December 12, 2012 • Volume 27, No. 24

Theologian Mary EllenAshcroft said, “To get ready forChristmas, God undressed.God stripped off his finery andappeared — how embarrassing— naked on the day he wasborn. God rips off medals ofrank, puts aside titles, honors,talents and appears in hisbirthday suit.” In other words,the Christmas story is about a

God who came to us in a disturbingly human way,travelling a distance longer and giving up more than wecan imagine in order to draw near to us. The NiceneCreed puts it so beautifully when it says, “For us and forour salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnateby the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and becametruly human.”

This notion of God would have offended not onlymost first century Jewish sensibilities about God, but alsothose of the Graeco-Roman world into which Jesus wasborn. They knew that the gods dwelt on high, above andbeyond this mundane world where humans struggle andsuffer. C.S. Lewis speaks of the Incarnation in this way:“God could, had he pleased, have been incarnate in a manof iron nerves, the Stoic sort who lets no sigh escape fromhim. Of his great humility he chose to be incarnate in aman of delicate sensibilities who wept at the grave ofLazarus and sweated blood in Gethsemane.” In otherwords, Jesus’ mission was not to become big and to rulefrom a position of strength and power. Rather, Jesusbecame small in order to work in the midst of weaknessand suffering. God knew better than we ever could thatthe best way to heal this broken world was not inoverpowering it, but in loving it.

Yet in becoming small and weak, like one of us, Jesusforever lifted up and transformed what it means to behuman. By becoming one of us, Jesus took up our cause,making our cause God’s great cause. Irenaeus (circa 130 to

200 A.D.), that great early church father, called this “thewonderful exchange.” "He became what we are, in orderthat we might become what he is.” Everything God everhoped or dreamed for human beings was present in Jesus.In a sense, what Christmas tells us is that if you want toknow what it means to be a genuine, authentic humanbeing, to stand and live for what is right in the world, thenlook to Jesus. Listen to Jesus. Follow Jesus. For Jesus showsus what we can be, what God put it in each of usto become.

The Church calls this the doctrine of the Incarnation,in Latin the Assumptio Carnis. But Christmas is far fromonly being a doctrine of the Church, however importantthe central claim of Christmas may be to the life of theChurch. More than a doctrine, Christmas is an event. Anduntil Christmas becomes an event in our lives, until wesomehow open our hearts so that God is born in us andcomes alive in us, then we will miss it completely. Isn’t thisthe message of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol?Ebenezer Scrooge discovers that Christmas is somethingthat must happen in him, and the event of Christmasforever changes his life. It saves Scrooge from himself. Thisis what I want for everyone in the life of First PresbyterianChurch! I want for Christmas to happen within you.Christmas is way too important, way too crucial, way toojoyful for you to miss it.

I love the words Martin Luther penned in his belovedChristmas carol:

Ah, dearest Jesus, holy Child,Make Thee a bed, soft, undefiledWithin my heart, that it may beA quiet chamber kept for Thee.

Merry Christmas and Peace to You!

Todd JonesPastor

My Dear Friends,

First Presbyterian Church

published bi-weekly for the members and friends of the church

First Edition

The Mission of First Presbyterian Church, NashvilleTo know Christ, to make Him known and to exhibit His love

through worship, education and service.

SUNDAY

DECEMBER 30, 2012

Sermon“Project 252”

Scripture ReadingsLuke 2:41-52

I Samuel 2:18-20, 26

Mark DeVriesAssociate Pastor

3RD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

DECEMBER 16, 2012

Sermon“The Characters ofChristmas: Mary”

Scripture ReadingsZechariah 9:9-10

Luke 1:39-56

Todd JonesPastor

4TH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

DECEMBER 23, 2012

Sermon“The Characters ofChristmas: Joseph”

Scripture ReadingsMicah 5:2-5

Matthew 1:18-25

Todd JonesPastor

SUNDAY

JANUARY 6, 2013

Sermon“What Will Be New

in 2013”

Scripture ReadingsEcclesiastes 1:1-11

II Corinthians 5:16-21

Todd JonesPastor

SympathyThe First Presbyterian Church family

extends prayers and sympathy to thefollowing people and to other membersof their family during their time of loss.

Dollye Clayton on the death of her sister-in-laws, Ruth Clayton, who died October 24, andBarbara Shaw Clayton, who died November 9.Sympathy to Tim & Beth Scott Clayton Amos.

Michael & Suzan Hindman on the death of Suzan’smother, Jaymie Sue Drummond McCorkle, who diedNovember 6. Sympathy to Michele & Russ Emrath, Jacob& Natalie Emrath and Melissa Hindman.

Gordon & Celia Denney on the death of Celia’s father,Arthur Forrest Jordan, Sr., who died November 7.Sympathy to Davis & Katherine Denney.

Hugh & Gail Welch on the death of Hugh’s sister,Elizabeth Jo Dallas, who died November 8. Sympathy toBobby & Kathy Rolfe & Robert, Carly & Leslie Rolfe.

Tom & Sally Davis on the death of Tom’s mother,Lenna Coles Davis, who died November 14. Sympathyto Ben & Rebecca Davis, Hudson Davis & Jimmy & EllenDavis West.

