The BeaconMonthly newsletter of Christ Presbyterian ChurCh august 2014

4225 W. Sylvania ave | Toledo, ohio 43623 | 419.475.8629

INSIDE THIS ISSUEPastor’s Desk................Pg 2faithful reaDs...............Pg 4CroP walk....................Pg 7

OUR MISSIONuniteD through Christ’s love we are CalleD to graCiously invite PeoPle to Jesus Christ; enCourage sPiritual growth; ProMote enriChing worshiP; foster CoMMunity; anD equiP MeMbers for faithful serviCe in our ChurCh, CoMMunity, anD worlD.

TOM SCHWARTZPastor

KRIS SCHONDELMEYERassoCiate Pastor

www.CPCtoleDo.org

During the month of August, Tom Schwartz will again be offering a summertime faith and film series highlighting some dramatic and thought-provoking films. The films will be shown in Hansen Hall and then a discussion will follow (for those who are able to stay) in Scott Hall. Each film will begin at 6:00 p.m. and the entire event will conclude at 9:00 p.m.

The Butler Pg-13 132 Min august 13Cecil Gaines (played by Forrest Whitaker) was a sharecropper’s son who grew up in the 1920s as a domestic servant for the white family who casually destroyed his. Eventually striking out on his own, Cecil becomes a butler in the White House itself. There, Cecil would serve numerous US Presidents over the decades as a passive witness of history with the American Civil Rights Movement gaining momentum even as his family has troubles of its own.

NoahPg-13 138 Min august 20The film begins by briefly retelling the beginning of the book of Genesis and then shares the struggles of Noah as he seeks to be faithful to God. Russell Crowe plays the role of the adult Noah and his wife is played by Jennifer Connelly. The movie expands upon the Biblical text and provides us with some thoughtful and challenging images of what it means to place your trust in God.

PhilomenaPg-13 98 Min august 27A world-weary political journalist picks up the story of a woman’s search for her son, who was taken away from her decades ago after she became pregnant and was forced to live in a convent in Ireland. Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan) and Philomena (Judi Dench) both find their basic beliefs challenged.

2014 FAITH AND FILM SERIES

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PASTOR’S DESK

Dear Friends,

Last month I came away from the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) with a hopeful outlook. Though I may not have agreed with every decision that was made, I appreciated the fact that our commissioners from around the country were trying to be faithful to their understanding of how we can best work together as followers of Jesus Christ. There are always at least two sides to most issues and that was certainly voiced and acknowledged in committee meetings and plenary meetings of the full General Assembly. What has always impressed me is that when Presbyterians take the time to study together

and pray together, a greater understanding of God’s providence and compassion is usually exposed. There was certainly a lot of politicking going on by special interest groups, but in many cases commissioners took the time to listen to each other.

We need to take the time to listen to each other as well. I was disheartened to receive a letter from a couple in our church asking to withdraw from membership because they did not agree with the moral values of our denomination. They indicated that they had given their decision prayerful thought. I decided to take some time praying before I called them, in the hope that God’s spirit might prevail in our conversation. Their decision had been based on the media’s reporting of the controversial issues of same gender marriage and the divestment of funds in three corporations doing business in Israel. It was clear that they had made up their minds, so there was no benefit in clarifying what actually occurred. I am sorry for the loss of their presence in worship and in church activities.

The week after I received this resignation letter, I encouraged anyone who had questions about the General Assembly’s actions to meet with me in the Chapel following worship so that they could hear what actually took place. I also hoped that we could use this occasion as an opportunity to begin a dialogue on controversial issues facing the church. I explained that the General Assembly did approve changing the language in our Book of Order to allow same gender marriage, but now each presbytery must enter into a time of discernment because a majority of presbyteries must approve this change for it to take place. Pastors and churches that serve in one of the nineteen states that have approved same gender marriage may now perform marriage services for same gender couples. I also commented that our denomination is still supportive of Israel and invests in several corporations doing business in Israel. However, we took action against investing in Caterpillar, Hewlett-Packard and Motorola Solutions because after repeated conversations with those corporations, they have refused to stop supporting efforts which promote the building of Jewish Settlements in disputed territories. Hopefully, we will continue to encourage efforts which will promote justice for Israel and our Palestinian Christian brothers and sisters. Over 25 members attended our after church gathering and I hope it will just be the beginning of an ongoing dialogue. We need to listen to each other, learn from each other, and most importantly, strive to do God’s will.

The members of our congregation have diverse political and theological perspectives. I pray that we can use our diversity to help us gain a clearer perspective of how God is working in our midst. We may not always agree with each other, but let us value each other’s presence as we seek to be faithful followers of Jesus Christ.

