September 11, 2013 • Volume 28, No. 18

Here’s a pop quiz for you. Inwhat year does this phrase fromthe worship bulletin of FirstPresbyterian appear? Themembers of the congregationare requested to resume theirseats after the benediction, for amoment of silent prayer. Was it1911, 1931, 1951, or 1971?(The answer will be providedon page 9).

Over the summer, I enjoyedsurveying the worship bulletins of over one hundred yearsat First Presbyterian Church. We have the work ofDamaris Steele, our former church archivist, to thank forsuch a splendid collection of resources! I wanted to get asense of the worship life of our nearly-200 year-oldcongregation of Christian disciples. Besides picking uptidbits such as the one above, I learned about changes overthe years. For instance, the Order for Worship, for a longtime, could fit on less than one page; a printed, corporateprayer of confession was introduced in 1972; and whilethe Doxology, Lord’s Prayer and Gloria Patri were part ofthe service in 1931, the Apostles’ Creed was not.

I was peering into our history as part of a charge todevelop a new service of worship for Sunday mornings.The Session recently approved a Strategic Plan that callsfor engaging members of the church who are notcurrently active and regular worshipers. Because worshipis the heartbeat of the church’s life and our currentservices do not connect with everyone (our total averageworship attendance — at morning services in thesanctuary and at 5:30 in the Gathering Place — is aboutone-quarter of our membership), the Session has endorseda plan to launch a third service, an alternative to both theformal services of the sanctuary and the contemporaryservice in the Gathering Place. That service will begin onOctober 6, meet in the Enrichment Center and

commence each week at 10:55. Catherine Foster and Iwill be the ministers responsible for leadership and ToddJones will be present by means of the sermon, recorded atthe 8:30 service and projected in the Enrichment Center.This is a model that has worked successfully in threePresbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregations similar toours, one in North Carolina, one in Texas and one inSouth Carolina.

Already, a task force of members is at work preparingfor that day, working to insure that the service is family-friendly, warm and relaxed and true to our identity as acongregation. A pianist/choir director has been hired whocan lead the congregation in singing a variety of music,from hymns to praise songs to music from the globalchurch. The new denominational hymnal, Glory to God,will be our resource. Children’s activities are beingdeveloped, so that the whole family can worship togetherwithout anxiety about disturbing others. Older childrenare being asked to read scripture in the service and helpreceive the offering; adults are being asked to serve aswelcoming hosts and worship leaders; and, of course,coffee and donut service is being planned to persistthroughout the worship hour! Our aim is to nurture thekind of hospitality that draws a people together in worshipand sustains the desire to return, week after week.

One more tidbit I found in the bulletin archives wasthis motto, which appeared upon the arrival of Dr. WalterCourtenay in January of 1944. It was printed on the frontpage each week: Old in Tradition — Modern in Service.That is a motto worthy of First Presbyterian Church still,one that I pray we will be worthy of as we launch thisnew service!

Grace and peace,

My Dear Friends,

Stuart GordonAssociate Pastor

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.

Sympathy

SUNDAY

SEPTEMBER 22, 2013

Sermon“Is There No Balm

in Gilead?”

Scripture ReadingsJeremiah 8:18-19:1

Luke 16:1-13

Todd JonesPastor

SUNDAY

SEPTEMBER 15, 2013

Sermon“The God Who Pursues”

Scripture ReadingsJeremiah 4:11,12,22-28

Luke 15:1-10

Todd JonesPastor

The First Presbyterian Church familyextends prayers and sympathy to thefollowing people and to other membersof their family during their time of loss.

Lana & Kevin Kidd on the death of Lana’sfather, Harold Marion Dehnam, who died onAugust 5. Sympathy to Katherine, John, Victoria& James Kidd.

Chris & Mary Simonsen on the death of Chris’ mother,Corrine T. Simonsen, who died on August 23.

Sally & Joe Huston on the death of Sally’s mother,Mary Ann Fry, who died on August 25.

Sympathy to friends and family of Joe H. Earls, whodied on August 25.

Kathy & Terry Brandon on the death of Kathy’s mother,Barbara Anne Reynolds Swint, who died on August 30.Sympathy to R. Lucien Brandon.

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.

The First Presbyterian Church familycongratulates the following people during theirnew births.

Elizabeth & Ryan Walker on the birth oftheir son, George Graham Walker, IV, whowas born on July 27. Congratulations tograndparents, Anne & Darryl Edmonds.

Congratulations

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

Cindy & Pieter Loggenberg presented theirdaughter, Valentina Loggenberg, for baptism on August25. Assisting Elder was Steve Butler.

Allison & Scott Freeman presented their daughter,Eloise Sheppard Freeman, for baptism on September 1.Assisting Elder was Andrew Byrd.

The Sacrament of Baptism

Congregational MeetingA congregational meeting has been called for Sunday,

September 22, immediately following both worship servicesfor the purpose of voting on a slate of candidates presentedby the Officer Nominating Committee. Nominated forElder, Class of 2016, are Craig Buffkin, Steve Butler,Kathy Celauro, Peter Cobb, Ben Cundiff, John Ferguson,Bob LaGrone, Hal Sauer, Lonnie Stout, Tom Stumb,Tom Swain and John Wimberly. Nominated for Deacon,Class of 2015, are Scott Anderson, Dana Atkins,Milam Brantley, Wilson Brim, Charlie Bryan, Chris Cain, Gary Collier, Laura Coyle, Duncan Dashiff, Chuck Lassing,David McClellan, Carolyn McDonald, Shelia Odusote,Angela Perkey, Bruce Ramsden, Billy Rolfe, Ben Roney,Mike Shampain, Darryl Thompson and Terry Weingartner.Nominated to fulfill an unexpired term for Deacon, Classof 2014, is Overton Colton, and nominated to fulfill anunexpired term for Deacon, Class of 2015, is Ben Merrill.Nominated to serve as congregation-at-large membersfor next year’s Officers Nominating Committee areTricia Carswell, Sam Sells and Mary Loch Smith.