Mark & Emily Eberle on the death of Mark’s sister,Helen Eberle Daly, who died November 15. Sympathyto Kathryn Eberle & Jeff Eberle.

Dirk & Suzie DeYoung on the death of Dirk’sgrandfather, Vernon Tarrell, who died November 18.Sympathy to Avery & Barrett DeYoung.

If any member of the church desires the Christian supportof a Stephen Minister, call Sandra Randleman at 298-9502.Stephen Ministers are trained lay ministers of the church.

In the presence of family, the congregationof First Presbyterian Church and God, thefollowing persons claimed God’s covenant promisethrough the Sacrament of Baptism.

Laura & Bill Alexander IV presented their son,William Polk Alexander V, for baptism on November 11.Assisting Elder was Nan Russell.

Shih-zen Benedict Cheng received the sacrament ofbaptism on November 18. Assisting Elder was PamShampain.

Kristin & Whit Wilson presented their daughter,Amelia Lenahan Wilson, for baptism on November 25.Assisting Elder was Helen Dale.

The Sacrament of Baptism

CongratulationsThe First Presbyterian Church family

congratulates these members.Lauren & Matt Hancock on the birthof their daughter, Ella Harper

Hancock, who was born on November 8. Congratulationsto Becky & Stuart Campbell, Molly & Amy Campbell &Matt Pearson.

Holiday Office HoursThe church offices will be closed for Christmas on

December 24 and 25, and will be closed for New Year’s onDecember 31 and January 1.

Kenya & Rwanda July 2013Dates: July 17-August 2Cost: $5,000; $1,500 deposit due December 31; requiresvaccinations.Brief Details: Construction on churches in both countriesas well as visits to mission projects supported by FPCNashville; Kenyan safari included; children must be age 12 toparticipate; limit of 14 FPC members; spaces reserved whenfull deposit paid.Trip Leaders: Dr. Bob LaGrone & Sandra Randleman

Questions?Contact Patricia Heim in the Missions Office (298-9593 or

pheim@fpcnashville.org) if you are interested in learning moreor would like an application form for a mission trip. Onlineregistration for trips is available from the Register/Give link

on the church homepage (www.fpcnashville.org).

Scholarship Assistance is available to FPC membersfor all FPC-sponsored trips by contacting Sandra

(298-9502 or srandleman@fpcnashville.org).

Read about missions at FPC online — mission trips abroad,local mission opportunities, stories, pictures and more.

Visit http://missions.fpcnashville.org

Discover Alaska with Membersand Friends of FPC

Join us on a 15-day cruise and land tour adventure,June 10-25, 2013. Highlights include two nights inDenali National Park, tours of Victoria, Vancouver andFairbanks, a seven day deluxe cruise of the 1,100-mileinside passage, including Ketchikan, Juneau and GlacierBay National Park, and a two day tour of Victoria andVancouver. For information, please contact Sandra(srandleman@fpcnashville.org or 298-9502) or Brenda(bgeise@fpcnashville.org or 298-9515).

Women’s Bible StudyThis Bible Study meets from 7:00-7:45 A.M. on

Thursdays in the Cheek House dining room to studyThe Lord’s Prayer. All women are invited to attendthis Bible study led by Sandra Randleman. Forinformation, contact Sandra (298-9502 orsrandleman@fpcnashville.org).

Tuesday Morning Men’sBible Study

All men are invited to gather for a time of prayer,Bible study and fellowship, led by Sandra Randleman.Meets on Tuesdays from 7:00-7:45 A.M. in the CheekHouse dining room, and is studying I and II Timothyand Titus. For information, contact Sandra (298-9502 orsrandleman@fpcnashville.org).

Handbells 101: A WinterWednesdays Option...Learn (orremember how) to Ring Handbells

Have you enjoyed hearing the bells in worship?Have you found yourself thinking, “I’d really like tolearn how to play someday?” Or “I used to ring yearsago. It’d be fun to do it again, but I’d need a refreshercourse.” If so, here is your opportunity!

■ Three Wednesday evenings: January 16 and 23 andFebruary 6 (January 30 off for an orchestral rehearsalin the sanctuary)

■ 6:00-7:00 P.M. in the balcony in the sanctuary■ For adults, youth and children (4th grade and above)■ Bekah Caruso, leader

Come with your son or daughter. Come with a buddy.Come on your own. Come! Call Daphne in theMusic Office (298-9517), or email Bekah Caruso(bcaruso@bellsouth.net) to reserve your spot.Please respond by Wednesday, January 9.

Helping a Loved One with aSerious Mental Illness?

As they say on the airlines, always place theoxygen on your face first, before helping someoneelse. When you have a loved one with a serious mentalillness whom you want to help, take steps to keepyourself healthy first.

• Share what you are going through with people you can trust.• There are limits to what you can do, you cannot make your

loved one behave in a certain way.• Be honest with yourself about how much you can handle.• Accept help from others.• Try to keep normal routines for yourself and the your family.• Keep living and enjoying your own life.• Seek counseling for yourself and family members if needed.• Join a support group.

