by Heather P. Coleman.In honor of Marilyn Hupp, given by Heidi R. Blount.

Gifts Supporting the Music Ministry Fund:In memory of William David Dye, given by Suzie Wattenbarger, Sally & Leggs Clark, and Margo & Mark Orlandini.In memory of Mari Lynn Gray, given by Ellen & Andy Faris.In memory of Fordyce Harwood Mason III, given by Juda & Richard Reinhardt, Chery. A. Yates, and Richard Demarest.In memory of Mary Ann Masek, given by Fredna Lee. Gifts Supporting the Carolyn Holderman Nurture Family Fund:In memory of Ellen Scoville, given by Suzie Wattenbarger, Beverly D. Mims, and Dr. & Mrs. William Weston III. Gifts Supporting the Dr. Joe Bryan Donaho Teaching Church Endowment Fund:In memory of Fordyce Harwood Mason III, given by Lynn & Neal Beard.In memory of William “Bill” Besley, given by Lynn & Neal Beard.

Gifts Supporting the Missy Boyd EDS Scholarship Fund:In memory of Frances Steck, given by Barbara & Austin Boyd.In memory of Carolyn June King, given by Barbara & Austin Boyd.

Gift Supporting the Care Team Ministry:In memory of JoAnn Campbell, given by Cynthia & Julian Dew. Gifts Supporting the Thornwell Home for Children:In honor of Pierce Elizabeth Bunch, given by Marcia & Ted Autterson. Gift Supporting the Youth Endowment:In memory of Charlotte Cassels, given by the General Accounting and Finance Department at Southeastern Freight Lines, Inc.

Submitted by Anna Bower


EASTMINSTER TODAY

Front Row: (LtoR) Bob Sturm (15 yrs), Lee Mitchell (15 yrs), Fredna Lee (25 yrs) Back Row: (LtoR) Tony Taylor (25 yrs), Dr. Brad Smith (10 yrs) Not pictured: Mary Baldauf (25 yrs)

MILESTONES: Years of Service Awards

Pastor Nominating Committees:

Staff Appreciation Luncheon May 17, 2019 - Speaking: Personnel Committee Chair: Kathy Helms (left), EDS Chair: Sharon Shuler (center) & Sr. Pastor: Dr. Brad Smith (right)

Dupre Eaddy, (CENTER) youth rep for PNC, at Pancake Supper ‘18. Other members: Jimmy Long (Chair), Elizabeth Barber, Mark Childress, Mallie DiBiase, Coke Mann, Shannon McCutchen, Patrick Rayfield & Amy Teas

Front Row (LtoR): Lucie Eggleston, Ginger Bates & Susi McWilliamsBack Row (LtoR): Hampton Oliver & LeeAnn HarrisNot pictured: Clay Robinson & Hagood Tighe

The above PNC is in search of a Sr. Associate for Administration & Adult Discipleship. Ginger Bates chairs this committee. This PNC is currently interviewing pastoral candidates. This pastor will have particular gifts for, and responsibilities in, three areas including: Administration/Management, Adult Education/Disciple-ship, and Missions/ Benevolence, even as this person will have generalist duties related to worship, care, preaching, weddings, funerals, presbytery involvement, etc. “This position is one that requires a candidate to have a heart for teaching the scriptures, developing disciples of Christ and the spiritual maturity and skill to mentor, lead and develop people and ministries within the church. We have reviewed many Personal Information Forms (PIFs) and have had conversations with sev-eral qualified candidates. We are definitely making progress and working hard with God’s guidance to discern who He is calling to Eastminster..” - Ginger Bates

A second PNC is in search of an Associate Pastor for Sr. High Youth & their Families. Jimmy Long chairs this search committee. This pastor will have particular gifts for, and responsibilities in, the areas of Senior High Youth/Families and Young Adults up to age 33, even as this person will have generalist duties related to worship, care, missions, preaching, weddings, funerals, presby-tery involvement, etc. “We have interviewed several qualified associates and are encouraged by the candidates so far. Our committee feels strongly that we carefully consider the spiritual gifts and talents of the nominee, and seek an extroverted, authentic person who can lead our dynamic program. This person will have a passion for the faith development of young people, and a willingness to communicate and lead students and young adults on their faith journeys. We are excited to see how God leads us, and hope to have a recommendation in the fall.” - Jimmy Long

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Now in its fifth year at Eastminster, the Small Groups Ministry has altered its focus from building a base of groups to reaching out beyond each group’s borders. That shift from an inward concentration to an outward focal point has led groups to serve more in the commu-nity, learn outside the meeting space, and extend invita-tions for other groups to join them in social ventures.