Register for Fall BasketballIt’s that time of the year to start planning

for fall basketball. The deadline is September28, and the fee is $100 for K-3rd and $110for 4th-6th. The FPC basketball league startson October 26 and continues throughDecember 14. You may register online athttp://rec.fpcnashville.org/sports/. We are expecting a reallybig turnout this season. If you have any questions, contactAndrew Kelso (298-9526 or akelso@fpcnashville.org).

The church web site and e-mail comprise the two primary ways that we provide 1) information and 2)inspiration, support, and parent education related to nurturing faith 24/7 (not just on Sundays).

Every Friday at 1:00 P.M. an e-mail is sent to every family with a child age newborn – 6th grade. It is called“Weekly Updates” and contains a summary of information for you at-a-glance and has clickable links for you toeasily take any action needed. Most of this information is also reprinted in the worship bulletin; we’ve made iteasy for you to stay up-to-date should you miss a Sunday! This information is always available 24/7 on thewebsite by selecting “Blog” from the Children’s webpage.

To stay in tune with what’s happening forchildren and their families, we strongly suggestyou glance over this e-mail or web page. Yourfamily’s e-mail address has been automaticallysubscribed to this e-mail. You can manage yoursubscription at any time on the website.

For stories about what’s going on with your child’s Sunday School small group or aboutyour child’s specific age/grade level. After Labor Day, Sunday School teachers will beginsharing stories, pictures, slideshows and happenings here and you can comment on theirposts, too.

For a “parent-pick-me-up” or some ideas about infusing faith into your homerituals, or a nugget of insight on raising our children in the faith, check out the“Parents’ Guide.” You’ll find a delightful mix of inspiration, support and humor here.As the saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child.” As with the other blogs, youcan read it and you can post comments.

We’d love for you to contribute to the Parents’ Guide, too. If you find an article, TEDTalk, blog, video,whatever, that you think would be helpful to other FPC parents, submit it to Deb O’Brien(Dobrien@fpcnashville.org).

Don’t want to have to remember to go to the Website? You caneasily subscribe to receive the Life Stages and Parents’ Guideblogs via e-mail, too! Then you don’t have to remember tocheck the website. From the Children’s webpage, simply select“SUBSCRIBE” and check the box for each blog you’d like.

MEET US ON THE WEB!

Click BLOG from the top navigation on the Children’s webpage. Manageyour subscriptions from the left-hand navigation, “SUBSCRIBE.”

From the blog page, select the age group from the left-hand navigation or choose LIFESTAGES from the Children’s Ministry drop-down selections and select the age group.

Simply check the boxes of the blogs you’d like to receive viae-mail. You can manage your subscriptions at any time.

From the blog page, select Parents’ Guide from the left-hand navigation.

help!

Gideon: Your Weakness,God’s Strength

When we hear the nameGideon, most of us think abouthis 300 soldiers or the fleece helaid out under the evening sky.But Gideon’s story is so muchbigger than that — bigger thanany one man and his mark onIsrael’s history. Like everythingelse in the Bible, this is a storyabout God and His people. Hislove for them, as well as His strength operating in spite oftheir weakness — even through their weakness. And becauseGod’s people includes you and me, Gideon’s story is alsoabout us — our lives, our doubts, our struggles and ourpossibilities as believers. From a state of fear, weakness andinsecurity, Gideon emerged as Israel’s hero, filled with God’spresence and His passion for deliverance. This study willencourage you to recognize your weakness as the key thatthe Lord gives you to unlock the full experience of Hisstrength in your life. In what ways do you feel insufficient?Those places create the greatest opportunity to experiencethe sufficiency of God. Instead of ignoring, neglecting, ortrying to escape your weaknesses, see them as the gifts thatthey are, given specifically and strategically by God tounlock the door of God’s strength.

Join Leslee Bechtel and Lee Oakley, beginningSeptember 18, as they lead this friendly and lively group onWednesday mornings in Vance Hall/Room 222 at 9:30 A.M.For more information or to reserve a study book, pleasecontact Leslee (llbdesigns@aol.com).

Thursday Morning Bible StudyThis study with Todd Jones resumes September 12. Men

and women of all ages are invited to join Dr. Todd Jones forthis weekly study. The study is Thursdays, from 11:00 A.M. tonoon, in the Jones Session Room. The study will be on thebook of Romans. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity tostudy the Word with our Senior Pastor!

Bible Overview Class Returns Beginning after Labor Day, Marbut Gaston will again

teach his popular Sunday School class, Genesis toRevelation. This 28-week course builds a strong foundationfor any continued study of the Bible; it will pay dividendsfor years to come. The class meet in Vance Hall on Sundaysfrom 9:45 to 10:40 A.M. Marbut is available to discuss thecontent of the course and to explain the schedule. You mayemail him at marbutjr@aol.com.

Why Do We Worship this Way?Just what makes Presbyterians distinctive, aside from that

whole predestination subject? This fall, you can studyReformed Worship. It is something that you might sense in thesanctuary on a Sunday morning, without exactly being ableto put your finger on it. Why do we worship the way weworship? Why do we not worship the way other Christiansworship? If these are questions that interest you, you’reinvited to join a Thursday evening study in Vance Hall.The group enjoys an optional dinner at 6:30 P.M. ($6) andthe study runs from 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. You may contactStuart (sgordon@fpcnashville.org) for more information.Copies of Howard Rice’s book, Reformed Worship, areavailable in Bookmarks.