A Stephen Minister may be able to give the support you need.They are members of our church who are trained to providelistening care to people who are hurting. To learn more, callSandra Randleman (298-9502).

Young Adults HappeningsDuring the Week

Young Adult Small Group (ages 22 and up) meetsTuesdays from 7:00-8:00 P.M., at the home of Racheland Lipscomb Davis (3703B Woodmont Boulevard).The group is currently studying The Bible fromScratch: The New Testament. Newcomers are welcome! Theology on Tap (ages 22 to 35) is a group ofyoung adults who gather each Thursday from 6:00-8:00 P.M. to discuss Christian theology as it relates toour daily lives. The December location is at the homeof Decker Chaney (906 14th Avenue South).

Sunday School Classes:• Alethia — Ages 18-25 are welcome! Alethia is aBible study for college students and young 20sfocused on digging deeply into the truths of scripturein Romans and expecting God to transform our livesthrough the Gospel. Alethia meets each week at 9:45A.M. in the Tyne House. • Connections is a new class that intentionallywelcomes participants throughout the many lifestages of young adulthood — single, married,divorced; studying, working, parenting, etc. Thediscussion-based group is using the Feasting on theWord curriculum that connections worship andeducation by utilizing a commentary-based style toopen each Sunday’s lectionary passages. The classmeets at 9:30 A.M. in the Bryant Conference Room. • Foundations seeks to provide a safe network ofsupport for mutual encouragement and exhortationtowards lives and marriages based on Biblicalfoundations. The class will discuss a variety ofmarriage topics including: conflict resolution,finances, in-laws, communication and worship.Participants range from their mid-20s to mid-30s.The class meets at 9:30 A.M. in Room 101 on theLower Level of the Enrichment Center (across fromthe horse barn). • Friends in Faith is a team-taught casual discussionclass that covers a variety of topics from Bible Studiesto healthy relationships to Christian parenting. Classmembers seek out a lively balance of study, missionand social opportunities. Participants are primarilymarried couples in their 30s and early 40s. They meetat 9:30 A.M. in the Oak Hill School UpstairsClassrooms, L-201.

For more information about FPC’s young adult ministry,email Catherine Foster at cfoster@fpcnashville.org. For collegeministry, email Linda Morphis (lmorphis@fpcnashville.org).

One Big Night of Dancingon January 9…Kicks Off ourWinter Wednesdays!

“We were a family with four children, and everybody wasgoing in different directions, and we wanted to do thingstogether — that’s how we got started,” Evelyn said. “Glenn and Iwere leading an international folk dance group in Richmond,Virgina and our children were interested in dancing, but theywere not of age to participate. . . [W]e thought we’d like to dosomething that wasn’t being done.”

Glenn Bannerman, 85, and Evelyn, 84, his wife of 64 years,started the Family Dance Camp in 1969 when they were livingin Richmond, and Glenn was professor of recreation and outdooreducation at the Presbyterian School of Christian Education.

“It does sound a little suspect, doesn’t it?” Craig Bannermansaid of the third-generation grandchildren. “Teens embracing acamp that does folk dancing and where you make costumes outof newspaper and tape, watch silly puppet shows and listen tocountry music? But I swear it’s true. They not only endure it,they truly love it and look forward to it every year.”

First Presbyterian’s own Bekah and Bill Caruso have beencarrying on the Bannerman tradition for decades themselves,leading multigenerational dances for churches and camps. Theywill bring their music and special PA system to the EnrichmentCenter on Wednesday,January 9, for one bignight of dancing —big-circle squaredancing, novelty dancesand line dances. It maysound suspect, but youwill be amazed at thefun for folks of all ages.No one is too youngand no one is too old.You don’t need tobring a partner. You justneed to come ready tojoin the circle.

Dinner will be served in Courtenay Hall beginning from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M., with dancing in the Enrichment Center until7:15 P.M. Registration details for this event and other WinterWednesday programs will follow soon. In the meantime, dust offthose dancing shoes and mark this date on your calendar!

Legacy of Changing Lives...Monroe Harding

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38

Dear Friends at First Presbyterian Church,

My name is Noelline Moukeba, and I have been a member of FPC for five years now sincemy father and I arrived in America from Central Africa. I graduated from John Overton HighSchool in 2010, and it was during that summer that members of this church introduced me to aprogram called Monroe Harding.

Many of you know about the residential programs of Monroe Harding at their Glendale Lanefacility, but I am part of their off-campus Independent Living program. This program servesyoung adults like me as well as those who might otherwise become homeless or were formerlyin foster care but are now too old for state custody.

This program has provided me affordable housing near Nashville State where I am enrolled studying banking andfinance. Up to two other roommates and I live independently but have regular access to Monroe Harding staff to guideus into adulthood. We are required to have a job and attend school as part of this Independent Living program.

I love what this program is all about because of the chance they have given me and many other youth in Nashville.I do not know what I would have done if this program did not exist. I thank God every day for His blessings, thisincredible opportunity and a very wonderful society in which we live. I am taking advantage of this amazing blessing todo everything that I am supposed to do so that I will be ready when the time comes for my next big step in life.