Starting in September 2018, the 46 Small Groups have been encouraged to be more intentional about serving together in the community. While some groups elect to help charitable organizations that are dear to them outside the church, others choose from the many service opportunities EPC has identified-- such as filling the re-frigerator for Family Promise guests, stuffing backpacks for Bradley Elementary, providing or wrapping Christ-mas gifts for St. Lawrence Place or Circle of Giving, or feeding the homeless at Transitions.

“Our Small Group went to Transitions to take them fruit and granola bars for a snack. We were so glad to put smiles on their faces! Some of us with elementary aged children took our kids with us to show them the importance of serving others,” says Elizabeth Rasor, facilitator of a Women’s Small Group that meets on Tuesday mornings.

A Men’s Small Group did something similar. “During a home communion, I had met member Don Michie, who mentioned that our pastors had been trying to get a group together to help with yardwork at his house. Our Small Group decided to combine with a few other guys and sons to rake leaves and clean up as much as we could. Personally, I think the highlight of the morning

was when we were gathered in Don’s living room, and he showed us some of his old Bible collection. Then Mark Childress led us all in prayer. It was a very spe-cial moment of fellowship,” says Kit Pound, member of Matthew Burns’ Friday morning Small Group.

In addition to serving outside in the community, each group has been charged with inviting another

Small Group for a social gathering to get to know others better.

“It was neat to meet with a different age group, because we’re all moms with small children,” says Rasor, whose group combined with the seniors of Chris Lawson’s Women’s Group for a ladies tea this Spring. “A lot of us have lost our grandparents, so it was fun to borrow ‘grandparents’ for the day and get their thoughts on life. We prayed together, ate together and visited. It was a win-win for everyone.”Bill and Marit Bobo’s Couples Group also combined with another group for a social. “In January of this year, our Small Group hosted Jim and Ann St. John’s ‘No Name Small Group’ in our home. It was a fantastic evening. Something wondrous happened-- real connec-tions. All of a sudden we felt like family-- laughter and conversations flowed easily-- we surely bonded,” says Bill Bobo.A few groups have taken the think-outside-the-box prompt to another level by packing cars and heading on field trips to Mepkin Abbey near Charleston, a Fireflies sporting event or a musical. “Our Thursday midday Small Group enjoyed a day trip

Above: Members of Matthew Burns’ Small Group & Sons Above: Candid from Lawson & Rasor Combined Small Group Tea

Eastminster Small Groups...


EASTMINSTER TODAY

to Mepkin Abbey this Spring to tour the Trappist mon-astery, view the beautiful grounds and enjoy fellowship with each other. Highlights were walking the labyrinth, attending the noon prayer service in the chapel, seeing the blooms and spreading a picnic on the lawn for a lunchtime Bible study. It was a great time for our group to reflect and connect,” says Sharmin Hill, who leads a group of eight women.Over time, SG’s can naturally become inwardly focused.

While it’s important to take care of group members and spur one another on, it’s also healthy to occasional-ly look beyond these circles to learn from and care for others in our larger congregation and beyond. Eastmin-ster’s Small Groups are certainly doing that this year, as their impact and reach are positively affecting the multitudes.

Above: Members of Sharmin Hill’s Small Group at Mepkin Abbey Above (LtoR) Elizabeth Rasor, Caroline Bennett & Melissa Gentry

by Caroline C. Bennett - SG Coordinator

NED for Adults: Large Groups This Summer

SAVE THE DATES!Adult VBS:

AUGUST 6, 7 & 8TH BECOMING AN APOSTLE:

Journeys with PaulTEACHING: ED BLACK,

DR. MARK DURRETT & EMILY THEUSContact Susie Glenn w/?’s ext. 123

Reaching Beyond Borders....