Jesus Heads Toward His DestinyIn September, three lunchtime study groups will follow

Matthew’s presentation of Jesus’ journey toward Jerusalem.On Mondays in Maryland Farms (Cushman-WakefieldBuilding), Wednesdays in Green Hills (Freeman-WebbBuilding), and Fridays downtown (Fifth/Third Building),Associate Pastor Stuart Gordon will lead these lunchtimestudy groups. You’re invited to bring a lunch and take partwhen you’re able; each group gathers with food anddiscussion, with the study completing the 55-minutegathering. You can contact Stuart Gordon(sgordon@fpcnashville.org) for more information.

What Do They Say About Jesus?The Logos Sunday School class has begun a year of

listening to the many witnesses who testify about Jesus. Jesushimself once asked his still-green followers, “Who do peoplesay that I am?” And then, “Who do you say that I am?”

Whether you are a lifelong disciple or an interestedseeker, those questions are still apparent. So, the class willspend the fall listening to accounts of the life and ministry;Advent listening to testimony about the incarnation; winterand Lent about the death; and the spring about Jesus’resurrection and ascension.

The Logos Class is led by the Rev. Stuart Gordon andmeets in Stanford Chapel each Sunday from 10:00 to10:40 A.M. beginning September 15.

Nice Women Study ‘Bad Girls’The Thursday Morning Women’s Bible Study is

continuing its study of Liz Curtis Higgs’ Bad Girls of theBible. Our group meets 7:00 – 7:45 A.M. in Vance Hall andis led by Associate Pastor Sandra Randleman. Women of allages are invited to join us. If you have questions, contactSandra (srandleman@fpcnashville.org or 298-9502).

First Friends CelebratesOur Own

The coming months hold inspiration, blessings andjoyful surprises as “First Friends Celebrates Our

Own.” For years Planning Committees have scoured MiddleTennessee, seeking interesting speakers for our ThursdayLuncheon programs, and no doubt, we have been successfulin hosting outstanding guests. This year, it occurred to thePlanning Committee that we have people right here amongus, fellow members of FPC, with some of the mostcompelling stories around. We invited some of theseremarkable persons to share from their life experiences at theThursday Luncheon program, and they all graciouslyaccepted. You will personally know some of the speakers;others you may not know, but our hope is that after hearingtheir stories this year, we all will feel more connected. We willbe hearing from the military, CEOs, refugees, an attorney,farmers, a broadcaster — all with stories of struggle and faith.

Luncheon programs are held in Courtenay Hall the thirdThursday of the month. We will enjoy a buffet lunch at noon,followed by “A Word from the Pastor” and then the guestspeaker. Everyone is encouraged to come help us celebratethe outstanding contributions these friends have made. Watchfor notices in First Edition and Sunday Edition for the speakerof the month. Reservations for lunch ($6) should be made byMonday of the week of the program.

In addition to the Thursday luncheon, First Friends enjoysother times of fun and fellowship. The third Sunday of eachmonth, following the 11:00 A.M. worship, we have lunchtogether at a local restaurant. Sign-up is due by the Fridaybefore. We also enjoy Day Trips. Look for notices of them inFirst Edition and Sunday Edition. For bridge lovers, we offerFirst Friday Bridge; contact Betsy Davies (377-3048) forinformation. The last event for the fall season will be ourChristmas Dinner/Holiday Lights Tour. Put the date on yourcalendar — December 20, 5:00 P.M. — and watch for details.

First Friends Speaker, Frank TackerFrank Tacker is our speaker

for the First FriendsLuncheon/Program onSeptember 19. Frank will besharing from his lifeexperiences, specifically histime as a POW in World WarII. Frank was born February 5,1925, at Protestant Hospitalhere in Nashville. He attendedMurphy, Tarbox, Hume-Foggand West public schools, graduating in January, 1943. InMarch of ’43 he volunteered for service in the United States

Army. He did basic training at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina,returned to Nashville for maneuvers, on to Camp Atterbury,Indiana, then Camp Miles Standish, Massachusetts, andsailed from Boston in November 1944. Come hear the restof the story from the man, himself, our own Frank Tacker.

September DatesSeptember 15: Noon — Sunday Lunch, Husk,

downtown Nashville (holding 20 reservations). RSVP byFriday, September 13.

September 19: Noon — Thursday Lunch/ Program,Courtenay Hall ($6). RSVP by Monday, September 16.

Make all reservations with Ginny Tindle (383-1815 orgtindle@fpcnashville.org).

June Ramsey Class SpeakersCarol Mansour, a member of the Baha'i faith will speak

to the June Ramsey Class on September 15. The followingSunday, September 22, Lindsay Gray, Managing Editor ofThe Upper Room, will speak, and on September 29, wewill enjoy a PowerPoint presentation on the church’s recentmedical mission trip to Africa.

The class begins at 9:45 A.M. in the living room of theCheek House. Everyone is invited.

Spiritual Journey EnjoysOne Thousand Gifts

Ann Voskamp is a farmer’s wife, the home-educatingmama to a half-dozen exuberant kids, and author of OneThousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, aNew York Times sixty-week bestseller.

One Thousand Gifts is about discovering reasons forgratitude, no matter the situation, and coming to arealization of God’s ever-present grace. The eight chaptersare written in personal and poetic language and are full ofappropriate Bible passages. It resonates with women whohave busy lives with children, jobs outside the home andneed and want the support of Christ through Scripture. TheSpiritual Journeys class welcomes any women who want tojoin us for this study that started September 8. The classmeets in the Dining Room of the Cheek House onSundays at 9:45. A.M.