I am thankful to all the donors of Monroe Harding and ask for their continued prayers and support. I encourageothers to get involved. Because of these generous donors, the youth at Monroe Harding and I have a chance to do andexperience things that would not have been possible on our own.

Thank you & God bless — Noelline Moukeba

Your Pledge Changes LivesDear Friends,

Before I begin, please allow me a fewbrief moments to wish you the very bestthat Christmas has to offer. As you gothrough the next weeks and you see ourchurch home transformed, be remindedas Paul says to the Romans in 12:2,“Do not conform to this world, but betransformed by the renewing of yourmind.” Let us all take this time to renewour commitment to and be reminded who we serve — Jesus Christ.

I would like to update you on the stewardship campaign. Since 2010, we mail out roughly 1,800 pledge cards and onaverage we receive 775 pledges. Also, through the first 8 weeks of the campaign versus the previous three, we are a little shy ofthe number of pledge cards, but the great news is that our average pledge through the same time period has increased. Theamount of pledges is holding up versus the previous three years very well. Using the average of returned pledge cards, we haveroughly another 175 cards that still could be coming and my prayer is that those remaining will be at or near our averagepledge that we are showing for this year. If this holds true, we should see our pledge amount be around $4,000,000!

I was reminded today that our true mission is not dollars and cents, but souls. I received an e-mail from my friends inJamaica counting the days until we arrive to renew our friendship. I am reminded that without the generosity of thiscongregation, lives would not be touched and lives would not be changed.

Grace and Peace to You All — Nathan Brandon, Stewardship Chair

Number of pledge cards mailed

Number of pledges received as of week 8

Amount of pledges received as of week 8

Average pledge as of week 8

Total number of pledges received

Total amount of pledges received

Average pledge amount

1,850

590

$3,100,809

$5,256

1,820

612

$3,202,102

$5,232

765

$3,691,296$4,825

1,854

680

$3,375,200

$4,964

788

$3,747,005$4,755

1,807

603

$3,091,311

$5,127

772

$3,668,531$4,752

2013Stewardship Year 2012 2011 2010

Room In The Inn MinistryVolunteer Needs

There’s still time for you to join us on Wednesday nights to sharethe gift of hospitality to 14 homeless men here on the FPC campus.The men spend the night in the Cannon Center (north side ofcampus near pool) receiving a hot dinner, an opportunity to laundertheir clothing, take a hot shower and enjoy the ministry of presenceand hospitality from members of the congregation who eat dinneror spend the night with them.

Look over the volunteer roles below and choose a date to servewith your family, friends or even a committee or Sunday Schoolclass. See the sign-up board in Courtenay Hall and add your nameon the week you wish to serve.

List of Volunteer Opportunities for Room In The Inn

• Weekly Captain: The captain’s job is to recruit volunteers to fill the various tasks required for a particularWednesday night.

• Van Driver(s): Pick up guests using FPC bus from Room In The Inn campus off 8th Avenue South and drivethem to FPC; return guests to Room In The Inn Thursday morning.

• Overnight Hosts: Two men are needed to spend the night with the guests and prepare a microwave breakfastthe next morning.

• Breakfast and Lunch Food: Donate assembled sandwiches and soft fruit for lunches and also microwave-readybreakfast food.

• Laundry: Wash bed linens, towels and washcloths used by the guests and return to the Cannon Center by thefollowing Monday.

• Dinner Food: Dinners are provided most nights by FPC, however, volunteers are needed to prepare dinners onselected Wednesday nights when there is no meal service at FPC. This year those nights include December 26,January 2, February 13 (Ash Wednesday), March 20 and March 27 (Spring Break weeks). Plan on enough food toserve 18-20 people including extra helpings for the guests and FPC volunteers.

Contact our church Room In The Inn Co-Chairs George Armistead (george@newbusinessnashville.com or 364-6000) orHal Sauer (hs71@att.net or 243-0167) if you have questions, need further information or would like to plan a special eventfor one night of Room In The Inn.

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together andrunning over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will bemeasured to you.” Luke 6:38, NIV

A New Inquirers’ Class BeginsAn Inquirers’ Class will be held for persons

interested in uniting with First Presbyterian Churchas members or who wish to obtain moreinformation about FPC and the Presbyteriandenomination. Persons considering membership areencouraged to take the Inquirers’ Class before joiningFirst Presbyterian Church. The class will be held for fiveconsecutive Sundays, January 13, 20, 27 and February 3and 10, during the Sunday School hour(9:45-10:45 A.M.) in the Session Room (MW-203 onthe second floor of the Ministry Wing). For moreinformation, please call the church office (383-1815)or Sandra Randleman (298-9502).

The First ChristmasWithout…

The family gathered around thetree is smaller now. You keepthinking of the way it was…it hurts.

Stephen Ministers are trained tolisten while you work through yoursorrow and pain.

If any member of the church desires the Christiansupport of a Stephen Minister, call Sandra Randleman(298-9502).