EASTMINSTER TODAY

ulia Rayfield, EPC youth and recent Dreher High School graduate, was hesitant to be “celebrated” here. Her mom emailed to say “but because she loves Eastminster,” she agreed to be interviewed. Af-ter meeting Julia in Houston last June on a mission trip, and seeing what I thought was a photo of her dog, Harley (above center), I realized the painting we were doing together in Vidor, TX, was not the same kind her dad, Patrick, was referring to when he mentioned Julia being “good” at painting.... Fast forward: Over the past year, you may have seen or heard about her well-deserved honors and awards via a Facebook friend, The State Newspaper, or at Senior Night at the McCutchen’s house. She has already won several Richland 1 District Awards and received scholarship offers for both art and academ-ics from schools like Wofford, USC Honors and Furman, where she will be a freshman next fall. You may have listened to her sermon on Youth Sunday right here in the sanctuary last January. Or over the years you may have cheered for her while she played soccer, or against her while she played bas-ketball. (Yes, she played basketball for eleven years on a different church’s team.) However it is that you’ve witnessed her special gifts or walked with her per-

sonally, I think we can agree that Julia is someone we can all learn from. As we sat at her kitchen table, the “best seat in the house” - due to recent renova-tions made by Jim Evatt (Jennifer’s brother, also part of the EPC family) and where Julia often draws and paints, Jennifer smiled and said, “This is where the magic happens....” Q: “When did you first know?” I asked. Jennifer explained that they always knew she was artistic, but that they really saw by comparison after receiving a call from Teri Smith (aka Miss Teri), her teacher at Eastminster Day School, asking them to be sure and “see Julia’s pumpkin painting that was on display.” Julia was four. The pumpkin was advanced. Miss Teri - still at EDS - had this to say about her previ-ous student, “I am extremely proud and excited for Julia. She is just so special. I always knew she was going to be successful. She has amazing gifts....” Teri was holding her hand to her heart as she spoke. Q: Other accolades? A little later, at age 9, Julia’s elephant painting was displayed at the SC State Fair and 5 other pieces of her art were displayed on East Bay St. during Charleston’s Spoleto Festival - by invitation.... At 14, she attended the Governor’s School for the Arts Summer Camp....And today, the

J


EASTMINSTER TODAY

Interview with Jennifer and Julia Rayfield“Hands” drawing, opposite page far left, will hang in the U.S. Capitol for an entire year, selected as the winner for this prestigious spot.

Q: “Artistic heroes and role-models?” An early men-tor (first grade at A.C. Moore) and now longtime friend, is artist and teacher, Brittany Morgan. Julia remembers being taught as a child by Brittany, and talks about Morgan’s travels and adventures in Hong Kong and Australia - admiring how she “just paints wherever she is.” We talked a little about drawing from life vs. stills and the differences in regard to her commissioned artwork - already be-ing sought after by many - which includes a variety of subject matter - from a newlywed couple’s new home, to a friend’s chocolate lab and her favorite, portrait commissions. Q: “Challenges when doing portraits?” - “I’ve done portraits before of people I didn’t know and the buyer would ask for a tweak here or there...I would look at my grid and all the lines would be accurate, I guess it is harder to capture that unseen inner something when you don’t know the person you are drawing.” What makes her happiest is when her art “reflects a person’s unique personality.” She smiled and looked me in the eye as we talked more. Her favorite medium is acrylic paint, but she also likes Prismacolor pencils and Copic markers. Her portfolio contains amazing portraits. Her favorite two pieces are“Hands” and the illustration (right) with her cousin and friend Rachel Evatt, also photo-graphed together bottom right.

During our short visit, Julia’s immediate and ex-tended family, as well as her Eastminster family, came up repeatedly as significant influences in her life and part of her normal routine. I asked her about the upcoming mission trip to South Dako-ta that she and her dad will take in June, a second father-daughter journey of service. She said she feels very lucky to have grown up in such a dynamic church with a strong youth program...and loves that she and her sister, Anna, and their cousins Rachel and Molly Evatt share growing up together as family within the Eastminster family.

We finished up talking about how Laura Long can talk almost anyone, “even someone shy like me,” into preaching on Youth Sunday.... And we were laughing as they started talking about a Young Life hiking trip Julia is going on this summer with no shelter or amenities. I looked at her and thought to myself -- shy maybe....strong definitely! Anyone who can draw like this, paint walls in 90-degree Texas heat, compete on a soccer field or basketball court and “camp” literally under the stars...is strong. The

other word that keeps coming to mind when I think about Julia is “happy.” Artist, scholar, athlete, Chris-tian, daughter, sister, cousin, friend and soon to be Paladin: We celebrate your many unique strengths and talents, and look forward to “following” you.

“ I see art as being something that I could never abandon, something that I will continue to do until I can’t hold a pencil anymore....I believe art keeps me confident, creative and humble.” - Julia Porth Rayfield

Above (LtoR): Rachel Evatt and Julia Rayfield Souper Bowl of Caring Luncheon - Williams Brice Stadium



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A MAGAZINE ABOUT THE MINISTRIES OF EASTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN … · 2020-02-26 · rea rmation of...

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