Contemplative PrayerA contemplative prayer group meets in the Memorial

Library Wednesday afternoons from 4:00 – 5:00 P.M. Pleasejoin this group for a time of prayer whenever your schedulepermits. For more information, contact Sandra (298-9502 orsrandleman@fpcnashville.org).

Taking a Long-Term View at FPC NashvilleThe FPC Long Range Planning Committee and Session held a town hall meeting on May 13 to finalize the future plans

for the next five years. This was the culmination of a three-year process. We used a grass roots approach to determine the needsof our church and society, which are in the midst of an ever-changing environment.

The process has been thorough — we conducted a church wide survey, held eight focus groups with specific demographicsfor each and hosted two town hall meetings.

Our church has been blessed toexperience continual membershipgrowth, with an increase of over30% over the past 8 years. We havealso had an increase of almost 50%in worship attendance. Although wegrew over the past few years, thegrowth rate has slowed.

During the planning process, wealso recognized that 25% of ourmembership is between ages 18 and35, which is quite a revelation.According to a recent Gallup poll,44% of all adults attend church,but only 35% between ages 18 and29 attend. All mainlinedenominations are declining inmembership, so we feel blessed withgrowth and want to continuegrowing. Our case for change is totransform lives and culture toaddress societal and demographicchanges and trends.

Our New Five-Year StrategicPlan Includes a New Vision:

“First Presbyterian Church is a church family where all generations exhibit Christ’s love through lives marked by gratitude,hospitality and generosity.” Truly, a church that practices gratitude, makes and keeps promises, lives and speaks truthfully andoffers hospitality is a church that has sustainable growth and relevance.

Our plan includes seven specific initiatives and five year goals. While we realize these are lofty goals, we think that witheveryone participating they are achievable. These were presented in the May 2013 Town Hall meeting and approved by theSession in June 2013.

1. Evaluate leadership culture and the structure of councils and committees to improve transparency in decision making,foster innovative ideas and align leadership with the church’s focus on gratitude, hospitality and generosity.

2. Create personal connections and relationships by fostering, facilitating, creating, growing, expanding and communicatingsmall, community groups for all generations, with a specific focus on re-developing the Parish ministry and evaluating/developing education options as well as focusing on the life-stage needs of the entire congregation, particularly Youth,College, Young Adults, Young Families, Women and Older Adults.

3. Evaluate current worship options with a specific focus on developing or integrating new styles of worship that better fitthe needs of a multi-generational church.

4. Develop a need-based evangelism & outreach program beyond the current focus of missions. 5. Grow and expand stewardship by redefining who gives (everyone), ways in which we can give (including time and talent)

and how we can be generous in our giving.6. Evaluate current communications and create an effective marketing and communications strategy that:

a. Aligns the brand with the vision, andb. Attracts, retains and engages new people in the church with a focus on young adults and those new to Nashville.

7. Create and reinforce a culture of openness and hospitality that actively welcomes visitors and new members into the lifeof the church and fosters opportunities for ongoing relationships. — Bill Kirby, Co-Chair, Long Range Planning Committee

Goal 2002 2012 Growth % Increase 2018 Goal

Membership 3,299 4,265 966 29% 5,000

First Time Visitor Growth N/A N/A 50%

New Members – AnnuallyPreviously Unaffiliated 57 33 -24 -42% 75with a Church

Worship Attendance 843 1,227 384 46% 2,000

Education Attendance (wkly) 737 581 -156 -21% 950

Children SS 261 231 -30 -11% 350

Youth SS 127 102 -25 -20% 200

Adult SS 340 222 -118 -35% 400

Contributions (000) $3,923 $4,533 $610 16% $7,000

Giving Unit Participation 40% 49% 70%

Mission Giving (000) $600 $1,142 $542 90% $2,000

Mission Participation –Time, Talents & Treasure 100%

Active Young Adults 200

Launch a New Church Every 5 yrs.

Dedication, Gratitude for New CreationSunday, August 18, was a very special day in the life of New Creation

Church, our new church “plant” in Hendersonville. That was the daythat the New Creation “storefront” church was formally dedicated. Itwas also an opportunity to recognize and thank the many hands thatwere involved in transforming the storefront space from a place ofbusiness to a sacred place of reverent worship. The contributions to thattransformation came from many directions, and our supporters were allrepresented in Hendersonville that day:

• Representing the presbytery was Rev. Warner Durnell, ExecutivePresbyter of the Presbytery of Middle Tennessee.

• Rev. Sam Cooper represented First Presbyterian Church, alongwith Rev. Keith Gunter who, while an AssociatePastor of FPC, also serves as the full-time pastor of New Creation Church, and whose work is supported by wife,Amy and Program Director, Summer Wiser.

• Frank Bass, Sr., Jimmy Webb and Allen Kennedy represented the Eakin Trust Fund, whose endowment helped makeit possible for New Creation to exist.

• Steve Douse and Ben Carswell represented those individuals and companies (including FPC members Lip Davis,Mike Hindman and John Wimberly) who gave time, materials and services that allowed the build-out of thestorefront space to be done under budget.

• The members of the New Church Development Committee (Andy Spickard, Dorothy Pace, Bob LaGrone, EbralieMwizerwa, Tom Cunningham, Ben Carswell, Steve Douse, and Tom and Sally Davis), who have prayed and workedfor the past three years to help make New Creation Church a successful reality.