We got a head start on the trip by meeting at theNashville airport at 4:15 A.M. Who doesn’t want to getacquainted with his and her fellow trip-mates at 4:30 in themorning? Travels went smoothly and we landed in SantoDomingo in the early afternoon and the heat of the day. Atthe airport, we met up with Keith (our team member whoflew in from California) and the Crossfit group fromBroadripple, Indiana, who would also be staying at the SolidRock Guesthouse that week. Dan and Kari, the Solid RockGuesthouse hosts and our driver met us at the airport. Weloaded up a TON of luggage and 20+ people onto the busand trailer to drive into the city. We stayed at a hotel for theevening, which allowed us to recover from the travels andease into the new surroundings.

After checking in and having a little time to get settled,our crew met up by the pool for a not-so-very Dominicanmeal of Domino’s pizza. Following the late afternoon/earlyevening dinner, all the men in the group decided to ventureinto the historical part of the city for some sightseeing. Thewomen in our group decided to enjoy some leisure timeand stayed at the hotel.

Sunday morning, we all enjoyed the hotel breakfast buffetand then met up for the bus ride to San Juan. It wasprobably about a four-hour drive to San Juan de laMaguana, but between the bike race on the road, thescenery and the pit stop at a Dominican version of a truckstop, we weren’t exactly looking at our watches.

Once in San Juan, we were assigned to our Guesthouserooms. We had lunch and then used the afternoon to getsettled. The medical team also used that time to startunloading all the medical supplies we’d brought with us and

sorted some of the medications so they’d be ready forMonday’s work day. The Clean Water team headed over tocheck out their work site for the week.

Following Sunday night dinner, we went to a localchurch service. It was entirely in Spanish, but one of thelocal members did translate some of the sermon for us andprovided the translation on the video screens. Obviouslythat was very helpful and much appreciated by the non-Spanish speakers in our group...which was most of us!Other evening activities during the week included a softballgame against some local friends of Solid Rock (Christirepresented FPC well with her participation — batted .400,1 RBI), dinner of local cuisine at a restaurant in San Juanand some lively games of UNO. On the final night, somemembers of our group got to meet their “sponsoredchildren” who are students at a nearby school.

We had four work days while we were there. Our“medical team” took a team of three doctors, one RN andthree willing but non-medically skilled volunteers to abarrio (neighborhood/village) each day to set up atemporary clinic. Along with us were a medical teamcoordinator, an RN (who is also the medical team assistant)and about five translators, since the majority of our teamspeaks little to no Spanish. Additionally, there was a ministerwho interacted with everyone as they were waiting to beseen. Over the course of the week, we saw about 565patients. Our “pharmacy” distributed blood pressuremedicines, pain relievers, drugs for treating parasites, somecold/cough treatments, allergy medications, antibiotics,hydrocortisone cream, acid-reflux treatments and variousmedications to assist the women of the communities withtheir unique maladies.

2012 Participants: Jim Cato, Mike Crout, John Gillespie,Scott Kendrick, Fragrance Lin, Laura May, Keith Nolop,Mike O’Brien, Dorothy Pace, Bruce Ramsden, AndrewTriggs, Betsy Triggs and Christi Turner.

Visit missions.fpcnashville.org/pub/archived-mission-reports for the rest of the story.

Dominican Republic

Mission Trip November 3-9

Three-Year-Olds Enter Holy Space EachWeek in Sunday School

On August 19, three-year-olds of our congregation came to their newSunday School room to meet their Sunday School leaders and explore anew place to worship and learn about God.

Part of the time that morning was spent talking about Holy space, andthe children heard how God asked Moses to take his sandals off becausehe was standing on Holy Ground. The children talked with their parentsabout where they could create a place to worship in their home. As partof the lesson, each three-year-old created his/her own worship cloth. It

has their name and their handprinton it to remind them that they areunique and they are children of God.God knows them by name!

Each Sunday as these three-year-olds and their leaders gather to do Bible Study, theteachers hand out these worship clothes to the children who sit on them in their circle.These worship cloths and this story circle have become Holy Ground for our three-year-olds who eagerly anticipate receiving the prayer cloth each week.

Our special volunteer leaders in the three-year-olds Sunday School class are Hamiltonand Emily Bowman, J’Anne Cox, Alphonsine Hakizimana, Anne and Mike Hinton andJessica Lewis.

Over the next two months the three-year-olds will explore the Christmas Story fromLuke and Matthew and then learn from the Gospel of Mark how Jesus was baptized andcalled disciples.

Ginger JoinsCommunicationsMinistry

Ginger Burden has joined theFPC staff as CommunicationsAssistant. Originally from Clarksville,Tennessee, she and her husbandmoved back down south toNashville three years ago after livingin New York City for eight years.

With a bachelor’s degree inEnglish and creative writing, Gingerhas done communications work inthe non-profitworld for fouryears and nowowns a graphicdesign businesswith her husband.

She is gratefulto be a part of thewarm andwelcoming FPC family, and isinspired by their generous spirit.

Share the warmth on Sunday,January 27, following the 11:00 A.M.worship service. All are invited to bring a covered dishthat morning to share with our First PresbyterianChurch family, to mingle with friends and to enjoy ahymn sing.