Peace and blessings, Tom Schwartz

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HEARD AND “OVERHEARD”Congregation news CoMPileD by barb ball

Christine Vischer combined a vacation tour with one of her favorite interests, music. Christine is a member of the Rhodes College Singers from Memphis, Tennessee. This year the group traveled to France. They performed at la Madeleine Church in Paris the European debut of Composer Jennifer Higdon’s Singing Rooms. Jennifer is not too well known, but

won a Pulitzer Prize for music in 2010. The 500 member choir also sang Fauvre’s Requiem.

From Paris, the assembly traveled to the American Cemetery on Omaha Beach on the Normandy Coast. There they sang at a wreath laying ceremony on the 4th of July. The wreath layers were in uniform and as they placed the wreath at the grave they prayed and saluted. Christine was impressed by the beauty and serenity of the location especially in contrast to the carnage that took place there 70 years ago.

The trip concluded with visits to Chartres Cathedral and Mont Saint-Michel.

Not all weddings take place in June; July 13, 2014 was the date of the lovely wedding of Katie Timmer’s sister, Erin Cutre to Luke Brooks. Katie served as one of Erin’s bridesmaids. Tom Timmers was one of his new brother-in-law’s groomsmen, and young Dominic Timmers was the very able ring bearer. The ceremony took place in the Christ Presbyterian Church Chapel with the Reverend Tom Schwartz officiating. Best wishes to the newlyweds, Erin and Luke Brooks.

Please let us know the exciting, interesting, or newsworthy happenings in your world. Send to Barb Ball at 419 824 7906 or bar1tom2 @bex.net. It will be greatly appreciated.

LED BY THE SPIRIT... ... Meet elDer Cheryl Porrett

The elder being introduced to the congregation this month is Cheryl Porrett. Cheryl is originally from Port Huron, Michigan. She graduated Port Huron Northern High School and Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan; there she received a Business Degree with an emphasis in computer technology upon graduation.

In 1984, Cheryl moved to Toledo to take a job with Owens-Corning in the field of Information Technology. She has been attending CPC since her arrival in Toledo and joined the church in 1985.

She is serving the first year of her third three year term as an elder. Currently, she is a team leader of the Mission Team. Previously, she was on the Christian Education and Memorial committees.

Her service at CPC has not been limited to leadership positions; Cheryl is a member of the Chancel Choir, the Hand Bell Choir, serves on the Corner Classic Team, and has been a member of every mission team CPC has sponsored in the U.S.

During her free time, Cheryl enjoys reading, baking, and traveling-especially on trips that involve hiking and mountain climbing. She also enjoys spending time with her siblings and her seven nephews and two nieces, cheering on the Detroit Tiger’s baseball team and volunteering at the LPGA golf tournaments.

Serving as an elder and participating in the program and projects offered by CPC has furthered Cheryl’s spiritual growth in ways she didn’t expect. Being a part of the mission teams and witnessing the devastation and need in the lives of others, has made her realize how blessed she has always been. Cheryl desires to share her blessings with others and hopes her efforts make a difference in their lives.

EXPLORING MEMBERSHIPnew Dates sCheDuleD for sePteMber

Individuals who desire to be members of Christ Presbyterian Church are encouraged to get actively involved in worship and our wide variety of educational and service opportunities. To learn more about our church and its mission, you are invited to attend one of our Exploring Membership Classes that are taught by Pastor Tom Schwartz. This class includes participating

in our “Discovering and Sharing Your Gifts, Talents, and Passion” course. Come with your questions, concerns and enthusiasm. The next class will be on Thursday, September 11 and Thursday, September 18 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.; dinner will be included. Please sign up at the welcome cart in the Narthex or the welcome table in Hansen Hall or with Kelsey in the church office at 419-475-8629 for more information.

CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP

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SERMON TALKSbible stuDy

Sermon Talks is a Bible study opportunity where participants read the passage for the upcoming week’s sermon and then dialogue about what the passage says to them. The group meets on Tuesday mornings from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at the church. Currently we are on summer break. We will begin meeting again on September 9. Please contact Pastor Kris if you are interested in joining this fun Bible study. All are welcome!!!

FIRST SUNDAY FORUMPCusa general asseMbly reCaP

On the first Sunday of August we will continue our series on the General Assembly of the PCUSA. This First Sunday Forum is an opportunity to learn about some of the major decisions that were addressed at this year’s General Assembly. The First Sunday Forum will be held directly following the 10:00am All Church Communion Service on Sunday, August 3. Please plan to grab a cup of coffee and a snack after worship and join us back in the sanctuary for this special event.

FAITHFUL READS“a gentler goD”A book study group that will read and discuss the books of contemporary Christian authors. Each book will help us to explore our own faith and life. The discussions will help us to grow as a faithful Christian community.