As a reminder that what is happening in Hendersonville has notgone unnoticed by the wider world, a film crew from “1001Worshiping Congregations” was also on hand to film the dedicationservice and to show the enthusiastic support that New CreationChurch is receiving from the Hendersonville community. Keith’ssermon was delivered to a standing-room-only crowd and, at times,with cameras in his face and over his shoulder.

I’ll close by saying that while visiting after the service, three regularattendees at New Creation came up to me to ask that I relay theirthanks and appreciation to everyone at First Presbyterian Church.They wanted our church to know that Keith and Amy have been ablessing, not just to those who attend worship at the storefront, butalso to the entire Hendersonville community. They are making an

impact and spreading the gospel, not just on Sundays at the storefront, but in theeveryday interactions that life provides. To keep up with all the activities at New Creation, follow them on

Facebook or visit their website (newcreationhendersonville.org).

By Ron PasqualeChairman, New Church Development Committee

TERRY WEINGARTNER

Family: Rob, husband; Christopher, Anne & Charlie,childrenOccupation: RN,Williamson County SchoolsChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 5 years• Missions Committee• Seminary Support Committee• Room In The Inn

• Presbyterian Women Circle 6 Co-Coordinator• Habitat Volunteer

DARRYL THOMPSON, JR.Family: Lynn, wife; Taylor &Ellis, childrenOccupation: First VicePresident, Raymond JamesFinancialChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for

15 years• John Baird’s Sunday

School Class• Confirmation Class Small

Group Leader• Jamaica Mission Trip (2008-2013)• FPC Missions Committee (2009-2011)• Former Blood Drive Coordinator• Habitat Volunteer• Christian Leadership Concepts Group (outside church)

BEN MERRILL

Family: Karen, wife; Sydney & Taylor, childrenOccupation:Vice President,Compensation, HCAChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 11 years• Chair, Adult Education

Committee• Personnel Committee

JESSE OVERTON COLTON

Family: Amy, wife; Will, Jesse,Andrew & Mary Elizabeth,childrenOccupation: Principal atTruxton TrustChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 18 years• Board Member Center for

Youth Ministry Training• Deacon• Youth Sunday School Leader• Personnel Committee• Youth Mission Trip Leader

[ Deacons Class of 2016 \

[ Deacon Class of 2014 \

[ Deacon Class of 2015 \

Dinner begins at 5:00 P.M.Programs start at 6:00 P.M.

New Menus! As part of a new partnership with Oak Hill School’sdining service, Wednesday meals will be provided by thecatering staff of OHS. Look for all-new menu options thisyear, as well as the continuation of kid-friendly options.

A Diversity of Class Options for Adults!Classes begin September 18.

■ Parents’ Workshop with Daystar Ministries counselorand FPC member Jeremy Shapiro.

■ “On Being a Grandmother” with world-classgrandmothers Roxie Gibson and Helen Dale.

■ The Gospel of Mark, a Kerygma study with theRev. Stuart Gordon.

■ Computer Skills: “What about All these Devices?”with Burton Dietz and Bill Hathaway.

■ DivorceCare, with the Rev. Sandra Randleman.Look for a full description in this issue.

■ Oak Hill Walkers, led by Justin Near.

■ Dinner by reservation; buffet line opens at 5:00 P.M.(fpcnashville.org/congregation/wednesday-nightsor call 383-1815).

■ Programs for everyone begin at 6:00 P.M.

■ Nursery Care available for three and younger byreservation to kfitts@fpcnashville.org.

Ever Thought about Becominga Stephen Minister?

First Presbyterian will be training another class ofStephen Ministers in January. Stephen Ministers workalongside our pastors to care, encourage and provideemotional and spiritual support to people who aregoing through a difficult time, such as divorce, grief,hospitalization, unemployment, terminal illness,relocation, chronic illness or loneliness.

If you have gifts for caring, encouragement andlistening, please begin to prayerfully consider whetheryou might want to be part of this exciting ministry. If you think you might be interested, contact SandraRandleman (srandleman@fpcnashville.org or 298-9502) for application and additional information.

Do You Know Someone GoingThrough A Difficult Time?

Do you have a friend, neighbor,co-worker or relative who has beenstruggling with the loss of a loved one,loneliness, cancer, a layoff, relocation,divorce, a spiritual crisis, recuperation,single parenthood or any other of life’scountless challenges? Our Stephen Ministers canprovide them with the focused care, encouragementand support they need to make it through the crisis.

Our Stephen Ministers Are Ready To CareFor You! Stephen Ministers are members of thiscongregation who have been through extensivetraining and provide confidential, one-to-one,Christian care to people who are experiencing adifficult time. They will listen, care, encourage, praywith and for you, and provide weekly support for youas long as your need persists. If you or someone youknow is hurting, find out more about StephenMinistry. Contact Sandra Randleman (298-9502 orsrandleman@fpcnashville.org).

Jamaica February 2014Dates: February 8-15Cost: $1,600 (est.); $800 deposit due October 1; requiresTetanus vaccination.Brief Details: Development of new church partnerrelationship and construction work; dentists to see local patients.Trip Leaders: Craig Buffkin and Nathan Brandon

Haiti February 2014Dates: February 15-21 (over Presidents’ Day weekend)Cost: $1,300 (est.); $800 deposit due October 1; requiresTetanus vaccination; other vaccinations recommended.Brief Details: Medical personnel to offer pediatric or familypractice medicine, dental, or eye care in clinics; non-medicalparticipants needed to assist in processing patients or work onre-construction projects with partner agencies affected byearthquake; expect rugged conditions.

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

or pheim@fpcnashville.org) if you are interested in learningmore or would like an application form for a mission trip.

Online registration for trips is available from theRegister/Give link on the church homepage

(www.fpcnashville.org).

