December Outreach

T h e 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 N a p l e s

Celebration Commitment Compassion

DECEMBER 2012

You’re invited to join us each Sunday at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel

Worship and Music 4

From the Senior Pastor 2

News and Events 14

Christian Education 5

Calendar 8

Finance 13

Mission 10

Preschool 7

Congregational Care 12

Children and Youth 3 From the Associate Pastor 3

Session 13

A Service of Lessons and Carols with the Chancel Choir Sunday, December 9, 2012 at 4:00 p.m.

A message from Session 3

From the Senior Pastor Dr. Edward Thompson, Senior Pastor, [email protected] 2

Dear Members and

Friends,

The arrival of Advent

often reminds me of

Samuel Becket’s play

Waiting for Godot

with the two

characters, Vladimir

and Estrogon,

endlessly waiting, yet

not knowing exactly

whom they are

waiting for and if such a person will turn up, and if so,

will they recognize that person. Unlike Vladimir and

Estrogon, we enter Advent knowing exactly whom we

are waiting for, the gospels have spoken the truth, God

becomes flesh and dwells among us. Advent, although it

is full of waiting, is not an anxious waiting but rather an

excited waiting, full of anticipation and delight, that

come Christmas we herald the arrival of God in our

midst.

Advent, although it comes round each year, it does so

with freshness and vitality. We need to be reminded that

God is not distant nor silent but through grace and mercy

moves and stirs us to faithful following and hopeful

living. Thank God that God is present, not distant.

As I write this I am very conscious that this is my last

small “epistle” to members and friends. I am excited and

confident that God’s presence among us means that we

move forward with hope and joy. God is not distant nor

absent. God moves and stirs us in our faithfulness.

Therefore, we move forward full of expectation and

excitement as we play our full part in God’s promise.

Although I might be tempted to look back and review, it

is more important to look up and forward. We have

journeyed together these past four years and we can give

thanks to God for the grace we have encountered and

shared, we can give thanks for the love which has grown

in our hearts, and give thanks for the witness we have

together rendered. Let us look up to God who is our

Shepherd, our Rock, our Lord, and our Savior. Let us fix

our eyes upon Jesus, only then shall we see the way

forward. Let us look forward with hope and excitement

that God will continue to reveal to us the way of Christ.

My prayer for you is that with your faithfulness firmly

rooted in God and your love generously shared with each

other, First Presbyterian Church, which gathers at the

intersection of 6th Street and 3rd Avenue, will continue

to be at the intersection of people’s lives in important

and transforming ways.

Advent is the season of song and we, as the people of

God, have much to sing about. Let us be sure to sing out

the good news of Christ in ways that can be heard and

felt by the community around us. Might our song be

carried by prayer and action beyond not only the

boundaries of Naples, but also beyond the shores of our

nation. As followers of Christ we are part of the world

church and we share with sisters and brothers around the

globe in the mission to spread the good news to all

nations and peoples.

On a personal note I wish to thank you for all your

kindness and grace over these past years. Although our

three sons are not known to you, your prayers for them

and your expression of delight and joy for Elizabeth and

me when we became grandparents, was at times

overwhelming. How true you were, being a grandparent

is quite special! Richard and Jenna who live in St. Louis

will become parents in February!

In this season of Advent let us herald the arrival of the

King of kings and the Lord of lords. Let us, in this

season of Advent, look up and forward to God’s love

and grace, and wherever we might be give God all glory

and thanks. Let us continue to commit ourselves to be

faithful followers, knowing that God’s faithfulness

toward us is unshakeable.

May God’s grace go with us all along the way.

Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

Children and Youth Rev. Jonathan Evans, Associate Pastor, [email protected] 3 From the Associate Pastor Rev. Jonathan Evans, Associate Pastor, [email protected]

…Water thrown, a young teen speaking in the dark,

people praying for each other, someone drawing

during the service for all to see, call and response

singing, really good bread, dramatic readings,

hand percussion with children, beautiful wall-sized

photographs of rainbows, two talented jazz

musicians that empower others, a four-year-old

boy announcing the kingdom of God coming…

Is this a random free association of ideas or a

different way to think of worship?

It’s Currents: Ancient Paths in New Waters.

While given imagination, we have a

strong liturgy that provides structure

from week to week. It’s a new way and

an old way of doing worship. It’s

worship that includes those who are the

youngest of children and some of our

eldest and wisest.