The next book will be: “A Gentler God” by Dr. Douglas Frank. Dr. Frank (a personal friend of Pastor Kris) tracks and diagnosis what’s wrong with American evangelicalism in a gracious and compassionate way. At the same time, Dr. Frank offers one of the most moving accounts of

Jesus’ humanity and death that you might ever read. He helps us to break free from a theology of judgment and fear as we journey with the human Jesus into God’s unconditional love and grace. In Jesus, we see who God is…and I think you’ll like what you see...for you will meet “A Gentler God”. The group will meet each Wednesday starting on September 17 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in the hospitality room at Christ Presbyterian Church. Contact Pastor Kris by Sunday, September 7 if you are interested in being a part of this group: kris@cpctoledo.org

DISCIPLEbible stuDy

DISCIPLE is a program of disciplined Bible study aimed at developing strong Christian followers. The study gives the Old and New Testa¬ments equal time emphasizing the wholeness of the Bible as a revelation of God. DISCIPLE draws upon the work of scholars, the personal Bible reading and study of the participant, and dynamic group discussion to aid understanding of the Bible. This 34-week program will take us through the fall, winter and spring. It will require much, but the reward will be even greater. If you’ve always wanted to understand more about the Bible, but have been embarrassed to join a class, then this class is for you. If you are willing to commit the time to a more in-depth Bible study, then join Pastor Kris in this un-judgmental, safe, introductory class as we explore the Christian Bible. This Bible study will begin meeting in September, date and time TBD. Please contact Pastor Kris is you are interested: kris@cpctoledo.org.

CONTEMPLATIVE PRAYER SERVICEMonDay evenings in sePteMber

Have you ever had a case of the Mondays? Have you ever wanted to take a timeout? Have you ever wanted some personal time with God, but you needed help learning how

CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP

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to do that? Then join us on Monday evenings starting on September 15 from 7:00pm – 7:40pm for a Contemplative Prayer Service. There is no requirement to be available every week. But, I can promise that you will begin to desire the opportunity each week to refocus your life toward God. As the group takes shape, we will engage in different contemplative practices that will help us to explore the image of God that exists within each one of us. And as we do, we’ll discover a more compassionate view of ourselves, and of the world around us. Please contact Pastor Kris if you are interested in being a part of this Contemplative Prayer Group: kris@cpctoledo.org

MOM’S SMALL GROUPJoin us for fellowshiP tiMeThe Mom’s Small Group meets one Wednesday morning a month from 9:30am-11:00am at the church. We welcome all moms! We meet in the classroom area so that preschoolers may play while we enjoy the fellowship time with other moms. Our August date is Wednesday, August 13.

Please contact Kathy in the church office (kathy@cpctoledo.org) or Kate Backoff and Allison Johnson.

DEBORAH CIRCLEJoin us for fellowshiP tiMe

The next Deborah Circle meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 13 at 12:30 p.m. Anyone is welcome to join us. We will be meeting at Christ Presbyterian Church.

by the numbers

Is the number of pounds of squash, cucumbers and peppers grown and picked in the CPC garden through July! All produce is used at The Corner or given to the Feed Your Neighbor program where it

is greatly appreciated.

Thank you to the musicians of Christ Presbyterian for their ministry of music through the past year. Approximately 50 adults and children share their

gifts of music through our Chancel Choir, Handbell Choir, Praise Team, and Children’s Choir.

The size of the Youth Mission Team (9 youth, 4 adults) that spent a week doing mission work in the

Cincinnati-area from July 27 - August 1.

13 kids and 4 adults came for a fun and exciting Mystery Day at Sky Zone. Sky Zone is the world’s

first indoor trampoline park.

89

50

13

17

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A DAY AT THE LAKECPC youth

The CPC Youth Group will be hosting A Day at the Lake for youth (going into 7th - 12th grades in the fall) at the Gildemeister Lake House at Devil’s Lake on Friday, August 8 from 9:00am - 8:00pm. We will meet at CPC, ride together to Devil’s Lake, and enjoy a day on the water. The Gildemeister family will provide the lake house...the Youth Ministry Team will provide the food...and all we need you to provide is yourself - ready to jump in the lake! Please RSVP with Pastor Kris by Wednesday, August 6 to let him know if you will join us for “A Day at the Lake”. We hope to see you there. And, remember...you can always bring a friend!!! Contact Pastor Kris: kris@cpctoledo.org

YOUTH GROUP KICKOFF2013-2014 sChool year

Youth entering 6th - 12th grades and their families (parents and siblings) are invited to join us for the 2013 - 2014 Youth Group Kick-off. We will meet on Sunday, September 7 at 6:00pm for a family dinner (provided by CPC). At 6:30pm we will begin our program for the evening; our very own Sporting Event: “Youth Group Olympics”. The event will include group and individual games involving the audience (that’s you), and the 2014 - 2015 Youth Mentors. At 7:30pm we will have a quick overview of the 2014 - 2015 Youth Group season. We will have a packet for each family giving details about our Youth Group schedule, contact info. for our Youth Mentors, and permission forms to be signed. Please plan to join us for this evening of great fun for the entire family. E-mail Pastor Kris if you would like information about CPC Youth programming: kris@cpctoledo.org

Regular Youth Group programming on Sunday evenings from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. will begin on September 21.