Scholarship Assistanceis available to FPC members for all FPC-sponsored

trips by contacting Sandra (298-9502 orsrandleman@fpcnashville.org).

Read about missions at FPC online. Mission trips abroad, localmission opportunities, stories, pictures and more.

Visit missions.fpcnashville.org

The women’s Bible studyConnect and its children’scomponent WeeConnect will be

returning this fall beginning on Thursday, September 5 from 9:30-11:15 A.M. in Vance Hall. The class is studying Pricilla Shriver’s: Seeds.Questions? Contact Kelly McMullen (kelly_mc@comcast.net).Nursery is provided, but space is limited. Contact Karen Fitts(kfitts@fpcnashville.org or 298-9519) for information and to register.

10:24The 10:24 program at FPC seeks to increasefriendships and deepen the faith of kids andleaders alike in a fun and focused small groupsetting that emphasizes scripture, application,prayer and sharing life together.

Questions? Contact Scott(298-9510 or shearon@fpcnashville.org)

STAKEYOUR

CLAIMYOURUOYO

AKAKETTATTAS

CLCLYOLALAIMYO RUYO

Groups MeetSeptember 15throughDecember 15

Nominees for the Offices ofElder and Deacon

On the following pages is a slate of nominees for Elder and Deacon presented by the OfficerNominating Committee. Twelve nominees for Elder, Class of 2016; twenty nominees for Deacon,Class of 2016; and fulfilling unexpired terms, two nominees for Deacon, Class of 2014 and 2015.

The committee has been hard at work reviewing the recommendations they received frommembers of the congregation. All of the nominees were well qualified, and we are blessed to beable to choose nominees from a talented congregation full of members with varied gifts.

After much consideration and prayer, the Officer Nominating Committee chose nominees whowould provide the church with dedicated, competent leadership and who were willing and able tolead our church for the next three years.

Contact a member of the committee if you have any questions about the nomination process.

Officer Nominating Committee

Lip Davis, Chair Clokie DixonHugh Tanner, Vice Chair Nathan BrandonGeorge Armistead Todd Jones, Staff Liaison Lattie Brown Shannon Parsons, Staff Liaison

Habitat Home Build Needs YouCome join us! Be a build volunteer (all skill levels

needed) or donate lunch food to feed our hungryworkers on any one of our eight build days:

■ Saturday, September 14 – Sunday, September 15■ Saturday, September 21 – Sunday, September 22■ Saturday, September 28 – Sunday, September 29■ Saturday, October 5 – Sunday, October 6

Register online (fpcnashville.org), sign up in CourtenayHall or contact Patricia Heim (298-9593 orpheim@fpcnashville.org). Driving instructions, releaseform, work day content and food donation suggestionswebsite. Reminder emails will be sent from the church

prior to your work day.Special thanks to Steve Butler

& Les Coble, build co-chairs. They look forward to

you on the Antiochbuild site!

FPC CongregationalFellowship Committee

Announces the Fifth AnnualGolf Scramble

This year’s golf scramble isscheduled for Tuesday, October 8.We will play on the south course ofVanderbilt Legends and will tee offin a shotgun start at 1:00 P.M. A boxlunch will be placed in your golfcart and prizes will be presentedlater in the week at the churchcoffee hour. The range will beopen for your practice an hourbefore tee time.

This year will be pure golf —no mulligans, no free tosses andno yardsticks. We will incorporatethe two putt rule since it hastensplay, sort of: The “While We’reYoung” concept!

The cost is estimated at $75, butthe club has not confirmed pricing.Contact Jerry Breast (331-2360 orvkbjcb@aol.com) if you plan onparticipating.

[ Deacons Class of 2016 \

BRUCE RAMSDEN

Family: Amy, wife; Ashley,Tyler & Tate, childrenOccupation: SoftwareDevelopment, Ingram BargeCompanyChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for

26 years• Chairman of Adult

Missions Committee• Mission Council

• Columbarium Committee• Haiti Mission Trips (2010-2013)• Habitat Volunteer• Logos Sunday School Class• Deacon (Class of 2014)

BEN RONEY

Family: Stacey, wifeOccupation:Vice Presidentof Sales, Supply Services, Inc.Church Involvement:• Member of FPC for 6 years• Stephen Minister Leader

BILLY ROLFE

Family: Cathryn, wife;Rena Clayton & Austin,childrenOccupation: PartnershipVice President with UnitedSurgical PartnersChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for over

30 years• Property Committee• Personnel Committee• Team Leader, Habitat Builds

SHELIA HARSHAW ODUSOTE

Family: Lanre & Shalaba,childrenOccupation: Paralegal &Event PlannerChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 4 years• Church Library Committee• Red Cross Coordinator• PW Nominating

Committee• Helping Hands Coordinator

• PW Coordinating Council• Local Missions Coordinator

ANGELA PERKEY

Occupation: Strategy andSpecial Projects, DaVitaHealthcare PartnersChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 2 years• Long Range Planning

Committee, Strategy Leader & Member

• Stewardship Committee• Connections Sunday

School Teacher• Presbyterian Women Helping Hands Co-Chair• Presbyterian Women Circle 8• Habitat Volunteer

MICHAEL ROBERT SHAMPAIN

Family: Pamela, wife;Steven, sonOccupation: RetiredFinancial AdvisorChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 14 years• Men’s Bible Study Group• Stephen Minister• Men of Valor Mentor• Monroe Harding Mentor• Room Inn The Inn

• Mission Council Member• Finance Committee Member• Cuba Mission Trip Participant• Homeless Lunch Program at Downtown Presbyterian Church