This service is to provide our children

understandings of worship, stories of the

Bible, the power of song and story,

leadership in worship, and the Lord’s

Supper. It’s a warm atmosphere where

the currents of the Spirit are unleashed.

We welcome all to come, see, sing, and

taste what is good!

Rev. Jonathan Evans

A meeting of the Congregation will take place

following the service on Sunday, December 2. Per Presbytery policy, a vote is required by the congregation to request that

Presbytery dissolve the relationship between the

First Presbyterian Church of Naples and Rev. Dr. Edward Thompson.

______________________________________

You are invited to join us for a farewell reception honoring Dr. Thompson

following the worship service on December 16.

4 Worship and Music Dr. Brice Gerlach, Director of Music Ministries, [email protected]

A Service of Lessons and Carols with the Chancel Choir Sunday, December 9, 2012 4:00 p.m. The service of Lessons and Carols follows the traditional pattern of prayers, lessons and music made popular by King’s College in Cambridge, England. Once again we enter into the well-known story of Christmas and are invited to hear the song of the angels, share in the wonder of the shepherds and resolve to be as persistent as the magi. Experience the hope and joy of rediscovering the miracle and wonder of Christmas as told through beautiful readings and cherished music of the season. Sing some of your favorite traditional carols such as O Come All Ye Faithful, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, and many others. Our Chancel Choir will offer such favorites as John Rutter’s Shepherd’s Pipe Carol and Christmas Lullaby, Harold Darke’s beautiful setting of In the Bleak Midwinter as well as Natalie Sleeth’s lovely Baby, What You Goin’ to Be? Come and remember the reason for the season! Mark your calendar now for this yuletide afternoon.

Handbell Choir

We will be participating in the

worship service on

Sunday, December 16

For more information please contact

our Director of Music,

Dr. Brice Gerlach

239.262.1311 ext. 239

[email protected]

Beginning January 6, 2013

We return to our

winter worship schedule

8:30 & 10:00 a.m.

in the Sanctuary

11:00 a.m. Currents

in the Chapel

Christian Education Kathleen Law, Administrative Assistant for C.E., [email protected]

Two For Ten ($), Bring A Friend! Presbyterian

Women look forward to welcoming members and

guests to our Christmas Gathering and Concert,

December 5, 2012 at noon in Spencer Hall.

Reservations can be made after worship, December 2

or by calling Katie Pennock at 239.263.6088 or Dorie

Tichenor at 239.775.4246. Lunch will be $7 for a

single ticket, but if you’re bringing a friend, a spouse,

a neighbor, a family member, someone you would just

like to get to know better, male or female, you can buy

two lunch tickets for $10.

At noon our music director

Dr. Brice Gerlach will

accompany his wife

Michele Byrd, a soprano

soloist with the

Philharmonic Center

Chorale and Chamber

Choir in a concert of beautiful Christmas music that

will surely inspire and put you in the Christmas spirit.

Our mission will be “Christmas Food on the Table”

and we are asked to double our donation to Collier

Harvest in the Feed the Hungry jars on each table.

The menu will be pork tenderloin, roasted red

potatoes, asparagus, slaw with apples & mandarin

oranges, and dessert. Appetizers and punch will be

served prior to the concert starting at 11:30 a.m. The

Grace Peace Circle will host.

Church Women United cordially invite you and your

friends to attend the annual GREEN TEA featuring

“A Heavenly Celebration”, presented by the children

of the Immokalee Child Care Center. It will take

place at Emmanuel Lutheran Church at 1:00 p.m.,

Friday, December 7. Please bring an unwrapped

Christmas present for a child from 4 weeks to 5 years

old. Gift suggestions are books, educational games,

toys and clothing. A special offering will go to

support the needs of the child care center. This is a

wonderful way to start the Christmas season. Enjoy

the program, stay for refreshments, and be a part of

this year’s celebration. Questions: contact Bonita

Krauss at 239.435.0462.

Thanks to the Faith Joy Circle who baked/served

cookies and punch in November.

The 2013 budget will be presented at the December

Gathering as well as the proposed Christmas mission

giving. Anyone with questions, please call Sharon

Irwin.