Childcare is provided. Bring your covered dish toCourtenay Hall before worship. If it needs refrigeration,store it in the unlocked refrigerator in the kitchen. Allother food can be placed on the serving table.

If you would like to help or have questions, contact

Kelly McMullen (298-1492 or Kelly_mc@comcast.net).

Journey of Small Bumps,Huge Blessings

The core families of New Creation Church have beengathering now each Sunday for almost 14 weeks. It’s beena journey of studying, praying and learning to love oneanother as Christ loves us. In reflection, there are alreadymany highlights from the time shared in our homeeach Sunday:

• Our very first gathering studying Acts • The weekly children’s sermon on our living

room floor• Waffle & bacon Sunday• My son coming out naked shouting, “Someone

wipe me!”However, one of my favorites thus far has been our First

Sunday of Communion. My kids were at the doctor sick,with others from our group. Then, the power went out,which meant no coffee. I know you are wondering,“Did we cancel?” We didn’t cancel, but it couldn’t getmuch crazier.

We gathered at the table for the Lord’s Supper. Thechildren thought it would be a good idea to stand inchesaway from the table and listened intently as I said the wordsof institution. They were truly excited to celebrate the loveof our Savior. Actually, every time I said the wordcommunion one child would even throw up his hands andsay, “Yeah!”

It was not at all what I had planned but I couldn’t thinkof a more precious way to share this sacrament ofredemption, grace and love. Starting a church is messy andbeautiful. Please pray for these families who have committedto sharing in life together. Through all the imperfections,God is at work and creating in us a new creation!

Grace and Peace — Keith

You can contribute to the building of NewCreation Church by visiting their Amazon Wish List(newcreationhendersonville.org).

Reminder: Return Christmas Giftsfor Foster Children

All gifts and cards for sponsored children must bereturned to the Courtenay Hall Christmas treeno later than Sunday, December 16. ContactSarah White or Sue Fort White (615-383-5400 or sue.fort.white@vanderbilt.edu)with any questions.

The Christmas Joy OfferingThe Christmas Joy Offering is a cherished

Presbyterian tradition since the 1930s. Itis one of two special offerings designated bythe General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church(USA) offered to members of our congregationand will be received at all services on Sunday,December 23.

Because Advent and Christmas shine a light not only onour world’s greatest hope but also on our world’s greatestneed, the PC(USA) provides this timely opportunity forcongregations to support causes specifically designed to bring“good news of great joy” (Luke 2:10) to the poor incircumstance or spirit. Alongside the message of promise andfulfillment in Luke’s Gospel, we also hear the clear call toGod’s people to respond in faith as Christ calls us: “Fromeveryone to whom much has been given, much will berequired; and from the one to whom much has beenentrusted, even more will be demanded” (Luke 12:48).

Gifts to the Christmas Joy Offering will be distributedequally to the Assistance Program of the Board of Pensionsand to support student scholarships at Presbyterian-relatedracial ethnic schools and colleges (Barber-Scotia College inNorth Carolina, Cook Native American Ministries inArizona, Knoxville College in Tennessee, Menaul School inNew Mexico, Presbyterian Pan American School in Texasand Stillman College in Alabama).

As we celebrate the good news of great joy this Christmasseason — that a Savior has been born unto us — may ourgifts bear joyful witness to God’s uncontainable love.Offering envelopes will be available in the December 23bulletin as well as in each pew. Children may return theirAdvent coin boxes to the collection baskets located in thechurch narthex. All donations payable to FPC will appear onmembers’ year-end contribution statements if received byDecember 30.

Upcoming Communion Schedule• Weekly: After 11:00 A.M.

service in the Session Room• January 6: 8:30, 11:00 A.M.

& 5:30 P.M.; Quarterlyserved in the Sanctuary

• January 13: 12:30 P.M. athome Communion

• February 17: 8:30, 11:00 A.M.& 5:30 P.M.; 1st Sunday of Lent served in the Sanctuary

• February 24, March 3, 10 & 17 in the Session Roomfollowing the 8:30 & 11:00 A.M. services

• March 3: 2nd grade Milestone Celebration — Sacramentof Communion

Almagene Graves joinedFirst Presbyterian Church by

reaffirmation of faith. She is in Parish 4.

Welcome, New Members, to First Presbyterian Church!Inquirers’ Classes, Winter 2012

John Acree joined FirstPresbyterian Church bytransfer from PeachtreePresbyterian in Atlanta,Georgia. He is in Parish 44.

Michelle & Britton Garrettjoined First Presbyterian Church byprofession of faith. They are inParish 25.

Connie Allen joined First PresbyterianChurch by profession of faith. She is inParish 14.

Jennifer & Julian Collier joined FirstPresbyterian Church by profession of

faith. They have two children, Williamand James. They are in Parish 4.

Ben Crownover joined FirstPresbyterian Church by reaffirmation of

faith. He is in Parish 15.

Shih-zen Cheng joinedFirst Presbyterian Church byprofession of faith. He is inParish 37.