MICHAEL DUNCAN DASHIFF

Family: Melissa, wife; Stephen & Adelaide, childrenOccupation: ManagingMember, Epiphany HealthVentures; Chairman and Co-Founder, Citizengine, Inc.(d/b/a iCitizen and iCity)Church Involvement:• Member of FPC

for 15 years• Member of Oak Hill School

Board of Trustees (2009-2013)• Treasurer and Member of Executive Committee of

Oak Hill School (2010-2013)• Room In The Inn Overnight Volunteer• Habitat Volunteer• Jamaica Mission Trip Volunteer• Children’s Sunday School Teacher• Confirmation Class Small Group Leader

JOHN CHARLES LASSING

Family: Cindy, wife; Fitz, Kelly & Mac, childrenOccupation: Banker,Pinnacle BankChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for

14 years• Board Member Oak

Hill School• Logos Sunday School Class• Prayer Partner

• Volunteer for Youth (Crud Day, Family Facelift)

DAVID G. MCCLELLAN

Family: Mary Catherine,wife; Catherine Gray,Alexander Steele & CarterLee, childrenOccupation: ManagingDirector, Heritage GroupChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for

11 years

[ Deacons Class of 2016 \

LAURA EASTERLY COYLE

Family: Frank, husband; Max & Jack, childrenOccupation: Principal, LauraCoyle InteriorsChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 13 years• Presbyterian WomenModerator (2009-2010);Circle & Bible Leader; RetreatCommittee Member; Helping

Hands Coordinator; Moderator Search Committee Chair;Fall Gathering; Senior Banquet & Christmas ProgramCoordinator

• Youth Sunday School Class Coordinator (2008-2012);10:24 Leader (2008-2011); Great Escape Leader (2008-2010); Prayer Partner (2005-present)

• Connect Bible Study Leader (2010-2011)• Co-Chair, Church Pictorial Directory (2010-11)• Member, Logos Sunday School Class

CAROLYN MCDONALD

Family: Thomas, husband;Meredith & Mark, childrenOccupation: EditorialAssistant, VanderbiltMedical SchoolChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for

35 years• Sunday School Teacher• Co-Leader of Parish 7 • Co-Chair of Presbyterian

Women Committee for Life

Quiz Answer: That phrase appears in the bulletins of 1931, duringthe pastorate of James I. Vance. The practice seems to have ceasedduring the service of Walter Courtenay and returned during thepastorate of Cortez Cooper.

CRAIG BUFFKIN

Family: Heather, wife; Caroline, Charlie & Francie,childrenOccupation: ManagingPartner, The Buffkin GroupChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 10 years• Jamaica Mission Trip Leader• Prayer Partner• Deacon for 2 terms• Missions Committee

• PIP Class & Tweens to Teens Class Teacher• Stewardship Committee Chair (twice)

STEVE BUTLER

Family: Terry, wife; Taylor, Paige, Channing &Beau, childrenOccupation: BusinessDevelopment Manager;Suzo-Happ GroupChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 15 years• Deacon at FPC (2002-2008)• Adult Missions Committee

• Chair of Adult Missions Committee (2006-2008)• Ushering Committee (2008)• Member of Pastor Nominating Committees

[ Elders Class of 2016 \

KATHRYN BEHM CELAURO

Family: Lenny (deceased),husband; Kate, daughterOccupation: Lawyer;Deputy, Tennessee AttorneyGeneralChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 40 years• Stephen Minister• Founder, Neighborhood

Prayer Group (1999)• Sunday School Teacher (Preschool and Toddlers)• Former Chairman of Board of Preston Taylor Ministries• IJM Mission Trip to India• Mission Trips with First Community and FPC Youth

to Arkansas and West Virginia

JAMES PETERSON COBB

Family: Eleanor, wife;Will, sonOccupation: Sr. HealthcareUnderwriter, CignaHealthcareChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for

10 years• Head Usher (2011-2012)• Chairman of Diaconate• Member of Coordinating

Council (2013)• Diaconate Vice Chairman (2012)• Member of Officer Nominating Committee (2012)• Vice Chairman of Property Committee (2010-2013)• Member of Youth Committee (2010-2013)• Deacon (2008-2013)• Member of the Risk Assessment Committee (2012)• Sunday School Teacher (1st & 2nd grades) (2009-2010)

BEN LOVELL CUNDIFF

Family: Janine, wife; John & Jenny, childrenOccupation: FarmerChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 10 years• Elder• Martha O’Bryan Executive

Committee and Board

JOHN DALLAS FERGUSON

Family: Carole, wife; Amy, Julie & Ashley, childrenOccupation: Chairman,Corrections Corporationof AmericaChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 6 years• Elder (2011-2013)• Finance Committee• Governing bodies

HAL EDWARD SAUER

Family: Linda, wife; Monica& Matthew, childrenOccupation: Retired;Former Accountant & AirForce Officer and TeacherChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for

10 years• Board Chair, Matthew 25• Chair, Older Adult Committee• Member, Disaster

Response Committee• Member, Finance Committee• Co-Coordinator Room In The Inn• Co-Captain Habitat Build• Officer Representative to Confirmation Class• Participated in gleaning activity for Vacation Bible School

[ Elders Class of 2016 \ROBERT PAUL LAGRONE

Family: Mary, wife; Elise &Andie, childrenOccupation: Physician atTennessee RheumatologyChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 20 years• Stephen Minister• Adult Missions Committee• Missions Council• Sunday School Teacher• Deacon (2007-2012)