Date Circle Place Hostess Phone

Monday, December 10

7:00 p.m. Eventide 4405 Flamingo Dr. Lida Helmlinger 239.643.0013

Wednesday, December 12

1:00 p.m. Honor/Spencer 3535 Royal Wood Blvd. Dorothy Gomori 239.417.0107

Tuesday, December 18

9:30 a.m. Faith/Joy Church Parlor Marcia Kempers 239.262.7599

Wednesday, December 19

9:30 a.m. Love Church Parlor Mary VandeVoren 239.353.1620

9:30 a.m. Grace/Peace Youth Room Katie Geshay 239.592.5358

12:00 p.m. Sunshine 254 Edgemere Way Jean Somers 239.434.2168

December Circle Meetings

5

Children and Youth Christian Education Christian Education Kathleen Law, Administrative Assistant for C.E., [email protected] 6

Adult

Bible

Study

We meet each Sunday in Room 204 from 8:30 to

9:15 a.m. We are studying the book of John.

The 8:30 a.m. time will continue until the church

begins two services in January 2013. For more

information call Gretchen Oakley at 239.591.3467.

HUDDLE

The Huddle Men's Bible

Study group has

reconvened as we join

each other with a

continuation of our study

of the Pastoral Epistles.

We are sharing our

understanding of

1 Timothy to be followed

by Titus.

Please feel welcomed as

we meet each Thursday at

noon until 1:00 p.m. in Spencer Hall. Just bring your

own lunch and join us for this fellowship and study.

For more information, please contact Roger Miller at

239.774.5552.

Monday, January 7 Lifeline Screening - Details can be found on page 15.

Wednesday, January 9 Church On Wednesday begins - Three classes are offered for the five week semester.

Dinner will be available for $8 per person. Class selections include:

Civil War Victims Meet Old Testament Job Rev. Ray Merz

Questions of both head and heart abound as both Job from the Old Testament and Lincoln, his

wife, his assassin, and others wrestle with where to find justice in a world where injustice

prevails, and most of all where to find God.

Calvin College Extension! A series of lectures brought to us via DVD Rev. Lee Koning

Outstanding lectures by leading lecturers of our time with discussion to follow.

Jesus through Old Testament Eyes Rev. Jonathan Evans

We will attempt to look at Jesus through the window of the Old Testament. The hope of this class

is to expand our views and love of Jesus.

More information to follow in January Outreach and church bulletins.

Sunday, January 27 Season of Music Concert - Maxine Thevenot, organ, David Dash and Mary Bowden, trumpet

Monday, January 28 Blood Drive - One pint of blood can save up to three lives.

Kathleen Law, Administrative Assistant for C.E., [email protected]

7 Ashley Houk, Preschool Director, [email protected] Preschool

Change can be hard for lots of us. But

everywhere we turn…there’s change. We

notice that the children’s behavior changes

when the weather or time changes. We notice

that our staff’s behavior changes in response to

the children’s behavior. Change is inevitable.

Our Preschool staff is asked to change their teaching styles

as the early childhood education field evolves. Long ago, it

was believed that dittos (worksheets) were the best way to

teach children. Now, research shows that children learn best

through play when they are exposed to letters and numbers

during this play. Our staff is expected to continue to offer

activities that engage the children’s learning and enrich their

activities. We have to ensure there’s

a balance between child directed

play/learning and teacher directed.

We’ve observed a change in our

enrollment. Many factors can be

contributed to this slight decrease.

The economy has hit everyone hard.

Some parents that have been home

with their children are entering the

work force again. This may require

the parents to seek child care

arrangements based on a schedule

that we cannot accommodate.

Several of the local private schools

are now adding preschool programs.

A good many of our students

graduate from our program and go

on to enter these private schools. For

busy families, one drop off is much

more manageable than multiple drop

offs at separate locations. Even

though we’ve experienced a slight

drop, the Preschool has maintained

the staffing level as in previous years

and we are using this time to provide

more personal, one-on-one

instruction!

Recently, there’s been a big push in

the education field for the STEM

(Science, Technology, Engineering,

Mathematics) movement, and the

new discussion is pushing to add Art

to the mix. Our children are exposed

to computers and electronics/

technology at a much younger age

than ever before. We currently do

not have any computers in our

program as we have a limited

schedule and feel that some children

are exposed to too much screen time at home. We tend to

emphasize learning in coordination with socialization.

Channel 2 news recently aired a piece on a private school in

Charlotte County that provides iPads to their students so that

they could connect games with their activities at school.

Will we need to provide this experience to our children

soon? Only time will tell.