Third Sunday of Advent, December 16 • 8:30 and 11:00 AM

Sermon: The Characters of Christmas: Mary by Dr. Todd JonesScriptures: Zechariah 9:9-10 and Luke 1:39-56Ringtones Handbell Choir will provide the Opening Voluntary for both services. Hosanna I and II choirs will provide theIntroit, Arise, Shine, for both services.8:30 AM Service: Offertory, Magnificat in G by Charles V. Stanford.11:00 AM Service: Offertory, Lift Up Your Heads from G.F. Handel’s Messiah.

Blue Christmas: A Service of Hope, December 16 • Following the 11:00 AM

Worship Service in Stanford ChapelBrightly wrapped packages, Christmas trees, holiday parties, unending upbeat carols in shops and malls, visits from friends andfamily, baking and cooking, food everywhere — and the awed, hushed joy of welcoming a tiny Infant to our world and ourhearts — these are the images and memories of Christmas most of us celebrate and treasure. But each year some people —the grieving, the lonely, the sad — dread the approach of the holiday season. They have no heart for the cheer and the bustle,the anticipation and the excitement. The FPC Stephen Ministry will present a worship service called Blue Christmas: AService of Hope. If you desire the Christian support of a Stephen Minister, call Sandra Randleman (298-9502).

Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 23 • 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 AM

Sermon: The Characters of Christmas: Joseph by Dr. Todd JonesScriptures: Micah 5:2-5 and Matthew 1:18-25There will be no Sunday School classes.11:00 AM Service: Offertory, For Unto Us a Child is Born from G. F. Handel’s Messiah.

Christmas Eve Family Service • Monday, December 24 • 5:00 PM

Children from 4 to 94 will thrill to the simple joy and beauty of this family Christmas service. Carols, scripture andchildren’s choirs help us welcome the new baby Jesus. Nursery care is available for 3 years old and under.

Service of Lessons & CarolsMonday, December 248:00 PM and 11:00 PM

Pre-service music starts at7:40 PM and 10:40 PM

Dr. Todd Jones will deliver the ChristmasEve sermon The Birth of God. The storyof our redemption in Christ Jesus will betold through the nine traditional lessons,carols and anthems. The service will havemusic after each of the lessons, includingcongregational hymns and anthems bythe Sanctuary Choir. Give yourself a giftthis Christmas and be refreshed by thebeautiful candlelight of Christmas Eve.This year, we will have 20 minutes ofpre-service music. So come early andenjoy a musical treat. No nursery care.

Peter van Lingen joined First PresbyterianChurch by transfer from Dutch ReformedChurch in South Africa. He is married toAlice Hinton. He is in Parish 10.

Kathryn Watkins joinedFirst Presbyterian Churchby profession of faith. She ismarried to Scott Watkins.She is in Parish 24.

Inquirers’ Classes, Winter 2012WINTER MUSIC SCHEDULE

December 9, 4:00 P.M.Christmas Concert

January 13, 12:20 P.M.Young Artist Concert

February 3, 2:00 P.M.Mendelssohn’s Elijah

February 24, 12:20 P.M.Opera Arias for

Tenor and Baritone

March 1, 6:15 P.M.Broadway Dinner Show

March 17, 2:00 P.M.Music City Baroque

March 29, 7:00 P.M.Tenebrae...A Service

of Darkness

Nahed and JoelZehr joined FirstPresbyterian Churchby profession of faith.

Concert Series FeaturesAccomplished Organist

Carolyn Craig, a sixteen-year-old keyboardartist from Knoxville, Tennessee, will perform anorgan recital on Sunday, January 13, as part of the12:20 Concert Series. As a pianist, Carolyn haswon several notablecompetitions, which inturn have led to concertoperformances withorchestras in Tennessee, aswell as an appearance atCarnegie Hall. As anorganist, Carolyn was thefirst place winner of theColumbia, SouthCarolina, American Guildof Organists YoungOrganist Competition in 2012. Currently astudent of John Brock, she has also studied organwith Janette Fishell and Ken Cowan. Mark yourcalendars — this recital is not to be missed!

Inquirers’ Classes, Winter 2012

Judith and Victor Legerton joined FirstPresbyterian Church by transfer from LutheranChurch In The Foothills in LaCanada, California.They have a son, Evan. They are in Parish 45.

John Halsell IV joined FirstPresbyterian Church by transfer fromFirst Presbyterian Church in Paducah,Kentucky. He is married to MelissaHalsell. He is in Parish 39.

Stephanie and Jim Hastings, Jr.joined First Presbyterian Church bytransfer. Stephanie from ChristPresbyterian Church in Franklin,Tennessee and Jim from CalvaryUnited Methodist Church inNashville, Tennessee. They are inParish 19.

Ellissa Lambjoined FirstPresbyterian Church by transfer from EmmanuelPresbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee. Shehas two children, Meagan and Bennett, who arealso members. They are in Parish 55.

Lisa and Kevin Kimbroughjoined First Presbyterian Churchby transfer. Lisa from Belle AireBaptist Church in Murfreesboro,Tennessee and Kevin fromFirst Methodist Church inMurfreesboro, Tennessee. They are in Parish 14.