• New Church Development Comittee• Pastor Nominating Committee• Chair of the National & World Mission Committee• Member of Discernment Team in Williamson County• Mission Team Member to East Africa & Haiti • Medical Mission Team Member to Guatemala

LONNIE J. STOUT, IIFamily: Jean, wife;Rachel Kennedy, Kate Gibson& Elizabeth, childrenOccupation: President andChief Executive Officer, J. Alexander’s, LLCChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 32 years• Chairman, Resources

Council (2013)• Chairman, Pastor Nominating Committee (2001/2002)• Chairman, Adult Education Committee (2003-2004)• Chairman, Christian Education Council (2003-2004)• Elder and Member of the Session (2003-2008, 2013)• Associate Clerk of Session (2004)• Clerk of the Session (2005 and 2006)• Teacher, The Good News Sunday School Class (18 years)

TOM SWAIN

Family: Lisa, wife; Brad & Baker, childrenOccupation: Principal &Consulting Actuary; Bryan, Pendleton, Swats &McAllister, LLCChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 16 years• Deacon at FPC (1999-2001)• Youth Education Committee• Local Missions Committee

• Youth Sunday School Teacher• Co-Facilitator of Monday Bible Study for Dads of Youth• Parent leader for numerous youth mission and ski trips• Room In The Inn & Habitat Volunteer

JOSEPH J. WIMBERLY

Family: Tori, wife; Kendell,Sloane & Lilly, childrenOccupation: President of ICThomasson, ConsultingEngineersChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 20 years• Mission Team Member• Mission Committee Member• Logos Sunday School Class• Habitat Volunteer

• Oak Hill School Board Member• Youth Trip Chaperone

THOMAS SCHLATER STUMB

Family: Kathy, wife; Tee, Grace, Mary Denton,Katy & Jake; childrenOccupation: CEO TruxtonTrust CompanyChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 12 years• Habitat Volunteer• Deacon (2005-2011)• Ushering Committee

[ Deacons Class of 2016 \SCOTT THOMAS ANDERSON

Family: Laura, wife; Sarah, Victoria, Wesley &Tyler, childrenOccupation: Director ofDevelopment for a Nashville-based Real Estate Developerand ContractorChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 5 years

DANA MAYFIELD ATKINS

Family: John, husband; Katie, Clint & Callie, childrenOccupation: HomemakerChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 16 years• Stephen Minister• Bereavement Committee• Centering Prayer Group• Logos Class Member• Co-leader Spiritual Journeys

Sunday School Class

MILAM A. BRANTLEY, JR.Family: Barbara, wife; Claire,David & Matthew, childrenOccupation: Clinician,Scientist (Retina Specialist) atVanderbiltChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 2 years• Simply Serving & NaCoMe• Logos Sunday School• Wednesday Nights

CHARLES J. BRYAN, JR.Family: Karen, wife; Caroline & Anna, childrenOccupation: Director ofBusiness Analytics atnaviHealth, Inc.Church Involvement:• Lifelong member of FPC• Friends in Faith SS Class• Habitat Volunteer• Room In The Inn Volunteer

• Youth Education Committee • Vice Chair of Ushering Committee

WILSON OLAN BRIM, SR.Family: Kathy, wife;Will & Harris, sonsOccupation:Vice President,Southern Trophy House, Inc.and Southern SpecialtiesChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 16 years• CLC• Prayer Partner• Habit Volunteer• Thursday Morning Men’s

Bible Study• Room In The Inn Volunteer• Children’s Sunday School Teacher • Confirmation Class Small Group Leader

CHRISTOPHER WALKER CAIN

Family: Heather, wife; Bennett & Anne, childrenOccupation: Endodontist,Endodontic Associates, PAChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC

for 18 years• Sunday School Teacher• Logos Sunday School Class• Nation’s Ministry Volunteer • Habitat Volunteer

• Interfaith Dental Clinic Volunteer• FPC Youth Basketball Coach• Member of FPC Dad’s Club

GARY LEE COLLIER

Family: Ann, wife; George, Charlie & Maggie,childrenOccupation: Private WealthAdvisorChurch Involvement:• Member of FPC for 16 years• Missions Committee• Deacon for two terms

Non Profit OrgU S Postage

P A I DNashville, TNPermit No. 27

Dated church materialPlease deliver by September 14, 2013

4815 Franklin Pike ■ Nashville, TN 37220

First Presbyterian Church4815 Franklin PikeNashville, Tennessee 37220www.fpcnashville.orgfacebook.com/fpcnashville

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 & Missions

Program StaffNicholas Bergin Organist

Raphael BundageDirector of Music

Karen FittsNursery Coordinator

Brenda GeiseOlder Adult MinistryCoordinator

Letitia GreenDirector of Recreation

Patricia HeimMissions Coordinator

Susan KirbyWorship Coordinator

Carol McClureDirector of Children & Youth Choirs

Deb O’BrienDirector of Children’s Ministry

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

Kim RogersFood Service

Youth Happenings

Sunday School: September 15 & 22Grades 7-12 will meet in The Gathering

Place at 9:40 A.M. and then split into SundaySchool classes!

Save the Date: September 17 —8th/9th Grade Parent Social. More detailsto come!

Save the Date: September 24 —10th/11th Grade Parent Social. More detailsto come!

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

Youth Newsletter: If your family isn’treceiving the monthly newletter, contact

Millie Greiner (mgreiner@fpcnashville.org or298-9570).

sunday evening worship at fpcThe Gathering Place @ 5:3O p.m.

Reception for Catherine FosterSeptember 29

9:30 – 10:45 A.M.in Courtenay Hall.

Come visit with Catherineand meet her family

at a reception hosted byPresbyterian Women.

R er