Through all this change, I’m proud to say that

the support of First Presbyterian Church and

Preschool families, we are still providing quality

care and learning to the Naples community. We

ask for your continued prayers and welcome you

to stop in and visit with us at any time!

Monday, January 7 Lifeline Screening - Details can be found on page 15.

Wednesday, January 9 Church On Wednesday begins - Three classes are offered for the five week semester.

Dinner will be available for $8 per person. Class selections include:

Civil War Victims Meet Old Testament Job Rev. Ray Merz

Questions of both head and heart abound as both Job from the Old Testament and Lincoln, his

wife, his assassin, and others wrestle with where to find justice in a world where injustice

prevails, and most of all where to find God.

Calvin College Extension! A series of lectures brought to us via DVD Rev. Lee Koning

Outstanding lectures by leading lecturers of our time with discussion to follow.

Jesus through Old Testament Eyes Rev. Jonathan Evans

We will attempt to look at Jesus through the window of the Old Testament. The hope of this class

is to expand our views and love of Jesus.

More information to follow in January Outreach and church bulletins.

Sunday, January 27 Season of Music Concert - Maxine Thevenot, organ, David Dash and Mary Bowden, trumpet

Monday, January 28 Blood Drive - One pint of blood can save up to three lives.

Calendar Sandy Poore, Facilities Manager, [email protected]

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THRUSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

2

8:30 a.m. Adult Bible Study

9:30 a.m. Communion Worship

10:30 a.m. Congregational Meeting

11:00 a.m. Currents

12:00 p.m. Cumberland Church

3

7:30 a.m. Blood Drive

4

7:00 a.m. Men’s Breakfast

Bible Study (separate location)

11:00 a.m. Alzheimer’s

Support Group

3:00 p.m. Finance Mtg.

4:00 p.m. Session

5

Poinsettia Order deadline

10:30 a.m. PW Coord. Team

12:00 p.m. PW Christmas

Concert

12:30 p.m. PW Gathering

12:00 p.m. Preschool Mtg.

5:00 p.m. Bell Ringers

7:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal

6

12:00 p.m. HUDDLE

6:00 p.m. Preschool Christmas

Sing-a-long

7

9:30 a.m. Sunday Cookie

Baking

12:00 p.m. Green Tea

(separate location)

9


9:30 a.m. Worship

11:00 a.m. Currents


4:00 p.m. Season of Music Concert

10

7:00 p.m. Eventide Circle

11



8:00 a.m. Facilities Mtg.

9:30 a.m. Books & Bagels

4:00 p.m. Mission Mtg.

4:00 p.m. Barnes & Noble

Preschool Fundraiser

5:30 p.m. Deacons Mtg.

12

9:00 a.m. Bible Facilitator Mtg.

1:00 p.m. Staff Christmas

Lunch

1:00 p.m. Honor/Spencer



13

10:00 a.m. Sew & Sews

12:00 p.m. HUDDLE

14


Baking

7:30 a.m. Preschool Staff

Christmas Breakfast

15 OUTREACH DEADLINE

16


9:30 a.m. Worship

Christmas Remembrances delivered

10:30 a.m. Farewell Reception

11:00 a.m. Currents


17

18



9:30 a.m. Faith/Joy Circle

10:30 Polar Express Literacy

Party for Preschoolers

19

9:30 a.m. Love Circle

9:30 a.m. Grace/Peace Circle

12:00 p.m. Sunshine Circle

Circle (separate location)


20

9:00 a.m. Santa visits Preschool

10:00 a.m. Visitation Care

Ministry

10:30 a.m. Jean Schaffer

memorial service

12:00 p.m. HUDDLE

21


Baking

Poinsettias delivered

22

9:00 a.m. Poinsettias

Arranged on Chancel

23


9:30 a.m. Worship

11:00 a.m. Currents


24 Christmas Eve 5:00 p.m. Family Worship

7:00 & 9:00 p.m.

Candlelight Worship

OFFICE CLOSED

25

Merry Christmas

26

27


28


Baking

29

30


9:30 a.m. Worship

11:00 a.m. Currents


31 New Years Eve This calendar does not necessarily include all events that are scheduled at the church. For additional information, call or visit the website www.fpcnaples.org.

Deadline for monthly Outreach is the fifteenth of the month prior to that edition. Submit all items to [email protected].

If submissions are not received prior to the deadline, we cannot guarantee that your article will be considered for publication for that month.