Lisa LeMaster and her husband,J.B. Ruhl, joined First PresbyterianChurch by transfer from FaithPresbyterian Church in Tallahassee,Florida. They have two children,Grant and Grayson.

Nancy and Zouky Mapangala joinedFirst Presbyterian Church by profession offaith. They have three children, Nephtalie,David and Julianna. They are in Parish 29.

Joseph Maxwell joined FirstPresbyterian Church by reaffirmationof faith. He is engaged to SusanGillpatrick. He is in Parish 34.

Sarah Moats joined First PresbyterianChurch by transfer from Fourth Presbyterian

Church in Chicago, Illinois. She is married toJeffrey Moats. They have one child, Eleanor.

She is in Parish 3.

Melinda March joinedFirst Presbyterian Churchby profession of faith. Sheis in Parish 26.

Inquirers’ Classes, Winter 2012

Scott Montgomeryjoined First

Presbyterian Churchby transfer from St.

Charles PresbyterianChurch in New

Orleans, Louisiana.He is married to

member, AmyMontgomery. They

are in Parish 54.

Inquirers’ Classes, Winter 2012

Georgia and Jerry Sewelljoined First Presbyterian

Church by transfer from St.Andrews Presbyterian Churchin Newport Beach, California.

They are in Parish 27.

Anne and KeithMoore joined FirstPresbyterian Church bytransfer from First UnitedMethodist Church inColumbia, Tennessee.They have one son,Zachary. They are inParish 44.

Courtney and WilliamMott joined FirstPresbyterian Church bytransfer from SecondPresbyterian Church inLittle Rock, Arkansas.They are in Parish 46.

Amy and James Ratliff joinedFirst Presbyterian Church, Amy byreaffirmation of faith and James bytransfer from First Century UnitedMethodist Church in Chattanooga,Tennessee. They have one child,James. They are in Parish 1.

Thomas Noland joined FirstPresbyterian Church by reaffirmationof faith. He is in Parish 50.

Neil Templeton joined FirstPresbyterian Church by transferfrom St. Andrew PresbyterianChurch in Lynchburg, Virginia.He is in Parish 42.

Non Profit OrgU S Postage

P A I DNashville, TNPermit No. 27.

Dated church materialPlease deliver by December 15, 2012

First Presbyterian Church4815 Franklin PikeNashville, Tennessee 37220

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Please note that“the 5:3O“ worship service

is moving to theStanford Chapel during Advent.

First Presbyterian Church4815 Franklin PikeNashville, Tennessee 37220www.fpcnashville.org

PastorsTodd JonesPastor

Sam CooperExecutive Pastor

Mark DeVriesAssociate Pastor to Youth& Their Families

Catherine FosterAssociate Pastor forYoung Adult Ministry

Stuart GordonAssociate Pastor for Discipleship

Keith GunterAssociate Pastor for NewChurch Development

Sandra RandlemanAssociate Pastor forCongregational Care & Mission

Program StaffNicholas BerginInterim Organist

Raphael BundageDirector of Music

Karen FittsNursery Coordinator

Brenda GeiseOlder Adult MinistryCoordinator

Letitia GreenDirector of Recreation

Susan KirbyWorship Coordinator

Carol McClureDirector of Children & Youth Choirs

Deb O’BrienDirector of Children’s Ministry

Rhonda SwansonAssistant Organist

Brandon Van PernisDirector of Youth Ministries

Amelia WatsonCoordinator of Parish Ministry

SchoolsJennifer HinoteHead of School, Oak Hill School

Brenda LutzDirector, FPC Early Preschool

AdministrationCindy BozmanFinance Manager

Lynn ElliottPastor’s Assistant

Zonia NunleyProperty Manager

Shannon ParsonsCommunications Coordinator

Carl WomackFood Service Director

Youth Happenings

Sunday School December 16 GO BIG!Grades 7-12 will meet in The GatheringPlace at 9:40 A.M. for all of Sunday School!December 23 – NO Sunday SchoolThere will be no Sunday School! Enjoy theholidays with the family!December 30Grades 7-12 will meet in The GatheringPlace at 9:40 A.M. We will then split intograde level classes!

Junior High Retreat: January 25-27,Perfect North, Indiana. Come join us for funin the snow! Sign up online or contactMillie Ledbetter. You don’t want to miss out!

9th Grade Retreat: January 25-27,Boone, North Carolina. Want to get awayfor the weekend and enjoy the mountains?Come on the retreat with us! Sign up onlineor contact Millie Ledbetter.

Passion Conference — Seniors:January 1-4, Atlanta, Georgia. Registeronline or contact Teddy Christenberry(tchristenberry@fpcnashville.org).

Sunday Worship: 8:30 and 11:00 A.M.services in the sanctuary every Sundaymorning, and the 5:30 P.M. evening servicein the Enrichment Center. Families, pleasejoin us at one of these worship serviceseach Sunday.

Youth Newsletter: If your family isn’treceiving the monthly Youth Newsletter inyour email, please let Millie Ledbetter know(mledbetter@fpcnashville.org or 298-9570).