CONFIRMATION6th - 8th graDe stuDents

We are rolling out the 3rd year of our new 3 year Confirmation program for 6th - 8th grade students who are interested in becoming full members of the congregation. Confirmation is typically a journey that each young person in the church takes at a time when they claim their faith for themselves. This is a very special and sacred time in a young person’s life, and we are excited to walk

with them. Confirmation Classes for 6th – 8th graders will begin meeting weekly on Sunday, September 21 during the 10:00am worship service. To find out more about our Confirmation program, please contact Pastor Kris: kris@cpctoledo.org

MYSTERY DAYsky Zone - inDoor traMPoline Park

Mystery Day was a big hit this year, 13 kids came for a fun and exciting day at Sky Zone. Sky Zone is the world’s first indoor trampoline park. They spent the day bouncing, flipping and landing in a pit filled with 10,000 foam cubes. Trampoline dodgeball was the highlight of the afternoon. The kids enjoyed a lunch at Ruby Tuesdays and of course ice cream at Netty’s; thanks Jeff Long!

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2014 SUMMER HOURS

SUNDAY WORSHIP

10:00 a.m. all services combined in

the sanctuary

FALL WORSHIP SCHEDULEWe Will return to our three Worship services this fall.

starting in september, We Will have an 8:30 chapel service, 10:00 traditional service in the sanctuary, and an 11:15

contemporary service in hansen hall

we will be holDing eDuCation PrograMs for ChilDren at 10:00 a.M.

PRIME TIME LUNCHEONuPCoMing sCheDule for august anD sePteMber

A monthly educational ministry opportunity for all vibrant older adults. Participants enjoy lunch together, share in the joy of fellowship, and engage in creative and intriguing educational programs.

Wednesday, August 612:00p.m.A speaker from Nature’s Nursery in Whitehouse, OH.At least two different rescue animals (or birds, or…?) willalso be with us. It will be a “good feeling” program!!

Wednesday, September 312:00p.m.Scott Carpenter, Director of Public Relations, Toledo MetroParks, will be with us to share stories and history of the beautiful and well-visited parks in Toledo and surrounding areas.

All persons interested are welcome to attend!Please NOTE the change in making reservations!Call in your reservations by 3 P.M. the Monday before the program by calling Barbara Brownlee at 419-381-2088 or by emailing her: bdbrownlee@prodigy.net.

TOLEDO CROP HUNGER WALKsunDay, oCtober 12 at 2:00 P.M.CROP Hunger Walks are community-wide events sponsored by Church World Service and organized by local volunteers to raise funds to end hunger. This year’s Toledo Area CROP Hunger Walk planning committee hosts two of our very own. Pastor Kris has been actively involved in helping to organize this wonderful event, and 13abc

Chief Meteorologist, Jay Berschback, is returning as the Honorary Chair. Children, youth and adults are invited to participate in this walk at the University of Toledo to take a stand against hunger and poverty locally and beyond. Twenty five percent of the money you raise through the CROP Hunger Walk stays in Toledo and goes to the Feed Your NEIGHBOR program of Toledo Area Ministries.

Through Pastor Kris’ involvement and the wonderful support of 13abc Chief Meteorologist, Jay Berschback, CPC’s influence has been implemental. Now we need your help and your commitment to be a part of the CPC CROP Hunger Walk Team. Whether you are a young parent with a baby and a stroller or a seasoned saint, we encourage all CPC members to get involved in this local mission opportunity. Please speak with Pastor Kris if you are interested in being a part of CPC’s CROP Hunger Walk Team. kris@cpctoledo.org

FEED YOUR NEIGHBORDonation sCheDule There is a tremendous need for food and toiletries for the Feed Your Neighbor Program. Each Sunday, there will be a specific item listed in the bulletin for those wishing to participate. There will be marked boxes on carts in the Narthex and near the Hansen Hall doors.

August 3 - Canned MeatsAugust 10 - Canned VegetablesAugust 17 - Fruit JuiceAugust 24 - Soup and CrackersAugust 31 - Toilet Paper