8

9 Sandy Poore, Facilities Manager, [email protected] Sandy Poore, Facilities Manager, [email protected]

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THRUSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

2


9:30 a.m. Communion Worship

10:30 a.m. Congregational Meeting

11:00 a.m. Currents


3

7:30 a.m. Blood Drive

4



11:00 a.m. Alzheimer’s

Support Group

3:00 p.m. Finance Mtg.

4:00 p.m. Session

5

Poinsettia Order deadline

10:30 a.m. PW Coord. Team

12:00 p.m. PW Christmas

Concert

12:30 p.m. PW Gathering

12:00 p.m. Preschool Mtg.



6

12:00 p.m. HUDDLE

6:00 p.m. Preschool Christmas

Sing-a-long

7


Baking

12:00 p.m. Green Tea

(separate location)

1 9:00 a.m. Communion

prep

9:00 a.m. Decorate

Sanctuary

8

9


9:30 a.m. Worship

11:00 a.m. Currents


4:00 p.m. Season of Music Concert

10

7:00 p.m. Eventide Circle

11



8:00 a.m. Facilities Mtg.

9:30 a.m. Books & Bagels

4:00 p.m. Mission Mtg.

4:00 p.m. Barnes & Noble

Preschool Fundraiser

5:30 p.m. Deacons Mtg.

12

9:00 a.m. Bible Facilitator Mtg.

1:00 p.m. Staff Christmas

Lunch

1:00 p.m. Honor/Spencer



13


12:00 p.m. HUDDLE

14


Baking

7:30 a.m. Preschool Staff

Christmas Breakfast

15 OUTREACH DEADLINE

16


9:30 a.m. Worship

Christmas Remembrances delivered

10:30 a.m. Farewell Reception

11:00 a.m. Currents


17

18



9:30 a.m. Faith/Joy Circle

10:30 Polar Express Literacy

Party for Preschoolers

19

9:30 a.m. Love Circle

9:30 a.m. Grace/Peace Circle

12:00 p.m. Sunshine Circle

Circle (separate location)


20

9:00 a.m. Santa visits Preschool

10:00 a.m. Visitation Care

Ministry

10:30 a.m. Jean Schaffer

memorial service

12:00 p.m. HUDDLE

21


Baking

Poinsettias delivered

22

9:00 a.m. Poinsettias

Arranged on Chancel

23


9:30 a.m. Worship

11:00 a.m. Currents


24 Christmas Eve 5:00 p.m. Family Worship

7:00 & 9:00 p.m.

Candlelight Worship

OFFICE CLOSED

25

Merry Christmas

26

27


28


Baking

29

30


9:30 a.m. Worship

11:00 a.m. Currents


31 New Years Eve This calendar does not necessarily include all events that are scheduled at the church. For additional information, call or visit the website www.fpcnaples.org.

Deadline for monthly Outreach is the fifteenth of the month prior to that edition. Submit all items to [email protected].

If submissions are not received prior to the deadline, we cannot guarantee that your article will be considered for publication for that month.

Feed the 5,000 Luke 9:10-17

The food we gather in December will be given to Youth Haven. Youth Haven provides support to children and families, with programs such as shelter, counseling, and support. Our donations help make it possible for Youth Haven to serve more than 2,400 children and family members. Right now, the need has never been greater.

Wish List: 2 cans of meat 2 cans of vegetables 1 pound box of rice 2 pounds of pasta 2 baby food items peanut butter and jelly macaroni and cheese fruit cups, applesauce, or juice boxes for children

If you can help, please pick up a Publix bag from an usher as you leave the Sanctuary on the first Sunday of the month, and bring your donation on the second Sunday. If you prefer, checks are welcome and should be payable to "First Presbyterian Church" with the memo marked "Feed the 5,000."

10 Preschool John Oakley, Mission Committee Chair, [email protected] Mission

Christmas

is almost at our door just waiting to

spring upon us with special plans, fun events and an opportunity for each of us to help feed our hungry world and have a great time together doing it.

This year our church Christmas Eve Offering is going to an organization called Meals of Hope—an exciting new

approach to help the hungry families in our community.

First, we will need your generous contribution to the offering on Christmas Eve and then, in late February or early March we will need many hands, young, old and in between, to fill bags with a nutritious meal for a family of four.

This meal will fill four hungry mouths for only $.20. Yes, you heard correctly, a family of four for only $.20. We will need generous pocketbooks on Christmas Eve to spread the hope far and wide. If you will be away for Christmas, you don’t have to wait to be part of the fun. Just write Meals of Hope on the memo line of your check and drop it in the plate on a Sunday before you leave. More news will be coming but until then Merry Christmas and God’s Blessings!

Your Mission Committee

by Gretchen Oakley, Mission Committee Secretary

I really picked a winner this month for our “Mission Action

-First Pres Style.” Betty Plum is not only a volunteer

extraordinaire but she can write. I am going to let her tell her

story in her own words with only a footnote from me. This

footnote is coming at the beginning of the piece. Remember

that all the while she is working at St. Matthew’s House at

various times she can be found on her knees digging in the

dirt of the Naples Botanical Gardens. Here is her story:

When I attended my first Mission

Committee meeting in the Fall of

2008, Van Ellison, CEO of St.

Matthew’s House, was there to

speak about the mission, the

history, the principles, and the

needs of St. Matthew’s House. I

decided then and there that that

was a place where I wanted to be

involved. I took a tour, had lunch,

and signed up to volunteer. Van’s

wife, Lisa, called soon after to ask if

I would come in to work on

organizing the Christmas gifts for

residents and wrap toys for the

children at Wolf Apartments. After

we had finished, I ended up in the

kitchen stirring a pot on the stove and

washing pans. Since that time, I have

gone in every Monday morning to help prepare lunch and

dinner.

I was familiar with soup kitchens because my church up

north prepared and served dinner once a month, but St.

Matthew’s is different. The residents actually have a

permanent bed and a place for their personal possessions.

They must agree to abide by the policies of SMH, submit to

random testing for drugs and alcohol, and be a productive

member of the SMH community, working to earn their

room and board. In return, they receive professional

support for addictions, if needed, life skills, and job

placement. The homeless people who live in the woods are

fed lunch and dinner at a facility next to the Methodist

Church on Airport Road. SMH has a food pantry and fills

bags to be distributed. On holidays, dinner is served to all

who show up, and bags of holiday food are distributed to

the needy at Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Tim and I serve on ‘minor’ holidays and leave

Thanksgiving and Christmas to folks who choose those

special days to volunteer. One of my jobs on Monday

mornings is to put away food that has been donated by

supermarkets. Sweetbay and Trader Joes are particularly

generous to SMH with fresh meat and fish, cheese, and

produce, as well as bread and desserts. Publix also

contributes.

Over the years, I have cheered when

the residents I knew personally

succeeded in overcoming their bad

decisions or unfortunate circumstances

in life and headed off to a productive

life. I have also wept when someone I

cared about lost his/her way and left

the support of SMH to return to the

ways of the world. Some times they

have returned to try again. Some times

they are just gone.

I remember one particular Monday

morning when the staff was with a

young man I had not seen before.

He was in jail overnight for a minor

infraction and had been brought to

SMH on his release. His wife and family

were in northern Florida and he had no

means to get home. SMH provided a bus ticket for his

return and he accepted it, tears in his eyes, overwhelmed

by the goodness shown to him. I just knew in my heart

that somewhere down the line he would show kindness to

someone else as repayment for the kindness that had been

shown to him.

There is a wonderful spirit among the volunteers, staff and

residents who work in the kitchen, with hugs all around to

start off the work day. We each understand what has to be

done, and we set about to do it. The group joins hands for

prayer before the diners arrive for lunch and takes turns

giving thanks.

Betty really says all that needs to be said about getting

involved in Mission Action. It fulfills so many human needs

and unlocks spiritual blessings for all who take part. Mission

Action is available to all. Why not try “First Pres Style

Mission Action” and take part in the blessings.

Merry Christmas and God’s blessings on us all!

11 Preschool John Oakley, Mission Committee Chair, [email protected] Mission

Betty working at St. Matthew’s house with

Executive Chef, Eric Delano

12 Rev. Jonathan Evans, Associate Pastor [email protected]

Christmas Remembrances will be delivered on Sunday, December 16.

If you're available to deliver a gift after worship, please pick up the addressed gifts in the Sanctuary after the service.

What kind of man would receive the care

of a Stephen Minister?

A man like Adam, who was cut off from all that gave

meaning to life and needed someone to remind him of

God’s promise.

A man like Noah, who witnessed the destruction of

everything around him and needed someone to wait

with him for a new day.

A man like Abraham, who had to leave everything he

knew and loved behind him and needed someone to

journey with him to a new life.

A man like Moses, who faced great opposition and

needed a companion to support him and speak on his

behalf.

A man like David, who grieved the death of a wayward

child and needed a shepherd's care.

A man like Elijah, who thought he was all alone and

needed a still, small voice to encourage him.

A man like Job, who lost everything and needed

someone to silently endure his pain with him.

A man like Peter, who found himself in over his head

and needed the strong hand of a faithful friend.

A man like Paul, who knew the unending distress of a

thorn in the flesh and needed someone to rejoice when

he rejoiced and to weep when he wept.

A man like Jesus, who knew intense disappointment,

sorrow, grief, rejection and loneliness and needed an

angel of God to minister to him.

A man like you.

What kind of woman would receive the care

of a Stephen Minister?

A woman like Sarah, who faced a major change in life

at an advanced age and needed someone to listen to

both her joy and apprehension.

A woman like Hagar, who was abandoned along with

her child and needed someone to offer her hope and

remind her of God’s presence.

A woman like Hannah, who struggled with her

inability to bear a child and needed someone with

whom to share her sadness and pain.

A woman like Naomi, who had lost her loved ones and

needed someone to hear her sorrow and pain.

A woman like Ruth, who left everything that was

familiar to her and needed someone to journey with her

in her new life.

A woman like Esther, who was faced with a major

decision and needed someone who could listen to her

concerns and offer encouragement.

A woman like Mary of Nazareth, who lived both the

joys and struggles of having an exceptional child and

needed someone to help her sort out the pondering of

her heart.

A woman like Martha, who was burdened by the

demands of daily life and needed someone to help her

regain sight of what was most important.

A women like Mary Magdalene, who received healing

from inner turmoil and needed someone to walk with

her as she built a new life.

A woman like you.

If you would like to know more about how a Stephen Minister could help, please see or call Rev. Jonathan Evans

239.262.1311 ext. 224 or [email protected]

In Memoriam Doug Leader

November 4

Marilyn Huntington November 7

Elizabeth Mitchell November 12

Congregational Care

13 Finance Michele Martin, Accountant, [email protected]

Financial Report

Offerings Budgeted through (the month) October………….…..$969,788

Actual Offerings through (the month) October…………………$952,908

Actual Offerings are less than Budget by………………………$ 16,880

Actual Expenses are less than Budget by………………………$ 73,843

If you have particular questions in relation to church budget and expenses, please speak to a member of the Finance

Committee or contact Michele Martin, our church accountant, 239.262.1311, ext. 242. The finance committee

members are: Lloyd Doerflinger (chair), Terry Brennan, Jan Gazdic, Russ Kempker, Bob King, Karen Martin,

Bill Stafford and Tom Stevens.

YEAR END CONTRIBUTIONS

PLEASE NOTE:

All 2012 contributions MUST be either

postmarked by December 31, 2012 or received

in the church office by 2:00 p.m. on December

31, 2012 in order to claim a charitable contribution

deduction for 2012. As we approach the end of

2012, persons who make year end contributions

might want to consider donations of stock. Please

contact Michele Martin at 239.262.1311 ext. 242

or [email protected] if you wish to make a

stock donation.

Session Hansen Long, Clerk of Session, [email protected]

The Session are presently making plans for a good and

smooth transition as we move into 2013. A Transition

Team, of Hansen Long - Session Clerk, and Barbara

Church, Roger Miller and Susan Stafford - Elders, is

working with Presbytery to oversee the following:

Edward’s departure and the “dissolution of call,” pulpit

supply through January and the appointment of an

Interim Search Committee. The latter is a committee

appointed by Session and will be named at the next

regular meeting of Session, which is on December 4.

Church activities are already planned through Easter

and these plans will remain in place.

Church on Wednesday classes resume January 9 and

will run for 5 weeks. Then we will celebrate Ash

Wednesday and the beginning of Lent.

Holy Week Services, as in previous years, will be on

Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Morning.

Stewardship Season, as in past years, will begin in

January and at present Consecration Sunday is set for

February 10.

The Session and church staff are in a good position to

oversee a smooth transition and to best care for the

ongoing life and witness of the congregation. The

congregation will be kept informed as plans develop.

There is every reason to be optimistic that with your

participation and prayers the congregation will be cared

for and our life and witness can continue to flourish.

At this time, if you have questions it is best to direct

them to the Session Clerk, Hansen Long at

239.331.4084.

A Time of Transition! What’s Next?

mailto:[email protected]

News and Events Send all publication submissions to: [email protected] 14

The David Turner family wishes to thank everyone

involved in the memorial service, refreshments and

donations. My father was grateful for the many

friendships he made over the years and would have

appreciated your efforts.

Most sincerely,

Debra Turner Schearer

Grateful thanks to Sandy Johnson for her skills in

stitching the colorful banners in the Chapel for the

new Currents worship service.

I would like to thank everyone for coming to

Thanksgiving here at the church and I hope you all

enjoyed the day. Without all the volunteers I could not

have served such a great meal. THANK YOU ALL for

the help in making Thanksgiving a great success. We

always need Volunteers to make things happen around

the church.

God Bless,

Mike Rutoski

FPC Blood Drive Monday, December 3 7:30 a.m.—2:00 p.m.

Sign up in Spencer Hall

after the worship service or call

Mary & Al VandeVoren at 239.353.1620

The Giving Tree

Each year we decorate a tree in Spencer Hall with tags that have children’s names of migrant farm workers at Six L’s Farms in Naples. If you would like to purchase a gift for a needy child, please take a tag from the tree. We ask that all gifts be wrapped and tagged securely. Some gift ideas are: learning toys, dolls (ethnic), DVD’s, CD’s, Target or Walmart gift cards, books, puzzles, roller skates, skate boards and games. Gifts should have an approximate value of $20. Please return the wrapped gift by December 14.

YOUR TABLE

IS WAITING

Dinner for 8 will be back on the calendar for January, February,

and March, scheduled for the fourth Friday each of those months.

Where? At church member/friends’ homes

When? January 25, February 22, March 22 at 6:00 p.m.

Who? All members and friends are invited to

share a dish and join the fellowship

Why? For the opportunity to get to know

folks better over a home-cooked meal and a glass of wine

Reservations will be taken in Spencer Hall on Sunday mornings beginning December 2

or by calling Betty Plum (239.732.8799)

or emailing her at [email protected].

Don’t succumb to the January blues! Keep the holiday fun going

by participating in the dinners.

Light up a life!

mailto:[email protected]

News and Events Send all publication submissions to: [email protected] News and Events Send all publication submissions to: [email protected] 15

Poinsettias for Christmas You are invited to help beautify our sanctuary for Christmas by purchasing a beautiful

poinsettia. A list of contributors and their dedications will be noted in our Christmas bulletins.

Please PRINT the information requested below and submit this form to the church office to

the attention of Sharman with your check for $20.00 made payable to First Presbyterian Church.

Please write “Poinsettia” in the lower left check memo area. All orders must be received in the

church office no later than Wednesday, December 5. Please use one form per dedication.

You may pick up your poinsettia after the 9:00 p.m. Christmas Eve service.

NAME: ________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________

PHONE: _____________________ AMOUNT ENCLOSED: ______________

PLEASE CHECK ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:

Given in Memory of _____________________________________________

Given in Honor of _______________________________________________

Monday, January 7, 2013

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

in Spencer Hall Call 1.800.324.9458 for an appointment

Pre-registration is REQUIRED Screenings available:

1. Stroke/Carotid Artery Screening $60

Ultrasound scan of the carotid arteries that screens for buildup of fatty plaque—a leading cause of strokes.

2. Heart Rhythm Screening (Atrial Fibrillation) $60

A quick and easy test using EKG electrodes placed on the arms and legs.

3. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening $60

Ultrasound screening for an abdominal aneurysm (enlargement) that could lead to a ruptured aorta.

4. Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening $60

Evaluates for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in the lower extremities.

5. Osteoporosis Risk Assessment $35

Ultrasound screens the heel for bone mass density. Osteoporosis is painless and silent in its early stages.

Package 1: Stroke, Vascular Disease & Heart Rhythm—4 tests for only $139

Package 2: Add an Osteoporosis Screening for only $10 more—5 tests for only $149

Blood Tests available:

Cholesterol $45 TSH Screening for Thyroid Disorders $45

Glucose (blood sugar) $25 Prostate Cancer (PSA) $45

Liver Enzymes $35

Non-Profit Org.

Postage PAID

Naples, FL

34102

Permit No. 8

First Presbyterian Church of Naples 250 Sixth Street South Naples, FL 34102 www.fpcnaples.org 239.262.1311 or fax 239.262.1275

December Outreach

Documents

Transcript of December Outreach